Just 40 years ago, Orlando was just a little spot on the map of Florida. But thanks to the vision of Walt Disney, the once-small town which boasted little more than acres of orange groves is now one of America’s most popular vacation destinations, with about 50 million guests descending upon the city each year. Located in Central Florida, Orlando’s tourist infrastructure has grown along with the crowds that visit all year long. An updated airport, a fine selection of accommodations, and plenty of attractions aside from the theme parks keep guests happy, regardless of which season they choose to visit.
Of course, Disney started the boom in central Florida and continues to make the Orlando area one of the most visited regions of the world. Since it opened in 1971 with one park, 2 hotels, and a campground, Walt Disney World Resort has grown into a mega-complex, with everything a vacationing family could want all organized in one neat package. Besides the four parks – Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, MGM Studios, and Animal Kingdom – Disney boasts myriad hotels for a variety of budgets, water parks, golf, sports arenas, a “downtown” area, and much more. Endeavoring to keep up with the folks at Disney, Universal presents both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure as well as its own selection of hotels and other activities, all in one complex. Not as popular as Disney World, Universal has, nonetheless, become a part of the itinerary for many who are visiting Orlando. Not to be discounted is SeaWorld, a long-time resident of Orlando and a stop worth making for those who enjoy exciting and whimsical marine animal shows and other fun water-based attractions. The SeaWorld of today even has some cool new rides, like Journey to Atlantis, a log flume/roller coaster combination that will leave you breathless.
Many of Orlando’s smaller attractions are also water-based, including one of the newest, Discovery Cove. At this unique attraction, guests of all ages can play with dolphins, swim in a lagoon full of stingrays, snorkel through “shipwrecks”, or frolic in a refreshing pool. It’s great for the whole family, and because the attraction limits admission each day, it’s never uncomfortably crowded. Away from the water, Orlando is also home to a number of other fun places to explore. Check out WonderWorks, a quirky upside-down building that’s home to dozens of hands-on activities that kids will enjoy, including a laser tag arena and a roller coaster simulator. The Orlando Science Center, a bit more “academic”, is also perfect for the elementary aged child.
Weather in Florida is pleasant most of the time, though mid-summer can get very hot and humid while winters can sometimes see freezing temperatures, especially in the evening. The theme parks are extremely crowded when the kids aren’t in school, be it during summer vacation or a holiday period. Those who can visit during the spring or fall will find the weather delightful and the crowds lighter.
There is a plethora of lodging options from which to choose when visiting Orlando. Many individuals, couples, or families opt for one of the many vacation rentals that are available in and around the Orlando area, ranging from 1- and 2-bedroom condos to larger single-family homes. Most of the major hotel/motel chains have locations near the theme parks, and RV parks/campgrounds are plentiful as well. The closer you get to Disney World, the more you’ll pay, so if you’re willing to drive a bit, you’ll spend less for accommodations.
