Orlando
Orlando is a lively city in central Florida, known for its entertainment and theme parks. With around 320,000 residents, it’s one of the largest cities in the state. The weather is pretty warm year-round, with an average annual temperature of about 73°F (23°C). Each year, the city attracts millions of tourists, making it a major hotspot for visitors.
The best time to visit Orlando is during the cooler months from November to April, when the weather is more comfortable for exploring the city. This is when you can fully enjoy the outdoor attractions and events without the intense summer heat.
Orlando is famous for its massive theme parks and attractions, making it a prime destination for families and thrill-seekers alike. Whether you’re into adrenaline-pumping rides or just want to explore the local culture, Orlando has something to offer.
Aerial View of Orlando
Robinson St. Orlando
Arriving to Orlando
Orlando is a super fun city in central Florida, famous for its epic theme parks and sunny weather. Getting to Orlando is a breeze with its major airport, Orlando International Airport, which is well-connected to cities across the globe. Once you land, you’ll find that getting around is pretty easy thanks to the city’s good mix of public transport, taxis, and rideshare options like Uber and Lyft.
When it comes to where to stay, a few neighborhoods stand out. If you’re all about being close to the action, check out International Drive (I-Drive). It’s packed with hotels, restaurants, and attractions, and it’s just a short drive to places like Universal Studios and SeaWorld. For a more local feel, you might enjoy staying in the downtown area, which offers a mix of boutique hotels and easy access to cool eateries and shops.
Orlando’s public transport system includes buses that cover most of the city, but renting a car is often the easiest way to get around, especially if you’re planning to visit multiple attractions. The roads are well-maintained, and parking is usually available at major destinations.
Food-wise, Orlando is a melting pot of flavors. You’ll find everything from classic American burgers and fries to international eats like Cuban sandwiches and sushi. The food scene is pretty diverse, so you won’t have to look far for something delicious. For a real taste of Orlando, check out local spots like The Ravenous Pig for gastropub fare or Yellow Dog Eats for some great BBQ.
What to see and do? Orlando is all about fun and excitement. Besides the famous theme parks, you can explore the city’s nature side with places like Lake Eola Park, where you can paddleboat on the lake or just chill in the green spaces. If you’re into shopping, The Mall at Millenia and Disney Springs are great spots for a retail therapy session.
For experiences, don’t miss out on taking a day trip to the nearby beaches or visiting the Kennedy Space Center. Whether you’re in the mood for thrill rides, family fun, or just soaking up the sun, Orlando has it all.
Accomodation
Looking for a unique hotel experience?
Local Secrets has selected a variety of unique hotels that make lodging a special experience. These hotels share the vision of quality and service that we want for our travelers.
Want to feel like home?
Local Secrets has developed a network of professional experts in tourist accommodations committed to quality and service to guarantee a unique experience to our travelers.
Members of Hospitality Privilege Program
Members of Hospitality Privilege Program
Currency: The official currency of Orlando is Dolar, 1 US$ is equivalent to 0.90 EUR €
Keep in mind before travelling to Orlando
Orlando is a super fun city in Florida known for its epic attractions and lively festivals. Throughout the year, the city hosts some seriously cool events. First up is the Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival in May, where you can catch a mix of quirky and creative performances. Then there’s Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios in September and October, perfect if you love a good scare. Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival takes place in the fall, offering a culinary tour around the world. Another must-see is the Orlando Jazz Festival in October, featuring some great live music. Don’t miss the Florida Film Festival in April, showcasing indie films and local talent. Christmas in the Park during the holiday season brings festive cheer with lights and live performances. Lastly, The Great Orlando Beer Festival in October is a beer lover’s dream, featuring tons of local brews.
For day trips, you’ve got a bunch of awesome options. Tampa is just over an hour away with its museums and Busch Gardens. Cape Canaveral is a cool spot to check out NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. St. Augustine, the oldest city in the U.S., is rich in history and charm. Clearwater Beach offers beautiful sandy shores and clear waters. Winter Park is a charming town with great dining and shopping. And if you’re up for a bit of nature, The Everglades are a bit farther but totally worth the visit for wildlife spotting and airboat rides.
Tips to visit Orlando
Orlando, known as “The City Beautiful,” is a fun spot in Central Florida. People from Orlando are called Orlandoans. When you meet someone, a casual “Hey” or “Hi” works great. English is the main language here, but you’ll also hear Spanish and Portuguese due to the diverse population.
Most folks grab breakfast around 7-9 AM, lunch from 11 AM-1 PM, and dinner usually from 6-8 PM. Businesses typically open from 9 AM to 5 PM, but restaurants and attractions stay open later. Tipping is expected in restaurants, usually around 15-20%.
Orlando’s healthcare is covered by a mix of local and national systems. For dress code, it’s pretty relaxed—think casual and comfortable. You’ll often hear locals say “That’s awesome!” or “No worries!” when things go smoothly.
