Your Guide to Disney’s Christmas Parties 2025

By Kate Cohen
Sept. 2, 2025

 

The holidays are a time for celebration, and there’s no better place to party than Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando.

 

Large streams of fireworks erupt against a dark sky over a whimsically lit Cinderella Castle.

 

Each year, they host two separately ticketed after-hours events full of extra special fun and festivities.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom and Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios are two of Disney’s most popular events every year.

Here’s a look at what you can expect if you plan to purchase tickets this year.

 

Key Takeaways

 

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom

Select Nights from Nov. 7 – Dec. 21, 2025

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is one of Magic Kingdom’s most highly anticipated events every year.

 

A cartoon Mickey and toy soldiers play instruments marching down the street.

 

Hot on the trail of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, this park-wide holiday celebration transforms the Most Magical Place on Earth into a winter wonderland.

The official Christmas party kicks off at 7 p.m., but guests with an event ticket can enter Magic Kingdom as early as 4 p.m.

Guests with regular Magic Kingdom day passes can enjoy the theme park until 6 p.m. when it becomes exclusive to those with event tickets.

 

Entertainment

 

Mickey and Minnie in holiday attire on a grand float with a Christmas tree gliding down Main St. USA.

 

With the number of live shows and exciting entertainment offered throughout Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, there’s never a dull moment

Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas Parade brings the streets of Magic Kingdom to life with dancing gingerbread men, ballroom dancers, marching toy soldiers, and your favorite Disney characters.

Holiday music, scents, and elaborate floats immerse party guests in festive fun from Frontierland to Main Street, U.S.A., offering plenty of great viewing spots.

As always, bringing up the rear of the parade is none other than Santa Claus himself.

Later in the evening, Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks show lights up Cinderella Castle with fireworks, castle projections, and breathtaking lighting effects.

Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration is a live show on Cinderella Castle Stage featuring talented performers and beloved Disney characters reminding the audience why Christmas is the happiest season of all.

Also performing on Cinderella Castle Stage is Frozen Holiday Surprise, starring Elsa, Anna, Kristoff, and the snowgies, who bring a delightful winter chill to a warm Central Florida season.

You can also get your groove on at several dance parties throughout Magic Kingdom, including the Disney Junior Jingle Jam in Tomorrowland.

 

Character Meet-and-Greets

 

Santa Claus waving from a red sleigh with Cinderella Castle glowing blue at night in the background.

 

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is the perfect place to say hello to some of your favorite characters.

Stop by Town Square Theatre to see Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in their finest holiday attire. Then, stick around to meet beloved holiday characters Sally and Santa Jack.

In Princess Fairytale Hall, Anna and Elsa are waiting in their holiday looks to wish you a Merry Christmas and snap a very special photo.

Then, head over to Storybook Circus to meet Santa himself at Santa’s Christmas Carnival, full of crafts and home to other festive holiday friends.

 

Enjoy Magic Kingdom Rides and Attractions

 

The sign for Jingle Cruise at Magic Kingdom surrounded by garland and Christmas lights.

 

A variety of classic Magic Kingdom rides and attractions will be available for guests’ enjoyment throughout the event. There are even a few taking on festive holiday overlays, including Space Mountain, Mad Tea Party, Tomorrowland Speedway, and Jungle – or Jingle Cruise.

Other fan favorites open during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party include Pirates of the Caribbean, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Peter Pan’s Flight, Seven Dwarves Mine Train, “it’s a small world,” and many more.

 

Exclusive Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Menus and Merch

 

A woman wearing a festive red spirit jersey faces away from the camera, looking at Cinderella Castle.

 

It wouldn’t be the holidays without traditional treats and festive flavors.

Included in your Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party ticket are hot cocoa, cookies, and other delicious goodies.

Additionally, a full menu of exclusive holiday dishes and delights will be available for purchase as well.

Be sure to stop by your favorite souvenir shop to pick up exclusive event merchandise so you can relive your holly jolly Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party memories year-round.

 

Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios

Select Nights Nov. 8 through Dec. 22, 2025

 

Cartoons of Mickey and Minnie Mouse in Christmas attire walking a red carpet in front of a golden theatre.

 

If you’re the kind of person who loves their Christmas season with a healthy dose of Bing Crosby and “It’s a Wonderful Life,” Jollywood Nights may be the perfect celebration for you.

Held at Hollywood Studios, this holiday celebration is full of vintage Hollywood glamour that transports you to a glittery era of Christmases past.

The theme park comes to life with decor like giant ornaments, bushy garlands, and glowing reindeer leaping from light posts overhead.

While the event officially begins at 7:30 p.m., ticket-holding guests can enter Hollywood Studios as early as 5:30 p.m. and enjoy the festivities until 12:30 a.m.

 

Entertainment

 

Miss Piggy and Kermit standing atop a pile of colorful presents in front of grand curtains onstage.

 

Hollywood Studios is a park known for exciting entertainment and during Jollywood Nights, you can catch special holiday-themed shows you won’t find anywhere else.

Disney Holidays in Hollywood is a dazzling musical stage show hosted by Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy and featuring appearances from characters like Mickey, Minnie, Belle, and Tiana.

Inspired by classic Hollywood holiday TV specials of yesteryear, this show is full of laughs, wonderful music, and nostalgia.

Still missing Halloween? Jollywood Nights features the “What’s This? Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along,” which lets guests simultaneously celebrate two holidays at once.

Spooky festive cheer abounds at the Hyperion theatre, including the “eerie yet enchanting glow of Halloween-meets-Christmas decorations.”

The Tip Top Club transports guests to a 1930’s-style jazz lounge with live holiday music that will transport you to a classy era of holiday splendor.

The Glisten Skating Show, performed on a synthetic rink in front of the Chinese Theatre, transports guests to a wintery wonderland. Here, world-class skaters perform to the sounds of classic holiday tunes and original Jollywood songs.

Visit Holiday Fiesta en la Calle, a lively Latin-inspired holiday street fair with food and drinks inspired by traditional Latin holiday warmth and spice.

At the Fiesta, you can meet Jose Carioca and Panchito from The Three Caballeros, and, new this year, Miguel from Coco.

In addition to special holiday productions, you can also catch performances of Hollywood Studios’ two brand new shows, “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” and “Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After.”

At 10 p.m. on event nights, head to the Chinese Theatre for Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!, a high-energy nighttime spectacular with fireworks, lasers, projections, and holiday music.

The show is even more magical with “snowfall” dusting Hollywood Boulevard and synced MagicBand+ effects.

 

Character Meet-and-Greets

 

Three women pose with Max Goof dressed as Powerline in front of a decorated silver Christmas tree.

 

Jollywood Nights party guests will have the opportunity to meet a variety of Disney characters throughout the evening.

Pose for pics with crowd-pleasers like Phineas and Ferb, Balloo and King Louie, and Max Goof in his chic Powerline costume. Stitch will be available for meet-and-greets, mischievously dressed as Santa Claus.

Pixar favorites including Mike Wazowski and Edna Mode will also be in attendance greeting guests.

Of course, classic Disney characters including Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and other friends will also be decked in their festive holiday best and ready for memorable meet-and-greets.

 

Enjoy Hollywood Studios Rides and Attractions

 

Hollywood Studios at night with a large projection show and blue lasers blasting into the sky.

 

Year-round, Hollywood Studios is known for its fantastic park areas inspired by Disney franchises like Star Wars and Toy Story.

