Orlando
Overview
Orlando is the theme-park capital of the world, so expect to be wowed by the sheer size of Walt Disney World. You'll find plenty more rides and fun for all at movie-themed Universal Orlando Resort and aquatic SeaWorld. Be prepared for an overwhelming amount of things to do and see - you'll never cover it all in one holiday so make a return visit for space travel and water slides.
Background
Orlando is spread over a wide area of Central Florida. Get your bearings along the main tourist strip, International Drive, which links Walt Disney World in the south with Universal Orlando Resort in the north. You'll find crowd-pulling attractions, discount shopping malls and trendy restaurants spread along its entire length. Distinct urban communities are scattered around the area; discover arty Winter Park, north of Downtown Orlando, or explore the manicured streets of the kitsch little Celebration resort, built by Disney in the 1950s. For a laid-back vibe and cosy beachside restaurants, head east out of town to funky coastal Cocoa Beach.
First-time visit
Allow at least a day per park in Orlando. The kids will have you up pre-dawn to meet Mickey and his pals at magical Walt Disney World. Take waterproofs with you to SeaWorld as if you're anywhere near the front when Shamu the killer whale thrashes past, you'll need them. Combine wild white-knuckle rides and movie simulations at Universal Orlando Resort or take a break from theme parks and head to Orlando's many discount designer malls.
Return visit
If you've always fancied yourself as a budding astronaut, visit Kennedy Space Center to see a shuttle launch itself into space. The gentle funfair rides at Cypress Garden are a firm favourite with youngsters. Hire a bike to tour the 200 miles of cycle lanes around Orlando or get absolutely soaked racing down water chutes at Wet ‘n Wild. For after-dark entertainment book a themed dinner show or eat out in sophisticated Winter Park's elegant restaurants.
airports
Orlando International Airport
Essentials
Florida's busiest airport is the holiday hub for millions of families, with almost 35 million passengers passing through the airport's terminal every year. Orlando International Airport is nine miles south-east of downtown Orlando, 45 minutes by bus.
Airport Facts
- Airport code
- MCO
- Airport website
- Orlando Airports website
- Airport tel
- +1 407 825 2001
- No. of terminals
- One (and four satellites). Find out whether you need to check in on the A-side or B-side of the terminal.
- Distance from city centre
- Nine miles (14.5km) south-east of Orlando.
- Transport between the terminal and satellites
- Shuttle trains (with great airport views) whisk passengers from the main terminal to the satellite gates in 68 seconds. Moving walkways run across the main terminal.
- Airport parking
- Garage parking from 60 minutes to 60 days (the first 40 minutes are free) is located in Garages A and B on either side of the main terminal, and on top of the terminal. Cheaper satellite parking for up to 120 days is available in three parking lots, linked to the main terminal by free shuttle. For valet parking head to the Hyatt Regency Hotel.
- Time zone
- GMT -5 (GMT -4 in summer).
- Useful tips
- It's advised to arrive at the airport three hours before international departures and two hours before domestic flights. International passengers need to collect their baggage twice: once in customs and again in the main terminal.
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