Airport: MCO • International

Top 10 Things to Do in Orlando

Florida, USA Flag Florida, USA

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DTW → MCO

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The ultimate global entertainment and family vacation capital, famous for world-leading theme parks, warm subtropical sunshine, and thriving lakefront communities.

Airport Transit Info ↓
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Trip Planning Essentials

Best Season to Visit October to April (milder temperatures and lower humidity)
Primary Commercial Airport MCO • Florida, USA

Airport Transit & Ground Logistics Guide

Getting from MCO to the city center and major attractions

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is ~20 minutes from International Drive and ~35 minutes from Disney via toll roads (SR 528 / SR 417). Brightline train connects MCO to Miami in 3.5 hours.

Curated Top 10 Attractions in Orlando

Ranked by traveler popularity, uniqueness, and seasonal appeal.

#1

Walt Disney World Resort

Theme Parks

Four world-renowned theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom) delivering legendary storytelling, thrilling rides, and nightly fireworks spectacles.

Insider Tip: Reserve dining 60 days in advance and use the Lightning Lane system to skip peak midday ride wait times.
#2

Universal Orlando Resort

Theme Parks

Immerse yourself in cinematic adventures at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, featuring the groundbreaking Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Insider Tip: A park-to-park ticket is required to ride the Hogwarts Express between Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade.
#3

SeaWorld & Discovery Cove

Marine & Wildlife

Experience exhilarating marine roller coasters alongside unforgettable dolphin swims, coral reef snorkeling, and tropical bird sanctuaries.

Insider Tip: Discovery Cove tickets are all-inclusive (food, drinks, wetsuits, and gear) and cap daily attendance for a tranquil atmosphere.
#4

Scenic Winter Park Boat Tour

Nature & Leisure

Glide through narrow, centuries-old canals and picturesque freshwater lakes lined with grand estates and lush subtropical foliage.

Insider Tip: Tours depart hourly on the hour from Morse Boulevard; bring cash for tickets and sunscreen for the open pontoon boat.
#5

Lake Eola Park in Downtown

Parks & Culture

A serene downtown oasis centered around an iconic fountain, offering swan paddleboat rentals, weekend farmers markets, and skyline views.

Insider Tip: Visit Sunday morning for the bustling Orlando Farmers Market featuring fresh local produce, artisanal crafts, and street eats.
#6

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Science & Space

Located just 45 minutes east, experience historic launch sites, the awe-inspiring Space Shuttle Atlantis, and interactive astronaut simulators.

Insider Tip: Check the rocket launch schedule beforehand to align your visit with an active commercial or NASA liftoff.
#7

Icon Park & The Wheel

Entertainment

International Drive dining and entertainment complex anchored by a 400-foot observation wheel providing 360-degree Central Florida views.

Insider Tip: Ride The Wheel at sunset to watch the twilight skyline transition into glittering city lights.
#8

Wekiwa Springs State Park

Outdoors & Springs

Crystal-clear 72-degree natural freshwater springs perfect for swimming, canoeing, and spotting river otters and tropical wading birds.

Insider Tip: Arrive before 9:00 AM on weekends because the park entrance frequently closes when capacity is reached.
#9

Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art

Arts & Culture

Houses the worlds most comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, including mesmerizing stained glass windows and jewelry.

Insider Tip: The museum offers free admission on select Friday evenings from November through April.
#10

Disney Springs Dining & Shopping

Dining & Nightlife

A lively waterfront promenade boasting Michelin-pedigree celebrity chef restaurants, boutique shopping, live music, and amphitheater performances.

Insider Tip: Parking in all Disney Springs garages is completely free; no admission ticket needed to explore and dine.