International Drive

The Basics

I-Drive is where you’ll find one the heaviest concentrations of restaurants, hotels, shopping and entertainment options in Orlando. In addition to the nearby theme parks, this resort area is also home to popular attractions, such as Madame Tussauds, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium and the ICON Orlando observation wheel—travelers can visit all three with a combo ticket. You can also visit WonderWorks, Ripley's Believe It Or not or enjoy dinner at Mango's Tropical Cafe!

Things to Know Before You Go

• International Drive is perfect for exploring when you need a day away from the theme parks.

• Don’t forget to bring sun protection for walking between shops, restaurants, and attractions.

• ATMs are located all along I-Drive in hotels, grocery stores, and shopping areas.

How to Get There

I-Drive parallels I-4 to its east. If you’re sightseeing around I-Drive, you can use the I-RIDE Trolley, which runs two routes every 20 or 30 minutes.

When to Get There

International Drive is accessible all the time, but individual businesses have their own operating hours. Show up first thing in the morning for sparser crowds at I-Drive’s popular attractions, or in the evening hours to grab dinner or enjoy the district’s nightlife and entertainment offerings.

Dinner Shows on International Drive

If you’re looking for a family-friendly way to spend an evening in Orlando, head to one of the many dinner shows situated along International Drive. This stretch of road is home to the Orlando Improv Comedy Club, Pirates Dinner Adventure, Titanic Dinner Event, The Outta Control Dinner Show and the Vegas-style Rock Dinner Show at Orlando Forum.

Ways to explore

International Drive is home to one the heaviest concentrations of restaurants, hotels, shopping destinations, theme parks, and other entertainment options in all of Orlando. In addition to nearby theme parks, such as the iconic Walt Disney World Resort, this recreational area is also home to a range of other attractions.

Popular, family-friendly options range from Madame Tussauds and Discovery Cove to The Orlando Eye observation wheel, WonderWorks Orlando, and Ripley’s Believe It or Not. Visitors can also try ax-throwing, go-karting, virtual reality experiences, and other hands-on activities.

Accessibility

The attractions along International Drive have varied accessibility offerings; reach out to specific venues for more details.

Age limits

None, though some attractions and activities will have their own age, height, and/or weight limits.

What to pack

Backpack, water bottle and snacks, sun and rain protection, phone and charger

What to wear

Wear loose and lightweight clothing and good walking shoes, and be sure to dress for the weather.

Not allowed

While the rules vary by tour and attraction, most don’t allow smoking, pets, or alcohol.

Amenities

Restaurants, shops, theme parks and tourist attractions

Address 

International Drive stretches for 11 miles (18 kilometers) southwest of downtown Orlando, running roughly parallel to Interstate 4. There are numerous points of access. To get there, you can drive, take a taxi or rideshare service, or book a tour with included transportation.

Driving

The attractions along International Drive are best explored by car; Interstate 4 offers access, as do other local routes.

Public transportation

Select local bus routes connect downtown Orlando with the attractions along International Drive. However, it may be more practical to travel between activities by car or taxi.

Best times to visit

While individual theme parks’ and attractions’ hours vary, it’s generally best to time your visit for typical daytime hours—arrive early, as there’s much to see and do.

Best days to visit

Many attractions are open throughout the week. Expect weekends and holidays to be busiest, and weekdays a quieter time to explore.

Best months to visit

If you can, avoid the summer high season in Orlando, which can be hot, humid, and crowded (and also coincides with hurricane season). Aim for autumn or spring instead.

Special events

Area theme parks, including Walt Disney World Resort, host special events and festivals throughout the year; consult attraction websites for more specifics.