This central Florida region attracts around 60 million visitors every year who come for the warm climate, the world-famous theme parks, the shopping malls, the golf courses and the nightlife.
It’s true: Orlando is a magical place. And it’s not just because it’s home to Walt Disney World and Universal Studios theme parks. There’s an incredible mix of fun things to do in Orlando that make it an ideal vacationing spot for not only families but young singles, baby boomers, foodies, outdoor adventurous types, luxury shoppers and international visitors. While the city was built on theme park fame, the number and variety of Orlando attractions have grown to include world-famous restaurants, high-end outlet shopping centers, theatrical performances, and amazing concert and sporting event venues.
Golfers love the challenging and historic courses throughout the city, and art-lovers enjoy the Orlando Museum of Art, the Mennello Museum of American Art as well as a number of small, funky galleries and art studios sprinkled throughout the area.
Another great feature for Orlando visitors and residents is the proximity to great beaches, with Cocoa Beach, Daytona Beach and even Tampa and St Petersburg. These are world renowned beaches only a few minutes from the Orlando area giving this central Florida location access to watersport and a great day by the beach. Port Canaveral is ranked as the world’s 2nd busiest cruise port in multi-day embarkations. The port has been in the top for years, and they’re aiming higher. Tomorrow’s Port Canaveral – will be a product of vision, making the port one of the best in the world and a popular vacation destination in its own.
Orlando is a place known for hospitality, and that extends to its many hotels, spas and services that suit every budget and taste.
Parents appreciate some of the amenities offered at the Disney-area accommodations, such as five-star fine dining restaurants, luxurious spas and serene rooftop pools. And kids love themed hotels that highlight animals, costumed characters, rock ‘n’ roll, and princesses. Hit one of the many water parks to cool down or spend an air-conditioned afternoon inside the Orlando Science Center or the Orlando Fire Museum.
One of the coolest spots in town – quite literally – is ICEBAR Orlando, which features a below-freezing room with a bar entirely carved from ice and a full menu and dance floor in the warmer adjacent room.
Craft beer enthusiasts will love trying the organic beers at Orlando Brewing or special-batch brews at one of the dozens of breweries and taprooms, many of which also have excellent menus offering everything from wings to vegan dishes to fancy oysters and sustainable seafood dishes.
Orlando has several parks and lakes that are great for relaxing, exercise and adventure. Rent a paddleboard or paddleboat, soar over the city in a hot air balloon, picnic under an old oak, spot dolphins on a boating day trip, swim with manatees and pet a sloth at the Exotic Animal Experience. There are several watersports centers if you’re looking to try waterskiing or jet skiing, or for an even bigger thrill, try parasailing or sky diving.
There’s no limit to the many adventures and exciting times that await in Orlando, a city that’s inspired by dreams and wonder.
