15 Worst Tourist Mistakes to Avoid in Orlando
Orlando is one of the most visited cities in the world, attracting millions of people each year for its theme parks, entertainment centers, and hot weather. Visiting this fabled location can sometimes involve a minefield of missteps from understating the size of Disney World to choosing the wrong time of year. These mistakes can turn a dream vacation into a lot of stress.
To save you the frustration and allow you to get down to the fun stuff, we put together a list of what you shouldn’t be doing in Orlando. If you avoid these common tourist pitfalls you’ll be making memories for all the right reasons and won’t be sweating over missed opportunities.
Not Checking the Weather
The weather in Florida is just as unpredictable as a toddler’s mood. Visitors assume it’s sunny 24/7, but in the summer, afternoon downpours are a near-daily occurrence. If you forget a poncho or don’t check the forecast you could get soaked. Bring light rain gear and don’t let spontaneous showers ruin your day. It’s all part of the Florida charm.
Ignoring Crowd Calendars
Going to the beach without checking for sharks is like a visit to Orlando without consulting a crowd calendar. If you plan a trip during high times such as spring break, Christmas, or summer vacation, you will be met with longer wait times and higher ticket prices. If possible, aim for the quieter months—January, early November, and September are best for fewer crowds and shorter lines.
Underestimating the Size of Disney World
Disney World is big. It’s impossible to see it all in one day with four massive parks, two water parks, golf courses, and countless resorts. A lot of tourists try, and burn out fast. Plan ahead, focus on one park per day, and remember: Disney World is a marathon, not a sprint.
Skipping Advanced Reservations
If you think you can just stroll into a popular restaurant or pop into that must-see show on a whim, think again. Dining reservations at hot spot places like Be Our Guest or Oga’s Cantina get booked up months in advance. Fast passes for big attractions can even fill up fast. No luck? Do your homework and make reservations as far in advance as you can.
Wearing the Wrong Shoes
This is a rookie mistake that’ll have you limping before lunch. With 7-10 miles of walking daily in Orlando’s theme parks, the wrong footwear can mean the end of your trip. Leave the flip-flops at home and break in a pair of comfortable sneakers before you visit. Your feet will thank you.
Overpacking Your Itinerary
Ambition is great, but Orlando isn’t a race. There’s no use trying to cram Magic Kingdom, Universal, Sea World and a water park in three days – you’ll end up exhausted. Schedule in some downtime, let’s say a day around the pool or a stroll around Disney Springs. The best way to ensure a great trip is to pace yourself.
Driving Without Researching Tolls
Orlando is littered with toll booths along its highways, and out-of-towners regularly scramble for loose change or a SunPass. Sometimes rental car companies have a toll program, just with additional fees. If you’re driving, research the toll system and keep cash or a prepaid pass on hand so you won’t get stuck.
Skipping Sunscreen
The Florida sun can be deceptive and even if the morning starts off cool and cloudy, don’t underestimate it. The sun is relentless, and a sunburn is a miserable souvenir to take home. Slap on some sunscreen, wear a hat, and drink water like it’s your full-time job. Apply sunscreen often during the day, and after water rides.
Not Budgeting for the Hidden Costs
On paper, Orlando sounds cheap — until the hidden costs hit you in the face. Your budget can balloon with parking fees, meals, souvenirs, and extra park add-ons. Set a daily spending limit and plan ahead. A few little things like bringing your own snacks can make a world of difference.
Neglecting to Hydrate
Even for seasoned travelers, Florida’s heat and humidity will zap your energy. Dehydration creeps up quickly, especially when running from one show to another. Bring a refillable water bottle and make sure to use the free water cups given out at all theme parks. The secret weapon for surviving those long park days is hydration.
Thinking All Parks Are for Kids
Yes, Disney’s mascot is a mouse, but Orlando also has a lot to offer adults. For grown-ups, there is plenty of fun to be had from the nightlife at Universal City Walk to the lavish dining at Disney Springs. Don’t be afraid to go out and explore.
Neglecting Universal Studios’ Express Pass
While Universal’s Express Pass may sound like an unnecessary splurge, during peak times, it’s a game changer. Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey lines can eat up hours if you don’t skip them. Factor in the cost to your budget, and you won’t regret it when you’re breezing past the crowds.
Forgetting About Other Attractions
Disney and Universal hog the spotlight and it’s easy to get tunnel vision, but Orlando has more to offer. Head to the smaller gems like Gatorland, the Orlando Science Center or take a day trip to distant Kennedy Space Center. These less crowded spots often provide unique experiences without the chaos of the big parks.
Not Planning for Transportation
Orlando isn’t a walking city. Uber or Lyft is incredibly limited and costs can add up quickly. If you intend to go beyond the parks, rent a car — although you’ll need to be prepared for parking fees. Make sure to know your transportation needs before you go, so you don’t feel frustrated.
Overlooking Rest Days
Finally, the most overlooked mistake: failing to rest. Vacations in Orlando can be grueling, and most visitors have hit a wall by day three. Whether it’s relaxing by your hotel pool, getting a spa treatment, or having a low-key dinner, take a break. If you give yourself time to recharge, you’ll enjoy the rest of your trip.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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