Throughout the Jollywood Nights festivities, guests will still be able to enjoy some of the park’s most popular rides and attractions.

Head to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and ride Rise of the Resistance for an immersive experience that’s out of this world.

Looking to add a little thrill to your holiday season? Enjoy the frightful and famous Twilight Zone Tower of Terror or the adrenaline-pumping Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith.

Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, Slinky Dog Dash, and other popular rides will also be open throughout the event for guests to enjoy.

 

Exclusive Jollywood Nights Menus and Merch

 

Three dinosaur cookies with Santa hats against a twinkling backdrop.

 

Festive foodies will be excited to know there’s plenty of specialty holiday deliciousness waiting to be explored at Jollywood Nights.

New to the event this year is a specialty menu available at Backlot Express Restaurant, a quick service restaurant tucked behind Pixar Plaza and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

Collectors will also be eager to get their hands on exclusive merchandise, including a brand-new spirit jersey and new Ollie merch.

 

Enjoy a Holly Jolly Stay at Rosen Plaza

 

The front entrance of Rosen Plaza at night, with palm trees and landscaping wrapped in Christmas lights.

 

If tickets for either Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Jollywood Nights are on your Christmas list this year, you’re in for a real treat.

After a long night of joyous food, fun, and festivities, rest your head at a comfortable hotel where you’re a treasured guest year-round.

Rosen Plaza’s convenient location on International Drive and array of amenities make our hotel the perfect destination for an Orlando vacation or staycation.

So, celebrate the holiday season at Rosen Plaza this year!

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6 Fun Things to Do on Thanksgiving in Orlando

By Kate Cohen
Updated September 2, 2025

 

Thanksgiving is traditionally a day of gratitude, good food, and spending time with loved ones.

For some people, it’s also the best time to travel and make brand new traditions with friends and family.

 

A rustic and autumnal image of pumpkins, maize, and a bowl of persimmons.

 

If you happen to find yourself in Orlando for the holiday, you’ll be happy to know there’s plenty to do on Thanksgiving Day to make special new memories.

Here are a few of our favorite things to do on Thanksgiving in Orlando this year.

 

Key Takeaways

 

Hit the Pavement with a Turkey Trot

 

The logo for the 2025 Seniors First Turkey Trot 5k.

 

Get moving before you feast with a good ol’ fashioned Turkey Trot fun run.

The Seniors First Turkey Trot in downtown Orlando is an annual tradition celebrating its 36th year in 2025.

Join over 4,000 other runners, joggers, and walkers for a 5k that circles the beautiful Lake Eola.

All participants receive a finisher medal and an official event t-shirt, as well as bragging rights for being up and at ‘em first thing in the morning.

Be sure to dress in your best Thanksgiving-themed costumes to compete in the costume contest and practice your gobbling for a chance to win Best Turkey Call.

After the 5k is over, kids can enjoy a free Tot Trot to stretch their legs and burn off some energy.

Give thanks while you give back to the Orlando community. Proceeds from the Seniors First Turkey Trot 5k go directly to Seniors First, an organization dedicated to helping low-income older adults struggling to keep their independence at home.

Your registration costs help support local organizations like Meals on Wheels, In-Home Care, Neighborhood Lunch with Transportation, and Stepping Stone Medical Equipment Bank.

 

Let Someone Else Prepare the Feast

 

A plate with carrots, sliced turkey, mashed potatoes, and a Champagne flute with a mimosa.

 

Thanksgiving is about gratitude, family, and of course, food.

Whether you’re a guest of Rosen Plaza or an Orlando-area local looking for a little extra relaxation, our annual Thanksgiving buffet is the perfect way to celebrate.

We offer a true smorgasbord of classic holiday dishes and delicious new interpretations of traditional flavors of the season.

At the buffet table, you’ll find juicy slices of hand-carved turkey topped with rich gravy. Pile your plate high with classic autumn delights and a cornucopia of innovative new flavors prepared by our talented chefs.

Save room for dessert; there will be plenty of pies, cakes, and cobblers waiting to satisfy your sweet tooth at the end of the meal. (Or the beginning. We’re not here to judge.)

 

Head to the Theme Parks

 

The Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse statue surrounded by poinsettias with Cinderella Castle in the background.

 

The Most Magical Place on Earth is open 365 days a year, Thanksgiving included.

In fact, Thanksgiving Day is one of the most popular days to visit Orlando’s theme parks, so if you’re thinking about going, be sure to plan ahead.

By Thanksgiving Day, almost every theme park is already decked out with their holiday decorations, making it the perfect place to kick off the holiday season.

You can buy holiday merch, try specialty menu items designed for the festivities, and enjoy character meet-and-greets you can only find this time of year.

Whether you’re planning on spending the day at Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, or SeaWorld Orlando, you’ll make some wonderful Thanksgiving memories in a totally unique environment.

Who knows – maybe a theme park Thanksgiving will be your new family tradition!

 

Prep for Black Friday

Orlando is quite the shopping destination. Since Thanksgiving unofficially kicks off the holiday shopping season, it makes sense to try and cross some things off your list and take advantage of crazy Black Friday markdowns.

These days, all the shopping malls and outlets in Central Florida are closed on Thanksgiving Day. However, at the crack of dawn on Friday (if not earlier), most stores open their doors and offer some of the notoriously best sales of the year.

At Rosen Plaza, you’re a short drive away from the popular Orlando Premium Outlets where you can shop at your favorite stores and save on luxury brands from around the world.

If you haven’t made your holiday shopping list yet, now’s a great time.

 

See Orlando from a New Perspective

 

A large white Ferris wheel against a clear blue sky with several storefronts below.

 

Located in ICON Park on International Drive, the Orlando Eye is an epic observation wheel that can’t be missed.

Topping out at 400 feet, the Orlando Eye offers sprawling views of Central Florida. On beautiful, clear days, you can see everything from the nearby theme parks to Cape Canaveral and the Kennedy Space Center.

If you time your visit just right, you may even see some theme park fireworks in the distance.

You’ll spend the duration of the 20-minute ride in comfortable, air-conditioned, and stability-controlled capsules with room for you to stand, sit, and move around to get the best views.

A ride on the Orlando Eye is the perfect way to spend your Thanksgiving evening. (Yes, they’re open!)

 

Take it Easy at Rosen Plaza

 

The deck surrounding a crystal blue pool with palm trees and blue sky. A pool day at Rosen Plaza is one of our favorite things to do on Thanksgiving in Orlando.

 

If you’re on vacation at Rosen Plaza this Thanksgiving, embrace it.

November’s average high temp is 78, making it the perfect weather for pulling up a lounge chair by the pool and enjoying the sunshine.

You can also curl up in your comfortable room to enjoy our free Wi-Fi, watch a movie on one of our premium channels, or get your rest before a full day of Black Friday shopping.

Rosen Plaza is happy to be your home away from home for the holidays.

We’ll make sure you’re well-fed, well-rested, and well-entertained during your stay.

Of all the things we’re grateful for this year, your choice to stay at Rosen Plaza is what we appreciate most of all.

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Enjoy a Thanksgiving Buffet at Rosen Plaza

Updated August 26, 2025 by Abigail Bass

 

What’s better than a Thanksgiving table full of your favorite foods?

How about a Thanksgiving table full of your favorite foods that required you to do zero preparation or dishes?

At Rosen Plaza, our talented chefs and culinary team have put together a Thanksgiving buffet menu that honors traditional dishes and introduces exciting new flavors to the holiday spread.

