Your Next Trip TRAVEL GUIDE
Orlando
When you think Orlando, theme parks probably come to mind first. But beyond the roller coasters lies a city of lakes, flavor, art, and rocket fuel. This guide highlights what to do, where to stay, and where to eat—three top picks in each category, selected from the script and enhanced with additional local gems.
Now, check out our recommendations featured in this episode and more!
What to do
Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour
A peaceful, narrated cruise through narrow canals that link a chain of lakes. You’ll float past cypress trees, herons, and historic estates.
Address: 312 E Morse Blvd, Winter Park, FL 32789
Hours: Daily; tours depart throughout the day (check schedule)
Cost: Adults $16, Children $8 (subject to change)
Website: scenicboattours.com
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex & Behind the Gates Bus Tour
Dive into America’s space program. Visit Apollo launchpads, see rockets, meet astronauts, and ride simulators. The Behind the Gates bus tour takes you deeper into NASA’s historic sites.
Address: 615 NASA Pkwy, Merritt Island, FL 32953
Hours: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Cost: Admission from $69 (Behind the Gates tour extra)
Website: kennedyspacecenter
Dezerland Park Orlando
A massive indoor playground for all ages. Car museums, movie props, bowling alleys, arcade games, go-karts, and more—great backup for rainy days or hot afternoons.
Address: 5250 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819
Hours: Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–midnight
Cost: Prices vary by attraction ($20–$50 typical)
Website: dezerlandpark
Lonely Dog Immersive Experience
Step into a 360-degree digital art show blending original paintings, animation, and music. The whimsical story of Lonely Dog comes alive around you.
Address: 4950 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819
Hours: Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
Cost: Adults $29.99
Website: lonelydogorlando
Chocolate Kingdom (Factory Adventure Tour)
Walk through a bean-to-bar interactive chocolate factory. Tour includes a cacao greenhouse, a chocolate museum, a “river of chocolate,” plus the chance to create your own custom bar.
Address: 9901 Hawaiian Ct, Orlando, FL 32819
Hours: Tours run hourly 12–4 p.m. daily
Cost: Adults $24, Kids $20
Website: chocolatekingdom
My Beer Spa Orlando
Unwind in a private room soaking in a hop-infused tub, complete with sauna, hay lounge, and a self-serve beer tap. A spa experience with a craft beer twist.
Address: 11787 International Dr, Ste 106, Orlando, FL 32821
Hours: 11:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m. (check schedule)
Cost: Private room packages from $129 (single) or $189 (couple)
Website: mybeerspa.com
Where to stay
The Alfond Inn (Winter Park)
Boutique hotel perched on Rollins College grounds. Profits support student scholarships. Elegant, art-forward design and a boutique spa.
Address: 300 E New England Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
Website: thealfondinn
Four Seasons Resort Orlando
Upscale resort inside Walt Disney World grounds. Spa, multiple pools, golf course, and award-winning restaurants including Michelin-starred Capa.
Address: 10100 Dream Tree Blvd, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32836
Website: fourseasons – orlando
Lake Nona Wave Hotel
A modern luxury hotel with striking architecture, high-tech rooms, and curated art. Known for its rooftop pool deck and dining scene.
Address: 6100 Wave Hotel Dr, Orlando, FL 32827
Website: lakenonawavehotel
And there’s tons of other fabulous places to stay during your trip.
Check out the best accommodation deals below.
What to eat
AVA MediterrAegean
Sleek Mediterranean restaurant serving Greek-inspired dishes in a chic lounge setting. Known for shared plates and upscale vibe.
Address: 290 S Park Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
Hours: Mon–Thu 5–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 5–11 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.–10 p.m.
Cost: $$–$$$
Website: avamediterraegean.com
Capa – Four Seasons
Spanish-influenced rooftop steakhouse with wood-fired grill, seafood, tapas, and a Michelin star. Sweeping views of the skyline from the 17th floor.
Address: Four Seasons Orlando, 10100 Dream Tree Blvd, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32836
Hours: Dinner nightly from 6 p.m.
