Renowned as ‘The City Beautiful’, ‘O-Town’ and ‘Theme Park Capital of the World’, Orlando enchants its visitors and stands out as one of the most-frequented cities. In addition to the myriad shopping outlets, eateries, attractions, and live entertainment dotted around downtown Orlando, three colossal tourist destinations dominate the landscape: Walt Disney World® Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, and the illustrious SeaWorld® Orlando. Other prominent landmarks in the city encompass the iconic Wheel at ICON Park® Orlando, Orlando Museum of Art, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Orlando also clinches its status as one of the busiest cities in America for conferences and conventions, all thanks to its possession of the second-largest convention facility in the United States, the Orange County Convention Center. Acknowledged as the ultimate family destination, Orlando is equally rich in offerings for adults or those who retain a childlike spirit.
Hosting seven of the globe’s premier theme parks and boasting an array of 450 hotels, Orlando pulsates with a plethora of activities to keep visitors engaged throughout their stay.
Must-Do Activities
Orlando guarantees an unforgettable getaway brimming with distinctive experiences for all kinds of travelers. Here are some top draws that beckon exploration.
- Walt Disney World® Resort: Unveiled in 1971, this sprawling resort complex sprawls over nearly 25,000 acres and comprises four theme parks, 40 hotels, golf courses, a multitude of dining and entertainment venues, and a shopper’s paradise at Disney Springs®.
- Universal Orlando Resort: Housing Universal Studios Florida, an active production studio, this resort shelters diverse shopping and dining options at Universal CityWalk, two theme parks (Islands of Adventure and Epic Universe), along with the exhilarating Volcano Bay water park.
- SeaWorld® Orlando: This marine zoological park is home to numerous hotels and theme parks that promise year-round fun, including Aquatica® Orlando, Discovery Cove®, and one-of-a-kind animal encounters.
- International Drive Entertainment District (also known as I-Drive): This pedestrian-friendly locale flaunts an array of attractions, dining options, and entertainment venues such as Icon Park® and the towering 400-ft The Wheel, among others.
- Open-air excursions and adventures: Opt for a 45-minute airboat tour cruising at speeds up to 40mph with Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures, indulge in kayaking at Rock Springs at Kelly Park, or challenge yourself at the Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park.
Culinary Delights
Orlando boasts over 5,000 restaurants featuring a blend of celebrity chef creations and beloved local flavors, ensuring a dining experience to suit every taste.
- Feast at renowned establishments like: Bull & Bear at the Waldorf Astoria Orlando, Victoria and Albert’s, Shula’s Steakhouse, José Andrés’ JALEO and Pepe, Masaharu Morimoto’s Morimoto Asia, and many others.
- Explore the craft brewery scene with visits to: Big Storm Brewing Company, Broken Strings Brewery, and Cask & Larder.
- Witness a spectacular dinner show at: Mango’s Tropical Café, Wantilan Luau at Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando, Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, or the captivating Capone’s Dinner & Show.
Accommodations
With a wide-ranging selection of over 130,000 rooms spread across 480 hotels and resorts, Orlando lodgings exude a diversity matching the destination itself. For those seeking upscale family accommodations, here’s a top pick for a luxurious vacation abode in Orlando.
- KEMPA PARK: Situated alongside the sixth hole of the award-winning Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, KEMPA PARK lies adjacent to Walt Disney World® and features a 12,000+ sq. ft. villa capable of accommodating 32 guests. With 12 bedrooms, the villa boasts a lavish pool, spacious game rooms and gathering spaces, a theater room, themed children’s bunk rooms, indoor and outdoor kitchens and dining areas, as well as exclusive Disney® VIP and backstage experiences. Entertainment options cater to all ages, with game rooms tailored for both the young and the young at heart, accompanied by access to neighboring amenities encompassing three world-class golf courses, a water park, multiple dining venues, fitness centers, tennis courts, and more.
- For a premier luxury hotel option, we recommend:
- Four Seasons Resort Orlando: Home to a total of 443 rooms, this resort boasts the most expansive standard guest room square footage in Orlando and showcases the largest Royal Suite across all of Central FL. The property flaunts five top-notch dining establishments (including the rooftop Michelin Star-rated Capa Steakhouse, providing vistas of the nightly Disney fireworks from its terrace), the five-acre Explorer Island water park, five resort pools, an 18-hole Tom Fazio-designed golf course, a spa equipped with 18 treatment rooms, and three Har-Tru tennis courts.
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