Megan duBois

Like most people, when I think of Orlando, I immediately picture storybook castles, high-speed rollercoasters and a plethora of treats to try throughout the day at the city’s iconic theme parks. In fact, Orlando is known as the theme park capital of the world with over a dozen parks within earshot of each other, including a brand-new park from Universal Orlando Resort, Universal Epic Universe. So if you haven’t been to the parks in a while, 2025 is a great time to go, especially if you’re looking for something new to do in the city. This year, Disney is opening a handful of new entertainment offerings around its four theme parks, while Universal launched a new park about four miles from its original ones. And with so much still on the horizon for the parks, even if you visit again in five years, there will still be more new things to see and do. This guide was updated by Orlando-based writer Megan duBois. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.  RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Orlando🍣 The best restaurants in Orlando🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Orlando🏰 The best Disney World hotels

Key West is one of those places that is so idyllic it can be hard to believe it’s actually real. Picture the scene: palm trees swaying gently in the breeze, surrounded by crystalline turquoise waters, basking in year-round sunshine - absolute bliss. If that ain’t the good life, we don’t know what is. And there are few better ways to properly indulge in Key West than by renting an Airbnb. The city’s finest Airbnbs range from abodes that are mere steps away from the area’s biggest attractions to those that are perfect for lounging by the beach. We’ve sifted through all of Key West’s Airbnb rental options to find the ones that are totally unmissable: read on to find out more. Updated May 2025: The best hidden gems are often right under our noses, which is why we're leaving no stone unturned. How else would we know about the lighthouse suite or the hibiscus cottage? RECOMMENDED: 🏝Why not stay at one of the best hotels in Key West?Or the best family-friendly hotels in Key West? This guide was recently updated by Travel Writers Shayne Benowitz and Alex Floyd-Douglass. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. While we might not stay in every hotel featured below, we've based our list on top reviews and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our 

There’s no shortage of things to do in Orlando. Think incredible theme parks, delectable dining, and girls' night out activities that don’t break the bank. The best things to do are spread throughout the city, so there's always something to do nearby no matter where you live or what hotel you’re booking. Whether you’re into culture through live local music, someone with a green thumb looking to up your gardening game, or a theme park enthusiast who wants to break a record for the most times on a certain roller coaster, there’s plenty to do in Orlando. Even if you live in the City Beautiful or visit it often, I’m sure you haven’t done every single thing on this list of attractions, museums, and theme parks. So the real question is, how many of the best things to do in Orlando will you be adding to your weekend adventures? March 2025: I love March. The weather in Orlando is finally starting to warm up, but not so much that you can’t enjoy being outside. Winter brought unseasonably cold weather to Florida (hello, snow in some Northern parts of the state), and it seemed so gloomy for much of the season. Now that the flowers are starting to bloom and days are getting longer, I can’t wait to get outside and enjoy more of what the city has to offer.  This season’s guide to the best things to do in the city includes festivals at the theme parks and plenty of spots to enjoy outdoor dining, and we’re getting closer to the opening of Universal Orlando Resort’s new theme park, Universal

When most people think of Orlando, they think of the theme parks, but just beyond the castle gates, there’s a whole culinary wonderland waiting to be explored. The best restaurants in Orlando can be found everywhere, from hip neighborhoods to high-rise hotels overlooking Disney World. If you’re still not convinced that Orlando is a worthy foodie destination, then consider that the Michelin Guide has given out a handful of stars to restaurants across the city, plus recommendations for dozens of eateries for every budget. Whether you live in Orlando or just visit for the rollercoasters, these are the spots to seek out for an incredible meal. March 2025: I love March because the weather is finally perfect for enjoying meals al fresco with friends and family. While not every restaurant on this season’s list offers outdoor dining, many of the establishments do, which means you can enjoy a great meal and the great weather. Some long-time favorites of mine, like Wine Bar George and Four Flamingos, are still on the list. There are also a handful of newer places like UniGirl, Edoboy, and Otto’s High Dive that are worth the drive to get to, no matter what part of town you’re in. itters. RECOMMENDED:🎢 The best theme parks in Orlando🏖️ The best beaches near Orlando🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Orlando This guide was updated by Florida-based writer Megan duBois. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, s

