Best Time to Visit Orlando

UPDATED JULY 2024
By Sarah Harris

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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Best Museums in Orlando

Orlando is consistently ranked amongst the most popular tourist destinations in the United States – and it’s easy to see why. Whilst the city is perhaps best known for its famous theme parks, you may be surprised and delighted by its wide variety of cultural institutions. The best museums in Orlando run the gamut – from super fun to highly educational. For creative types, the Orlando Museum of Art is the perfect stop. If science is more your thing, then the Kennedy Space Center is well worth the visit. Or, if you’re looking for something a little different, the Museum of Illusions provides a mind-bending experience like no other. Check out this list of some of our favorites, and be sure to schedule a visit whilst you’re in the area! Fun for all the Family Have you ever wanted to see a NASA rocket close up? Well, now you can! A museum for curious minds, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex provides an engaging and educational experience with a focus on technology, aviation and human flight. Delve into the wonders of space travel, touch a piece of moon rock, and strap in for a simulation of a space shuttle’s take-off into orbit! In addition, you can attend talks and seminars held by real veteran astronauts. Dedicated to bringing the world of space travel to a broader audience, the institute provides a one-of-a-kind experience quite like no other. Whether you’re scientifically-minded or just plain curious, the Orlando Science Center works to feed inquisitive minds. As fun as it is educational, the institute works to demystify and break down complicated ideas through its exciting displays. Spread across six whole floors, the museum features exhibitions on everything from space travel and gravity to the development of the natural world - it’s really all up to you to choose your area! In addition, there’s a special spot just for kids, with engaging skill-based and learning activities and excitement around every corner. We love this place because it’s impossible to leave without having learned something new. Learn Something New If you’re looking for innovation and culture in the City Beautiful, don’t worry – we've got you covered! Founded by a group of art enthusiasts in 1924, the Orlando Museum of Art works to encourage intellectual curiosity and creative thought. Its collection is equal parts impressive and fascinating, spanning from the 18th right through to the 20th century. Walking through the museum, you’ll be able to view seminal pieces from American and international artists, ranging from recognizable classics to pivotal modern works. Highlights include influential works by Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Georgia O’Keeffe. As exciting as it is educational, the institution delivers an unmissable cultural experience for all art lovers. A trip to the museum is so much more than just a great way to spend a low-key afternoon in the city; you can also view items of huge cultural significance. Originally, the Wells’Built Museum served as a hotel and entertainment venue for African Americans visiting Orlando. It was even host to many now-famous performers, including Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong and Ray Charles. Since then, the building has been transformed into an educational facility dedicated to social past, present and future. Inside, you’ll find memorabilia of the city’s black community, displays on the Civil Rights movement, and some African art and artefacts. Trace human history and culture and leave having learned something new. Another one of our favorite cultural institutes in the city has got to be the Orlando Fire Museum. Built into a restored 1926 firehouse, this place showcases the rich and proud background of the area’s fire department. For anybody who loves history, the museum’s comprehensive collection is sure to spark intrigue. Within its permanent repository, you’ll find tools and apparatus from as early as the 1900s, including hoses, uniforms, lithographs, and more. As you make your way around the building, you’ll get to hear more about the history of the field from retired firefighters themselves. Still, the star of the show is of course the institute’s fascinating collection of antique fire engines. Bringing a fascinating part of the past to life, this cultural gem highlights the valuable work that firefighters do. Try Something Different Anybody who’s travelling with family might just appreciate the next item on our list. As the name suggests, the Museum of Illusions presents an immersive brain-twisting experience for you and your loved ones. Sure to blow you away, the institute offers a wholly unique experience that works to test your perspective and trick the mind. With over 50 captivating exhibits to choose from, the fun never quite ends here. Upon entrance, you’ll find everything from kaleidoscopes and holograms to tilted and reverse rooms. See if you can work out how some of the displays work, and definitely don’t forget to take some snaps for Instagram! The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum is one of the top places to visit in Orlando for artsy types. As a speciality institute, this place is best known for housing the largest collection of the American artist Louis Comfort Tiffany. Touring the museum is a total treat for the eyes, with each work more vibrant and detailed than the last. Still, that isn’t all there is to see here. Also noted for its wonderful Art Nouveau collection, the museum features works by the likes of Frank Lloyd Wright, William Morris and Louis Sullivan. Utterly captivating and unique, this hidden treasure works to showcase the development of modern American art. Not to knock the theme parks, but Orlando has way more to see beyond Disney World. With specialities ranging from important works of art to scientific discoveries and other family-friendly educational experiences, there’s a little something for everybody here. One thing that all of these places have in common is that they’re sure to take your breath away. And now, you don’t have to miss a thing - to get the most out of your trip, try Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
Blog

