Orlando Airport Layover Guide: Best Ways to Spend Your Time

As a pilot who commutes between Orlando and New York for work, I’ve come to truly appreciate the unique layout of Orlando International Airport (MCO). Whether you’re here on a weekly basis or just passing through, a layover at MCO can be either a fantastic experience or a frustrating one, depending on how well you navigate its offerings. 

The airport is packed with hidden gems, impressive amenities, and a wide variety of dining options, but it’s design requires strategic planning to see it all. If you’re willing to put in a little effort, there’s a ton to explore that will make your hour or more here as awesome as Orlando itself. 

From family-focused retail options to an extensive flight network, MCO has something for everyone—if you know where to look!

Overview of Orlando International Airport (MCO)

Located just 10 miles southeast of downtown Orlando, Florida, MCO is a busy travel hub with three terminals designed for different flight needs. Terminals A & B serve as the main hub for domestic flights and some international airlines, including Virgin, Delta, and United. 

Meanwhile, Terminal C, the new terminal, is focused on catering to international travelers and JetBlue’s growing domestic and international routes. Getting around is easy with various transportation options, including rental cars, rideshares, hotel shuttles, and Lynx public buses. 

For those with time to spare, MCO offers plenty of amenities like free Wi-Fi, lounges, an in-terminal hotel, play areas, spa services, and shopping options, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable layover experience.

Navigating Terminals A & B

At MCO, Terminals A and B are designed with four airside concourses, each serving specific gates and connected by people movers, which are small trains or trams. Airside 1 and Airside 3 share the same security checkpoint, covering Gates 1-29 and Gates 30-59, while Airside 2 and Airside 4 have a different checkpoint for Gates 60-99 and Gates 100-129. 

These concourses have limited amenities and can become crowded, especially during busy times like the holidays. If you’re exploring, you may require exiting security and re-entering, which can lead to long security lines. At a minimum, you will need to take a people mover to reach a parallel concourse, so plan accordingly to make the most of your layover.

Exploring the Modern Terminal C

The good news for travelers is that Orlando’s newest terminal, Terminal C, is entirely separate but still easily accessible through a people mover located in the public area outside of security. Unlike the older terminals, it offers a ton to do without needing to leave the secure area, making it a great spot to relax or explore during a layover.

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Top 10 Ways to Spend Your Layover at MCO

A stopover at Orlando International Airport (MCO) is a chance to explore more than just the terminals. If you know where to go, you can find excellent local eats, surprisingly cool art exhibits, and lounges that actually make layovers bearable. 

This airport definitely has hidden gems worth seeking out, whether you’re craving Cuban coffee, need a quiet place to recharge, or want to admire Terminal C’s next-level design and artwork. With so much the airport offers, there’s way more to do than meets the eye—here are my top 10 picks for making the most of your time inside MCO on a layover.

Savor Local Cuisine

A 3-4 hour layover at MCO is the perfect chance to skip fast food and enjoy a real meal. Head to Cask & Larder in Terminal C for Southern-inspired dishes like fried chicken and smoked brisket, paired with craft beer brewed on-site. 

Over in Terminal A, Zaza Cuban Comfort Food serves authentic Cuban sandwiches and a café con leche strong enough to wake the dead. If you have extra time, check out Hemisphere at the Hyatt Regency, near the security checkpoint for gates 60-129, offering fresh seafood, steak, and unbeatable runway views. It’s pricier, but for a longer layover, it’s totally worth it.

Relax in Airport Lounges

If you need a break at MCO, there are great lounges to relax in. The Club MCO is a solid go-to spot in Concourses A (Gates 1-29 side) and B (Gates 70-99 side), offering comfy chairs, snacks, solid drink selection, and showers at both locations. Priority Pass members can enjoy complimentary access, while others can purchase a day pass for $50. 

Delta flyers can unwind at the Sky Club in Terminal B, where the food and cocktails are above average for an airport lounge—just verify your access first. Over in Terminal C, the Plaza Premium Lounge is sleek and modern, with plenty of seating and decent food. Like The Club, it’s complimentary for PriorityPass members, but walk-in rates start at $70 for 3 hours if you’re just passing through.

Catch a Nap or Refresh with a Shower

If you’re laying over at Orlando International Airport for 6 hours or more, the Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport inside the main terminal A/B is a great choice. Located near the security checkpoint for gates 60-129, this airport hotel is incredibly convenient and even offers day-use rooms if you need a private space to rest. 

I personally recommend booking a short stay here—it feels like a hidden gem for travelers. You can refresh at the rooftop pool or hit the fitness center before your next flight. While some argue that the DTW Westin is the best, this hotel is definitely among the best in the world for layovers.

