Introduction
Located in Central Florida, Orlando boasts sunshine, picturesque views, vibrant culture, and a growing list of attractions that make it an ideal destination for travelers. Whether you plan to stay a few days or spend a week or longer, there is plenty to see and do in this captivating city.
From exploring world-renowned theme parks to discovering lush natural beauty at one of the many nature preserves and gardens, Orlando entertains every kind of traveler, from thrill seekers to nature lovers. With stunning attractions like Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley, Universal’s Volcano Bay water park, Walt Disney World Resort, and year-round mild weather, Orlando welcomed approximately 65 million visitors in 2019. However, those looking for fine dining and live entertainment need to look no further than CityWalk at Universal Orlando, where family-friendly fun awaits!
Additional popular activities include:
- sky diving over some of the state’s most beautiful coastlines;
- catching a performance at Cirque du Soleil;
- golfing on one of over 180 courses;
- and take in breathtaking sunsets as they cruise around Lake Ivanhoe with U-Drive Boat Rentals.
No matter what adventure you’re after, you will find something to enjoy during your stay in Orlando. Plan your trip today!
Theme Parks
Orlando, Florida, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. With its many theme parks, it’s no wonder why it’s such a popular destination. From Disney World to Universal Studios, this bustling city has many theme parks to explore.
We will take a look at some of the most popular theme parks in Orlando and what you might expect from each one:
Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World Resort is the most visited theme park in the world and is located in the heart of sunny Central Florida. It has four major theme parks, two water parks, numerous shopping and dining options, an entertainment-filled downtown area called Disney Springs, and outdoor activities, including canoeing and wildlife exploring. Walt Disney World Resort can be experienced over a single-day visit or enjoyed over several days.
The Magic Kingdom is the main attraction at Walt Disney World. This park houses beloved attractions like Peter Pan’s Flight, Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Splash Mountain, and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. Dining spots are scattered throughout the land with favorites such as Be Our Guest for breakfast, lunch, and dinner or 50’s Prime Time Café for a family-style mealtime experience set in a retro kitchen atmosphere.
Epcot houses 11 pavilions around its famous central lake – Future World and World Showcase – both offer exciting attractions from thrillers to music shows! To explore cultural offerings from 11 countries worldwide while tasting unique cuisines in each pavilion. Don’t forget to get your passport stamped so you can bring home proof of your travels worldwide!
Hollywood Studios brings movie magic alive with live stage shows featuring characters from popular Disney films such as Toy Story Mania or Lights Motor Adventure! Those looking for thrills can ride Star Tours – The Adventures Continue or Rock’ n’ Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith.
Try daring water slides at one of the two waterparks included with resort admission: Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon – each full of familiar sights from some of Disney’s favorite films like Finding Nemo and Zootopia. Whether you choose slides large or small, there is plenty to explore!
Whatever type of adventure you are looking for, there is something to do at every age level just waiting to be discovered at Walt Disney World Resort!
Universal Orlando Resort
Universal Orlando Resort is a unique theme park experience located in the heart of Orlando, Florida. It features two theme parks – Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure – an entertainment complex, water park, and shopping and dining district.
Universal Studios Florida offers rides and experiences based on popular movies and television shows. At the same time, Islands of Adventure is focused on thrilling rides for the whole family.
Visitors to the Universal Orlando Resort can access many exclusive attractions that can’t be found anywhere else. These include Leonardo da Vinci’s Secret Workshop (a wax museum in Universal Studios), The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (an immersive experience at Islands of Adventure), and The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man (a motion-based simulated ride). Additionally, guests can enjoy live performances. Character encounters with movie favorites like Shrek and SpongeBob SquarePants and fun interactive attractions like MuppetVision 3D and Despicable Me Minion Mayhem.
The resort also boasts numerous restaurants, nightclubs, shopping opportunities, exciting shows, and other attractions, making it an ideal destination for any family vacation or holiday getaway!
SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando is a world-renowned marine park located south of downtown Orlando, Florida. It was founded in 1973. This 140-acre park offers visitors a unique combination of thrilling rides, animal shows, and attractions and is the home to several endangered species.
