Good news! Allegiant Air will fly nonstop to the Orlando-Sanford International Airport over the holidays. The nonstop flights will operate November 23 – January 5 on Thursdays and Sundays. The Orlando-Sanford Airport is located in central Florida and is close to popular attractions, beaches, and more.
Climate in Central Florida
Central Florida’s winter climate is mild and pleasant, making it a prime destination for those looking to escape colder, snow-filled winters. Daytime temperatures in November typically range from 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C), with cooler mornings and evenings. This is the start of Florida’s mild winter, so you’ll still get plenty of sunshine, but without the heat and humidity of summer. In December, temperatures continue to cool slightly, with averages ranging between 60°F and 75°F (16°C to 24°C). Daytimes remain comfortable for outdoor activities, while mornings and evenings can feel crisp, particularly in more rural or inland areas. Winter is the dry season in Central Florida, with lower chances of rain compared to the summer months. November typically sees an average of 2-3 inches of rainfall, while December and January average even less, around 1-2 inches. This makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking, golfing, or visiting theme parks without worrying about afternoon thunderstorms that are common in the summer. Humidity levels in Central Florida during the winter months are significantly lower than in the summer, making the air feel more comfortable and less sticky. Enjoy plenty of sunshine, with around 7-8 hours of daylight per day. Even in January, sunny days are common, and overcast or gray skies are rare. The overall climate in Central Florida is comfortable and inviting. Whether you’re visiting the theme parks, exploring natural springs, or relaxing at a resort, you can expect pleasant weather that’s perfect for outdoor adventures or holiday festivities. Just be prepared for the occasional cool morning or evening by bringing a light jacket or sweater.
Winter in Central Florida: A Guide to the Best Things to Do
Explore the Theme Parks
Central Florida is synonymous with world-famous theme parks, and winter is a prime time to visit. The cooler weather makes exploring these parks more enjoyable, and many offer special holiday events, decorations, and limited-time attractions.
Walt Disney World Resort
Winter at Walt Disney World is magical, with each park hosting festive holiday events. Magic Kingdom’s Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party offers parades, fireworks, and holiday treats. Over at Epcot, you can experience the International Festival of the Holidays, which features food and traditions from around the world. Each park is beautifully decorated, with Cinderella’s Castle sparkling in lights, adding to the winter wonderland atmosphere.
Universal Orlando Resort
Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure go all out for the holidays with Grinchmas and Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. At Universal, you can experience a wintery twist with the Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s and special shows like The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle. It’s a fantastic time for Harry Potter fans, as Hogsmeade is decorated with festive garlands, and the shops are filled with holiday treats and gifts.
SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando transforms into a Winter Wonderland on Ice, complete with Christmas shows, live music, and ice skating performances. The park also features the Sea of Trees, a spectacular light show where over 100 trees shimmer and dance across the lake, and visitors can meet Santa and Rudolph. The Christmas Celebration at SeaWorld offers a more relaxed theme park experience, perfect for those who enjoy festive shows and seasonal attractions.
Legoland Florida Resort
For families with younger children, Legoland Florida Resort is a perfect winter destination. Their Holidays at Legoland event includes festive shows, holiday-themed building activities, and larger-than-life Lego displays. The park itself is much less crowded during the winter months, making it easier for families to enjoy all the attractions and activities without long wait times.
Take a Scenic Nature Tour
While Central Florida is best known for its theme parks, it also offers an abundance of natural beauty. Winter is one of the best times to explore the region’s outdoor spaces, as the weather is cooler and the wildlife is active.
Crystal River Manatee Tours
One of the most unique winter experiences in Central Florida is swimming with manatees in Crystal River. These gentle giants migrate to the warm springs during the cooler months, creating the perfect opportunity to snorkel alongside them. Several tour operators offer guided manatee swims and boat tours that provide a close-up view of these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.
Wekiwa Springs State Park
Just north of Orlando, Wekiwa Springs State Park is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers hiking, canoeing, and kayaking along the Wekiva River, where you can spot a variety of wildlife, including birds, turtles, and even alligators. The crystal-clear springs maintain a comfortable temperature year-round, making it a pleasant place to take a dip even in the winter months.
