Orlando Vacation Money Saving Tips

Though you may intend on going to theme parks while in Orlando, they can sometimes be costly'especially if you stay on theme park property and eat all of your meals in the parks. In order to save some money there are a few things you can do.

Shopping

If you're in the market for souvenirs, you might want to think twice about solely purchasing them from the theme parks. Orlando is home to numerous gift shops that offer discounted souvenirs. From t-shirts and snow globes to figurines and key chains, merchandise is diverse and appeals to guests with all types of interests. Especially on International Drive and 192, there are plenty of shops that offer both theme park-specific types of gifts and Orlando souvenirs. This can result in big savings.

Dining

Sure, dining at a theme park can be fun. You can have breakfast, lunch or dinner with your favorite characters. You can indulge in theme park-inspired cuisine. And you can even enjoy the convenience of refueling without leaving theme park grounds. Still, this can result in extra spending. Theme parks are notorious for overcharging on everything from drinks and snacks to full meals. To save some money you can try limiting the number of meals you spend in the theme parks. Instead, take a break in the afternoon and go back to your hotel for lunch. Or have dinner offsite at a less-expensive restaurant.

Discounts

Another way to save money on your Orlando vacation is to look for area discounts. These include Florida-resident, military and AAA just to name a few. Theme parks, other attractions, restaurants, museums and gift shops all offer discounts. If you're staying in a hotel or you visit a restaurant, look for a brochure stand. Brochures often feature coupons for area attractions and dining. If you book a vacation home, ask about any deals that include theme park tickets.

Attractions

Whether or not you are going to Orlando for the major theme parks, be aware that there are plenty of smaller, often less-expensive attractions. Orlando is home to a variety of things to do'from golf courses, horseback riding, canoeing and kayaking to indoor skydiving, helicopter tours, air balloon rides, water slides and museums. And many of the smaller attractions offer reasonably priced admission'sometimes even free'as well as free parking. Whether you want to go to a themed restaurant or window-shop at the outlet malls, you will find plenty to do in addition to the theme parks.

Other Areas

If you are in fact going to Orlando in order to visit the major theme parks, you may be unaware of other areas to explore. International drive is home to more then 100 hotels, over 450 restaurants and more than 485 designer stores. Here you will also find a Wet'n Wild, SkyVenture, Ripley's Believe It or Not, Wonderworks and miniature golfing, go-karts and more. Downtown Orlando is home to Lake Eola where you can take a walk, go on the swings, have a lakeside lunch or ride a swan boat. You can also take advantage of the nightlife having some cocktails, dancing or seeing a concert at one of the menu bars or venues. And in Winter Park you will find picturesque sidewalks, beautiful landscaping, boutiques, designer shops, art galleries and sidewalk dining. While these areas vary in cost, each one is diverse and can save you money that you might spend by solely going to theme parks.

The main thing to remember is that you should do your research. Have an idea about what you want to do in Orlando and research any deals that you may be able to take advantage of. Proper planning and being in-the-know can easily result in hundreds of dollars worth of savings.

Mary Boland writes about all things "vacation." I have been writing travel based articles for 5 years and love going on vacation. Orlando hotel packages offer great value for your family vacation. They provide tickets and Orlando hotels.