Islands of Adventure is the second theme park that makes up the Universal Studios Orlando Resort. Its situated right next to Universal Studios Florida, and is even connected to that park internally courtesy of the Hogwarts Express. Opened in 1999, Universal’s Islands of Adventure is …
Universal Studios Florida is the original theme park which, along with Islands of Adventure next door, comprise the Universal Orlando Resort. The park is packed with high thrill attractions, exciting shows and some of the best experiences in Central Florida. Considering the park is right …
Orlando. How I love you Orlando. This city in Central Florida may have started out as a sleepy provincial town, but its now the most popular tourist destination in the United States of America (it first surpassed New York in that category in 2014). If you know anything about Orlando, I’m sure you know the reason for its exponential boom as America’s tourist capital – theme parks. Its one of my favourite places in the United States, and I’ll never turn down a trip to Orlando. There’s lots to know when planning a trip to Orlando. A week is a good amount of time to spend. In this post I’m going to give you an overview of some of the best things to do.
Don’t worry – there’s going to be plenty more Orlando content on the site to come. For now, lets introduce you to the most fun filled city on earth. I truly do love you, Orlando.
This section could really be headed “when to visit Florida”. If you’re planning a trip to the Sunshine State, the one thing to be aware of is hurricane season. Technically, hurricane season runs from June to early November. With that said, I’ve been to Florida in the middle of summer and had no problems at all. The time of year that you really need to be careful with planning a trip is in September and October, as this tends to be the peak of the season.
If you’re planning to hit up all the theme parks (and lets face it, you definitely are), you should try to avoid busy times of year like Spring Break and School Holidays. If its the only time of year you can get to Orlando, you should still do it, but just bear in mind that things will be more crowded than usual (and probably more expensive).
Florida gets really hot and humid during the summer (we’re talking 30s Celsius). You can also expect at least an hour of rain (sometimes more) in the late afternoon/early evening pretty much every day at this time of year. Personally, I’m not phased by the heat and really enjoy summer in Florida – just stay hydrated and apply that sunscreen. Conventionally though, the best time to visit Orlando tends to be from March to May, when its not as hot and crowds are more manageable.
As the major tourist hub that it is, it should come as no surprise that getting to Orlando is extremely easy. Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the largest airports in the United States and sees direct flights from all major cities across the country, as well as a series of international flights from Europe, Canada, Latin America and the Caribbean. The airport is huge, but also really easy to navigate. It is quite spread out though, and you’ll have to board the MCO People Mover to transfer between terminals, so keep that in mind when flying out and give yourself plenty of time.
MCO Airport is about 20 kilometres east of Downtown Orlando and International Drive (the main tourist hub). Its about 40 kilometres from Walt Disney World. There’s various shuttles that can get you from the airport to your resort. One of the most well known is Mears Transportation (which used to run the no longer operating Magical Express shuttle to Walt Disney World). Rates vary depending on where you’re going, but in general you can expect to pay around $15 – $30 per person.
I tend to use Uber to get into Orlando from MCO. Its more expensive, but really efficient. Depending on traffic, you can be at your hotel within 30 minutes.
If you’re travelling internationally to the United States, make sure you check your travel requirements. You’ll need a passport and probably either an ESTA or visa. Do your research well before leaving, and if you need to get an ESTA, apply on the official website.
If you’ll be doing all the Disney theme parks during your stay in Orlando, I really recommend staying at a Disney resort on the Disney World property. There’s so much to know about Disney World, so I’m going to cover that in a separate post. For now, just know that there’s various priced options depending on what you’re after (though even the cheapest Disney resorts will be more expensive than what you can find away from “the World”).
Assuming you’re staying in Orlando itself, I feel the best area to base yourself is International Drive. This is Orlando’s ultimate tourist district. Its filled with resorts, bars, restaurants and a whole gambit of attractions. No matter what you’re into, you’ll be able to find something to do on International Drive. If you’re looking for an affordable option in the area, I recommend staying at the Avanti International Resort. I’ve stayed here quite a few times when I’ve been in Orlando. Its a family friendly resort which is conveniently located and has a great swimming pool, as well as a fully stocked bar, cafe, games room and fitness centre. The rooms contain all the basic amenities, including coffee makers, mini-fridges and microwaves.
I personally think one of the best ways to do Orlando is to spend part of your trip in International Drive, and then stay at a Disney resort for the time that you intend to spend at Walt Disney World.
Generally speaking, you can expect to pay the following per night for a (non-Disney) double room in high season in Orlando:
You’ll be spending most of your time in Orlando at theme parks. That means you’ll be doing lots of walking. I think every time I go to Orlando I set a new record for my amount of steps taken in a day! As far as getting between the Disney theme parks, there’s plenty of options. I’ll cover Walt Disney World itself separately in another post.
