Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is Florida’s busiest airport and one of the largest airports in the U.S., serving over 50 million passengers annually. Located approximately 10 miles southeast of downtown Orlando, MCO is the primary gateway to Central Florida, a region renowned for its world-class theme parks, attractions, and business hubs. The airport is a major hub for domestic and international travel, offering over 850 daily flights to more than 135 destinations worldwide.
MCO is known for its modern, spacious design and traveler-friendly services, making it a convenient and comfortable option for both leisure and business travelers. The airport features two main terminals, A and B, which are connected by a central atrium. A newer Terminal C has recently opened, further expanding the airport’s capacity and offering state-of-the-art facilities.
As the gateway to Orlando’s theme parks, including Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld, as well as the convention centers and business districts, MCO is a vital hub for both tourism and commerce.
Terminals and Services
1. Terminal Layout: MCO consists of two main terminals (Terminal A and Terminal B), along with the newly opened Terminal C, all designed to provide efficient service for millions of passengers.
- Terminal A: Primarily serves airlines such as JetBlue, Alaska Airlines, and Frontier Airlines. Terminal A handles a mix of domestic and international flights and offers a wide range of dining, shopping, and services.
- Terminal B: This terminal is used by major airlines like Delta, American Airlines, Southwest, and British Airways. It features both domestic and international gates and is equipped with extensive amenities for travelers.
- Terminal C: Opened in 2022, Terminal C is a high-tech terminal serving international and select domestic flights, with airlines such as Aer Lingus, Emirates, and British Airways operating from here. Terminal C is designed with enhanced security features, advanced technology, and more efficient passenger flow, making it a state-of-the-art addition to the airport.
2. Amenities and Services: MCO offers a wide array of services and amenities designed to make travel easier and more enjoyable for passengers.
- Shopping and Dining: MCO boasts a variety of dining and shopping options spread across its terminals. Travelers can enjoy everything from fast food to sit-down meals at restaurants like Cask & Larder, a Southern-inspired eatery, Zaza Cuban Café, and national chains like Chick-fil-A and Starbucks. For shopping, MCO offers both duty-free shops and retail outlets, including Universal Studios Store, Disney’s EarPort, and SeaWorld Store, allowing travelers to bring home themed merchandise.
- Lounges: The airport has several airline lounges, including the Delta Sky Club, United Club, American Airlines Admirals Club, and The Club MCO (a pay-per-entry lounge that provides food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and quiet spaces for relaxation).
- Wi-Fi and Charging Stations: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and passengers can find numerous charging stations and USB ports for keeping their devices powered.
- Play Areas: MCO features multiple play areas for children to enjoy while waiting for their flights, including interactive spaces designed to entertain and engage young travelers.
- Pet Relief Areas: Pet relief areas are available both inside and outside the terminals, ensuring comfort for passengers traveling with pets.
- Spa Services: Passengers looking for relaxation can enjoy spa treatments such as massages, manicures, and facials at XpresSpa, located in the terminals.
Transportation and Connectivity
1. Ground Transportation: MCO is well-connected to the surrounding areas through a variety of transportation options, making it easy for visitors to get to their destination quickly and efficiently.
- Rental Cars: The Rental Car Center, located on-site, provides access to a wide range of rental car companies, including Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, and Budget. Rental cars are a convenient option for those looking to explore Central Florida at their own pace.
- Shuttle Services: Shuttle services are available to many hotels in the Orlando area, as well as to popular attractions like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando. These shuttles provide a convenient and often complimentary way to travel between the airport and nearby accommodations.
- Rideshares and Taxis: Uber, Lyft, and taxis are readily available for passengers outside the baggage claim areas in both Terminal A and Terminal B.
- Public Transit: The LYNX Bus system connects MCO to various parts of Orlando, offering an affordable option for passengers looking to travel downtown or to other nearby areas.
- Brightline Train: Starting in 2023, the Brightline Train connects MCO with several South Florida cities, including Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach, offering a fast and comfortable alternative for long-distance travel.
2. Parking: MCO offers a variety of parking options, from short-term parking near the terminal to long-term economy parking.
- Parking Garages: Two main parking garages (A and B) are located directly adjacent to the terminal, offering convenient parking for short stays or passenger drop-offs.
- Economy Lots: The airport also offers more affordable long-term parking options in its economy lots, with shuttle services that transport passengers to and from the terminals.
