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Orlando holidays
Orlando is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations for families, thanks to its wide range of exciting activities and attractions. Famous for being home to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and a range of other theme and water parks, Florida is perfect for thrill-seekers and rollercoaster fans alike.
- Flight Time
- 9h 25m
- From London
- Currency
- $
- US Dollar
- Time Zone
- GMT -4
Getting to Orlando
The average flight time from London to Orlando is nine hours and 25 minutes. Here at SNO, we offer direct flights from various airports across the UK. Speak to one of our reputable sales members to discover all your flight options.
Average weather in Orlando
- Temperature (°C)*
- Rainfall (Inches)*
Holidays in Orlando
Anyone looking for more thrills and entertainment after the parks close won't be disappointed by the nightlife Orlando has to offer; bars, clubs and restaurants abound and there are plenty of opportunities to watch live music, enjoy original comedy or take in the sights of the city from a 400-ft high Ferris wheel. Be warned, the legal drinking age in the US is 21 and you'll be asked for ID, so don't forget to include one in your party gear.
Of course, the two big players in the industry, Disney and Universal, are also involved, each offering their own version of late-night entertainment. Disney Springs is part of Walt Disney World, but you don't need a ticket to get in. It's a vast area of shops, restaurants and bars where you can enjoy a wide range of concerts, including the famous House of Blues. This is a family-friendly area, with no age restrictions, so it's perfect for those with children who refuse to go to bed. Universal City Walk is similar, but more focused on live music with a purpose-built concert hall. For those without kids, there are plenty of places on International Drive and in downtown Orlando that offer themed entertainment such as karaoke, piano bars, jazz and blues venues, comedy clubs and, of course, good old-fashioned dancing. So when the parks close their gates and the sun goes down, head out to discover the bright lights of Orlando and enjoy entertainment to suit everyone, young and old.
As you would expect from a major tourist destination like Orlando, finding somewhere to eat, be it breakfast, lunch or dinner is not difficult. All the recognised chains and fast food giants are here in abundance, but often with an unexpected twist; the MacDonald’s on International Drive is the largest in the World and comes complete with children’s play area, arcade gaming machines and even sells pizza!! But don’t think for one second that you have to be munching burgers, pretzels and pizza all week long, although excellent versions of these dishes can be found. Orlando is a melting pot of world cuisine. Expect to find, Asian, Mexican, Spanish, Italian and Cuban, (to name just a few), restaurants and food stalls that suit every taste and budget. Equally, the finest American fare is plentiful; amazing steaks, mouth-watering fresh seafood and BBQ ribs all rub shoulders with each other in a staggering array of venues, many of which offer live entertainment to help the digestive juices flow. So during your stay in Orlando we recommend you take time out to indulge in some of the varied food available and make sure that gaining those inevitable, extra holiday pounds was truly worth it.
If the buzz and vibe of your theme park experiences has left you in need of some retail therapy, then you won't be disappointed by the shopping prospects that Orlando has to offer. From giant malls to boutique locations the city has it all, even the parks get in on the act. Two premier malls dominate the Orlando shopping scene.
Situated 25 minutes from Walt Disney Resort is The Florida Mall, a 1.7 million square foot extravagance of shopping, dining and fun, with over 250 retail and dining opportunities. The kids will not be disappointed either with a large play area and the Crayola Experience, where families can indulge in various, crayon themed activities.
Much closer to the resort areas is the Mall at Millenia. This is a luxury shopping experience set in amazing architecture with high vaulted glass ceilings and specially commissioned art work. As you can image all the high-end brands are represented here as well as some fantastic, fine dining restaurants.
Outside the malls there are several designer outlet locations such as Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores, Orlando International Premium Outlets and Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets. Head downtown, or to the surrounding neighbourhoods outside the major tourist areas, and you will find delightful boutique stores, antique and vintage clothing shops mixed with food stalls and quaint restaurants, all reflecting the cultural mix of the area. Finally, if you don’t want to stray too far from the resort areas then both Disney and Universal offer their take on what shopping should be, obviously with that special, themed, twist.
Activities in Orlando
Orlando is a water sports enthusiast's paradise whether it's spectacular water scenes in rich ecosystems or a relaxing canoe trip on the Clearwater Marine. And there's even more to explore on foot. Orlando's activities appeal to those seeking adventure.
