Discovering Orlando: A Guide to the Theme Park Capital of the World
Orlando, Florida, is world-renowned as a destination filled with excitement, making it a dream location for families, thrill-seekers, and entertainment lovers. But beyond its theme parks, this bustling city offers a variety of attractions, local flavours, and hidden gems that make it worth a visit.
Things to Do in Orlando
While Orlando is synonymous with theme parks, its offerings extend far beyond the gates of Disney and Universal. Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort are must-visit spots for families. Disney’s four theme parks, including Magic Kingdom and Epcot, along with Universal’s Islands of Adventure, offer everything from magical characters to adrenaline-pumping rides. For those who want more, SeaWorld and LEGOLAND Florida Resort are fantastic alternatives for marine life enthusiasts and younger children.
Away from the parks, there are still plenty of things to do. Art lovers should head to the Orlando Museum of Art, while those seeking tranquillity can explore the beautiful Leu Gardens, a stunning 50-acre botanical garden. Sports fans will enjoy catching an NBA game with the Orlando Magic at the Amway Center.
Local Food Specialities
Orlando’s food scene is as diverse as its attractions. One local speciality not to miss is Key Lime Pie, a tangy and sweet dessert that originated in Florida. Another favourite is Gator Tail, deep-fried alligator served with dipping sauce—a true Floridian delicacy. For those preferring more conventional fare, Cuban sandwiches, fried seafood, and barbecue are staples in the area’s many restaurants.
In downtown Orlando, food trucks offer everything from gourmet burgers to tacos. For fine dining, head to Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, a renowned restaurant offering an award-winning tasting menu.
Day Trips from Orlando
Orlando is centrally located, making it an excellent base for day trips. About an hour’s drive east, you’ll find Kennedy Space Center, where you can learn about NASA’s space missions and even meet an astronaut. For beach lovers, Cocoa Beach is a great choice for a relaxing day on the Atlantic coast. Another popular destination is St. Augustine, a historic city filled with Spanish colonial architecture and charming cobbled streets, only a two-hour drive away.
Nature enthusiasts can head to the Wekiwa Springs State Park, just 30 minutes from Orlando, offering crystal-clear springs, kayaking, and scenic trails.
Expenses in Orlando
Orlando can range from affordable to expensive, depending on your plans. Theme parks are the priciest part, with tickets to major parks like Disney and Universal costing around £100 per day. However, staying outside the resort areas or using budget-friendly accommodation options such as Airbnb can save you money. Eating out varies widely, with casual meals costing around £10-£15, while fine dining can push the bill higher.
Public transport options like buses and trolleys are available, but renting a car is highly recommended if you plan on taking day trips or want flexibility in exploring the city.
Travel Advice
When visiting Orlando, timing is everything. The city is busiest from June to August, so visiting in the spring or autumn provides more pleasant weather and shorter queues at the parks. Wearing comfortable shoes is crucial as you’ll be walking a lot, especially in the theme parks.
Lastly, plan ahead. Booking tickets and reservations in advance ensures you won’t miss out on popular attractions. Also, remember to stay hydrated; the Florida sun can be intense.
