Orlando: What NOT to do in Orlando, Florida

[@jeffreyvose8716]

I’ve lived in Orlando my whole life except for 5 years in Tallahassee at Florida State University. I’ve had year passes to Disney and all the other parks for years as well (not at the same time, because that would be silly). I worked summers during high school and college at Disney, Universal and Wet N’ Wild, which sadly doesn’t exist anymore... but anyways.... so I’ve got a secret… if you’ve ever wanted to visit a park here in Orlando and want to do EVERYTHING in that park in one day with no need for fast passes or anything like that... Super Bowl Sunday. Parks are mostly empty. You’re welcome.

[@marywinter8216]

Brilliant! Thanks.

[@Xyprotonic]

Doing gods work

[@SherriLyle80s]

I live here. Why am I watching this?... 😂

[@woltersworld]

to see if I got a few things right ;)

[@zekoslav]

Me too :)

[@joe1041]

same

[@starbrand3726]

Me too. Just checking to see if he got stuff right.

[@deehami]

Ikr

[@bailey2103-3]

If you're going to Orlando and can't afford Disney but want a Disney experience go to Disney Springs (downtown Disney)

[@historychannel2317]

And take the disney busses to hotels amd walk around hotels for free

[@bailey2103-3]

@@historychannel2317 yes, forgot about that part

[@garbygarb31]

It's not a Disney experience. It's an outdoor mall

[@historychannel2317]

True, but i take my wife to disney springs, then get on a bus to a hotel such as the contemporary, walk around play lawn chess, cornhole then get on the ferry boat to animal lodge, walk around there, then ride bus to grand floridian hotel amd walk around, then as it gets closer to the fireworks we goto the polynesian and walk out to the hill, lay down and watch the fireworks for free. Its the best free disney expierence :)

[@SuperBoomshack]

Go to Disney Springs if you want to max out your credit card in a hurry

[@MiddleGeorgiaGraves]

Don't drive on I4 right now and think you're going to get some where fast.😁

[@rocdaneweracap]

Facts I take the SunRail

[@cassyspears823]

Don’t go to Walmart near Disney, busy as hell!!!! Like Black Friday. Busy

[@itr0863]

my truck got broken into at CHUYS in Kissimmee and i went to the Kissimmee walmart to get some duct tape and garbage bags to cover my window and you're so right. It was like black friday in there! Thank god I was able to leave my toddler son with my in laws so my wife went with me to walmart.

[@finleythegolden2909]

Cassy Spears My Disney resort hotel had bee bugs so the gave my mom and sister $100 each to go get clothes to wear for the trip because they took all of our things to be taken and cleaned and everything. It was 3 am and it was crazy busy. Some weird people there too.

[@MsDean09]

And expensive!!

[@sarty88]

Don't go to Wal-Mart in general. Especially if you're use to European priced groceries. Wal-Mart is v expensive for basic shopping essentials.

[@119Agent]

Target in Flamingo Crossing is the best bet.

[@hlynnkeith9334]

My experience with Orlando, FL: Service: I found that when I treated the server well, the server treated me well. I smiled at them. I asked how their day was going. No one else did that, and that made me stand out in their minds. And they remembered me. When I went back, I got service with a smile. Transport: I have done Orlando with a car and without; that is, shuttles. I prefer shuttles. Why the blue bloody hell would I take a vacation to subject myself to the stress of driving in Orlando when I have the shuttle option? Every hotel I have used in Orlando had shuttles.

[@katie-kb6qd]

h lynn keith I agree, the traffic here is awful, and driving in Orlando, especially on I4, is horrific, shuttles and anything else is better for tourists

[@cmal90]

I’ve always enjoyed driving in Orlando find it pretty chilled and relaxed. It has its moments but for the most part I enjoy it. I supposed compared to where I’m from it’s a novelty all the craziness as we don’t have traffic problems.

[@TripHacksDC]

"Don't try to do everything" is such good universal advice. Especially on a short trip!

[@woltersworld]

Amen. The FOMO that people get makes them do too much so they don't actually enjoy anything

[@offthebeatenpathadventures1348]

We used to try to do it all in one trip. We just got exhausted. We learned on other trips to just relax. I love your advice.

[@pennywisethedancingclown2702]

The Orlando Science Center is a great place to visit if you have kids. If you’re coming with older kids or by yourself, the Orlando Art Museum and Lue gardens are great spots to see. Side note: while most Orlando tourism is low in October, the large theme parks are very crowded. Micky’s Not So Scary Halloween party and Halloween Horror Nights are big events. Worth going, but don’t expect low crowd levels at theme parks.

