Orlando Airport Sleeping: A Guide To Catching Some Zzz's

how to sleep in orlando airport

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the busiest airport in Florida, serving over 57 million passengers annually. With a central position in Florida and proximity to major attractions such as Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando, it is a popular airport for many travellers. If you're planning to sleep in Orlando Airport, there are a few things to keep in mind. While there are no dedicated sleeping areas, there are informal spots with padded couches, and a hotel atrium between Terminal A and Terminal B that offers a quiet space to rest. The airport is open 24 hours in the landside areas, and staff do not seem to mind sleeping travellers. However, if you're looking for uninterrupted sleep, there is a hotel located pre-security in the main terminal, and several other nearby hotels accessible by free airport shuttles.

Characteristics Values
Airport Name Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Location 1 Jeff Fuqua Blvd., Orlando, FL 32827
Phone Number 407-825-2352
Website flymco.com
Terminals 1 main building with 2 sides (A and B) and a separate Terminal C
Sleeping Areas No dedicated sleeping areas, but padded couches are available in informal spots around the terminal. The hotel atrium between Terminal A and Terminal B is also a relaxing spot to wait.
Hotels A hotel is located pre-security in the main terminal, and several other hotels are accessible by free airport shuttles. Day rooms are available at the Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport, located inside the main terminal, for a lower price during the day.
Safety No reports of safety issues from travellers, but staff will wake you up if you sleep in the hotel lobby. Security personnel can advise on the safest places to spend the night.
WiFi Free unlimited WiFi is available. Connect to the "MCO Internet" network.
Transportation Ground transportation includes buses, ride-shares, shuttles, taxis, and trains.

shunhotel

Sleeping spots in the airport

Orlando International Airport does not have dedicated sleeping areas, quiet areas, or rest zones. However, travellers can find informal spots with padded couches around the terminal. The area in front of Universal Orlando, within the terminal, has cosy, curved couches and lounge chairs, with nearby payphones, bathrooms, and eateries. Security patrols frequently, but sleepers are usually left undisturbed. For added security, you can secure yourself to a chair with a purse or suitcase.

Outside security, there are plenty of spots to nap overnight, although it may not be comfortable. The airside areas near Gates 56 and 58 are quieter and warmer, providing a peaceful environment for rest after cleaning activities cease around 1:30 am. Generally, all padded seats in Gates 70 to 150 are good sleep options, but the lack of benches and noise from cleaning crews can be drawbacks. Landside options such as the food court before security and the car rental area have more comfortable seating but suffer from significant noise and bright lighting.

If you prefer the comfort and privacy of a hotel room without leaving the airport premises, there are a few options. The Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport is located inside the main terminal on Level 4, above the security entrance to Gates 60-129. They offer day rooms between 10:00 and 18:00. There is also a hotel atrium between Terminals A and B that offers a relaxing spot to wait.

shunhotel

Safety precautions

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the seventh busiest airport in the US, serving over 57 million passengers annually. Sleeping in any airport may include a certain level of risk, especially when travelling alone, so it's important to take precautions to ensure your safety and the security of your valuables. Here are some safety precautions to consider when sleeping in Orlando Airport:

  • Security Office and Video Cameras: Know the location of the security office and look for video cameras near your sleeping area. The presence of security personnel and surveillance can help deter potential crimes and provide assistance in case of an emergency.
  • Stay in Well-Lit, Populated Areas: Avoid secluded areas and try to stay in well-lit spaces near other travellers or close to security. Sleeping in populated areas can provide an extra layer of security and help deter any unwanted attention.
  • Look After Your Belongings: Keep your valuables secure and within sight at all times. Consider using a money belt or a hidden pouch to safeguard your passport, cash, and other important items. Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings to lower the risk of theft or loss.
  • Ask for Advice: Don't hesitate to ask security personnel for advice on the safest places to spend the night. They can provide valuable insights into areas to avoid and those that are generally considered safe.
  • Consider a Day Room: If you need more privacy and security, consider renting a day room at an airport hotel. These rooms are typically available for 8-hour blocks at a lower price than a standard night's stay, and they can provide a more comfortable and secure sleeping environment.
  • Stay Alert: If you need to stay awake for a period, avoid excessive caffeine too close to your desired bedtime. Instead, stay alert by drinking coffee or other caffeinated beverages earlier in the day. This will help you stay sharp and avoid disturbing your sleep later.
  • Be Aware of Security Rounds: If you choose to sleep in the public zone, be prepared for early morning wake-up calls by security personnel. They are known to make rounds and wake people up as travellers arrive for morning flights.

shunhotel

Hotels in the airport

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is located 8.7 miles (14.1 km) from Orlando city centre. There are several hotels within close proximity to the airport, offering a range of amenities and services. Here are some options for hotels located near the airport:

Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport

This hotel is the closest to the airport, located just 0.2 miles (0.3 km) away. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to find further details about this hotel.

