The Travel Diaries

Orlando Uncovered - Destination Special

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Episode notes

Today we’re uncovering one of the most awe-inspiring destinations on the planet - Orlando, Florida. Orlando is the most visited destination in the USA, and after listening to this episode, you’ll understand why. 


It’s the theme park capital of the world, home to seven of the world’s top theme parks. From Magic Kingdom to Universal Studios, there's something for everyone.

And there’s a brand new theme park opening in May 2025, Universal’s Epic Universe. It’s set to feature over 50 attractions, entirely new lands, including the much-anticipated Super Nintendo World, where guests can step into the world of Mario Kart and Yoshi’s Adventure.


My first guest today knows a thing or two about these parks - Katie Ellison is a content creator who has visited Orlando countless times with her three children. She’ll take us on a whirlwind through her top picks of Disney’s parks. She’ll also share her favourite places to chill after a busy day at the parks - because as you’ll hear, Orlando isn’t just about the theme parks. It’s got beautiful green spaces, cute neighbourhoods, a really burgeoning food scene…and that’s where our next guests come in - travel content creators Ryan and Jade from Live the Dash. They recently took a trip to Orlando where they skipped the theme parks entirely, and focussed on everything else the city has to offer.


They’ll show us just how diverse Orlando is as a destination, whether it’s zooming across the headwaters on an airboat ride or kayaking down crystal clear rivers, they tell us how they fell in love with Orlando’s natural beauty.


So, whether you're planning a theme park-packed family trip or looking to discover the hidden gems of Orlando, this episode will shine a light on everything you need to know.


Katie’s Destination Recap:


  • Magic Kingdom Park
  • Disney’s Hollywood Studios
  • Disney’s Animal Kingdom
  • Disney’s Boardwalk
  • Disney Springs
  • Disney’s Contemporary Resort
  • Universal Islands of Adventure
  • Universal Studios Florida
  • Universal CityWalk
  • Universal Volcano Bay
  • Winter Park
  • Celebration
  • WonderWorks


Ryan & Jade’s:

  • Walt Disney World Swan Reserve
  • Courtyard Orlando Lake Buena Vista at Marriott Village
  • Dezerland Park
  • Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards 
  • Boggy Creek Airboat Rides
  • Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
  • Orlando Eye at ICON Park
  • The Ravenous Pig, Winter Park
  • The Greenery Creamery


If you’re inspired to explore more, head over to VisitOrlando.com where you’ll find all the travel tips, deals, and information you need to plan the perfect Orlando holiday. You can also make an appointment with an Orlando Vacation Planner for free, personalised holiday planning suggestions, via phone, email or Whatsapp. 


And if you’d like to hear even more about Orlando, tune in to my Fantastic Florida Destination Special from a couple of seasons back, where Orlando is a big focus too.



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