An Orlando vacation is one of the most popular amongst tourists, but it is much more than just a city tailored for theme park devotees. Orlando also has the famous International Drive which houses a huge number of attractions, shopping areas and water parks; all within a reasonable walking distance if you want a rest from driving. While many people that visit are first timers, more are returning for their second, third or more time as there is always something new to see.
As one of the most tourist centered cities in the world, Orlando has a great deal to offer including large shopping malls, restaurants of every type, night clubs, bars and many specialist shops. Of course this article can only brush the surface of what you can see and do on an Orlando vacation but there is so much more than just theme parks that it would be a shame not to mention them.
The Central Florida Zoo for instance only opened back in 1975 and was owned by the Sanford Fire Department prior to that but is now the home to over four hundred animals. It is actually a privately owned charitable group dedicated to the protection of exotic animals plus species that are native to Florida but also offers informative and child-friendly classes and events.
It is also possible to see a large collection of the works of Louis Tiffany at the Museum of American Art over in Winter Park. The famous chapel interior commissioned for the World’s Columbian Exhibition back in 1893 is also here along with many items of Tiffany jewelry, leaded glass, ornaments and clayware.
While Orlando may appear on the surface to be a town designed for the entertainment of children that could not be farther from the truth with adults equally well looked after. There is also plenty to do in the evening when you take an Orlando vacation with family shows like the Pirates adventure or for adults, Disney’s Pleasure Island and Universals city walk.
Another popular attraction is the Orlando Science Center and is in fact one of the largest buildings of its type allowing the visitor access to ten huge exhibition halls. The International Trolley and Train Museum has fourteen trains running simultaneously in mountains, wilderness and urban areas; including three waterfalls that use 12,000 gallons of water per hour.
On International Drive there is the Mercado Center which is the home to the wonderfully moving, sad and at times eerie Titanic exhibition which actually displays a number of original items from the great ship. Away from all the hustle is the wonderful Lake Eola Park in the heart of downtown; it has beautiful sidewalks in over forty acres where it is possible to spend a few peaceful hours.
No trip to Orlando would be complete without a trip to the Walt Disney World Resort which comprises of four main theme parks plus water parks; or Universal Studios resort complex which is equally as popular. You could even stay at one of the Disney Resort hotels. To find a good offer perform an online search for cheap Disney vacation packages. There is also a number of affordable Orlando hotels near Disney World if you prefer staying outside of the resort. To make the most of your Orlando vacation try to visit outside of traditional holiday periods if you want to avoid the crowds.
RSS FEED