Visit Orlando Florida

Orlando, Florida, is called the amusement park capitol. It has earned that title by being the home of Disney World and Sea World. You can discover other fun things to do if you choose not to visit the amusement parks. Here are some suggestions that offer a different scope of entertainment, while visiting the area.

International Drive in Orlando offers visitors many choices of entertainment. There are many outstanding restaurants located there, along with unique shopping experiences. You can discover reggae music, while enjoying a drink on a patio at Bahama Breeze Restaurant. You can watch a swinging jitterbug performed by the crew at Johnny's Rockets Restaurant. This restaurant has juke boxes at every table, old fashioned straw holders, and nostalgic 50's music being played.

The I-Ride Trolley is an economical and convenient way to get around International Drive. Its route takes it from one end of International Drive to the other. Day passes are sold, and senior citizen rates are just a quarter per ride.

Shoppers can appreciate the two large outlet malls located on International Drive. Orlando Premium Outlets has many fine stores located there, including Saks Fifth Avenue, Samsonite, and Ann Taylor. These offer premium merchandise at greatly reduced prices. The end of the line for the trolley is another outlet mall, located on Vineyard Avenue. There are different outlet stores located there. The food choices. at both malls, are good and delicious.

Lodging is not a problem in this area. There are many fine motels and hotels that offer various price ranges for lodging. There is an Orlando Magicard available from www.VisitOrlando.com/magicard, which offers various discounts on lodging, food, car rentals, and shopping.

For those who like adventure, there are several great places close to Orlando. "Fantasy Surf" is one of them. It is a place to enjoy sliding, riding, and surfing in a controlled environment. It is located in nearby Kissimmee, Florida.

Boggy Creek Airboat Rides offer a chance to tour the central Florida Evergrades. There are private tours, night tours, and continuous half hour tours to the swamps. It is a unique experience for the entire family.

Gatorland offers a splash park, reptile shows, and a train ride. Giant white alligators are definitely a "must see."

Hot air balloons offer a unique way to see the area. There are several companies that offer these rides.

There are several art galleries in Orlando. Baterbys Art Auction Gallery affords an enchanting exhibit of art work.

For additional culture venues, there are several outstanding museums located in the area. There is a museum for military buffs, The Armed Forces Military Museum has many detailed exhibits outlining the war history of the United States.

The Wells Built Museum of African American History and Culture is another unusual attraction. The African American's contributions to Florida are highlined at this museum, with many exhibits depicting these accomplishments.

If you enjoy gardens, the Harry P. Leu Gardens will definitely be a treat. These gardens feature native Florida plants and flora.

There is a winery tour that takes the visitors to the vineyards and allows guests to see the actual process of making wine. The Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards offers sampling, also.

These are just a sampling of the things to do in Orlando. The Orlando Florida Visitor's Bureau is a good place to start to seek the fun things to do in the city. You can request brochures, maps, and other information by visiting their site www.VisitOrlando.com.