Orlando in One Day: Unmissable Sights, Bites, and Adventures

Published: May 14, 2026
two women enjoying a waterslide in orlando

Got 24 hours in Orlando and want to squeeze every drop of fun from your day? We’ve cooked up the perfect one-day itinerary for travelers who crave both thrills and a taste of Florida’s unique flavors. From legendary space launches to up-close gator encounters and hands-on challenges for curious minds, Orlando is so much more than just its famous theme parks. In a city bursting with family-friendly attractions, this guide mixes unforgettable experiences with local eats and a few hidden gems along the way. 

Ready to dive in? Here’s what we’ll cover for your Orlando adventure, including: 

Kennedy Space Center 

Gatorland 

WonderWorks 

SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium 

Madame Tussauds Orlando 

The Orlando Eye 

Island H2O Water Park 

Museum of Illusions 

Outta Control Magic Dinner Show 

Quirky lunch, dinner and snack stops 

Launch Your Day: Kennedy Space Center 

Set your alarms—space waits for no one! We recommend kicking off your Orlando adventure at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. It’s about 45 minutes from downtown Orlando, so grab a coffee and breakfast on the go. If you’re staying in the city, the 436L Lynx bus travelling to Titusville lets you connect with a local shuttle or rideshare for the last leg over the causeway. The route is scenic—palms, marshes, and all that Florida sunshine. 

Why start with Kennedy? To stand beneath an actual Saturn V rocket or touch a moon rock is something you won’t forget. The center buzzes with curiosity, awe, and some epic backdrops for your day’s first set of photos. Get up close to the Space Shuttle Atlantis, try a simulated shuttle launch, and pop into the Astronaut Encounter to hear real, wild stories from space explorers themselves. 

Tip: We love the Rocket Garden first thing (smaller crowds, and the morning light is unbeatable for photos), and the “Heroes & Legends” exhibit gives you the kind of goosebumps reserved for humankind’s greatest achievements. 

After 2-3 hours here, it’s time to blast off back towards central Orlando for a true taste of Florida wild. 

Mid-Morning Magic: Gatorland

Hop in a rideshare or local shuttle westward, and you’re set for another Florida must: Gatorland! Known as the “Alligator Capital of the World,” this place is pure fun, with classic old-Florida charm you’ll find nowhere else. Expect friendly staff, an easy-going atmosphere, and more gators than you ever thought possible. Wander the boardwalks, catch a live Gator Jumparoo show (yes, really), and don’t miss the chance to zipline right over the gator breeding marsh if you’re after an adrenaline rush. 

Besides gators—and there are thousands—you’ll also meet giant tortoises, cheeky parrots and, sometimes, trainers feeding gators by hand (don’t try this at home). Kids love the splash park and rare white alligators, while thrill-seekers can try the “Stompin’ Gator Off-Road Adventure.” 

Give yourself 2 hours here—just enough to sample everything without rushing and to grab that epic selfie with a baby gator. 

Lunchtime: Classic Florida Flavors 

After all that adventure, you’ll be hungry. If you want real-deal Southern comfort, you can’t do better than Yellow Dog Eats (about 10 minutes west of Gatorland via Uber or taxi). What to order? Go for their pulled pork sandwiches, piled high with tangy slaw or the “Holy Crap” sandwich, which delivers a smoked turkey, bacon, brie and raspberry melba sauce combo that’s hilariously tasty. The vibe inside? Funky, artsy, casual and covered in dog decor—it’s dog-friendly if you have furry family in tow. 

Craving a quick bite closer to International Drive? Try Mrs. Potato Restaurant for hearty, homemade Brazilian potato dishes or a made-to-order empanada. Locals rave about the crispy stuffed potatoes and friendly, quirky decor. 

Afternoon: WonderWorks and SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium 

Once you’ve fueled up, it’s time to hit International Drive—the pulsing heart of Orlando leisure and dining. 

Stop 1: WonderWorks 

You can’t miss WonderWorks—literally, the upside-down building lets you know you’re in for something different. Jump off the I-Ride Trolley or Lynx bus (International Drive and Austrian Court stop), and head inside for hours of interactive fun. This “edu-tainment” wonderland blends mind-boggling science with hands-on experiments, laser tag and a ropes course overhead. Kids and adults get to compete, challenge themselves and sometimes just stand back and say, “Whoa.” 

