Your First Trip

 

Planning your first trip to Orlando, Florida can be exciting but overwhelming because of the many attractions, theme parks, and entertainment options. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you have an unforgettable experience:

Step 1: Set Your Travel Dates

  • The best time to visit is January–April (fewer crowds and pleasant weather) or September–November (lower prices, fewer tourists, and Halloween-themed events).
  • Avoid peak seasons like summer (June–August) and Holidays (Christmas, New Year’s, and Spring Break).

Step 2: Choose Your Attractions

Orlando is home to world-famous theme parks, but there are also other great attractions. Decide what interests you most:

Theme Parks:

  1. Walt Disney World – (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom)
  2. Universal Orlando Resort – (Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay)
  3. SeaWorld Orlando – Marine life attractions and thrilling rides
  4. LEGOLAND Florida – Great for families with young kids

Other Attractions:

Enjoy your memorable days, this is me, in the enchanted world of Disney.

ICON Park – Home to The Wheel, Madame Tussauds, and restaurants

Kennedy Space Center (1-hour drive) – A must-visit for space lovers

Gatorland – A unique alligator-themed park

Orlando Science Center – Fun and interactive for all ages

Lake Eola Park – Relaxing escape in downtown Orlando

Step 3: Book Your Flights & Accommodation

Flights:

  • Fly into Orlando International Airport (MCO) or Sanford International Airport (SFB)

Hotels & Resorts:

  • Near Disney: Disney Resorts, Wyndham, Four Seasons Orlando
  • Near Universal: Loews Hotels, Hard Rock Hotel
  • Budget-Friendly: International Drive hotels, Airbnb options
  • Luxury Stays: Waldorf Astoria Orlando, Ritz-Carlton

 

Step 4: Plan Your Park Visits

  • Buy tickets in advance to save money and time.
  • Use Disney Genie+ (Disney) and Universal Express Pass to skip lines.
  • Check park hours and crowd calendars for the best days to visit.
  • Make dining reservations early (Disney & Universal restaurants fill up fast!).
  • Download park apps for ride wait times and mobile food ordering.

Step 5: Arrange Transportation

  • Renting a car is ideal if visiting attractions outside theme parks.
  • Shuttles & rideshares (Uber/Lyft) are available for hotel-to-park transfers.
  • I-Ride Trolley – A budget-friendly way to explore International Drive.
  • Disney & Universal provide free transportation between their parks and hotels.

Packing Essentials:

  • Comfortable shoes for long walks
  • Weather-appropriate clothing (light layers, ponchos for rain)
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Portable phone charger
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
  • Small backpack for park essentials

 Enjoy & Capture Memories!

  • Arrive early to beat the crowds.
  • Take breaks to avoid burnout.
  • Use PhotoPass or bring a good camera for great memories.
  • Try local food at Disney’s EPCOT, Universal’s CityWalk, or International Drive.