Are you planning a solo trip to Orlando? With its sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, theme parks and amazing nightlife, I’m not surprised! Orlando is a great destination for solo travellers because whether you’re on a journey of self-discovery or you’re hoping to spend a whole weekend on rollercoasters, there’s plenty to tick every box and still leave you wanting more! 

With welcoming locals and a great infrastructure for getting around, Orlando is a great place to visit if you’re new to travelling solo, or you want somewhere exciting to explore. In this post, we’ll explore where to eat, where to stay, and what you might like to experience in the City Beautiful. Read on to find out more. 

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Getting Around Orlando Solo

As a solo traveller, getting around easily is essential. While Orlando has a good public transport system, if your trip involves visiting multiple attractions that are located across town, or you just want to see where your trip takes you, then you’re going to want some flexibility, too. This is why looking into car hire at Orlando airport comes in. 

Having your own car to get around Orlando means that you can explore beyond the theme parks and head to other areas like Winter Park or Lake Eola, or spend a full day at the beach without worrying about missing the last bus back to your hotel! Many hotels and restaurants have valet parking, and roads around Orlando are incredibly easy to navigate. If your time in Orlando is short, then having your own transport means you can easily plan your daily itinerary without the added stress of ride shares or buses! 

Where to Stay as a Solo Traveller

Here in Orlando, you’ll find a wide variety of different accommodations from big resorts and hotel chains to boutique hotels and Airbnb options. The type of accommodation you want will depend on your budget and what you want from your solo trip, but the two main areas I recommend include:

• Downtown Orlando: Perfect if you want an artsy, urban vibe near nightlife and Lake Eola.
• International Drive or I-Drive: A great location for solo tourists who want to be as close as possible to the main attractions without paying higher prices. 

When booking accommodation, always look through as many independent reviews as possible. And choose a hotel with a 24-hour front desk so that no matter what time of day it is, you can always speak to someone if you need advice or you fancy a late-night snack after a busy day in the parks! 

Where to Eat (Alone)

One of the biggest hurdles for solo travellers is having to eat alone. It can leave many of us feeling a little stressed and awkward! But don’t let something so trivial put you off experiencing some of Orlando’s most famous food spots! Look for eateries and bars that have a relaxed vibe or have bar seating. Solo dining doesn’t have to be awkward; it can actually be a rewarding and empowering experience. Here are some of the top places we’d recommend for solo eating in Orlando.

• East End Market: A food hall with local vendors, great for casual solo meals.
• Se7en Bites: Comfort food in the Milk District, ideal for brunch.
• Domu: Popular ramen spot with bar seating; good for solo dinners.
• Wine Bar George: A Disney Springs wine bar with small plates and great solo seating.

Orlando restaurants usually offer bar seating or communal tables, which makes solo dining simple. However, if you’re still feeling a little uncomfortable, don’t worry! There are plenty of food kiosks and food trucks dotted around the city, and they’re the perfect opportunities to try local bites like Cuban sandwiches, key lime pie, or southern comfort food!

What to Do In Orlando

Orlando is literally bursting with activities and experiences, and while it’s easy to think that everything is catered towards families or couples, that’s simply not the case. Here are some of our favourite things to do as a solo traveller in Orlando.

Visit Lake Eola Park: A great way to spend an afternoon, away from the hustle and bustle of the main city, Lake Eola Park is a slice of paradise that’s perfect for walking, paddle boarding, people watching, or just enjoying some fresh air and a picnic. With lush greenery, beautiful flower gardens, and plenty of wildlife to spot, it’s a great location for a solo traveller.

The Theme Parks: Obviously, a trip to one of Orlando’s many theme parks is a must for any traveller! But, did you know that parks such as Universal and Disney offer single rider lines, which means you won’t have to worry about waiting in line for hours! 

Museums and Culture: For those who want something a little more educational, Orlando can certainly satisfy your curiosity with one of its wonderful museums. The Orlando Museum of Art is a must-visit, and the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is a great location to catch a show or a concert. 

Wellness and Relaxation: Are you hoping for some rest and relaxation during your trip? Why not book yourself a treatment or an afternoon at one of Orlando’s famous spas. The Ritz-Carlton or the Waldorf Astoria are world-class options. 

Tips for Solo Travellers

Travelling solo is an amazing experience, but it pays to exercise caution and use common sense when entering new situations or unfamiliar locations. Remember to stay connected with friends and family while you’re travelling and use a local SIM card. Always keep your valuables secure and give your family a copy of your itinerary. Trust your instincts—if something feels off or you feel uncomfortable, don’t ignore those feelings.

Final Thoughts…

Whether you’re travelling the whole of the US solo or you’re just planning a trip to Orlando, there’s plenty to see, do, and experience! Whether you hire a car and head out on your own or stick close to downtown, there’s plenty to enjoy at your own pace. So, why not take the leap and plan your own solo trip to the City Beautiful?