If you fancy a power-nap, try the Hurricane Shack experience or the virtual roller coasters. You’ll leave feeling like you worked out both brain and body! 

Stop 2: SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium

Just a short I-Ride Trolley ride (or a 15-minute walk down International Drive), you’ll find SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium. Pause for a breather as you wander through shimmering tunnels with sharks gliding overhead and colorful sea turtles drifting by. There are loads of touch pools for little hands, themed talks, and ocean displays from Florida to the Indian Ocean. It’s peaceful, interactive, and the jellyfish room glows with mesmerizing energy. 

Got a soft spot for sea creatures? The octopus display always fascinates, and we never leave without lingering around the rescue turtle habitat. 

If time and crew allow, Madame Tussauds Orlando is just next door—go face-to-face with waxy legends in a playful, selfie-friendly environment. 

Afternoon Pick-Me-Up 

By now, a little sugar boost is probably required. Good news: The Sugar Factory at ICON Park is only a five-minute stroll from the aquarium. The backdrop is dazzling (think candy-themed chandeliers and rainbow décor), but the Milkshake Bar steals the show. Try a Cookie Monster milkshake or order the “Insane” Milkshake—topped with a stack of decadent treats. If you’re after something lighter, the sorbet is just as fun. 

Now you’re ready for eye-popping views... 

Late Afternoon: Sky-High Views on The Orlando Eye 

Time to rise above it all at The Orlando Eye. This 400-foot-tall observation wheel offers the kind of panoramic city views that sum up every epic Orlando adventure. Step into your capsule and you’ll drift up, taking in theme parks, lakes and, on clear days, even the distant launches of Cape Canaveral. 

The ride is peaceful, air-conditioned and rotates slowly enough for perfect Instagram snaps—this is the Orlando cityscape in all its glory, with the orange glow of sunset if you time it right. 

Tip: Try scheduling your ride for late afternoon or early evening when the city lights start to flicker on. 

Evening Entertainment: The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show 

Cap your Orlando adventure with laughter and genuinely jaw-dropping illusions at The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show, right next door to WonderWorks. The show’s star, Tony Brent, gets everyone laughing with a mix of magic, comedy, and audience participation that suits every age group. The setting is cozy, energetic, and feels a bit like a neighborhood block party where the headliner just happens to be brilliant with a deck of cards. 

Dinner is buffet-style, so pile your plate high with pizza, salad, popcorn and ice cream—all included with your ticket. Soda, beer, and wine flow freely. Kids will be on the edge of their seats while adults end up laughing just as much. 

Optional Detours and Nightlife 

Still have energy left or want to explore further? ICON Park remains lively well into the evening, with plenty of shops and open-air patios for a nightcap. Try Tin Roof for live music (sometimes country, sometimes danceable pop and rock) and a playful Southern menu—think spicy fried green tomatoes and robust craft cocktails. 

If you’re a fan of wild sunsets and waterslides, Island H2O Water Park, just 20 minutes west of I-Drive by rideshare, keeps the fun going until dusk. With high-speed slides, a lazy river and a tech-savvy wristband that lets you control music and snap digital souvenirs, it offers a splashy finale to your day—especially welcome on those toasty Florida evenings. 

Getting Around Orlando 

Here’s the trick for making the most of a one-day Orlando whirlwind: plan for a mix of public transport, the I-Ride Trolley, and a few quick rideshare hops (Uber and Lyft are everywhere). International Drive—Orlando’s entertainment corridor—is well-served by trolleys and Lynx buses, connecting you to most attractions, shows, and epic food stops. For trips further afield (such as Kennedy Space Center or Gatorland), shuttles and car rentals streamline the morning and afternoon transitions. Many hotels also run free or low-cost shuttles to key attractions, so ask at reception before you start out. 

For bus schedules and real-time tracking, Lynx’s app works well. The I-Ride Trolley (with bright red cars) loops along International Drive every 20 minutes, making it easy to hop between attractions and eateries. 

 

One day in Orlando packs in a world of adventure—rocket science, giant gators, underwater worlds, dizzying skyline rides, and magic tricks around every corner. Whether you’re building a family memory or sharing sun-soaked adventures with friends, Orlando blends energy, imagination, and a big dash of Florida fun in every moment. 

