A family adventure to visit Orlando is on the bucket list of millions of people, but the reasons behind this vacation vary significantly. It’s a hotspot for thrill seekers, sports fans, corporate travelers, shoppers, and many more visitors.
While some may associate Orlando solely with theme parks and Disney attractions, the city holds countless hidden gems beyond the famous mouse.
Nestled in central Florida, this dynamic city offers endless entertainment opportunities to keep you busy from sunrise to sunset. Whether it’s the enchanting world of Disney and the thrilling rides at Universal Studios, or a day full of endless shopping and dining opportunities, when you visit Orlando, you’ll find something for everyone.
So Why Visit Orlando?
You, too, can experience the ultimate vacation by booking one of the stunning Orlando vacation rentals found in the area. With each one’s proximity to the various popular attractions and favorite tourist destinations, you’ll have more time and money to spend on all the fun and exciting things this fantastic destination offers.
So why wait? Here are ten compelling reasons to visit Orlando, and why it’s the perfect destination for your next vacation.
The Theme Parks
The theme parks alone make Orlando worth visiting. Orlando has some of the most famous and exciting parks in the world, including the world-famous Disney brand.
You’ll likely run into the trademark mouse ears nearly everywhere you turn while you’re exploring Orlando and the surrounding areas.
Walt Disney World Resort comprises four massive parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Together, they cohesively deliver a magical experience for both kids and adults.
Individually, each park has a “theme” that tells visitors what they can expect to see throughout the park and helps them narrow down their choices by age and interest.
A lesser-known but still highly popular side of Disney is its water parks: Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach. For those looking to shop without visiting a crowded park, there’s always Disney Springs, Orlando’s massive outdoor retail area complete with entertainment, shops, and dining.
Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure offer thrilling roller coasters and attractions inspired by popular movies and TV shows.
SeaWorld Orlando is another fantastic park you won’t want to miss. This unique park combines marine life exhibits and thrilling rides that can refresh your senses.
Furthermore, LEGOLAND Florida Resort provides an exceptional experience for LEGO fans with its LEGO-themed rides, shows, attractions, and Miniland USA.
The Weather
Orlando’s year-round warm climate attracts tourists worldwide. With an average temperature ranging from 70°F to 95°F throughout the year, it’s rare to find a cold day in Orlando.
This pleasant weather ensures that your vacation won’t be hampered when you visit world-famous beaches like Daytona Beach or Cocoa Beach nearby.
Additionally, Florida’s sunny disposition makes it ideal for outdoor activities such as hot air ballooning or golfing in one of the numerous golf courses scattered around the area.
Even “hurricane season” doesn’t scare most visitors away. Contrary to myths and exaggerated stories, most of these storms are little more than tropical thunderstorms.
Unlike blizzards, tornadoes, and earthquakes that affect the rest of the country, hurricanes are visible far in advance in case you need to adjust your trip’s timing.
The Beautiful Scenery
When exploring Orlando and its surroundings, you’ll be mesmerized by Florida’s natural beauty—apart from lush green landscapes dotted with lakes that offer kayaking and fishing opportunities. The city is home to scenic parks that provide serenity away from the bustling entertainment scene.
Lake Eola Park, located in downtown Orlando, offers a peaceful oasis with picturesque lake and walking paths.
Also, the Harry P. Leu Gardens provide a tranquil retreat with over 50 acres of sprawling gardens showcasing various flora, including camellias, roses, and azaleas. Different ecosystems can be observed at Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve, where you can unwind on nature trails or engage in birdwatching.
The Unique Attractions
Orlando offers numerous unique attractions beyond its theme parks. The ICON Orlando observation wheel provides breathtaking 360-degree views of the city from 400 feet up.
For those seeking a thrilling adventure, Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park boasts zip lines and aerial obstacle courses among towering trees.
A visit to Orlando isn’t complete without a trip to the nearby Kennedy Space Center. Located just an hour’s drive from the city, the center offers an immersive look into America’s space program, from the early days of the Mercury and Apollo missions to present-day plans for Mars exploration.
You can even watch live rocket launches and meet astronauts.
The Shopping Scene
If you’re looking for more than just theme parks and attractions, Orlando is also a haven for serious shoppers. You’ll find many shopping options in the city, from exclusive designer brands to budget-friendly options, at several premium outlets and shopping centers, including The Mall at Millenia, The Florida Mall, and Orlando International Premium Outlets.
For one-of-a-kind gifts and souvenirs, Winter Park’s Park Avenue and Disney Springs offer visitors an unforgettable shopping experience.
The Sports and Recreation
Orlando is well known for its sports franchises, such as the NBA’s Orlando Magic and the MLS’s Orlando City Soccer Club. Additionally, several world-class golf courses cater to players of all skill levels.
For those who prefer outdoor adventures, Orlando’s many theme parks provide thrilling rides, attractions, and water parks for adrenaline junkies. Visitors can also embark on guided airboat tours through Florida’s lush Everglades or rent equipment for wakeboarding, canoeing, or paddleboarding on the city’s many lakes.
The Dining Scene
Orlando’s diverse culinary landscape offers numerous opportunities to explore international cuisines as well as local favorites. Award-winning restaurants in the city serve mouth-watering meals prepared by world-class chefs using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Visitors looking for a more interactive dining experience can participate in food tours that blend tastings with fascinating insights into the city’s culinary history and culture.
The Nightlife and Entertainment
The entertainment scene in Orlando is truly vibrant, with options for every taste and interest. Partygoers can dance the night away at numerous trendy clubs that play various music genres or enjoy live performances by popular artists at concert venues throughout the city.
Comedy clubs, themed bars, and dinner shows add even more variety to the city’s diverse nightlife options.
The History and Culture
Orlando boasts a rich history waiting to be explored by enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. The city has several museums, including the Orange County Regional History Center, which features exhibits on Central Florida’s past, and the Mennello Museum of American Art, showcasing works by American artists.
Additionally, visitors can learn about Orlando’s unique architectural history by taking walking tours of its historic neighborhoods. The city also celebrates its past through various cultural events throughout the year.
The Events and Festivals
Orlando hosts a variety of exciting events all year round that cater to everyone’s interests. From the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, where visitors can indulge in cuisine and beverages from all over the world, to the vibrant Orlando Pride Parade, which spreads messages of love and equality.
At the Florida Film Festival, film enthusiasts have the chance to catch screenings of independent movies. Meanwhile, art lovers can explore the Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival and browse the colorful works of local and international artists.
There’s always something new and exciting happening in this amazing city throughout the year. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning guest, Orlando is definitely worth a visit.