[@woltersworld]

Thanks for the great helpful comment! you are really good at getting the kids to come visit pennywise :)

[@astroAntagonist]

This is especially applicable this year (2019) as it is the longest time both events have ever run with Not So Scary running from Aug. 16th - Nov. 1st and Horror Nights running from Sept. 6th - Nov. 2nd.

[@annab6948]

My son and I were in the Science Center Feb. 2017. Great experience. Also the lake ride in Winterpark was a nice touch to the last day of our stay. Generally - there are so many "other" sights than the obvious, and maybe it's time to put them on display more...

[@offthebeatenpathadventures1348]

I'll have to check out the Science Center. They are so much fun. We found one in San Francisco and it was a blast.

[@offthebeatenpathadventures1348]

@@woltersworld Pennywise needs love too, and no one will beat that clown's dance moves

[@SushiGhost97]

I live in orlando and can confidently say: don't come during the summer, all you're see is rain and awful weather. Come during spring if anything

[@HaunaMyKiki]

Best time to come is mid Sept-late Oct. Just after the Summer rush, but just before the start of the Holidays. It's significantly less crowded, temperature cools down, humidity drops, and it's just at the end of our rainy season

[@rigrentals5297]

As a person who was born in Altamonte Springs, Fl. I can attest that this video is real, raw, and informative. great video sir.

[@courtneylynn1854]

I'm from Altamonte too and I agree! 😂👍

[@katie-kb6qd]

Never come to Florida during the summer, ESPECIALLY if you’re going to one of the parks. So many people are sent to the hospital or get crazy sick because of the heat. It’s really serious. And the lines are way too long

[@javierlandaverde4108]

We went in late July a couple years ago it was fine, but I don't know because since we are Latinos lol we can stand the heat and humidity. Also, the humidity makes your skin really soft and clear from excess sweat coming off your pores. I was amazed especially coming from Northern California near San Francisco. We have dry and hot weather for the majority of the summer. So we tend to lotion up if not we get dry flaky skin. During late summer it's almost hurricane season so when we were there it rained and it was windy on "some" occasions. It did not hurt the vacation. It was actually really nice. The rain is warm, not cold like here in Northern California. When it does rain a lot and the wind picks up than the park urges the people to find shelter unless you have a raincoat, the rides remain open like Indiana Jones only the ones that have indoor shelter, outdoor rides are closed for the time being until weather clears up again. If you are in a hotel pool they remain open unless the rain and wind are too excessive they closed it down. We knew the lines were going to belong so fast pass was awesome. We used the mobile app and reserve rides 2-3 days in advance. Worked well, the food we dodged it, too expensive and ok in quality inside the park unless high-end restaurants or Disney springs but Disney springs. We instead went to a super Walmart bought cereal, bread, and meat for sandwiches and occasionally inside the park, we do get some snack or lunch if it was necessary but for us eating twice a day while going to the park is enough.

[@cobgod1415]

exactly! as a native floridian, not enough people understand that florida vacation is a winter thing, not a summer thing. it's way easier to walk around universal studios while it's 50 degrees than it is in 90 degree heat.

[@Nocredit11208]

is going in December a good idea?

[@katie-kb6qd]

@@Nocredit11208 in terms of weather yes! but also that’s when all the latin america tourists and people from new york are here it gets crazy packed

[@josemanuellopezgiraldez404]

Get good

[@Puffincatcher]

Really good advice coming from a local! Stay hydrated at the parks please! Go up to any stand that sells drinks and ask for a cup of water. It's free! Also don't try to do everything. I work in the parks and I see people all the time get wayyyyy too stressed on their vacation because there's so much to do. Also if your a rollercoaster junkie go to Busch gardens Tampa. It's just over an hour drive but some of the best coasters in Florida are there!

[@rawrsophiex]

matthew mcguire and there’s a free coach bus to tampa to visit busch gardens!

[@TerryB751]

Also, if you're on International Drive, don't think you need to stay on that road while traffic is moving like a herd of turtles. You can choose Universal Blvd. or one of the other adjacent roads and then just cut over to your destination on a cross street. This from a native in the area.

[@jfiorello68]

Also be very careful walking small dogs near Florida lakes, ponds, swamps, etc. Gators see them as prey too.

