It’s one of the most fun places on earth.
Orlando is known as being a world-class destination of all-things entertainment. With an abundance of theme parks, restaurants, shopping and attractions, you will definitely not be bored for one moment if you decide to take a trip there.
However, with so much to do, it can also be a bit head-melting – especially if it’s your first time visiting. I’ve been there twice now and while I’m no expert, I do think I’ve learned a thing or two about the easiest options and best solutions for navigating around the place.
Here are my top 7 tips if you’re going on holiday to Orlando, Florida:
1. Before you go; pack for ALL weathers
Think it’s just hot all the time? Well, yes it is… but you will also be in for a whole range of weathers all in one day. Orlando is located in a subtropical climate which means from May to October it could rain at any moment. There could also be thunder and lightning and a lot of wind.
My top tip? Bring a rain jacket… and don’t wear instant tan.
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2. Pick a hotel near to the theme parks
All of the theme parks are located pretty close to each other. Between Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World and Seaworld, they’re all within a 15-20 minute drive away.
If you’re going purely for the theme parks we’d opt to stay close so you have easy access to whichever one you want to go to.
Of course, there are hotels within the theme parks which are always great options. You can buy package deals which will get you the hotel and park tickets. If you want to save a bit of moola, this is the best option as it will also save you on transport costs as well.
3. Buy tickets in advance
If you’re not staying in a theme park hotel and only plan to visit Universal or Disney for one or two days, I’d recommend you buy tickets in advance. If you go online before your holiday, there will be deals on the various websites to buy the park tickets for a discounted price. Plus, it will save you queuing when you get there.
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4. ICON Park
Want a bit of everything? ICON Park is the place to go. It’s the most perfect spot no matter what you want to do.
Fancy heading for a few pints? There’s an abundance of bars. Fancy some good grub and people watching? All the restaurants have outdoor areas where you can watch the world go by.
The best thing, I found, about ICON Park was the Ferris wheel – especially at night time. It will give you a gorgeous view over Orlando and lasts for ages too so you can take it all in.
5. Shopping
If you have a bit of money to spare then definitely check out one of the shopping malls. There are four different options to choose from which are The Florida Mall, the Mall at Millenia, and two different Premium Outlets.
I went to the Vineland Premium Outlet because of the discounts – and I don’t mean the discounts in store, I’m talking about the discount books. When you get there all you have to do is go to the food mall and straight up to the customer services desk. Ask for a discount book… and that’s it. You’re not told about these books so make sure not to miss out.
When you’re shopping it’s basically just discounts on discounts!
6. Food
All the food. If you want a night of dining then there are so many options. The most expensive place is definitely Disney Springs, but if you’re staying in Disney or close by it’s a nice option if you’re feeling *~fancy~*.
Beside Universal is CityWalk and this can cater to almost anyone. There are so many restaurants to choose from – as well as bars – so whether you fancy something indulgent or just want a burger from Burger King, this is the place to go.
You need to also look out for Restaurant Row. If you don’t want to be in among the hustle and bustle of people entering and exiting a theme park, Restaurant Row is your go-to. The mile-long stretch on International Drive offers so much food you will be spoiled for choice.
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7. Have fun
As cliche as it sounds, just have fun. It can be easy to be overwhelmed when you get over there because there is just so much to do but if something doesn’t work out or you can’t get tickets, there are so many options for you to do something else.
You will probably want to fit absolutely everything in, but remember to relax, have fun and enjoy yourself because it’s definitely a ‘once in a lifetime’ place to be.