So grab your sunscreen, take your pick from these unforgettable spots, and let your Orlando story begin—one spectacular sun-drenched day at a time. 

 

Like this? Check out our secret guide to Orlando’s hidden gems, or browse the city’s market scene.    

Step up your sightseeing with Go City® 

We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets. 

See more, do more, and experience more with Go City®– just choose a pass to get started! 

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Orlando in February

There are hundreds of things to do in Orlando during the wintertime. The city doesn’t typically slow down throughout this time of the year – far from it, actually. Compared to northern states, Orlando’s wintertime is pretty mild, thanks to its subtropical climate. Because of this, February is a great time to visit – the weather is more bearable, there are fewer crowds, and great deals to take full advantage of. Whether you’re looking to check out the theme parks, visit the museums, or take some time off at the farmers’ market, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. So, if you’re planning to make the visit, have a read through our list of some of the best things to do in Orlando during the month of February. No matter what you choose to do here, we’re sure you’ll have a blast! SEE THE SITES Orlando’s temperate weather in the wintertime makes it perfect for visiting some of the area’s most famous theme parks. Whether you’re a pop culture fanatic or travelling with family, there’s no better place to be than the Universal Resort. Drawing in millions of visitors each year, this place is recognized as one of the most popular theme parks in the world – and it’s easy to see why. The park is split into ten different zones, each with their own unique theme. With over 30 rides and attractions on-site, there’s a lot to choose from here – but that’s all part of the fun! We love this spot because it’s impossible to leave without a big smile on your face. If you’re looking for something a little different, look no further than the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Breaking away from the typical museum encounter, the institute works not only to educate its visitors about space travel but bring the experience to life. Through awe-inspiring attractions, exhibits, and activities, learn more about some of man’s finest achievements. At the institute, you can view historic spacecraft and memorabilia, learn more about those who have dedicated their lives to space travel in the Astronauts Hall of Fame, and touch a real moon rock. But if you thought that was all, you were wrong! A favorite for most visitors, the Shuttle Launch Experience provides a fantastic simulation of a real rocket blast off. No doubt one of the more unique stops on our list, this place is a total must-see. LEARN SOMETHING NEW Another one of our favorite things to do for the month of February is visit the Wells’ Built Museum of African American History. A perfect activity for those cooler days, the institution seeks to present, preserve and interpret artefacts from African American culture and that of the diaspora in a wonderful historical space. Built in the first half of the twentieth century, the museum once served as a hotel for African Americans who were barred from Florida’s segregated hotels. Upon entrance, visitors can view an impressive collection of memorabilia pertaining to Orlando’s black history and Civil Rights Movement. For those with a great thirst for knowledge and deep appreciation for culture, this one should rank at the very top of the itinerary! If you’re looking for art and culture in Orlando, don’t worry – we've got you covered! Though the city is perhaps best known for its famous theme parks, its wonderful galleries may just surprise you. Established by a group of art enthusiasts in 1924, the Orlando Museum of Art plays a major role in the city’s creative scene. In its eclectic repository, the institution houses over 2, 400 works covering Contemporary Art, African Art, and that of the Ancient Americas. Walking through the institute, you’ll be able to spot works that are incredibly rare and thousands of years of age. As fascinating as it is fun, this place is well worth the visit. FIND COOL OUTDOORS ACTIVITIES If you’re looking to take some quiet time in nature, Orlando has some spectacular green spaces to choose from. Wild and romantic, the charming Kraft Azalea Garden makes a fantastic contrast to the vast urban landscapes found elsewhere in the city. Open all year round to the public, this wonderful secluded space is perfect for taking a little time to yourself. Strolling through the park, you’ll notice cypress and banyan trees, and obviously, azaleas. Sat on the shore of Lake Maitland, the park has a small dock that offers fishing and boating activities. You should also be able to spot beautiful birdlife around the area, including egrets, herons, owls, and woodpeckers. Incredibly peaceful and picturesque, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a lazy afternoon in the city. During February, the weather is cooler and less humid than usual, but not typically cold, making it a great time for outdoor activity in Orlando. A total favorite for locals and visitors alike, the Winter Park Farmers’ Market is the best way to start the weekend in the city. Taking place every Saturday morning, this place is well-recognized for its wide selection of fresh fruit and vegetables. In addition, delectable treats like chicken pot pies, Jamaican patties and kettle corn draw in the crowds to this favorite local mainstay. Still, that’s not all there is to see here. Browsing the stalls, you’ll find everything from raw honey and artisan cheese to original crafts and souvenirs. Vibrant and bustling with life, we recommend this place for all the foodies out there! Choosing to visit Orlando in February is a great idea. Why? Because you’ll be able to hit all the famous sites and attractions without the uncomfortable heat and humidity. There are countless ways to explore Orlando in the winter, for all different types of travellers. If you’re a thrillseeker, the Universal Resort is right at your fingertips. For those who are interested in learning more about the history of the area, the city’s cultural institutions are a must. If you just want to relax, the area presents many beautiful parks to be discovered. No matter where your interests may lie, you’re sure to find something to suit you. To find out how to save money on your trip, check out our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass. For more details, make sure to connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
friends enjoying a drink at a rooftop bar
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Orlando Fridays: Adventures, Eats, and Unmissable Experiences

