Your Guide to Orlando Airport

By Katie Sagal

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
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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
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