Best Time to Visit Orlando

A popular entertainment hub, Orlando draws in millions of visitors each year. The best things to do in the city run the gamut – from iconic theme parks to fantastic cultural amenities, you’ll never be bored here. Whether you’re taking a selfie outside the iconic Cinderella Castle at Disney World, making a splash at Aquatica, or strolling through the winding walking trails of Kraft Azalea Garden, the City Beautiful promises a vacation to remember. But with so many draws also come some drawbacks – big crowds, high heat, and heavy price tags. If you’ve never visited before, you might just be wondering when it would be the best time to go. Thankfully, that’s what we’re here for! Keep scrolling to read through our comprehensive overview of when to make your way to Orlando!

November - December

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Sure, the first thoughts that come to mind when you think of Orlando are sunny blue skies and high temperatures. But for those who are looking to beat the heat, the holidays are a great option. Though you’ll be miles more comfortable, the major attractions are still likely to be pretty busy (this is the holiday season, after all). Still, there’s a reason that so many are drawn towards visiting during this time of the year – during these months, the popular sites pull out all the stops for the holidays - and quite frankly, it couldn't be more magical. Some top things to do during this time of the year include:

  • Disney Very Merriest After Hours - This event includes four hours of holiday festivities, including Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks, Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, as well as an exciting stage show. And as if that wasn’t enough, on select nights you can catch captivating ‘’snowfalls’’, transforming the park into a magical winter wonderland.
  • International Festival of the Holidays - A fantastic celebration of culture, Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays rings in the merriest time of the year with a global celebration of Christmas. Don’t miss out!
  • Dazzling Nights - Thousands of lights bring Harry P. Leu Gardens to life purely for our enjoyment. Enjoy live music and interactive elements in this wonderful seasonal dreamland.

October

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While the City Beautiful is enjoyable any time of the year, we especially love October. Though hurricane season isn’t quite over yet by this point, temperatures are a little lower than in the summertime, making it great for visiting outdoor attractions. The major plus of visiting during October is, of course, Halloween. If you’re anything like us, your favorite holiday incites total fear - and luckily, Orlando knows how to do it right. Of course, the theme parks go all out for this one – so much so that it’d be rude not to check them out. As for nightlife, the best Halloween events take place downtown. And for those who like to play it cool, you’ll find a lot of interesting and crafty festivals cropping up all across the city. Additionally, you can get great value on accommodation and activities during this time of the year. Some of the best things to do during October include:

  • Oktoberfest – Who doesn’t love an Oktoberfest? Held each year in Avalon Park, this traditional Bavarian festival has a beer garden, live music, and plenty of food to go around. We couldn’t think of a better way to spend a festive afternoon in Orlando.
  • Disney After Hours Boo Bash – Held each year at Magic Kingdom, this three-hour-long event features seasonal entertainment, exclusive culinary offerings, and more. Don’t forget to dress up!

January - February

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Another good time to visit Orlando is at the start of the year. If the city’s famous tropical weather is what concerns you about making the trip, then this is the coolest time to go. With lowered temperatures and drier weather, the period between January and February is an especially great choice for those who are planning to visit a lot of theme parks. We recommend packing clothes which you can layer with, since it can get pretty chilly in the evening, and the weather can be quite unpredictable. This is also a prime period to explore the city’s most iconic sites since it’s during the school term, and the area will be less crowded. Though there aren’t any holidays during these months, Orlando is one of those places where there is a lot happening all year round. No matter what you choose to do, we’re sure it’ll be fantastic!

September

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If crowds are your enemy, we recommend going in September. Sunseekers and adrenaline junkies alike will love this period since it's still hot-hot-hot, but without all of the hustle and bustle compared the that of peak tourist season. Since schools are back into action the first week of September, you’ll find that even the city’s most popular attractions are much quieter. We recommend packing summery clothing since it’s still likely to be warm and humid during September. Because it’s low season, this is one of the more affordable times to visit Orlando. Around this time of the year, you’ll be able to find some great deals for hotels, events and dining. Whether you’re travelling as a large group, a couple, or a solo traveller, September is a fantastic option for those looking to explore all of the city’s main draws. Some of our favorite things to do in September include:

  • Fairy Doors Exhibit – Throughout the month of September, Harry P. Leu Gardens transforms into a magical forest with its Fairy Doors exhibit. At the event, you are tasked to spot the intricate wooden doors hidden around the park on some of the centuries-old trees.
  • Lakeridge Wine and Cheese Festival – Kick back and relax at Lakeridge Winery with a wide variety of culinary offerings from local artisan vendors and of course, plenty of wine to go around!
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Orlando is truly a special place to visit. Boasting spectacular theme parks, wondrous nature attractions, and interesting cultural institutions, there’s never a shortage of awesome things to do here. To make the most out of your trip, it’s important to have structure. Remember – there's no single perfect time to visit, only a time that’s right for 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
Go City Travel Expert

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Is Orlando Safe?

