Orlando International Airport (MCO) serves as a major hub for travelers heading to Florida’s theme parks, beaches, and attractions. Whether you have a short connection or a longer layover, this guide will help you decide whether to explore the city or make the most of your time at the airport.
Before You Leave the Airport
Essential Information
| Visa Requirements | Check IATA Travel Centre for your nationality and destination |
| Language | English is widely spoken in Orlando |
| Currency | US Dollar (USD). Use ATMs or a Wise/Revolut card for best exchange rates – avoid airport currency counters |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time (ET) |
Immigration & Security Timing
Always factor in immigration and security time when deciding whether to leave the airport. As a rule of thumb, you need at least 6+ hours total layover time to comfortably leave the airport and explore: 1 hour for immigration, 2-3 hours for your return buffer, plus exploration time.
Getting to the City from Orlando Airport
For specific transit options and current schedules, visit the Orlando International Airport website. Common options include:
- Rental Cars – Best for groups or longer layovers
- Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) – Convenient for solo travelers and small groups
- Public Transit – Check airport website for bus and train options
- Shuttles – Available through various companies at ground transportation level
Note: Always confirm return travel time to the airport before leaving. Budget extra time for traffic, especially during peak hours.
What to Do During Your Layover
Short Layover (2-4 hours)
With limited time, stay near the airport or explore the terminal itself:
- Grab a meal or snack at airport restaurants and cafes
- Browse duty-free shops
- Find a quiet seating area to rest
- Use airport WiFi to catch up on work or entertainment
- Visit a family-friendly area if traveling with children
Medium Layover (4-8 hours)
You have time to explore nearby attractions or the city center:
- International Drive – Shopping, dining, and entertainment just minutes from the airport
- Downtown Orlando – Museums, restaurants, and cultural attractions (20-30 minutes away)
- Theme Park Visits – Some travelers with longer layovers visit nearby parks, though this requires careful timing
- Relaxation – Spa services or lounge access for rest and refreshment
Long Layover (8+ hours)
With significant time, you can experience Orlando more fully:
- Visit major attractions like theme parks (with advance planning)
- Explore multiple neighborhoods and dining districts
- Take a guided city tour
- Enjoy water parks or outdoor activities
- Book a hotel room or cabin-style rest space if you need sleep
Quick Tips for Your Layover
- Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before landing – airport WiFi can be unreliable
- Pack a layover bag inside your carry-on with snacks, entertainment, a change of clothes, and basic toiletries for easy access
- Bring an empty water bottle to fill after security – staying hydrated helps manage jet lag
- Use luggage storage services like Bounce or Stasher near the airport ($5-10/bag/day) instead of airport lockers
- Eat in the city, not the airport – airport food is 2-3x more expensive than city restaurants
Travel Tips by Group Type
Traveling with Family?
- Most major airports have baby care rooms with changing tables, bottle warmers, and nursing areas
- Download offline entertainment before your layover – airport WiFi may be slow or time-limited
- Never exchange money at airport currency counters – rates are terrible. Use ATMs or a Wise card instead
Solo Traveler?
- Keep your most valuable items (passport, phone, wallet) in a cross-body bag or hidden money belt when exploring
- Get an eSIM before traveling (Airalo, Holafly) for instant data without hunting for WiFi
- Share your location with a trusted contact when exploring a new city solo
- One-time lounge day passes are available: Alaska ~$39, American ~$45, Delta ~$49, United ~$59
Traveling with a Group?
- Add 15-30 minutes ‘group tax’ to all time estimates – groups move slower through immigration and security
- Designate a ‘group leader’ before the layover who manages timing, headcount, and communication
- Use WhatsApp or a group chat for real-time coordination – share departure gate and boarding time as a pinned message
- For groups, budget 2.5-3 hours before international departure and 60 minutes before domestic when returning to the airport
- Use Splitwise to automatically calculate who owes what – essential for groups sharing transport, food, and activities
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave OLA airport during a layover?
Yes, you can leave Orlando airport during a layover if you have sufficient time. However, always factor in immigration (1 hour), security (30 minutes), and return travel time (2-3 hours). A minimum of 6+ hours total layover time is recommended to comfortably explore outside the airport. For shorter layovers, stay near the airport or explore the terminal.
What is there to do at OLA during a layover?
At the airport, you can dine at restaurants and cafes, browse duty-free shops, rest in seating areas, and use airport WiFi. If you leave the airport, Orlando offers International Drive attractions, downtown museums and restaurants, theme parks (with advance planning), water parks, and various dining and shopping districts depending on your layover length.
How long of a layover do I need at OLA?
For short layovers (2-4 hours), stay at the airport. For medium layovers (4-8 hours), you can explore nearby attractions like International Drive or downtown Orlando. For long layovers (8+ hours), you have time to visit major attractions, multiple neighborhoods, or even theme parks with careful planning. Always add extra time for immigration, security, and unexpected delays.
Are there lounges at OLA?
Yes, lounges are available at Orlando airport. You can access them through airline memberships, Priority Pass (which gives access to 1,400+ airport lounges worldwide – some credit cards include it free), or one-time day passes. Solo travelers can purchase individual passes: Alaska ~$39, American ~$45, Delta ~$49, United ~$59. Priority Pass rates vary by location.
Is there luggage storage at OLA?
Yes, luggage storage is available. Services like Bounce, Stasher, and LuggageHero partner with local businesses near the airport and cost $5-10 per bag per day – much cheaper than airport lockers. Groups can book multiple bags together for discounted rates.
Make the Most of Your Layover
Whether you have a quick connection or several hours to spare, Orlando offers something for every traveler. Use the Yopki layover calculator to determine exactly how much time you have and get personalized recommendations for your specific layover duration.
Ready to plan your layover? Use our layover calculator to get a customized itinerary based on your flight times and interests.