Once again, Orlando is the most popular U.S. destination for summer travel. Home to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios Orlando, Discovery Cove, Legoland and other attractions, an Orlando vacation has everything you need to make unforgettable family memories.

But there’s no rule that says you have to confine your vacation to theme parks. Orlando is also home to beautiful gardens, fabulous restaurants, charming neighborhoods and more. Explore Orlando in this quick travel guide.

3 reasons to buy travel insurance for your Orlando vacation

1. You don’t want to risk losing your vacation investment. An Orlando family vacation is not cheap. On average, a family of four might spend around $5,200 for a week at Walt Disney World — and that’s with budget lodgings, fast food and no airfare.¹ Add the cost of transportation, upgraded theme park tickets, and a fancier resort, and that cost might double.
   
   Trip cancellation and trip interruption benefits can reimburse your unused, prepaid, non-refundable trip expenses — including theme park tickets! — if you have to cancel or interrupt your Orlando vacation for a covered reason.
2. Rental car insurance is a must-have. If you’re staying outside the theme park resorts, renting a car is the simplest way to get around. Don’t pay the high insurance rates at the rental car counter! Save by purchasing the OneTrip Rental Car Protector, which gives you up to $50,000 in protection for covered loss, damage, and theft, with no deductible.
3. Insurance makes travel delays OK. Flight delays and baggage delays are especially challenging when you’re traveling with family. Plans with SmartBenefits® can automatically pay you $100 per insured person, per day (including kids) if you experience a covered travel delay or baggage delay (up to the maximum no-receipts limit). No receipts are required — just proof of the delay.

Find the right travel insurance plan for a U.S. vacation

Before you head to Orlando, download the free Allianz TravelSmart app. This intuitive travel app helps you easily access your policy, track flights, get travel alerts, and contact 24-hour assistance.

3 of the best things to do in Orlando

1. Do Disney. The Magic Kingdom never fails to amaze. Some of the newest attractions include the reverse-launch coaster Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and the 4D Remy's Ratatouille Adventure. Prepare for the unveiling of an all-new Epcot, too.
2. Find serenity among the flowers. The Harry P. Leu Gardens in downtown Orlando are a welcome respite from the theme park frenzy. Explore 50 acres of lush tropical gardens, with fun quests and activities for kids.
3. Explore the cosmos. About an hour from Orlando is the Kennedy Space Center, where (if you time it right) you can watch a live rocket launch. The visitors’ center features an Apollo spacecraft and other artifacts, the chance to meet a real astronaut, and a new immersive experience called Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex.
   
   

3 of the best hotels in Orlando

Orlando has endless lodging options. If you’re purchasing a theme park package or simply love the idea of free park transportation and other perks, then staying on site is likely the way to go. Off-site properties, especially those closest to theme parks, compete by offering guests freebies, from breakfasts to transportation and more. These hotels often do have the edge on price and room; suites and kitchenettes are much more common outside the parks than inside. And if you have a big family or are planning a multi-family trip, consider a home rental.

With a lagoon-style pool, a white-sand beach and tropical cocktails, Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando makes you feel like you’re in the islands. Plus, enjoy early park admission and free Universal Express Unlimited ride access.

If you’re not really a resort person, check into The Delaney Hotel: an inviting boutique hotel in Orlando. Luxurious and modern guestrooms feature giant TVs, posh bath amenities, and gourmet coffee.

Last but not least, there’s Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser. More than just a hotel, it’s a two-night immersive experience designed to make you feel as if you’re part of the Star Wars world. Meet costumed characters, dine on alien-looking food, and role-play a customized story. Is it expensive? Yes. But many guests say they were so moved by the experience, they ended up in tears.

3 of the best restaurants in Orlando

Maxine’s on Shine calls itself “Sexy, Comfortable, Delicious” — and lives up to all three. Expect surprises like live performances, costumed staff, and visits by local artists. A beloved brunch spot, Maxine’s is famous for its fried green tomatoes, crab cakes, and chicken and waffles.

One of the best sushi restaurants in Orlando is Kabooki Sushi, which combines “the vibrancy of Mexican flavor, the sophistication of French preparation, and the curated integrity of Japan.” Try the omakase tasting menu devised by James Beard Award-nominated chef and owner Henry Moso.

Eater Miami calls 1921 Mount Dora “the most gorgeous restaurant in all Central Florida,” for good reason.² This fine-dining favorite occupies a historic home and displays art on loan from the neighboring Mount Dora Modernism Museum. On the menu you’ll find creative takes on classic Florida cuisine — think ash-crusted mahi mahi with Pencil Cob grits, or diver scallops with Sea Island Red Peas.

Ready to plan your Orlando getaway? Remember: Travel insurance is a must! To maximize your coverage window, buy your travel protection plan as soon as you pay your first trip deposit. Get a quote today!

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