Lake Louisa State Park
Located near Clermont, Lake Louisa State Park is a hidden gem for those seeking outdoor adventures. The park is perfect for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and picnicking, with scenic views of lakes and rolling hills. Winter is an excellent time to explore the park’s trails without the heat of summer, and you might even catch glimpses of local wildlife like deer and otters.
Visit Historic Downtowns and Unique Towns
Central Florida has a number of charming towns and historic downtown areas that are perfect for a leisurely winter day of shopping, dining, and sightseeing.
Winter Park
Winter Park is known for its beautiful parks, cobblestone streets, and cultural attractions. The Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour takes visitors through the town’s picturesque lakes and canals, offering stunning views of luxurious homes and lush landscapes. The town’s historic Park Avenue is lined with boutique shops, galleries, and restaurants, making it a great spot for a leisurely afternoon. Don’t miss the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, which houses the world’s largest collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany.
Mount Dora
Mount Dora is a small, scenic town known for its antique shops, art galleries, and annual festivals. In winter, the town comes alive with festive decorations and events like the Mount Dora Christmas Walk and Mount Dora New Year’s Eve Celebration. Stroll through the charming downtown, visit the local boutiques, and enjoy dining at one of the town’s cozy cafes or restaurants.
Celebration
Originally developed by Disney, the town of Celebration is known for its storybook charm and nostalgic atmosphere. During the winter months, Celebration hosts Now Snowing Nightly, a holiday event where artificial snow falls on the streets, creating a winter wonderland in Florida. Visitors can enjoy ice skating, horse-drawn carriage rides, and visits with Santa in this idyllic town.
Enjoy the Great Outdoors
Winter in Central Florida offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities, from golfing to hot air balloon rides.
Golfing
With its mild winter temperatures, Central Florida is a golfer’s paradise. Courses like Bay Hill Club & Lodge, Grand Cypress Golf Club, and Orange County National offer world-class facilities and stunning scenery. Many courses are less crowded during the winter months, making it the perfect time to play a round of golf without the summer heat.
Hot Air Balloon Rides
For a truly unforgettable winter experience, consider taking a hot air balloon ride over Central Florida’s scenic landscapes. Several companies offer sunrise balloon rides that provide breathtaking views of the area’s lakes, forests, and rolling hills. On clear winter mornings, the visibility is often excellent, allowing you to see for miles in every direction.
Airboat Rides
No trip to Central Florida is complete without an airboat ride through the Everglades or nearby wetlands. Companies like Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures and Wild Florida offer thrilling airboat tours that take you through the region’s swamps and marshes, where you can spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitats.
Celebrate the Holidays
Winter in Central Florida is filled with holiday celebrations, parades, and light displays that add to the festive spirit.
Gaylord Palms ICE!
Each year, the Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee hosts ICE!, an elaborate indoor winter wonderland made entirely of ice sculptures. Visitors can wander through themed displays, slide down ice slides, and marvel at the artistry of the sculptures. The resort also features other holiday activities, such as live shows, ice skating, and visits with Santa.
Night of a Million Lights
Hosted by Give Kids The World Village, the Night of a Million Lights event in Kissimmee is one of the most dazzling holiday light displays in Central Florida. The village is transformed into a winter wonderland with millions of sparkling lights, themed displays, and festive activities. Proceeds from the event support the village’s mission of providing vacations for children with critical illnesses and their families.
St. Augustine Nights of Lights
A bit further north but worth the drive, St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights is one of the most celebrated holiday light displays in the country. From mid-November to January, the historic district is illuminated with millions of tiny white lights, creating a magical atmosphere. Visitors can take trolley or boat tours to see the lights from different perspectives, or simply stroll through the town’s charming streets.
Winter in Central Florida offers a unique combination of warm weather, festive holiday events, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re exploring theme parks, relaxing at a resort, or enjoying nature, there’s something for everyone in this sunny winter paradise. From thrilling airboat rides to magical light displays, Central Florida makes an unforgettable winter getaway for travelers of all ages.
Book your trip
Allegiant partners with several condos, beach homes, and cabins. Book an affordable vacation when you book your flight, hotel, and car at Allegiant Air.
