Orlando, Florida, is known for its theme parks, but it’s also one of the country’s popular golf vacation destinations. With championship courses, year-round golfing opportunities, and numerous resorts, Central Florida attracts golfers traveling for weekend getaways, corporate outings, and extended vacations.
But what happens when your Orlando hotel checkout is at 11 a.m., your flight isn’t until evening, and you’d like to squeeze in one more round?
Rather than heading straight to Orlando International Airport (MCO), consider enjoying a final golf outing while arranging for your luggage to be transported separately.
Why Orlando Is Ideal for a Final Round of Golf
One advantage of golfing in Orlando is the number of courses within relatively easy reach of MCO.
Travelers staying around Lake Nona, International Drive, or southeastern Orlando may be able to schedule a morning tee time and still reach the airport comfortably for an evening flight.
The key is selecting a course that doesn’t require a long drive in the wrong direction.
Three Golf Courses to Consider Near MCO
1. Eagle Creek Golf Club
Located southeast of Orlando International Airport, Eagle Creek Golf Club features an 18-hole, par-73 championship course designed by Ron Garl and Howard Swan.
The course features Scottish-inspired design elements, extensive bunkering, and a clubhouse with dining facilities.
Its proximity to MCO makes it an appealing option for travelers planning a final round before departure.
Golfers should allow roughly four to five hours for a full round, depending on course conditions and pace of play.
2. Ventura Country Club
Ventura Country Club is located approximately six miles north of Orlando International Airport.
This semi-private course welcomes visiting golfers and features 18 holes, a driving range, and an on-site restaurant.
For travelers who want to avoid crossing the entire Orlando metropolitan area before a flight, Ventura’s airport proximity can be particularly convenient.
It’s also worth considering for golfers who prefer a relaxed final outing rather than a full day at a destination golf resort.
3. Shingle Creek Golf Club
Located near International Drive, Shingle Creek Golf Club offers a championship-style golf experience in one of Orlando’s major tourism districts.
It’s a particularly convenient option for travelers staying near the Orange County Convention Center or nearby resorts.
Although it’s farther from the airport than Eagle Creek or Ventura, its location can work well for travelers with later flights who want a final resort-style golf experience.
What Should You Do With Your Luggage While Golfing?
Travelers checking out of Orlando hotels often face a familiar problem: their flight leaves hours after they need to vacate their room.
For golfers, the situation can be even more complicated.
Between clothing, shoes, overnight bags, and potentially golf clubs, managing belongings can take up considerable space in a rental car or rideshare vehicle.
Some hotels will hold luggage after checkout, but retrieving it requires returning to the property before heading to MCO.
Instead, travelers can arrange luggage pickup through Bagzee.
How Bagzee Helps Golf Travelers Enjoy Their Last Day
Bagzee provides luggage pickup and airport delivery services throughout its supported Orlando service area.
Rather than returning to your hotel after golfing, you can arrange for your suitcases to be transported to MCO.
Here’s how it works:
- Schedule your luggage pickup. Arrange pickup from your Orlando hotel, resort, or vacation rental.
- Head to the golf course. Enjoy your final round while Bagzee transports your eligible luggage toward MCO.
- Retrieve your bags at the airport. Collect them at the designated pre-security airport storage location before checking in for your flight.
Travelers bringing golf clubs should confirm whether Bagzee can accommodate oversized golf travel bags before booking.
This approach can be especially convenient for groups traveling together, allowing everyone to focus on their plans instead of coordinating multiple suitcases.
How Much Time Should You Allow Before Your MCO Flight?
Playing golf before a flight requires careful scheduling.
An 18-hole round can take four hours or longer, particularly during busy periods.
You’ll also need time for transportation, retrieving your luggage, airline check-in, and airport security.
If you’re flying domestically, aim to arrive at MCO at least two hours before departure, or earlier if recommended by your airline. International travelers should generally allow at least three hours.
If your flight leaves in the early afternoon, a full round may not be practical. Consider a driving range session or nine holes instead.
Enjoy One Last Round Without the Luggage Hassle
Whether you’re visiting Orlando for a golf vacation, business conference, or weekend getaway, there’s no reason your final morning has to revolve entirely around hotel checkout.
With golf courses near MCO and convenient luggage transportation options, you can make better use of the time before your departure.
Instead of spending hours waiting at the airport, consider finishing your Orlando trip with one last round.
Traveling through MCO? Visit Bagzee Orlando to explore luggage pickup and airport delivery options for your next golf getaway.