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Positioned in the USA’s temperate Sun Belt region, Orlando is Florida’s largest inland city, and has grown exponentially in the last few decades – it’s now one of the most popular tourist destinations in the States. Often referred to as the Theme Park Capital of the World, it’s home to a number of massive attractions, including Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle (yes, the same one you see at the start of every Disney movie). Whether you have kids, are a big kid yourself, or just want a taste of childhood magic, Orlando should be your next holiday destination.
Orlando has grown up around its numerous theme parks, and it’s reflected in the city’s veneration of these awesome places. The majority can be found along the meandering International Drive, which lies more or less adjacent to the CBD. Walt Disney World Resort is the most famous, and houses Cinderella Castle, but Universal Orlando Resort, Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, Universal Studios Florida, SeaWorld Orlando and Disney’s Animal Kingdom are also hugely popular. No matter how energetic and adventurous your kids are, there’s no way they’ll ever be bored in Orlando.
For a more understated experience, check out some of the city’s museums and art galleries before trying the food scene. The Orlando Science Centre and the National Vietnam War Museum are both nice ways to spend a few hours, as is the Mennello Museum of American Art, which houses a collection of paintings by painter Earl Cunningham. Once you start to feel hungry, there’s a huge variety of eateries to choose from – some of the best are the ultra-exclusive Norman’s, retro-chic Kings Dining and Entertainment, and the incredible ICEBAR Orlando, which features a bar literally carved out of ice.
Depending on what time of year you visit, there’s also a number of great outdoor activities on offer. Parks like Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve and the Nature Park are perfect for getting a bit of fresh air, while aquatic centres such as the Orlando Watersports Complex let you cool off with wakeboarding, water skiing, wake skating and kneeboarding. Alternatively, if you’re up for a fairly long day trip, the globally-renowned Everglades are just under four hours’ drive south – these stunning wetlands are home to an incredible array of wildlife, including the nearly-extinct Florida panther.