Friday in Orlando: the city hums with energy, and the options for out-of-this-world experiences seem endless. Whether you want to chase thrills, soak up local culture, or sample lip-smacking dishes, there’s no better way to kick off your weekend. We’re here to help you piece together a Friday itinerary that moves at your own pace—from sunrise rocket science to sunset cocktails, splashy waterparks to late-night bites. Spoiler: in Orlando, turning your Friday into a highlight reel is easier than you think.  Our pick of things to do in Orlando on a Friday:  Kennedy Space Center  The Orlando Eye  WonderWorks  SEA LIFE Aquarium  Gatorland  Museum of Illusions Orlando  Fun Spot America  ICON Park Eats & Sweets  Lake Eola Park  Downtown Orlando After Dark  The Orlando Eye: Take in the City—From Above  Once you’ve had your dose of rocket science, it’s time for some sky-high views right in the heart of Orlando. Hop over to ICON Park and board The Orlando Eye—an enormous wheel that elevates your Friday (and your Instagram game) to new heights. Each climate-controlled capsule glides peacefully, treating you to 360-degree panoramas of Central Florida.  You’ll spot shimmering lakes, city skyscrapers, and, if the sky’s clear, the distant launch pads over Cape Canaveral. There’s something calming about floating above all the action, watching planes descend and theme parks whir below. It’s a classic Orlando experience, whether you’re with friends, kids, or enjoying a solo moment of zen.  Friday afternoons can be lively around ICON Park, so consider timing your ride for sunset when the sky’s aflame and the city twinkles to life. The Eye also offers special experiences—think date night with Prosecco or family packages with playful photo ops. Step out and you’re surrounded by inviting eateries, souvenir shops, and more attractions (like SEA LIFE Aquarium or Madame Tussauds) right on your doorstep.  If you want a perfect Orlando snapshot, both for your memory bank and your camera roll, soaring on the Orlando Eye is hard to beat.  WonderWorks: Science, Imagination, and Play—Upside Down  Round out your Friday morning or swing by in the afternoon for an indoor adventure at WonderWorks, the science-focused funhouse that you can’t miss—literally, the building’s on International Drive, and it’s upside down.  Step inside, and the playful chaos amps up: themed zones spark everyone’s curiosity, from an earthquake cafe to a hurricane shack. You’ll get hands-on with glow-in-the-dark ropes courses, virtual sports, and mind-bending puzzles. It’s as much about learning as it is about laughing—try lying on a bed of nails or piloting a virtual F-14 jet (don’t worry, crash landings here just mean more giggles).  The vibe is energetic—kids let loose, grown-ups rediscover their sense of wonder, and everyone gets in on the action. Friday afternoons here brim with excitement, making it a great pick for groups and families. The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show is also a local favorite for those who love a bit of slapstick and sleight-of-hand with their meal—think pizza, popcorn, and endless soft drinks with a helping of “how did they do that?”  What makes WonderWorks so appealing is its range: you can run wild, learn a little, or just sit back and watch as everyone around you joins the fun. For a weather-proof, energy-packed Friday stop, this is the ticket.  SEA LIFE Aquarium: Underwater Wonder for All  Stay under the ICON Park umbrella and head next to SEA LIFE Aquarium—Orlando’s coolest underwater escape. Here, the lighting is soft, the tanks glow blue, and everywhere you look, there’s a slice of ocean magic.  Wind your way through themed zones, marveling at graceful rays, towering sharks, seahorses, and vibrant coral gardens. The 360-degree ocean tunnel is the showstopper, as sharks and turtles glide by overhead and all around, making you feel like a deep-sea explorer (without ever getting wet).  The atmosphere here is calm but lively—plenty of space for kids to press their noses to the glass or for adults to snap that serene photo of a jellyfish drifting by. Along the way, staff give interactive talks and feeding demos, so you can ask about everything from octopus antics to conservation work.  Planning-wise, Friday midday is a sweet spot: the venue isn’t jammed, the tanks sparkle in the daylight, and you can take your time finding your favorite fish. SEA LIFE is both a cooling break from the Florida sun and a gentle reminder of the diversity that swims just offshore, making it a top pick for animal lovers and anyone ready to unwind.  Museum of Illusions Orlando: Trick Your Eyes, Test Your Mind  For something playful (and a guaranteed photo fest), wander over to the Museum of Illusions, also within the heart of ICON Park. You’ll walk through a wonderland of visual puzzles, mind-bending rooms, and zany exhibits—all designed to trick your senses.  What makes this spot special? Each room offers an interactive experience: one minute you’re “shrinking” to hobbit size, the next you’re balancing upside down, then tumbling down a seemingly endless vortex tunnel. Every display feels like an invitation to play, pose, and puzzle things out with your fellow travelers.  The museum’s friendly staff are happy to snap your illusion selfies or guide you through the science behind the madness—it becomes an oddly social experience, as visitors compare which optical trickery stumped them the most. On Friday afternoons the vibe is lively but not overcrowded, so you can linger and laugh as much as you want.  