Layover in Orlando: An Expert Guide to Scheduling Your Stopover

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the busiest airport in Florida. Over 50 million passengers pass through it every year. It connects travelers to destinations worldwide. Many people have layovers here.

If you’re planning an Orlando airport layover, you might wonder how to spend your time. You could have a quick two-hour connection. Or you might have a full day to explore. Either way, knowing your options helps. This guide covers everything about layovers at Orlando International Airport. We’ll discuss visa rules, food, shops, rest areas, and city trips.

Before you start exploring, think about using Qeepl. It’s a luggage storage service near airports. You can drop off your bags and explore without carrying them around. Makes things easier.

Orlando Transit Visa Requirements

First things first: do you need a visa? For international travelers, understanding visa requirements is important. You don’t want problems during your journey.

Citizens of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries can transit through the U.S. without a visa. Stays must be 90 days or less. You need ESTA authorization before boarding. This applies to 40 countries including the UK, Germany, France, Japan, Australia, and South Korea.

Not eligible for VWP? You’ll need a C-1 transit visa. Even if you’re just passing through the airport. The application involves filling out the DS-160 form. You’ll pay a fee (currently $185). Then attend an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Processing times vary by location. Apply early.

Canadian and Bermudian citizens have it easier. They generally don’t need transit visas. But they must show valid passports. Standard customs and immigration procedures still apply.

Planning to leave the airport and explore Orlando? The same visa requirements apply as any short visit. You’ll need ESTA or a B-2 tourist visa depending on your nationality. Always verify requirements based on your citizenship. Regulations can change.

What to Do at the Airport During Your Orlando Layover?

If your layover is shorter than 4-5 hours, stay at the airport. Getting to the city takes about 20 minutes without traffic. Add security checks and potential delays. Short trips become stressful and risky.

The good news? Orlando International Airport has plenty to offer. Dining, shopping, and relaxation facilities are all available.

Restaurants Worth a Stop

Orlando airport has excellent dining options. Better than typical airport food.

Cask & Larder is a gastropub in the main terminal. Created by James Beard Award-nominated chef James Petrakis. It serves Southern-inspired dishes and craft cocktails. Some travelers arrive early just to eat here.

Want Cuban food? Try Columbia Restaurant in Airside 4. They serve traditional dishes like Cuban sandwiches, ropa vieja, and flan. It brings Tampa’s Ybor City flavors to the airport. Outback Steakhouse in Airside 1 has hearty American fare. Their Bloomin’ Onion and grilled steaks are popular.

Looking for lighter options? Freshii offers health-conscious choices. Custom salads, wraps, and smoothie bowls. Camden Food Co. in Airside 2 serves artisanal sandwiches and salads. They use locally-sourced ingredients when possible.

Coffee lovers will find multiple Starbucks locations. McCoy’s Bar & Grill provides a relaxed atmosphere. American classics and your favorite drinks.

Best Stores to Browse Between Flights

Shopping can help pass the time. The Disney Store in the main terminal is a must-see. Exclusive merchandise, character toys, and souvenirs. Everything from Mickey Mouse ears to limited-edition collectibles.

Hudson News stores are throughout all airsides. Newspapers, magazines, bestselling books, travel essentials, and snacks. InMotion Entertainment specializes in electronics and accessories. Forgot your headphones? Need a portable charger? They’ve got you.

Sunglass Hut offers designer eyewear. Ray-Ban, Oakley, and Prada. Perfect for sunny destinations.

Florida Orange Groves sells citrus products, hot sauces, and Florida-themed gifts. Ron Jon Surf Shop in Airside 4 features beachwear, surfing gear, and coastal lifestyle products.

International travelers can shop duty-free at DufryUSA stores. Spirits, cosmetics, fragrances, and luxury goods without certain taxes. Located past security in international terminal areas.

Lounges and Nap Zones

Need to rest and recharge? Several premium lounges offer comfortable spaces away from the busy terminal.