Here’s a preview of what you can expect from the 2025 Thanksgiving Buffet at Rosen Plaza.

 

Our Thanksgiving buffet is a beautiful array of sides, salads, entrees, and desserts.

 

Key Takeaways

Delicious Appetizers, Soups, and Salads

Begin your meal with a warm, hearty soup that’s as comforting as it is tasty. This year, we’ll be serving a rustic yet refined roasted butternut squash soup with garlic kale, as well as a creamy Minnesota wild rice soup packed with flavorful and nutritious veggies.

Help yourself to salads that exude fall, like a blissful Thanksgiving stuffing salad filled with heartwarming holiday flavors or a savory German potato salad loaded with tender potatoes and chunky cuts of bacon. A zesty, flavor-packed Mediterranean farro salad is a unique addition to a Thanksgiving feast.

If you prefer to start your Thanksgiving dinner grazing and nibbling, you’ll love our delicious (and visually stunning) spread of fresh fruit, impressive domestic and international cheeses, a colorful antipasto display, and our signature fluffy dinner rolls.

 

Our Thanksgiving buffet is a beautiful array of sides, salads, entrees, and desserts.

 

Signature Entrees and Unforgettable Sides

This year, expand your horizon beyond turkey and indulge in one of Rosen Plaza’s innovative entrees. Try a tender grilled salmon with a sweet maple glaze and crispy fried leeks for an entree bursting with flavor. Our juicy cabernet steak tips will have you wondering how poultry ever was designated king of the Thanksgiving table.

Still, we know it wouldn’t feel like Thanksgiving without turkey, so our chefs have reimagined the dull, dry birds of yesteryear. Instead, you’ll be able to enjoy juicy sliced turkey thighs topped with a rich roasted shallot gravy, or a pumpkin seed pesto-crusted turkey breast with an oniony soubise sauce from our carving station.

Pair your entrees with traditional Thanksgiving sides like a delicious soft pretzel Thanksgiving stuffing, creamy brown butter mashed potatoes, and an orange-dijon haricot vert with crunches of crispy shallots.

 

Special Stations

The deliciousness doesn’t stop with entrees and sides.

Our Thanksgiving buffet will also include a Seafood Station serving up specialties like New Zealand mussels and oysters, fresh peel-and-eat shrimp, and a variety of homemade cocktail and remoulade sauces for an extra pop of flavor.

Pasta lovers will want to visit our make-your-own-pasta station for a customizable pasta dish worthy of a Thanksgiving table. Choose from curly cavatappi, pillowy gnocchi, or tasty cheese tortellini and top it with a smooth marinara, creamy alfredo, or zesty vodka sauce.

Then, mix in your favorite pasta toppings to take your dish to the next level. Condiments like onions, mushrooms, green peas, spinach, shrimp, pancetta, and chicken, which you can add to your dish, add deeper layers of taste and personalization.

Kids with picky palates will appreciate our kid’s buffet, which will be fully stocked with favorites like peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, chicken tenders, smiley potato fries, and mac & cheese.

 

Divine Desserts

 

The dessert table at our Thanksgiving buffet features an incredible assortment of cakes, pies, pastries, and other sweet treats.

 

It wouldn’t feel like Thanksgiving without a variety of classic desserts; luckily, you’ll find them all at the Rosen Plaza Thanksgiving buffet.

We’ll have scrumptious pumpkin, pecan, and apple pies that embody the harvest flavors of fall. Try them topped with some soft serve ice cream for pie a la mode.

There will also be decadent chocolate cake, a creamy white chocolate-cranberry cheesecake, and a smooth goat cheese cheesecake with a spiced wafter crust for a more unconventional approach to Thanksgiving dessert.

Finish your meal with a cup of hot coffee or tea as you digest and take a moment to reflect on what you’re grateful for this year.

 

Thanksgiving Buffet Pricing

Our award-winning chefs have curated a menu with something for everyone. The Thanksgiving buffet costs $64.95 for adults and $29.95 for children ages 4-11. Kids 3 and under eat free, and free self-parking is available.

 

Eat and Sleep at Rosen Plaza This Thanksgiving

There’s nothing like a cozy, comfortable bed at the end of a long day of feasting and merriment.

At Rosen Plaza, you’ll be able to dine to your heart’s content and still have time left in the day for a dip in the hot tub (or an early bedtime).

Celebrate Thanksgiving in style at Rosen Plaza and take advantage of our contemporary amenities at prices that will leave you feeling grateful.

 

Rosen Plaza’s Thanksgiving buffet is the perfect feast for your 2024 holiday. 

 

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The Best Pizza in Orlando

By John Nassivera

The first evening of your Orlando vacation arrives, and your appetite is calling for an Italian dinner. After going over all the options for your favorite meals, pizza is declared the winner.

Rest assured that Orlando is anything but short on options for pizza. There’s nothing like a juicy and saucy slice to charge up after a long day of theme park adventures.

Pizza with multiple toppings.

No matter what type of slice you’re craving or what types of toppings boost the flavors, O-Town has what you need to hit the spot.

Here is where you need to go for the best pizza in Orlando.

Key Takeaways

Mister 01 Extraordinary Pizza – Dr. Phillips

Thin-crust lovers dive into paradise at Mister 01 Extraordinary Pizza – Dr. Phillips. Fresh ingredients imported from Italy bring the heart of the motherland to the senses.

The exquisite antipasti and salads are just the right starters to prepare your gang for the traditional Italian pies to come. From Claudio and Star Carlos pies to Marco and Vittoria, a meal at Mister 01 is all about Italian authenticity.

For the pizza lovers who are looking for a more familiar dining experience, there’s always the reliable pepperoni and meat lovers’ slices.

Complete a night out with that special someone with a smooth glass of wine for an Orlando dinner that offers an enchanting culinary trip to Italy.

Thin crust pizzas.

Pizza Xtreme

Pizza Xtreme Mickey Mouse pizza.

The ultimate test of your love for pizza awaits at Pizza Xtreme in the form of the 28-inch Xtreme Challenge. If you manage to eat an entire 28-inch pizza within one hour, not only will your pizza be free, but you will cement your legacy with a picture on the wall of fame!

For those looking for a more casual dining experience, start the meal off with some bread sticks, garlic bread, and buffalo wings with a variety of dipping sauces to choose from. Salads are the way to go for those who want to start off light.

Bring your dream pizza to life by creating your own pie with a hefty list of toppings. Meat lovers can drown their pies with Italian sausage, bacon, and even hard-boiled eggs, while guests who prefer vegetables and fruits can add green peppers, fresh mushrooms, and fresh pineapples to their slices.

Is your appetite in the mood for Pizza Xtreme’s signature pies? There are always the meaty portions of The Carnivore, the scrumptious pyramid of The Whole 9 Yards, the Italian greatness of Xtreme Pepperoni, and the flavorsome healthfulness of Xtreme Veggie.

Flippers Pizza O-Town West

Fans of brick oven pizza can introduce friends and family to this variety at Flippers Pizza in O-Town West. A day spent at Orlando’s unique events and high-speed attractions is best followed by an evening of this restaurant’s handcrafted pizza goodness.

Broccoli Bianca and Mediterranean Chicken pies perfectly balance health with Italian grub. The Honey Badger and All Meat Pie bring saucy satisfaction to those who want to go all in on Pizza Night.

There’s always the option to build your own pie if you’re in the mood for a particular pizza escapade. Pies reach up to 16 inches, leaving plenty of room for creativity.

