My boyfriend, myself, and another couple are planning a trip to orlando, fl. We will be there for a week sunday - sunday mid july. Any tips or things not to miss? restaurants ? Thanks for any help!

Are you planning on going to Disney World or the Universal Parks, or are you just visiting Orlando?? It would help to know your plans and where you're staying.

We are going only to Universal Studios for theme parks . Any suggestions for other things to do?

Stay at one of the Universal Studio Hotels (Hard Rock, Portofino Bay, and Pacific Royale) because you don't have to wait in line for the rides. You go to a special line.

The higher cost of the hotel is so worth the short line pass.

Try and hit the parks early in the morning and late at night to avoid the heat.

Hand out by the pools or order an in room movie or go to the movies between 12Noon and 4PM daily.

You don't know hot until you've experienced Orlando in July.

Don't sweat the daily probable thunderstorms. They are in and out pretty quick and make things a steam bath.

Get the multi day pass. It is a much better deal than Disney's multi day pass.

I've been to Universal twice in July. It's HOT. I agree with staying at one of the on site hotels. Get to the parks early--go back to the hotel for a swim--go back to the parks in the evening. The on site hotels not only give you express access, but they are walking distance from the parks. For loads of info, go to www.disboards.com and scroll to the Universal forums.

I agree with the others that you should stay on-site at one of the Universal hotels. We have stayed at all three and have enjoyed them all. Pick the theme and/or price you like and stay on-site. The heat of July can be unbearable. We were there last year in July. We stayed two nights at Disney and three nights at Universal. I have to say that the front of the line access at Universal really helps beat the heat. It is the best perk ever!

I agree that you should get to the parks early. Break for a nice lunch, go back to the resort and go in the pool or take a nap and then back to the parks in the evening. Being able to walk to the parks (or take the water taxi) is the best. We have enjoyed Universal several times.

As schmerl said - go the disboards.com and scroll to the Universal forums. Lots of info on getting discounts, etc.

With regard to restaurants, we have enjoyed Emeril's and Tchoup Chop, Margaritaville, Hard Rock Cafe and Mythos (in Islands of Adventure). Lots of good restaurants and fun things to do.

Enjoy your trip!

Another restaurant we enjoy is Mama Dellas at Portofino. It is right where the water taxis come in. Italian, "Mama" walks around, strolling musicians, nice but you can still be casual.

if going universal i agree MUST stay on site, going to the head of line for rides is great. right now hard rock including 2 park tix with room if you stay 4 or more nights.check their website. if you don't do parks, check out JW Marriott & ritz carlton at grande lakes.