As one of the most popular ways to travel, car hire is a great option for families wanting to explore the city and surrounding areas on their own. Orlando International Airport has several car hire companies to choose from, while Alamo is Disney World's official agency. Although reasonably priced, be aware that gas and parking are expensive and you will need a map.
The I-Ride Trolley service operates from 8.00am to 10.30pm, with a single fare costing US$1.25 per ride and children riding for free. Exclusively for destinations within the International Drive Resort, passes can be obtained in advance for $4 per person on a daily basis. Make sure you have exact change ready for single fares as drivers do not carry cash.
When driving, be aware that the region has many different toll systems with costs ranging from 25 cents to several dollars depending on location and vehicle type. The distance between toll gates can be frustrating, as can the traffic. Orlando's main highway, the I-4, becomes very congested during rush hour between 6.30-9.00am and 3.00-6.30pm, so avoid it if you can.
With services from the north eastern states, get to Orlando by the Amtrak Railway. With journeys starting in New York, passing through Orlando to reach Miami, you can get there in under 22 hours – a great idea if you want to extend your trip in the US. The Amtrak Auto Train service is also available if taking your motorbike or car.
A great day out for all ages that love to create a splash. With numerous waterslides, experience a thrill on The Black Hole: The Next Generation, the new Brain Wash ride or Disco H2O, complete with 'aquadisco'. For adrenaline seekers, try the ultimate free-fall Bomb Bay or alternatively soak up the sun by the Surf Lagoon pool.
Enjoy a day snorkelling with the endangered Florida manatee, the gentle giants of the Crystal River. Take lunch overlooking the sanctuary followed by an airboat adventure spotting dolphins and more. Encounter bears, panthers, alligators and hippos at the Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park, famous for its rehabilitation of injured animals. Children will love the interactive feeding session with the Park's friendlier residents.
Explore the wetlands of the Central Florida Everglades at night in search of turtles, bald eagles, exotic birds and alligators. Venture through swamps to witness these magnificent predators hunt their prey. If you're after a different experience away from the theme parks and nightlife, enjoy a ride with the whole family without the queues. Book in advance due to popularity.
Experience a fascinating insight into the world of an astronaut. Tour NASA's launch headquarters and view a space shuttle launch pad from the four-story observation point. Put yourself in Neil Armstrong's moon boots for a day by taking a virtual moonwalk and feeling the 4-G pull in a G-Force Simulator. Stand in awe at the largest rocket ever built at 363 ft.
Spend a couple of days exploring Orlando's theme parks and attractions. Disney's original park is best for young families or those who are just young at heart. Take a ride on Space Mountain, explore the Haunted Mansion or take the children to see a live show to meet Mickey and the gang. Alternatively, take a break from the rides at SeaWorld with a dolphin show or shark encounter. Odyssea is a must see Cirque du Soleil-inspired circus performance for all ages.
Spend a day at the beach relaxing or learning to surf. For couples or those in a smaller group, take a one-on-one private lesson for around US$70 per person for a couple of hours. By the end you should be able to stand up on the board and stay up with a bit of luck! Around an hour's drive from Orlando, hire a car for the day and make a road trip out of it, stopping along the coast for lunch.
Formerly the MGM Studios, take a trip down Tinsel Town's memory lane. Experience the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular where the most iconic scenes are recreated in a live performance. Put yourself centre stage with the latest American Idol Experience, witness some of the best special effects in movie history or discover the art behind Disney animation. With live performances and rollercoasters, both children and adults will find entertainment. Finish the day with Fantasmic!: a nighttime firework and water display using hydrotechnics.
While the Disney experience dominates a lot of Orlando's tours, in stark contrast the region also offers attractions of natural beauty. North of Orlando, take a trip to the Ocala National Forest with 383,000 acres to explore and over 600 lakes, rivers and springs. Ideal for hiking, cycling, fishing, canoeing and swimming, if you love the open outdoors Orlando will take you there. If a scenic drive sounds less effort than exploring the forests by foot, you can also take a jeep or ATV on the off-road trails.
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Expedia Holidays > Orlando Holidays
