Welcome to Orlando
Orlando is much more than its theme parks. Downtown, International Drive and the city’s distinctive neighbourhoods provide dining, arts, sport, shopping, nightlife and outdoor experiences.
Why Visit?
Guests can build a completely different Orlando day around Lake Eola, local neighbourhoods, museums, live sport, food markets or International Drive attractions.
Main Things to See and Do
- Downtown Orlando and Lake Eola
- International Drive
- Distinctive local neighbourhoods
- Professional sport and live entertainment
- Dining, arts, shopping and outdoor activities
Explore the Named Attractions and Activities
Here is the fuller information behind each item in the highlights list.
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Downtown Orlando and Lake Eola
Lake Eola is Downtown Orlando’s central park, with a 0.9-mile paved loop, skyline views, swan boats, gardens, public art, playgrounds and the Walt Disney Amphitheater.
Before you go: Use a downtown garage or legal street parking and check the city event calendar, as festivals can affect roads and access.
Official information ↗🎡
International Drive
International Drive is a large entertainment district with walkable hubs, attractions, restaurants, nightlife, shopping and the I-Ride Trolley. It sits close to Universal Orlando and SeaWorld.
Before you go: I-Drive is several miles long. Navigate to the exact attraction or centre rather than to 'International Drive' generally.
Official information ↗🎨
Orlando’s Neighbourhoods
Districts such as Thornton Park, Mills 50, Ivanhoe Village and City District provide local restaurants, murals, nightlife, independent shops and cultural venues beyond the tourist corridors.
Before you go: Each neighbourhood has its own parking pattern and busiest times. Choose one or two districts rather than trying to cover the whole city in one visit.
Official information ↗🏟️
Professional Sport and Live Entertainment
Downtown Orlando brings basketball, soccer, American football, concerts and major events together around Kia Center, Inter&Co Stadium and Camping World Stadium.
Before you go: Buy tickets only through authorised sellers and check venue bag, parking and entry policies before match day.
Official information ↗🎭
Dining, Arts, Shopping and Outdoor Time
The wider city combines performing arts, local food, museums, farmers markets, shopping districts, parks and lakes—useful for visitors who want a day that feels different from the resort areas.
Before you go: Orlando is geographically spread out. Group activities by district and allow for city traffic between stops.
Official information ↗Shopping and Places to Eat
Orlando has everything from neighbourhood cafés and independent restaurants to major malls, entertainment districts and internationally recognised dining.
Pamela & George’s Tip
Our suggestion: Do not use 'Orlando' as one map destination. Choose the district first—Downtown, I-Drive, Mills 50, Lake Nona or another neighbourhood—to avoid unnecessary driving.