SeaWorld creates unique experiences to educate people about the importance of the ocean and its inhabitants – from dolphins and sea lions to whales and sharks – and take steps to protect their future. It offers extraordinary ways for guests to interact with these fantastic creatures, including diving, swimming, and riding through their underwater adventures. From roller coaster rides that plunge you into the depths below or up into the sky around them to up-close encounters with playful sea lions or one-of-a-kind shows with whales performing breathtaking acrobatics — SeaWorld Orlando has something for everyone!
The park’s Shark Encounter allows visitors to crawl along the bottom of a 200,000-gallon aquarium in search of over 40 species of sharks — but don’t worry — shark-proof cages are provided! Orca Encounter is another popular interactive experience here at SeaWorld, where visitors can explore a deeper understanding of killer whales by learning about their anatomy, behaviors, and overall caretaking.
In addition to all its marine life activities, SeaWorld also features top thrill rides like:
- Manta sends riders soaring through loops and turns on an 85-foot tall coaster ride inspired by manta rays.
- Turtle Trek takes riders deep inside a 3D 360 dome theater where sea turtles swim around them.
- Journey To Atlantis for an adventurous water ride into unknown secrets beneath ancient ruins.
- Mako Roller Coaster allows visitors to experience heart-pounding accelerations at 73 mph on a fierce coaster themed after Mako Sharks.
- Antarctica: Empire Of The Penguin gives guests an icy adventure spearheaded by adorable baby penguins and several surprise encounters.
- Kraken Unleashed brings riders face-to-face with mythical beasts unleashed before their eyes atop an 80-foot tall floorless coaster track.
Shopping
Shopping in Orlando, United States, is a unique experience. From luxury malls filled with designer stores to eclectic boutiques, this dynamic city offers something for everyone. With its incredible selection of stores, shopping in Orlando is an exciting way to explore the area and find one-of-a-kind items that can’t be found anywhere else.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the best options for shopping in Orlando:
Mall at Millenia
The Mall at Millenia is the ultimate destination for luxury shopping in Orlando. Considered one of the most exclusive shopping destinations in the United States, this one-of-a-kind mall offers an impressive selection of designer apparel and accessories, home décor, beauty products, and much more.
The Mall at Millenia features three floors of high-end and mid-range brand shops, offering something for everyone. With a collection of fashion brands like Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Burberry; high-tech toys from Apple; dining options with quick counter service as well as fine dining restaurants; a 14-theatre luxury IMAX® Movie Theater; plus plenty of family-friendly activities throughout the year – The Mall at Millenia is truly a must-see destination for locals and visitors alike.
The Mall at Millenia is conveniently located near major attractions such as Universal Studios and Disney World. There is plenty of nearby parking (free before 5 pm), with Valet parking available during peak times. So whether you’re looking to spend an afternoon browsing or find that perfect gift for someone special, The Mall at Millenia offers something for everyone to enjoy!
Orlando International Premium Outlets
Visiting Orlando International Premium Outlets is the perfect way to spend your day exploring Orlando, United States. This outlet mall offers indoor and outdoor shopping with an impressive collection of over 200 stores and outlets. You will find all your favorite designer and brand names at reduced prices, making it an ideal choice for those hoping to stretch their budget.
The beautiful Mediterranean-style complex includes department stores offering worldwide fashion, appliances, and luxuries. Among them are brands like Michael Kors, Armani Exchange, Gucci, Coach Outlet, Neiman Marcus Last Call Studio, and more.
Plenty of eateries are scattered among the shops for you to rest and revive after a heavy shopping spree. At Orlando International Premium Outlets, you can also enjoy special offers like military discounts and sales for occasions like Black Friday, Tax-Free Weekends, or other seasonal deals that come up during the year.
Come back home with a great selection of clothing items from renowned retailers at a fraction of their original price!
The Florida Mall
The Florida Mall is one of Orlando’s premier shopping destinations just minutes from downtown. Over 250 stores, restaurants, and service providers spread over 1.8 million square feet of retail space. The Florida Mall is one of the largest shopping venues in the United States. Visitors can find well-known brand stores like Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH, JCPenney, Macy’s, and Dillard’s, as well as a variety of national specialty retailers like Apple and Microsoft. With its wide selection of designer brands and great discounts on popular items, The Florida Mall is the perfect place to find the ideal gift or update your wardrobe.
