When one thinks of Orlando they immediately think of DisneyWorld. However, for those who want to see the hidden gems of Orlando, here are the top 10 places for you to visit when you’ve had your fill of Mickey Mouse and roller coasters.
1. Soak up the Sun
If you want a taste of Florida’s exquisite beaches, but not drive too far out of the way, go to Cocoa Beach. Alan Shepard Beach Park at Cocoa Beach is named after the first American astronaut who went into space. Visitors love this five-acre beach because of its clean, safe environment, convenient parking and variety of shops and restaurants.
2. Hang Out with Astronauts
If you or your family has a fascination with space exploration, Kennedy Space Center will send you to the moon. It sits on a large island wildlife refuge that is eight times the size of Manhattan. On your visit you can explore NASA’s launch and landing areas, become an astronaut in an interactive stimulator, see live shows and meet real NASA astronauts.
3. Explore the Alligator Capital of the World
DisneyWorld and Universal Studios aren’t the only Orlando theme parks you should visit. To get a taste of Florida’s wild side, stop by Gatorland. It has thousands of alligators and crocodiles, and shows like Gator Wrestlin and Up-close Encounters. There is also an aviary, breeding marsh, petting zoo and nature walk. Therefore there’s something for everyone!
4. Fly Down the River on a Scenic Nature Tour
You’ve heard about the Florida Everglades, but this is your chance to see it up close. On a Boggy Creek Airboat ride you can zoom down the river and explore the natural wetlands. You will also encounter wildlife and swamps and zip between the tall grass, alligators, turtles, birds and more.
5. Go Golfing
If you’ve had too much of the amusement parks and want relax on the green, Florida is well-known for its amazing golf courses and perfect golfing weather. There is a wide-range of idyllic choices for all golf levels from championship caliber courses to relaxed public greens.
6. Shop till You Drop at the Outlets
If you love high quality products at a great price, Orlando Premium Outlets are the place to shop. They have 150 outlet stores of all your favorite brands. But make sure you have enough room in your suitcase to take it all back home, or just buy another bag.
7. Tour Gardens
The Harry P. Leu Gardens are only minutes from downtown Orlando. Here you can gaze at temperate and tropical plants that grow perfectly in the central Florida climate. Plus, each plant has a QR Code so you can become a Florida flower expert while you meander through the natural beauty.
8. Watch Shakespeare
The Orlando Shakespeare Theater has rave reviews from the Wall Street Journal, Southern Living, etc. Any of its plays are a must-see while you are in town. It is a professional theater that creates new plays and tries to give an innovative educational experience to viewers, and consequently receives rave reviews. It has shows year-round that children and adults both adore.
9. Take in the Orlando Art Scene
The Orlando Museum of Art began in 1924 and its goal has always been to enrich Florida’s cultural life through providing excellence in visual arts. Each year there are 10-12 exhibitions on site and 13 exhibitions off-site, lectures, classes and outreaches to the community. You won’t want to miss this Orlando cultural landmark while in town.
10. Get a COLD Drink
There are only two ice bars in America, and Icebar Orlando is the largest one in the world. Experience a 45-minute Arctic adventure that Travel Channel listed in its Top 10 Extreme Bar Hopping Bars. You can gaze at 50 tons of intricate ice sculptures while wearing a cozy cape and gloves and warming up with delicious drinks.
There are endless choices for accommodation in Orlando, so why not check out a timeshare or two? Our dedicated staff are on hand to answer all of your questions.