[@brianbarwick908]

They attack big dogs too. One just recently killed a 100 pound pit bull

[@rocma6908]

Go to Disney in November.As a local I can tell you the weather is so nice! Pretty much after Christmas it's back to 90 degrees Fahrenheit.also go to Disney springs (downtown Disney) if you can't afford to go to Disney but you will still get a Disney vibe.it's a bunch of shopping centers and experiences.it's free to get in if you just want to take a stroll and kill some time.great for kids and adults.everyone will have fun!

[@offthebeatenpathadventures1348]

Great advice

[@PerfectPride]

I'd also add, Orlando is more than just our theme parks. We have so many places to catch various shows, do fun activities, and even just enjoy nature like our beautiful springs with ICY cold waters. Plus gardens and museums. You could easily make a day out of Mills Avenue outside of Downtown or the Winter Park area. We also have SO MANY awesome places to eat so PLEASE don't just eat at chains. Check out local places even if they look a bit dumpy or small and basic, the food will probably be way better and better priced than at a chain. And for the theme parks, a fast pass at Disney is different than a fast pass at Universal. Act like a brat at customer service in Disney and they'll do their best to make up for it, act like a brat at Universal and you'll get the minimum in return. I have friends who are/were at guest service at Universal and the nicer you are the more they gave you.

[@vibecity9191]

You forgot the school shootings

[@FenTastic18]

Orlando is a city designed with tourists in mind as opposed to a popular city with small sections meant to entice tourists (like New York or other such cities with “tourist trap” locations; Orlando /is/ the tourist trap)

[@jeffc1347]

Of all the things to see in Orlando...you recommend Mills ave to tourists...really?? I definitely would not recommend leaving what you're doing, sitting in Orlando traffic for an hour just to get some food, then having to sit in traffic again going all the way back to whatever you want to do next.

[@Kbtoy789]

Sarah Wasser Not really. Only the SW part of Orlando is like that. Nothing North of Conroy, including Downtown, Winter Park, etc., is designed to entice tourists. There are, in fact, “tourist trap locations,” and they are the Disney area, Universal and I-Drive. The majority of Orlando is not a tourist trap by any means.

[@cindyyu9626]

What local restaurants would you recommend?

[@astroAntagonist]

Two things: 1). Fall is one of the best times to go to Orlando if you want to avoid crowds. However remember that hurricane season lasts all the way through November and is commonly the most active from late July to early October. So just try to be safe, while down here, no vacation is worth losing your life! 2). A little background to the customer service is simply: the people at disney and universal are happier because they are paid better. Disney and Universal both have company-set minimum wages that are currently at $13 and will continue to rise gradually to $15. However the state of Florida has a low minimum wage at $8.45. When you combine that with the droves of tourists that are in Orlando, year round, it puts a lot of stress on service industry workers. So next time you're vacationing in Orlando; DO be kind and have some patience, whatever inconvenience you have is likely that service worker's day-to-day.

[@RealMysticalMan]

I'm a Floridian, and I haven't experienced super crazy hurricanes, but they can happen. Hurricane Andrew was very dangerous and deadly.

[@aranchuica965]

many disney employees are also part of the college program. so they're college age kids that choose to come down to florida and work their for a while, it makes sense they would have better service

[@mattcowan]

Don't forget things like Kennedy Space Center, Sea World and Fun Spot.

[@benjiboyoing]

And legoland

[@sarty88]

Funspot Kissimme??

[@cilliankavanagh2590]

Kennedy and seaworld were amazing when i was there

[@PapaTiburon407]

Both funspot are great. Orlando has more rides, Kissimmee has old town Kissimmee.

[@chanti4786]

Kennedy space center isn’t in Orlando lol

[@alicehamdi2475]

People think the same about California and beaches. Great video, thanks.

[@chowt002]

Okay seriously who thinks feeding an alligator is a good idea

[@woltersworld]

you would be surprised... just look up online

[@ErinDavila76]

I live in Florida. Its probably tourists doing it lol

[@KanyeTheGayFish69]

chowt c Florida man

[@chowt002]

@@ErinDavila76 speaking as someone from England where the most dangerous animal is a group of cows even I wouldn't think of it, makes sense though

[@chowt002]

@@woltersworld yes I suppose if you've never dealt with an animal you'd have no idea. I remember once on my uni campus (in Brighton England) I saw two foreign students near a fox, at first I thought they were just looking at it but next thing you know they're going in to pet it and of course it lashes back at them (whether they'd never dealt with city foxes or foxes in general I'm not sure). Still in comparison an alligator just looks kinda... I dunno... Like it could kill you?

