Orlando

The theme park capital of the world, home to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld, drawing millions of visitors annually. Beyond the parks, Orlando offers upscale shopping, dining, and a thriving downtown entertainment district.

Things to do

• Walt Disney World — Explore four iconic theme parks—Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom—featuring world-class attractions, parades, and dining experiences.
• Universal Orlando Resort — Experience thrilling rides across three parks including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, with cutting-edge attractions and entertainment.
• Kennedy Space Center — Located an hour east, this working spaceport offers astronaut encounters, shuttle tours, and exhibits about space exploration and NASA history.
• SeaWorld Orlando — Marine life theme park featuring animal encounters, shows, and rides centered around ocean conservation and sea creature experiences.
• Orlando Downtown District — Vibrant entertainment hub with restaurants, bars, live music venues, shopping, and the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
• Icon Park — Attraction complex featuring The Wheel observation ride, Museum of Illusions, and other unique entertainment experiences along International Drive.

Food to try

• Florida Stone Crab Claws — Sweet, tender claws served chilled with mustard sauce, a seasonal delicacy harvested from Florida waters available fall through spring.
• Cuban Sandwich — Pressed sandwich of Cuban ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread, reflecting the region's Hispanic heritage.
• Key Lime Pie — Tart and creamy dessert made with key lime juice, condensed milk, and egg yolks, a signature Florida treat found in bakeries and restaurants throughout Orlando.
• Fresh Citrus — Florida's famous oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines available fresh-squeezed or as juices at local markets and farm stands.
• Grouper Sandwich — Crispy fried or blackened local grouper fish served on a bun, a beloved Gulf Coast-inspired dish popular at seafood restaurants.

Local customs & good to know

• Plan Ahead for Theme Parks — Book tickets and make dining reservations weeks in advance, as Orlando's major attractions reach capacity during peak seasons and reservation slots fill quickly.
• Heat and Afternoon Storms — Florida's summer heat is intense with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; visit parks early, stay hydrated, and plan indoor activities during peak heat hours.
• International Visitor Hub — Orlando welcomes visitors from around the world, so you'll find diverse languages spoken and international dining options throughout the city, making it very accessible.
• Driving Culture — A car is essential for getting around Orlando; public transportation is limited, and attractions are spread across the sprawling metropolitan area.