Why January is a Great Time to Visit Orlando

Are you planning your first trip to Orlando, Florida or looking for a refreshing return to the Sunshine State? In either case, January may be the perfect month for you to have some fun with family or friends. The environment of the Sunshine State allows you to stay active and enjoy warm weather for your activities. You will have access to a variety of theme parks and attractions to fill your getaway with thrills. Staying at Margaritaville Resort Orlando makes it easy to create memories in a warm winter. This guide explains why January is a great time to visit Orlando.

1. Lake Eola Park

Vacationing in Orlando grants you a better chance of experiencing good weather on a regular basis. This makes Lake Eola Park a perfect spot for a picnic under the sun for your January getaway. Visitors have access to multiple walking paths to stay active during stays, as well as a beautiful view of a lake with a fountain. The playground offers entertainment for children, and you can get food for your picnic from the park’s vendors and cafes.

Aerial view of Lake Eola next to downtown Orlando, Florida

2. SeaWorld Orlando

Orlando is home to numerous theme parks to choose from in case you want to add excitement to your retreat at Margaritaville. Among these parks is SeaWorld, which is a must for both fans of thrilling rides and aquatic life. Take your family or friend group on tours of dolphins, manatees, sea lions, sharks, and other unique creatures of the ocean. Rides such as Pipeline: The Surf Coaster, Ice Breaker, Kraken, and Infinity Falls ensure you have a thrilling vacation.

Young boy looking at a dolphin

3. Orlando Science Center

Are you a man or woman of science who prefers to use their free time learning more about how our world works? If so, then we recommend spending a day in your vacation at the Orlando Science Center. This science museum provides exhibits that explain different aspects of our universe and history, such as Our Planet, NatureWorks, Kinetic Zone, and DinoDigs. Programs are available in case you are visiting with your children and want to introduce them to science.

Scientist performing an experiment on stage at the Orlando Science Center Ⓒ Orlando Science Center

4. The Florida Mall

Any successful vacation requires time saved for shopping, whether it’s just for time off with loved ones or for a special occasion. Those who spend their next getaway at Margaritaville will need to save time for the Florida Mall. The third largest shopping mall in the state of Florida is home to popular stores such as Zara, Macy’s, Mayors Jewelers, and Sephora. The Florida Mall offers multiple restaurants for a nice lunch and a break from your shopping spree.

Female friends window shopping

5. Universal Orlando Resort

Another theme park in Orlando that can fill your vacation with thrills is Universal Orlando Resort. You can spend the day at both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure for exciting rides and interactions with characters from popular films. Areas based on the Jurassic Park, Harry Potter and Marvel franchises offer a variety of attractions with fun for guests of all ages. Stop by Universal CityWalk for a shopping break and multiple restaurants for lunches and meals.

People walking through Hogsmeade at Universal Orlando Islands of Adventure Ⓒ Universal

6. The Central Florida Zoo

Animal lovers who want to spend their time off around unique creatures will want to save a day for a trip to Central Florida Zoo. Guests can take tours to watch animals such as cougars, Florida black bears, one-horned rhinos, and American crocodiles unwind under the sun. Attractions that keep the zoo experience fun include the Seminole Aerial Adventures Zipline Courses, Train Ride, Keeper Chats, and Wharton-Smith Tropical Splash Ground. Educational programs are also available for both kids and adults.

Close up of baby alligators

7. ICON Park

Fun for different ages is easy to achieve for guests at Margaritaville with a day spent at Orlando’s ICON Park. This entertainment complex is free to enter and offers sources of fun such as The Pearl Express, InTheGame, the Orlando Starflyer, and the SeaLife Center. The Wheel at ICON Park provides a beautiful view of Orlando, especially if you go on around sunset. Dining comes in different forms, and you can enjoy live music and the chance to shop for souvenirs.

8. Escapology

When it comes to attractions that offer fun for both teenagers and adults, Escapology at Sunset Walk is a reliable source of entertainment. You will be able to solve puzzles and test your creativity and attention to detail.

You can help Batman fight crime in "Batman: The Dark Knight Challenge" or channel your inner pirate with "A Pirate's Curse." Escapology's "Kids Mode" offers fun for those visiting with younger kids, and Star Trek fans can save Discovery's crew in "Star Trek: Quantum Filament."

A couple participating in an Escape Room challenge

9. LEGOLAND Florida

LEGO fans both young and old can find fun for all ages at LEGOLAND in Orlando. Parents with younger kids can take them on Beetle Bounce, Coastersaurus, and Kid Power Towers for adventure in a LEGO-themed environment. Rides such as The Great LEGO Race, The LEGO MOVIE Masters of Flight, and The Dragon can add extra thrills for your family. You will also have the chance to make your own LEGO structures to take home for your LEGO collection.

10. Walt Disney World Resort

Disney fans who want to spend their Orlando trip in a world of magic will want to save some time for Disney World. You will have access to four main parks that bring their own unique experiences. Take pictures with your favorite Disney characters at Hollywood Studios, or take a tour of unique animals at Animal Kingdom. You can learn about different cultures at EPCOT or seek thrills at Magic Kingdom.

When it comes to escaping winter weather for a fun time under the sun, January is the perfect time for an Orlando retreat. Book your vacation at Margaritaville today to turn your start the year with an adventure.