In addition to more than 200 exclusive stores inside The Florida Mall complex, including Coach Factory Store, Kate Spade New York, and UNIQLO USA, visitors can also explore open-air retail areas like Disney Springs Marketplace and Town Center featuring unique dining experiences such as Wolfgang Puck Express where you can enjoy pizzas, salads and more in an outdoor garden atmosphere – all without ever leaving The Florida Mall property.
For those who are looking for something a little different from traditional mall shopping, there is a virtual reality theme park called VR Park located onsite within The Florida Mall that allows visitors to experience out-of-this-world such as piloting a spaceship or free-falling to an asteroid for one-of-a-kind experiences that mix entertainment with education!
With exciting events every season, such as sales promotions for back-to-school shopping or holiday decorations for Christmas-time fun – there is always something new at The Florida Mall! So explore all these fantastic mall offers during your trip to Orlando!
Outdoor Activities
Orlando, Florida, is known for its warm weather and great outdoor activities. From ziplining to hoverboarding, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast. Let’s look at some of the most popular outdoor activities in Orlando.
There are plenty of outdoor activities that can keep you entertained and active while visiting Orlando:
Gatorland
Gatorland, located in Orlando, Florida, is the Alligator Capital of the World and an essential stop for visitors to the Sunshine State. Gatorland offers visitors a unique blend of outdoor experiences, boasting over 4,000 alligators and crocodiles on a 110-acre wildlife preserve. Through interactive opportunities and exciting events, guests can explore Gatorland’s natural diversity and learn about one of Florida’s iconic creatures.
At Gatorland, you will find:
- Wildlife exhibits;
- Kissimmee River nature walk;
- Snakes and Lizards exhibit;
- Marsh exhibiting native birds;
- Aviary with birds from around the world;
- Jungle Crocs of the World exhibit;
- Adventure Hour with live feedings from friendly handlers;
- Daily alligator wrestling shows in trademarked “Gator Pit“;
- Educational area with daily animal presentations by staff experts;
- Kids’ play area with jungle gym slide & geo dome climber and the miniature golf course.
Wekiwa Springs State Park
Wekiwa Springs State Park is located just 20 miles north of Orlando and offers a variety of activities that are perfect for reconnecting with nature in an environment that has remained largely untouched by human development. Here, visitors can indulge in various outdoor activities, including paddling and fishing on the pristine spring-fed lakes, swimming in the calm waters of Rock Springs Run, and exploring nature trails full of abundant plant and animal life.
If you’re looking for an authentic Florida outdoors experience, there are plenty of activities to fill your days:
- Paddle along the 13 miles of boat trails.
- Spend your day fishing for large-mouth bass and bluegill from the banks and docks scattered around the park.
- Nature lovers can explore one (or all) of the paths that meander through broad flatwoods, swamps, and hardwood hammocks.
- Enjoy picturesque views from observation areas scattered throughout the park.
- For a more leisurely activity, take a break at one (or several) sandy beaches along Lake Wekiwa. Visitors can camp on sandy shores near cliff-like formations or rent kayaks or bicycles to explore more distant areas.
Whether you want to relax or get your heart pumping, Wekiwa Springs State Park offers something for everyone!
International Drive
The bustling International Drive in Orlando, United States, is along a stretch of road boasting plenty of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. International Drive offers tourists Central Florida’s best. It is filled with activities for all age groups, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and fun seekers, besides championship golf courses and stunning green parks. In addition, the drive provides a perfect opportunity for local Floridians and visitors alike to explore this vibrant location.
The I-Drive Live entertainment complex hosts theme parks like the world-renowned Universal Studios and Sea World; Walgreens Adventure Park, where kids can dunk through 5 vertical slides or take a paddle boat ride; and Icon 360 and Coca-Cola Orlando Eye with vibrant views of nearby skylines. In addition, the complex area includes restaurants such as Hard Rock Cafe, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., The Rainforest Cafe, Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, and savor Chinese cuisine at P.F Chang’s China Bistro restaurant. Plus, there are plenty of nightclubs around when after sunset hits right. Tourists can also enjoy shows at the Masquerade Music Park or dare to try Jake’s American Bar, one of many bars in International Drive offering touch screens filled with more than 30 varieties of craft beer from all over the world as part of its wide selection of beverage offerings.