There’s nothing better than a beach day. The sun and surf, great company, and the smell of sunscreen in the air just give off big summer vibes. While Orlando’s theme parks and water parks have man-made stretches of sand where you can work on your tan or learn to surf (looking at you, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park), if you’ve made it to Florida, you’re going to want to get to the real thing. If you hop in a car and drive an hour east of Orlando, you’ll hit one of the most iconic beaches in Florida, Cocoa Beach, but there are many other beaches near Orlando worth the drive to on the east and west coasts. Whether you’re looking for a day of relaxation or a day filled with water sports and games on the sand, there’s a beach vibe for everyone. Keep reading to find the perfect beach near Orlando for you. This guide was updated by Orlando-based writer Megan duBois. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.  RECOMMENDED: The best parks in Orlando

Orlando truly has it all. You’ve got epic theme parks and cute historic neighborhoods, plus a host of museums and restaurants you’ll want to explore. Just as the city is diverse, so are the accommodations available, and not every place is built the same. Sure, you could stay in one of the ritzy resorts or a budget-friendly hotel, but there’s also the option to book an Airbnb in Orlando for something a little homier. No matter the length of stay or how big your travel party is, the top home rentals in the city offer something for every type of family. From romantic getaways in the treetops to themed houses, these are the best Airbnbs in Orlando. This guide was updated by Orlando-based writer Megan duBois. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

One of the most daunting parts of planning a vacation or staycation is deciding where to stay. After all, you need to think about price, amenities, location, and more. You are supposed to be relaxing! While there are dozens of hotels around the greater Fort Lauderdale area, some of the best hotels are just steps away from the beach, and one is even shaped like a giant guitar. A day in the Venice of America is all about time spent at the sandy beaches, top-notch restaurants, and exploring the things to do, and ends with you jumping into a cozy hotel bed as you gaze out the window to the ocean waves. There are plenty of hotels with waterfront views, mermaid shows, and luxury facilities to choose from in the area. Some resorts even have rooftop pools and award-winning restaurants. No matter what type of hotel you’re looking for or what your budget is, there’s something for everyone here. Updated August 2024: Incoming, we've spruced up this list with not one, but two new irresistible stays: The Westin and Element Fort Lauderdale. Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every hotel featured below, we've based our list on top reviews and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

One hundred and fifty miles south of mainland Florida, Key West floats at the end of the road as the southernmost point in the continental United States. An offbeat, come-as-you-are island, it’s long attracted writers, artists, drifters, and outdoorsmen drawn to its freedom and natural beauty. From afternoons fishing or snorkeling near the Gulf Stream to casual day drinking on legendary Duval Street and the nightly sunset celebrations at Mallory Square, Key West has a way of bewitching its visitors. The charming Old Town district, lined with pastel “conch” cottages and Victorian-style mansions is also home to some of the island’s nicest resorts and historic inns that sit close to a whole host of great restaurants, bars, and attractions. But you’ll also find incredible hideaways in more off-the-beaten-path areas, from marina-front resorts on salty Stock Island to private cottages on Sunset Key and modern hotels across New Town. Read on for the best hotels to experience your own slice of Key West’s paradise. RECOMMENDED:🏠See the best Airbnbs in Key West🍲 Dine at the best restaurants in Key WestStay at the best family-friendly hotels in Key West This guide was recently updated by Travel Writer Shayne Benowitz. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. While we might not stay in every hotel featured below, we've based our list on top reviews and amenities to

When you think of the best parks in Orlando, you may instantly go to the theme parks, but we’re talking about green spaces and art installations. All around the city, from downtown to the outskirts of Orlando, parks of all kinds welcome locals and tourists to sit and enjoy the quiet sounds of nature. Not only do these parks give people a look at Florida’s unique landscapes, but you can also float in freshwater springs, enjoy sculptures from master artists, and more. Even cooler is that the best parks are often in the best neighborhoods, so after you’re done basking in the sun or hitting a walking trail, you can stop in for a bite to eat at one of Orlando’s best restaurants or sip on a cocktail during happy hour. With all of that in mind, these are the 11 best parks in Orlando. RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Orlando🍣 The best restaurants in Orlando🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Orlando🎡 The best things to do with kids in Orlando Megan Dubois is a journalist covering theme parks, travel and more. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