Watersports
Diving in Orlando
You might think that the diving opportunities in and around Orlando are limited to an organised dive in one of the many aquariums that are part of the theme parks. In fact, Central Florida is home to some of the best freshwater diving in the United States, with plenty of places to dive all year round. Central Florida has many freshwater springs that often form lakes ideal for diving adventures. The waters are crystal clear and, although you'll need a wetsuit, the temperature remains a constant 23 °C all year round. Subterranean rivers have slowly eroded the limestone beneath the surface, resulting in surface collapses revealing caves and caverns, perfect for aquatic exploration. Finally, it's worth mentioning that several companies offer river diving, providing expert advice and support craft to ensure you have an exciting but controlled experience. Whatever you choose, make sure you sign up with a reputable and approved company to ensure your dive location is legal, your equipment is reliable and you have a safe and enjoyable time.
Surfing in Orlando
Looking for something a little different to do during your Orlando holiday? Well, can we suggest that you try your hand at surfing. No, we have not gone insane, there really are places you can experience the thrill of ‘riding some waves, even though the nearest sea is over an hour away. Fantasy Surf, located at Fantasy World, Kissimmee offers indoor surfing to suit all abilities. Watch the professionals or try riding a board yourself in a controlled, safe, but above all fun environment, all accompanied by a surf inspired musical back ground. Of course, Disney is in on the act. Typhoon Lagoon opens its amazing wave pool to surfers before the park opens. Qualified, professional instructors offer classes for up to twelve surfers at any one time, including a two and half hour’s beginner’s session. With waves guaranteed every 90 seconds Typhoon Lagoon offers the ideal location to learn new skills or increase your confidence.
Windsurfing & kitesurfing in Orlando
The Sunshine State is not usually associated with windsurfing and kitesurfing, as its inland location means that the weather conditions are not ideal for this water sport. Nevertheless, there is no shortage of opportunities within easy reach of this wonderful region. At Cocoa Beach, about an hour's drive from Orlando, you can take advantage of the windy currents and drastic waves to roll the ball across the water. The coastal cities of St. Petersburg and Tampa are nestled in the Gulf of Mexico and offer relatively calm waters suitable for beginners and intermediate adventurers.
Sailing in Orlando
The area in and around Orlando provides an abundance of lakes and waterways, many of which are ideal for sailing. There are many companies offering excursions ranging from a few hours to all day. Private charters are also popular and for the keener sailors, lessons can be booked or you can take charge of the sailing yourself. Some of our favourite destinations are Spring Lake, Lake Jessamine and Lake Conway. All provide beautiful settings on which to enjoy this most gentle, relaxing pastime.
Fishing in Orlando
We get it, angling is not the first thing that springs to mind when thinking of ‘things to do’ in Orlando; but with over 60,000 acres of freshwater inside the wider city area and a diverse amount of species, it’s not surprising to find that a thriving fishing culture exists. The most popular way to try your skill at landing a catch is by hiring or joining a scheduled charter boat. All equipment is included and your knowledgeable guide will take you to the best fishing spots for largemouth bass, redfish, tarpon, sunfish, catfish and the beginner's favourite, crappie. If you fancy something a bit different and slightly more independent, take yourself to one of the lakes or rivers offering kayak fishing. Travel under your own steam and use your own skills to navigate to the best spots and try to land that ‘whopper’ of your dreams. Alternatively, try some shore based angling. There are many public lakes and fish management areas all looked after by the Florida Wildlife Commission, all you have to do is select your perfect haven to settle down and cast those lines. Some of the most popular choices include: Lake Tohopekaliga, covered in dense, lush vegetation, is home to large bass; Indian River, Mosquito Lagoon and the Butler chain of lakes are renowned for their large populations of redfish and largemouth bass, while Lake Kissimmee is a destination of choice for many professional anglers, who organise several tournaments there each year.
