Melissa Donovan
As more Americans plan to travel this summer—despite lingering inflation—many are looking for ways to enjoy their time off without breaking the bank. According to a recent WalletHub study, nearly 82% of Americans are expected to take a trip this season, but tighter budgets may push some to seek fun closer to home.
Fortunately, for residents and visitors in Central Florida, Orlando ranks among the best cities in the country for an affordable, activity-packed staycation.
WalletHub’s annual report compared 182 of the most populated cities in the U.S. across three key categories: Recreation, Food & Entertainment, and Rest & Relaxation. Each city was evaluated using 41 relevant metrics, such as the number of parks per capita, average meal costs, and the availability of wellness centers. Orlando earned the No. 2 spot overall, just behind Cincinnati, Ohio.
Orlando: A Leading Destination for Local Adventure
With a total score of 64.63, Orlando stood out for its top-ranked Food & Entertainment offerings and placed highly in other categories as well. The city’s abundance of affordable restaurants, highly rated eateries, and diverse culinary options helped drive its strong performance. Additionally, a wide selection of dessert shops—especially ice cream parlors—makes it a perfect spot to cool off during the hot Florida summer.
Orlando also scored well in recreational offerings, with a high concentration of amusement parks, water parks, arcades, and other family-friendly attractions. Its vibrant nightlife and calendar of summer festivals ensure there’s something to do for every age group and interest.
More Than Just Theme Parks
While Orlando is globally recognized for major theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando, the city also offers a range of lesser-known, budget-conscious attractions. Local parks, lakes, art galleries, and museums provide enriching experiences without the steep price tag.
For those seeking rest and rejuvenation, Orlando’s spa facilities, public pools, and wellness centers offer accessible relaxation options. Its warm climate and abundant green spaces make outdoor leisure easy and enjoyable.
Methodology Behind the Rankings
WalletHub’s rankings were developed by assessing a wide range of metrics across 182 cities, including both the 150 most populous U.S. cities and at least two of the largest cities in each state. Each metric was graded on a 100-point scale, with scores weighted and averaged to determine a city’s overall rank.
For staycationers looking to save money without sacrificing fun, Orlando provides a compelling mix of activities, affordability, and variety—solidifying its position as one of the top staycation destinations in the country.
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