Whether you’re a local or a tourist in Orlando, everyone can enjoy the simple pleasures of evening happy hours. With discounted bar snacks and cheap cocktails or mocktails, many of Orlando’s best restaurants and bars also boast an incredible happy hour. No matter what neighborhood or theme park you're exploring, there’s a spot near you to belly up to the bar and enjoy a drink or two with friends. We’ve found a mix of cool local spots serving everything from flatbreads and fried green tomatoes to marinated olives and charcuterie boards paired with well drinks and glasses of wine. These are the 14 best happy hours in Orlando, and you’ll want to add them to your list of things to do in the city. Be sure to use a rideshare or designate a non-drinking driver to get to and from happy hour. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Orlando This guide was updated by Florida-based writer Megan duBois. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

Seafood lovers, rejoice! Even though Orlando isn’t right on the ocean, it’s still home to dozens of seafood restaurants ranging in style from high-end spots and steakhouses to 1950s-style oyster bars where everyone is family. The best seafood restaurants in Orlando are shipping their seafood daily from nearby towns, so you know you’re getting a fresh catch. No matter what neighborhood you live in or what theme park resort you’re visiting, there’s an incredible seafood restaurant nearby. If you’re like me and can’t get enough shrimp, oysters, lobster, and more, keep reading because these are the best seafood restaurants in Orlando. Just be sure to don a lobster bib if you’re going to really indulge somewhere. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in OrlandoThe best restaurants in Orlando This guide was updated by Florida-based writer Megan duBois. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

Orlando’s food scene is as diverse as the people who visit its incredible theme parks. From high-end dining worthy of a date night away from the kids to family-friendly restaurants that expose locals to new cuisines, there is no shortage of restaurants in Orlando. And even better for locals and tourists looking for a true epicurean experience, Orlando has caught the eye of the Michelin Guide, which has started awarding stars, Bib Gourmand designations, and Selected Restaurants for spots all over the city from downtown to the theme parks. If you’re looking to dine at one of the seven-starred restaurants or sole green-starred restaurants, then you’re in luck because they range from incredible sushi spots to theme park crown jewels. This guide was written by Orlando-based writer Megan duBois. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.  RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in Orlando

If you’re looking for a theme park with classic attractions in Orlando, look no further than Fun Spot America. The park’s Orlando location (there’s another one in Kissimmee) features everything from roller coasters and a Ferris wheel to bumper cars and big sack slides. The park has two different payment systems: a day pass, which gets you onto every attraction, and a pay-as-you-ride system, where different attractions cost different amounts. What’s new: This park doesn’t change much, but that’s part of the charm because it’s a spot where old-school fun can be had around every corner. Time Out tip: Fun Spot Orlando has the city’s only wooden roller coaster, White Lightning, which can reach speeds of 48 miles per hour.

Epcot is usually known as Walt Disney World’s adult-centric park with festivals that encourage eating and drinking all day and popping in and out of shows about each country represented in the World Showcase. The park recently completed its multi-year upgrades, which include a walk-through attraction inspired by Moana and a new nighttime fireworks show. This is also where you can ride the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind rollercoaster, which features a reverse launch. What’s new: The newest thing at Epcot is the completely renovated Test Track attraction. The new version of the popular ride features new scenes inside that showcase modern automotive technology, but the outside track will still have you speeding around at 65 miles per hour. There’s also a new lounge at Epcot, GEO-82, which is hiding inside Spaceship Earth. Time Out tip: Try to visit the park on a weekday versus a weekend, especially during festivals. The park can get very crowded on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays with locals and tourists looking to enjoy the nice weather and tasty bites.

SeaWorld Orlando is a great park for coaster enthusiasts and animal lovers. The expansive park shows off all sorts of creatures from the depths of the sea, including dolphins, whales and adorable penguins. Adults will love the high-speed coasters like Kraken and Manta, while kids will enjoy seeing their favorite Sesame Street friends at Sesame Street Land. Be sure to ride on the Sky Tower to see the entire park from a bird’s-eye view and get a panoramic vista of Orlando. What’s new: Expedition Odyssey is the newest attraction at the park. It simulates the feeling of flying over the Arctic with sweeping views of glaciers and icebergs. After the ride ends, you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of Arctic animals like beluga whales and walruses. Time Out tip: You can schedule tours to learn more about some of the animals at SeaWorld, including dolphins, sea lions, penguins and sharks. Tours should be made ahead of time, but there are sometimes slots available at the park.

Even though it’s technically a water park, Universal Orlando Resort classifies Volcano Bay as a theme park. From a lazy river to body plunge slides that blast you through the centerpiece for everyone to see, there’s fun for the whole family. Volcano Bay is also home to some of Universal's best food and drinks, like the scrumptious Waturi Fusion ice cream, a colorful twisted soft serve. What’s new: There’s nothing new at the park this year, but there’s still plenty of fun to be had. Time Out tip: Get to the park early, especially on warmer days. This will ensure you get a beach chair in your ideal area (I love the beach near the wave pool) without having to search too hard.

