Even though the rain is dampening New York City this week, summer only is about a month away (and a couple weeks if you count the unofficial Memorial Day Weekend), and we couldn’t be anymore excited.
Requesting PTO, booking flights, and scrolling through Airbnb listings is now our top priority, especially for summer 2025 which is set to be the hottest yet.
Once city in particular, Orlando, Florida is particularly catching our eye — especially since it was just named the best summer travel destination in the U.S. by WalletHub
The metro area earned the top spot mainly due to its attractions, including huge theme parks, water parks, boat tours, ice cream shops, coffee shops, shopping centers and spas, and more.
The study also mentions that Orlando’s affordability makes it one of the best, with three-star hotel rooms even starting at $42 per night.
Intrigued to book it yet? We walk you through some eye-catching itinerary potentials and an even more unbeatable price.
Things to do in Orlando, FL on your vacation
Universal’s Epic Universe (New for 2025!)
This brand-new theme park opening on open on May 22, 2025 features immersive worlds from SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Ministry of Magic™, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk and the thrilling Dark Universe.
Themed-rides and attractions will be unveiled as well including a Mario-themed augmented reality dark ride in Super Nintendo World and a family-friendly coaster in the Isle of Berk that simulates flying on a dragon.
Walt Disney World Resort
The classic Orlando experience and the “Most Magical Place on Earth.”
With four theme parks, two water parks, and endless magic for all ages, Walt Disney World Resort is one of the most iconic theme parks in the world with attractions, fireworks, rides, musical parades, Disney characters, and so much more.
Discovery Cove
Befriend marine animals, swim with dolphins, snorkel in a tropical reef, and relax in an all-inclusive paradise — with meals and drinks included.
ICON Park
This 20,000 acre open-air open-air entertainment complex features a 400-foot observation wheel, a SEA LIFE Aquarium, a Madame Tussauds, restaurants, shopping, and so much more.
It’s all located in the heart of Orlando’s International Drive.
LEGOLAND Water Park
A LEGO-themed waterpark that’s perfect for kids—with slides, splash zones, wave pools, lazy rivers, and a whole lot more.
How to fly to Orlando for less than $50
Yes, you really can fly to Orlando for under $50-especially from major cities like New York!
Budget airlines such as Spirit, Frontier, and Breeze Airways regularly offer one-way fares starting at just $39–$50 from NYC-area airports (JFK, LaGuardia, Newark).
Recent Deals we’ve found via Priceline:
- $43 one-way on Frontier
- $47 one-way on CitizenPlane
- $49 one-way on Spirit
- Round-trip deals as low as $84
Pro Tip: Book early, travel midweek, and pack light to avoid extra fees from budget carriers. If you’re open to flying out of any NYC-area airport, you’ll have even more options for ultra-cheap fares.
Pro Tip: Use Google Flights, Hopper, or Skyscanner to track deals and set price alerts!