With its emblematic theme parks and year-round beautiful weather, Orlando is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world that you can visit. Forever fun and presenting countless interesting activities to choose from, the city has made a prime choice for family vacations for generations now. Still, those making a trip to the City Beautiful might stop to ask themselves before visiting, ‘’well, is it safe?’’ If you’re planning to make your way over to Orlando and have any concerns about your trip, don’t worry! We’ll help you figure that all out with our guide to staying safe in the area. Keep scrolling to learn more about how you can stay mindful when exploring Orlando. How Safe is Orlando? If you’re travelling to Orlando for the first time, you might be worried about crime in the area. Since Orlando is a tourist-heavy location, petty crime is an unfortunately common occurrence, coming in a wide variety of forms. From bag-snatching and phone grabbing to pickpocketing and credit card fraud, it can sometimes seem like there’s a lot to be aware of here. When you’re walking around the theme parks, be sure to keep your wallet hidden and possessions secure at all times. To avoid standing out from the crowd, we suggest that you dress conspicuously and keep valuable items out of full view. While all of this sounds like it can be a little unsettling, we know that if you’re smart about it, you should be just fine. Is Transport in the City Safe? In coming to a new city, it's important that visitors are able to get around safely. As a big city and thriving tourist destination, Orlando presents countless options for local transportation, each with their own perks. If you’re looking for total convenience and freedom of travel, renting a car from a local vendor is always a good option. Not only is this choice one of the most secure ways to explore the area, but it will save you money. As another easy and time-efficient course of action, taxis are available at most major attractions and hotels. For those who want to use cabs as a primary mode of transportation, we suggest that you stay vigilant of your surroundings and keep a close eye on your belongings. And for a more cost-effective way to see Orlando, the city’s comprehensive bus system is a good choice. When taking any public transport, we recommend that you work out your route ahead of time, and to avoid these types of services at night if you can. Though making your way around a new city can seem a little daunting, with the right planning, it will seem like no biggie. How to Stay Safe in Orlando When travelling to a new area, you have a right to know whether it's safe to explore. Of course, there is no one straight-up answer to this – like most big cities, Orlando presents some areas that pose less of a threat than others. For those who are particularly worried about personal safety, areas like I-Drive, Kissimmee and Winter Park should make you feel more comfortable. Bursting with iconic attractions and events, these places are always a great option. Whilst staying in areas which you are more familiar with may seem like a good idea, there’s a lot more of the city to see. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, then downtown is filled with fantastic cultural attractions that are not to be missed. If you do decide to explore one of Orlando's bolder neighborhoods, it's important to always pay attention to your surroundings. As long as you keep your wits about yourself and stay sharp, you should experience no problems here. Are the Theme Parks Safe? Another common concern of visitors to Orlando is the theme parks, and how safe they may be. If you’re planning your stay around some of the city’s most popular entertainment attractions, it might be comforting to hear that park regulation is left up to the state. With so many fantastic sites packed into one area, Florida has pretty strict safety measures regarding its amusement parks – so there’s no need to worry here. Still, it’s important to stay smart when exploring these iconic attractions. Walking around the site, we recommend staying in groups of two or more, and always carrying a theme park map with you. When visiting one of these attractions, you should also keep a mobile phone with you, so that you can stay connected with the rest of your group. Whilst these places can seem a little intimidating due to their impressive size, if you approach them with the right attitude, you’ll make memories for years to come! Is Orlando Safe at Night? Though Orlando is generally recognized as a family destination, its nightlife is a real treat for those who are willing to explore. With areas like I-Drive, downtown, and Ivanhoe Village all offering a great way to let loose a little on vacation, you’ll be spoiled for choice. And whilst Orlando’s bar scene stands up to any major US city, it can also present some real dangers. Whilst spiking and attacks are irregular incidences, we all recognize that they can and do happen – so it's essential to know what you can do to protect yourself. For starters, when heading out for a night on the town, we recommend going with a group (you should stay with your group throughout the night to ensure total safety). At the bar, it’s important to always keep an eye on your beverage and remember to drink plenty of water as well. When making your way back to your accommodation, make sure to choose a safe method of transportation – we suggest taking a taxi over public transport. Whilst all of this might seem like a lot to handle, you can never put a price on safety! Without a doubt, Orlando is a fantastic destination for exploration and adventure – however, it’s always important for visitors to stay alert and make smart decisions when discovering this unique entertainment capital. Whilst the bustling streets and theme parks might seem a little chaotic to some travellers, with a little common sense, you should be able to handle them like a pro. 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
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Where to Stay in Orlando

