The Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) is a renowned public place in Central Florida. It is currently the third largest convention center in the United States, with an impressive 7 million square feet of space and 2.1 million square feet of exhibition space. This expansive center is situated on the south end of International Drive, which is Orlando's most popular tourist destination. The OCCC has a very convenient central location and there are numerous budget-friendly hotels within walking distance.
In addition, there are a plethora of attractions nearby to keep event attendees entertained during their free time. It's truly an ideal spot for a convention or sporting event in Florida. The Orange County Convention Center is easily accessible through marked crosswalks and pedestrian bridges. Numerous highways, including State Highway 528 and Interstate 4, encircle the Orange County Convention Center and provide guests with direct routes to downtown. The Orange County Convention Center consists of two buildings connected by a pedestrian walkway known as an aerial bridge.
The Orange County Convention Center has several LED signs with messages along International Drive, State Road 528, Universal and Westwood Boulevards and Convention Way. The grand opening took place on February 26th with the Boston Pops Orchestra serenading the public. Phase V of the facility began in the summer of 2000, after Reed Exhibitions, which organizes numerous major conventions, agreed to organize 42 conventions in Orlando. The area's public bus system, LYNX, has routes that go to the Orange County Convention Center with connections to Orlando International Airport and downtown Orlando. Bicycle taxis are a convenient way to travel between the convention center and the surrounding restaurants and attractions.
The convention center was established due to a law passed by the state legislature in 1977 that allowed state counties to collect a tourism development tax, in addition to the current state sales tax on hotel room stays. Bicycle taxis are common in the convention center district and can usually be found outside of convention center buildings and in parking lots. Bicycle taxis are available to transport visitors to the various esplanades and four taxi companies are approved to pick up at the convention center. In April 1978, Orange County voters approved a 2% tax on tourism development with plans to use the additional revenues to build a convention center. The Orange County Convention Center is an ideal destination for conventions, sporting events, or any other large gathering due to its advantageous location and abundance of nearby attractions.
With its easy access from highways and public transportation, it's no wonder why this is one of the most sought-after destinations in Central Florida.