[@Rite1010.]

A tip/don't for those traveling to Disney World or other themeparks that sell balloons. Do not bring your INFLATED balloon through TSA. Do take your inflated balloon to either the Disney Resort desk OR the Disney Store inside the Orlando International Airport to be safely deflate so it does not break into amillion pieces. They also replace them deflated if that happened. Can't tell you how many kids cry because the parents did not know that and TSA says they cannot take it through inflated...so it gets thrown away by mom and dad. Also don't wear all your theme park gear to other theme parks. It is insulting to them and some will point it out (like in a passive aggressive type way) Plus it makes you stand out to potential theives. Don't buy your Souvenirs at the parks. There are many shops outside the parks on International Drive that sell the exact same items (or out of season items) for 1/4 the price....this includes embroidered mickey ears, shamoo lunch boxes, lego build your own cups, wands etc etc. Do bring your own lunch when you can. (Legoland is the exception they don't allow it) Bring/buy a refill drink cup for the frozen stuff. And USE IT. Bring it back and just get the stickers for the parks that do it. Check out the museums like the Titanic Museum which does daily shows and sometimes dinners.

[@resqbarbie13]

I enjoy your videos but i have to disagree with you about non friendly people outside of Disney. I moved here 8 years ago from New York and it took me a while to get used to how friendly people are here. Just going into Publix here is awesome, most people are very friendly .... if you are friendly to them also. What we see in Orlando is tourists who treat locals like we are there to enhance their vacation instead of realizing that we actually LIVE here and they are visiting us. I think if tourists (anywhere not just in Orlando) are respectful and pleasant, they will find many locals will be as well. Thanks for your videos!

[@olgashenfeld7882]

The don’t I learned the hard way: Don’t take an airport shuttle 1. It’s just as expensive as an Uber for three people. 2. It takes forever. Great video.

[@woltersworld]

Yeah. transport fun fun fun in orlando could be its own video :)

[@keatanramnarain8017]

I highly recommend touring Pine Hills and Mercy Drive at night . Very scenic places

[@diamonddimensiontarot1860]

Keatan please don’t forget Richmond heights and carver shores

[@thatlawyercancook8095]

Lmao I was waiting for this comment.

[@HaunaMyKiki]

Take a leisurely stroll along Orange Blossom Trail if you're looking for a good time 😉

[@bridgesfamilyof4]

@@HaunaMyKiki Oh the wonders they will See, Its a magical place almost as magical as Disney

[@s6otti]

Keatan LMAOOOOO

[@Needsmoreflash]

Born and raised in Orlando. I've travelled the world but I dont think I'd ever leave my home. It's true the people can be rude sometimes and we have to deal with hurricanes and heat but everyday of my life is a vacation. There's always something to do. The scenery and wildlife are beautiful. I couldn't live without my gators and sand cranes. Beaches aren't too far away. There are soooo many theme parks to go to. One thing that's going away here are the orange groves. I'm gonna miss the sweet smell when they're all gone. Everything is getting destroyed for tourists and hotels.

[@sabus1265]

I've lived in orlando for 8 years and I hate it. Parks are crazy expensive and I've been on every ride once you go theres nothing else, only thing here is consumerism. Theres no culture and the people are a hit or miss. Tampa is much better in my opinion, fresh breeze and more peace and quiet than orlando, only problem is the slums

[@youtuber6185]

Tourists , please use an Uber rather than renting a car. Signed , All Orlando Residents

[@Shadowlight923]

Appreciated and noted

[@s6otti]

Maverick_is _right_ let me second this

[@ccanela28]

I had 4 uber drivers while in Orlando, 3 didn't really know were they were going. Omg and don't get me started on all the constructions.

[@s6otti]

ccanela28 or taxi

[@theresepritiken2613]

November in Orlando was awesome. My don't: Don't do the TimeShares! They are everywhere!

[@RunTheAtlas]

The beach is sooo far. I liked St Augustine as a cool day trip. Very historic and under the radar.

[@woltersworld]

faaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaar :)

[@yari139]

What?! The beach is only 30 - 45 minutes away depending on traffic and how fast you drive. Typically, 45 minutes to get to Cocoa Beach on the 528 at the most, which is a pretty nice beach and most of the time is not super crowded like Daytona or New Smyrna.

