Travel and Accommodations

Travel to Orlando

We look forward to welcoming you to ISSW 36 at the University of Central Florida (UCF) in Orlando, Florida, USA. Orlando is one of the most accessible destinations in the United States, offering extensive domestic and international air service, a wide range of lodging options, and numerous attractions for attendees and accompanying guests.

International Travelers

Most international visitors traveling to the United States for conference attendance will require either a visitor visa (typically a B-1 Business Visitor Visa) or may be eligible to travel under the Visa Waiver Program, depending on nationality. The U.S. Department of State recommends applying for visas well in advance of travel due to varying appointment wait times.

Helpful resources:

• U.S. Department of State Visa Information
• Visitor Visa (B-1/B-2) Information
• Online Visa Application (DS-160)

Attendees requiring invitation letters for visa purposes will be able to request documentation from the ISSW 36 organizing committee following conference registration.

Things To Do in Orlando

Whether you plan to extend your stay before or after the conference, Orlando offers a wide variety of attractions and activities

Theme Parks

• Walt Disney World Resort
• Universal Orlando Resort
• SeaWorld Orlando
• ICON Park

Nature and Outdoor Activities

• Wekiwa Springs State Park
• Blue Spring State Park
• Lake Eola Park (Downtown Orlando)
• Orlando Wetlands Park
• Beaches
  • Daytona, Cocoa, and New Smyrna

Aerospace Attractions

• Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex (approximately one hour from Orlando)
• Cape Canaveral Space Force Station launch viewing opportunities

Dining and Entertainment

World-Famous Tourist Venues

• International Drive
• Disney Springs
• Universal CityWalk

Experience Local Orlando

Milk District

Centered around the historic T.G. Lee Dairy property, The Milk District is one of Orlando’s trendiest neighborhoods and a hub for local nightlife and entertainment, with popular attractions including:

• Locally owned restaurants and food halls
• Craft breweries and beer gardens
• Live music venues
• Arcade bars and entertainment venues
• Weekly community events and markets

The district offers a distinctly local Orlando experience that is especially popular with graduate students, young professionals, and the city’s creative community.

Mills 50

Located just north of downtown, the Mills 50 District is one of Orlando’s most eclectic and diverse neighborhoods. Known for its vibrant street art, independent businesses, and outstanding Asian cuisine, Mills 50 has become a favorite destination for both locals and visitors, with highlights including:

• Vietnamese, Filipino, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese restaurants
• Craft cocktail bars and local breweries
• Outdoor murals and public art
• Live music venues and independent coffee shops
• Easy access to nearby Loch Haven Cultural Park, home to several museums and theaters

Winter Park

Just north of Orlando, Winter Park is known for its walkable downtown, upscale dining, boutique shopping, and scenic parks. Attractions include:

• Great strolls along Park Avenue
• Local outdoor dining and cafés
• The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art
• The Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour through the area’s lakes and canals
• Local art galleries and farmers markets

Downtown Orlando

Downtown Orlando offers a mix of business, entertainment, and cultural attractions, including:

• Lake Eola Park and its iconic swan boats
• Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
• Kia Center (home of the Orlando Magic (NBA))
• Inter.Co Stadium (home of the Orlando City Lions (MLS) and Orlando Pride (NWSL))