Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Orlando, Florida, United States

Orlando, United States, Orlando, Local Insights & Practical Info, Common Scams & How to Avoid Them

Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Orlando, Florida, United States

1. Magic Kingdom Counterfeit Merchandise

Beware of fake merchandise sold around Magic Kingdom. Look for the authentic Disney logo and hologram.
  • Authentic Logo: Official merchandise will always have the proper Disney logo.
  • Hologram Sticker: Real merchandise will come with a hologram sticker indicating it's authentic.
  • Price Check: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.

2. Universal Studios Rides Scam

Avoid line-jumping scams at Universal Studios. Only use official Universal Studios queue lines.
  • Official Queue Line: Universal Studios has a specific queue line for each ride.
  • Ride Staff: Universal Studios staff will not ask you to leave the line.
  • No Money Required: You should never be asked for money to skip lines at Universal Studios.

3. Downtown Disney Overpriced Food

Watch out for overpriced food in Downtown Disney. Eat at official Disney restaurants instead.
  • Official Restaurant: Downtown Disney has several official Disney restaurants.
  • Price Comparison: Compare prices between Downtown Disney and surrounding areas.
  • Local Recommendations: Ask locals or other travelers for recommendations on where to eat in the area.

4. I-Drive 360 Overcharging

Be cautious of overpriced services and food at I-Drive 360 attractions.
  • Check Prices: Always check prices before agreeing to any services or food purchases.
  • Local Reviews: Read reviews from local visitors for insight on pricing and quality.
  • Bargain Carefully: Bargain carefully if you feel a service or food item is overpriced.

5. CityWalk Taxi Scam

Avoid taxi scams at Universal CityWalk. Use authorized taxis or the official app for transportation.
  • Authorized Taxis: Universal CityWalk has several authorized taxi services.
  • Official App: Use the official Universal Orlando Resort app for transportation requests.
  • Avoid Unmarked Cars: Avoid taxis that do not have proper identification or uniforms.

6. International Drive Timeshare Scam

Be wary of high-pressure timeshare presentations on International Drive.
  • Know Your Rights: You are not obligated to attend a timeshare presentation.
  • Avoid High-Pressure Tactics: Do not engage with overly pushy sales representatives.
  • Research Beforehand: Research timeshare companies before agreeing to a presentation.

7. Orlando Premium Outlets Overpriced Items

Watch out for overpriced items at Orlando Premium Outlets. Compare prices with other stores and online retailers.
  • Compare Prices: Always compare prices between different stores and online.
  • Legitimate Retailer: Ensure the store is a legitimate retailer.
  • Store Reputation: Research the reputation of the store before shopping.

8. Walt Disney World Ticket Scam

Avoid ticket scams at Walt Disney World. Only purchase tickets from authorized vendors.
  • Authorized Vendors: Walt Disney World has several authorized ticket vendors.
  • Official Website: Purchase tickets directly from the official Walt Disney World website.
  • Check Expiration Dates: Ensure tickets have valid expiration dates and are not counterfeit.

9. Gatorland Phony Gators

Be cautious of phony gator shows at Gatorland. Stick to official shows and exhibits.
  • Official Shows: Gatorland has several official gator shows.
  • Gator Expertise: Ensure the handlers have experience with gators.
  • Proper Treatment: Make sure the gators are treated properly and humanely.

10. Kissimmee Rental Car Scam

Avoid rental car scams in Kissimmee. Only rent from reputable companies and read contracts thoroughly.
  • Reputable Companies: Rent from established and well-reviewed rental car companies.
  • Contract Review: Thoroughly read the contract to avoid hidden fees or charges.
  • Insurance Coverage: Understand your insurance coverage before renting a car.

11. Universal Studios Ticket Reseller Scam

Avoid ticket resellers at Universal Studios. Only purchase tickets from authorized vendors.
  • Authorized Vendors: Universal Studios has several authorized ticket vendors.
  • Official Website: Purchase tickets directly from the official Universal Studios website.
  • Check Expiration Dates: Ensure tickets have valid expiration dates and are not counterfeit.

12. Beach Hotel Room Scam

Avoid room scams at Cocoa Beach hotels. Book through reputable online travel agencies.
  • Reputable Agencies: Book through well-established and trusted online travel agencies.
  • Read Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests to ensure a positive experience.
  • Check Amenities: Ensure the hotel offers the amenities you require.

13. I-Drive Lounge Cover Charge Scam

Avoid lounge cover charge scams on International Drive. Stick to reputable lounges and ask about hidden fees.
  • Reputable Lounges: Choose lounges with a good reputation and positive reviews.
  • Ask About Fees: Always ask about any hidden fees or cover charges before entering.
  • Check Hours: Ensure the lounge is open during your desired visit time.

14. Orlando Airport Transportation Scam

Avoid transportation scams at Orlando International Airport. Use authorized taxis or the official airport app for transportation.
  • Authorized Taxis: Orlando International Airport has several authorized taxi services.
  • Official App: Use the official Orlando International Airport app for transportation requests.
  • Avoid Unmarked Cars: Avoid taxis that do not have proper identification or uniforms.

15. Seaworld Ticket Reseller Scam

Avoid ticket resellers at SeaWorld. Only purchase tickets from authorized vendors.
  • Authorized Vendors: SeaWorld has several authorized ticket vendors.
  • Official Website: Purchase tickets directly from the official SeaWorld website.
  • Check Expiration Dates: Ensure tickets have valid expiration dates and are not counterfeit.