- Valet Parking: Valet parking is available for passengers seeking a more streamlined parking experience.
Things to Do Nearby for Visitors
Visitors flying into Orlando International Airport are just a short distance from some of the most famous attractions in the world. Whether you’re here for a layover or an extended stay, there are plenty of things to see and do nearby.
1. Walt Disney World Resort: Located about 20 miles from MCO, Walt Disney World is one of the most iconic theme park destinations in the world. Visitors can explore Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom—each offering unique experiences, thrilling rides, live entertainment, and character encounters. The resort also features a wide range of dining, shopping, and accommodation options, including luxury hotels and themed resorts.
2. Universal Orlando Resort: Just 15 miles from MCO, Universal Orlando Resort is home to two major theme parks—Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure—as well as the water park Volcano Bay. Universal Orlando offers guests a chance to experience attractions based on popular films and franchises like Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, The Simpsons, and Fast & Furious. Universal’s CityWalk also provides a lively area for shopping, dining, and nightlife.
3. SeaWorld Orlando: Located about 13 miles from the airport, SeaWorld Orlando is a marine-themed park featuring thrilling rides, animal exhibits, and live shows. Visitors can experience attractions like Mako, the tallest roller coaster in Orlando, and enjoy close encounters with marine life such as dolphins, sea turtles, and penguins.
4. International Drive International Drive: (I-Drive) is a popular tourist corridor located about 15 minutes from MCO. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of attractions, including ICON Park, which features the The Wheel, a 400-foot-tall observation wheel offering panoramic views of Orlando. Other highlights include Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, the SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, and a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops.
5. Kennedy Space Center: About an hour’s drive from MCO, the Kennedy Space Center offers visitors a chance to learn about space exploration and the history of NASA. Guests can explore exhibits featuring real spacecraft, watch space shuttle launch simulations, and even meet astronauts.
6. Lake Nona: For travelers looking to explore a more local side of Orlando, Lake Nona is a nearby community known for its innovation, parks, and outdoor activities. The area features a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shopping, as well as bike trails, art installations, and wellness-focused experiences.
Vicinity of Orlando International Airport
Dining and Shopping at MCO
1. Dining Options: MCO offers a wide variety of dining options throughout its terminals, catering to all tastes and preferences.
- Cask & Larder (Terminal A): A Southern-inspired restaurant offering freshly prepared meals, including smoked meats, craft beers, and artisan cocktails.
- Zaza Cuban Café (Terminal B): For those looking to sample authentic Cuban cuisine, Zaza offers Cuban sandwiches, empanadas, and rich café con leche.
- McCoy’s Bar & Grill (Hyatt Regency Hotel): Located within the airport’s Hyatt Regency, McCoy’s offers a full-service restaurant experience with a focus on international cuisine, sushi, and cocktails.
2. Shopping: MCO has a range of shopping options, from travel essentials and souvenirs to luxury goods and theme park merchandise.
- Universal Studios Store: Located in both Terminals A and B, these stores offer themed merchandise from Universal Orlando, including Harry Potter wands, t-shirts, and collectibles.
- Disney’s EarPort: A favorite for Disney fans, this store offers a selection of Disney-themed souvenirs, apparel, and accessories.
- SeaWorld Store: Passengers can purchase marine-themed gifts and memorabilia from SeaWorld, including plush animals and clothing.
- Duty-Free: For international travelers, duty-free shops offer a selection of cosmetics, fragrances, liquor, and luxury items.
Important Links (Suggest / Report)
- Orlando International Airport Official Website
www.orlandoairports.net
Get real-time flight information, terminal maps, and parking details. - Ground Transportation Options
https://orlandoairports.net/parking-transportation/
Learn more about ground transportation options, including rental cars, taxis, and public transit. - Nearby Attractions
www.visitorlando.com
Explore top things to do and attractions in the Orlando area.
Additional Details
- Location: 1 Jeff Fuqua Blvd, Orlando, FL 32827.
- Public Transportation: MCO is connected to the LYNX Bus system and the Brightline Train, providing convenient access to downtown Orlando and other parts of Florida.
- Parking: The airport offers a variety of parking options, including short-term, long-term, and valet services. Economy parking is available with shuttle service to the terminals.
- Accessibility: MCO provides full accessibility for passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair assistance, elevators, and accessible parking spaces.