The Club at MCO has two locations. One in Airside 2 and another in Airside 4. They offer complimentary snacks, beverages including beer and wine, Wi-Fi, and business services. Day passes cost around $45 per person. No membership required.

American Airlines Admirals Club in Airside 4 serves American Airlines passengers and oneworld alliance members. Quiet environment with premium amenities, workstations, and refreshments. United Club in Airside 1 offers similar benefits for United Airlines travelers and Star Alliance members.

Want ultimate relaxation without lounge membership? Minute Suites in Airside 4 provide private rest pods by the hour. Soundproof suites include a daybed, workspace, and television. You can sleep, work, or enjoy privacy. Rates start at about $42 for the first hour.

XpresSpa locations in Airsides 1 and 4 offer massage services, facials, manicures, and pedicures. Perfect for relieving travel stress.

MCO doesn’t have dedicated free nap zones. But there are numerous seating areas with comfortable chairs. Some sections have armrest-free seating so you can stretch out. Gates near the end of each airside tend to be quieter during off-peak hours.

Facilities, Services, and Wi-Fi Access

Orlando International Airport provides free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the entire facility. The network name is MCO FREE WiFi. No password needed. Just accept the terms and conditions.

The airport has multiple charging stations. Electrical outlets and USB ports are throughout all terminals and airsides. Look for designated charging tables and bar-height counters.

Mother’s rooms are available in all four airsides. Private, comfortable spaces for nursing mothers. Seating, electrical outlets, and changing tables included.

Pet relief areas are located post-security in all airsides. Artificial turf and waste disposal facilities for travelers with animals.

Currency exchange services operated by Travelex are in the main terminal and Airside 4. International travelers can exchange money easily.

An interfaith chapel is on the third level of the main terminal. A quiet space for meditation and prayer. ATMs from various banks are distributed throughout. Postal services are available in the main terminal.

The Hyundai Experience Center in Airside 2 features interactive displays and virtual reality experiences. Many gate areas have televisions tuned to news and sports. The airport occasionally hosts live musical performances in the main terminal.

How to Spend Long Layover in Orlando?

Got a longer layover? And you meet visa requirements? You can leave the airport and experience Orlando’s famous attractions and local culture.

8-Hour Layover in Orlando

With eight hours between flights, you have time for a focused trip. But plan efficiently. Deplaning, customs (for international arrivals), traveling to and from the city, and returning through security take time. Allow at least 2-3 hours total for airport procedures. You’ll have about 4-5 hours of actual exploration time.

The Florida Mall is excellent for an 8-hour layover. Just 10 minutes from the airport via rideshare or taxi (about $15-20). This massive shopping center has over 250 stores. Apple, Microsoft, H&M, and Zara. Plus numerous dining options. The Cheesecake Factory, Brio Tuscan Grille. You can shop, dine, and catch a movie.

For natural beauty, visit Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando. About 20 minutes from the airport. This scenic urban park features a picturesque lake with swan boat rentals. A walking path circles the water. Beautiful fountain centerpiece. Surrounding area has cafes and restaurants. Views of the Orlando skyline. Sunday mornings feature a farmers market. Local produce, artisan goods, and prepared foods.

ICON Park on International Drive provides concentrated entertainment. The 400-foot tall Orlando Eye observation wheel. Madame Tussauds wax museum. SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium. Experience one or two attractions and grab lunch. Many restaurants in the complex. All within walking distance. About 15-20 minutes from the airport.

Alternatively, try Leu Gardens. A 50-acre botanical garden showcasing tropical and subtropical plants. Includes the largest formal rose garden in Florida. About 25 minutes from the airport. This peaceful oasis offers a contrast to theme parks.

12-Hour Layover in Orlando

A 12-hour layover opens up more possibilities. You’ll have about 7-8 hours of exploration time after airport procedures. Visit one major theme park or combine multiple smaller attractions.