Make enough room for dessert to satisfy that sweet tooth with sugary wonders such as the Bacon Honey Buns, Marshmallow Treat, and Salted Caramel Cookie. From local craft beer to red or white wine, Flippers Pizza’s beverages bring the meal to a relaxing conclusion.

Brick oven pizzas.

Pie-Fection

Are you curious about the competition for traditional Italian pizza? Look no further than Pie-Fection, where Portugues, Cuban, Greek, and Hawaiian pies take your taste buds on a global journey of culinary greatness.

Prepare for this delectable voyage with appetizers such as mozzarella sticks, carpaccio, and calabresa with onions. Pie-Fection’s calzones come in all shapes and sizes to make your Pizza Night one to remember.

There’s nothing like a slice of Sicilian, Mobster, Margherita, or Garlic and Olive Oil pizza to soothe the soul with the deliciousness of Italy. Veggie lovers sink into nirvana with Bono and Primavera pies.

The signature Pie-Fection pizza puts the greatness of steak, vinaigrette, Catupiry®, and oregano onto one pie. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn pizza into dessert, the Sweet Pizzas of Smores, Romeo and Juliet, Nutella, and John and Julie will have you looking at pizza a whole new, tasty way.

Portuguese pizza.

Blaze Fast Fire’d Pizza

A day of shopping and entertainment at Disney Springs brings about a hunger that sometimes only pizza can quell. Enter Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza, a paradise for fans of artisanal pies with simple ingredients.

Whether you stop by for lunch or dinner, Blaze’s signature pizzas are the refreshment you need for the rest of the day’s fun. Meat lovers can chow down on the Meat Eater while veggie lovers can enjoy a healthy pig-out with the Veg Out.

Challenge your tolerance for spicy pizza with the jalapenos, banana peppers, and spicy red sauce of Hot Link. The elegance of Italy calls with a helping slice of Red Vine.

The option to build your own pizza lets you and the fam show off your culinary creativity. A soothing bite of Blaze’s pizza goes perfectly with a view of Disney Springs fireworks to cap off the night.

Vegetable pizza.

Red Oven Pizza Bakery

Within the heart-pounding action of Universal Orlando Resort’s rides awaits a saucy refuel at Universal CityWalk’s Red Oven Pizza Bakery. Start with a light warm up through the Arugula, Caprese, and Classic Ceasar salads before taking your taste buds on a new rollercoaster.

Italian Meat is bliss for those with a carnivore’s appetite, and Stagione blends the flavors of ground beef, caramelized onions, and garlic aioli into one bite. For authentic Italian cravings, Spinaci and Margherita leave guests wanting more.

Red Oven’s Pizza Bianca options have something for everyone, including vegetarians with the savory Bianca and Pesto pies. The Roasted Chicken pie is packed with delectable protein, and the Prosciutto & Arugula pie brings a taste of Italy to your Orlando getaway.

End the meal with fresh baked chocolate chip cookies paired with refreshing draft beers or refined red and white wine. With the evening ending revitalized, anticipation builds for another day of Universal’s adventures.

Margherita pizza.

Lazy Moon Pizza

The more the merrier, and that goes especially for the enormous pies of Lazy Moon Pizza. Pies spanning from 20 inches to 30 inches are a delicious challenge best shared with friends and family.

Meat and veggie lovers can throw their favorite toppings onto pies to bring the best of both worlds together. Artichokes, bell peppers, pickled pink onions, and sauteed mushrooms team up with BBQ baked chicken, birria beef, ham, and mojo pork for a healthy and hefty evening of pizza.

The Lazy Faves bring variety to your dining experience, from the sauciness of the Jason’s Mom’s Slice to the vegan haven of the Uptown Slice. Protein stacks along the Meaty McMeatface Slice, while the Down Home Slice brings BBQ goodness to your pie.

You can’t go wrong with dipping sauce for pizza, and Lazy Moon is anything but short on options. From blue cheese and Jason’s Mom to marinara and Lazy Homemade Hot Honey, every bite is a parade of flavor.

Pizza with multiple toppings.

Nuri’s Tavern

Nuri's Tavern pizza.

While a good ol’ plain slice of pizza can be a delightful pick-me-up, the right toppings hit the spot on another level. Lunch and dinner at Nuri’s Tavern treats you to a feast of toppings featuring your favorites and new ones to add to your top-tier list.

Sweet sausage, meatballs, and pecorino come together for a satisfying helping of the Red Base menu’s Meat X3. Double Pepp is a pepperoni fan’s dream, and Vodka pies treat the senses to Italian flair.

Prepare for the sauciness of Pepperoni & Jalapeno slices with a stack of napkins for the gang. If you’re in the mood for the White Base menu, the Classic, Mushroom, Broccoli, and Sausage pies are here for a filling evening.

The stimulating taste of Nuri’s Tavern’s pizza is matched only by the restaurant’s decorous cocktails, such as Iced Espresso Martini, Old Man Fashion, Sangria, and Pineapple Margarita. Red, white, and rose wines also quench the thirst brought to life by heated and savory slices.

Grab A Slice After Some Orlando Fun

What day doesn’t get a boost with some pizza, especially a day spent at the iconic attractions of Orlando?

Pizza lovers can rest assured that there is a unique haven of Italian cuisine around every corner of O-Town. No matter what type or size of pie you’re looking for, we’ve got the goods.

Stack your pies with meats and veggies for a meal that balances flavor and nutrition. The right starters, beverages, and desserts bring the occasion full circle for your appetite.

If you’re staying at Rosen Plaza and can’t wait to get your hands on a slice, there’s always Rosen’s Perfect Pizza. Place your order, and our appetizing, handcrafted, wheat crust pizza arrives at your doorstep while you stay at any Rosen hotel.

Book your next vacation with Rosen Plaza today and plan your pizza expedition with Orlando’s best.

People eating pizza together.
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7 Unique Trick-or-Treating Ideas in Orlando

Updated August 6, 2025 by Kate Cohen

 

Halloween wouldn’t be Halloween without trick-or-treating.

This sugar-filled rite of passage is the highlight of many children’s holidays.

 

A group of children run along a sidewalk while trick-or-treating.

 

Here in Orlando, we love both Halloween and trick-or-treating. That means you can find a variety of festive spots and events for collecting candy and showing off your costume.

Here are seven unique trick-or-treating events in Orlando you can look forward to in 2025.

 

Key Takeaways

 

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

 

A woman in a costume stands over a round tub of candy, handing some to a family dressed in Peter Pan costumes.

 

One of the most popular trick-or-treating events (albeit the most expensive) is Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom.

This separately ticketed after-hours event features plenty of festive, spooky fun, including Mickey’s Boo to You Parade, the Not-So-Spooky Spectacular fireworks show, and so much more.

Interact with some of your favorite Disney characters dressed in their Halloween finest, including some rarely spotted friends like Jack Skellington and Sally from The Nightmare Before Christmas.

Kids and grown-ups alike get to participate in trick-or-treating at stations throughout the park, collecting ample amounts of candy. There are even allergy-friendly options for those with dietary restrictions.

Halloween night is sold out, but you can still enjoy trick or treating and other festivities on select dates from Aug. 15 through Oct. 30, 2025.

Ticket prices range from $109 – $219 for kids ages 3 to 9, and $119 – $229 for anyone 10 and older.

 

Brick-or-Treat at LEGOLAND Florida

About an hour drive from Orlando is LEGOLAND Florida, every brick-builder’s dream destination.