Hyatt House Orlando Airport

Hyatt House Orlando Airport is located minutes away from the airport and offers luxury accommodations. Guests have praised the friendly and competent staff, as well as the free shuttle service to nearby Disney attractions. The hotel provides an excellent ambiance and great value for those visiting Disney.

Homewood Suites by Hilton Orlando Airport

Located 1.35 miles from the airport, this hotel offers free breakfast, an outdoor pool, and private parking. It is also situated just 7.1 miles from the Florida Mall.

Hilton Garden Inn Orlando Airport

Just 1.38 miles from the airport, this hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a restaurant, and a bar. It provides a complimentary airport shuttle service and is praised for its excellent facilities and proximity to the airport.

Hampton Inn & Suites Orlando Airport @ Gateway Village

Situated 1.31 miles from the airport, this hotel offers free breakfast, free parking, and an outdoor pool.

Other Notable Mentions:

  • SpringHill Suites by Marriott Orlando Lake Nona (3-star hotel with an outdoor swimming pool, free bikes, and a shared lounge)
  • Residence Inn by Marriott Orlando Lake Nona (provides air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi and a complimentary breakfast)
  • Sonesta Essential Orlando (located 5.2 miles from the airport, offering free WiFi and a daily breakfast)
  • Courtyard Orlando Airport (2 miles from the airport with a free airport shuttle, an outdoor pool, and free WiFi)

shunhotel

Nearby hotels

If you're looking for a more comfortable sleep during a long layover at Orlando Airport, there are several nearby hotels to choose from. The airport itself is located just 6 miles (9.5 km) from the city of Orlando, so you'll have plenty of options for accommodation.

First, there is a hotel located inside the main terminal, pre-security, on level 4, above the security entrance to Gates 60-129. This hotel, the Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport, offers day rooms between 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. The hotel also has a chapel where Catholic mass is held every Sunday at 8:15 a.m. and 12:00 p.m., and some room balconies that open onto the atrium on the east side of the terminal.

If you'd prefer a different option, there are several other hotels near the airport that provide free airport shuttles. These include:

  • Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando Airport
  • Fairfield Inn by Marriott Orlando Airport
  • Hampton Inn & Suites Orlando Airport at Gateway Village

These hotels can provide a comfortable and convenient place to rest during your layover, and the free shuttles make it easy to get back to the airport for your next flight. Additionally, some hotels offer day rooms for an 8-hour rental at a lower price, which can be a great option if you're looking to save some money.

shunhotel

Ground transportation

Orlando International Airport (MCO) offers a variety of ground transportation options for travellers. Here is some essential information to help you navigate your way to and from the airport:

Public Transportation

The Lynx bus service provides an affordable and convenient way to get to and from the airport. Buses depart from Terminal A's Commercial Lane spaces A38-A41 on the Ground Transportation Level and travel to various destinations, including downtown Orlando, International Drive, Florida Mall/SeaWorld, and the Sand Lake Road SunRail station. The fare is a mere $2.00, and connecting routes are available. The SunRail is a commuter train system that services the Orlando metropolitan area and connects to the airport via the Lynx bus line.

Hotel Shuttles

Many hotels in the area provide shuttle services to and from the airport, making it convenient for travellers. The hotel shuttle bus stop is located at Terminal B's Commercial Lane spaces B42-B47 on the Ground Transportation Level. Some of the hotels offering this service include Avid Hotel, Cambria Hotel, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Courtyard by Marriott, and DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, among others.

Rental Cars

Major car rental agencies operate on-site at the airport, with check-in desks located on the Ground Transportation Level (Level 1) of Terminals A and B. This eliminates the need for a shuttle bus service to a separate rental area. Some of the rental car agencies available include Advantage, Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty.

Ride-sharing Services

Ride-sharing platforms such as Uber and Lyft are also an option for travellers. According to a traveller's report, Uber and Lyft rides can be accessed from Level 2 of both Terminals A and B. For Terminal A, riders should choose door 14 or door 3, while for Terminal B, doors 20 or 32 are recommended.

Additionally, Mears Transportation provides a shared ride shuttle service and chauffeured transportation to and from MCO Airport.

Frequently asked questions

The airport staff do not seem to have an issue with sleeping travellers, even those staying overnight. There have been no reports of safety issues at the airport, however, travellers are advised to take precautions to ensure the safety of their valuables.

No, there are no dedicated sleeping areas, quiet areas or rest zones in the airport. However, there are informal spots with padded couches around the terminal where you can get some rest.

Yes, there is a hotel located pre-security in the main terminal, and several other hotels accessible by free airport shuttles. The Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport is located inside the main terminal on level 4, directly above the security entrance to Gates 60-129. They offer day rooms between 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.

Yes, if you go up the escalator to the hotel and turn right into the bar, there are some comfortable couches and it is pretty quiet. Also, there are spots outside security where you can nap overnight. If you don't want to carry your bags around, you can leave them at Hold My Luggage in the airport.

If you sleep in the public zone, you might be woken up early in the morning by security. It is recommended to stay near other travellers or close to security if you are travelling alone.

Written by
Reviewed by

Explore related products

Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment