How to make the most out of your layover in Orlando

For millions of travelers every year, Orlando Airport is their final destination. Whether they are coming from around the world to visit the city's famous theme parks or they live in the area and are returning from a trip, Orlando is the start and end of many great adventures. However, this major airport is also an important transportation hub for the United States, Latin America, and beyond. And if you find yourself on a layover at Orlando Airport, you'll be glad to hear that you won't struggle to find things to do.

Orlando has plenty of things to keep you occupied that have nothing to do with theme parks - but of course, you can't really talk about Orlando without mentioning all the great family theme parks you can visit here. Leave your bags behind with a Bounce Orlando luggage storage, and you can make the most of your time in the city, even if it's only a couple of hours.

Things to keep in mind before leaving Orlando Airport

Orlando International Airport is well-organized. There are three terminals, A, B, and C, and the airport offers shuttle bus service and free airport shuttles to various destinations available on the ground transportation level. That means even with a relatively short layover, you can head into the city and enjoy it for yourself. Be aware, however, that you can't just walk into the United States. Several countries have the right to enter the United States without a visa, including Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and the EU, but make sure you know your immigration status before you get to the airport to avoid an unpleasant scene.

Minimum layover times in Orlando

Orlando’s proximity to key sites makes it easy to explore, even if you only have a few hours. Here are some general guidelines:

• In-airport short layover (2-3 hours): If your layover is brief, you can stay at the airport. Enjoy the fresh air on the terminal top parking garage deck or explore the airport’s shops and dining options.
• Domestic flights (3-4 hours): This time frame gives you just enough time to visit nearby hotels or shopping centers like the Florida Mall for a quick shopping break.
• International flights (6-8 hours): A longer layover lets you explore downtown Orlando, with options like the Orlando Museum of Art or interactive exhibits at the Orlando Science Center.
• Long layover or overnight: For a layover of 8+ hours, you’ll have time to enjoy attractions, grab a meal, or even visit Discovery Cove to experience Orlando’s natural beauty and aquatic adventures.

Getting around Orlando

Orlando International Airport has excellent ground transportation options, including free airport shuttles to nearby hotels and car rental centers. Additionally, the airport’s shuttle bus service provides convenient access to popular destinations, and many hotels offer complimentary shuttles to nearby attractions. The best way to get around is to travel light by leaving your belongings behind with a Bounce luggage storage facility close to the airport. We partner with local businesses to make sure you always have a place to leave your belongings so that you never have to carry more than you need to.

• Shuttles: Many hotels offer complimentary airport shuttles. Private shuttle services like Mears Connect provide direct rides to major resorts and theme parks.
• Rideshares and taxis: Uber, Lyft, and taxis are readily available at designated pick-up zones. A ride to downtown Orlando or theme parks typically costs $30-$50, depending on traffic and distance.
• Car rentals: MCO hosts numerous car rental agencies, perfect for exploring the city at your own pace. Interstate 4 provides easy access to downtown, Disney, and Universal.
• Public transit: Lynx buses, such as Route 11 or 111, connect the airport to downtown Orlando and the Florida Mall. Fares start at $2, so this is definitely a budget-friendly choice.
• SunRail: While not directly connected to the airport, a short Lynx bus ride takes you to a SunRail station for access to downtown and nearby suburbs.

What to do in Orlando during a layover

Orlando has a wide range of activities, from cultural experiences to unique shopping and entertainment venues like Disney World and Universal Studios. The bottom line is that you won't have trouble finding worthwhile options to pass the layover time.

Morning layover in Orlando

Activities

Start your visit at the Orlando Museum of Art, located in Loch Haven Park just north of downtown Orlando. This museum features collections of American and African art and often has rotating exhibits showcasing different art forms and cultures. Nearby, you’ll find the Orlando Science Center, where exhibits and educational programs cover everything from dinosaurs to space exploration. Large bags aren't allowed inside these educational facilities, so use a Bounce luggage storage either at the airport or in downtown Orlando so that you can leave your things behind for a few hours and pick them up whenever you're ready.

Breakfast spots

Se7en Bites in the Milk District is a popular spot for Southern-inspired breakfast dishes and pastries, or grab a quick breakfast at The Glass Knife in Winter Park for freshly baked goods and coffee.

Afternoon layover in Orlando

Activities

Head to downtown Orlando for a stroll around Lake Eola Park, where you can enjoy fresh air and views of the city skyline. From there, take a quick trip to ICON Park, which has a variety of attractions, including a wax museum where you can pose with lifelike figures of celebrities and historical figures. If you have extra time, Discovery Cove offers a tranquil, resort-style environment with snorkeling, swimming, and animal encounters, for a true Florida experience.

Lunch spots

Stop by The Strand in Mills 50 for a seasonal menu featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients, or try Gringos Locos in downtown Orlando for a quick and tasty taco lunch.

Evening layover in Orlando

Activities

Start with a visit to the Orlando Science Center, which has extended hours on certain nights. Afterward, take a shuttle or rideshare to the Florida Mall for some late-night shopping. This mall has a wide variety of stores and dining options, and it’s one of the largest shopping centers in Florida. Alternatively, you can visit ICON Park for dinner and a ride on The Wheel, an impressive observation wheel offering panoramic views of Orlando’s lights and attractions.

Dinner spots

Don't let the name throw you off because The Ravenous Pig in Winter Park is great for a farm-to-table dining experience. You can also head to Soco Thornton Park downtown for modern Southern cuisine with a creative twist. Don't spoil your dinner by struggling with heavy bags. Instead, leave them behind with Bounce so you can make the most of your time here.

Overnight layover in Orlando

Hotels

For convenient access to the airport, consider Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport (rooftop pool and day-use rooms for a nap) or the Hotel Atrium found between Terminal A and Terminal B. Alternatively, the Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld offers a more resort-like experience with spacious rooms and easy access to nearby attractions.

Night activities

Downtown Orlando has a lively nightlife scene with bars, pubs, and live music venues. You can also enjoy a quieter evening walk around Lake Eola or a nightcap at Mathers Social Gathering, a stylish downtown lounge.

Tips to make the most out of your Orlando layover

Here are some quick tips to ensure you make the most out of your time in Orlando:

• Check your flight schedule: Keep an eye on your flight schedule and allow plenty of time to return to the airport and go through security, especially if you’re on an international flight.
• Public transit and shuttles: Make use of the airport’s free shuttles to nearby hotels or car rentals, and consider the shuttle bus service to reach areas like the Florida Mall and ICON Park.
• Currency and payment: Orlando uses the U.S. dollar (USD), and most places accept credit cards, so you’ll have no trouble with payment.
• Dress for Florida weather: Orlando’s weather can be hot and humid, so wear light, breathable clothing, and comfortable shoes, especially if you’re walking around downtown or visiting outdoor sites.

Orlando offers a variety of options for any type of traveler, from interactive exhibits at the Orlando Science Center to the shopping at Florida Mall, and cultural sites like the Orlando Museum of Art and the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum. So, whatever you like to do, there's a good chance you can do it here. Leave the heavy bags behind with us and get to know Orlando. Even a layover of a few hours is enough to get a taste of what this city is all about.