15 Must-Know Tips for Anyone Moving to Orlando

Moving to a new city can be an exciting time. However, learning about its ins and outs, such as the best places to eat, schools, and things to do, can take time. Having a heads up before settling in can make your transition smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some tips as you plan your move to Orlando:

1. Beware of Tourism Traffic

The fluctuating tourist seasons and the numerous theme parks cause significant traffic, especially on I-4. Because Orlando is a huge tourist city, basing your commute time on typical rush-hour traffic patterns is not possible. Fortunately, Orlando provides a variety of public transpiration options.

2. It’s More Than Just Theme Parks

There are a variety of parks to enjoy throughout Orlando that do not include a theme. For instance, locals enjoy renting swan-shaped paddle boats at Lake Eola Park. If you are a bike enthusiast, you should consider the beautiful 22-mile West Orange Trail. In fact, with over 40 neighborhood parks and 37 city parks, there is no shortage of outdoor activities to choose from in this city.

3. Restaurants

You can choose from a seemingly unending number of dining options. Orlando has got you covered whether you enjoy fine dining, local restaurants that offer unique cuisine, or international restaurants that specialize in exotic dishes.

4. Property Investment

The demand for housing has grown right along with the appeal of retiring in Orlando. Additionally, the need for vacation rentals is constant. As such, Orlando is a great place for investing in properties–primarily rental property.

5. Hurricanes

Although Florida is known for intense storms, Orlando is not. The primary reason Orlando is safer is that the city is outside of the area where hurricanes land. However, this does not mean Orlando is immune. Storms have hit the area, but such events are rare.

6. Sinkholes

Built on wetlands, Orlando is known for experiencing sinkholes. Many times, the sinkholes can fill in. However, there have been cases when other sinkholes have wreaked havoc.

7. Mosquitoes

Due to the warm temperatures, the Orlando mosquito season is just about year-round. Florida is home to approximately 80 species of mosquitoes, 13 of which are known to carry potentially dangerous diseases, including the Zika virus, West Nike virus, and encephalitis. As such, many residents have their yard and home sprayed at least once per year.

8. East or Not East?

I-4 runs horizontally from Tampa to Daytona Beach. However, Orlando is vertical, making I-4 labels within the city slightly confusing. For instance, as I-4 stretches through the metropolitan area, it runs north and south, but it is labeled east and west, respectively.

However, once you understand this, you will have no problem navigating through the city.

9. Lightning 

During June and July, Orlando enjoys intense daily thunderstorms, usually around 3 p.m. In addition to the downpours, the repeated lightning strikes are indeed something to see.

Yet, within an hour, the weather clears, and it will seem as if the storm never happened.

10. Culture

In addition to excellent food and beautiful parks, Orlando is also home to a variety of cultural opportunities. The city has its opera series, symphony, and ballet company. Additionally, there is no shortage of impressive museums. For instance, the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art is a must-see.

11. Seafood

As Florida is between waters, there are abundant opportunities to enjoy fresh seafood. Additionally, the high demand for seafood has lead to an increase in sustainable fishing practices. Notably, two restaurants in Orlando, Cress Restaurant, and The Rusty Spoon have taken the lead in sustainability by joining the Smart Catch program.

12. Heat

Depending on where you relocate from, it can take up to three weeks to become acclimated to Orlando’s heat. While that may seem like a long time, the good news is that you will become acclimated. Additionally, remaining hydrated will help make the adjustment easier.

13. Gardening

As most of Florida is on the sand, you will most likely have to forgo the garden and enjoy your favorite flowers in town. There are a few notable places in Orlando that boast beautiful displays, such as Bok Tower Gardens and Mead Botanical Garden.

14. Smile

If you are from a more reserved city, you may be startled by the incredibly friendly people living in Orlando. Do not be surprised if your neighbors wave hello or a stranger allows you to take the best parking spot.

15. Education

There are a variety of higher-education choices in and around Orlando. For instance, the second-largest university in the country, The University of Central Florida, is located in Orlando. If you are looking for K-12 educational opportunities, the Florida Department of Education provides a variety of valuable information.