If your perfect Orlando Friday includes creative thinking, bright colors, and a splash of silliness, the Museum of Illusions turns every visit into story-worthy fun.  Fun Spot America: Pure Play and Thrills  Ready to embrace the spirit of an old-school amusement park? Fun Spot America is your invitation to go all-in with go-karts, roller coasters, midway games, and a cheerful, retro energy. No need for complicated planning—just roll up and play for as long as the mood lasts.  Scream your way around the wooden coaster, compete for the high score on the classic arcade machines, or challenge your crew to the multilevel go-kart track. There’s a mini-fairground vibe with plenty of space, short lines (especially on Fridays before sunset), and rides that range from gentle to wild.  There’s something joyful about the familiar sights—spinning carousels, flashing lights, and cotton candy stands. If you’re traveling with younger kids, the pint-sized rides delight, while thrill-seekers can tackle the sky-high swings or bungee jump. The staff are friendly and there’s a gleeful, local crowd, adding to the park’s welcoming feel.  As the Florida sun dips and the lights switch on, Fun Spot transforms into a sparkly playground. It’s an affordable way to pack your Friday with fun and nostalgia, side by side with locals leaning into the weekend.  ICON Park Eats & Sweets: Fuel Up with Flavor  Exploring all of ICON Park’s attractions works up an appetite, and this complex serves up local hits and sweet treats to refresh you. For a meal that feels fun and welcoming, try Yard House—with 100+ beers on tap and standout dishes like Nashville hot chicken and their giant burgers. If you want something lighter, grab poke bowls or loaded salads at iCafe de Paris (whose outdoor tables invite hours of people-watching).  Got a sweet tooth? You can’t beat Sugar Factory for Insta-worthy milkshakes and wild sundaes, or try Le Macaron’s rainbow-bright pastries for a French twist on dessert. Every eatery boasts its own character: some go for neon glam, others spill tables onto the sidewalk, while little spots like Shake Shack keep things casual with crispy fries and shakes to-go.  The beauty of dining at ICON Park is the atmosphere—always buzzing, never stuffy, and just steps from your next adventure or evening unwind. Share a plate, split a dessert, or sample something new—your Friday food memories start here.  Lake Eola Park: Green Space and Local Vibes  If you want to press pause on the theme park pace, slip into the heart of downtown at Lake Eola Park. This leafy oasis wraps around a glittering lake dotted with paddle swans, fountains, and locals out for dog walks or yoga stretches.  Pack a picnic, snag a seat beneath a live oak, or simply take a stroll on the paved loop for bayside city views. On Friday afternoons, keep an ear out—live music sometimes drifts from the amphitheater, and food trucks pop up with tacos, fresh fruit, and cold drinks. The swan boats make for a quirky adventure, and the resident birdlife is always ready to strike a pose.  Lake Eola offers the refreshing feel of a “real Orlando”—laidback, friendly, and a stone’s throw from indie cafes, breweries, and the buzzing Thornton Park District. If you’re in town on the first Friday of the month, the local farmers’ market hosts late hours, perfect for collecting your evening picnic or souvenirs from Florida makers.  Sunsets here are legendary: golden light glancing off the high rises, the lake twinkling behind flocks of white and black swans, and everyone—all ages—out enjoying the start of the weekend. This is how locals unwind, and it’s effortless to join in.  Downtown Orlando After Dark: Live Music, Cocktails, and Nightlife  As Friday slips into evening, Orlando’s downtown comes alive with music, laughter, and good food. If you want to wrap up your day with a little entertainment and local flavor, point yourself to Church Street and Wall Street Plaza, where open-air bars and al fresco patios buzz with happy hour specials.  Here, rooftop bars like Latitudes let you soak up skyline views with a fruity cocktail in hand. For a proper Florida craft beer hit, stop by Motorworks Brewing or Broken Strings Brewery, renowned for creative IPAs and small-batch seasonals, often paired with live local music.  Not in the mood for a late night? Hit a live jazz lounge or check for pop-up art shows and indie film screenings at the Dr. Phillips Center or CityArts. Orlando’s creative scene is ever-changing but always inclusive—the perfect way to end your Friday with good company and discoveries you won’t find in a guidebook.  Your Friday, Orlando-Style  From astronaut encounters to sunset cocktails, swan boats to rollicking dinner shows, Orlando transforms your Friday into a rolling adventure fueled by flavor, fun, and local color. Whether you’re traveling solo, with kids, or a crew of friends, the city’s energy and variety mean your Friday is exactly what you want it to be: exciting, easygoing, or maybe a blend of both. All you have to do is step out and make it yours.    Like this? Check out our guide to magnificent mornings in Orlando, and browse our secret guide to Orlando’s hidden gems.  Step up your sightseeing with Go City®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  See more, do more, and experience more with Go City®– just choose a pass to get started! 
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Your Guide to Orlando Airport

