The Other Side of Orlando: Live like a Local and Do What the Locals Do

Orlando Florida is home to some of the world's most famous attractions. Millions of people from around the world come to visit Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Sea World, and other theme parks in the area.

But Orlando and the surrounding areas has a lot to offer. Sure the theme parks are fun, but the Central Florida is more than Mickey Mouse and Shamu. And if you want to experience Central Florida like someone who lives here, here are some things you should check out.

Visit the Farmer's Markets in Downtown Orlando or Winter Park

Orlando is home to some great farmers' markets. Two of the best are the downtown Orlando market at Lake Eola Park. This beautiful Sunday market is set the heart of downtown Orlando and has fresh produce, food, wine, arts and crafts. On Saturdays, locals head to the Winter Park Farmers' Market. With more vendors than its Lake Eola counterpart, this market offers more produce and a huge selection of plants ready to make your garden more beautiful.

Catch a performance of Cirque Du Soleil's La Nuba

Okay, this one is at Walt Disney World, but it's not a theme park. Rather, under the modern, white, "big top" at the end Downtown Disney Westside you'll fine La Nuba, Cirque Du Soleil's permanent show at Walt Disney World. If you've seen any of Cirque's other productions, then you know what you're in for; a 90 minutes of beautiful, artistic performance that will take your breath away. The show is performed twice nightly and tickets start at $69.

Watch an Independent Film at the Enzian

The Enzian Theater is Orlando's only independent film house. With couches, table, and plush chairs, it's 180 degrees from most other theaters. You can enjoy a drink from the full bar outside before entering the theater. There's the usual theater fare such as soda and popcorn, but there's also cheese and fruit, nachos, and even full entrees.

Spend an Afternoon in Downtown Orlando's Thornton Park Neighborhood

Located near Lake Eola in Downtown Orlando is the Thornton Park neighborhood. As recently as a few years ago, this area was rundown and forgotten. However, Thornton Park is going through a renaissance complete with new trendy cafes, art galleries, and shops. There are some great places to grab lunch or dinner such as Dexter's Wine Bar or Hue. Most of the restaurants and cafés have outdoor seating so you can enjoy a sunny Orlando day as you drink wine and watch the world go by.