Orlando, FL

The world's theme park capital

Orlando is a magical city in the state of Florida. Home to Cinderella's castle at Walt Disney World, it's full of things to do beyond the parks too — whether you're traveling solo, with kids, as a foodie, a luxury shopper, or an outdoor adventurer, Orlando knows how to treat you well.

Orlando is the county seat of Orange County and the center of the Orlando metropolitan area — nicknamed "the City Beautiful," with a metro population of over 2.5 million that ranks it among the largest metro areas in the Southern US.

Orlando is one of the most-visited cities in the world, drawing 75 million-plus tourists a year — from music festivals and science programs to student trips and bowl games.

Top theme parks to visit

Disney's Magic Kingdom, anchored by the iconic Cinderella's Castle, is amazing for kids and grown-ups alike — don't miss Fantasyland, Liberty Square, Frontierland, Adventureland, and Tomorrowland.

Universal's Islands of Adventure packs thrill rides and immersive lands into one park — a must for anyone chasing the biggest coasters and themed worlds Orlando has to offer.

Epcot, recognizable by the giant golf-ball-like Spaceship Earth, hosts special events like the International Food & Wine Festival and the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, centered on Future World and World Showcase.

Universal Studios Florida is the gateway to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, plus a nighttime lagoon show, World Expo, and Woody Woodpecker's KidZone.

Disney's Animal Kingdom is a zoological theme park with over 4 million trees, shrubs, and plants from around the globe — highlights include Discovery Island, Pandora – The World of Avatar, and DinoLand U.S.A.

More to explore

Shopping ranges from budget-friendly to high-end luxury at malls like the Florida Mall, Mall of Millennia, and Orlando Premium Outlets International Drive. For a beach day, Cocoa Beach, Daytona Beach, and New Smyrna Beach are all within about half an hour to an hour's drive. And when it's time to eat, CityWalk at Universal Orlando Resort and Disney Springs at Walt Disney World are packed with options for every taste.

Other attractions

Beyond the theme parks, Orlando has water parks like Disney's Typhoon Lagoon and Disney's Blizzard Beach, sports at Disney's Grand Floridian golf course and ESPN Wide World of Sports, and indoor stops like Madame Tussauds and SeaLife. For nightlife, CityWalk at Universal Orlando Resort is one of the best spots to grab a drink among its many bars.

Popular seasonal events

Orlando tops the list when it comes to sporting events, festivals, cultural happenings, and theme park celebrations.

Top holiday events include Holidays at Walt Disney World, the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony & Winter on the Avenue, SeaWorld Orlando's Christmas Celebration, the Mount Dora Lighted Boat Parade, and Santa's Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops.

Sports events include the Citrus Bowl, the Florida Blue Florida Classic, the Cheez-It Bowl, Bulls at Magic, and the Monster Energy Supercross Fan Fest Pass.

Music events include the Winter Wave Festival, A Right on Key Christmas, VIP Music Fest, and Coast2Coast Live, among others.

Top hotels for your next Orlando stay

Universal's Hard Rock® Hotel sits on Universal Blvd with a laid-back luxurious style, a palm-lined pool with underwater music, free high-speed Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and pet-friendly rooms. The top three nearby attractions are Hollywood Drive-in Golf, Universal Studios Florida, and Universal CityWalk.

The Florida Hotel and Conference Center is located at The Florida Mall, with a pool, free high-speed Wi-Fi, a fitness center, conference facilities, and allergy-free rooms. The top three nearby attractions are The Florida Mall, M&M'S World Orlando, and American Girl Orlando.

Holiday Inn Club Vacations at Orange Lake Resort sits next to Disney's Animal Kingdom and Walt Disney World® Resort, with indoor and outdoor pools, free high-speed Wi-Fi, a workout room, and pet-friendly rooms at a more affordable rate. The top three nearby attractions are Universal Studios Florida, Blue Man Group, and Universal CityWalk.