Canoeing & kayaking in Orlando
While kayaking opportunities in Orlando itself are limited, there are plenty of ways to explore Central Florida's lakes and rivers nearby. So don your swimming costume, slap on some suntan lotion and head out for some water-borne adventures. About one-hour drive from downtown Orlando is Merritt Island Refuge, a bioluminescence wonderland. On your guided night tour, you'll see the water explode in a myriad of blue lights with every disturbance, whether from your paddle or the movements of swimming fish and dolphins. You may even see a flying mullet jump into your kayak. A little further on, you can enjoy an experience of a completely different kind: the Crystal River region is home to resting manatees all year round, and it's essential to book a guided kayak excursion if you want to get up close and personal with these mysterious creatures. For a gentle paddling experience, head to Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, about two hours from Orlando. Single or double kayaks can be rented for a 5.5-mile self-guided tour around this place of natural beauty. Expect to encounter many forms of aquatic life, including otters and turtles. Take a picnic lunch to stop and relax along the way. Finally, for those wishing to stay closer, we recommend a trip to Wekiva Springs State Park, just a 30-minute drive from the city. Here you can hire kayaks and cruise leisurely down the Wekiva River, watching for wild birds and alligators, before cooling off in the natural springs or enjoying a drink on nearby Wikiva Island.
Land activities
Golf in Orlando
As you can imagine, with its family entertainment and fun activities, Orlando offers plenty of opportunities to indulge in fun golf activities. Mini-golf is a great way to get introduced to the sport and there are plenty of themed centres in the resorts, including Pirates Cove, Congo River and Lost Caverns Adventure Golf. For those who are a little older, there are some interesting variations on the traditional driving range, where you can enjoy high-end interactive games, with GPS-tracked golf balls and virtual golf courses. Two excellent examples are Topgolf and Drive Shack, where a party atmosphere is encouraged with air-conditioned bays and good food and drink. Legends such as Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson have all designed courses in beautiful locations, making the most of the natural environment on offer. Whatever your golfing ambitions, whether it's a bit of fun or a championship-level challenge, Orlando has something for you, but be sure to heed the 'Beware of Alligators' signs.
Cycling & mountain biking in Orlando
One of the best ways to discover the flora and fauna of the Orlando area, while relaxing and getting some exercise, is by bike. Many companies offer bike hire and safety equipment and will advise you on the best routes. Take a break from these themed, manufactured environments and explore some real landscapes. The Urban Trail is a largely off-road route that winds through the heart of downtown Orlando. It's safe and easy for cyclists of all ages and abilities. It's a great way to discover the city, passing through Loch Haven Park, Mead Garden, Orlando Cultural Park and along six extraordinary lakes. There are plenty of places along the way to enjoy a well-deserved meal and drink, including a local winery. If you want wildlife to accompany you on your tour, head for the Lake Apopka Trail, which takes you through a natural wetland sanctuary, home to over 300 species of birds, snakes and alligators. There are some challenging sections, so we recommend you plan your route carefully to ensure you stay within the limits of your physical abilities and equipment. For a gentler, more urban experience, choose the Celebration Nature Trails. Built as part of Walt Disney's vision of suburban bliss, the trails take you through picture-perfect homes and gardens with incredibly friendly residents. A surreal experience, that's how to describe this itinerary.
Walking and hiking in Orlando
When you visit Orlando, you might not think to take time out for a walk, but you'd be surprised at how many opportunities there are for you to take a stroll, unwind and relax. Those of you who know the area already know that it's relatively easy to fill up on steps just by wandering around the vast theme parks, but there are plenty of other places to go too. The Seminole-Wekiva Trail is a 14-mile paved walkway that follows an old railway line and allows walkers to pass through populated areas rather than being in a remote national park. That said, there are plenty of stunning vistas to admire and picturesque spots to enjoy. A shorter option is Lake Underhill Park, where a 0.75-mile loop trail circles the lake and offers plenty of birdwatching opportunities. If you're interested in wildlife watching, consider the Little Econ Greenway, a footpath that follows the course of a river and offers plenty of opportunities to spot ospreys, hawks and even alligators; there's also a small butterfly garden to discover. For a more varied hike, we recommend the Tibet-Butler Preserve. Here you'll find 3.6 miles of trails through a range of natural habitats, from pine forests to wetlands. The reserve has an information centre where you can find out lots of interesting facts about the flora and fauna you're likely to encounter on your walk. Mead Botanic Gardens is the perfect place to experience mindfulness. Here, the gardens have been carefully created to reflect the many types of habitats found in Florida, and the whole setting has been designed to offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Orlando.