When it comes to Orlando itself, there’s no really efficient public transport system. Most hotels will offer shuttle services, though I tend to use Uber a lot in this city. Its just super convenient.
International Drive itself is fairly walkable, though the I-Ride Trolley does get you from one end of the tourist strip to the other and everywhere between. It even goes up to Universal Boulevard, which as you can guess is the site of the Universal Studios parks. It operates daily from 8.00am to 10.30pm.
Theme parks, theme parks and more theme parks. That’s how you’ll be spending most of your time in Orlando. Between Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, there’s 6 major parks in total (and that’s just dealing with those two resorts). While there’s others like SeaWorld, you can see that you’ll need more than a week in Orlando to get through those. Here’s the places I recommend you visit on a week’s trip to Orlando (especially if its your first time here).
As the largest collection of theme parks in the world, people come to Orlando to visit Walt Disney World. Its actually located in nearby Lake Buena Vista, and is a massive 40 square mile region with its own postcode. Disney World contains a plethora of resorts, theme parks, water parks, restaurants and other attractions, all run by the Walt Disney Company. I plan to write a lot more about Disney World in the future, but for now, you should know there are 4 full scale theme parks, all of which take up at least a day (if not more) to explore.
When people think of Disney World, they normally mean the Magic Kingdom park. Opened in 1971, this is the traditional castle style theme park which attracts the most visitors of any theme park globally. Its based heavily on the original Disneyland in Anaheim, but is much bigger. Its where you’ll find the classic Disney rides, meet all your favourite Disney characters and see the incomparable parades and firework displays. If you’re here for the highlights, you can squeeze them into one (very busy) day, but for a comprehensive tour of the park, you’ll need at least two days to do everything.
EPCOT was the second theme park to open at Disney World and is my personal favourite of the bunch. Its different to traditional theme parks in that its not as ride dependent as the others. The front of the park (currently Future World, but in the process of being rebranded) is filled with an assortment of pavilions devoted to educational concepts, though more and more thrill rides have opened over the years), while the World Showcase is an amazing permanent world fair, in which 11 countries are represented by permanent immersive pavilions, filled with local cuisine, shopping and cultural displays.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios is the park for thrill ride enthusiasts. It draws its main theming from the bright lights of old Hollywood, complete with its own Chinese Theatre and Sunset Boulevard. More recently, the park has expanded to include immersive lands themed around the Toy Story and Star Wars franchises (the latter actually being like taking a trip to a galaxy far, far away). Some of Disney World’s best rides, such as Rise of the Resistance and the Tower of Terror can be found at Hollywood Studios.
Rounding out the bunch, you’ve got Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This unique park is a blend between a traditional theme park and a zoo. Divided into an assortment of regions such as Africa, Asia, and the fictional realm of Pandora (from Avatar), Animal Kingdom is arguably the most beautiful of the Disney World parks and contains a healthy mix of animal exhibits and thrill rides. It even includes a large scale safari adventure out on a replicated African Savannah!
On a one week trip to Orlando, you should dedicate one full day to each of the above parks. If you’re on a longer vacation, there’s even more to do at Disney World. If you’re transferring to a Disney Resort during your stay (or just need a rest day during your trip), Disney Springs is a really great shopping and dining precinct, featuring probably the largest range of Disney merchandise in the world. There’s also the Disney Boardwalk, which contains a further assortment of great restaurants.
As the main competition, Universal Studios Resort also has some really good theme parks in Orlando. Unlike the spread out nature of the Disney parks from one another, Universal Studios’ two major parks are right next to each other (with a third being constructed nearby). Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure are lots of fun, filled with a huge range of attractions based on popular film franchises. The headline attractions are those in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – a completely immersive section that can be found across both parks (they’re even connected by the Hogwarts Express train!) where you can tour Hogwarts and Diagon Alley.
Since both parks are next to each other, it makes sense to buy a park hopper pass, allowing you to jump between the two parks in the course of a day. If you’re spending two days at Universal, you can easily cover one park each day, though it is possible to do all the highlights of both in one day if you’re super efficient (plan to be there from open to close). If money is no issue, I highly recommend upgrading your admission to include the Universal Express pass, which will let you skip the queue on most attractions, really cutting down on the amount of time you’ll spend in lines.
At the front of the Universal Studios theme parks is the Universal CityWalk. This is Universal’s dining and entertainment district, as well as where you’ll find the resort’s official hotels. Its a nice place to chill out with a drink after a busy day at the parks. You’ll find all your favourite American food chains here.
Depending on how much time you have in Orlando, you may want to spend a relatively relaxing day by the pool at your resort and also wander out onto International Drive. While there’s a slower pace here compared to the big theme parks, you definitely won’t run short on things to see and do. This 5 kilometre thoroughfare is filled with restaurants, shops, theatres and tourist attractions.