Discover Hidden Art Around MCO

If you know where to look, MCO offers a surprising amount of art that makes a layover feel like a mini museum visit. The famous “The Traveler” sculpture, sitting between Terminals A and B in the public, land-side area, is a hyper-real wax figure of a tired traveler who appears to be asleep—the epitome of waiting at Orlando Airport, honestly. 

Over at Terminal C, the airport ups its game with rotating exhibits, bold murals, and striking sculptures that highlight local talent without ever having to leave the secure zone. Even if you’re not an “art person,” these unique installations, as written about in Airport-World, make wandering the terminals far more interesting than just sitting at your gate.

If you’re into art and culture, consider a visit to Dominica, a stunning Caribbean island full of hidden treasures, as detailed in my post Dominica: The Best Caribbean Island You Didn’t Know Existed.

“Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.” – Thomas Merton

Unwind in Reflection Rooms

If you need a quiet spot to decompress at MCO, the Reflection and Serenity Rooms are a great escape. Tucked away in Terminals A, B, and C, these minimalist, interfaith spaces offer a peaceful break from the airport rush. Whether you’re meditating, praying, or escaping noise, these little airport features provide a calm atmosphere many travelers don’t take advantage of. You don’t have to be religious or even filming TikTok—just step into these nooks of peace and quiet and simply enjoy the stillness.

Shop for Unique Orlando Souvenirs

If you have time to spare at Orlando Airport, skip the usual shops and explore the Kennedy Space Center Stores for cool NASA gear like mission patches, astronaut ice cream, and space-themed toys—a must for space lovers. If you’re a fan of theme parks, the Disney and Universal stores have great last-minute souvenirs, from Mickey ears to Harry Potter wands, making them ideal if you didn’t get a chance to visit the parks. 

For something more local, stop by the SeaWorld Store for marine-themed souvenirs or grab some Florida-inspired snacks at the Hyatt Regency lobby shop before your flight.

Store	What to Buy
Kennedy Space Center Shop	NASA gear, mission patches, astronaut ice cream
Disney & Universal Stores	Last-minute theme park souvenirs
SeaWorld Store	Marine-themed gifts

Visit the Airport Aquarium for a Calm Break

If you need a break from the airport rush, head to the main food court between Terminals A and B on the land-side, where you’ll find a huge 3,000-gallon saltwater aquarium. It’s a surprisingly peaceful spot to sit and watch tropical fish glide through the water while you wait for your flight. 

This is a great place for traveling kids to stay entertained for at least 15 minutes or more, giving parents a moment to relax. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a diver cleaning the tank, making the experience even more fascinating.

Indulge in Spa and Wellness Services

If your travel-weary body needs a break, head to XpresSpa at Airside 1 or 3 for a quick chair massage, facial, or mani-pedi—totally worth it, especially if you have a Priority Pass for a free treatment. MCO is one of the few airports that offers a Zero-Gravity Massage Chair, a must-try for ultimate relaxation. 

If you’re looking for a bigger recharge, the Hyatt Regency’s rooftop pool is perfect for a refreshing dip, and their fitness center is surprisingly well-equipped for an airport gym session.

Treat Yourself to a Sweet Delight

If you need a sugar boost during your layover, stop by Sweet Bubbles and Buns in Terminal A, land-side for some Taiwanese bubble tea and Instagram-worthy bao buns that taste just as good as they look. Not a fan of bubble tea? Head over to Carvel in Terminal B for a creamy gelato or a rich milkshake instead. There’s something about sweet treats that makes airport waits much more bearable!

Experience the Innovation of Terminal C

If you haven’t flown through Terminal C yet, you’re truly missing out—it feels light years ahead of the older terminals with its high ceilings, smart tech, and biometric gates that make security a breeze. The wide-open spaces create a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for unwinding before your flight. 

For top-tier dining, head to Wine Bar George for incredible small plates and a wine list that rivals downtown Orlando hotspots. If you’re outside the airside area, grab a coffee at Starbucks or Barnie’s Coffee & Tea Co., but the best amenities are beyond gates C230-C245, past security.

Top 10 Things to Do Inside Orlando International Airport

Dine at Local Favorites like Cask & Larder in Terminal C, where you can enjoy a modern Southern kitchen experience with fresh dishes and craft beer. For a Cuban twist, Zaza Cuban Comfort Food in Terminal A serves authentic Cuban sandwiches and strong coffee.

Relax at a Lounge like The Club MCO in Concourses A & B, which offers snacks, drinks, and shower facilities. If you’re a PriorityPass member, you get easy access. Prefer exclusivity? The Delta Sky Club in Terminal B is a premium lounge for select Delta and Virgin Atlantic travelers.

