Long layovers can quickly turn into a test of patience, especially in a busy, tourist-driven hub like Orlando. If you’re killing time between flights or facing an overnight wait, knowing what’s realistically available can make things feel more manageable. These things to do at Orlando Airport focus on food, distractions, rest, and short escapes—nothing flashy, just practical ways to pass the time without unrealistic expectations.
1. Enjoy a meal
Food options are plentiful at Orlando Airport, though they skew heavily toward fast food and familiar chains. You’ll find reliable grab-and-go choices like Chick-fil-A, Burger King, Chipotle, Dunkin’, Starbucks, and McDonald’s scattered throughout the terminals, which is helpful if you’re short on time or arriving late. Sit-down chains such as Outback Steakhouse, Ruby Tuesday, and Italian-style casual restaurants offer a slower pace if you’re not rushing.
For something more regionally themed, Cask & Larder is often cited as a highlight, serving Southern-inspired comfort food alongside Florida craft beer. It’s one of the few places that feels distinctively local, though hours and crowd levels vary. If you’re landside, the Hyatt Regency’s restaurant is quieter than most terminal dining spots and offers runway views—useful if you want a calmer environment.
Travellers arriving overnight should keep expectations modest. While some coffee and fast-food locations open early or close late, true 24-hour dining is limited, and options may be unavailable during overnight hours.
2. Hang out in a lounge
There are a few airport lounges available, and access depends heavily on your airline, ticket class, or membership program. Some lounges allow paid entry or accept third-party lounge passes, which can be useful for economy travellers looking for quieter seating, snacks, Wi-Fi, and sometimes showers. Details and locations are listed in our Orlando Airport Guide.
3. Go shopping
Shopping at Orlando Airport is extensive but practical rather than luxurious. Alongside the usual convenience stores, bookstores, electronics shops, and duty-free outlets, you’ll find a strong theme-park presence reflecting the region. Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld shops dominate the souvenir scene, selling branded apparel, toys, and last-minute gifts that appeal to tourists who skipped shopping earlier in their trip.
Florida-themed stores focus on beachwear, sunglasses, snacks, and travel essentials, while specialty shops sell candy, cosmetics, and tech accessories. Prices are typical for an airport, not bargain-level, but the variety makes it easy to browse if you’re looking to kill time or grab something lightweight for carry-on luggage.
4. Get pampered
If you’re feeling stiff or run-down, spa services can provide a brief reset during a long layover. Terminal spas offer short massages, manicures, pedicures, and facial treatments designed for travellers on tight schedules. These services are useful for passing time in comfort, though they’re priced at a premium and availability depends on terminal location and staffing.
5. Take in some art
Art installations and rotating exhibits are scattered throughout the terminals, offering a low-effort way to stretch your legs and pass time. Don’t expect a gallery experience, but it can make wandering the concourses feel less monotonous.
6. Go sightseeing
Leaving the airport only makes sense if you have a long layover and enough buffer to clear security again without stress. Downtown Orlando is reachable, but public transportation is slow and best suited for travellers with plenty of time. Taxis or rideshares are faster but add cost.
Once downtown, Lake Eola is a manageable stop for stretching your legs and getting fresh air, with a walkable path and nearby cafés. Cultural stops like the Orlando Museum of Art or the Orlando Science Center work well for daytime layovers, while Thornton Park offers quieter streets and local cafés away from the theme-park crowds. Church Street is better suited for dining and casual shopping if you want something more lively.
Theme parks are technically possible on very long layovers, but they’re rarely efficient due to transportation time, ticket logistics, and crowds. For shorter breaks, staying closer to the airport—or simply resting landside—often results in less stress and better use of your time. Visit Tripadvisor for more things to do in Orlando.
7. WiFi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport and generally reliable, though speeds can slow during peak travel times.
8. Sleep
Sleeping at the airport is possible, but comfort is limited. Landside seating tends to be firmer and more exposed, while airside areas offer padded chairs and benches but remain noisy and brightly lit. Overnight travellers should be aware that access past security depends on checkpoint hours; if you exit airside late at night, re-entry may not be possible until early morning. Noise, foot traffic, and cold temperatures are common complaints, so earplugs and warm layers help.
For real rest, the on-site Hyatt Regency is the most convenient option, with rooms accessible directly from the terminal. Nearby off-airport hotels can also work for overnight layovers, especially if they offer reliable shuttle service. See our Orlando Airport Guide for details.
Updated 5 January 2026
These are just a few things to do on a layover at Orlando Airport. Visit our Orlando Airport Guide for more information about the services and facilities available, such as food, WiFi, mobile charging, luggage storage, nearby airport hotels, and much more.