What’s the best time to visit Orlando?
With its many theme parks, Orlando always brings in tourists like a magnet brings in nails. And because of central Florida’s idyllic (albeit muggy) weather, it really doesn’t make much difference what time of year you visit; it’s always t-shirt and shorts weather in Orlando.
That being said, Orlando does get hot during the summer - it’s Florida, after all - and the humidity peaks in August. If heat makes you wilt, you’re better off heading south for the winter - or spring or fall, for that matter.
If you’re traveling with the kids, and doing so during school breaks, you can expect the theme parks to be busy - really busy. But if you can get away while school’s still in session, you may just find shorter lines and smaller crowds at Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld. Otherwise, you can expect a few certainties in life: death, taxes and long lines at Orlando’s theme parks.
-
12 hours agoKristen Manieri answered the question:
Where is the best nightlife in Orlando?
Where you party tends to be dictated by where you’re staying, but if proximity to your pillow is not a factor, I always suggest leaving the theme park hotel areas and heading to the Church Street District in downtown Orlando. Thanks to the 2010 opening of the Amway Center, home to the Orlando Magic, this area of downtown is really coming to life again after a few decades of resuscitation attempts. While Rosie O'Grady's and the Cheyenne Saloon are long gone, the district’s recent restaurant and bar arrivals are creating a bit of a buzz. Ceviche, Rusty Spoon, and even the flamboyant Hamburger Mary’s diner all make for good eats, while Eternal Tap and newcomer Native are nice spots to grab a drink. On the entertainment side, just head north on Orange Avenue where you’ll find the Plaza Cinema Café 12, a movie theater, as well as SAK Comedy Lab, a zany improvisational live sketch comedy act with shows Tuesday through Saturday nights. Also in the district is the Mad Cow Theatre where a full season of high caliber plays and musicals appears on stage in this intimate venue. -
13 hours agoKristen Manieri answered the question:
What is the weather like right now in Orlando?
By mid spring, it’s pretty typical for temperatures to start reaching the mid to high 80s. Visitors will want to bring shorts, t-shirts and sundresses for the day and also a light sweater or long-sleeve shirt for the evening when temperatures cool to around 73 degrees. What’s great about spring in Orlando is that although it’s hot, it hasn’t yet reached that ‘trapped in an oven’ feel that will be setting in by summer. If you’re in the shade or the sky is a little overcast, it’s actually pretty close to perfection here at the moment. At nearby beaches, the daytime temperatures drop a little lower than inland temperatures. While the Atlantic is still pretty chilly, this is still a wonderful time to plan a beach day. Regardless of your plans, consider bringing an umbrella or rain poncho: spring doesn’t typically see the daily afternoon showers that summer brings, but rain is certainly not unheard of this time of year. -
3 days agoKristen Manieri answered the question:
What are the best attractions in Orlando?
Obviously Walt Disney World Resort, the 40-square-mile mecca of merriment, will top most visitor’s bucket list, and justifiably so. With four theme parks, two water parks, plus a dozen more fun happenings at Downtown Disney, a trip to WDW can easily eat up an entire weeklong vacation. That being said, there’s one attraction that is, in my books at least, even better: Discovery Cove. As the sister property to SeaWorld, you’ll expect to see dolphins and tropical fish; what’s surprising is that you’ll be swimming with them. Guests are outfitted with wetsuits and snorkels upon arrival and then they spend the entire day in Discovery Cove’s various wet zones, swimming with fish, wading with rays, and floating along a lazy river that passes through a free-flight aviary. It’s an unforgettable Orlando experience that’s limited to just 1,300 guests each day. Finally, you can’t come to Orlando without a visit to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter inside Universal's Island of Adventure. Even if you’re not fan of the outrageously popular book series, you’ll still appreciate the attraction’s epic rides and crafty recreation of J.K. Rowling infamous locales. -
On May 7Kristen Manieri answered the question:
Where is the best shopping in Orlando?
When it comes to deals, we are so spoiled in Orlando with the Premium Outlets, which are spread across two locations—Vineland and International Drive—that collectively house more than 300 stores. Diehard fashionistas with marathon stamina can conquer them both in the same day thanks to the trolley that connects them. You won’t find many bargains at Mall at Millenia, but the well-heeled shoppers that flock there don’t seem to mind; they’re just happy to find brands like Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton, and Gucci all under the same swanky roof. On those days when you just want to wander and see what you might find, head to Park Avenue, the bricked Winter Park shopping and dining district that’s become a favorite for people who love one-off boutiques and quirky specialty stores.
-
On May 7Kristen Manieri answered the question:
What are the best activities in Orlando?