Every Halloween, they throw their Brick-or-Treat party for guests to enjoy.

On select dates from Sept. 20 – Nov. 2, LEGOLAND Florida comes alive with exclusive Halloween LEGO characters, festive dance parties and performances, and special holiday menu items.

On a Brick-or-Treat event day, you can pick up a candy bag and make your way to a variety of stations handing out monstrous mounds of sweets and treats.

Allergy and sensory friendly treat bags are also available.

Brick-or-Treat is included in the cost of admission to LEGOLAND Florida, so be sure to plan your visit on an event day.

 

SeaWorld Orlando’s Spooktacular

 

A boy and a girl in simplistic costumes kneel in the grass beside pumpkins decorated as fish.

 

The final theme park trick or treating experience on our list is SeaWorld Orlando’s Spooktacular.

The event is a kid-friendly Halloween celebration complete with a harvest maze, bubble dance party, mermaid meet-and-greets, Halloween crafts, and so much more.

Purchase a reusable candy bag (last year’s price was $3.99 per bag) to take advantage of the trick or treat trail, where guests of all ages can collect an assortment of candy.

Have a little one who loves Sesame Street? Make your way to Sesame Street Land for a special Halloween parade featuring all your favorite characters.

Spooktacular occurs on select dates from Aug. 30 – Nov. 2, 2025, and is included in the cost of a SeaWorld Orlando admission ticket.

Be sure not to confuse Spooktacular with SeaWorld Orlando’s separate – and much scarier – haunted house event, Howl-O-Scream.

 

Spooktacular at Avalon Park

Another Spooktacular Halloween event takes place in the charming East Orlando community of Avalon Park.

This year’s event will be held on Saturday, Oct. 25 from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m., a few days shy of Halloween.

Here, you’ll find a variety of family-friendly attractions including bounce houses, live performances, local vendors, and food trucks.

Come dressed in costume for a free trick-or-treating experience the whole family will love.

 

Halloween at Cranes Roost Park

 

A treat box of candy sits on a table beside a pumpkin and a candy bucket surrounded by orange and black streamers.

 

Cranes Roost Park in Altamonte Springs is known for their fabulous community events. Halloween is no exception.

Every year, their Halloween at Cranes Roost celebration hosts over 15,000 kids who come to trick or treat from booths sponsored by local businesses.

Live entertainment, costume contests, games, and other activities await families who attend.

In 2025, the event will be held on Oct. 31 from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. Admission is free, and food and beverages are available for purchase.

 

Downtown Winter Garden’s Annual Halloween Trick-or-Treat

Winter Garden is a beautiful historic neighborhood in Orlando with a charming downtown area full of shops, restaurants, and boutiques.

In late October, they host their annual Halloween Experience, a free 10-day celebration with attractions like a spooky hay maze, seasonal decorations, and fall-themed photo spots.

On Oct. 31, visitors can enjoy additional live entertainment including a Halloween light show projected onto City Hall, street performers, and more.

Arrive early with your bags and buckets to enjoy a trick or treating event for kids from 3 p.m. – 5 p.m. hosted by participating downtown merchants.

 

Lake Nona Graveyard Smash

 

A girl in white pretends to walk like a zombie in red lighting against a black backdrop.

 

The Lake Nona Graveyard Smash is an exciting community Halloween event typically held the Saturday before Halloween.

Roam through Lake Nona Town Center alongside character performers, have your face painted, and enjoy Halloween-themed entertainment.

Kids can trick or treat at interactive stations, collecting candy while getting into the spooky spirit.

Be sure to check out Lake Nona Town Center restaurants for fun themed beverages and treats available for purchase to be enjoyed throughout the event.

The official date for Lake Nona Graveyard Smash 2025 is TBD.

 

All Treats, No Tricks at Rosen Plaza this Halloween Season

 

A pool and skybridge glow pink beneath a stunning sunset sky.

 

Sweeten your Orlando vacation with a stay at Rosen Plaza this year.

When you’re not out collecting candy, you could be lounging by our beautiful pool, savoring a steak dinner at Jack’s Place, or enjoying any of the nearby International Drive attractions.

You’ll appreciate our comfortable accommodations, friendly hospitality, and convenient location.

Book your Halloween stay with us today.

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Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights 34

Updated July 31, 2025

 

Terrifying screams will engulf Universal Studios as the park celebrates its thirty-fourth frightful year of Halloween Horror Nights.

Fearless guests can find thrills at 10 new haunted houses, multiple scare zones, and exclusive shows.

 

Silhouettes of people walking out from a brightly lit red entrance with a glowing sign reading Halloween Horror Nights.

 

HHN 34 will run on select nights from August 29 to November 2, 2025. Here’s a look at some of the attractions that await you at HHN this year.

 

Key Takeaways

 

2025 Halloween Horror Nights Haunted Houses

 

A man and woman cling to each other screaming in a dark hallway as they pass a spooky glowing figure.

 

Each year, Universal Orlando designs terrifying and elaborate haunted houses based on popular horror franchises.

In 2024, haunted house themes were inspired by movies like A Quiet Place, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, and Insidious: The Further.

Universal likes to take their time and build anticipation in announcing upcoming haunted houses, so you can look forward to learning more about this year’s event in the weeks to come.

Here are the terrors we already know HHN has in store for you in 2025:

  • Jason Universe explores the origin story of one of horror’s most iconic villains: Jason Voorhees. You’ll wander through the summer camp where it all began as you try to escape the gruesome wrath of Jason, face-to-face.
  • Based on the popular show and game franchise, Fallout is an immersive encounter of ruthless bounty hunters and raiders in a haunting post-apocalyptic Los Angeles.
  • Terrifier is a grisly haunted house based on Damien Leone’s “Terrifier” films. Sadistic Art the Clown will be chasing you down in his twisted funhouse, a gory and grotesque collection of his handiwork of torture.
  • During Five Nights at Freddy’s, you’re on the night watch at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizzeria, where deadly animatronics are hunting you through creepy, abandoned hallways. Will you last five nights, let alone one?
  • Go head-to-head with the fiendish Wyatt Sicks in The Horrors of the Wyatt Sicks haunted house. In this eerie arena, you’ll meet your match against a number of ominous, maniacal characters.
  • Immerse yourself in the world of a tortured artist in El Artista: A Spanish Hunting. Wander haunted hallways as you try to escape an isolated country manor possessed by demonic art.
  • In Hatchet and Chains: Demon Bounty Hunters, you’ll venture to an Old West town where throngs of red-hot lava demons are emerging from Hell’s Well. Can Hatchet and Chains contain the invasion with their arsenal of mystical weapons?
  • Brave guests will shrink down to doll-size in Dolls: Let’s Play Dead, where you’ll face the unnatural creations of a twisted girl. Undead horrors and creepy creations are stalking you as you make your way to her haunted Victorian dollhouse.
  • Enter your own grave in Grave of Flesh and pass through the gates of the underworld. There, you’ll be greeted by flesh-eating monsters welcoming you to an eternity of being hunted.

  • Gálkn: Monsters of the North is a chilling tale from a remote northern village where an icy, wicked being is preying on the town with wolfish, winged, and horned beasts by its side.

Stay tuned to learn more about what breathtaking and spine-tingling haunted houses you can expect at HNN 2025.

 

The Fear Doesn’t Stop There

 

A man and two women scream and cling to each other on a dark street as spooky figures come out of the shadows.