[@Newcastlecraze]

Great tips that helped me when visiting Orlando. Another tip for people wanting to use public transport instead of rental cars... itrolley is a bus that goes up and down international drive. From my knowledgeable it’s around $1.25 one way which can get expensive over a 14 day break. Speak to your hotel or the bus drivers about the 2/7/14/21 day passes that get you unlimited travel on the system for anywhere between $5-30 for the pass! Even after 2 days of travel we would have spent the same buying singles as oppose to the pass!

[@JustJenRx]

I just spent the day at Discovery Cove with my boys. Their customer service was on point. There’s so much to do here, you won’t be bored at all! You can swim and interact with dolphins, and do the animal trek. I did that, plus upgraded bar pass. Well worth every penny!!! Everyone here was just exceptionally friendly and accommodating!!!

[@woltersworld]

That's cool

[@bigskyadventures1780]

Totally agree with your comment about driving, either a speedway or a parking lot. Be careful out there!

[@nathanjw940]

Check out the springs around Orlando. Beautiful, great swimming, kayaking, snorkeling and cheap.

[@danivonne]

😂Either a race track or parking lot! So true! 😂 As an Orlando resident I don’t know why I watched this but it was entertaining.

[@DutchSancho]

If you're not from the US like me, don't forget to visit a basketballgame from Orlando Magic in Amway Stadium. Even if you don't like basketball or don't know anything about it (like me), you WILL like it. Great energy and vibe in the stadium, I consider it as one of my best memories from Orlando.

[@cptkangaroo1923]

As a Floridian I'd say be prepared for a different climate, snakes, insects etc. Some "free" activities: City walk, downtown disney (whatever they're calling it this week) are free, besides parking now. Use the buses there to go to all of the Disney hotels and the boats at downtown disney, to sample their foods and explore their activities on property. Hit up the contemporary resort balcony to catch the fireworks from disney at night. Planet Hollywood and O' hannas are my two all time date restaurants.

[@dustgreylynx]

Was anybody looking dreadfully at the lake all the video waiting for an alligator to appear ?

[@bridgesfamilyof4]

We have Gators in every ditch and pond in Florida. An old friend of mine held the record for biggest Gator killed in the gator hunt 14feet 8inches new record hit over 15 feet

[@beckymaggie4606]

yes!

[@georgemartin4963]

Central Florida is a definite two week vacation. Or if a local, a full year of weekends!😀

[@woltersworld]

there you go!

[@saltyoldwoman]

I'm from Orlando, born and raised. And this was a good video! You really hit all the important tips 👍

[@MattGamerUtlimate]

Yes, Orlando is very expensive.. but, you are going to have a unforgettable and truly world class experience.

[@cryzmyth]

9:00 is probably the most important tip he gives no matter where you are. Making the mistake of wearing flip-flops (and suiting out your child in flimsy Tevas) instead of walking shoes can even cause fights when you're on vacation.

[@Newcastlecraze]

Another tip is when visiting the parks (universal, Disney, sea world, etc) get there for opening!! We completed all the rides by 11-12 and instead of spending money on the ridiculously overpriced food in the parks, we went outside the parks. Don’t stress if you don’t get everything done in one day, if your on a 14 day break you will find yourself having spare days where you can re-visit some of the parks to get on the rides you missed

[@RealMysticalMan]

As a Floridian who lives in smaller places here is what I have to say. When people think of Florida, they think of Florida man, Miami, Tampa, and Orlando. But when you go to the smaller places, you still find a beauty there. Also, Orlando HAS TONS of gators. Always keep an eye out when you're close to water.

[@kcmagicgirl5516]

Don't take Flash pictures in dark rides and in dark shows

[@beachrunner428]

You can go to Cocoa Beach from Orlando. Its about an hour and an easy drive. Living beach side we go to Orlando all the time for parks on the weekends

[@SternButFair]

"Don't worry about the price, enjoy the experience... deal with the money later" as a twice a year visitor from PA who has spent over $1k on Transformers, VIP tours, character dinners, this is the best advice ever

[@heatherspisak1762]

The person who owns the vehicle at 4:48 lives in Winter Haven. I see that car everyday and it never gets old 😂

[@tallflguy]

Thank you for warning people about not messing around with gators. I couldn’t tell you the amount of times I had to rescue tourists for doing something stupid like swimming in the lakes down here.

[@woltersworld]

I have made sure to put that in all our Florida, Orlando, and Tampa videos because you are right it is a serious thing and people don't take it serious enough.

