You've got questions and we've got answers.
We answer your questions about the weather, travel and lodging options, where to find Santa, and more.
- Q. What is there to do in Orlando during the Christmas holiday?
- Q. What is the weather like?
- Q. There's no snow in Orlando... how can it feel like the holidays?
- Q. Where is the best place to stay?
- Q. What should we pack?
- Q. What are the most popular holiday attractions?
- Q. What about holiday meals?
- Q. Where can you see Santa?
Q. What is there to do in Orlando during the Christmas holiday?
There is plenty to do in Orlando during the holidays! The entire town gets into the act... from the airport to the hotels and resorts. Try to imagine the theme parks decked out in miles of garland and decorations, with towering Christmas trees and millions of lights. Some resorts -- such as Gaylord Palms® Resort in Kissimmee -- have become Christmas attractions in themselves, providing holiday shows and attractions for guests and Orlando-area tourists and visitors.
Q. What is the weather like?
While the weather is frighful for much of the U.S., Orlando's temperatures in November and December are, well, delightful. Expect temperatures in the 70s during the day. However, the thermometer can change quickly this time of year. Bring a jacket or sweatshirt for evening activities. As for the swimming pools... you are on your own. But remember, most Orlando hotel pools are heated.
Q. There's no snow in Orlando... how can it feel like the holidays?
Ahhh. This is the question we are often asked. Believe me, Orlando makes up for its lack of snow in a big way. Often, visitors say that Orlando feels more "Christmasy" than other cities covered in snow. But, in Orlando, the actual temperature hasn't stopped the snow... or ice! For instance, it "snows" every night at the town of Celebration, and during Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party in Magic Kingdom®. Although the snow is manufactured using tiny soap bubbles, it creates a nice effect. Taking it one step further, Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee trucks in two million pounds of ice to create an amazing hand-carved walk-through attraction. The spectacle -- called ICE! -- is hand-carved by a group of artisans from China, and is kept at a chilly 9 degrees. But don't worry... everybody is given a winter coat to wear when inside the attraction. You'll also find ICE! Skating at Gaylord Palms Resort.
Q. Where is the best place to stay?
That's not a fair question. But it would have to be Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee. This destination resort, located five minutes from Walt Disney World®, features the most dazzling holiday decor and programming. The Orlando Sentinel called it the "grand champion" of Orlando hotels when it comes to Christmas. The resort's 4.5-acre soaring glass-covered atriums are filled with holiday splendor. This is also the resort that hosts "ICE!," a walk-through attraction that is hand-carved from two million pounds of ice!
Q. What should we pack?
Packing for the holidays in Orlando isn't too different from other times of the year. Be sure to pack a sweater or jacket for the cooler evenings. Also, take along your Santa hat. You'll want it for the numerous photo opportunities!
Q. What are the most popular holiday attractions?
There are holiday activities in Orlando to meet every need. Use our Holiday Planner to help plan your stay. We suggest advance purchase of tickets for two of the most popular attractions: Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party and ICE! at Gaylord Palms. Also, if you are visiting Epcot® for Candlelight Processional, we suggest you queue up at least 90 minutes in advance for this spectacular and moving show.
Q. Where can I eat Christmas Brunch or Thanksgiving Brunch in Orlando? What about holiday meals in Orlando?
Most Orlando-area restaurants serve special meals during the holiday season. One tip: make reservations in advance, as the best restaurants fill up quickly. One of the most popular holiday brunches in town is served at Villa de Flora under the atrium of Gaylord Palms Resort. This brunch has been named "Best of Florida" three years in a row by Florida Monthly magazine!
Q. Where can you see Santa?
Santa makes stops all over Orlando, hoping to meet every good boy and girl. Check out our Where's Santa? section for more details.