Universal CityWalk offers theme park excitement without needing a full day. This entertainment complex is adjacent to Universal Studios (about 20 minutes from the airport). Restaurants like Vivo Italian Kitchen and The Cowfish. Live music venues, a movie theater, and unique shops. No admission fee.

Want to add thrills? Consider buying a ticket to Universal Studios Florida or Islands of Adventure. Be realistic about what you can experience in limited time. Focus on a few must-do attractions.

Disney Springs provides another excellent option without admission fees. This expansive outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment complex is about 25 minutes from the airport. Over 100 establishments. World of Disney (the largest Disney merchandise store). Unique dining like The BOATHOUSE and Morimoto Asia. Entertainment options like Splitsville Luxury Lanes bowling and live performances. You can easily spend 4-5 hours here.

For a unique Orlando experience, visit International Drive. The city’s tourism corridor packed with attractions, restaurants, and shops. Combine a visit to WonderWorks (an upside-down building with interactive science exhibits) with lunch. Then explore Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium or enjoy indoor skydiving at iFLY Orlando. The area is easily navigable. Use the I-Ride Trolley service for transportation between attractions.

Kennedy Space Center is technically possible with a 12-hour layover. But it requires careful planning. Located about 50 minutes from Orlando airport. This NASA facility offers an inspiring look at space exploration. If you’re passionate about space, the experience is unmatched. Just be aware you’ll spend significant time traveling.

Culture enthusiasts should consider Winter Park. A charming suburb about 30 minutes from the airport. This upscale community features Park Avenue. A picturesque street lined with boutiques, galleries, and sidewalk cafes. Visit the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art. It houses the world’s most comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany. Take a Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour through pristine lakes and narrow canals. Learn about the area’s history and admire beautiful estates.

24-Hour Layover in Orlando

A 24-hour layover transforms your connection into a mini-vacation. Experience Orlando’s major attractions without rushing. With proper planning, you can enjoy a theme park, explore the city, and still get rest.

This timeframe is perfect for visiting one of Orlando’s major theme parks. Magic Kingdom offers the quintessential Disney experience. Iconic attractions like Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Cinderella Castle. EPCOT combines thrilling rides with cultural experiences. Journey around the World Showcase. Hollywood Studios features Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and attractions based on popular films. At Universal Studios, experience The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and cutting-edge attractions.

With a full day, you can adopt a relaxed pace. Arrive when the park opens. Take a midday break for lunch outside the park or at a resort. Return for evening entertainment. Still make it back to the airport with time to spare. Purchase tickets in advance online to save time and money.

Consider experiencing authentic Florida nature. Wekiwa Springs State Park (about 40 minutes from the airport) offers crystal-clear springs perfect for swimming. Kayaking opportunities and hiking trails through pristine Florida wilderness. You might spot alligators, turtles, deer, and various bird species.

For a comprehensive Orlando experience, create a mixed itinerary. Start with breakfast at a local favorite like Se7en Bites. A bakery and comfort food restaurant known for incredible biscuits and Southern specialties. Visit one smaller attraction like Gatorland. A 110-acre theme park and wildlife preserve showcasing thousands of alligators and crocodiles (15 minutes from the airport). Enjoy lunch at East End Market. A community marketplace featuring local vendors. Spend your afternoon at Disney Springs or exploring Winter Park. Have dinner at one of Orlando’s acclaimed restaurants. Kadence offers an intimate sushi omakase experience. Prato serves creative Italian cuisine in Winter Park.

Evening entertainment options include catching an Orlando Magic basketball game at Amway Center (NBA season runs October through April). Attend a performance at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Or experience Orlando’s nightlife downtown. Wall Street Plaza or Church Street.

How to Handle Overnight Layover in Orlando?

Facing an overnight layover? Choosing the right accommodation makes a difference. You can arrive at your next flight refreshed instead of exhausted.

Staying at an airport hotel eliminates transportation concerns. Maximum rest time. Walk or take a short shuttle to your room. Sleep comfortably. Return to the terminal refreshed without worrying about traffic or timing.

