Orlando is located in Orange County, northeast of Tampa. It lies between Daytona Beach and Winter Haven near Lake Apopka. Situated in the middle of Florida's lakes region, Orlando has more than 50 lakes within its city limits. The city is intersected by Interstate 4 and Highway 408. Orlando is served by LYNX - Central Florida Regional Transportation Authority and Orlando International Airport.

The first settlers came to the area in 1837. The town was named after Orlando Reeves, a pioneer who died during a battle with Indians.

Downtown Orlando's "Cultural Corridor" is home to several museums and the Orlando Philharmonic. Florida State, the University of Florida and Florida Institute of Technology are among more than a dozen colleges. A tourist destination, Orlando boasts dozens of attractions and theme parks, including Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios and Discovery Cove, where visitors can play and swim with dolphins.

Orlando is part of the Orlando, Florida metro area.