City in Florida, United States
Photo: Cwolfsheep at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Orlando deserves its reputation as the theme park capital of the world, with an estimated 52 million visitors a year. The city is best known for its theme parks Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando, but it holds a lot to offer besides those two amusement meccas. Countless hotels and restaurants cater to business conventions and other events hosted by organizations from all over the country. Outside the theme park districts and hotels, however, lies much more to be explored, including downtown, areas of untouched wilderness, world-class museums and theaters, and old towns with dining and nightlife.
From the travel guide. Select a place for details, a map and what is nearby.
An arboretum and botanical garden covering 80 acres (32 hectares), containing more than 600 species of plants in cultivated gardens. Its cultivated areas include a Conservatory, a bromeliad sanctuary, cycad garden, fern garden, palm collection, rose garden, swamp habitat, and a wetland plants display.
Beautiful landscaped gardens and lakes set in nearly 50 acres (20 hectares) of land, featuring flora gathered from around the globe since 1936. Includes the largest rose garden in Florida and the largest camellia collection in the U.S. outside of California. The Leu House, set within the grounds and dating back to the 1880s, has tours every 30 minutes that explore its museum illustrating Florida living at the turn of the 20th century (closed due to Hurricane Irma damage). Special events throughout the year.
Ongoing exhibitions of American portraits and landscapes, American impressionist works, and art of the ancient Americas.
A large hands-on learning center with hundreds of interactive exhibits for visitors of all ages. Images surround visitors on the giant screen of the Dr. Phillips CineDome. Other attractions include the Body Zone, teaching health and fitness, as well as an observatory. The center has the largest refracting telescope in Florida.
Features exhibits and artifacts from the earliest days of the region to the modern day. Includes information on everything from the time of the Seminole Indians to the founding of the city to the Civil Rights era to the Disney period to today.
In a building artfully constructed to appear as if it were collapsing to one side, visitors can explore bizarre artifacts, strange collections, weird art (for example, check out the scale model of a 1907 Rolls Royce Silver Ghost automobile made entirely of matchsticks and glue), and interactive exhibits in 16 odd galleries. Seriously schlocky, yet fun.
Large auto collection, many of them are used in Hollywood movies and television sets.
The renowned gold standard resort complex, home to four iconic theme parks and much, much more.
Top-ranked challenger to Disney and home to Harry Potter, with two theme parks, a nightclub and restaurant complex, and seven resort hotels.
A beautifully landscaped 200-acre marine theme park featuring thrilling rides, fun exhibits, an ever-shrinking amount of animal shows. A more laid-back alternative to Disney and Universal, the complex includes the main park, as well as the all-inclusive Discovery Cove experience park and the Aquatica water park.
A unique companion to Sea World, it is often sold out as admission is limited to 1000 guests per day, but it does include all your equipment, food, drink and a 30-minute interaction with the dolphins in the water.
An iconic, small alligator and reptile themed park that was one of the first tourist attractions in the area, predating Disney World.
Small unthemed amusement park with go-karts, thrill rides, and roller coasters, including Orlando's only wooden coaster.
This extravagant, 2,000-seat Catholic church has become a tourist attraction thanks in part to the millions of Catholics from around the world who visit it and the rest of Orlando every year. Keep in mind, though, that it is not a parish and therefore it cannot perform weddings, funerals, or baptisms.
Kia Center
The Magic play in the National Basketball Association (NBA) and are Orlando's only representative in the U.S.' big four sports leagues.
Inter&Co Stadium
Orlando City, nicknamed "The Lions", have become one of the more popular Major League Soccer (MLS) teams since their founding in 2015. They have played at Inter&Co Stadium (formerly Orlando City Stadium and Exploria Stadium) since 2017.
Amway Center
A minor league hockey team in the third-level ECHL, the games are a fun and cheap option.
Amway Center
An indoor football team that started playing in the 2019 season as a member of the National Arena League (NAL).
Inter&Co Stadium
The Pride are a women's soccer team founded in 2016. A member of the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) they're owned and operated by Orlando City SC.
Multiple venues
The teams representing the enormous University of Central Florida (UCF) compete in NCAA Division I sports as members of the Big 12 Conference. The campus has heavily invested in athletics facilities, with the most notable examples being the football team's FBC Mortgage Stadium, still widely known by its nickname of Bounce House, and the 10,000-seat Addition Financial Arena.
Helpful office with two interactive kiosks and electronic message boards with information about local downtown restaurants, shops, accommodations, special events, etc.
Two courses: 18 holes, over 7,205 yards with a par of 72 (Private Non-Equity); 9 holes, over 3,409 yards with a par of 36 (Private Non-Equity).
18 holes, over 6,591 yards with a par of 72 (Private Equity).
18 holes, over 6,055 yards with a par of 72 (Municipal).
18 holes, over 5,332 yards with a par of 70 (Public).
