It is no surprise that more than 50 million travelers flock to Florida each year, with many of those visitors choosing to rent out Orlando vacation homes. Orlando is the ideal location for families to vacation, even if they do not intend to visit the Disney parks. There is so much more to Orlando than meets the eye.
Orlando travelers will find plenty of amusements aside from Disney World, most of which are just as family-friendly. The Universal Studios Park in Orlando features an entire land devoted to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Other popular local parks include SeaWorld and LEGOLAND.
Orlando International Airport. Image source Flickr by Michael Sauers
Shows
Several shows in the area also make Orlando worth visiting. La Nouba is a Cirque de Soleil show popular among children and adults. There is also a local Blue Man Group performance. Dinner theaters, including Treasure Tavern and Sleuths Mystery Dinner, are available for a night of themed fun. During the day, many guests consider visiting the Peabody Orlando Hotel to witness the march of the Peabody ducks through the hotel twice a day.
Museums
Museums, including Ripley’s Believe It or Not, are great forms of entertainment for the entire family. Orlando is home to many art galleries and museums, including the Albin Polasek Museum and outdoor sculpture garden, which is free. The Cornell Fine Arts Museum and Grand Bohemian Gallery are both options for the art enthusiast and the casual observer alike.
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It is important not to discount the many fulfilling outdoor activities also available in Orlando. There are several popular lakes for swimming, boating and fun. Nearby Kissimmee also has a giant conservatory full of orchids and other flowers from all around the world. Big Tree Par and the local boardwalk are other fun local attractions. Rock Springs’ Kelly Park is a big draw for campers and hikers.
Shopping
Shoppers will even have fun browsing Fleaworld, open on the weekends as the country’s largest flea market. There are more than 1,500 vendors selling their wares. One some days, there are circus acts and other types of family entertainment available.
The weather is another big draw in Orlando. Many visitors enjoy the warm, rainy period between May and September, while others come to Florida during the cool, dry seasons between October and April. Staying in one of the many fine Orlando vacation homes gives visitors access to thousands of restaurants, clubs, activities and parks. Tourists will soon understand why millions are attracted to the area every year.
Heather B is part of a team of writers who have had their work submitted on many blogs and news sites.
