Central Florida Guide
Visiting Central Florida
Central Florida is celebrated as the theme park capital of the world, boasting a vibrant tourism industry that attracts millions of visitors each year. The region is home to world-renowned destinations, most notably Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando, offering unforgettable experiences to visitors from all corners of the globe. Whether you seek exhilarating rides that push the limits of excitement, enchanting experiences that captivate the imagination, or family-friendly activities that create lasting memories, Central Florida has it all.
Weather
Central Florida generally experiences warm weather. Summers are hot and humid, with average highs often exceeding 90°F (32°C), accompanied by afternoon thunderstorms. July tends to be the hottest month. It’s important to note that hurricane season spans from the beginning of June to the end of November, with September and October being the peak months. Winters are mild, with temperatures rarely falling below 40°F (4°C). January is usually the coldest month, having an average high of 72°F (22°C).
Getting Around
Central Florida relies heavily on cars, making car rentals advisable based on your accommodation and planned destinations. Some hotels in the Orlando area offer complimentary transportation to major spots like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando. Although not as convenient, Lynx buses serve many attractions in Orange and Osceola counties. The I-Ride Trolley is an affordable means to reach popular sites on International Drive. Additionally, ridesharing apps like Uber and Lyft are available.
Top Things to Do
Lake Buena Vista, Florida
Featured Restaurants
Shake Shack
Enjoy high-quality takes on fast-food classics, including burgers, chicken, and frozen custard. Locations can be found throughout the Orlando tourist corridor.
Maggiano’s Little Italy
Indulge in a selection of Italian-American cuisine, offering classic pasta dishes, seafood, steak, chicken, and more. Maggiano’s Little Italy is conveniently located on International Drive near the Orange County Convention Center.
Morimoto Asia
Enjoy Chef Morimoto’s unique take on Chinese, Japanese, and Korean cuisine. Options include dim sum, sushi rolls, Peking duck, spare ribs, noodles, and more. The pan-Asian restaurant is located in Disney Springs.
Keke’s Breakfast Cafe
Delight in handmade American breakfast dishes and comforting lunch options, including a variety of waffles and pancakes, omelets, paninis, sandwiches, and more. Locations can be found throughout the region, including near Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.
Charley’s Steak House
Dine on seafood dishes and aged, extensively seasoned, flame-grilled beef. Restaurants are located on International Drive adjacent to ICON Park, near the town of Celebration, and nearby Tampa International Airport.
NYPD Pizza
Order freshly made garlic knots, chicken wings, authentic New York-style pizza, and more. Locations in the tourist corridor include near Universal Epic Universe at Lake Cay Commons plaza, in the Hunter’s Creek neighborhood, and next to the Metro West Village plaza in Orlando.