Unwind at the Plaza Premium Lounge in Terminal C—a large, new space with free snacks, and food and drinks available for purchase.

Grab a nap or shower at the Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport in the main terminal A/B, outside security. This hotel features day-use rooms, a rooftop pool, and a fitness center. Be sure to visit the incredible Hemisphere restaurant for stunning runway views and delicious cuisine.

Visit Art Exhibits around MCO, where you’ll find stunning displays, installations, sculptures, murals, and rotating exhibits in different terminals. The most famous piece, “The Traveler,” is located halfway between Terminals A & B.

Enjoy Peace and Quiet in the Reflection Room in Terminals A, B, and C. This peaceful relaxation space is perfect for interfaith meditation or simply unwinding in a serenity space post-security.

Shop for Unique Souvenirs at the Kennedy Space Center Shop for space-themed gifts or stop by the Disney and Universal Stores to get a taste of Orlando’s theme parks before your flight.

Chill at the 3000-gallon Aquarium in the public-area food court between Terminals A & B. Whether you’re flying with kids or just need a moment of peace, watching the colorful fish swim is incredibly soothing.

Pamper yourself at XpresSpa in Airside 1 & 3, where you can get a massage, facial, or manicure. If you have a PriorityPass membership, you might even enjoy free services.

Sip on Delicious Milk Tea at Sweet Bubbles and Buns in Terminal A, Public Area. The fun, cute vibe pairs perfectly with their delicious Taiwanese tea and snacks.

10 Best Things to Do from Orlando (MCO) Airport

If you have a few hours at MCO, don’t just wait—turn your layover into an exciting mini-adventure! Renting a car is highly recommended for an easy and convenient way to maximize your time exploring. Prefer a quicker option? Rideshare services are easily accessible for convenient trips to nearby destinations. 

Take a short ride to a scenic lake for a relaxing break or immerse yourself in Orlando’s vibrant entertainment hubs. Pro Tip: Don’t overlook the incredible local dining options near the airport—like Pisco Peruvian Cuisine, a world-renowned restaurant just 10 minutes away, serving authentic Peruvian dishes for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Quick Stops (Within 15-30 Minutes each way):

1. Disney Springs is just 25 min away and offers a chance to shop, dine, and enjoy live entertainment at this free Disney destination—no theme park ticket required.
2. Head to Universal CityWalk in 20 min for a lively hub filled with dining, shopping, and mini-golf at Universal Orlando Resort. You might even find discounted experiences on Viator.
3. If you prefer a relaxed setting, visit Lake Nona Town Center in just 15 min. This modern community features great restaurants, art installations, outdoor spaces, and some of the best coffee at CFS Coffee for the Soul, Lake Nona.
4. Explore the charm of Winter Park in 30 min, where boutique shops, cafes, and museums like the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum (known for its Tiffany glass) create a perfect cultural escape.
5. Take a break at Downtown Orlando & Lake Eola Park within 25 min. You can stroll around the lake, rent a swan boat, and experience downtown’s vibrant dining scene.

For Longer Layovers (4+ Hours):

6. Walt Disney World® is just 25 min away, making it a great option for a 1-6 hour experience. You don’t need a park ticket to explore the stunning resort hotels, dine at themed restaurants, or take a walk along Disney’s BoardWalk. To save time, you can book a transfer in advance.
7. If you love thrills, The Fun Spot is a fantastic choice for a 1-8 hour experience. Just 20 min from the airport, it’s perfect for families who want to enjoy thrill rides, arcade games, and exciting go-kart racing.
8. For a true Floridian experience, head to Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures, just 20 min away. In a 1-2 hour experience, you can glide through Everglades-style wetlands on a high-speed airboat, spotting wildlife along the way.
9. Space lovers should consider the Kennedy Space Center, located 50 min from MCO. This 4-8 hour experience lets you go on an incredible space adventure at NASA, where you can meet an Astronaut, explore exhibits, and see the Space Shuttle Atlantis. If your layover is 7 or more hours, this is a must-visit.
10. ICON Park, just 25 min from the airport, is a great place for a 1-4 hour experience. Ride The Orlando Eye, a 400-foot observation wheel offering panoramic views of Orlando, enjoy delicious food venues, visit museums, or snap photos with wax figures at Madame Tussauds.

