Orlando is a popular Florida destination for everyone: families, couples and solo travelers. The end of January through early April is the best time to visit Orlando for lower crowds and ideal weather to explore the Florida attractions. However, Fall is an alternative option (and my favorite time) for visiting Orlando, although the weather can be a bit tricky to predict during this time of the year. I lived in Orlando for several years and visit multiple times a year now, so I have compiled my favorite spots in Orlando based on how you are traveling.
Visiting Orlando with Your Family
WHERE TO STAY:
It is no surprise that there are tons of family friendly hotels to choose from in Orlando, Florida. But my absolute all time favorite is The Ritz-Carlton Grande Lakes. The luxurious bedrooms will spoil mom and dad while the kids club and free ice cream excites the kids.
WHERE TO EAT:
The amount of restaurants in Orlando is overwhelming. I can list hundreds of solids options to dine at with kids but Cowfish will continue to make it to the top. Not only am I obsessed with their adult milkshakes and burgers, but the kids meals are perfect. Plus my kids love creating fish on the interactive screens and watching them swim around on the large restaurant monitors. Dinner shows are a fun dining experience to try at least once on your trip with the family. Again there are many to choose from in Orlando and we had a unique night of fun at the Medieval Times Tournament.
WHERE TO VISIT:
Besides the obvious attractions of Disney World, Universal and SeaWorld there are a number of fun things to do outside of theme parks. We had a great time experiencing all the attractions at I-Drive 360 like the SEA LIFE Aquarium, Orlando Eye and Madame Tussaud’s. Renting surrey bikes at Disney’s Boardwalk is a fun and active thing to do with the kids. The Orlando Science Center is a great interactive, hands-on museum for kids of all ages. And for the creative kids a visit to the Crayola Experience is a must!
A Couples Trip to Orlando
WHERE TO STAY:
The Gaylord Palms is more than a hotel it is an experience. The atrium is full of lush plants, waterfalls and lighted walkways to stroll. There a numerous dining options, full service spa and an adult pool that can create the perfect couples getaway without ever leaving the resort.
WHERE TO EAT:
Take a drive to the Ritz-Carlton to experience a delicious farm to table dinner at Highball & Harvest. If you want to stay on property then you are in luck because the Old Hickory Steakhouse at the Gaylord Palms will provide you with an amazing meal and exceptional service. The California Grill at the top of Disney’s Contemporary Resort is romantic, provides a spectacular view of the magic kingdom and serves top notch food.
WHERE TO VISIT:
You can knock off a popular bucket list item by taking a sunrise flight with Orlando Balloon Rides. This is a romantic and unique opportunity just a few miles away from the theme park capital. Enjoy a night of live art by becoming immersed into the experience at Drip.
Seeing Orlando as a Solo Traveler
WHERE TO STAY:
I highly recommend staying on I-Drive if you are visiting Orlando solo. This area of town is full of fun attractions, restaurants and shopping that you can easily walk to or take the I-Drive trolley system around. I love staying at boutique hotels when traveling solo; The Castle Hotel is my favorite boutique hotel in this area of Orlando and can provide a calm setting in the midst of this family destination.
WHERE TO EAT:
Anywhere on International Drive will give you a great atmosphere to meet new people, but Café Tu Tu Tango is perfect for the solo traveler because the tapas menu allows you to try a variety of delicious food while sitting at a funky bar in the middle of all the action of I-drive. Plus it is literally right behind the Castle Hotel.
WHERE TO VISIT:
Take an educational outdoor ride around the Grande Lakes property with the sunrise Eco Adventure Tour. Go see the Blue Man Group at Universal’s City Walk.
More Florida Travel Inspiration
If you are looking for more Florida Travel inspiration visit my Florida City Series page to learn about more places I have explored from top attractions, the best hotels and delicious restaurants throughout Florida.
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