Theme parks and kitschy International Drive attractions may be what put Orlando on the map, but they really are just the tip of the iceberg in terms of things to do in the Orlando area. In the fall, winter, and early spring months, cooler temperatures make exploring state parks—via kayak or hiking trail—an ideal activity. One of my favorites is Wekiwa Springs State Park, a pristine preserve located 30 minutes north of downtown Orlando. Rent a canoe or kayak and head out onto the river where you’re sure to see alligators, turtles, and maybe an otter or two. For another authentic Florida wilderness experience, pay a visit to Forever Florida, a 4,700-acre eco-ranch and wildlife conservation area where you can experience everything from safaris to zip-lining to overnight horseback adventures. Of course, not all those activities will be fun when the temperatures hit scorching status. On those days, consider checking out the Orlando Science Center. Between the engaging permanent and visiting exhibitions and the films screened on either the CineDome or newly unveiled Digital Adventure Theater, your brood can stay busy indoors for most of the day. -
On May 6Kristen Manieri answered the question:
What are the best attractions in Orlando?
Obviously Walt Disney World Resort, the 40-square-mile Mecca of merriment, will top most visitor’s bucket list, and justifiably so. With four theme parks, two water parks, plus a dozen more fun happenings at Downtown Disney, a trip to WDW can easily eat up an entire weeklong vacation. That being said, there’s one attraction that is, in my books at least, even better: Discovery Cove. As the sister property to SeaWorld, you’ll expect to see dolphins and tropical fish; what’s surprising is that you’ll be swimming with them. Guests are outfitted with wetsuits and snorkels upon arrival and then they spend the entire day in Discovery Cove’s various wet zones, swimming with fish, wading with rays, and floating along a lazy river that passes through a free-flight aviary. It’s an unforgettable Orlando experience that’s limited to just 1,300 guests each day. Finally, you can’t come to Orlando without a visit to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter inside Universal's Island of Adventure. Even if you’re not fan of the outrageously popular book series, you’ll still appreciate the attraction’s epic rides and crafty recreation of J.K. Rowling infamous locales. -
On May 3Kristen Manieri answered the question:
What are the best restaurants in Orlando?
One of the coolest things about Orlando's dining scene is how many restaurants are making a real effort to support local farmers. That’s translating into uber fresh food with mega flavor but also unique menus that change out daily, weekly, or at least seasonally. A true pioneer in this regard is The Ravenous Pig, a Winter Park “gastropub” that’s been topping local foodie charts since it opened a few years ago. Owners and chefs James and Julie Petrakis have infused their menu at Ravenous and its sister property, Cask & Larder, with local tomatoes, eggs, beef and freshly caught Florida seafood. The same goes for The Rusty Spoon, another pub grub meets locavore gourmand eatery in downtown Orlando Church Street district that’s built a cult-like following amongst local epicureans. At PRIMO, a high-end restaurant inside the JW Marriott Orlando, chefs use produce and herbs from the onsite organic garden as well as drizzle desserts with honey from the hotel’s on-property apiary. Last but certainly not least, deep blu seafood grille inside the Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek, not only wows diners with impeccably prepared seafood and steaks, but this artful eatery also utilizes local vodka in its Central Florida Cosmo. -
On March 26Dana Damato answered the question:
What are the best seafood restaurants in Orlando?
When you get a craving for seafood in the Orlando area, check out a couple of these top Orlando seafood restaurants:
The Oceanaire Seafood Room is located on Orlando’s famous strip – International Drive. The Oceanaire is one of Orlando’s most unique, sophisticated and sleek seafood restaurants and has been voted one of the best seafood restaurants in the United States. Have the chef prepare a mouthwatering Macadamia Nut Crusted Hawaiian Mahi or their Pan-Seared Maryland Rockfish. The Oceanaire in Orlando is open on Monday-Thursday: 5-10pm; Friday-Saturday: 5-11pm; Sunday: 5-10pm.
Ocean Prime is a part of Orlando’s Restaurant Row – a strip of restaurants located in Sand Lake Road in Orlando. Ocean Prime serves fresh and authentic seafood to satisfy almost any palette. Start the night off with their signature appetizer, the Jumpo Lump Crab Cake, followed by their Prime feature, Sea Scallops with Parmesan Risotto, English Peas and Citrus Vinaigrette. Ocean Prime is open on Monday - Thursday 4pm – 10pm; Friday - Saturday 4pm – 11pm; Sunday 4pm- 9pm. -
On March 26Dana Damato answered the question:
What is Orlando’s dining scene like?
The dining scene in Orlando highly depends on the area you’re dining in. Orlando has a booming crowd of locals and visitors and believe it or not – the dining scenes for both are pretty similar. Florida is a laid back and casual place to be and the dining scene is not different. Unless you know you’re going to be at a five star restaurant with a strict dress code, feel free to show up in flip flops and shorts.
