Not Just Mickey Mouse – Visiting Orlando
Orlando, Florida may be close to Disney World, one of the most famous theme parks in the world, but Orlando is about much more than just Mickey Mouse and his friends. When you visit Florida, you get to enjoy stunning natural beauty as well as a vibrant downtown. Stay at one of the many fabulous Orlando vacation resorts or Westgate resorts and you can experience the unique mix of down-home and urban that Orlando has to offer.
Orlando could take a lifetime to discover, but if you are short on time, these attractions are always sure to please:
1) Universal Florida. The other major theme park in this part of Florida boasts an Islands of Adventure theme park, which has a 10-acre Seuss Landing, designed just for young kids. Designed around the books of Dr. Seuss, the park has it all: Seuss characters, The Cat in the Hat ride, One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish ride, and much, much more. For older kids, Universal’s The Hulk and Dueling Dragon coasters, and The Spiderman 3-D simulator experience are sure to offer chills and thrills.
2) Discovery Cove. Discovery Cove is a sister park to SeaWorld Orlando as well as simulation of a Caribbean island. Here you can snorkel at the Coral Reef alongside colorful fish and harmless giant stingrays. The river float allows you to splash and swim under a waterfall as well as through the aviary. Discovery Cove also has a remarkably un-crowded white sand beach. The best part of the park is definitely the Swim With Dolphins exhibit. Discovery Cove is on the expensive side, but the cost covers everything, including drinks and meals, so once you pay up you can explore to your heart’s content.
3) Downtown Orlando. The downtown core has much to offer, including skyscrapers, entertainment, shops, sidewalk cafes, and restaurants. Lake Eola Park in the downtown area boasts the Lake Eola Fountain and the Walt Disney Amphitheater. Heritage Square in the downtown area is home to the Orange County Regional History Center and the Orlando Public Library. The Boheme restaurant, the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre, and the Amway Arena – home of the Orlando Magic NBA Basketball team and venue for many big concerts – are all downtown as well.
4) The Orlando Arts and Culture District. The area near Lock Haven Park features the Orlando Shakespeare Theater, the Orlando Museum of Art, the Orlando Science Center, the Orlando Repertory Theatre, and the Orlando Fire Museum.
5) Harry P. Leu Gardens. This historic plantation and botanical garden offers walking trails and a huge array of plants and flowers to admire. If there is a plant sale on while you visit, you can gain free admission to the gardens – and you can pick up some unique plants for your own garden. Admission is also free every Monday before noon. Many evenings in the summer, you can catch wonderful outdoor Jazz concerts at the Leu Gardens.
6) Park Avenue and Historic Winter Park. Famous for its shady brick streets, this area of Orlando boasts the Rollins College, the Morse Museum of American Fine Art, unique shops and sidewalk cafes. This is easily the most romantic area of the city and well worth visiting.