Jazmin Li
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is a bustling hub, attracting millions of tourists each year. The airport is known for its proximity to various attractions, making it a convenient gateway to the vibrant city of Orlando. With that in mind, here are some things to do and see during a layover: Sea Life Orlando Aquarium, Universal CityWalk, Marisol Park, Discovery Cove, Madame Tussauds Orlando, and more. Keep in mind that travel experts recommend avoiding leaving the airport if your layover is less than five to six hours, so be sure to check estimated travel times and security wait times before venturing out.
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What You'll Learn
- Explore the Sea Life Orlando Aquarium, home to nine exhibits and a 360-degree ocean tunnel
- Visit the peaceful Airport Park or the larger Marisol Park, just 12 minutes away
- Check out the shopping, dining, and entertainment at Universal CityWalk, free to enter
- Discover Madame Tussauds Orlando, home to lifelike wax figures of celebrities and icons
- Enjoy the rides and attractions at ICON Park, including the famous Orlando Eye
Explore the Sea Life Orlando Aquarium, home to nine exhibits and a 360-degree ocean tunnel
If you're looking for things to do near Orlando International Airport (MCO), there are plenty of options to keep you entertained. One notable attraction is the Sea Life Orlando Aquarium, located in ICON Park. This 25,000-square-foot indoor aquarium is just a short drive from the airport and boasts nine captivating exhibits, including Florida's only 360-degree ocean tunnel.
As you step into the aquarium, you'll be immersed in an underwater world filled with thousands of sea creatures. The star of the show is undoubtedly the 360-degree ocean tunnel, where you can surround yourself with sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, eels, and a multitude of tropical fish. This immersive experience gives you a front-row seat to the wonders of the ocean, with aquatic life swimming above, below, and all around you without ever getting wet.
Beyond the tunnel, Sea Life Orlando offers eight other interactive and engaging exhibits. Get up close and personal with the friendly sea stars and anemones in the Coastal Rockpool touch tank, and don't miss the chance to meet Chely, the aquarium's rescued green sea turtle. Explore the Jelly Wall, where you'll be mesmerized by the neon colours and graceful movements of jellyfish. Learn about the delicate and thriving ecosystems of the ocean and the importance of marine conservation.
For an even more in-depth experience, consider upgrading your ticket to include the Behind-the-Scenes Tour and Virtual Reality experiences. Go behind the scenes to discover how the aquarists care for the sea creatures and feed the fish. Put on a VR headset to come face-to-fin with a tiger shark or get up close and personal with a manta ray, all without leaving dry land. These premium experiences add a whole new dimension to your visit.
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Visit the peaceful Airport Park or the larger Marisol Park, just 12 minutes away
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is surrounded by peaceful parks and entertaining attractions. If you're looking for a quiet escape, Airport Park and Marisol Park are just 12 minutes away. Airport Park offers a serene environment with lush greenery and open spaces, providing a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the airport. It is a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll or a peaceful picnic.
Marisol Park, on the other hand, is a larger park that spans across a vast area, offering an array of recreational activities. This park is an ideal destination for those seeking a more active experience. Whether you're a local looking for a regular jogging trail or a visitor wanting to enjoy the Florida sunshine, Marisol Park has something for everyone. With its spacious grounds, it's a great place to stretch your legs, have a picnic, or even fly a kite.
Both Airport Park and Marisol Park provide a peaceful respite for travellers and locals alike. With their proximity to the airport, they offer a convenient opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate amidst nature. Whether you're looking for a quiet moment before a flight or a place to stretch your legs after a long journey, these parks are the perfect choice.
Airport Park and Marisol Park are easily accessible from MCO, making them a convenient option for travellers with layovers or those seeking a quick break from their travels. The parks offer a tranquil escape from the busy airport environment, allowing visitors to relax and recharge amidst natural surroundings. So, whether you're passing through Orlando or a local resident, be sure to visit these peaceful green spaces.
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Check out the shopping, dining, and entertainment at Universal CityWalk, free to enter
Universal CityWalk is a great place to visit if you're looking for entertainment, dining, and shopping near MCO Airport. Known as "The Epicentre of Awesome," it offers a range of family-friendly attractions, restaurants, and shops sprawled around a lagoon. The best part? It's free to enter! You only pay if you decide to grab a bite to eat, enjoy a drink, or participate in an activity.
When it comes to dining, CityWalk has a variety of tasty options to choose from. You can indulge in some delicious seafood at Bubba Gump Shrimp Company, enjoy a quick bite at Panda Express, or satisfy your sweet tooth at Voodoo Doughnut. If you're looking for a unique musical experience, head to Rising Star, a music venue where you can even try your hand at karaoke.
For entertainment, CityWalk offers a range of options to keep you busy. Catch a movie at Cinemark, test your skills at Universal's Great Movie Escape, or put your mini-golf skills to the test at Hollywood Drive-in Golf. If you're a science enthusiast, the Orlando Science Center, located just 16.6 miles from the airport, features interactive exhibit halls, labs, workshops, and an observatory, ensuring there's always something new to explore.