[@Primalxbeast]

The gators aren't really the reason that we don't swim in lakes. We swim in plenty of springs with gators, it's the microorganisms that grow in warm stagnant water that make it a bad idea to swim in the lakes. I definitely wouldn't suggest having a small dog or child near a lake, and I'm glad he mentioned to not feed gators because that's what makes them dangerous.

[@woltersworld]

@@Primalxbeast Yeah, the marshmellow throwers... talking to them :)

[@ennoidyam]

You don't have to "Book 6 months in advance" to see a princess or any character at Disneyworld. Disney characters are all over at Disneyworld and they go to specifc spots at specific times throughout the day to meet guests ( called "Meet & Greets). The exact times amd places that they will be out for M&G are listed on the MyDisney App, which anyone can download, and on the the parl maps which you can pick up at the park entrances on your way in. Then all you do is look and see the character you want and where they are and show up. There will be a line of course but with some you can even fast pass which will let you jump ahead (those you CAN book ahead of time or same day) and other M&G's have multiple characters that u can meet at the same time. And there are some that "roam" - (walk around randomly) that you can also stop and grab a pic with. Or, you might be walking along and see a charcter with a line of peole waiting to take pics --just jump in line. But ALL pf this can be done on the same day and at the spur of the moment - no "reservation" required. Just look at the app normal and go to wherever that character is. What needs RESERVATIONS is if you want to DINE with a character. There are many restaurants in Disneyworld where characters come out while you are eating. Those restaurants are very populat and yes, you do need to reserve that ahead of time.

[@kayleesmith4933]

Central Florida native here. There is great service outside of the tourist areas and they’re not a long drive. If you’re at tourist restaurants, you get tourist service. Downtown Orlando, Winter Park etc all have great restaurnats and great serviceClearwater is a sketchy and dirty beach. SIesta Key and Anna Maria are nice. New Smyrna Beach is “Orlando’s favorite beach”.

[@OrdinaryDude]

Staying on-premises in the Disney universe is really nice. There are trams, buses, and I hear a new gondola that are at your disposal to get you around. I can't imagine being out of the Disney area, it would be difficult to go rest - especially with little kids - or getting to other parks/resorts.

[@juliejensen7370]

If you want to pay an arm and leg, stay on premises.

[@hannamariewilson]

Totally love doing that! Take a stack of hotel pamphlets and looking through things to do

[@MidnightAspec]

I can definitely attest to the advice regarding down time between parks. All that theme park action though fun can and will burn you out before long.

[@geezerglide54]

Great advice. We live near Tampa and have a RV. We took our 4 y/o grandson (and his parents :) ) to Ft. Wilderness .. Didn't even go to a Disney Park. He had a lot of fun riding the boat ride from Ft. Wilderness to the Contemporary Hotel, the Monorail from the Contemporary out and back, playing in the kiddie pools at the campground and in the playgrounds, roasting marshmallows at the Chip and Dale Campfire. So, much to do there for a small child when they might be overwhelmed by a visit to a Disney Park. BTW, similar experiences can be had at on property hotels and if you don't have a RV Ft. Wilderness has cabins for rent.

[@ScallywagBeowulf]

I don't even know why I'm watching this! I've been to Orlando at least ten times

[@jackier3046]

Here’s some advice for anybody planning on going to Disney. They sometimes offers special ticketed events called After Hours where you get to spend some more time inside of the parks after everybody else leaves. It’s only a little over $100 per person but totally worth it. You get free refreshments and ice cream and you also get to ride all the rides with very little wait time whereas during the day, you would probably have to wait over an hour to ride it. *It’s not Extra Magic Hours where if you stay at a Disney resort, you get to go in the parks early. This is something different!*

[@seth556]

Few things: MCO is way better and way closer than the other airports. “Orlando Melbourne Airport” is at least an hour drive before you get to any place that’d be considered Orlando. As far as service, idrive and other tourist trap areas will generally have poor service. If you want good service at non Disney places you need to go towards downtown to escape the tourist side of town. There’s a loads of great local restaurants and things to do like Winter Park where you won’t be labeled as a tourist (sucker).

[@McFlysGarage]

I watched these videos for Germany and now I’m watching him literally in my back yard

[@krugmeister7301]

...I Like Bush Gardens....Sunken Gardens....It was A Fun time during the 80's...

[@samanthasorkin7999]

As a local, I can confirm all these tips are super helpful! I will say though there is exceptional service to be found off site of Universal and Disney. If you deviate from the large corporate chains, you are bound to find wonderful restaurant service!

[@brianwinters2131]

I love orlando area. I especially love universal.

