Orlando Travel News – December 2025
Orlando Travel News – December 2025
Orlando is packed this December. Airports are crowded, theme parks are running nonstop holiday events, and new transportation updates are shaping travel plans. If you're flying soon or planning a December getaway, here’s everything you need to know now.
1. Orlando is one of the busiest holiday destinations in the U.S.
Orlando remains at the top of America’s most popular cities for winter tourism. With over 75 million visitors annually, the city is running at full steam this holiday season. Travelers are arriving for warm weather, theme parks, and seasonal events that draw huge crowds from late November through December.
If you’re visiting this month, expect higher prices, heavier traffic, and very limited last-minute availability.
2. Orlando International Airport (MCO) – What’s happening now
2.1 Heavy holiday traffic
MCO is experiencing one of its busiest seasons. Peak days this month exceed 170,000 passengers. Long lines at TSA, backed-up rental car areas, and crowded terminals are the norm.
2.2 Recent flight delays
A combination of national issues caused disruptions through late November and early December:
- Air-traffic staffing pressure during the government shutdown
- An Airbus A320 software glitch causing widespread delays
Although operations are improving, delays can still pop up with little warning.
2.3 Gate Link tram replacement project
MCO has launched a major multi-year project to upgrade its tram system. Work begins early December and runs into 2027. This affects travel between terminals.
- Expect slower tram service during the day
- Shuttle buses replacing trams overnight
- Temporary routing changes during construction phases
2.4 Best practices for December flyers
- Arrive 2–3 hours before domestic departures
- Arrive 3–4 hours before international flights
- Take morning flights when possible
- Track your flight and gate changes in real time
3. Theme park updates – December 2025
3.1 Universal Orlando
Hogwarts Express is closed on December 3 for a one-day refurbishment. It reopens the next day. This affects park-to-park movement inside the Wizarding World.
What to do if you're visiting on December 3
- Use the main entrances to switch between parks
- Visit key Wizarding World attractions earlier in the day
- Check the Universal app for wait times and updates
3.2 Walt Disney World and other attractions
Disney is running full holiday programming across all parks—fireworks, parades, live shows, and extended hours. Expect packed evenings, limited same-day special-event tickets, and heavy parking demand.
SeaWorld, ICON Park, and other local attractions also feature seasonal markets, Christmas shows, and large-scale light displays.
4. December flight prices and deals
Some airlines are advertising holiday sales, but December flights to Orlando remain expensive—especially between December 20 and January 1. Most actual discounts apply to early-January or February travel.
If you haven’t booked yet, check mid-week travel dates or red-eye options for the best fares.
5. Orlando city holiday events
Outside the theme parks, Downtown Orlando has a strong December schedule: tree lightings, holiday concerts, artisan markets, food stalls and family nights around Lake Eola Park.
These are good options if you want festive events without theme-park crowds.
6. What this means for travelers
6.1 If you're flying soon
- Arrive early and expect lines
- Leave time for possible tram detours at MCO
- Avoid tight connections—choose longer layovers
6.2 If you're visiting theme parks
- Hogwarts Express closed on December 3
- Evening events at Disney will be extremely crowded
- Use Genie+, Lightning Lane or Express Pass to save time
6.3 If you're still planning your trip
- Book soon—December availability is limited
- Compare rideshare vs. pre-booked airport transfers
- If flexible, consider January for lower costs
7. Quick FAQ: Orlando Travel News Today
Is December 2025 a good time to visit Orlando?
Yes, as long as you’re ready for heavy crowds. Weather is cooler, theme parks are festive, and events are top-tier.
Is MCO facing delays?
Yes. While improving, delays still occur due to earlier nationwide issues and high December traffic.
What construction is happening?
The Gate Link tram system is being replaced. Expect slower terminal transfers.
Are any major rides closed?
The Hogwarts Express at Universal is closed December 3. Other closures are minor.
Are December flights expensive?
Yes. Most sales apply to January and February instead of holiday dates.
Orlando in December 2025 is lively, festive and full of holiday energy. With the right planning and awareness of current updates, you can enjoy a smooth and memorable visit.
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