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| Sun State Ford in Downtown Orlando, Florida, USA |
By Julius Choudhury
If Orlando were a Disney character, it's fair to say that she's like Dory (of Nemo fame) and lacks a bit of confidence. It's so easy to get caught up in Greater Orlando – in the isolated, constructed worlds of Disney or Universal Orlando (for which, let's face it, you're probably here) – that you forget all about the downtown city of Orlando herself. She has a lot to offer: lovely tree-lined neighborhoods; a rich performing arts and museum scene; several fantastic gardens and nature preserves; fabulous cuisine; and a delightfully slower pace devoid of manic crowds. So, sure, enjoy the theme parks: the sparkles, nostalgia and adrenaline-pumped fantasy, but also take time to 'Find Orlando'. Come down off the coasters for one day to explore the quieter, gentler side of the city. You may be surprised to find that you enjoy the theme parks all that much more as a result.
Gatorland
Ever wanted to see a man wrestle an alligator? If so, get yourself to Gatorland. Stroll around the boardwalks of the alligator and crocodile wildlife preserve, watch the wrestling and Gator Jumaproo, where alligators leap up to snatch chunks of meat from their trainers' hands, then try some gator nuggets.
Walt Disney World
You can spend days exploring the wonders of Walt Disney World®. Enjoy the rides, shows and parades of the four theme parks, cool down at the two water parks, and dine and shop at Downtown Disney. Make sure you return to the Magic Kingdom for the night-time parade and fireworks.
Universal Studios Florida
Universal Studios Florida® is dedicated to movie-making, with thrill rides, shows, attractions and even streets, shops and restaurants all based on popular films and TV shows. Learn about special effects, take a stroll down Hollywood Boulevard, hurtle past The Mummy with his skeletal warriors, and enjoy the Shrek 4-D show.
Winter Park
For a change of pace, take a trip to the refined town of Winter Park, north of Orlando. Take a leisurely stroll around its museums, parks and gardens, or try a cruise on its lakes past sweeping mansions and cypress swamps.
Orlando Premium Outlets-International Drive
Shopping is a major pastime in Orlando, with shopping malls, department stores and boutiques competing with discount outlet centers. If you want to pick up a bargain, head to Orlando Premium Outlets-International Drive, with 180 stores selling brand-name clothing, shoes, electronics, jewelry and more, at discounts of up to 75%.
Islands of Adventure
Off to Islands of Adventure® to buy a wand and refresh yourself with a butterbeer in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter before encountering the dinosaurs at Jurassic Park. Take a thrill ride with Spider-man, get soaking wet with Popeye and hang on for dear life on the Hulk.
Restaurant Row
Sand Lake Road, often dubbed "Restaurant Row," is a culinary mecca for locals and tourists alike. There's something here to suit everybody's taste and budget, whether it be fine dining at a high-class restaurant, interesting ethnic cuisine, seafood, steaks and grills, vegetarian, or a simple burger and fries.
Golf
If golf is your passion, then grab your clubs and hit the greens and fairways. There are more than 150 golf courses throughout the area, including several operated by Walt Disney World® and some designed by Jack Nicklaus.
SeaWorld
The orcas are awesome, the sea lions and otters hilarious, but the pinnacle of a day in SeaWorld is the spectacular Blue Horizons dolphin show. Feed the rays and dolphins, visit the penguins, manatees and aquariums, have an IMAX-style encounter with a sea turtle and brave the terrifying Kraken.
Legoland Florida
Take a drive southwest of the other theme parks to LEGOLAND. Toddlers can fly a plane or drive a car at DUPLO Village, older children will be thrilled with the roller coasters and water rides, while adults will be enchanted by the intricate recreations of famous landmarks at Miniland USA.
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| Orlando, Florida, USA |
