So you’re at the supposedly happiest place on earth but you’re not feeling well, very happy about it.
Well listen up right now; there are plenty of pros in exploring it on your own while avoiding the abundance of families who just seem to having WAY TOO MUCH FUN.
But if theme parks really aren’t your bag, Orlando and the surrounding area actually has a lot more to offer than you might think.
From world class shows to relaxing spas, beautiful beaches and upscale shopping, you can relax or play as much as you want.
1. Try and embrace it!
While the area clearly attracts many excitable families, remember you could be having a lot of fun too! As a single person you can take advantage of the fast-moving single rider queues at the area’s world class theme parks. It’s also easier to get FastPass+ (queue-jumping) reservations at Disney if there is only one of you. Plus you don’t have to compromise what you want to do. If you don’t fancy getting up? Well you don’t have to! If you fancy a day at the pool, well of course you can! No questions asked.
2. Get out and make friends (if you want to)
While yes, the area is a haven for families there are also a fair few people who actually choose to visit the area on their own. Use the solo rider queue as an opportunity to strike up conversation or arrange to meet up with other solo visitors in advance by checking out forums on credible websites such as TripAdvisor. Most visitors are in a good mood when they are in Orlando so it’s pretty easy to meet new pals. Failing that, go and have a few drinks in a bar in Downtown Orlando where families generally don’t go…
3. Go out of season!
Obviously most families will be visiting during school holidays so time your visit accordingly. It will be cheaper then too!
4. Stay in a business-focused hotel
Disney and Universal resorts are clearly going to be briming with children so stay off site. If you really can’t face the possibility of bumping into happy, smiling faces hire a villa or apartment.
5. Take advantage of getting into the best restaurants
With no reservations. You are much more likely to get in if you rock up on your own as opposed to a party of six. Plus if table service really isn’t your bag, Flying Fish at Disney’s Boardwalk Hotel is a example of a great restaurant that offers delicious countertop dining at the bar. The bar at Todd English’s Bluezoo at Walt Disney’s Swan resort is another great place to dine solo. If you fancy a few drinks, the bar at Seasons 52 on Sandlake Road is another popular and friendly choice. Enjoy!
6. Go and see a show!
If you’re tearing your hair out and you need an escape route go and see a show. Again, the positive thing about being by yourself is that you can often nab a last minute – and cheaper ticket – to one of the amazing theatre productions on offer. The Blue Man Group at Universal’s City Walk is a popular choice, as well as Cirque Du Soleil’s La Nouba at Downtown Disney.
7. Take solitude at one of the area’s amazing spas
This option can guarantee you the kid free zone that you might be craving. The area has some fantastic facilities at the top hotels such as the Ritz Carlton.
8. Indulge your inner adrenaline junkie
You can drive racing cars, swim with dolphins, take a hot air balloon ride, sky dive, do a bungee jump or dodge alligators along the Everglades on a hovercraft. There literally is something for everyone!
9. Keep calm with a game of golf
The area is also home to some of the best golf facilities in the world, with courses designed by greats including Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman.
10. Visit one of the beautiful nearby beaches
There’s Daytona, Sarasota or Cocoa. Or chill out at your resort pool in the day when most of the families are at the theme parks.
11. Visit an art gallery or museum in downtown Orlando
It may come as a surprise to learn the area has a vibrant arts scene. Check out the City Arts Factory or the impressive Dalí Museum.
12. Go shopping!
From the discount Premium Outlets to high end shopping at the Millenia Mall, there is something for everyone.
(Feature image: Christian Benseler)