 

If you thought you could walk from one haunted house to the next in peace, you are terribly mistaken.

During Halloween Horror Nights 34, you’ll find sinister scare zones scattered around Universal Studios.

Scare actors roam through the foggy streets, ready to spook guests.

In 2025, you can look forward to scare zones like The Origins of Horror, the vampire-inspired Masquerade: Dance with Death, The Cat Lady of Crooked Lane, Mutations: Toxic Twenties, and more.

 

Other Fun Halloween Horror Nights 34 Activities

 

A glowing purple zombie figure surrounded by dark, spooky shadows and figures.

 

When you want a break from screaming, you can rest your voice (and your feet) as you enjoy some eerie entertainment at two live shows.

This year’s lineup includes Nightmare Fuel: Circus of Decay and Haunt-O-Phonic: A Ghoulish Journey.

These performances are full of sinfully spectacular special effects and feats of bravery that will leave you breathless.

While you’re in the park for Halloween Horror Nights 34, you can also experience exhilarating Universal Studios rides and attractions at night.

Select rides will be open for guests to enjoy, including Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts and Revenge of the Mummy.

It’s a great time to ride your favorite coasters and explore the park, since lines are typically a little shorter while other guests are focused on HHN.

If all the thrills and chills have caused you to work up an appetite, check out some of the exclusive food and drinks available to guests during the event.

Designed to spook and satisfy, these indulgences are perfect for enhancing your night exploring haunted houses and sauntering through scare zones.

 

End Your Night at a Comfortable Orlando Hotel

 

The exterior of Rosen Plaza at night with a glowing pink fountain and the tower lit in blue.

 

After a terrifying night at Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights 34, escape to a peaceful hotel room at Rosen Plaza.

Located on International Drive, Rosen Plaza provides affordable luxury and great amenities, all within a few minutes’ drive of your favorite Orlando entertainment.

The hotel is conveniently close to Universal Orlando and some of the area’s top restaurants, bars, and attractions.

Rosen Plaza also offers guests complimentary shuttle transportation to Universal Orlando theme parks, including the brand-new Universal’s Epic Universe.

Rest your head knowing you’ve escaped the monsters and ghouls of HHN 34…

…at least for now.

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Vegetarian Dining at Jack’s Place

By Yasmene Warren

Updated July 21, 2025 by Abigail Bass

Rosen Plaza appreciates all its guests and works toward providing amenities that are accessible for everyone. Vegetarians, this one’s for you: Vegetarian-friendly dining options are available for the taking at Jack’s Place. Just in time for Vegetarian Awareness Month in October, here’s what’s on the menu.

Key Takeaways

The Vegetarian Filet

A steakhouse might be the last place a vegetarian would expect to find diet-friendly dining options — especially not from International Drive’s best steakhouse, Jack’s Place.

An eye-level view of Jack's Place restaurant at Rosen Plaza in Orlando, a vegetarian-friendly outing.

You might be surprised to find on our menu the “Vegetarian Filet,” and it’s impossibly delicious.

The Vegetarian Filet is made with plant-based Impossible filet and served with market vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, and a bold chimichurri sauce. 

Impossible Foods is a company that makes completely plant-based meat substitutions. It makes foods such as steaks, nuggets, burger patties, and more.

Over the past few years, the company has been partnering with a variety of restaurants to help them offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dining options at their establishments — with Jack’s Place being one of them.

Other Vegetarian-Friendly Dishes at Jack’s Place

If you’re not into eating anything that even remotely resembles meat, then rest assured, there’s still something for you at Jack’s Place.

More than just a bowl of greens, Jack’s Place offers an enticing heirloom tomato and burrata salad with a tasty balsamic reduction glazed over it.

When you’re in the mood for something with just a little more zing, you’ll definitely want to try the poached pear and gorgonzola salad. It’s made with frisée, arugula, endive, gorgonzola cheese, dried cherries, candied pecans, and sangria vinaigrette.

For sides, you can order delectable market vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, Jack’s au gratin potatoes, lime scented jasmine rice, asparagus with hollandaise sauce, and sautéed spinach with garlic. 

Even vegetarians have a sweet tooth, and luckily, Jack’s Place has a variety of sugary fixes for you on its dessert menu.

A plate of Jack's Place Key Lime Pie.

Get Junior’s “Famous” New York Cheesecake and top it off with some whipped cream and fresh berries. For a decadent finish, there’s also a flourless chocolate torte made from the finest Belgian chocolate.

Our classic crème brûlée comes with creamy custard and a torched caramel crust. During your visit, be sure to ask your server for the chef’s flavor of the day as it changes daily.

You can also try the award-winning Jack’s Key Lime Pie — a recipe stemming from Florida’s dessert staple.

Also ever changing is Jack’s flavored sorbet, so if you love surprises, be sure to ask your server for the daily flavor during each visit.

About Vegetarian Awareness Month

A plate of Jack's Place Wedge Salad.

Vegetarian Awareness Month stems from World Vegetarian Day. It was established by the North American Vegetarian Society in 1977 and is now celebrated annually around the world on Oct. 1.

The holiday was endorsed by the International Vegetarian Union in 1978 as a means to promote the benefits of a vegetarian diet and lifestyle.

Make your vegetarian loved one’s day by thinking of them and treating them to a delicious vegetarian-friendly dinner at Jack’s Place.

Spend the Night at Rosen Plaza

A gorgeous sunset in front of Rosen Plaza in Orlando.

After a long night spent devouring a delicious, vegetarian-friendly dinner at Jack’s Place, comfort awaits you at Rosen Plaza. Booking your stay with us gives you the easiest access to fine dining at Jack’s Place, as well as a variety of other tasty restaurants and grills. So once you’re done celebrating your favorite vegetarian, end the night with us at Rosen Plaza – because plant-based joy deserves a grand finale treat.

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Magical Dining at Jack’s Place 2025

By Kate Cohen
Updated August 19, 2025 by Abigail Bass

 

Located inside Rosen Plaza is a stylish establishment known for its unique decor and a menu full of phenomenal steaks and steakhouse classics: Jack’s Place restaurant on International Drive. Whether you’ve never been or are craving a return visit, now is the perfect time to plan your next reservation.

 

 

 

Starting August 15, 2025, you can join us for a three-course prix-fixe menu with the Magical Dining event. Here’s a look at what you can expect to find waiting for you at Jack’s Place.

 

Key Takeaways

Appetizers

For your first course of the Magical Dining menu, you’ll get to choose from three delicious appetizers. The Chilled West Indies Salad features a collective mix of flavors taking you to Caribbean paradise. A bright blend of crab meat meets freshly diced onions and a zesty cider vinegar marinade that brings seaside vibrance to every bite.  

The Manhattan Clam Chowder is rich and hearty, a true treat to kick off your meal. A smooth, tomato-based broth blends together with soft and tender clams, velvety potatoes, and crisp celery in this succulent starter.  

To start your meal with something green, opt for the Baby Spinach salad. Fresh baby spinach is delicately drizzled with an elegant balsamic vinaigrette dressing. A nutrient-packed blend of sliced mushrooms, hard-boiled eggs, and red onions are the perfect finishing touches to this well-balanced app.

Entrees

Once your appetite has been whetted with a delicious appetizer, you can move onto the main course: entrees. When it comes to perfectly prepared meat, chicken, and seafood, Jack’s Place always delivers.

