Orlando Guidebook

Quick facts

• Currency: US dollar (USD). Cards are accepted almost everywhere.
• Language: English, with Spanish widely spoken.
• Time zone: Eastern Time (ET).
• Power outlets: Type A/B, 120V. The same plugs as elsewhere in the US.
• Tipping: 18-20% in restaurants and bars, and a few dollars for hotel and tour staff, is customary.

When to go

Late winter and spring (February-May) and fall (October-November) have the best balance of weather and crowds.

Summers are hot and humid, with afternoon thunderstorms, and school holidays are very busy.

The Christmas and New Year weeks are the most crowded, so book tickets and hotels early.

What to pack

• Comfortable, broken-in shoes - theme park days can mean 10 miles of walking.
• Sunscreen, a hat, and a refillable water bottle.
• A light rain jacket or poncho for summer storms.
• A portable phone charger, and a light layer for cold air conditioning.

Getting there & around

• From the airport: Orlando International Airport (MCO) is about 20 minutes from the main resort areas. Taxis, rideshare, and shuttles serve it.
• Rental car or rideshare: Orlando is very spread out, and a car or rideshare is the easiest way to get between parks and hotels.
• Resort transport: Many hotels and the major resorts run their own shuttles or buses.
• On foot: Disney Springs, ICON Park, and Lake Eola are walkable once you arrive.

Good to know before you go

• Theme parks are separate attractions with their own tickets, so decide which ones you want before you book.
• Arrive at opening, and plan the busiest rides for early or late in the day.
• Disney Springs and ICON Park have free entry, and you only pay for rides and meals.
• Kennedy Space Center is about an hour east of the city, and airboat tours run on nearby lakes and rivers. Tap water is safe to drink.

Neighborhoods to know

• Walt Disney World area: Four theme parks, resorts, and the shopping district at Disney Springs.
• International Drive: A busy tourist strip with ICON Park, restaurants, and attractions.
• Downtown and Winter Park: A calmer side of Orlando, with parks, lakes, and a historic main street.

Don't miss in Orlando

• Walt Disney World: The largest theme park resort in the world.
• Universal Studios Florida: Film-themed rides and shows.
• Kennedy Space Center: A visitor center at NASA's launch site.
• SeaWorld and an airboat tour: Marine park shows, and a trip through Florida wetlands.