Lois Larson
Orlando Airport (MCO) is a hub of activity, with plenty of options to keep travellers entertained during layovers, whether short or long. The airport itself boasts an array of dining and shopping options, art exhibits, lounges, and unique amenities. For those with longer layovers, downtown Orlando and its surrounding attractions, including theme parks, museums, and entertainment hubs, are just a short ride away. With efficient transportation options and nearby bag storage services, even a few hours can provide a glimpse of what the city has to offer.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Minimum layover time | 45 minutes |
| Recommended layover time | 4 hours |
| Things to do on a short layover | Eat, shop, watch planes, visit the airport's art exhibits, get a massage or manicure, bowl at Three Points Bowling, visit B-52 Memorial Park, or relax in the lounges |
| Things to do on a long layover | Visit downtown Orlando, the Harry P. Leu Garden, the Orlando Museum of Art, the Orlando Science Center, Nona Adventure Park, Disney Springs, Discovery Cove, or a nearby theme park |
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What You'll Learn
Where to eat and drink at Orlando Airport
Orlando International Airport (MCO) has over 170 shops and restaurants to choose from, with over 150 dining options throughout its three terminals. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a full sit-down meal, there's something for everyone.
For those who want something quick and accessible, there are well-known fast-food chains such as McDonald's, Chick-fil-A, Burger King, and Dunkin' Donuts. If you're craving something sweet, Cold Stone Creamery and Baskin-Robbins are great options for ice cream, while Cinnabon serves up delicious cinnamon rolls. You can also find Auntie Anne's in four locations throughout the airport, offering freshly baked soft pretzels and pretzel bites.
If you're looking for a sit-down meal, there are plenty of full-service restaurants to choose from. Cask & Larder is a popular choice, known for its Southern comfort food and beautiful atmosphere. If you're a sports fan, the Orlando Pride City Pub is a sports bar with large TVs and game day-inspired cuisine. For Italian cuisine, try Romano's Macaroni Grill, or head to Panda Express for Chinese dishes. Moe's Southwest Grill is perfect for Tex-Mex lovers, while Bahama Breeze is known for its fresh fish tacos. If you're craving a burger, Shake Shack in Palm Court is a good option, and Outback Steakhouse offers a range of steak options.
For those who want to relax with a drink, there are several options available. Wine Bar George in Palm Court offers a selection of wines, while the Sunshine Diner is a unique modern-day diner with a full bar and fresh fruit. The Orlando Brewing bar, located near Gates 230-238, is another option, and the Orlando Pride City Pub serves up a range of drinks alongside its game day-inspired cuisine.
With so many options to choose from, you're sure to find something to suit your taste and preferences at Orlando International Airport.
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Shopping at Orlando Airport
Orlando International Airport (MCO) offers a wide range of shopping options to keep you entertained during a layover. The airport houses over 60 shops, including airport staples like convenience stores, duty-free areas, and stores selling books, technology, perfumes, and sunglasses. You can also find Universal, Seaworld, Disney, and NASA's Johnson Space Center-themed shops, reflecting the local attractions.
For those seeking luxury, the airport features international brands like Oakley, Swarovski, and boutiques. If you're looking for souvenirs, Magic of Disney and Universal Orlando-themed gift shops offer a variety of options. Additionally, Hudson News & Gifts is noted for its convenience in offering essential items and press.
Orlando Airport also caters to different budgets. While some stores like InMotion and Orlando Market have been noted for high prices, the airport shops, in general, are considered reasonably priced. Duty-free shops like 3Sixty offer tax-free products, but their limited hours may not align with late-night flights. In contrast, shops like LEGO/Sound Accessories and Kylie Cosmetics operate 24 hours, catering to late arrivals or departures.
If you have a longer layover and wish to explore beyond the airport, The Florida Mall, Central Florida's largest shopping center, is just a short distance away. It boasts over 250 retail, dining, and entertainment options, providing an extensive shopping experience beyond what the airport offers.
So, whether you're browsing for souvenirs, luxury items, or seeking convenience and entertainment during your layover, Orlando International Airport and its surrounding areas have plenty to offer.
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Relaxation and entertainment at Orlando Airport
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is a bustling hub, serving as a gateway to one of the world's busiest tourist destinations. While the airport has received some criticism for its inefficient security operations and outdated baggage claim procedures, it offers a range of options for relaxation and entertainment during layovers.
For travellers seeking a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Orlando Airport has over 50 eateries. These range from to-go options like Burger King, Chick-fil-A, and Chipotle to sit-down restaurants such as Macaroni Grill, Ruby Tuesday, and Outback Steakhouse. The Hyatt's restaurant, Hemispheres, offers excellent runway views, while Cask & Larder provides a unique farm-to-table dining experience. Additionally, travellers can find 24-hour dining options at Dunkin' Express, McDonald's, and Starbucks in the main terminal.
The airport also boasts over 60 shops, including convenience stores, Duty-Free areas, and specialty shops for books, technology, perfumes, and sunglasses. Travellers can purchase souvenirs from shops representing Universal, Seaworld, Disney, and NASA's Johnson Space Center. Orlando Airport also features a range of permanent and rotating art exhibits, adding to the entertainment and cultural offerings.
For those seeking relaxation, the airport offers two lounges open to all travellers, regardless of airline or flight class. Economy class passengers can pay to access these lounges, enjoying amenities such as food, drinks, WiFi, shower facilities, and designated rest areas. The hotel atrium between Terminals A and B also provides a tranquil spot to unwind, although travellers report that bathrooms in this area can be scarce.
