Orlando & Memphis Multi & Twin Centre Holidays

For Orlando and Memphis multi-centre holidays, a good time to plan your trip is during the shoulder seasons. Orlando has its peak tourist influx during the summer months, with temperatures soaring to highs of around 33°C, so to avoid the intense heat and humidity, it could be a good idea to visit between March and May or from September to November, where temperatures range from a comfortable 18°C to 28°C.

As for Memphis, the spring and autumn seasons experience mild temperatures, typically ranging from 15°C to 25°C, creating a pleasant setting for strolling around and enjoying the vibrant music scene.

Orlando and Memphis are both in the Central Time Zone of the US, which puts them 6 hours behind the UK. Note that during Daylight Saving Time, the time difference reduces to 5 hours.

If you're traveling from the UK, your journey will typically start from major airports such as London Heathrow Airport (LHR), London Gatwick Airport (LGW), or Manchester Airport (MAN), which all have plenty of direct flights to the US.

In the US, your main choices for airports would be Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Memphis International Airport (MEM).

You can plan your holiday well ahead of time, up to 36 months in advance to be exact. This provides you with the opportunity to reserve your trip and secure your booking with an initial low deposit, before spreading out the remainder of the cost through monthly instalments.

The easiest way to travel between your twin-centres is by air. Both cities are served by major airports with regular direct flights connecting them. The flight usually takes somewhere between 2 to 2.5 hours, and major airlines provide frequent direct routes between Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Memphis International Airport (MEM), making it a relatively easy trip.

Memphis is famous for its rich cultural and musical heritage, and there are some iconic attractions that you should add to your list. 

Be sure to visit Graceland, the iconic former home of world-famous Rock ‘n’ Roll King Elvis Presley, which gives an intimate glimpse into the life of the legendary musician. The National Civil Rights Museum is another essential stop, situated at the site of Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination, giving a powerful insight into the civil rights movement. 

The vibrant and historic Beale Street is a hub of live music, delicious Southern foods, as well as lively nightlife, providing a special, quintessential Memphis experience. 

A trip to the Stax Museum of American Soul Music is great if you’re interested in learning more about the history of soul music, with memorabilia and exhibits that pay homage to the genre's influential artists. 

Finally, take a walk or a riverboat down the Mississippi Riverfront to enjoy the scenic views and soak up the atmosphere.

There’s plenty for families to see and do as part of Memphis twin-centres. Enjoy a visit to the Children's Museum of Memphis, an interactive space designed to engage young minds through various exhibits and hands-on activities. The Pink Palace Family of Museums is another great option, featuring a science museum, planetarium, and an IMAX theatre that’s both fun and educational.

Families can also spend some quality time together at Shelby Farms Park, where you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and enjoying a picnic amidst the scenic natural surroundings.

Lastly, the Memphis Botanic Garden is a peaceful escape where you can enjoy beautiful gardens, take walks along nature trails, and participate in family-oriented events within a serene botanical setting.

Memphis hosts a whole array of events and festivals, so you might want to consider planning your trip to coincide with some of the festivities. 

The Beale Street Music Festival is held during the first weekend of May as part of the Memphis in May International Festival, and brings in music enthusiasts from around the world, featuring a diverse line-up of renowned artists across various genres. 

The Memphis in May International Festival itself is a month-long celebration that celebrates the city's cultural diversity, incorporating events such as the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest and the Great American River Run. 

The Memphis Music and Heritage Festival, taking place over Labour Day weekend, celebrates the city's musical legacy with live performances, local artisans, and authentic Southern cuisine, giving a great opportunity to enjoy an immersive experience into Memphis's rich cultural tapestry. 
 

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience at the theme parks in Orlando, consider arriving early at the parks, even before the official opening time. This can give you a chance to enjoy some of the popular attractions without the long wait times that can occur later in the day.

Utilising the fast pass or express pass options, if available, can also significantly reduce your time spent waiting in long queues, meaning you can maximise your time and experience more of the rides and attractions.

Planning your visit during weekdays (preferably outside of school holidays and peak holiday seasons) can also help to beat the crowds. It can also be useful to download the official theme park app, as they often provide real-time updates on ride wait times, show schedules, and other essential information

For Orlando twin-centres, your choice of accommodation will largely depend on your preferences, budget, and how close to the action you want to be.

If your priority is to be in close proximity to the major theme parks, accommodations in the Lake Buena Vista area provide convenient access to Walt Disney World Resort and other popular attractions, making it an ideal choice for families and Disney enthusiasts. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a vibrant and bustling atmosphere, you might prefer the International Drive area, known for its array of hotels, restaurants, and entertainment options. 

The Downtown Orlando area is great if you’re interested in exploring the city's cultural and culinary scene, with its eclectic mix of museums, art galleries, and restaurants, making it ideal for those seeking a more urban and cultural experience. 

The Kissimmee area, also located close to the major theme parks, has a good blend of budget-friendly accommodations, holiday rentals, plus a range of family-friendly activities, making it suitable for budget-conscious travelers and families looking for something comfy and close to the adventure. 

Although Orlando may be most famous for its theme parks, it also has some interesting local experiences that aren’t always talked about. 

The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art is a lesser-known gem, and houses the most extensive collection of works by renowned artist Louis Comfort Tiffany, including his iconic stained glass pieces and exquisite art nouveau jewellery. 

The East End Market, a community gathering space, gives a unique shopping and dining experience, featuring local artisans, specialty food vendors, and organic produce, making it great for those interested in exploring the city's local flavours whilst supporting small businesses. 

For a peaceful natural retreat, the Harry P. Leu Gardens is a stunning botanical oasis, featuring a vast array of plant species, serene pathways, and beautiful gardens, providing a much-welcome tranquil escape from the bustling tourist areas. 

Finally, the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey is an interesting educational and immersive experience, allowing visitors to learn about the conservation efforts of various bird species and to observe these magnificent creatures up close.