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The best things to do in Orlando: A city full of surprises
If Orlando only makes you think of theme parks, you're in for a surprise. Beyond the parks, this Florida city is full of things to do: wander the brick-paved streets of Old Town Orlando, take in the greenery on a walk through Lake Eola Park, browse the boutiques of historic Thornton Park, or while away an afternoon admiring the works of art at the Orlando Museum of Art. An Orlando city break has a way of turning into far more than you planned.
Some of Orlando’s best hidden gems are the ones you stumble on yourself. Set out on a day exploring the city without an agenda and you'll soon find local cafés, quiet green corners, and a cultural scene that's very much alive. In the evening, head to the Ivanhoe Village Arts District, where galleries, bars, and independent theaters keep the energy going well past sunset. And when it comes to food, Orlando doesn't hold back, from food trucks and Southern comfort classics to some genuinely excellent international kitchens.
Discover the best things to see and do in Orlando and book your flight at discover-airlines.com.
What to know about sightseeing in Orlando
Sightseeing in Orlando rarely feels like ticking items off a checklist. As you make your way through the city's attractions, you'll find a thriving arts scene, lakeside parks, and classic Southern hospitality, often all in the same afternoon. Modern architecture rubs shoulders with historic districts like Old Town, and downtown you'll find street art, small galleries, and stage productions that reward a bit of spontaneous wandering. Venture a little further out and you'll come across smaller highlights too: green spaces and farmers markets that are among Orlando's best hidden gems.
Be sure to check out Orlando’s thriving music and festival scenes. Catch a jazz set at Lake Eola Park, wander into a food festival or stumble on a pop-up film screening. There’s always something happening here. If architecture is more your thing, tour the Spanish-style villas of the trendy Winter Park neighborhood, or see them from the water on a boat ride through its canals. Sustainability is part of the picture too, with a growing number of eco-friendly excursions and local goods now part of the mix.
Orlando's subtropical climate works in your favor no matter when you visit. Summers are usually warm and humid, perfect for lake days and long park afternoons. Even winter stays mild enough for comfortable walks and outdoor events. For the most comfortable weather for sightseeing, aim for fall through spring, though the off-season has its own appeal: most attractions run year-round with plenty to see whatever the forecast.
Top things to do in Orlando
Insider tips for your Orlando city break
A little planning goes a long way on an Orlando city break. English is the standard language across the city, but Orlando's international character means Spanish is common in restaurants and hotels too, and tourist information is often available in multiple languages.
Pack comfortable, weatherproof shoes for sightseeing in Orlando, especially for longer walks through spots like Leu Gardens or Old Town. A sun hat and sunscreen earn their keep year-round, since Florida's UV rays stay strong even in winter. And a lightweight rain jacket is worth throwing in your bag, particularly between June and September, when short, heavy showers can roll through without much warning.
Orlando's food scene has real range. Skip the hotel buffet and head for a local diner, a barbecue joint or a farm-to-table spot instead. Fried chicken, pulled pork and mac and cheese are the regional classics worth seeking out.
Credit cards are the default for payment in Orlando, whether you're at a museum, a café, or booking transportation. Cash still works but sees less everyday use. Many attractions also sell tickets online, which is worth doing during peak season so you can skip the line.
Book your Orlando city break now at discover-airlines.com and get ready to see it all for yourself!
January
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10°C/10°C
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February
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