First Time in Orlando: The Ultimate Beginners Guide from an Expert

Welcome to Orlando, a place where dreams and adventures meet. If you’re planning your first time in Orlando, you’re in for a treat. Whilst it’s quite a busy holiday (and definitely not what I would consider a ‘relaxing’ holiday), it’s also a thrilling one. As someone who’s been to Orlando over 25 times, I’m here to share the all of the insider tips that’ll turn your trip from good to totally unforgettable. Let’s dive into the ultimate guide to making the most out of your first time in Orlando.

I’ve also created a basic itinerary to follow to make sure you see EVERYTHING during your first time in Orlando, so keep reading.

What You Need to Know Before Travelling to Orlando

Weather: It’s Florida, so pack for the heat and humidity. But don’t forget, rain showers are a common cameo, so a poncho or umbrella should be a staple in your bag.

Crowds: During your first time in Orlando, expect large crowds around major holidays and summer months. Visiting during the spring or fall might give you a more relaxed experience and better deals.

Transportation: The freedom of a rental car is unmatched, but for those who’d rather not drive, Uber and Lyft are good alternatives, but can get expensive if you are using them every single day. Just remember, public transportation isn’t Orlando’s strongest suit.

Theme Park Tickets: Plan ahead. Snag those tickets online in advance to save some bucks and skip the long lines. If you’re in for a longer stay, multi-day passes are your best friend during your first time in Orlando.

Picking the Best Time to Visit Orlando

What is the best month to go to Orlando? Well, it depends. In my personal experience, the summer holidays are the busiest and most expensive in terms of flights, but if you have children you will probably have to work around school. However, when I was younger we mostly went during half terms in October or Easter Holidays in March/April to beat the summer heat, prices and crowds.

Weather-wise, April, May, October, and November are your best bets. You’ll enjoy comfortable temperatures and thinner crowds during your first time in Orlando. December is magical with Christmas decor but expect the theme parks to be very busy – everyone wants to see Christmas decs.

If your budget is super tight, consider January or September. It is significantly colder in January, but if you love cheap flights and little to no queues in the theme parks, this month is your best bet.

In terms of flight prices, I’ve broken down how to find the cheapest flights to Orlando from the UK in this blog post, with some insider flight-finding tips for those savvy enough.

First Time in Orlando Budgeting Tips

Orlando can be expensive. I definitely would not class Orlando as a budget holiday destination, so you’re probably wondering how much spending money do you need per day in Orlando? Below is a breakdown of the main expenses per day, if you also want to do things like shopping and other excursions then you’ll need to bump up that daily budget.

Theme Parks: They’re the main event, but will also be the main expense. Park tickets, food, and those tempting souvenirs can add up quickly. Set aside at least $100-150 per person per day to cover theme parks during your first time in Orlando. Sadly there isn’t much you can do about the cost of theme park tickets, unless there is a deal or discount on. Maximise your budget by not buying food in the theme parks (more on this below) and sharing taxis (parking at the theme parks can cost upwards of $30 a day).

Accommodation: Options range from budget-friendly hotels starting at around $50 to luxurious resorts that can go upwards of $500. Choose what fits your budget and style during your first time in Orlando. Most people usually either stay on-site in Walt Disney World or on International Drive – you can read my guide to whether you should stay in Disney Hotels or International drive here.

Food: Orlando’s culinary scene won’t disappoint. Casual diners can expect to spend about $30-50 per person per day. If fine dining is on the menu, budget more. When it comes to food, the theme parks will be the worst hit on your budget. Food in Walt Disney World and Universal Parks is notoriously expensive for very little and low quality. On your first day, do a small grocery shop at Publix or Walmart and get your essentials for breakfast and lunch so you can eat during those long days in the theme parks without breaking the bank.

What to Do in Orlando for the First Time

Let’s jump into what you’re probably most excited about: discovering all the amazing things to do in Orlando, especially if its your first time in Orlando. Sure, it’s famous for its world-class theme parks, and rightly so—it’s the theme park capital of the world afterall! But there’s more to the area than thrilling rides. Orlando is also a hotspot for top-tier shopping, diverse dining, and some beautiful nature like the Everglades.