This time, you’ll have your choice of four fantastic entrees. The Grilled Swordfish is prepared tender and flaky, allowing the subtle flavors of the fish to shine through. That’s where the subtlety of flavors ends. The swordfish is topped with a vibrant mango, pineapple, red onion, and cilantro salsa sure to add plenty of tropical vibes to your evening.

Jack’s Rotisserie Half Chicken is a Magical Dining specialty that’s as comforting as it is indulgent. Tender rotisserie chicken is topped with shaved prosciutto and melted Asiago cheese all smothered in a silky Sauvignon cream sauce. A side of creamy garlic mashed potatoes is the perfect vessel for soaking up every last morsel of this flavorful favorite.

For a vegetarian dinner option, indulge in the flavors of the Mediterranean with the Pesto Pasta. Fresh pasta is tossed in a fragrant basil pesto sauce and mixed with roasted cherry tomatoes and earthy green spinach. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese completes this colorfully delicious main course.

The filet mignon at Jack's Place is divine.

And of course, it wouldn’t be dinner at Jack’s Place without the option to treat yourself to a perfectly cooked Filet Mignon. This premier cut of steak is melt-in-your mouth tender. Cleanse your palate between bites with the rich and creamy signature Jack’s Au Gratin Potatoes and fresh seasonal vegetables.  

If you’re tempted to dive into a true surf-and-turf experience, you can upgrade your filet with optional enhancements like succulent pan-seared scallops or a juicy broiled lobster tail. 

Desserts

Hopefully you’ve saved plenty of room for dessert, because you won’t want to miss the delectable offerings at Jack’s Place.

The Chocolate Mousse is melt-in-your-mouth magic in every bite. Made with light and airy chocolate mousse sprinkled with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, it’s the perfect dessert for any self-proclaimed chocoholic.

A slice of award-winning key lime pie at Jack's Place in Orlando.

This is also a great opportunity to try the award-winning Key Lime Pie at Jack’s Place. This Floridian favorite has the perfect balance of sweet and tart with a crumbly, buttery crust that complements the pie’s delectably creamy filling.  

The Daily Gelato Selection is a sweetly satisfying way to cleanse your palate after a delectable meal. Ask your server about the flavor of the day.

With Magical Dining, Every Bite Helps Support a Local Nonprofit

Every year, Magical Dining selects an Orlando nonprofit to support with proceeds from the event. By choosing a Magical Dining experience this fall, you’ll be supporting a wonderful local charity while still enjoying an incredible meal at a participating restaurant like Jack’s Place.

A Restaurant with a Lot of Character(s)

There are great steakhouses, and then there are great steakhouses with personality. Jack’s Place in Rosen Plaza is an incredible upscale casual steakhouse with a fantastic story – and the decor to prove it!  

The restaurant is a fond love letter to Rosen Hotels & Resorts founder and COO Harris Rosen’s father, Jack. Jack Rosen worked as a safety engineer at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City in the 1930s, where he met countless celebrities staying at the hotel. He began to sketch caricatures of the famous guests, and eventually became the Waldorf Astoria’s resident caricature artist.  

Jack Rosen is credited with creating more than 100,000 caricatures in his lifetime. A special selection of his work, including images of guests such as Queen Elizabeth II, Alfred Hitchcock, and Neil Armstrong, proudly hang on the walls of Jack’s Place. 

Whether you’re dining with family, colleagues, friends, or someone special, there’s something everyone will love on the Jack’s Place Magical Dining menu. Don’t wait to make your reservation on OpenTable or by calling (407) 996-1787.

 

 

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6 Tips for Navigating Orlando International Airport

Updated July 7, 2025

 

So, you’ve done your research and found a cheap flight to Orlando International Airport (MCO). All that’s left to do is show up at your local airport, have a fun vacation, and fly home…right?

Well, almost.

 

A woman pulling a black suitcase walks away from the camera at an airport.

 

MCO is a sprawling airport. It’s the busiest in Florida and the ninth busiest in the United States.

The hustle and bustle can disorient and exhaust arriving and departing flyers alike. Before getting to the airport, it’s important to have a game plan.

Here are six tips for getting through Orlando International Airport like a pro.

 

Key Takeaways

 

1. Download the MCO App

 

A woman looks out the window on an airplane holding her phone in her hand.

 

Not only is MCO crowded — it’s also massive. At 21 square miles, it’s the third largest airport in the country — big enough to make you wish you had a map in your pocket.

Luckily, there’s an app for that!

In addition to helping you get around the airport, the MCO app provides estimated security line wait times and updates on your flight.

Keep track of parking availability and find precisely where you left your car to save time driving and wandering around the parking lots.

You’ll also find information on shopping, dining, and ground transportation options.

The app is free and available to both Android and iPhone users.

 

2. Arrive Early

 

The silhouettes of two children at an airport gate against a large window.

 

In 2024, MCO served over 57 million travelers. 2025 is expected to surpass that record-setting number.

That’s a lot of people, and many are young flyers still learning the ins and outs of air travel. As a result, getting through security can take longer than other airports.

The general rule of thumb is to arrive at the airport 2 hours before a domestic flight’s departure time.

MCO officials, however, recommend getting to the Orlando airport 3 hours in advance. Doing so will ensure you have ample time to check any bags, get through security, and find your gate.

 

3. Know Your Terminal and Gate

 

The silhouette of a man with his hand on his suitcase standing in front of a large airport window.

 

With the opening of Terminal C in 2022, MCO now has three terminals split between two buildings.

Each terminal is accessible only via one of the airport’s Automatic People Movers (APMs). If you board the wrong APM, you’ll spend precious time backtracking.

And depending on where you end up, you may need to go through security again to get where you’re headed.

The moment you arrive at the airport, verify your terminal and gate information on the airport display system. Then use the MCO app to find the right place.

Driving to the airport and flying from Terminal C? Be sure to park in a Terminal C parking lot for extra convenience.

 

4. Pack Souvenirs Wisely

 

An open light blue suitcase with documents lying beside it on a carpet.

 

Many travelers view their Orlando vacation as a chance to shop ‘til they drop.

As you pack your sweet souvenirs, remember some items need to go in checked luggage.

One of the TSA’s best-known rules is the 3-1-1 rule, which states that you can bring a single 1 qt. bag of liquid goods on the plane with you. Each item in it needs to be 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less.

Of course, 3-1-1 applies to things like perfumes, wine, and bottled water.

Gels such as fruit preserves or some deodorants also fall under the rule.

Other liquids may not be so obvious.

For instance, your standard magic eight ball holds 3.5 oz. of liquid and will need to go in a checked bag. Glowsticks you picked up at the parks will count toward the 3-1-1 rule. And any snow globes in your carry-on will need to be 3.4 oz. (about the size of a tennis ball) or smaller.

When packing up your new finds, also consider the following:

Inflated balloons are not allowed on airplanes.

However, you can stop by the Disney Store in the main terminal before security and ask them to deflate your Mickey balloon before boarding. When you arrive at your destination, have your local party supply store refill it.

Many toy weapons, like foam swords and Nerf guns, need to go in a checked bag. However, Harry Potter wands and Star Wars lightsabers are allowed in your carry-on.

Wait until you get home before wrapping any presents you bought in Orlando. Otherwise, you may find a hardworking TSA agent undoing your hard work.

Another option is to wait and buy your souvenirs at the airport. Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld each have shops in all three terminals at MCO.

 

5. Skip the Security Line

 

An overhead shot of a brown travel bag on the ground with an out of focus blue passport in a hand in the foreground.

