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Navigating the US: Getting Around in Orlando, Florida

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getting around in Orlando

When you think of Orlando, you probably think of one of the many amusement parks that surround its city limits. While these parks aren’t exactly considered part of the city of Orlando itself, they are still a siren’s call for tourists across the world. In order to help your visit to this city go smoothly, make sure you check out these tips on getting around in Orlando before you head south.

Recommended Modes of Transportation

  • Car (rental or your own)— While the roads can be a bit congested at times—after all, it is the eighth most congested city in the country—the majority of attractions are south of the city itself,  making driving the most convenient and easiest way to travel anywhere.
  • I-Ride Trolley—This trolley usually serves tourists in the attractions area, operating along International Drive and Universal Blvd from 8am-10:30pm every day. They’re technically not trolleys, but are instead busses modified to look like trolleys. If you’re interested in looking to see if the trolley stops near you, you can see the routes at IRideTrolley.com or call 407-248-9590 for more information.
  • LYNX Bus Service—Orlando’s main form of public transportation, the LYNX system has roughly 60 bus routes that service the city, making getting around in Orlando easy. Information on the bus routes can be found at GoLynx.com. Another option is Lymmo Bus, a free bus service that operates in a circuit in downtown, from City Hall to the Centroplex and back. For information about this bus, including its restricted hours, call 841-LYNX.

getting around in Orlando

Major Highways and Roadways to Know

I-4 is the main highway through Orlando, along with other major highways such as toll road SR-528 and the Beach Line Expressway. If you’re looking for any of the major attractions around the Orlando area, more likely than not they will be found along or near I-4. In Orlando, International Drive is another major tourist attraction, featuring tourist-focused shops, restaurants, and attractions.

While you’re driving around the highways though, make sure you’re aware that the majority of Orlando’s toll roads are open tolls, meaning you need to pull off to toll booths constructed off the right of the highway or be ticketed. If you’re driving a rental car, normally the rental company will provide you with a Sun Pass, which is an electronic pass that will pay for the toll without pulling off the road.

Best Places to Park

If you’re looking for a place to park in Downtown Orlando, but are having difficulty finding a cheap garage for the night, DowntownOrlando.com has the perfect parking guide for you. Not only does it provide you with hourly rates, but it also offers addresses and weekday hours, so you can plan your day accordingly.

Airports and Car Rentals

Orlando’s primary airport is Orlando International Airport, located southeast of downtown. The airport is a secondary hub for AirTran Airways, Southwest Airlines, and JetBlue Airways and offers multiple international flights. Since traveling by car is the primary form of transportation in Orlando, multiple car rentals are available, along with both shuttle and town car service options, including Disney’s Magical Express and Sunshine Limousine.

Hotels and Attractions

Throughout Orlando, you will find that hotels seem pop up on every corner. Whether you’re on a budget or looking to splurge, there are a number of options out there for you, but make sure you pick an option that is close to the major attraction you want to see! Here is a list of some Orlando attractions:

  • Walt Disney World—Probably the most well-known theme park in the world, Disney World has a variety of parks within it to make it a great trip, whether you’re an adult or a child.
  • Universal Orlando Resort—Another theme park that is only second to Disney World, this resort offers a number of rides and attractions that recreate beloved movies.
  • SeaWorld Adventure Park Orlando—If you just can’t get enough of aquatic creatures, SeaWorld offers fantastic aquatic shows, thrilling rides, and fun exhibits.
  • Wet ‘N Wild—A water park that has a huge number of water-themed rides.

getting around in Orlando

For more information, please check out the following resources:

Do you have your own helpful tips for getting around in Orlando? Share them with us below!