Your Guide to Orlando Airport

By Katie Sagal
Published: July 18, 2024

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Arrive two to three hours before your flight departs to allow time to go through security and take advantage of the shopping and dining.
  4. 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.
  5. 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
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
couple having fun on a drive in orlando
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Take on Tuesday: Playful Plans for Your Orlando Getaway

Orlando on a Tuesday: Unmissable Adventures for Your Trip  So you’re spending a Tuesday in Orlando? Wise choice! This city doesn’t believe in “slow days.” Sure, the weekends get the most hype, but we think Tuesday is the sweet spot—crowds are lighter, restaurants and attractions still buzz with energy, and you’ll enjoy Orlando’s playful soul at your own perfect pace. Whether you’re in town chasing theme-park thrills, hanging with sea creatures, or seeking out surprising local faves, Tuesdays serve up an Orlando experience you’ll treasure.  Orlando packs its calendar all week long, and on Tuesdays you’ll find a cool mix of big-ticket adventures and homegrown fun. Want an up-close astronaut encounter? Longing for lakeside sunsets? Eager to try outrageous mini golf, check out modern art, or dance to live local bands? Let’s craft your ultimate Tuesday itinerary. Ready to get out there?  Our Tuesday must-dos in Orlando include:  Kennedy Space Center  Gatorland  The Orlando Eye  SEA LIFE Aquarium  Museum of Illusions  ICON Park  Lake Eola Park strolls and swan boat rides  Tasting delights at East End Market  The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show  Gatorland: Wild Encounters and Pure Florida Charm  Orlando’s wildest residents star at Gatorland, the self-proclaimed “Alligator Capital of the World.” We know what you’re imagining: toothy snouts and snap-happy jaws—and yes, there’s plenty of that. But Gatorland on a Tuesday has another side: the staff is extra friendly, the shows feel tailor-made, and the animal antics are endlessly entertaining.  Stroll wooden boardwalks above winding swamps and spot hundreds of gators basking, swimming, or maybe eyeing your shoes. The gator jump show is legendary—watch in amazement as these heavy-hitters launch themselves for a snack. Don’t miss the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line, soaring you right over the jawline action below—it’s equal parts thrill and bragging rights.  If you prefer your wildlife cute instead of colossal, visit the petting zoo or catch a glimpse of Gatorland’s rescued big cats and colorful birds. The park’s vibe is relaxed, and you can meander through cypress groves or get up close with baby ‘gators at the touch pool. Gatorland manages genuine Florida nostalgia—think vintage family vacations—but with adventure dialed up for today’s explorer.  The Orlando Eye: 360 Views (and Instagram Gold)  Why see Orlando at ground level when you can take it in from 400 feet up? The Orlando Eye, soaring above ICON Park, brings the city’s skyline alive—especially on a Tuesday evening when the lights of Orlando’s attractions and downtown shimmer in every direction.  The air-conditioned capsules are sleek and comfy, with music for atmosphere and digital displays pointing out landmarks from Disney to the Kennedy Space Center (on a clear day, your view stretches all the way to Cape Canaveral). The ride is smooth and slow, making it ideal for families, couples, and anyone who wants unbeatable photos—sunsets up here are next-level.  What we love most? The mood at ICON Park on Tuesdays feels special: fewer lines, more time to watch the city roll out below your feet, and cozy little bars and restaurants nearby for a post-ride toast. Plan your visit at sunset for that golden glow, or go after dark when the wheel itself lights up in programmable colors that dance across the Florida night.  SEA LIFE Aquarium: Dive into the Deep, Rain or Shine  Orlando’s weather can switch in a flash, but SEA LIFE Aquarium never fails to delight—especially on quieter Tuesdays. Imagine winding tunnels with sharks, rays, and guitarfish gliding right overhead; shimmering jellyfish pulsing in the dark; and rescued turtles floating serenely by. Kids will have their noses pressed to the glass, while grown-ups enjoy the peaceful underwater vibes.  SEA LIFE shines brightest with its interactive zones: touch pools let you meet sea stars and anemones. “Behind the Scenes” tours are offered throughout the week, but Tuesdays mean more one-on-one chats with aquarists—ask them about the aquarium’s conservation efforts, and you’ll leave inspired.  We love how this spot mixes education, wow-factor, and outright cuteness. Look out for themed talks at the huge “360 Ocean Tunnel”—if you’re lucky, you’ll catch a diver feeding the rays while waving at guests. Whether you’re a marine-life fanatic or just looking for a cool-out session, SEA LIFE hits the spot.  