Updated: April 17, 2025 by Michael Kahn. Published: April 17, 2025.
Planning a fun-filled getaway? It’s hard to beat Orlando, Florida. With world-famous theme parks, incredible wildlife experiences, and sunshine nearly all year round, it’s no wonder this vibrant city tops so many travel bucket lists.
But if it’s your first time visiting, it can feel a bit overwhelming. When should you go? Where should you stay? How do you get around easily?
Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. This guide is packed with essential tips to help you make the most of your first trip to the City Beautiful.
Table of Contents
Choosing the Best Time
Before you start organizing your accommodation or booking your flights, it’s important to think about when you want to head to Orlando. There’s no single “perfect” time, but there are certain factors worth bearing in mind.
The Weather: Orlando is known for being warm and sunny almost all year round, but the summers can be incredibly hot and humid. They might not be the best fit, especially if you’re traveling with young children. Winters tend to be cooler and drier, whereas spring and autumn offer warmer temperatures with less humidity than the summer.
Crowd Levels: There’s no getting away from the fact that Orlando is a popular destination and during peak times like school holidays, you’re going to find bigger crowds and longer queues. If you’re looking for a calmer vibe, try visiting when most schools are in session.
Seasonal Events: If the main aim of your trip is to head to the parks, you might want to organize your trip around some of the seasonal events they host. For example, EPCOT’s International Food & Wine Festival, Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights, or Disney’s many Christmas events.
Ultimately, the “best” time involves balancing the ideal weather with the potential crowd size. Think carefully about what’s important to you before you book your vacation.
Top Tip: Some of the parks undergo refurbishments and seasonal closures, so if there is a specific one you want to visit, check before you book that it’ll be open.
Navigating Orlando
Once you’ve decided when you want to visit, you need to decide how you’re going to get out and explore. One of the easiest ways to do this is by renting a car direct from the airport. With car rental in Orlando, you’ll have complete freedom to explore the city without having to wait for public transportation. However, depending on where you stay and visit, you might face some pretty hefty parking fees.
If car rental isn’t for you, Orlando boasts a comprehensive public transportation network. The LYNX bus network operates throughout the city, making it an affordable and efficient way to get around. And, the I-RIDE Trolley is a great way to travel in the International Drive area. Just bear in mind that some destinations may require transfers, so it could take you much longer to get where you want to go.
Another option is rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. These provide the convenience of a door-to-door service without the hassle of renting a car. You’ll also avoid parking fees. The downside is that you may have to wait during peak hours and costs could mount up, depending on the journeys you make.
Top Tip: If you decide to stay in a hotel, check to see if they offer a shuttle service to and from the parks. These can be a great way to cut down costs without having to worry about finding the right bus stop.
Accommodation: On-Site Magic vs. Off-Site Value
Choosing where to stay can be incredibly difficult, especially for first-time visitors. Do you stay in the parks for eary access to the attractions or go for somewhere off-site that is potentially cheaper and has a calmer atmosphere?
Well, there are pros and cons to both. Let’s break it down.
On-Site Accommodation
Staying at a resort hotel within the theme park grounds can be a convenient and exciting option for many travelers.
Pros:
- Complete immersion in the parks for the full experience.
- Early park admission and access to queue jump passes like Lightning Lane at Disney World and Universal’s Express Unlimited.
- Lower transport costs if your main goal is to explore the parks.
Cons
- Less choice, as you’re limited to the resort hotels available.
- Potentially higher prices, especially if you travel during peak times.
- Staying on site makes it more difficult to explore the surrounding areas and gain a more sustainable travel experience.
Off-Site Accommodation
For those looking for more flexibility and the chance to see more of what Orlando has to offer, staying off-site can be a great alternative.
Pros:
- You have a bigger selection of accommodation options to choose from, making it easier to find something that suits your exact needs.
- There’s a wider range of price points, so you won’t end up blowing your budget on your accommodation.
- It’s a lot easier to explore the many other attractions Orlando has to offer when you’re not staying in one of the resorts.
Cons:
- You’ll miss out on a lot of the on-site perks that come with staying in a resort hotel.
- As you’ll have to travel to and from the parks, you’ll need to budget for transportation costs.
- You’ll miss out on the immersive park experience.
The main thing to think about when deciding on accommodation is what the goals are for your vacation. If you’re looking to throw yourself into theme parks like Disney World, then the resort hotel is well worth the extra cost. On the other hand, if you’re looking to explore more of what the city has to offer, consider booking somewhere off-site.
Top Tip: Don’t discount a vacation rental, especially if you’re traveling as a family or in a large group. They provide more shared space for relaxing and give you the option to cook your own meals.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Now you’ve decided when you’re going and have booked your accommodation, you’re sure to be incredibly excited for your trip to Orlando. But before you go, consider these final tips to make your trip go smoothly.
Don’t over schedule: There is so much to see and do in Orlando that it’s unlikely you’ll be able to fit everything in. Instead, prioritize your must-have experiences and consider booking a second trip!
Head to the Back (or Left): When people visit the parks they tend to stop at the first attraction they come to or will instinctively turn right. Buck the trend and head straight to the back of the park or go left for shorter queues and less crowds.
Prepare for the Weather: Orlando is hot and humid so remember to apply plenty of sunscreen, drink lots of water, and schedule regular breaks.
Dining Reservations: Whether you’re staying on or off-site, consider making restaurant reservations to ensure you don’t have to wait.
Launching Your Orlando Adventure
Your first trip to Orlando is sure to be an exciting adventure. Before heading to the City Beautiful, take the time to consider what your priorities are and book your accommodation and transport accordingly.
But most importantly, allow yourself to be swept up in the unique magic Orlando has to offer and make unforgettable memories that will last you a lifetime.
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Whether she is researching the latest trends in home decor, life-changing destination getaways, or the best way to maintain your finances, Dewey takes pride in leaving no stone unturned. She is passionate about distilling and delivering high-quality information that you can use to upgrade your life.
