In the United States, there are few destinations that are as popular as Orlando. Of course, that has a lot to do with a little cartoon mouse named Mickey, but there’s so much more that this vibrant Florida city has to offer!
If you’re planning a trip to Orlando, there are probably a number of things on your to-do list. You should be careful, though, as some of the things that Orlando has to offer are total tourist traps. Sure, they might be popular for a reason, but that doesn’t mean you’ll want to suffer the crowds in order to experience them.
But, just what are these Orlando tourist traps, particularly the ones you should avoid at all costs (provided that you can). That’s exactly what we’re going to be looking at! So strap in, and check out our rundown of Orlando’s worst tourist traps.
1. The Transformers Ride
When this ride first opened it was state of the art. Now, it’s starting to show its age. Instead, brave the line for Spiderman, and you’ll be much happier.
2. Gatorland
So you want to see the gators in Orlando, do you? Well there’s no reason to pay money for it, because they’re literally all over the shop.
3. Hash House a Go-Go
Likely, you’ve seen the pictures of this place posted on social media and thought you’d give it a try. Let’s just say the pictures are much better than the food…
4. Ming Court
If the environment is all that you care about, then by all means check this place out. But the food is a step below mall Asian food, so be warned…
5. The I-Drive Outlets
If you’ve got to get your outlet shopping in, then we suppose you can check out the I-Drive Outlets. But trust us when we tell you there are better nearby options.
6. Rocco’s Tacos
Honestly, this place isn’t that bad, and it can be a lot of fun. For an authentic tequila and tacos experience, though, you really ought to look elsewhere.
7. Bus Tours
Here’s a pro tip for vacationing in Florida: if you want to see everything that’s on the bus tours, just take a much cheaper (and tip-free) trip on the SunRail.
8. Winter Park
If you can find a “down time” to check out Winter Park, then by all means go for it. But, that won’t be easy, and if you go, you’ll be stuck in wall-to-wall crowds.
9. Ripley’s Believe It Or Not
Truth be told, they have these “museums” everywhere. So, why would you waste your time at one when there are other things to see in Orlando?
10. Old Town
It used to be all the rage, and now it’s just a place that people keep going to out of habit. Don’t fall into the trap!
11. Medieval Times
Yeah, a trip to Medieval Times is cool, but don’t you have something similar to go to back where you came from? Don’t waste your time in Orlando on this!
12. Toy Story Mania
You might not be able to get your kids to give up on the idea of checking this out, but if you can, you’ll be saving yourselves hours and hours of waiting…
13. Spirit of Aloha Luau
For dinner shows, it doesn’t really get much more popular than this. While entertaining, there are other less-trafficked dinner shows that are just as good.
14. The Florida Mall
If you’re interested in seeing a giant mall full of people, then the Florida mall is for you! But, who’s really interested in seeing a giant mall full of people?
15. Disney World
Look, unless you’ve got kids that simply have to go, there’s no reason to waste the time and money required for a day in Disney World. Some say it’s a magical place… We’re not convinced…