Museum of Illusions: Mind-Bending Fun for All Ages  Ready to break reality for an hour? Orlando’s Museum of Illusions, smack in the heart of ICON Park, takes you on a wild ride through upside-down rooms, holographic hallways, and tricksy optical installations where nothing is as it seems. You’ll giggle your way through anti-gravity tunnels, vanish (almost!) into vortex rooms, and pose for photos that will have friends back home scratching their heads.  The best part about a Tuesday visit? You’ll have all the time and space you need to experiment with each exhibit, ask the friendly guides for tips, and try those hands-on puzzles. It’s impossible to be bored here, and every room is a new “wait, what just happened?” moment. The Museum of Illusions is perfect for small groups and solo travelers alike, and we guarantee you’ll leave with at least half a dozen new screensaver-worthy snaps.  Lake Eola Park: Urban Nature and Swan Boats  Every city has its green heart, and in downtown Orlando, that’s Lake Eola Park. Tuesday mornings and afternoons are blissfully calm, with locals strolling the loop, runners breezing by, and swans (plus plenty of hungry ducks) claiming the water’s edge.  Rent a classic swan boat for a dreamy paddle across the lake—you’ll get up-close views of the fountain and the city skyline. If you’re more of a landlubber, the walking trail winds past flowerbeds, shaded picnic spots, and an amphitheater where you might catch a free rehearsal or pop-up show midweek.  Lake Eola is also home to surprise art installations and loads of photo ops. By lunch, the food trucks often park nearby—look for BBQ sandwiches or fresh empanadas. Grab a cold drink, snag a shady bench, and simply soak in this authentic slice of Orlando life.  East End Market: Local Flavor, Laid-Back Vibes  Just northeast of downtown, the East End Market gathers local makers, growers, and food wizards under one cozy roof. On a Tuesday, the market’s pace is mellow, and you can chat with bakers, baristas, and artists who define Orlando’s homegrown food scene.  Start with coffee from Lineage, where beans are roasted on site, and your cappuccino comes with seasonal latte art. Grab a flaky pastry from Olde Hearth Bread Co. or a Vietnamese bánh mì sandwich from Dochi—the mochi donuts here are pillow-soft and come in rotating, colorful flavors. Drop into the local florist to ogle Florida wildflowers or check the schedule for pop-up cooking demos (they happen throughout the week).  East End Market is as much a community space as a food destination. Browse handmade crafts, sample local honey, or simply people-watch from the outdoor patio. It’s a gentle, flavorful experience that reveals the real flavor of Orlando—no rollercoaster required.  The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show: Laughs, Illusions, and Pizza  Dinner and a show is always a good idea, and on Tuesdays The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show makes it unforgettable. Hosted inside WonderWorks’ famous upside-down mansion on International Drive, this is part comedy, part magic, and all-around fun for every member of your crew.  Here’s what to expect: you grab a seat at long dining tables, order up endless pizza (the classic pepperoni is the local favorite!), popcorn, salad, and soft drinks while the host—part stand-up, part wizard—takes the stage. The magic tricks are fast, family-friendly, and peppered with audience participation. Don’t be surprised if you end up on stage yourself, helping with card tricks or escaping from a straight jacket.  What sets this show apart is how personalized it feels. On a Tuesday, the crowd is friendly, the pace is lively, and the cast feeds off the energy in the room. Whether you’re on a romantic date night, wrangling a pack of kids, or catching up with friends, The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show is pure happiness (with free refills).  Wrap-Up: Make Tuesday the Highlight of Your Orlando Week  There’s no such thing as a dull Tuesday in Orlando. Whether your vibe is astronaut awe, wild animal encounters, urban street art, or kicking back by the lake with local eats, this city delivers day-long energy and endless potential for adventure. Jump into the fun, beat the crowds, and discover a fresh side of Orlando you’ll want to revisit on every trip.    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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Relaxing Things to do in Orlando