Outdoor Activities Orlando

Seated right by the eastern coastline and offering dreamy weather all year round, the Sunshine State is pretty much built for outdoor activity. With a fantastic mix of nature and urban attractions, the city caters to all types of travellers. For thrillseekers, there’s no better place to be than Orlando. Check out some of the top-rated theme parks and waterparks in the country. If you're a nature lover, lose yourself in the area’s beautiful parks and wildlife preserves. Foodies will enjoy strolling through the open-air markets dotted around the city, with more than enough to choose from. Wherever your interests may lie, Orlando has at it all! So, if you’re thinking about making the visit, use our list as a starting point for exploring the area. Whatever you choose to do in Orlando, it’s impossible to be bored! See the Classics Of course, no trip to Orlando is complete without a visit to the Magic Kingdom. Part of the Walt Disney World Resort, this place is the most visited theme park in North America – and with good reason! Bringing all of our childhood dreams to life, this place is like the world epicenter of fun and imagination. With over 40 rides, attractions and dining options to choose from, the park provides a great entertainment experience for those of all ages. There’s so much to see and do here, it’s really up to you. Highlights include Space Mountain, It’s a Small World, and Country Bear Jamboree. Oh, and definitely don’t forget to take a picture in front of the world-famous Cinderella Castle! The true magic of Universal comes to life at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where you can experience many rides and attractions based on one of the world’s best-sellers. Bringing one of our favorite movie series to life, this specialist park works to cater to all our cinematic fantasies. Franchise fans will be spoiled for choice with testing thrill rides, incredible 3D adventures, and fantastic shows. Hop on the Hogwarts Express train, pick up your very own wand in one of the stores, or sip a butterbeer in The Leaky Cauldron. Whether you’re a Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, or Slytherin, there’s plenty of fun to be had here. With those long, hot Florida days, of course you’ll be looking for somewhere to cool down. Thankfully, Orlando goes all out with their famous waterparks dotted around the city for our enjoyment. Still, out of all of its offerings, Universal’s Volcano Bay tops the list for its creativity and variety. Boasting over 20 rides and attractions from the pretty tame to the super scary, this place has a little something for everybody. Adrenaline junkies will love Ko’okiri Body Plunge, a thrill ride which a whopping 125-foot drop. For those want to play it safe, rides like the Taniwha Tubes and Maku Puihi Round Raft Rides are exhilarating without testing our fear to its very limits. The park also has a beach area and even cabanas to relax under. Whether you’re looking to get your pulse racing or just want to soak up the sun, this place truly has it all. Get in Touch With Nature Orlando’s nature reserves are some of the most interesting in the country, with thousands of acres of swamps and wetlands just waiting to be explored. Located just south of the city, the Disney Wilderness Preserve offers a considerate and ecofriendly way to view animals in their natural habitat. Part of Everglades National Park, the reserve presents a completely unique ecosystem, which is not currently seen anywhere else on the planet! Strolling through the area, you’ll be able to view over 1,000 species of plants and animals all in the same place. Along the trails, expect to see everything from cranes and deer to raptors and water snakes. If you’re an outdoorsy type, this place should place right at the top of your itinerary. If you’re looking for a way to take in the natural beauty of Orlando, don’t worry – we've got you covered! Offering a quiet respite from the city, Kraft Azalea Garden is just perfect for taking a lazy stroll, reading a book, or just simply enjoying the sights. This calm and romantic spot features majestic centuries-old oaks, cypress, and banyan trees. In addition, the park is home to many species of beautiful birds, including egrets, cranes, and woodpeckers. Enjoy the fresh air, have a picnic, or watch the sunset over Lake Maitland – the world’s your oyster! Relax! The best way to start the weekend in Orlando is by heading over to the Winter Park Farmers’ Market. Running on every Saturday from early morning right through the afternoon, this place is known for its huge spread of fresh produce. Still, what draws us in every time is its large number of food vendors, serving up an enticing array of dishes from around the globe. Snack on some freshly popped kettle corn as you browse. Try a flaky Jamaican patty hot from the oven. Indulge in a cupcake with all the trimmings. Whatever you decide to go for, we promise you won’t leave hungry! The city may best be known for its famous theme parks, but it’s also home to some wonderful urban landscapes to be discovered. Situated in the heart of downtown Orlando, Lake Eola Park is affectionately considered to be one of the city's top natural treasures. This lively green space has plenty of plant life and spectacular views of the Orlando skyline. Still, the park is more than just a pretty face; within its boundaries, you can rent swan-shaped paddle boats, feed the live swans, and see concerts at the Walt Disney Ampitheater. In addition, outdoor classes, farmers markets, and special events shine a spotlight on the scenic location throughout the year. Living up to its sunny reputation all throughout the year, Orlando makes the perfect destination for outdoor activity. Across the city, you’ll find everything from world-class theme parks and water parks to stunning gardens and wildlife reserves which make for a super relaxing day out. Whatever your interest, don’t forget to bring your sunblock and sunglasses! And now, you don’t have to miss a thing - to get the most out of your trip, try Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
Orlando
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Things to Do in Orlando When it Rains

From wacky museums to shopping and dining, there's plenty to keep you entertained.
Katie Sagal

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