Are you traveling with kids? Or is it going to be a more romantic trip? Or maybe you're taking your company to Orlando. Whatever the reason, make sure to check the attractions appropriate for each age group. The kids probably will not enjoy endless days shopping, so try and stay at a hotel that offers babysitting service or alternate a park day with a shopping day.
For more romantic trips, Orlando has plenty to do. From nice restaurants to very romantic hotels like the Portofino at Universal Citywalk.
What time of year do you want to go? Remember that Florida can get extremely hot during the Summer months, and those are also the months in which the parks will be the most crowded. Is standing in line a big concern to you? If so, you may want to think about visiting in April or November, when the temperature is nice and the parks are a bit slower.
Never, no matter what time of year forget sunscreen. Orlando has many outdoors activities and the sun is constant. You do not want to be one of the people that after a day out gets so red it's hard to enjoy the rest of the days. Make sure to apply your unscreen constantly.
If you are going to theme parks, do not wing it! They are very large, and require preparation. Universal, Disney and Sea World all offer park maps on their websites, so make sure you allow yourself enough days to see everything you want to.
Do not plan too much for one day! Remember that you will be arriving in the parks early and probably staying until the parks close. It is a lot of walking and standing, so it may be hard to shop afterwards.
Many parks offer discounted rates to students, other Florida residents and residents of other states or even countries. All this information you can find on their websites, so just make sure to check in advance.
Orlando is one of the greatest shopping destinations in the US. It has anything from designer clothes to souvenirs at very affordable prices. Make sure to check the Orlando Prime Outlets, the Premium Outlets and the Mall at Millenia. They are absolutely filled with the best stores in the country.
Orlando also has a great nightlife. From Pleasure Island at Downtown Disney to Universal Studios' Citywalk to Downtown Orlando. Whatever kind of music you like, you will find something. My personal favorite is I-Bar at Orange avenue.
Do not rely on public transportation. Either rent a car or go by cab. The buses are unreliable and there are not many of them. If you do not know the city it is especially easy getting lost if you take a bus.