The cutest theme park to open in Orlando is the Peppa Pig Theme Park, part of the LEGOLAND Florida Resort. The park is mainly for preschoolers and has rides based on the popular cartoon series it is named after (no great surprise there). Many of the attractions do not have a height requirement, meaning even younger kids can enjoy a day at the theme park. What’s new: The park hasn’t added anything new since it opened in 2022, but that’s not a big deal since it’s mainly geared toward younger kids. Time Out tip: There are plenty of areas for kids to run around and enjoy being outside at the park. And when it’s time for a break, head to Mr. Potato’s Showtime Arena to catch a live show with the Peppa Pig characters.

Gatorland is known for its up-close encounters with real alligators. The park features zip lines, an off-road vehicle ride, a petting zoo and the ability to be a trainer for the day. Along with the thrills, you can also see a variety of animals, including birds, capybara, big cats, snakes and other reptiles. What’s new: The newest attraction at Gatorland is Croc Rock Adventure. On this daring adventure, you’ll rock climb, walk across a cable bridge and ride a 350-foot-long zip line. Time Out tip: For a true Florida experience, try the Gator Night Shine experience, which is $25 per person. During the tour, you’ll make your way to the Gatorland Alligator Breeding Marsh to spot alligators at night and feed them.

At LEGOLAND Theme Park, everything is bigger and better than any kid could have imagined, with attractions like Lost Kingdom Adventure and LEGO NINJAGO World. When it’s time to take a break, head over to Pirate’s Cove to watch Brickbeard’s Water Sports Stunt Show on the lake that backs up to the LEGOLAND property. What’s new: While there’s not anything new at the park this year, in 2026, LEGOLAND will be launching a new space-themed indoor rollercoaster. Time Out tip: Be sure to get the apple fries at the park! They are easily the best treat at LEGOLAND Theme Park.

Universal Islands of Adventure is the place for Harry Potter fans. The park plays host to wizards, witches and goblins as they take flight on attractions like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. On the other side of the park, you’ll find a land dedicated to Dr. Seuss characters, Marvel Super Hero Island (where you can fly high with the Incredible Hulk and Spider-Man) and a Jurassic Park-themed land. What’s new: Jurassic World VelociCoaster is still the newest thing at this park, but you can continue to live your best wizard’s life nearby at an all-new Harry Potter-themed land at Universal’s Epic Universe park. Time Out tip: Order breakfast or lunch at the Three Broomsticks, which specializes in British fare. Take your meal outside to the patio to watch the VelociCoaster whiz by.

Universal Studios Florida is home to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, E.T. Adventure and The Mummy, among other attractions. Inside Diagon Alley, you can zip through Gringotts Bank on Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts and drink a glass of Butterbeer with your pals at the Leaky Cauldron. After channeling your inner wizard, hop on a bike with E.T. to get him back to his home planet on E.T. Adventure. Universal fans also know this is the best ride to walk through the queue because of the iconic smell that hits you the moment you walk into the forest. What’s new: Last summer, Universal revealed its newest area, DreamWorks Land, geared toward younger guests. The land features a Trolls-themed, family-friendly rollercoaster, a stage show filled with DreamWorks characters and more. Time Out tip: Be sure to check out the times guide on the Universal app for the latest entertainment offerings, like the cute Universal Mega Movie Parade. The parade features floats themed to some of the most popular movies and franchises in history, like Jurassic Park, E.T. and Trolls.

There really is nothing like walking down Main Street, USA at Walt Disney World. Magic Kingdom is filled with nostalgia for young and old, with rides like Space Mountain and Jungle Cruise, and characters like Mickey Mouse and Snow White parading down the street, waving to guests. The park recently opened a new version of the popular Country Bear Jamboree, which is now called the Country Bear Musical Jamboree. And work has already begun on new Villains-themed and Cars-themed lands at the park.  What’s new: Starting July 20, you can find a spot on Main Street, USA to see the new nighttime parade, Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away. The beautiful parade features characters from movies like Moana, Peter Pan, Coco and Encanto. And later this year, the park will open a new Pirates of the Caribbean-themed lounge called the Beak and Barrel.  Time Out tip: If your family wants to see Disney Starlight, be sure to get a spot on the parade route at least 45 minutes before the show. There will be two showings each evening, at 9 and 11pm.

