Orlando Travel Information
While wild rides and high-tech theme parks might be the most recognizable face of Orlando, Florida, this city is
more than just larger-than-life Disney characters, long lines and live
entertainment. Look beyond the amusement park offerings and find a
perfectly respectable clutch of cultural sights, a good list of public
golf greens and easy access to ocean activity, state parks and local
lakes (as well as seemingly endless subtropical sunshine) to seal the
deal.
It would be easy to spend a very fast-paced week just taking in
the main theme parks, but there are also several local waterparks to
consider on particularly hot days. Once you've had your fill of
hair-raising roller coasters, you'll do well to venture downtown to see some
of Orlando's "other" sights, including educational attractions like
Wonderworks (think plenty of hands-on activity), the Orlando Science
Center, the Orange County Regional History Center and the Wells' Built
Museum of African American History and Culture. In the general area,
look also for a handful of arts-oriented facilities, including the
Orlando Museum of Art (which showcases works by both contemporary
artists and more traditional talents like Norman Rockwell), the Charles
Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art (in neighboring Winter Park) and
the Mennello Museum of American Folk Art. Falling somewhere in between
are the toothy reptiles at Gatorland, the Holyland Experience (get a glimpse of
early Jerusalem) and Ripley's Believe It or Not!, which ought to
cumulatively give your family members a well-rounded introduction to real life.
For a more natural Florida experience, consider a trip to one of
the states burbling springs, like Rock Springs, a quick drive northwest
of Orlando popular with hikers, paddlers and tubers. Wekiwa Springs,
slightly farther afield, has a similar range of activities to choose
from, as well as a mid-length hiking trail. Those hoping to peddle
their way around parts of this expansive urban area can choose from
routes winding around theme park resorts and the likes of the Cady Way
Trail, an exceptional 3.5-mile path frequented by bikers, joggers and
in-line skaters; try the paved 22-mile long
West Orange Trail that stretches along a
converted rail route if you're after something a little more serious.
Though there are plenty of places to paddle and swim around Orlando,
between local lakes and nearby springs,there's also action to be found on the St. John's River, whether you're after a bit of fresh and saltwater fishing or a scenic boat tour around atmospheric college town, Winter Park.
As the geographical heart of the Sunshine State,
Orlando is within 50 miles from the Atlantic Ocean and 75 miles from
the Gulf waters, located just off SR-528.
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