Tips for Layovers at MCO

A layover at MCO doesn’t have to be a drag—with a little know-how, you can turn it into something productive and enjoyable. Whether you prefer lounging in style, grabbing a bite, or exploring hidden gems, there’s plenty to do near the airport to make your time pass quickly. Just a little planning goes a long way, so keep these reminders and tips in mind:

• Check TSA Wait Times on the MCO app or use TSA PreCheck to get through security lines efficiently.
• For transportation, rideshares and rental cars are the fastest way to reach nearby attractions, while Lynx buses are economical but slower.
• Use Luggage Storage at Hold My Luggage in Terminal B if you plan on venturing out.
• Be prepared for Orlando’s sunny yet unpredictable weather by carrying a travel-sized umbrella or rain jacket.
• If you plan to visit Disney or Universal, look for single-day tickets or fast pass options for quick visits.
• Check out my Layover Survival Guide for ideas on what to pack, bring, and other top tips to make your layover truly enjoyable.

Fastest Security Checkpoints

Navigating security at MCO can be time-consuming, especially during peak travel hours. If you’re short on time, consider using the TSA PreCheck lanes, which often have shorter lines. Terminal C generally has faster security due to its modernized screening process, while Terminals A and B can experience long waits. Checking real-time wait times on the MCO app can help you choose the quickest option.

Free Charging & Water Refill Stations

MCO offers plenty of charging stations throughout its terminals, making it easy to power up your devices before a flight. Many of these are located near seating areas, food courts, and lounges. Additionally, free water bottle refill stations are available in all terminals, allowing you to stay hydrated without purchasing expensive bottled water.

Best Workspaces for Business Travelers

If you need a quiet place to work during your layover, MCO has several options. The Hyatt Regency offers comfortable seating in its lobby and Hemisphere restaurant, perfect for catching up on emails. Lounges like The Club MCO and the Plaza Premium Lounge provide a peaceful atmosphere with Wi-Fi and work-friendly seating. Terminal C also has modern, well-lit spaces designed for productivity.

Tips for Traveling During Peak Seasons

Orlando International Airport is one of the busiest travel hubs in the U.S., especially during holidays and summer vacations. To avoid long lines, arrive early and use TSA PreCheck if available. Midweek flights tend to have lighter crowds compared to weekends. If you’re traveling with family, using the airport’s play areas or grabbing a meal before security can make the wait more enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Question

How long does it take to get through security at MCO?

Security wait times vary, but during peak hours, expect 30-60 minutes. Check the MCO app for real-time updates or use TSA PreCheck for faster screening.

Is there free Wi-Fi at Orlando International Airport?

Yes, MCO provides free unlimited Wi-Fi throughout the airport. Simply connect to the “MCO Internet” network for fast browsing, streaming, and work-related tasks during your layover.

Can I leave the airport during a layover at MCO?

Yes! If you have at least four hours, you can visit Disney Springs, Universal CityWalk, or Lake Nona. Allow extra time for security when returning.

What’s the best lounge at MCO for a layover?

The Club MCO in Terminals A and B is excellent, with food, drinks, and showers. Terminal C’s Plaza Premium Lounge is also a great choice for relaxation and refreshments.

Where can I store my luggage during a layover at MCO?

Hold My Luggage in Terminal B offers luggage storage services. This is perfect if you plan to explore Orlando or just want to move around the airport freely.

What are the best restaurants inside Orlando International Airport?

Cask & Larder in Terminal C offers Southern comfort food, while Zaza Cuban Comfort Food in Terminal A serves delicious Cuban sandwiches and café con leche.

Are there any quiet places to relax at MCO?

Yes, Reflection Rooms in Terminals A, B, and C provide peaceful spaces for meditation or relaxation. Lounges and the Hyatt Regency lobby also offer comfortable seating.

Does Orlando Airport have sleeping areas or hotels?

Yes! The Hyatt Regency inside the airport offers day-use rooms and overnight stays. Lounges with recliners and quiet areas are also available for short naps.

How can I get to Terminal C from Terminals A or B?

A free people mover connects Terminal C to the main terminal. It’s located in the public area, making it easy to transfer between terminals quickly.

What’s a fun thing to do at MCO if traveling with kids?

Check out the 3,000-gallon aquarium in the food court, visit the Disney and Universal stores, or explore the airport’s interactive art displays for family-friendly entertainment.

Conclusion

A layover at MCO doesn’t have to feel like wasted time. With a little effort, you can turn it into a chance to unwind or explore. Whether you’re flying for business or pleasure, this airport has plenty to offer. 

Grab some local eats, browse unique shops, or find quiet spots for recharging inside the terminal. If you have extra time, discover the hidden gems around MCO instead of rushing to your gate. No matter how long you’re passing through, take a moment to enjoy the experience, embrace the ride, and, as always, safe travels—see you in the skies!

“Travel is not about the destination, but the experience along the way.”