For longer layovers, travellers can explore beyond the airport. Downtown Orlando, accessible via the Lynx public bus route 11 from Terminal A, offers attractions such as the Harry P. Leu Garden, the Orlando Museum of Art, and the interactive Orlando Science Center. Lake Eola and the Thornton Park neighbourhood are ideal for those seeking a tranquil escape, with quiet cafes and a peaceful ambiance. For entertainment, Church Street is the go-to for dining and shopping, and a nearby bowling alley is perfect for shorter layovers.
Orlando is also known for its theme parks, but planning is essential as tickets often sell out in advance, and waiting in line may not be feasible during a layover. The airport itself provides access to free, unlimited WiFi, and travellers can take advantage of nearby hotels, including the Hyatt Regency located inside the airport, which offers day rooms.
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Exploring Orlando with a long layover
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the busiest airports in North America. However, a long layover in Orlando need not be boring or frustrating. With some planning, you can turn those hours into something productive and enjoyable.
If you're looking to stay in the airport, Orlando International Airport has plenty to offer. With over 50 eateries, you're spoilt for choice. There are to-go options like Burger King, Chick-fil-A, Chipotle, and Dunkin Donuts, as well as casual cafes and bakeries. For a sit-down meal, you can choose from chains like Macaroni Grill, Ruby Tuesday, and Outback Steakhouse. The airport also has permanent and rotating art exhibits, and over 60 shops, including Universal, Seaworld, Disney, and NASA’s Johnson Space Center. If you're looking to relax, Terminal Gateway Spa and XpresSpa offer salon services like manicures, pedicures, facials, and massages.
If you're looking to explore Orlando, there are several options, depending on the length of your layover. Travel experts recommend not leaving the airport if your layover is less than five to six hours. However, if you have a longer layover, you can head downtown on the Lynx public bus route 11 for just $2 one-way. The ride takes about 50 minutes, but a taxi will cut that time in half. Once downtown, you can visit the Harry P. Leu Garden, the Orlando Museum of Art, the Orlando Science Center, Lake Eola, and the cafes of Thornton Park.
If you're looking for something closer to the airport, there's a bowling alley just a 10-minute taxi ride away. ICON Park is 25 minutes away and home to "The Orlando Eye," a 400-foot observation wheel offering panoramic views of the city. There's also the Nona Adventure Park, a sprawling water-based family entertainment center with a floating inflatable obstacle course, wakeboarding, ropes courses, and climbing walls, just 14 minutes away. The Florida Mall, Central Florida's largest shopping center, is also nearby, with over 250 retail, dining, and entertainment options.
If you're travelling with kids, Kidiverse is a great option, just seven minutes from the airport. This indoor playground has a jungle gym, a slide, an obstacle course, and an interactive games room.
So, whether you're looking to stay in the airport or explore the city, there's plenty to do in Orlando during a long layover.
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Orlando attractions near the airport
Orlando is a bustling tourism hub, attracting millions of visitors each year. The city is famous for its theme parks, conventions, and entertainment offerings. If you find yourself with a long layover at Orlando International Airport, there are dozens of attractions to keep you entertained.
ICON Park
ICON Park is an entertainment destination, located a short walk from hotels on International Drive and Universal Boulevard. It offers free parking and boasts world-class attractions, shops, restaurants, and live entertainment. The Park is home to the Orlando Eye, a 400-foot-high capsule offering spectacular views of the city. You can combine tickets for the Orlando Eye with other attractions, such as SEA LIFE and Madame Tussauds. ICON Park also features the Museum of Illusions, an internationally acclaimed attraction that plays tricks on your senses. For thrill-seekers, there's the Orlando SlingShot, which catapults you 450 feet into the air, and the Pearl Express Train, a fun experience for all ages.
Nearby Attractions
If you're looking for unique experiences near the airport, you can try a gator airboat ride, just 14 minutes away. These guided tours take you through swamps and wetlands, offering an opportunity to see alligators, birds, snakes, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Nona Adventure Park, an inflatable aqua park with obstacle courses and a ropes course, is another exciting option.
For a sweet treat, the Chocolate Kingdom offers a 45-minute tour where you can learn about chocolate-making and create your own customised chocolate bar. The Crayola Experience, a colourful playground spanning 70,000 square feet, is a family-friendly attraction perfect for young children.
Theme Parks
Orlando is known for its theme parks, and there are several located within a 30-minute radius of the airport. SeaWorld Orlando, with its dolphin encounters, shark exhibits, and children's attractions, is a popular choice. Disney World, with its Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and Epcot, is also accessible during a layover. Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, which include the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, are other theme park options along International Drive.
When planning a short layover in Orlando, it's important to consider travel times and security wait times. While there are numerous attractions within a 15 to 30-minute distance, travel experts recommend allowing for potential traffic delays.
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Frequently asked questions
Orlando Airport has plenty of things to keep you occupied. You can enjoy the airport's 50+ eateries, including Burger King, Chick-fil-A, Chipotle, and Dunkin Donuts. There are also over 60 shops, including Universal, Disney, and NASA's Johnson Space Center. If you fancy a pamper, head to Terminal Gateway Spa or XpressSpa for a massage, facial, or manicure.
Travel experts recommend not leaving the airport if your layover is less than five to six hours. However, if you want to stay close by, there is a bowling alley just a nine-minute taxi ride away.
If you have a longer layover, you could visit downtown Orlando, including the Orlando Museum of Art and the Orlando Science Center. You could also visit Discovery Cove to experience Orlando's natural beauty and aquatic adventures.
Orlando Airport has a 3000-gallon aquarium in the public-area food court between Terminals A and B. There is also a B-52 Memorial Park, which features a retired B-52D Stratofortress.