 

With so many awesome stores and restaurants in Orlando International Airport, you’ll want to minimize your time in the security line and maximize your time in your terminal.

Luckily, MCO offers a few options to get you shopping and snacking in no time.

 

TSA PreCheck

TSA PreCheck lets qualifying flyers zip through security, usually in 5 minutes or less. And all without having to take out your 3-1-1 bag or laptop and remove your shoes, belt, and jacket.

This members-only program is open to U.S. citizens and nationals and lawful permanent residents.

To join, you’ll need to visit an application center close to home. The application costs $78 and entails a short form, background check, and fingerprinting.

Most applications are approved in 3-5 days, at which you’ll receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN). When booking flights with a participating airline, provide your KTN when prompted.

Your TSA PreCheck membership lasts five years, at which you’ll fill out a new application and pay a $70 renewal fee.

Citizens of the United Kingdom, Mexico, Brazil, and 11 other countries may qualify for Global Entry, a program granting you the same benefits as TSA PreCheck.

 

CLEAR Plus

In 2010, Orlando International Airport became the first to adopt CLEAR Plus, a biometric program that gets you to the front of the security line.

CLEAR Plus memberships cost $199 per year, but some flyers may qualify for a discount.

You can register online or at a participating airport. When you get to airport security, approach a CLEAR kiosk and scan your boarding pass, then your fingerprints or irises.

You’ll be escorted to the front of the line and then complete the security screening as usual.

 

RESERVE by CLEAR

While TSA PreCheck or CLEAR Plus can be a worthwhile investment for frequent flyers, those who rarely fly may not be able to justify the cost.

Luckily, Orlando International Airport is one of seven American airports that have adopted Reserve by CLEAR.

This free program allows you to reserve a specific time to go through a CLEAR-only security lane.

You can choose your appointment time up to 72 hours before your flight, and one person can make a reservation for up to 10 people. Once at MCO, your group can enter the CLEAR lane up to 20 minutes before or after your chosen time.

 

6. Bring Your Appetite

Eating at the airport can save you time and gives you something to do if you make it to your terminal early.

MCO has some great dining options that reflect the culinary diversity and quality of the city at large.

Terminal A features familiar favorites like Chick-fil-A, McDonald’s, and Chipotle for grab-and-go-meals.

It’s also home to specialty restaurants like Cask & Larder, a brewpub owned by culinary power couple James and Julie Petrakis.

Camden Food Co. serves custom and pre-made salads and sandwiches in Terminal B, or enjoy casual dining options like Ruby Tuesday, Outback Steakhouse, and Bahama Breeze.

Over in Terminal C, you’ll find loads of local flavor. MCO’s newest terminal has a second Cask & Larder location, Sunshine Diner by Chef Art Smith, and other exciting options.

You’ll also find brand new restaurants representing local culinary hot spots like Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream, Maxine’s on Shine, 4Rivers, Smoke & Donuts, and more.

 

Prepare for a Comfortable Takeoff at Rosen Plaza

 

A wide shot of the exterior of Rosen Plaza at sunset. Rosen Plaza is a quick 15 minute drive from Orlando International Airport.

 

Rosen Plaza is the perfect hotel to rest up before your departure to your next destination.

Our Orlando hotel is in the heart of the city and offers amenities like a free Universal Orlando shuttle, making it easy to explore.

Take time to enjoy our onsite dining, lounge by a crystal-clear pool, and explore the best entertainment Orlando has to offer.

When your time in The City Beautiful comes to an end, you’ll be just 15 minutes away from Orlando International Airport.

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Celebrate Oktoberfest in Orlando

By Kate Cohen
July 8, 2025

 

Grab your lederhosen and your favorite beer stein – it’s time to celebrate Oktoberfest in Orlando!

This Germanic festival is a celebration of Bavarian culture, including beer, music, dancing, games, and culinary traditions.

 

The back of a crowd faces a stage, and a woman in a dirndl raises an almost empty stein of beer into the air.

 

Oktoberfest originated in Munich in the early 1800’s as a royal wedding celebration. In the 200 years that followed, its popularity led to thousands of Oktoberfest festivals popping up all over the world.

Orlando is no exception.

Don’t be fooled by the name; Oktoberfest takes place in October or September. Traditionally, it lasts two full weeks leading up to the first Sunday in October.

 

Get your fill of Bavarian culture at these festivals celebrating Oktoberfest in Orlando.

 

We will continue to add Orlando Oktoberfest events to this post as 2025 dates are released.

 

Key Takeaways

Three older men in traditional German attire play a variety of instruments.

 

Winter Parktoberfest

Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025

In 2025, Winter Parktoberfest is returning for their second annual celebration.

Held in Mead Garden, this event unites a diverse community of locals with polka musicians, authentic German food, and over 30 adorable dachshunds.

2024’s inaugural event featured food from Hollerbach’s, Orlando’s premier German restaurant, and plenty of flowing local beer and wine.

This year’s celebration promises to be even bigger and more entertaining than last year’s, so don’t miss out! Tickets are already available.

 

The German American Society of Central Florida’s Oktoberfest

Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025, noon – 9 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025, noon – 9 p.m.

The German American Society of Central Florida throws not one, but two Oktoberfest celebrations each fall.

Heralded as the “most authentic and longest running” Oktoberfest in Central Florida, the event includes plenty of German food, beer, dancing, and live music.

Oktoberfest is fun for the whole family, too. Little ones will love the Kids Korner with plenty of entertainment and activities just for them.

Tickets are required and can be purchased in advance. Stay tuned for the link once 2025 tickets are on sale.

 

A close up of a glass beer stein full of beer sitting on an outdoor table.

 

Oktoberfest in Avalon Park

Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Beer Garden Preview Friday, Oct. 10, 2025, 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Avalon Park is a charming neighborhood in East Orlando known for its seasonal celebrations.

Every year, the Oktoberfest festival draws thousands of people of all ages to the area for an evening of live polka music, Alpine dancing, food vendors, and more.

Past years have featured a special wiener dog race that always draws a crowd.

Avalon Park’s Oktoberfest celebration also includes an adults-only Beer Garden where you can enjoy a refreshing brew. Enjoy a preview of the Beer Garden the Friday before the event.

 

Krush Brau Park

2025 dates TBD

One of the best places to enjoy Oktoberfest season is Kush Brau Park in Kissimmee, a German-inspired beer garden owned by a U.S. Army veteran who was stationed overseas in Germany.

The bar/restaurant has become a vibrant multicultural destination celebrating German beer, food, music, and other cultural treasures.

Every year, Krush Brau Park hosts a variety of Oktoberfest events and specials. 2025’s schedule has not yet been released, so stay tuned to see what’s in store this fall.

 

Raise a Glass to an Oktoberfest Stay at Rosen Plaza

 

A wooden board with a large pretzel sits beside a beer and two tropical drinks with a waterfall and palm trees in the background. Stay at Rosen Plaza when you celebrate Oktoberfest.

 

Ready to celebrate Oktoberfest in style?

Enjoy an autumn stay at Rosen Plaza in the heart of Orlando’s entertainment district.

When you’re done clinking steins of beer and perfecting your polka, return to our hotel to sip something refreshing while lounging poolside. May we suggest Alligator Drool IPA, brewed just for Rosen Hotels & Resorts?

Our spacious, comfortable accommodations are perfect for hanging up your dirndl and lederhosen for a good night’s rest.

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