Heres everything it’s crucial that you know before planning a trip to Orlando, Florida.
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Orlando is so much more than home to some of thebest theme parksin the country.
The hotel is decked out in retro flair, from the Eames chairs and terrazzo floors to vintage-inspired toiletries.
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My favorite budget hotel at Universal Orlando is Cabana Bay.
I know many Orlando residents who use Cabana Bay as a staycation.
The property has extensive dining venues, including Michelin Guide-recommendedPrimofrom award-winning chef, Melissa Kelly.
Courtesy of Four Season Resorts
Check thecalendarfor your trip dates to see whats on.
Splash around Wekiwa Springs State Park.
Located minutes north of Orlando, Wekiwa Springs State Park is one of the most beautifulfreshwater springs in Florida.
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Visitors canbook guided kayak tours, hike, fish, and even book an overnight campsite at the park.
Shop and eat your way through Disney Springs.
Universal Studios Florida is home to rides and lands based on favorite films and television franchises.
Courtesy of Four Season Resorts
Therides are fantastic, the park design is stunning, and the food is truly next-level.
Volcano Bay may be the best water park in the world.
Universal is set to debut its newest park,Epic Universe, in 2025.
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The new park will have five themed lands, including the much-anticipated East Coast debut ofSuper Nintendo World.
With eight hotels on property and three more debuting next year, theres a fit for every budget.
We think the benefits of staying at a Universal-owned hotel are worth the cost, says Testa.
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You’ll also get priority access to restaurant reservations, plus free transportation to and from the parks.
Sara Maciel,a travel advisor for Carry on the Magic, specializes in booking Walt Disney World vacations.
Her top tip for first-time visitors?
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Then once youve worked through that list, everything else feels like extra magic.
Another tip from Maciel is to stay on property.
Staying on the property means staying in the Disney bubble.
Staying on property also grants you an extra 30 minutes in the parks before non-resort guests are let in.
Testa says, Be at the park, admission in hand, 60 minutes before the official opening.
This is a tremendous advantage over those who can’t get up and out the door that early.
If rides are your primary focus, I recommend rope-dropping at least one day of your trip.
And if youre staying on-site, you get that extra 30 minutes in the park as well!
Another way to conquer crowds and make the most of your time?
Defer to the experts.
Have a touring plan.
Crowds grow and shrink at Disney World’s rides in mostly predictable ways.
There are more ways to reduce your time spent in lines, whether its for food or rides.
The eight-seat sushi counter is in the middle of Winter Gardens Plant Street Market.
For those overwhelmed by choice, the ten-piece omakase menu is the perfect decision.
The menu also has a selection of ramen, rice bowls, and an unforgettable matcha tiramisu for dessert.
The cocktail menu is great; get the Godzilla, a yuzu-forward drink served in a Godzilla toy.
The spot is a dream come true for ramen lovers, serving up house-made noodles in savory broths.
The food isnt just outstanding food for a theme park or a hotel its outstanding in general.
The menu has a selection of Cuban, Jamaican, Mexican, Puerto Rican, Columbian, and U.S.V.I.
Orlando can become extremely busy during popular times to travel, such as school holidays and summer breaks.
Note that the Atlantic hurricane season lasts from June through November, often bringing afternoon thunderstorms along with it.
Be sure to protect your trip with travel insurance, especially when making plans during that time of year.
The weather can be slightly cool, which is a welcome change from the blazing hot summer temperatures.
The train runs Monday-Friday, every half-hour during peak travel times and less frequently at times throughout the day.
One-way fares start at $2 with weekly, monthly, and annual passes available as well.
LYNXbus service provides transportation throughout Orlando and Orange County.