Everybody loves a good vacation to Orlando. From museums and other cultural institutions to beaches and the Everglades National Park, there’s no end of things to do. In fact, whether you’re a theme park junkie or the type who loves to explore the great outdoors, Central Florida has you covered. Of course, getting to Orlando is the first step in that amazing Florida vacation you’ve been planning. As a busy airport, Orlando (MCO) can be a bit challenging to navigate—especially for first-time visitors to the area and those traveling with little ones. Check out our handy guide to Orlando International Airport, including tips for how to navigate the airport with kids and basic info on how to get around... Orlando Airport Overview Orlando Airport serves 39 different airlines with both domestic and international destinations. Depending upon your airline, you will fly in and out of one of two terminals, A or B. If you need to know which terminal you’ll be in, you can consult the official airport website. Your ticket should also have this information clearly indicated. To help you navigate the airport and find your gate, we recommend consulting the terminal map. You will also need to use a monorail to get to your gate once you’re past security, but this can be a fun experience for the whole family—especially train-loving little kids! Orlando Airport Main Hub & Shopping There’s a main hub between the two terminals that can be a fruitful resource for gifts, toys, and a way to entertain antsy kids. There’s even an arcade (next to the kid magnet Natalie’s Candy Jar) that features both new and classic games. It can be a fun way for the kids to burn off steam, or for you all to play together. There are plenty of places to shop if you have time to kill or souvenirs left to collect, including a SeaWorld store, two Kennedy Space Center stores, two Universal stores with loads of Harry Potter merchandise, and two different Disney stores that have everything you could want. Disney’s Earport is located in the East Hall, and has a pin station where you can trade collectible Disney pins—a popular practice with Disney fanatics. The second store, Magic of Disney, is on the South Walk and boasts large themed screens that serve as great photo backdrops. This is the main place for shopping, and comes before the security gates, so keep that in mind when arriving or departing. If you’re leaving on a departing flight, you’ll need to fit all of your purchases into your luggage before going through security and boarding your flight. However, feel free to load up on separate bags if you’re heading out the front doors! Orlando Airport Security Like all airports, MCO employs standard security procedures as implemented by the TSA. That means you’ll need to make sure you have the right size toiletries, bring no liquids through with you except for medicine or breast milk, and remove all large electronics from your bags. One less common thing the Orlando Airport also requires is that you remove all food items from your non-checked bags. You can bring them through, just make sure they are accessible to take out when going through the line. If you are traveling with little ones, remember that the TSA does not require kids 12 and under to take off their shoes, light jackets, or hats. Babies must be taken out of their strollers and carried through the metal detector, although they can also be carried in a sling. For more information on getting through TSA screening procedures with your kids, check out their official guide to traveling with children. As one of the busiest airports in the country, Orlando Airport also often has tremendously long security lines. Please arrive well in advance of your flight time to make sure that you have time to get through. It can also help to be aware of carry-on restrictions and other policies before you travel to make sure that your time through to the other side isn’t an age and a half. Orlando Airport Dining Options If you arrive early enough at the airport before your departure and need to