The most popular spot for tourists on International Drive is the ICON Orlando 360 Complex. Renowned for its ICON Orlando Observation Wheel, it can’t be missed as you head along the strip. This huge ferris wheel offers amazing views of Orlando (including its theme parks) from its 30 air conditioned capsules. The onboard recorded commentary tells you all about the surrounding landmarks as you rotate about the wheel. With Orlando being a very flat city, a ride aboard the Orlando Observation Wheel is a great way to get the lay of the land from above.
There’s tons more to do near the Observation Wheel. If you’re after a more thrilling ride, the Starflyer is swinging chair attraction that takes riders up 450 feet into the air, high above the city (I skipped that one!). If you’d rather keep your feet on the ground, there’s the SEA Life Orlando Aquarium and Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, which are always a fun way to spend an hour or so (and escape the Florida heat).
Further south from the ICON Complex, you’ll come across a gigantic upside down mansion. This unique sight contains WonderWorks, a fully interactive science centre, which makes for a huge hit with families. The centre is filled with educational exhibits that even include an earthquake and hurricane simulator. The nearby Titanic: The Experience is the world’s first permanent attraction devoted to the famous ship, filled with recreations of the legendary vessel’s interior and artefacts salvaged from its shipwreck.
When you’re done exploring, there’s no shortage of places to eat on International Drive. You’ll find all your American brands along the strip – think Denny’s, Shake Shack, Outback Steakhouse and more. There’s also a whole heap of bars and clubs for those looking to continue on (don’t party too hard though – you’ll probably be waking up early the next day for another theme park’s opening time!).
Spending a week in Orlando is a recipe for a super busy vacation. Its so much fun though. There’s lots more to know about the specific theme parks that you’ll spend time visiting on a trip to this vacation hotspot in Central Florida, and I’ll be covering that going forward, but as you can see, there’s no shortage of things to do in Orlando. If you’re wanting to do it all, a week isn’t enough, but for a first time visitor, its a good amount of time for the highlights. How do you feel about Orlando? Do you love it as much as I do?
Located on Sentosa Island, Universal Studios Singapore is the only Universal theme park in South East Asia. Its also the first non-U.S park I had visited in my quest to do all the Disney and Universal Parks some day. The park is the smallest of …
Just north of Hollywood, the Californian version of Universal Studios provides a day’s worth of fun and thrill. It should definitely be a part of any theme park lover’s itinerary when visiting Los Angeles. The park consists of a mixture of a theme park and …
Ah the City of Angels. Los Angeles is one of the most well known and travelled cities of the world. Its the gateway to Hollywood and also passed through by travellers heading to Anaheim’s Disney resort. While I’d definitely recommend taking the trip to Anaheim and spending at least 2 additional days at the Disneyland parks, in this itinerary I’ll be focusing on the sights and experiences you can enjoy in Los Angeles itself. So get ready for some celebrity sightings, Hollywood culture and beautiful Southern California beach weather, because you’re off to L.A.
When you think of L.A, chances are you’re thinking of celebrities, movies and Hollywood. Today you’ll be visiting some of the key locations from this part of the city.
Start out your day with a trip to Beverly Hills. You can’t visit Los Angeles and not make your way to the 90210 postcode after all. Spend your morning window shopping (unless you REALLY have A LOT of money to spend) and people watching along Rodeo Drive. One of the world’s most infamous shopping strips, there’s high end stores and fancy cars all over the place in this neighbourhood.
While probably less famous than the pavement stars that you’ll be seeing later on today, Rodeo Drive is also where you’ll find the Walk of Style. You’ll find plaques along the sidewalk commemorating fashion icons such as Giorgio Armani. Make sure you stroll along the cobbled lane of Via Rodeo while you’re here and take in the mock European facades while you enjoy a cup of coffee with brunch. If you’re lucky you might even see one of the city’s many resident celebrities doing some morning shopping.
From there, its off to see the sights of Hollywood (after lunch at the nearby In-N-Out Burger of course!). That means the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame. Spend a bit of time tracking down the stars of your favourite…ahem, stars. In the process try not to be accosted by the numerous street performers dressed up as various superheroes and cartoon characters. You’ll also see numerous hand prints of various movie stars outside the TCL Chinese Theatre. Modelled after a Chinese pagoda, many blockbusters have seen their premiere at this very building over the years, including the original Star Wars film. You can also pop inside for a half hour tour of the venue, but make sure you book online in advance to select a time that suits you. The Dolby Theatre is also nearby and offers another half hour tour of a famous Hollywood movie venue.
