So you’re in Central Florida for the 2022 voyage of The 80s Cruise and you’re new to Orlando? Welcome, first of all, to what tourism leaders call “The City Beautiful.” I believe in Latin, the motto is “Pessimus negotiationis semper.” (Worst traffic ever.)
I’ve lived here for 10 years now – but I’m nearly a lifelong Floridian – and with the help of the “Central Florida ’80s Cruisers Facebook Group,” we’d like to offer you some guidance if you’re planning time in Orlando either before or after the cruise.
TOP 10 THINGS TO KNOW WHEN VISITING ORLANDO:
About our airport: Yes, Orlando International can be un-fun at times. It will be overrun with little kids wearing mouse ears and/or Hogwarts robes. They’ll be crying. Loudly. The lines at the Delta counter will be EPIC LONG when you check back in to fly home. Seriously, allow a lot of extra time if you’re flying Delta in particular – but in general just be prepared to be patient and get there EARLY. It’s Spring Break season in Florida, which is roughly equivalent to a gas shortage in “Road Warrior.”
Of course, we’re home to Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando. If you’re planning on visiting either, check their website for current COVID-related requirements. Disney World is about to lift its mask requirement for vaccinated guests. Universal reportedly also already did that. But the parks might also require you to get reservations for the days you plan to visit. Definitely read their official websites. Also, if you want to dine in Epcot, get reservations online asap.
If you want some Disney culture without the daily admission price, consider Disney Springs – an entertainment, shopping and dining mecca just outside of the theme parks. Parking and admission are free. The restaurants are amazing. And you’ll save a ton of money. Morimoto has a great spot. So does Art Smith. Wine Bar George is a favorite of local ’80s cruisers too. If you’d like a place away from Disney for something more quirky, Yellow Dog Eats comes highly recommended.
Orlando also has a SeaWorld. If you want to swim with dolphins and interact with other marine life in a safe environment, check out Discovery Cove. Another entertainment option is ICON Park on International Drive – also in the Disney end of town. It’s fairly new and has the “Eye of Orlando” – a giant observation Ferris wheel – along with an aquarium, wax museum and dozens of shops and restaurants.
If you’re a fan of vinyl records, you must visit Rock-n-Roll Records and/or Retro Records. Remix Record Shop is another favorite. If you’re into vintage clothing, try Duckie’s Vintage Boutique in the Oviedo Mall. (That’s a short drive north of Orlando in the ‘burbs.) If you’re craving some arcade action, try The Pinball Lounge at the Oviedo Bowling Center.
The “locals’ beach” in Orlando – not a city on any saltwater body – is most likely New Smyrna Beach, about an hour’s drive from the city (but just south of Cocoa Beach). It’s a little cleaner and less commercial than Daytona or Cocoa. It’s also home to JB’s Fish Camp, a great place for a true Floridians seafood feast. It’s nothing fancy but it offers river views and a chill vibe. Other favorite spots near Port Canaveral and the host hotel are Grills Seafood and Tiki Bar and Fishlips Waterfront Bar and Grill.
Speaking of Orlando’s lack of saltwater, this is a region with a lot of lakes. Lakes in Florida always have alligators. They are not to be messed with. Don’t try sunbathing by a lake. Don’t try feeding the gators either. If you want to safely experience lakes, try the Winter Park Boat Tour instead. If you’re just DYING to have fun with gators, stick to the campy Gatorland attraction where you can zip-line over the feisty critters.
One place that gators usually ignore are freshwater springs, and Central Florida has plenty of those too. Here, the water is 72 degrees year-round and is crystal clear. Visit Wekiwa State Park for the coolest waterhole in Florida or Blue Spring State Park for diving, fishing, kayaking and hiking.
If you’re craving a craft beer, Orlando has its share of small breweries. You can find a list here on Visit Orlando’s site. I recommend the outdoor Beer Garden at Ravenous Pig (also a great place for brunch/lunch). If you consider yourself more of a hipster, Red Light Red Light is the place. Craving wine – particularly organic wine? Digress Wine is a good spot.
Oh, I mentioned the traffic, right? It’s … well, it’s bad. Avoid Interstate 4 as much as possible. Even Semoran Boulevard – the main road leading to and from the airport – is a parking lot at times. Orlando has its share of toll roads – they’re worth the money. Just be patient and you’ll survive.
Any questions? Email us at sit80s@gmail.com.