[@freedominabudget]

Awesome tips!! Staying on property is a game changer for the Disney experience!

[@sandragrant5540]

As a resident of Orlando, I must disagree with the notion that all service outside Disney is bad service. This is true when you are in the tourist areas in restaurants, etc that pretty much serve only tourists. On that, you are right. They don't have to worry about building clientele if they serve mostly tourists. BUT....there are entire residential areas of Orlando where you'd never know you were within 30 min of Disney. There are awesome little neighborhoods and lots of great food AND good service. There is historic Winter Park, Church Street, Thornton Park, Lake Eola... Respectfully, this is more of a video on visiting the Orlando theme parks, not Olrando

[@jeffc1347]

I think he is talking more about I-Drive and 192 where sadly service is terrible.

[@Newcastlecraze]

Another tip when visiting the outlet stores (both ends of international drive) if you visit the information desks within the outlet stores, they will have voucher booklets that you can buy for around $5 which give you MEGA savings off shops! We saved around $50 in Michael Kors on one shop so highly recommend

[@michaelmonn9308]

A fun side trip/ break day activity that my girls really enjoyed was a sunrise/sunset day. Early morning trip to see the sunrise over the Atlantic ocean (for us Cocoa Beach), a relaxing day in the middle, and a beautiful sunset over the gulf of Mexico (for us Clearwater beach). The kids slept in the car most of the way. Beautiful and relaxing way to get out of the chaos of Orlando.

[@woltersworld]

Good call Michael!

[@Yolanda_Ortiz]

We drive every year from NY straight to Orlando we never book hotels or buy tickets in advance or characters dining we just got back our 18th straight vacation. We get up and say we leave today or tomorrow pack the car and out we go. Take our time 2-3 days on the road. When we reach Orlando we go into either Cabana Bay or Drury Inn no reservations. There are always rooms available. We’ve done character dining with the princess’s and other characters with no reservations. And it’s been great. We know Florida so well my husband uses no gps we love Florida

[@ShineJunkieXavi]

Omg!!! THANK YOU!! I live here and u need to share this to ppls from up north!! Who dont understand here!! I'm going to share this!!

[@arescue]

January is pretty good for Disney.

[@woltersworld]

January post January 4th :) when kids around US are back in school

[@latashan8154]

This is a great video. You got straight to the point and had a lot of quick tips without rambling. Please do more videos!

[@FenTastic18]

Orlando native here: keep your eye on the weather (I use DarkSky as it is super accurate down to minutes) and don’t even consider coming during hurricane season as your flights, cruises, etc. will likely be delayed or outright canceled (so if you are coming, make sure you’re not arriving the day of your cruise boarding as you will be stuck if it gets canceled, at least find the airport/nearest hotel if that happens)

[@FenTastic18]

Hidden benefit of hurricane season for us locals though: Disney is like /super/ empty right now by /Disney/ standards... like I’m talking “30 minutes to get on Dwarves Mine Train in the middle of Not So Scary” empty; and if you find yourself stranded in Florida during a hurricane: please follow the safety instructions and evacuate if you are instructed to

[@jrocco36]

As a Florida Resident some advice. Please consider that any body of fresh water contains atleast one Alligator, Do not let yourselves or your small children or pets anywhere near them. Also when visiting the beaches anywhere in Florida NEVER FEED THE DAM SEAGULLS! Seagulls are nothing more then winged rats and will crap on you the first chance they get...

[@joejohnson2594]

There are swamps here in Central Florida but that's a retention pond you're standing in front of.

[@matsigeskog5]

As a swede I appreciate the shirts your kids are wearing :)

[@sburris65]

When I go to Disney, I always stay at the all star resorts and find them comparable to other hotels in Orlando. I dont go to Disney to stay in my room. And you can always visit the other resorts!

[@ThunderStruck15]

Susan McKinney I think pop century is significantly better for not much more.

[@sburris65]

@@ThunderStruck15 ...it was. But we priced it out first and the rates have gone up much more since they have the gondolas.

[@QueenRosez]

A little tip: During the month of September through November, Universal Studios has an event during the evening that runs to the late night called Halloween Horror Nights. It's super fun but not kid-friendly unless your child enjoys horror! It's a great even to go to if you want a scare during the spooky season!

[@Luv2tickt]

Best beach in the US is Siesta Key Beach! Not knocking Clearwater beach, but Siesta Key is where it's at!

