The sunshine state got its nickname for very good reason. Florida averages 237 days a year of sunshine, which out-shines (pun definitely intended here) the U.S. average of 205. And, many of Florida’s favorite cities to visit have close to 30 more days than the state average, so, in other words, they boast some of the best weather in Florida year-round. When you really think about it, that’s an extra month of sunshine in Florida than the rest of the U.S.
Orlando tops the list of places to visit in the Sunshine state and even in the height of summer, and some of the hottest months of the year, people flock from all over to enjoy the sun and all the fun this region has to offer. While the temperature can be hot from June through September, there is so much to see and do in Orlando that families and vacationers continue to add it to their summer bucket list.
Let’s break down some of the best theme parks and attractions to hit up when you’re vacationing in Orlando this summer, and discuss some tips, tricks, and just really important things to know about beating the heat, skipping the lines, and surviving and thriving and Orlando summer vacation.
Best water parks in Orlando
Water is your best friend during a vacation in Orlando in the summer and there are a number of water parks to cool off and have fun at. Universal Studio’s sprawling water park Volcano Bay offers high-thrill slides and rides, plus low-key pools. Aquatica features marine life shows, thrill rides, aquariums, and up-close encounters with dolphins, penguins, and more. Walt Disney World’s Typhoon Lagoon offers fun for all ages at its beach-style swimming area with gentle waves and high swells. Looking for a little more adventure? Lake Nona has a water-based adventure park like no other featuring jumbo inflatables, wakeboarding, ropes courses, and climbing walls… all on the water.
Things to do outside the theme parks in Orlando
We all know about the biggest and best theme parks Orlando has to offer… but did you know there are other things to do in the summer outside of visiting the theme parks? Along International Drive, you’ll find a number of attractions from the Wheel at ICON Park (and all that ICON Park has to offer) to The Museum of Illusions to Andretti Indoor Karting & Game and Ripley’s Believe It or Not!®, just to name a few. Honestly, you could spend days keeping yourself entertained on I-Drive alone.
Finding even more fun in the City Beautiful
For those of you who don’t know, Orlando is dubbed “The City Beautiful”, and there is so much to do in this beautiful city outside of theme parks and tourist attractions. At Lake Eola, you can walk the almost one-mile lake, take a boat ride on the swan-shaped paddle boats, see a concert or play at the Wald Disney Amphitheater, or grab a drink and a bite to eat at one of the many local restaurants. Orlando also consists of “districts” or neighborhoods within the city, each known for something uniquely their own. Downtown Orlando also boasts some hip nightlight with clubs, bars, and restaurants that compare to many other big cities you may be familiar with around the country.
Tips on navigating a bustling city like Orlando in the summer
Like many big cities, there are things to know about getting around and avoiding lines or wait times. When it comes to our theme parks, many of them have “fast passes” or other similar systems that allow you to use their app to make reservations for ride times. This is a must, especially when traveling with young children. The key to this is booking your reservations as far in advance as possible in order to get the best times during your visit. Another perk to visiting a city like Orlando in the summer is the number of Uber or Lyft drivers you’ll find that help you get from point a to point b really easily. This is a great way to avoid paying for parking or wasting time you could be having fun on finding a place to park. Another thing we love about Downtown Orlando and a few other spots around the city? Scooters and bikes! There are a number of scooter share and bike share companies offering rentals for you to enjoy. And, don’t forget the SunRail! This commuter rail runs from Poinciana to Sandford with many stops along the way in places like Downtown Orlando and Winter Park.
Rain or shine, summer weather in Orlando is unique
We mentioned earlier the number of sunny days you’ll find in Florida, but one thing you may not be aware of is the afternoon storms that tend to roll through in Florida in the summertime. June through late August/early September is the peak rainy season in Florida. On a typical day in the rainy season, thunderstorms typically pop up after daytime heating in the afternoon hours overland. Then at night, storms develop offshore and generally stay over the Atlantic waters. It’s important to know this pattern so you can plan your day accordingly. We recommend downloading a weather app to keep track of the weather and your plans. Ponchos and small umbrellas are a must when packing your back for the day.
What to wear when playing tourist in Orlando in the summer
Summer in Florida means shorts, tank tops, breathable shirts, and of course… lots of bathing suits! The best part about packing for a long trip to Orlando is you usually can pack a lot of clothes because shorts, tank tops, and bathing suits take up a lot less space in your suitcase than other clothing items. Of course, you’ll want to pack socks and comfortable sneakers for all the walking you’ll do at the theme parks, but sandals or flip-flops are a must for visiting the local water parks or other outdoor attractions with less walking. Be sure to bring lots of sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to keep shaded from the Florida sun, too.
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