The crowds are mostly families and younger people with a very friendly atmosphere. Don’t feel the need to be stiff in an Orlando restaurant - the attitude is warm and welcoming for everyone that walks through the door. If you’re down by the Disney and Universal area, you will find more families with young children dining out. If you’re in the Downtown Orlando area, you’ll find more of a young professional crowd. -
On March 20Dana Damato answered the question:
What is nightlife like in Orlando?
Take your Mickey ears off - Orlando will surprise you with its thriving and lively nightlife! Downtown Orlando is a mecca for the night owls to come out and enjoy a few drinks, good music and socialize with friends.
Downtown Orlando and a large variety of different restaurants, lounges, bars and clubs to enjoy and visitors can expect a young and hip crowd full of young professionals. Downtown Orlando is a big happy hour town and several professionals will head out of work early on a Friday evening to enjoy a few hours of Happy Hour. For a nightclub scene, Tier Nightclub, Vain Nightclub and 23 are popular clubs. For a more laid back atmosphere to sip a custom made drink and chat with friends, The Courtesy, Eola Wine Company and NV Artbar are the places to go. For a complete list of Downtown Orlando clubs and bars, please click here. -
On March 20Dana Damato answered the question:
What is the one must-do activity in Orlando?
If there were only one activity you had to do in Orlando – would you know what it is? There are a lot to choose from but when it comes down to the wire, the one definite thing to do is go to Disney World. As cliché and typical as that may seem, it’s the crème de la crème of what makes Orlando…”Orlando.”
Orlando isn’t known for Disney because there’s nothing else to do here. It’s known for this theme park because it is, indeed, a memorable experience that can be enjoyed by all. Disney World has several theme parks such as Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios and Epcot, amongst others. Families and individuals can spend a full day at Disney World and get a real “Orlando” experience. You can literally eat, sleep and play right on Disney property – you’d technically never have to leave the premises and you can expect a truly “magical” time! -
On March 18Dana Damato answered the question:
What are the best golf courses in Orlando?
Orlando attracts national conferences and annual corporate meetings due to its large amount of event space and venues. Several clients and colleagues will spend a day on the golf course to close deals or talk business. Here are a few of the best places to golf for leisure or business.
Ritz Carlton
The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club has a strong emphasis on maintaining the area’s ecosystem, designer Greg Norman built this exquisite course amongst the various ponds, live oaks and cypress heads. The Ritz Carlton Golf course is an 18-hole, par-72 course with an optional caddie concierge service.
Metro West Golf Club
Built in 1987 – the Metro West Golf is a residential course but attracts many visitors from around the country. This 18-hole, par 72 golf course, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., is only minutes away from Universal Studios and rests on a large plane of spring-fed lakes and shady trees.
ChampionGate Golf Club
ChampionsGate Golf Club in Orlando offers two excellent 18-hole championship golf courses designed by Greg Norman. As one of the more popular golf courses in Central Florida, ChampionsGate in designed around scenic wetlands and undulated greens. Offering a true Florida golf experience, this course features beautiful Pine Oaks and Cypress groves. -
On March 18Dana Damato answered the question:
What are the best water activities in Orlando?
Since Orlando is famous for it’s amusement parks – what better way can you enjoy a water activity than at one or Orlando’s famous water park? There are several water parks to choose from – and if you come in the summer time you’re going to want a good activity to do that will cool you down from the Florida heat.
One of Orlando’s best water parks is Disney's Blizzard Beach. Blizzard Beach has one of tallest and fastest waterslides in the country along with kid-friendly slides so the all ages can have a great time.
Wet ‘n Wild is another one of Orlando’s famous water parks located on International Drive. Wet ‘n Wild has several attractions to choose from or single riders, multi-person rides and relaxing rides for lounging. They have lifeguards at each ride and attendant to make sure each person is safe and getting the most out of their visit. -
On March 8Laura Janelle Downey answered the question:
What are the best outdoor activities in Orlando?
If you are into certain aspects of theme parks, it is worth a trip to Universal Studios just to check out The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. I actually bought an annual pass just so I could explore Hogwarts castle and hang out with wizards (lots of people come dressed up in black cloaks and pointed hats)! My advice is to make sure you're at the park right before it opens and then when you're in, head to one of the station's selling Butterbeer — the frothy beverage comes in a keepsake mug, too! After that, get in line for the ride of your life in Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. You'll sit in a cart with a few others and move through Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry with Harry Potter! The technology used allows you to see things such as Dumbledore's office, which is displayed on a screen in front of you, but the really cool thing about it is that you feel like you're actually in this adventure with Harry — and not just watching him. You're with him as he fights off dragons and so much more! This outdoor activity isn't just for kids. Adults can get in on the fun, too!
