Most people treat the airport as a place to get through. Orlando International Airport is quietly trying to change that. Its Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program has just stretched its hours, which means more time to wander the terminals beyond security even if you don’t have a plane to catch. For anyone who loves Disney and Universal, that’s a pretty fun loophole.Credit: Ed Aguila, Inside the MagicMCO is known for its theme park flavored shopping, with Disney and Universal themed stores tucked into the post security areas. Usually only ticketed passengers see them. This program opens that door to everyone else, and the updated schedule gives you far more breathing room to take it all in.The New Hours at a GlanceCredit: DisneyApproved visitors can now enter the post security terminals between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. Once you’re inside, you can shop, grab a bite, or just hang out with a loved one before their flight. The one firm rule is a deadline. All visitors have to leave by 8 p.m.That’s a big window, and it’s especially handy if you’re not trying to rush. Instead of squeezing a quick goodbye into a few minutes, you can actually spend part of your day exploring.Who Can Use the ProgramCredit: Inside The MagicThe Experience MCO Visitor Pass is meant for people who aren’t flying. Airport employees may also take part when they’re off duty. There are a few important catches. Passes are limited, and every single visit has to be approved by TSA. This isn’t a free for all, and it’s not guaranteed you’ll get a spot on the day you want.If a date is missing from the application form, that means visitor capacity has already been reached for that day. In other words, popular days can fill up, so it pays to look early.How to Apply Step by StepCredit: Orlando International Airport (MCO)You can apply online up to seven days before your planned visit. The form asks for your birthdate, gender, and full legal name exactly as it appears on a TSA approved photo ID, such as a passport or REAL ID. Getting the name to match your ID is key, because a mismatch can cause problems at the checkpoint.After you apply, TSA reviews your information and sends your approval status after midnight on the day of your visit. Approved guests receive a digital pass by email. At the checkpoint, you show that pass along with your TSA approved photo ID to the Travel Document Checker.Rules You Need to FollowVisitors have to follow all TSA security rules, including the 3-1-1 liquids rule, so leave the big water bottle at home. The pass also doesn’t allow exit and re-entry. Once you’re through, plan to stay inside the terminals until you’re ready to leave for good. If you step out for any reason, you can’t come back in.That detail matters a lot if you’re meeting someone or planning a long visit. Bring what you need, charge your phone, and decide ahead of time how long you really want to stay.Why Disney and Universal Fans Should CareHere’s the part that makes this program worth a second look. The Disney and Universal themed stores at MCO are a real draw, and this pass gives locals and travelers an exclusive chance to experience them without a flight. If you love browsing theme park merchandise, you can do it at the airport in a setting that feels like a bonus stop on your own vacation.It’s a nice option for families too. Picture dropping off loved ones who are heading home from a Disney trip, then spending a little extra time browsing shops instead of rushing back to the car. Or, if you’re a local, treating a free morning like a mini outing.Making It Work for Your Disney VacationFor a Walt Disney World trip, the program can add a little extra fun on either end. If you’re picking up or sending off friends and family, the longer window gives you time to shop and eat together instead of a hurried goodbye. It also helps with souvenir planning, since you can browse the themed stores without worrying about a boarding time.Just remember the practical limits. You need TSA approval, you have to apply ahead of time, and you can’t leave and come back, so build your plans around that. Treat it as a bonus experience, not a replacement for your real park days.Have you checked out the shops at MCO, or are you planning to try the Visitor Pass? Tell us in the comments what you’d want to browse first, and share any tips for making the most of a day at the airport. It’s always a blast at Orlando International Airport.The post Disney World Expands Beyond Resort With Free Orlando Experience appeared first on Inside the Magic.