Blessed by year-round beautiful weather and sunny skies, Orlando is best known for its major attractions like Magic Kingdom, Universal Studios, and Seaworld. For anyone making their way to the City Beautiful for the first time, choosing a place to stay can be a little overwhelming. Still, we’re here to tell you that there’s no single winning spot to make your roots – rather, you should choose somewhere to suit your vacation plans and reasons for visiting. If you’re looking to hit the theme parks, then International Drive is where you’ll want to be. For nightlife and culture, you couldn’t do much better than downtown Orlando. Or, to live like the locals, check out Eatonville. Wherever you choose to stay in the city, you’ll have a great time. Check out our list for further guidance on which area would be right for you. International Drive Whilst there’s much to see and do everywhere in the city, International Drive remains a popular tourist hotspot for its proximity to the city’s most famous attractions. Stay here, and you’ll be well within reach of top theme parks like Magic Kingdom, Universal Studios, and Aquatica. Though its theme parks are the area’s main draw, if you conduct a little research you’ll find ample reason to love this vibrant area of the city. Not unlike the ‘Vegas Strip’, the area offers clusters of hotels, restaurants, shops and attractions to choose from. From great entertainment districts to fun shopping opportunities, International Drive really has it all. Serving as a major tourist corridor since 1972, this area provides accommodation choices for all types of travellers. No matter what price range or style you’re looking for, you’re sure to find something to suit you. Travelling is made easy in this part of the city, with excellent bus services and even some hotels offering free shuttles to the main amusement parks. Whether you’re travelling with family or going solo, we recommend this spot for those who like to be in the center of all the action. Kissimmee Another great option for tourists is of course Kissimmee. A little further out from all the hustle and bustle, this area presents a great mix of nature and urban attractions to keep everybody happy. Whilst the area is still very close to Orlando’s most famous theme parks, you’ll find that there’s so much more to love about Kissimmee. From Fun Spot America to the Monument of States, there’s a lot to see here. Most visitors rent out condos or villas in gated communities, creating a relaxed vibe that is ideal for families and big groups. If you decide to go down this route, you’ll have access to the community park, clubhouse, and a common pool. A tried-and-true classic, there’s no going wrong when you stay in Kissimmee. Winter Park For those looking to explore a different side of the city, Winter Park may be your best bet. Once considered a winter resort, this charming area presents much to do for culture vultures and art lovers. For those with a thirst for knowledge, the area has the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum, Cornell Fine Arts Museum and Casa Feliz Historic Home Museum amongst many others. It doesn’t stop there though – Winter Park is also a prime destination for nature lovers, with over 70 parks in the vicinity which host various events, festivals and celebrations throughout the year. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun or catch a late-night movie under the stars, you’ll never be bored in Winter Park. Staying in this area also means that you’ll still be super close to all those quintessential Orlando attractions, without feeling overwhelmed by them. Win-win! Eatonville If you’re looking for somewhere a little bit more relaxed, why try Eatonville? Located just a few miles north of the city, this area is often recognized for its unique history, as it was one of the first all-black self-governing municipalities in the United States. Today, this thriving cultural gem is a great place to stay in the city, offering something a little different from your typical Orlando vacation. Here, you’ll find fantastic one-of-kind cultural amenities, including the Zora Neale Hurston Museum and the Moseley House which are well worth the visit. Its dining and drinking scenes boast killer bars and restaurants – try southern-style fried fish at Soul Food Fantasy, or for something a little sweet, head over to DaJen Eats Café & Creamery. Offering a laidback ‘’live like the locals’’ experience, we love this spot because it allows us to see more of the area. Downtown Last but most certainly not least, we recommend downtown Orlando for those traveling without kids. Matching the vibrant energy of Winter Park, the city’s historic center is known as a total hub of cultural activity. Daytime attractions are definitely not far and few between; with the Amway Center, Lake Eola Park, and Wells’ Built Museum just a stone's throw away, there’s a lot to see here. Come nightfall, the area is fun and bustling with life. If you’re wondering about dining options (and let’s be real, why wouldn’t you be?) don’t worry – the area presents some of the best bars and restaurants in the city. Getting around the area is pretty simple – you can hail down passing cabs, check out the city’s metropolitan bus system, or just walk it. Never one to disappoint, we particularly love this area to stay in because it’s always reforming itself, coming up with cool and interesting new things to do. Crammed with iconic sites and bursting with fun, Orlando is well-recognized as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. A trip to the City Beautiful is a dream come true for many, so putting the right amount of research into where you stay is key. Whether you’re looking to hit the theme parks, visit the area’s best museums, or just relax, your chosen location will play heavily into your vacation. Of course, there isn’t one spot that is truly best for everyone – just one that is right for you. Wherever you choose to stay, just remember – the city is what you make of it. See the sites, discover new things, and most importantly, have fun! 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

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