Along with shopping outlets at Pointe Orlando mall; souvenirs to take home from either Kissimmee Marketplace & Flea Market malls or Festival Bay Mall on International Drive; local business tours around OCCC Conference Centre; Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Odditorium conveniently located on I-Drive allows travelers to explore unusual artifacts from around the world; plus game stores like Game Stop – there are plenty more family adventures awaiting within I-Drive where thrill seekers go beyond expectations during their stay complete with a safe environment plus ultimate outdoor recreational experiences enjoyed by both young and old!
Dining
Orlando, United States, is filled with incredible dining options. From upscale restaurants to casual American-style eats, there’s something for everyone.
The Boheme
The Boheme is an intimate yet vibrant Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando restaurant. It offers guests a truly unique and unforgettable dining experience, combining elements of local ingredients with international flavors and contemporary cooking techniques. With its stunning ambiance, stunning wine cellar, and unusual seasonal menu items, The Boheme features something for everyone.
Guests can enjoy locally-sourced ingredients for their meals, including fresh citrus, seasonal vegetables, locally-caught fish, and the specialty of Chef Greg Richie – Florida’s famous black grouper. There are also five small plate offerings, including a Spanish octopus and beef tartare dishes that guests always rave about. For those looking to indulge in something larger than small plates, there are also seven options featuring selections such as roasted pork loin and wild-caught shrimp with saffron served over grilled polenta.
At The Boheme, guests can savor an extensive selection of sweet treats, which include classic desserts such as bread pudding souffle or the decadent triple chocolate brownie bomba. Additionally, the restaurant features a cocktail list of innovative creations, such as signature martinis & Manhattans, that add flair to any meal. The extensive wine list rounds out any dining experience with choices from old-world classics to new American vintages worldwide, including robust reds from Italy’s Tuscany region or light Spanish Riojas perfect for a pairing to your seafood dish. There is something for everyone at The Boheme!
The Ravenous Pig
The Ravenous Pig is an acclaimed gastropub in Winter Park, a suburb of Orlando, Florida. Since opening its doors in 2007, owners James and Julie Petrakis have built an award-winning and ever-evolving menu inspired by the bounty of Central Florida’s abundant farms and fisheries. The menu changes seasonally to capitalize on the freshest ingredients available, creating creative twists on classics such as the Local Pork Jambalaya and the Smoked Trout Bruschette.
The Ravenous Pig is more than just great food – it’s an iconic gathering place for locals that attracts guests from all over Central Florida for lunch, dinner, brunch, or happy hour at its cozy bar. Specialty cocktails crafted with local spirits complement an innovative beer list or one-of-a-kind wine pairings worldwide. For those looking to experience a well-crafted night out or celebrate a special occasion, The Ravenous Pig offers joyous hospitality accented with custom artwork from local artists – firmly placing this gastropub among Orlando’s finest eateries.
K Restaurant
K Restaurant is a unique spot located in College Park, Orlando. It offers an array of entrees, including delicious steaks, fresh fish, delicious desserts, and inspired dishes crafted by executive chef Kevin Fonzo.
Try the grilled warm fig salad with shaved manchego and toasted pine nuts or the slow-cooked pork shoulder with tomato gravy for the main course. Or, for something more adventurous, try the duck confit ravioli or braised veal osso bucco. The restaurant also offers vegetarian options on lunch and dinner menus and an extensive wine list to complement your meal.
K Restaurant prides itself on quality service in an inviting atmosphere surrounded by sophisticated contemporary art from local artists providing a unique dining experience for all.
Conclusion
Orlando is renowned for its abundance of things to do. Whether you’re looking for theme parks, live entertainment, a wide array of dining options, museums, or a family-friendly vacation spot, there are endless activities in Orlando and its surrounding areas that cater to all types of travelers. Orlando has something for everyone, from lakes and golf courses to art galleries and shopping centers.
No matter what type of vacation experience you’re looking for, Orlando will not disappoint. With an exciting variety of attractions and activities inclusive of all ages, interests, and budgets, your days in Orlando will surely be complete and your nights memorable. So take advantage of this fantastic city and its many attractions – discover the magic of Orlando!