The first thing that comes up to travelers’ minds when they think about the city of Orlando in Florida is probably the theme parks. But this destination has so much more to offer… and data can prove it!
According to recent information shared by Visit Orlando, The Official Tourism Association for Orlando, in 2022, this city had 74 million visitors, reaching numbers close to pre-pandemic levels—98%.
Orlando ranked as the number 1 destination in the United States, getting domestic visitors and international visitors as well.
61 million Americans and 4.9 million international travelers —mainly from Canada, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia— visited for leisure.
Orlando has so much to offer visitors, and here are the top 6 reasons why people—from solo travelers to friends, to families— visit this fascinating city:
The Amusement Parks
Yes, the obvious reason, but let’s go a little further.
Orlando is home to amazing theme parks and water parks including the world-famous Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Seaworld, and Fun Spot America.
Travelers will find fascinating and traditional experiences like Magic Kingdom, founded in 1971, but also the brand new Minions attraction opening soon in Universal Orlando.
Orlando Theme parks constantly update and create new events, shows, and attractions, to make travelers want to return and recreate unforgettable experiences.
Nice Weather
Orlando is located in the Sunshine State, so sunny days are frequent and abundant. But that’s not it, the average annual temperature is 72 degrees in Central Florida.
According to multiple agencies, the best time to visit Orlando is between March and May, when the weather is nice, temperatures remain between 75°F to 80°F, and there are great sales for attractions and lower prices for accommodations.
However, travelers must consider hurricane season —between June and November— and avoid the days with higher probability to encounter these wild storms.
Great Outdoor Experiences
This vibrant city is surrounded by incredible natural beauty, and there are multiple outdoor activities for all kinds of travelers.
From beautiful lakes, to natural rivers, to swamps, to national parks. Visitors can admire wildlife at the Everglades National Park or drive 20 minutes north of Orlando to visit the spectacular Wekiwa Springs State Park.
There are also great places for camping, biking, rafting, and hiking. Adventure travelers can have a great time in this city.
Museums, Historic Places, And More Attractions
Art Lovers can have a blast at the Orlando Museum of Art —founded in 1924— where they will find impressive works of art from contemporary Floridian artists, and pieces from the 18th century to 1945.
Travelers can also enjoy the Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens, and the Kennedy Space Center, and learn about Florida’s heritage at the Orange County Regional History Center.
There are also multiple shopping centers, restaurants —including Michelin star restaurants—, stores, and iconic places like The Mall at Millenia.
Great Connectivity
Orlando International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the United States, connecting travelers to multiple national and international destinations.
There are also multiple bus and train alternatives to this city, including the new and second fastest rail route in the country connecting Orlando to Miami which will begin to serve travelers this summer.
Multiple Accommodation Options
As one of the most visited cities in the United States, this destination is prepared to host millions of travelers every year.
There are multiple accommodations options in Orlando, from budget hotels to luxurious resorts.
The top hotels in Orlando in 2023 include new properties like Lake Nona Wave Hotel, classy accommodations with great reputations like Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress, and resorts in theme parks like the Four Seasons Orlando on Disney property.
Orlando is so much more than just the home of famous theme parks, and it is obvious why millions of travelers are choosing this city as their favorite vacation spot in the past few months.