While you’re exploring Hollywood Boulevard, make sure you get a shot of the Hollywood Sign in the distance. Don’t worry, you’ll be getting a bit closer later on. You also might want to pop into Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum to get some selfies with the incredibly realistic depictions of celebrities inside. If you’re after something that will give you a greater insight into the history of Hollywood instead, head across the road to the Hollywood Museum. Here you’ll find props and costumes from famous Hollywood showstoppers.
As the afternoon rolls along, its time to head up into the hills. Make your way to the Griffith Observatory in time for sunset over L.A. The Observatory doesn’t only provide stunning views of the city and the lit up Hollywood sign among the surrounding mountains though. Its perhaps most famous for its appearance in award winning films like La La Land and Rebel Without a Cause. When you’re finished taking in the views of both the city and the building itself, head on inside to check out the Samuel Oschin Planetarium and the associated exhibits on outer space. Just make sure you’re not visiting on a Monday as the Planetarium will be closed.
After getting your breakfast, its time for another day of sightseeing in the city. Start off by going back to a time before Los Angeles was even built, taking a trip to the La Brea Tar Pits. Spend some time checking out the tar pits that still serve as an actual ice age fossil excavation site. Its hard to imagine, but woolly mammoths and sabre tooth tigers once roamed the wilderness many thousands of years ago where modern day Los Angeles now stands. If you’re particularly interested in the various walks of prehistoric life that were once found here, stop inside the accompanying museum for a quick look around.
When you’re ready, return to more civilised times with some some stunning artwork. Literally next door, you’ll find the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). You could easily spends hours wandering around here as its the largest art museum in the western United States. The museum houses over 120,000 works in its permanent collection. You won’t have time for a comprehensive visit, but make sure you at least stop by Chris Burden’s Urban Light sculpture outside. Here you’ll get your obligatory Instagram photos among the grid of 220 street lights.
When you start to get hungry, its time for lunch at the nearby Farmers Market. Just a ten minute walk from LACMA, the historic market dates back to 1934 and was THE place to buy produce back in the day. Nowadays its home to countless food vendors, some having been there for many years, others starting up their carts more recently. No matter how fussy your taste buds, you’re bound to find something you’ll enjoy.
You can’t visit Southern California without a trip to the beach, and that’s where you’ll be spending your afternoon. After a stop over at the scenic Venice Canals, make your way to Venice Beach itself. Get your photo under the famous Venice sign found high above the intersection of Pacific and Windward Avenues before heading along to the Venice Boardwalk. Admire the street art, check out the open-air gym at Muscle Beach and people watch as skateboarders roll by and all kinds of performers seek to entertain the masses. Its an interesting place to say the least. If its a warm day, you might also want to spend some time just chilling on the beach itself.
From there, head along the water’s edge until you reach Santa Monica Pier. Its about a half an hour stroll from Venice if you’re up for it. Here at the end of Route 66, you’ll be spending the end of your second day in Los Angeles. Walk along the pier and look out across the Pacific ocean, watching the waves rushing up against the shore. If you time it right, you’ll get another picturesque Californian sunset on your visit.
Grab a bite to eat and spend some time exploring Pacific Park, a small carnival style amusement park on the pier itself. Highlights include the West Coaster and the solar powered Pacific Wheel. Both rides provide spectacular views of Santa Monica Bay in a more thrilling setting. You’ll find plenty to do to fill in a few hours, whether its trying your luck on the midway carnival games or having a drink at one of the many bars along the pier.
While you should definitely add a few days over at Anaheim when you’re in Los Angeles so that you can visit the Disneyland Resort parks, don’t overlook trip to Universal Studios Hollywood. Its much smaller than the Universal parks over in Florida, but there’s still enough here to fill in a whole day. Make sure you get to the park early so that you can take advantage of shorter lines.
Some of my favourite attractions in Universal Studios Hollywood include:
You’ll also want to check out the ‘world famous’ Studio Tour where you’ll come face to face with King Kong, the Fast and Furious gang, Norman Bates and other iconic characters from features under the Universal banner. When you get hungry, don’t miss the chance to dine at the Three Broomsticks in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. There’s nothing like a Butterbeer and meal to keep that energy going.
Providing an itinerary for how best to spend your time at Universal Studios Hollywood is a whole topic for another blog post, but its still pretty easy to see and do everything here in a single day. Even so, make sure you allocate the whole day here to get the most out of your experience.
When you’ve had your dose of thrills, exit the park and grab a feed at one of the 30 plus restaurants conveniently located in the Universal Citywalk. While you’re here, spend your evening looking around the various shops, bars and attractions before heading back to your hotel for some well earned rest.
Have I missed any of your favourite attractions in Los Angeles? Is there somewhere else you’d spend your time in the city? Let me know in the comments below. I’d love to hear from you!