Theme Parks: They’re the heart and soul of Orlando. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a fairy tale dreamer, there’s a park for you. Walt Disney World’s magic spans multiple parks, each with its own theme. Universal Orlando caters to the movie buffs and adrenaline junkies, while SeaWorld offers a splash of oceanic adventures. And for the little ones (or the young at heart), Legoland is a fun day out. Keep reading to see my 14-day itinerary for Orlando which sees you hitting all of the key theme parks, with days to spare.

Beyond Theme Parks: Your first time in Orlando isn’t just about roller coasters and character parade. Visit the Kennedy Space Center for a day of space exploration. Enjoy the stunning Atlantic coast at Daytona, Clearwater, or Cocoa Beach. Experience the natural beauty of the Everglades on an airboat tour. For a different view, try a hot air balloon ride and see Orlando from above.

Shopping & Dining: Orlando is a shopper’s paradise. Find big brands at great prices at Premium Outlets. The Florida Mall offers a wide range of stores to suit all tastes. For unique shopping and dining experiences, Disney Springs and Universal’s CityWalk are the places to be. Each offers a mix of themed entertainment, shopping, and dining. I recommend the House of Blues in Disney Springs for live music and great food. If you love Hurricane cocktails and live piano, head to Pat o Briens at City Walk to witness the amazing duelling pianos. If you tip them they will play any song (and I mean any. I once saw them play Chocolate Salty Balls from South Park completely by ear).

Is There a Main Strip in Orlando?

Whilst I wouldn’t call it a ‘main strip’, International Drive is where most of the action is. Hotels, dinings, shops, and attractions line this bustling strip. It’s convenient and lively, but if you’re after a more authentic local vibe, explore areas like Downtown Orlando, Winter Park, or Baldwin Park during your first time in Orlando.

For your first time in Orlando, I would reccomend staying on International Drive for the convenience. This is especially true if you’re planning on visiting more than the just the Disney Parks. If Walt Disney World is your maib objective for your first time in Orlando, then I’d recommend looking into staying in one of the Disney Hotels. Staying on site can give you a huge amount of Disney perks, if that’s what you’re looking for.

Bonus Tip: The Visit Orlando app is a handy companion for maps, schedules, and tips to navigate the city like a pro, especially during your first time in Orlando.

You can read my breakdown of whether you should stay in Disney Hotels or International Drive in this blog. 

How Many Days Do You Need in Orlando

Theme Parks: If theme parks are your main jam, allocate at least 10 days to hit all the main parks. Theme park aficionados, you might want to reserve two weeks to cover its vast empire during your first time in Orlando.

Balanced Trip: Mixing theme parks with other attractions? A 7 day trip could be the sweet spot, giving you enough time to hit up some of the parks and the  check out the city’s other gems while there.

City Explorers: If roller coasters just aren’t your thing, 4-5 days will let you hit Orlando’s cultural and natural highlights, with some time for a day trip or two during your first time in Orlando.

What Are The Best Parks to Visit in Orlando?

When you’re planning your first time in Orlando, choosing the right theme parks can be a big decision. With over 18 parks, it’s impossible to see them all in a typical 14-day holiday. Here’s a straightforward look at the main parks and what they offer:

Magic Kingdom

Magic Kingdom is known for its iconic attractions like Cinderella’s Castle and family-friendly rides. It’s great for all ages with areas like Adventureland and Fantasyland. However, it’s usually crowded, especially in peak seasons, and might not have enough thrill rides for some. Also, the busy environment can be a lot for young children.

Epcot

Epcot offers a cultural journey with pavilions from around the world and educational exhibits. It’s known for hosting festivals like the World Showcase. However, young children might find it less appealing due to fewer rides for them. The park is spread out, requiring more walking, and ongoing renovations may affect some areas.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios is great for thrill rides like Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, and has an immersive Star Wars area. It also offers a variety of shows. But, it has fewer attractions for young children and doesn’t focus as much on classic Disney themes.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom offers unique experiences like Kilimanjaro Safaris and emphasizes conservation. It has an immersive Avatar-themed area. However, it has fewer thrill rides and the attractions are spread out. Not everyone may find the animal exhibits exciting.