If you're looking to do some shopping, you can find a variety of options at Universal CityWalk. From unique souvenirs to familiar brands, you're sure to find something to suit your taste. And with its close proximity to the airport, you can easily access it via a short Uber ride, with the average trip taking around 24 minutes and costing approximately $36.
So, if you're looking to pass the time during a layover or simply want to explore the area near MCO Airport, Universal CityWalk is definitely worth considering. With its diverse offerings and convenient location, it's a great way to enjoy some family-friendly entertainment, dining, and shopping without breaking the bank.
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Discover Madame Tussauds Orlando, home to lifelike wax figures of celebrities and icons
If you're looking for things to do near Orlando International Airport (MCO), Madame Tussauds Orlando is a popular attraction. Located at ICON Park, minutes from I-4, Florida Turnpike, and the Beachline Expressway (SR-528) on International Drive & Universal Boulevard, Madame Tussauds Orlando is home to lifelike wax figures of celebrities and icons.
Madame Tussauds Orlando offers a unique experience that allows you to get up close and personal with your favourite celebrities and historical icons. From Hollywood legends to sports heroes, you can step into the Oval Office, join Rihanna on the halftime show stage, or strike a pose with Taylor Swift. You can also fly back in time to meet historical leaders, save the world with Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman, or join the rest of the Justice League. In addition, you can create your own wax hand to take home as a souvenir.
ICON Park, where Madame Tussauds Orlando is located, offers a variety of other attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options. The Orlando Eye, a 400-foot-tall observation wheel, offers 360-degree views of Orlando and is located right next door to Madame Tussauds. SEA LIFE Orlando, an enormous indoor aquarium with nine exhibits, is also located nearby and can be bundled with Madame Tussauds tickets.
If you're looking for other things to do near MCO Airport, there are a few options within a 15-30 minute drive. Universal CityWalk offers dining, shopping, and entertainment options, while the Orlando Science Center features interactive exhibit halls, labs, workshops, and an observatory. The Florida Mall, Park Ave. in Winter Park, and Lake Eola are also popular destinations. However, keep in mind that travel experts recommend allowing for enough time to navigate airport security and deal with Orlando's heavy traffic.
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Enjoy the rides and attractions at ICON Park, including the famous Orlando Eye
If you're looking for fun and excitement near MCO Airport, ICON Park is the place to be. Home to the famous Orlando Eye, this entertainment hub offers thrilling rides, unique attractions, and breathtaking views that will elevate your Orlando experience to new heights.
The Orlando Eye, formerly known as The Wheel at ICON Park, is an iconic 400-foot-tall observation wheel that promises unparalleled views of the city. Step into one of the comfortable capsules and soar above the ground for approximately 20 minutes, taking in the stunning 360° panorama of Downtown Orlando, Walt Disney World, and beyond. Don't forget to capture the moment with the included Digital Photo Pass, ensuring unforgettable memories of your time in the skies.
ICON Park offers a diverse range of attractions beyond the Orlando Eye. For thrill-seekers, the Orlando SlingShot will catapult you 450 feet into the air, reaching breathtaking speeds. If you're travelling with family, the Pearl Express Train is an exciting and unforgettable experience for all ages, offering a unique perspective of the park. The Park also houses the internationally acclaimed Museum of Illusions, where you can step into a world of optical magic and interactive exhibits that defy the laws of nature.
When it's time to take a break from the rides, ICON Park delivers a plethora of dining and shopping options. With over 50 restaurants, bars, and shops, you're spoilt for choice. Whether you're craving a quick bite, a romantic dinner, or some retail therapy, ICON Park has something for everyone. And don't forget to check out the famous Madame Tussauds wax museum, the Sea Life Aquarium, and the 7D ride for even more entertainment.
ICON Park, located just minutes from major highways and expressways, is easily accessible and makes for a perfect addition to your Orlando itinerary. Whether you're a thrill-seeker, a family on vacation, or simply looking for a unique date night idea, ICON Park and the Orlando Eye offer an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to cherish long after your visit.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several attractions near the airport, including the Sea Life Orlando Aquarium, Madame Tussauds Orlando, and the Chocolate Kingdom. If you want to spend some time outdoors, you can visit Marisol Park or Lake Eola. For shopping, dining, and entertainment, head to Universal CityWalk, or for some retail therapy, try the Florida Mall.
The Sea Life Orlando Aquarium is approximately 13.6 miles from MCO Airport, which is about a 16-minute drive.
Yes, there are several restaurants near the airport, including Romano's Macaroni Grill, Canvas Restaurant & Market, and Don Julio Mexican Kitchen & Tequila Bar.
The traffic around MCO Airport can be quite heavy, and it can take a few hours to get through the security lines. It is recommended that you allow ample time when travelling to and from the airport.