Hotels near the airport offer similar convenience. Potentially more competitive rates and amenities. These properties typically provide free shuttle services. Just minutes from the terminal.

Booking a hotel in the city makes sense if you plan to explore Orlando extensively. Though it requires more travel time and planning.

Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport is the ultimate convenience option. Located directly inside the airport terminal. Access your room via elevators from the main terminal. Never go outside. Perfect for short overnight stays or when you want to maximize sleep time. The hotel features 445 modern rooms. Comfortable bedding, flat-screen TVs, work desks, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Runway or atrium views. Amenities include a full-service restaurant (Hemisphere), McCoy’s Bar, a Starbucks, fitness center, and business center. Room rates typically range from $180 to $350 per night. Depends on season and availability. Premium-priced compared to off-site options. But the convenience is unmatched. You can roll out of bed and be at your gate within 15 minutes.

Homewood Suites by Hilton Orlando Airport is about 2 miles from the terminal. Excellent value for layover travelers. This all-suite property provides free 24-hour airport shuttle service. Runs every 30 minutes. Each suite includes a full kitchen, separate living area, bedroom, and complimentary hot breakfast. Additional amenities feature an outdoor pool, fitness center, free Wi-Fi, and evening social Monday through Thursday. Light meals and beverages. The hotel caters well to travelers needing to work. Spacious work areas and reliable internet. Rates generally range from $120 to $200 per night. More space and amenities than the on-airport option at a lower price. About 7-10 minutes from the airport via shuttle.

Hampton Inn Orlando Airport provides reliable quality and comfort. About 1.5 miles from MCO. Free 24-hour shuttle service. Easy transportation regardless of flight times. Rooms feature the signature Hampton bed, flat-screen TV, work desk, and ergonomic chair. Complimentary hot breakfast served daily. Heated outdoor pool, fitness center, and 24-hour business center. Expect to pay $100 to $180 per night. One of the more budget-friendly quality options. The Hampton brand’s consistency means you know what to expect. Reduces uncertainty during your layover.

Fairfield Inn & Suites Orlando Airport sits about 2 miles from the terminal. Complimentary 24-hour shuttle service. This Marriott property offers contemporary rooms. Comfortable bedding, work areas, mini-refrigerators, and microwaves in select rooms. Free hot breakfast buffet includes healthy options and traditional favorites. Perfect for fueling up before your next flight. Amenities include an outdoor pool, fitness center, and free Wi-Fi. Room rates typically range from $95 to $170 per night. An economical choice without sacrificing quality. The property attracts many business travelers and airport layover guests. Staff are experienced with tight schedules and early departures.

Courtyard Orlando Airport is about 3 miles from MCO. Free 24-hour shuttle service. This Marriott property features modern design. Spacious rooms, plush bedding, large work desks, and ergonomic chairs. Ideal for travelers who need to work during their layover. The Bistro restaurant serves Starbucks coffee, breakfast, and dinner. Evening cocktails available. The hotel includes an outdoor pool, well-equipped fitness center, and business center with printing services. Rates generally fall between $110 and $190 per night. The slightly greater distance is offset by competitive pricing and comprehensive amenities.

SpringHill Suites Orlando Airport provides all-suite accommodations. About 2.5 miles from the terminal. Free 24-hour airport shuttle service. Each suite offers 25% more space than standard hotel rooms. Separate sleeping and working areas, mini-refrigerator, microwave, and sofa bed. Complimentary hot breakfast includes both healthy and indulgent options. Outdoor pool, fitness center, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Expect rates from $105 to $185 per night. Excellent value for the additional space. These suites work well for longer layovers. More room to spread out, relax, or work comfortably.

Choosing the right option depends on your priorities. If convenience and time are paramount and budget is secondary, the Hyatt Regency inside the airport can’t be beat. If you prefer better value and don’t mind a short shuttle ride, nearby hotels offer excellent amenities at lower costs. All listed properties provide comfortable, clean accommodations with reliable airport transportation. You can rest properly during your overnight layover in Orlando.