Greater Orlando Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide for Greater Orlando including attractions, activities, transportation options, and more for a memorable vacation.


Introduction to Greater Orlando

Greater Orlando, located in Inland Florida, United States of America, is a popular tourist destination for its amusement parks, outdoor recreations, cultural attractions, and culinary wonders. The region is a cluster of small cities and towns, each with its own charm and character, making it a perfect destination for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Greater Orlando

  • Walt Disney World Resort
  • Universal Orlando Resort
  • Sea World Orlando
  • Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
  • Gatorland
  • Discovery Cove
  • Holy Land Experience
  • Harry P. Leu Gardens
  • Orlando Science Center
  • Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art
  • The Mall at Millenia
  • Lake Eola Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Greater Orlando has a rich cultural and historical heritage that is well-preserved through its museums and historical landmarks. Some of the must-visit attractions in this category include:

  • Orange County Regional History Center
  • Mennello Museum of American Art
  • Polasek Museum and Sculpture Garden
  • Winter Park Historical Museum
  • Zora Neale Hurston National Museum of Fine Arts

Natural Attractions of Greater Orlando: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The natural beauty of Greater Orlando is worth exploring, and there are plenty of activities and sights to see that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy biking, hiking, boating, bird-watching, and more. Some of the natural attractions include:

  • Wekiwa Springs State Park
  • Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive
  • Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve
  • The Black Hammock Adventure
  • The Canaveral National Seashore
  • Blue Spring State Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Greater Orlando

Greater Orlando has an extensive network of trails that wind through parks, forests, and waterways. Some of the top hiking and biking routes include:

  • West Orange Trail
  • Little Econ Greenway
  • Cross Seminole Trail
  • Orlando Urban Trail

Best Things to Do in Greater Orlando: Activities and Tours

Beyond amusement parks and recreational activities, there is a wide range of activities and tours available in Greater Orlando. Some of the best things to do in the region include:

  • Hot-Air Balloon Rides
  • Indoor Skydiving
  • Helicopter Tours
  • Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament
  • Sea Life Aquarium Orlando

Week-Long Itinerary for Greater Orlando

Day 1: Walt Disney World Resort Day 2: Universal Orlando Resort Day 3: Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Day 4: Wekiwa Springs State Park Day 5: Orange County Regional History Center and Winter Park Day 6: Gatorland and Lake Eola Park Day 7: Shopping, Dining, and Entertainment at Universal CityWalk or Disney Springs

Food and Drink Scene of Greater Orlando

Greater Orlando has a diverse culinary scene that caters to every taste and budget. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Key Lime Pie
  • Southern Fried Chicken
  • BBQ Ribs
  • Cuban Sandwiches
  • Alligator Meat

Local Beverages

  • Orange Juice
  • Key West Sunset Ale
  • Cigar City Jai Alai IPA

Where to Stay in Greater Orlando: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Greater Orlando has a wide range of accommodation options available, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. Here are some options:

Budget

  • Orlando International Hostel
  • Courtyard Orlando Downtown
  • Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando Downtown

Moderate

  • Comfort Suites Orlando North
  • Homewood Suites by Hilton Lake Mary
  • The Alfond Inn

Luxury

  • Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando
  • The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes
  • Waldorf Astoria Orlando

What to Buy in Greater Orlando: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Greater Orlando can find plenty of unique souvenirs and local products to bring back home, such as:

  • Disney-themed merchandise
  • Florida T-shirts and hats
  • Orange Blossom Honey
  • Hand-crafted arts and crafts

Local Culture and Customs of Greater Orlando

The culture of Greater Orlando is a fusion of many different influences, from Southern hospitality to Latin flair. Visitors should be respectful of local customs, such as:

  • Tipping servers and bartenders
  • Dressing appropriately for different occasions
  • Using polite language and manners

Best Time to Visit Greater Orlando

The best time to visit Greater Orlando is during the winter months (December to February) when the weather is mild, and the tourist crowds are thinner. However, this is also the most expensive time to visit. The summer months (June to August) are the busiest and hottest, making it a popular time for families with children off from school.

Do’s and Don’ts of Greater Orlando

Do:

  • Use sunscreen and stay hydrated
  • Book attractions and tours in advance
  • Take advantage of complimentary transportation

Don’t:

  • Leave valuables in your car while parked
  • Forget to factor in transportation time in your itinerary
  • Be disrespectful to the culture or people

Safety and Health

Safety in Greater Orlando

Greater Orlando is generally a safe destination for tourists, but visitors should be mindful of their surroundings, especially in touristy areas where pick-pocketing and theft can occur. It is always best to stay in well-lit and populated areas.

Health in Greater Orlando

Visitors to Greater Orlando do not need any vaccines or special health precautions beyond those recommended for travel throughout the United States. However, it is always advisable to consult with your physician before traveling.

Getting to Greater Orlando: Transportation Options and Logistics

There are several options for getting to Greater Orlando, including:

Airports Near Greater Orlando

  • Orlando International Airport (MCO)
  • Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB)
  • Tampa International Airport (TPA)

Bus Stations Near Greater Orlando

  • Greyhound Bus Lines
  • MegaBus

Other Options

  • Amtrak Train Service
  • Rental Cars

How to Get Around in Greater Orlando

The most convenient way to get around Greater Orlando is by car, either by renting one or using ride-sharing services. Public transportation options are limited but do exist, including LYNX buses and the SunRail commuter train.

Where to Go Next from Greater Orlando: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Beyond Greater Orlando, there are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions worth exploring, including:

  • St. Augustine, Florida’s oldest city
  • The Space Coast, home to Florida’s iconic space program
  • Daytona Beach, famous for its beaches and motorsports heritage

Conclusion

Greater Orlando is a tourist destination that has something for everyone, from amusement parks and outdoor recreation to cultural attractions and cuisine. Plan your trip well in advance to take advantage of all the vibrant region has to offer.

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    Apopka
    Celebration
    Lake Buena Vista
    Lake Mary
    St. Cloud
    Walt Disney World
    Winter Garden
    Winter Park