Disney’s Water Parks – Blizzard Beach & Typhoon Lagoon

Blizzard Beach has fast slides like Summit Plummet and family areas, while Typhoon Lagoon features a variety of slides and a large wave pool with a tropical theme. Both have relaxing spots for all ages. However, Blizzard Beach’s intense theme and limited shade may not suit everyone, and it’s only open seasonally. Typhoon Lagoon has fewer thrill rides, can get crowded, and is closed for refurbishment until March 12, 2024.

Universal Studios Florida & Islands of Adventure:

Universal Studios has thrilling rides like Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, movie-themed areas, and interactive shows. Islands of Adventure features diverse themed lands, various rides, and live shows, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in both parks. However, Universal Studios may not have many attractions for young children, can get crowded, and has fewer water rides. Islands of Adventure involves more walking, some areas may be too intense for young kids, and it also has limited water ride options.

Volcano Bay:

Volcano Bay is a Polynesian-themed water park with a variety of rides for all ages and thrill levels. It also offers TapuTapu wearables for virtual queueing. However, it requires a separate ticket, has limited shade and can get very crowded.

In my experience, for a balanced mix of rides and character experiences, consider visiting Epcot, Magic Kingdom, Universal Studios, and Islands of Adventure. These parks offer a good mix of attractions to ensure a memorable first visit.

Other theme parks

Legoland Florida is great for kids with its LEGO-themed rides and water park, but may not excite an older crowd. Gatorland offers a close-up look at alligators and is affordable, but it’s not ride-focused, so keep this in mind.

SeaWorld Orlando combines marine animal shows with some thrill rides, though it can be pricey and has received a lot of ethical criticisms. SeaWorld is a good budget option if you are looking to save some money. Aquatica Orlando is all about water fun and is a good choice if you’re already at SeaWorld, but it’s mainly for water ride fans.

Discovery Cove also provides an exclusive experience with animal interactions and is all-inclusive, but it’s the most expensive and may not be ideal for very young kids. Your choice depends on whether you prefer family-friendly attractions, thrill rides, animal experiences, or budget-friendly options.

Maximising Your Theme Park Experience

Once you’ve chosen your ideal theme parks for your first time in Orlando, here are some bonus tips to ensure you see much as possible in the parks with minimal stress.

Choose Wisely: Research is key. Pick the parks that align with your group’s interests and budget during your first time in Orlando.
Smart Ticketing: Compare ticket options on park websites. Look for multi-day deals or special offers. Websites like Undercover Tourist are good for finding Disney deals.
FastPass/Express Pass: Worth considering if you hate long lines. Prioritise the most popular rides during your first time in Orlando. You can buy an express pass for cutting queue times in Universal Orlando parks, however Disney parks require more of a strategy. Genie+ at Walt Disney World offers a paid skip-the-line option for select rides and shows via the My Disney Experience app, providing more access and time savings than the free Genie service.
Stay Strategically: Location matters. Pick a hotel near your favourite parks and/or one with good transport links. Onsite hotel perks can be a game-changer during your first time in Orlando. If you stay in Disney Hotels you’ll get more Disney perks, likewise for Universal Hotels like the Hard Rock Hotel.
Park Apps are Gold: Real-time wait times, dining reservations, and more, right at your fingertips during your first time in Orlando.
Early Birds Get the Rides: Arriving early means fewer lines and more fun during your first visit. This is especially true for Animal Kingdom, Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios where lines can get long for the most popular rides.

14 Day Florida Theme Park Plan

After selecting the best parks for your first time in Orlando and learning how to make the most of each visit, it’s time to put it all into action. This 14-day itinerary blends thrilling park adventures with relaxing breaks, ensuring a well-rounded first time in Florida. Follow this guide to enjoy a memorable journey through Orlando’s theme parks offerings, from the moment you arrive to the moment you leave.

Day 1: Arrival and Settling In

Arrive in Orlando, check into your hotel, and take some time to unwind. Do a bit of grocery shopping to stock up on essentials and spend the evening getting familiar with your surroundings.