Orlando can most certainly be a lot of fun, but what do you do when you need a break from all the chaos? Well, that’s what we’re here for! As one of the most popular tourist destinations within the United States, the city is often recognized for its famous amusement parks. Still, the area has just as much to offer for those who want to relax. For nature lovers and those who like to stay active, the area’s beautiful green spaces are an absolute must-visit. If you’re a culture vulture, be sure to check out some of the fantastic museums in the city. And for artsy types, there’s no better place to be than the Orlando Theatre. So, if you’re planning to make the visit, follow our guide to the best relaxing things to check out in Orlando during your stay. Whatever you decide to do, we’re sure it’ll be great! Find Fun Activities If you’re looking to reconnect with nature, look no further than the Disney Wilderness Preserve. In a city with so much buzz, this quiet and serene oasis is the perfect place to appreciate mother nature in all its glory. Situated on the Everglades National Park, the preserve offers the special chance to view a completely unique ecosystem not currently found anywhere else on the planet. Walking along the trails, you’ll be able to view over 1,000 plants and animals all prospering together. Whether you’re looking to take a quiet moment of contemplation or just soak up the natural wonders of Orlando, this hidden gem should rank at the very top of your itinerary! When it comes to relaxing things to do in Orlando, we love nothing more than a visit to the park. Thankfully, the city has much to offer in the realm of open spaces, with Lake Eola Park being one of our favorites. Located right in the center of downtown Orlando, this peaceful expanse has long been a popular draw for locals and visitors alike. Offering plenty of space and fresh air, this beloved urban landscape is a fantastic respite from the city, with beautiful flower beds and spectacular views of the Orlando skyline. For the perfect afternoon out, take time to feed the swans or enjoy a pedal-powered boat ride across the gleaming waters of the lake. What more could we possibly ask for? Get Cultured If your ideal relaxing day out is a trip to the museum – don't worry, we’ve got you covered. The perfect stop for all artsy types, the Orlando Museum of Art seeks to preserve, present, and interpret art for a wide audience. In its impressive collection, the museum holds over 2,400 objects including Contemporary Art, American Art, and that of the Ancient Americas. Walking through the institution, you’ll be able to view everything from fine art and modern sculpture to classical paintings and more. In the past, the gallery has premiered artists such as Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Georgia O’Keeffe. Well curated and displayed with much to see, this place is well worth the trip. For some downtime in the evening, why not check out the Orlando Theatre? Over its many years of operation, this place has stood the test of time by providing world-class entertainment to the community. If you’re looking to catch a line-up of theater productions, such as plays, comedy, and music, you couldn’t be anywhere better. Here, you’ll be able to find everything from fantastic dramas and side-splitting stand-ups to animated musicals and concerts, all under one roof. The theater has been host to many famous performers in the past, including Paul McCartney, Elton John and Kevin Hart. A total hub of entertainment and culture, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend an evening out in the city. Try Something New When visiting a new area, there’s no better way to explore the local culture than through its markets. Open early every Saturday morning on the busy streets of Orlando, the Winter Park Farmers’ Market is the perfect place to soak up the sun. We love this spot for its outstanding selection of fruit and vegetables. Still, the real attraction here is the market’s wide variety of food vendors, made fresh as you go. Each week, the crowds queue up for chicken pot pies, Jamaican patties, freshly popped kettle corn, and Kombucha. In addition, you can browse the stalls for locally produced honey and cheeses as well as jewellery and original art. Whether you just want to grab a quick bite, or maybe get to know the city a little bit better, this place provides the perfect relaxing cultural experience. Grab your punnets and don’t forget your sunscreen for the next item on our list. Orlando is well-recognized for its beautiful weather, and with that of course comes some wonderful fruit farms to be enjoyed. Quintessentially Florida and totally idyllic, the Showcase of Citrus is probably one of the more unique ways to take a breath. Situated just downtown from the city, this large working orchard covers over 2, 500 acres of land and over 50 varieties of citrus to be enjoyed. Standing out from other outdoorsy attractions in the city, this place welcomes visitors onto its premises to pick their own fruit and admire the beautiful scenery. We love this place because it truly encapsulates the nature of Orlando. The theme parks. The crowds. The heat. All this craziness can make Orlando seem like a stressful vacation spot, but we promise you that there is refuge amidst the hustle and bustle. The City Beautiful showcases a wonderful blend of outdoorsy attractions and urban places of interest, – from its wonderful viewing world-class pieces at the Orlando Museum of Art to walking the trails at the Disney Wilderness Preserve, you’ll never run out of calming things to do in the area. Whether you’re a foodie, a creative type, or just looking to take in the city, you’re certain to find something to suit your tastes. 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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