9 holes, over 2,308 yards with a par of 32 (Public).
Four courses: 18 holes over 6,773 yards with a par of 72 (Public); 9 holes over 3,462 yards with a par of 36 (Public); 9 holes over 3,521 yards with a par of 36 (Public); 9 holes over 3,434 yards with a par of 36 (Public).
18 holes, over 7,011 yards with a par of 72 (Private Non-Equity).
18 holes, over 7,051 yards with a par of 72 (Public).
18 holes, over 6,968 yards with a par of 71 (Private Non-Equity).
18 holes, over 6,929 yards with a par of 72 (Private Equity).
18 holes, over 7,122 yards with a par of 72 (Public).
18 holes, over 7,213 yards with a par of 72 (Public).
18 holes, over 5,467 yards with a par of 70 (Public).
OCCC
With 2.1 million-square feet of exhibition space, the OCCC serves as the area's convention and meeting center.
Classic American cuisine overlooking Lake Eola.
A steakhouse named after Patrick Smith's rich novel featuring Florida's historical moments and landscapes. Serves a variety of cuisine and accompanying wine list. Serves Harris Ranch all Natural Prime Black Angus Beef, and menu items catering to all tastes.
People drive from hours away to this charming family-owned restaurant that brings the fish and flavors of Boston to Orlando. Authentic New England Clam Chowder, cod, and steak tips. Worth the wait for a fresh meal made to order.
BBQ ribs, sandwiches and other smoked delights. Atmosphere has a home-style feel and plenty of pig companions.
Great menu with a Key West themed dining experience.
Gourmet dining featuring regional specialties, served in a setting dedicated to the Florida Everglades. Periodic Vine & Dine wine dinners featuring gourmet cuisine and fine wines.
Gourmet menu featuring prime steaks and fresh seafood in a whimsical atmosphere featuring the world's largest collection of autographed star caricatures.
A gay-friendly burger joint with drag shows and drinks.
A modern twist is given to classic French foods at this restaurant.
An upscale steak house in the downtown.
@I-Drive
Brazilian steak house. All-you-can-eat special meats with unlimited servings of up to 12 different delectable cuts of meats which are presented on skewers and carved table side. Also, a variety of dishes including salads, pasta, rice and the famous Brazilian style beans called ‘Feijoada’, all freshly made in house.
A Brazilian pizza restaurant that also serves pastas and salads.
El Inka Grill serves Peruvian seafood and other Peruvian food. Ceviche is their signature dish.
Vegetarian/Indian cuisine.
Nightly oriental folk music performances compliment a wide selection of sushi, and dim sum.
Serves very good sushi and tempura. Offers other Asian dishes
Japanese sushi and other Japanese food. Excellent quality.
Serves mainly Vietnamese cuisine. Most food of excellent quality.
Traditional Chinese food, specializing in Sichuan dishes.
Serves Taiwanese Chinese food, some of excellent quality and some mediocre.
Japanese sushi house that offers other Japanese food offerings. Sake also available. Quality very good. This restaurant has another location in Orlando at 6417 Raleigh St.
Authentic Korean cuisine.
Rosen Shingle Creek's upscale Italian restaurant features Italian classics, with Mediterranean and American inspiration, accompanied by a diverse list of top quality wines.
A Cuban restaurant that turns into a Latin dance club by night.
Great cooking and great wine.
If you're interested in cigars and all the different kinds of cigars, then this place is for you. The Corona Cigar Company allows its customers to sample different cigars. They also serve drinks.
Entertainers perform songs at request all night. A place where people can go to listen to music, dance, drink, and have fun.
Orena Sports Bar caters to both locals and tourists. The bar serves food and drinks. Visitors can go to eat, play games, watch sports games and more.
Sit down, relax and listen to music. Velvet Bar also has live bands.
Blue Martini is a very high end martini bar. People can enjoy live entertainment at the bar.
Near popular Orlando attractions such as Universal Studios Orlando and SeaWorld
Less than one mile from Universal Studios, free ground transportation to theme parks available.
Designed as a medieval-themed palace. 216 rooms and suites.
244 two-room suites.
2 outdoor pools, kiddie pools, and hot tubs, tennis court, fitness center, indoor heated pool and hot tub. 2/2 suites w/ kitchens, sofa beds, and balcony.
Less than 2 miles from Universal Orlando and nearby Islands of Adventure and Orlando Premium Outlets, where complimentary scheduled shuttle service is provided.
301 rooms.
Cooked-to-order breakfast and lunch are served daily; free WiFi.
Studios with kitchenettes, one- and two- bedroom suites with full kitchens. 2 pools, activity center, fitness center, grills, meeting rooms
At the entrance to the Walt Disney World Resort, the hotel has a water park on the property.
The only Ramada Hotel on International Drive across Wet 'n Wild. King and double lakefront rooms, free breakfast, internet access and shuttle to attractions.
