Orlando Vacations

Overview

Orlando is the 3^rd largest metropolitan area in Florida and one of the fastest growing cities in the Sunbelt. This beautiful city is home to a wide variety of tourist attractions, including more theme parks and entertainment spots than anywhere else in the United States.

Activities & Attractions

In 1965, Walt Disney announced his plan to build Walt Disney World in Orlando. The amusement park opened in October 1971 and transformed Orlando and the surrounding area into a booming entertainment zone. Some of the city's other world-famous theme parks include Universal Studios and SeaWorld. For more family-friendly fun, parents can take their kids to some of Orlando's smaller theme parks like Gatorland, the Holy Land Experience, WonderWorks, and Dinosaur World.

There are plenty of other things to do and see in Orlando apart from amusement parks. Space enthusiasts will enjoy the historic Kennedy Space Center. Art lovers can stroll through interesting museums and art galleries like the Orlando Museum of Art and the CityArts Factory. For panoramic views of the breathtaking countryside, try an Orlando Hot Air Balloon ride. For the more adventurous at heart, the Wallaby Ranch offers hang gliding sessions and Warbird Adventures teaches you how to fly a military plane from WWII. If you enjoy the water, you can go on a boat ride or take a snorkeling tour in Orlando.

After visiting the city's sights, you can enjoy a relaxing day at one of its many exceptional golf courses or shopping centers. The city also has several dining establishments that will whet your appetite.

Lodging

Orlando is teaming with lodging options that can meet the needs of any traveler. You can choose from modest hotels to five-star resorts. Some families prefer to rent a private villa instead. Several of these accommodations are located near the city's major attractions. However, staying near major attractions, such as Disney World, will tend to be more expensive.

Transportation

Most people arrive in Orlando by air at the Orlando International Airport. It is southeast of downtown Orlando and centrally located among the city's major theme parks and attractions. You can also drive or take an Amtrak train to get to Orlando from nearby cities and states.

Once you arrive in Orlando, the easiest way to travel from place to place is by car. If you want to get around the I-Drive area, Orlando's modern trolleys are an ideal option. Orlando is considered to be a bicycle friendly community as well.