Orlando is famous for its theme parks, but some of Central Florida’s most relaxing experiences happen far from the roller coasters. If you’ve checked out of your Orlando hotel and have an evening flight from Orlando International Airport (MCO), a visit to Winter Park could be the perfect way to spend your final afternoon.
Located north of downtown Orlando, Winter Park offers scenic lakes, tree-lined streets, boutique shopping, and one of the area’s most charming attractions: the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour.
The only challenge? Figuring out what to do with your luggage after hotel checkout.
What Is the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour?
The Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour takes visitors on a one-hour guided pontoon boat ride through the beautiful lakes and canals of Winter Park.
Along the way, passengers enjoy views of waterfront mansions, tropical vegetation, historic homes, and Florida wildlife. It’s a particularly appealing experience for couples, families, and travelers looking for something peaceful after several busy days at Disney World or Universal Orlando.
The tour departs from 312 East Morse Boulevard in Winter Park.
According to the operator’s published schedule:
- Tours depart hourly from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Adult admission is $20.
- Children’s tickets, ages 2–11, cost $10.
- Regular tours are first-come, first-served.
Unlike a full-day attraction, the boat tour can fit comfortably into an afternoon of sightseeing before a later flight.
What Can You Do in Winter Park Before Your Flight?
One of Winter Park’s biggest advantages is that you can combine the boat tour with other enjoyable activities nearby.
After your cruise, head toward Park Avenue, the city’s popular shopping and dining district.
Spend an hour browsing independent boutiques, visiting a café, or enjoying lunch at one of the area’s restaurants. The neighborhood’s pedestrian-friendly streets make it easy to enjoy a more relaxed side of Central Florida without committing to another major attraction.
For travelers who have spent their vacation surrounded by crowds, Winter Park offers a welcome change of pace.
Can You Bring Luggage on the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour?
Travelers should not assume that full-sized suitcases can be accommodated on the boat or stored at the departure location. Contact the tour operator to confirm its current baggage policy.
This creates a practical problem if you’ve already checked out of your hotel or Airbnb.
Returning to your accommodation to collect your bags after the tour may involve extra transportation and time, especially if you’re staying near Disney World, Universal Orlando, or another part of the city.
Fortunately, there’s another option.
How Bagzee Makes Your Winter Park Visit Easier
Instead of carrying suitcases around Winter Park, you can arrange for Bagzee to pick up your luggage from your Orlando hotel, resort, Airbnb, or another eligible pickup address.
Bagzee transports your bags to Orlando International Airport, where you retrieve them before completing airline check-in.
This allows you to:
- Check out of your accommodation without carrying luggage all afternoon.
- Enjoy the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour.
- Have lunch or explore Park Avenue.
- Travel directly to MCO without returning to your hotel.
For families carrying several suitcases or couples hoping to enjoy one last Florida experience, separating luggage transportation from sightseeing can make departure day significantly easier.
Remember to keep medications, identification, travel documents, and other essentials with you.
Is Winter Park Worth Visiting Before a Late MCO Flight?
Absolutely, provided you have enough time.
Winter Park is farther from MCO than attractions immediately surrounding the airport, so check traffic conditions and allow sufficient time for transportation, collecting your luggage, checking in, and airport security.
For travelers with a later evening flight, the combination of a scenic boat ride and a relaxed lunch can turn an otherwise inconvenient checkout day into one last memorable experience.
Make your last day in Orlando about enjoying Florida, not managing suitcases.
Visit Bagzee.com to arrange luggage pickup and airport delivery before your flight from MCO.