Two bedroom villas w/ kitchens & washer/dryers; pools, fitness center; 1 mi from SeaWorld.
Full kitchens with stainless steel appliances, smart TVs, free breakfast.
176 all-suite accommodations equipped with full kitchens, washers and dryer included in every room.
Features modest yet roomy suites with separated living space, numerous dining options, large pool area with waterslide. Offers a full-service fitness center and spa. Popular with business travelers for its conference amenities, the hotel also caters well to families and tourists.
Near Universal Orlando Resort, the hotel has 3 onsite restaurants, bars, swimming pool and fitness center. Also offering complimentary internet in rooms, business center, with 60,000 sq. ft. of meeting space.
Well-appointed suites with family-friendly floorplans, Mediterranean style decor, and modern furnishings.
Central. 250 rooms and suites.
The famous rock 'n roll themed hotel combines restaurants, clubs and shows to provide an entertaining place to stay.
Studios with kitchenettes, one- and two-bedroom suites with full kitchens. 2 pools, activity center, fitness center, playground, tennis court, meeting rooms.
Official Hotel Partner of SeaWorld. Studios with kitchenettes, one- and two- bedroom suites with full kitchens. 2 pools, activity center, fitness center, grills, free scheduled shuttle.
Home to the famous Peabody Ducks; across the street from the Orange County Convention Center.
Business facilities available, within the terminal.
Resort hotel with a spa and Greg Norman-designed golf course.
Offers two-bedroom, two-bath villas near Sea World.
One-, two- and three-bedroom villas with kitchens.
Two hotels sharing a golf course, spa, creative lazy river pool, and two restaurants.
Two bedroom suites w/kitchens & washer/dryers; within walking distance International Dr; pool, basketball, 1 mi from Universal Resort.
The largest mall in Orlando, at the crossroads of Orange Blossom Trail and Sand Lake Road, about a mile north of the Florida Turnpike/Beachline Expressway interchange. Home to over 200 shops including Macy's, American Girl, Dillard's, JC Penney, and Sears. You can go an entire day in this mall and still not finish. Popular among international tourists wishing to stock up on cheap American goods, but of better quality than found at the many stores.
Formerly Downtown Disney, the area has been transformed into an upscale mall and dining destination on Disney's property.
This is Orlando's most upscale and beautiful mall. Find everything from Tiffany's to Hugo Boss and Gucci. Also home to upscale department stores like Macy's, Bloomingdales and Neiman Marcus. This also features Apple and Sony Style selling computers and related products. This mall is part of the very new and trendy Millenia area of Orlando. Conroy Road exit off of I-4 a few miles south of downtown.
E Colonial Dr and Macguire Blvd, more than a mile NE of downtown.
International Drive, close to SeaWorld Orlando.
Automotive-themed indoor mall with a go-kart race track in the center.
Home to the biggest designers such as Armani, Fendi, Burberry, Ferragamo, Lacoste, Coach. Also home to Tommy Hilfiger, Nike, Polo, Nautica and many more. Off of 535 and visible from I-4 closest to the Disney World area. This is the best mall to pick up bargains from all the name brands and designer wear.
(formerly Beltz/Prime Outlets) — Home to many designers such as Polo, DKNY, Nike, Reebok, and Liz Claiborne. It's a beautiful outdoor mall with a wide variety of stores.
Select from over 300 designer and name brands such as Gap, Reebok, Carters and Eddie Bauer. Stores offer factory direct, quality merchandise at savings up to 75%. Off of SR-535 near International Dr and Disney.
By train
Orlando has a downtown Amtrak station that provides service from destinations such as Miami, but also connects to other points as far north as New York City via the Silver Star and Silver Meteor…
By bus
for a list of county operated bus companies serving the Greater Orlando Metropolitan area (Orange, Osceola, and Seminole Counties) and from the surrounding neighboring counties further out (Brevard,…
By car
By rental car
If you arrive by plane via Orlando International Airport and pick up a rental car there, you can go through the north exit and head to SR 528 West to get to International Drive, Universal Orlando,…
By bus
Lynx operates public transportation for the Greater Orlando Metropolitan area in Orange, Osceola, and Seminole Counties with the following routes that are of interest to travelers without a car:
By train
SunRail, +1-855-724-5411 (RAIL-411)) runs a limited north–south route through the center of the area, with a northern end in DeBary and an initial southern end at Poinciana.
By trolley
The I-Ride Trolley, +1 407-248-9590, runs along International Drive and Universal Boulevard and primarily serves tourists in the attractions area, operating daily from 8AM to 10:30PM.
By taxi
With all of the tourists, it's no surprise dozens of taxi companies operate in the region.
Choose an airport to see hotels, stations, taxi ranks and car rental desks around it.
Orlando · International · MCO
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