[@TheBensonReview]

don't worry mark, i'll stay hydrated ;)

[@rickbadgerdaddy11]

I just visited a week ago for that week. I had such a great time! I wish I lived there lol

[@catherineduncan6611]

I LOVE your videos. They are so helpful

[@hippychikforever]

As a local, I urge you to check out Old Florida charm. Kelly Park in Apopka (only 30 minutes north of Universal) is tied into the Wekiva Springs and has a place you can tube. Tubes are for rent outside the park $15 each and admission is only $6 per carload. Pack a picnic lunch and you have a low cost, fun family day. If you are here in early February, don't miss Blue Springs state park where you can see the manatees.

[@Mintman83]

I live 2 hours away by the beaches and I do not recommend getting anywhere on time the because traffic is bad. Don’t expect anything to be cheap anywhere near Disney either. On the flip side I go to a lot of Magic games which are fun.

[@raokartikr]

Thank you from London, UK. Very informative. A video about driving, parking and tolls will be useful.

[@marcjsolis]

I haven’t been to Orlando in a hot minute, but if I had to choose between visiting Universal or Disney, I’m going with Universal. I think the themes are cooler, I’m a huge Jurassic Park(World) guy, and the rides are more thrilling.

[@clouduos]

Thanks a lot man I appreciate it, I'm visiting Orlando with my wife and the little one For a week this weekend:). Thanks a lot for the tips and hope it's not very busy

[@Torytel1230]

I believe I've seen u before and this video again satisfied me as well as the first one. Thanks for a practical Don't video so I can prepare my trip to Orlando next week~

[@johnlochness]

We've been to Orlando lots of times and we love it ( and we don't even have kids). The waterparks are great for break days.

[@rocma6908]

Welcome to Florida Mark!

[@susanrobinet9756]

Great video, I lived there for a decade and you nailed it. You started with alligators (thank you) and even got the part about how dangerous traffic is by the theme parks since no one knows where they're going, I worked at Disney and there were horrible deadly accidents once a week, great tips!!

[@valenn44]

Spot on my friend 👌 September is the slowest season in Orlando.

[@1SALADLOVER]

Lived there 12 years~ Don't forget wonderful Kennedy Space Center one hour away; AND, you can hit Cocoa Beach........great day trip! (Just be aware of lightning alley Orlando. Got caught in dangerous storm at Seaworld - we ended up in parking lot during intense storm, pitch black, unable to find our car. NICE)

[@Sandra-A]

Talking hotels: if Gatorland had an on spot hotel that would be my choice 🐊💚

[@AisleorWindow]

All great advice. Mark, it seems like you have access to my calendar, all your videos seem to be very timely. I'm heading to Orlando in 2 days.

[@woltersworld]

I do what I can ;) #1984inaction

[@SunnaSveins]

Haha I came to Orlando in 2013 (going back in a month) and I have pictures of that car with the statues, stickers and Bible verses driving beside us. 😄

[@floridamaddogg]

What's wrong with Cocoa Beach or other east coast beaches? I live in Satellite Beach and it's beautiful!

[@nejerie6683]

Excellent video and content

[@MajorAddiction]

Thanks Mark. Orlando is on the to-do list for sure

[@offthebeatenpathadventures1348]

Awesome advice of not doing everything at once. It would be hard to not explore Disneyland, Harry Potter, and Universal in one trip. You'd also regret doing that. We always try to keep days open of vacation for recovering or just to explore. In Iceland, we'd pull off the road and walk to waterfalls or tidal areas that we hadn't scheduled.

[@FenTastic18]

You could try it at Disneyland (California) but if you tried it here at Walt Disney World (Orlando) your feet would want to fall off...

[@offthebeatenpathadventures1348]

@@FenTastic18 true, and I'd rather not wear the family out. Plus, I want to explore an area of Disney world and really enjoy it. I can't wait to go one day. Is the park worth visiting? On travel and exploring, I try to treat things like how I scuba dive now. I don't try to see everything in one dive. I try to focus on one area and take it all in.

[@samsasimmer]

I’ve been in Orlando twice. Never been to Disney and I definitely regret it.

[@janeadams8355]

Orlando is one of my favorite places. Haha I am amazed that people see alligators as tame.

[@srairmand]

Don't stop if you get lost in Pine Hills or Mercy Drive.

[@ChingMih]

On our last trip, when all adults on our group went shopping. I get our all 6 kids and have a great and funny day in Gatorland. On another shopping day, I just drive East to the beaches near Melbourne. Kids does not need too much to have fun. Also a good thing to do between park days.