During my family holidays to Orlando, like most tourists, we had never really explored the city itself. Yes, tourists go Orlando for the theme parks, but the city can offer so much more. I didn't learn this until I lived over there and I grew to love the city not for it's theme parks, but for the city itself.
#10 Kennedy Space Center
Kennedy Space Center is a hub for all things space exploration, learn about all the details of the history of space travel and you get the chance the see some of the most historic creations for space travel over the years. There is interactive attractions for children, it's informative for adults and unlike the theme parks. Plan your trip right and you can watch the launch of a rocket from the complex itself. For me it was good as a one time thing, I visited Kennedy Space Center when I was 12 and it doesn't bother me going to visit again. It is quite a drive and if you have no interest in space exploration it can be a drag.
#9 Lake Eola
Lake Eola is a beautiful spot in Downtown Orlando to escape from the hectic crowds at the theme parks. You can go on a stroll around the park grounds to look at the plant life and try and spy any animals. It is a great photo spot for the Orlando skyline, not to mention you can rent a paddleboat! Lake Eola hosts events all year round from Fiesta in the Park or visit the farmers market every Sunday with fresh farm foods from local venders.
#8 The Escape Game
This premiere Orlando attraction is meant to test your wits, at The Escape Game you can solve million dollar heists, decode secret missions and navigate your way through different escape scenarios. Puzzle and gaming enthusiasts love this attraction but can show the true competitive colours of your friends and family. With three different challenges, players have 1 hour to find clues, solve puzzles and find a way out before the clock runs out.
#7 Beaches
Florida's Gulf Coast beaches are ranked as some of the most beautiful and best beaches in the world. Pack up the car and drive to one of the beautiful beaches around Orlando. The Tampa area is home to dozens of scenic beaches such as Clearwater (pictured below), most known for it's soft, powdery white sand or if you prefer a quieter beach try Indian Rocks Beach, still beautiful, but has less or a touristy vibe.
#6 Wekiwa Springs
Wekiwa Springs is located at the head of the Wekiwa River and is a beautiful, relaxing, natural spring where you can take a swim or rent a canoe just an hour away from central Orlando attractions. There is thirteen miles of trails where you can hike, go for a bike rid and, horseback riding. There is also a campground for those wanting a night experience of the park. During summer make sure to arrive early to make sure you get entry into the park.
#5 Mini Golf
Orlando has some of the best spots for mini golf in the US, it is definetly a favourite with tourists and locals. There are plenty of mini golf courses to choose from as there are some located on International Drive, Universal City Walk and Disney has a couple too. Definetly a fun way to kill a couple of hours!
#4 International Drive
International Drive is a major highway in the heart of Orlando tourism and is an entertaining way to spend a day. From the shopping and great selection of restaurants to shows and attractions or even get a view of the entire city from the tip of the Orlando Eye! The infamous 'upside down house' is home to WonderWorks, an interactive experience filled with science experiments, exhibits, arcade games and even design your own roller coaster.
#3 Shopping
Shopping in Orlando is definitely a highlight of any trip I have been on. You can choose from visiting the outlet malls such as the Orlando Premium Outlets on International Drive and Vineland Avenue, where you can get desginer brands discounted as much as 65% or you can head to the Florida Mall or the Millenia Mall which is one of the most popular malls in the state and even if you don't have the money to shop there, is a beautiful place to look around.
#2 Downtown Orlando
If you are over the age of 18 I cannot recommend enough going for a night out in Downtown Orlando. As someone who doesn't like clubbing, I had the best night out of my life in Downtown Orlando. Although at 18 you won't be able to drink you can still visit all of the bars and clubs, although it is a bit more fun over the age of 21. You can visit some of the bars or go all out and visit some clubs. No matter where you go, it'll be one hell of a night to remember.
#1 Amway Center
Not only home to Orlando's NBA team, the Orlando Magic, one of the most famous basketball teams in the world, the Amway Center also has plenty of concerts for you to go and experience. Basketball season runs from October to June so if you are visiting during that time definitely go and experience an American basketball game the way it is supposed to be experienced. I recommend hitting up a sports bar for some pre-game chicken wings and beer, it is a great way to experience american culture.
Comments