Orlando is found in central Florida and is home to some of the most famous theme parks. Perhaps the most popular is Walt Disney World, comprised of smaller parks including the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom and a few other parks. Another major destination is Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, home to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. While the theme parks bring many to the city, there is plenty more to do. Shop until you drop with world-famous designers at the Mall of Millenia. Other tourist favorite museums include fun-for-all-ages at Madame Tussaud’s Orlando and the Titanic Artifact Exhibition. Unlike much of Florida, Orlando doesn’t have any real beaches for people to visit, but there are still plenty of outdoor activities available. Tourists love swimming with the dolphins and the photo-ready opportunities that Orlando offers. If you’re desperate for some beach time, head to Cocoa Beach, close to an hour away from Orlando.

Historically, Florida’s anti-marijuana stance has been quite strong, so don’t expect to smoke while visiting Orlando. Luckily, voters approved a medical marijuana program back in 2016. Those qualified to legally obtain medical marijuana cards must be Florida residents diagnosed with a qualifying medical condition, including: 

• Cancer

• Epilepsy

• Glaucoma

• HIV/AIDS

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

• Crohn’s disease

• Parkinson’s disease

• Multiple sclerosis (MS)

• Medical conditions of the same kind or class as or comparable to the others listed.

• A terminal condition diagnosed by a physician other than the qualified physician issuing the physician certification.

• Chronic nonmalignant pain caused by a qualifying medical condition or that originates from a qualifying medical condition and persists beyond the usual course of that qualifying medical condition.

For those caught with marijuana and without a medical marijuana card, Florida’s recreational use penalties are quite harsh. Anyone caught possessing 20 grams or less could be charged with a misdemeanor subject $1000 fine and up to 1-year of imprisonment. Possession, use or sale of anything heavier than 20 grams is a felony punishable from 5 to 30 years in prison.