A trip to Orlando is always special, and we know you will want to make the most of it. Here are some things you should know before you go.
Here are some quick tips on getting around Orlando once you’ve arrived.
- Taxis, shuttle vans, private car pick-ups and ride-share services such as Uber and Lyft are available just outside the door on the baggage claim level at both Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB).
- Many Orlando hotels and resorts offer complimentary airport shuttles. Check to see if yours does before leaving home.
- Drivers using Orlando-area toll roads should note the “Exact Change Only” and “Change and Receipts” toll lanes, as well as those marked for use only by vehicles with SunPass and E-Pass transponders. Tollbooths do not accept credit cards, and transponder-only lanes will not accept cash.
- In Central Florida, taxes on purchases range from 6% to 7% on all merchandise except “necessary” grocery items and medicine.
- In Orlando and Orange County, a 6% resort tax is imposed on all hotel rooms in addition to 6.5% sales tax.
Orlando’s businesses work closely with health experts and local governments to help ensure your health and safety. These businesses include trusted theme park brands, attractions, hoteliers, restaurants, retailers, cultural centers and many other venues.
And now, Visit Orlando is proud to partner with Orlando Health, a not-for-profit healthcare organization that serves the southeastern United States. As the Official Health and Wellness Partner of Visit Orlando, Orlando Health offers health-related benefits for the millions of travelers who help make Orlando the Theme Park Capital of the World, including access to high-quality, health-related options and medical services, as well as valuable health information.
In short, Orlando Health is your one-stop source for any health-related questions or needs while adventuring in Orlando. Visit our Healthy Travel page for the latest information and travel tips
Beginning May 3, 2023, domestic U.S. travelers who wish to fly on commercial aircraft will be required to possess a REAL ID-compliant card issued by their state’s driver’s-licensing agency, or an acceptable alternative such as a U.S. passport. All U.S. states are required to issue REAL ID-compliant cards by the same date.
Domestic travelers who do not have REAL ID-compliant cards or an acceptable alternative will not be permitted to access federal facilities, which include TSA airport security checkpoints. Children under 18 will be exempt from REAL ID requirements when traveling with an adult companion with acceptable identification. (Travelers from other countries can read about U.S. entry requirements here.)
If you are planning a domestic trip to Orlando on or after May 7, 2025, please ensure that you have REAL ID-compliant identification or an acceptable alternative before arriving at your airport. The upper top portion of REAL ID-compliant cards will have one of five markings: a gold star, a black star, a gold circle with white star, a black circle with white star, or a gold bear with white star.
To obtain a REAL ID-compliant card, visit your state’s driver’s-licensing agency website to learn what your state requires to obtain a REAL ID. At a minimum, you will need to provide documentation for your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of principal residence, and lawful U.S. status.
As of Sept. 5, 2019, 50 U.S. states and territories are fully compliant with REAL ID requirements, and all states will begin issuing REAL ID-compliant licenses and IDs by May 7, 2025. Additionally, Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) issued by Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards.
See visual examples of REAL ID-compliant markings and cards, and read more about the REAL ID Act.
- At full-service restaurants in Orlando and throughout the United States, tipping is customary at 15% to 25%.
- Additionally, many Orlando restaurants assess an automatic tip of 15% to 18% for larger parties.
- Sunshine and warm temperatures are hallmarks of an Orlando vacation, but keep in mind that afternoon rain is common during summer months.
- Expect daytime highs around 69° F (21° F) from December through February, with June through September temperatures rising to 89° F (32° C).
- Orlando hosts a wealth of annual events, including seasonal, holiday and cultural celebrations.
- Visit Orlando's calendar of events will help you easily plan your trip.
- Orlando and its surrounding areas primarily use three area codes: (407), (321) and (689).
- Here are important phone numbers to keep handy during your visit to Orlando:
- Emergencies (Police/Fire/Ambulance): 911
- Directory Assistance: 411
- Orlando's Official Visitor Services: +1 (407) 363-5872
You can get authorized discounted theme park and attraction tickets from Visit Orlando powered by BestofOrlando.com.
- Our friendly, knowledgeable Vacation Planning Services team can answer questions and assist you with planning via Live Chat and telephone at +1 (407) 363-5872.
- If you are a meeting planner wanting to find out more information about doing business in Orlando, please visit our Meetings & Conventions website.
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You will never run out of one-of-a-kind adventures in Orlando. See what else is waiting to amaze you.