Orlando: Your Guide to Theme Parks, Nearby Stays, and Real Florida Fun

When people think of Orlando, the central Florida city known globally for its massive theme parks and family tourism. Also known as the Theme Park Capital of the World, it draws over 75 million visitors a year—not just for Disney, but for Universal, SeaWorld, and dozens of other attractions. But here’s the thing: most tourists don’t actually stay in Orlando. They stay in Kissimmee, a nearby city just 10 miles from Disney World with lower hotel rates, more vacation rentals, and the same park access. Why? Because Kissimmee saves families hundreds—sometimes thousands—without making you drive farther. You get the same magic, but with more space, quieter streets, and better value.

Orlando isn’t just about rides. It’s about planning. You need to know what you can’t bring into Walt Disney World, the largest and most visited theme park on Earth, drawing 58 million people in 2024 alone. Glass bottles? Big backpacks? Alcohol? Those are banned. And if your kid turns 3 during the trip, you don’t pay extra—Disney’s policy is based on the day you enter, not your birthday. That’s the kind of detail that saves money and stress. You also need to know when to go. September is the cheapest month to visit Florida, and January is the coldest—but also the least crowded. That means shorter lines, better deals, and more time on rides.

People ask if Orlando is expensive. The answer depends on where you stay. Kissimmee is cheaper than Orlando for lodging, food, and parking. You can rent a whole house with a pool for less than a hotel room in Orlando. And if you’re trying to save on Disney tickets, you don’t need to buy the most expensive pass. Disney After Hours lets you enter at 7 p.m. for a fraction of the price, with almost no crowds and free snacks. You don’t need to spend $2,000 to have a great trip. You just need to know the tricks.

Behind all the rides and resorts, Orlando is a gateway to real Florida. The sinkhole that swallowed a woman in Kissimmee in 2025? That’s Florida too. The quiet beaches of the Gulf Coast? Just an hour away. The cheapest places to live in Florida? Many are within 30 minutes of Orlando. This isn’t just a theme park destination—it’s a basecamp for exploring the whole state.

Below, you’ll find real advice from people who’ve been there: how to pack for Disney, which park to hit first, how to avoid scams, and why September might be your best bet. No fluff. Just what works.