There’s something exciting about a brand-new theme park opening in the heart of Orlando. Universal Epic Universe features five themed worlds, plus a host of dining, shopping and entertainment offerings throughout the park. Don’t miss The Untrainable Dragon show inside How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, as well as riding through Frankenstein Manor in Dark Universe and zipping through the Ministry of Magic inside the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. And when it’s time for a sweet treat, head straight to Frosty Moon where you can build an out-of-this-world soft-serve ice cream sundae. What’s new: The entire park is new, so there’s a lot to explore. There are also three new Universal hotels near Epic Universe. Try to stay at one of these to get the most out of your time at the new park. Time Out tip: If you really want to meet Toothless in Berk, you’ll need to head there first thing in the morning, or late in the evening, since the line to meet the dragon gets long very fast.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park has lands dedicated to Africa and Asia that will make you feel like you’re traveling through real-world locations, and the park also has fictional lands dedicated to the worlds of Avatar and dinosaurs. While many people will race off to ride Avatar Flight of Passage first thing in the morning, real Disney pros know that the first stop should always be Kilimanjaro Safaris, because this is when the animals are the most active. If you’ve never heard a lion roar after your morning coffee, you’re really missing out. What’s new: This park is getting ready to receive a major upgrade to its DinoLand U.S.A. area. Part of this land is already closed to make way for a new Encanto-themed ride, plus a new carousel. Additionally, the popular Dinosaur ride will close later this year to make way for an Indiana Jones-themed attraction.  Time Out tip: Don’t skip the walking trails around the park, which have great viewing areas for some cute animals like tigers, gorillas and more. I love the Maharaja Jungle Trek, where you can see one of the park’s newest additions, a baby tiger named Bakso. 

We're willing to bet you know at least one kid who loves Peppa Pig. The British TV show has been enthralling youthful audiences around the world for almost two decades and has even generated a generation of American kids with fake British accents (seriously). Well, all those millions of young Peppa fans will soon have their own dedicated theme park in the United States that they can bug their parents to visit. Move over Disney World, Peppa Pig is headed to Florida.  The new theme park is slated to open in Orlando, Florida in 2022 and will feature rides, attractions, a water play area and live shows all catering to preschool-age children and their families. Kids will have the opportunity to meet Peppa, George, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig and the rest of the animal gang as you explore the adorable world that looks like it’s been dropped right out of your TV and into central Florida.  Peppa fans will love rides such as Grandad Dog’s Pirate Boat Ride, where little piggies can hop aboard and set sail for Pirate Island, and Peppa Pig’s Balloon Ride, where you get to fly high above the park in one of Miss Rabbit’s hot air balloons. Other rides feature characters like Grampy Rabbit and Mr. Bull.  The park will also feature two play zones: A splash pad where kids can mimic jumping in muddy puddles (Peppa's favorite pastime) filled with fountains, slides and interactive water features perfect for hot Florida summers and a Pirate Island where everyone in the family can look for buried treasur

After a year of being deprived of the special kind of magic that is Disney World fireworks, the theme parks are introducing two new shows this fall—just in time for the park’s 50th anniversary.  The celebration begins October 1, and the resort-wide party is set to last a whopping 18 months and feature fun new attractions, destination-worthy new dishes and (drum roll, please) two brand-new firework shows at Magic Kingdom and EPCOT.  At Magic Kingdom Park, the new ’Disney Enchantment’ show will light up the night with dazzling colors around Cinderella Castle and down Main Street, USA. The show will feature an all-new soundtrack, lighting, fireworks and projections—not just on the castle itself, but all the way down Main Street, too.  Artist concept courtesy Disney Meanwhile, when the lights go down around World Showcase Lagoon at EPCOT, Mickey fans will be in awe of the highly anticipated new show, ’Harmonious.’ The fireworks display will be one of the largest ever presented at a Disney park, combining Disney music with pyrotechnics, actual moving fountains, and fantastic lighting. For the ’Harmonious’ soundtrack, classic Disney songs have been reinterpreted and re-recorded in more than a dozen languages by a group of 240 different artists from around the world.  Can’t wait that long for some Disney magic? Disney World is currently open for business, and starting July 1, both Magic Kingdom Park and EPCOT will bring back their fireworks shows with the same nighttime spectacula