work in a meal or snack, rest assured—dining options of all stripes abound at MCO. Looking for something fast and inexpensive in the main terminal? Moe’s Southwest Grill and McDonald’s are easy choices at the Main Terminal Food Court. There are three restaurants at the attached Hyatt Regency, as well as a delicious Macaroni Grill, all of which provide more options than fast food. Sports fans may also want to check out the new City Pub, which features local beer and tasty food. It’s also an official supporting bar for the Orlando City Soccer Club, so it’s perfect for sports fans. Fortunately, City Pub is also a relaxed atmosphere that is suitable for kids. The dining options are more diverse once you get past security, including a Chipotle, Cibo Express, Wendy’s, Nathan’s, and an Outback Steakhouse, among several others. There are also some fun adult-friendly options like the upscale Cask & Larder, which brings a farm-to-table sensibility to MCO. If you’d like to review all of your dining options before your visit to see which would be the best for your family—especially those of you with any food allergies or specific diets—the Orlando Airport has conveniently provided a dining directory. Orlando Car Rentals, Shuttles, and Ride Share When arriving in Orlando and needing to find your way from the airport to your hotel or resort, you have multiple options. The most common option is to rent a car, especially if you are doing more than just Disney. Keep in mind that a high-traffic airport like Orlando will often run out of cars later in the day, so be sure to make your rental reservation in advance. Car rental companies are located on both A and B sides of the terminal on Level 1. For those of you who are headed to Disney, the Disney Magical Express is a shuttle that escorts arriving guests to their Disney resort. You’ll need to have your MagicBands ready to be scanned, but the trip is other a pretty painless way to get to your resort or hotel in the Disney-verse. If you’re looking for a taxi or ride share like Uber or Lyft, go to the Ground Transportation area on Level 1. Please note that there is a small fee charged for airport pick-ups that will be added onto your total bill. A good idea can be to look for coupons or deals before arriving to help you save, as the Orlando Airport isn’t very close to downtown and your fare could be quite high.   Orlando Airport Insider Tips The Orlando Airport has an official app—available for Android or Apple—that can be a smart choice for frequent flyers or anyone who likes the extra guidance. Don’t have a smartphone, or prefer not to download the app? There are plenty of interactive kiosks around the airport with the same helpful information. Arrive two to three hours before your flight departs to allow time to go through security and take advantage of the shopping and dining. If your flight arrives late and you have tired and grumpy kids, it may be easier and most cost-effective to stay at a hotel near or in the airport. The Hyatt Regency is an easy choice, as it’s located right in the center of the airport and offers good deals. Important: Once past security, you’ll need to choose one of the monorails to get you to your gate. If you pick the wrong one, you’ll have to take it back and go through security again, so be sure you know which one will head to your gate! Save on Orlando Attraction Tickets Once you’ve successfully made it through the Orlando Airport, it’s time to get down to exploring. If you’re interested in checking what Orlando has to offer beyond the major theme parks, a Go Orlando pass is a smart choice. You can save up to 50% on combined admission to top attractions like LEGOLAND® Florida, Madame Tussauds, SEA LIFE Aquarium, and many I-Drive activities. It’s a convenient digital pass that you get instant access to upon purchase, so whether you plan ahead or opt-in last minute, you can enjoy big savings. Happy travels! So grab an Orlando pass and make the most of your trip!
Katie Sagal

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