Cost: $$$$
Website: fourseasons.com/orlando/dining/restaurants/capa
Soseki Modern Omakase
Winter Park’s first Michelin-starred omakase. An intimate 10-seat dining room with a seasonal tasting menu and inventive pairings. Reservations required.
Address: 955 W Fairbanks Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
Hours: Dinner only (Wed–Sun)
Cost: $$$$
Website: sosekifl.com
Domu
Michelin-recommended ramen spot with house-made noodles and bold, Instagram-worthy cocktails.
Address: 3201 Corrine Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
Website: domufl.com
K-bob Korean Street Food
Orlando’s first Korean street-food restaurant, opened by a 19-year-old and Michelin-recommended. Skewers, rice cakes, and crispy fried bites.
Address: 7615 Turkey Lake Rd, Orlando, FL 32819
Website: instagram.com/kbobkoreanstreetfood
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
Orlando is a year-round destination, but the best months are March–May and October–December. You’ll find comfortable temperatures, lighter humidity, and fewer afternoon storms than in the peak summer season. Winter holidays draw big crowds, while spring and fall offer more affordable rates and easier reservations.
Getting Around
A car is the most convenient way to get around Orlando, as attractions and neighborhoods are spread out.
Rental cars are widely available at Orlando International Airport (MCO).
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate throughout the city.
Lynx, the local bus system, covers major routes but is less convenient for visitors on tight schedules.
Brightline now connects Orlando to South Florida by train, making day trips possible without driving.Safety Tips
Stay hydrated and use sun protection—Florida’s heat and humidity can be intense, even outside of summer.
Afternoon thunderstorms are common from June to September; keep a poncho or umbrella handy.
In tourist-heavy areas, watch belongings and avoid leaving valuables in parked cars.Helpful Notes
Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD) Tipping: 18–20% is standard at restaurants.
Weather: Summer highs regularly exceed 90°F (32°C) with high humidity.
Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST)
Plug Type: A/B
Voltage: 120V
Frequency: 60Hz
Packing list
Here’s our suggested items to pack for this destination. Please always consider the weather and activities you will be doing.
Orlando’s subtropical climate and diverse mix of experiences—from boat tours to Michelin dining to space exploration—mean you’ll want a balance of comfort, practicality, and style.
Clothing
Lightweight, breathable outfits (cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics)
A light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings and indoor A/C
Casual clothes for sightseeing and attractions
Dressier attire for Michelin-star dining and nightlife lounges
Comfortable swimwear for pools or spas
Footwear
Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers for tours and museums
Sandals or water-friendly shoes for lake tours or hot days
Dress shoes or stylish flats for upscale restaurants
Essentials
Sun protection: sunscreen (SPF 30+), sunglasses, wide-brim hat
Refillable water bottle to stay hydrated in the heat
Compact rain jacket or poncho (afternoon storms are common)
Small backpack or crossbody bag for day trips and attractions
Specialty Items
Camera or smartphone with plenty of storage for photos at Kennedy Space Center and immersive art shows
Portable charger/power bank
Insect repellent for outdoor and lakeside activities
Reusable shopping tote for East End Market or local boutiques
Travel Documents & Extras
Valid ID or passport (if required for flights)
Credit/debit cards (widely accepted)
Printed or digital reservations for restaurants and tours
Get a full packing list and free downloadable template at Pack Better.
Ultimate Packing List Library
Find the perfect customizable packing list for all of your travel situations on our sister website Pack Better.
This episode of "Your Next Trip" explored the ancestral lands of
We extend our respect and gratitude to the Indigenous communities who have been the stewards of these lands for generations. Research for this acknowledgment was made possible using the NativeLand.ca.
Learn more about responsible travel practices in the TWD Responsible Travel Guide.
Visit the guideTrip provided by: Visit Orlando
Director of Photography: Jesse Todd
Special Thanks:
Gabriella Cervantes, Gabriella McNamara