Day 2: Magic Kingdom

Dive into the enchantment at Magic Kingdom. Aim to arrive by 8 am to make the most of your day. Explore iconic attractions, enjoy the parades, and don’t miss the “Happily Ever After” fireworks display. Utilize the My Disney Experience app for fast pass access and to keep track of all your Disney photos.

Day 3: Pool and Shopping Day

After a full day at Magic Kingdom, enjoy a slower pace. Relax by the hotel pool and later, visit the Florida Mall or Premium Outlets for some shopping therapy.

Day 4: EPCOT

Discover the wonders of EPCOT. From futuristic rides to the cultural marvels at the World Showcase, there’s much to explore. If you visit in October, savor the delights at the Food and Wine Festival.

Day 5: Hollywood Studios

Step into the world of movies at Hollywood Studios. Enjoy thrilling rides, live shows, and get a chance to meet your favorite characters. It’s a perfect day for fans of Star Wars and those interested in Disney’s backstage magic.

Day 6: Typhoon Lagoon

Take a break from the thrill rides and enjoy a day at Typhoon Lagoon. Float down the lazy river, brave the waterslides, or just relax in the wave pool. In the late afternoon and evening, stroll through Disney Springs, shop, and dine.

Day 7: Animal Kingdom

Start early for Animal Kingdom’s Rope Drop, especially to beat the lines for Pandora – The World of Avatar. Enjoy a day filled with wild adventures, safaris, and thrilling rides. Since there’s no nighttime show, it’s a good opportunity to visit Disney Springs or have an early night.

Day 8: Universal Studios

Get ready for action-packed adventures at Universal Studios. Experience the excitement of your favorite movies through thrilling rides and attractions. Make sure to visit Diagon Alley and enjoy a meal at Krusty Burger.

Day 9: Islands of Adventure

Continue the excitement at Islands of Adventure. Face the Marvel superheroes on thrilling coasters, explore Hogwarts and Jurassic Park. If you have a park hopper ticket, ride the Hogwarts Express between the parks. Wrap up your day at CityWalk, perhaps dining at Margaritaville and enjoying live music at Pat O’Brien’s.

Day 10: Free Day

This day is yours! Revisit your favorite theme park, explore a new attraction, or simply enjoy a day of relaxation at your hotel.

Day 11: Volcano Bay or Blizzard Beach

Choose between Universal’s Volcano Bay and Disney’s Blizzard Beach for another splash-filled day. Both offer unique water park experiences, from tropical landscapes to frosty slopes.

Day 12: Free Day

Consider a day trip to one of Florida’s stunning beaches like Clearwater, Daytona, or Coco Beach. Experience the sun, sand, and surf of Florida’s famed Atlantic coast. If you’re still itching for another theme park day, consider using this day for a more chilled out theme park like SeaWorld or Gatorland – highly recommend trying Alligator at least once.

Day 13: Disney World Again

Use this day to return to any Disney parks where you’d like to revisit your favorite attractions or catch any that you missed the first time around.

Day 14: Relaxation & Last-Minute Shopping

Spend your last day in Orlando relaxing by the pool and enjoying the hotel amenities. It’s also a great chance for any last-minute shopping or revisiting favorite spots in the city.

Day 15: Departure Day

As your journey comes to an end, pack up your memories along with your belongings and prepare for your journey home, taking a piece of Orlando magic with you.

This itinerary is designed to be built upon to meet your needs of the holiday. Feel free to add in anything you are desperate to do or see. Make sure to bookmark the page to come back to, or save on Pinterest so you don’t lose it. 👇

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Wrapping Up Your First Time in Orlando

Orlando is more than just a city of theme parks. It’s a place where every corner holds the promise of a new adventure or a new discovery. From the thrill of the roller coasters to the tranquility of the parks, the vibrancy of International Drive, and the charm of local neighborhoods, your first time in Orlando is sure to be filled with memorable moments. Here’s to an incredible first trip to a place where you’ll never be bored.

With these insights and tips, you’re well-equipped to navigate your first time in Orlando like a seasoned traveller. Your adventure awaits in this dynamic city where every visit promises something new and exciting.