Orlando is, of course, known for its world-class theme parks, but it also has lesser-known attractions that are worth your vacation time to experience. Here we highlight some of our favorites, and we can help you arrange transportation to these not-to-be-missed Orlando experiences.
1: Gatorland
Gatorland is a 110-acre wildlife park, combining “Old Florida” charm with exhibits and exciting entertainment. The park opened as a roadside attraction in 1949. Today, it provides affordably priced family fun featuring thousands of alligators and crocodiles, a free flight aviary, a breeding marsh with observation tower, a petting zoo, nature trails, a train ride and a splash park. You won’t want to miss the popular Gator Wrestlin’ Show, Gator Jumparoo and up-close encounter opportunities! Looking for more thrills? Try the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line and Stompin’ Gator Off-Road Adventure.
2: Flavors of Winter Park — Foodie Walking Tour
Stroll along the quaint brick streets of Winter Park’s Park Avenue, which is home to many internationally themed and locally owned boutique restaurants, sampling amazing cuisine for two and a half hours. During your guided visit, you will learn about the rich history of the area that is just 20 minutes northeast of downtown Orlando as you enjoy a delicious selection of food and drinks at six tasting stops. Most foods are gluten-free and, with advanced notice, the guides will try to accommodate food allergies with substitutions. This tour is popular with first-time visitors and locals alike both for the culinary experience and the knowledgeable guides.
3: ICON Park
Located in the heart of International Drive, ICON Park offers several larger-than-life attractions, including The Wheel, an observation ride that stands 400 feet tall, and the Orlando StarFlyer, the nation’s tallest swing ride. The entertainment complex also features plenty of fun for the whole family with the famous Madame Tussauds Orlando wax attraction, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, In The Game, 7D Motion Theater, Museum of Illusions and the toddler-sized Pearl Express Train. Plus, you can grab a bite at one of 40 amazing restaurants and bars, such as celebrity-favorite Sugar Factory, or shop at boutique stores for the perfect souvenir.
4: Orlando Watersports Complex
A great way to beat the Florida heat is a visit to the Orlando Watersports Complex, where you can wakeboard, wakeskate, water ski and kneeboard or visit the giant inflatable Aquapark. Two lakes with cable systems and one dedicated to boats means there is plenty of room for first-timers, novices and advanced riders and skiers. Lessons have a “Get Up Guarantee,” and gear is available in the Pro Shop. If you’re vacationing at the right time, you can even watch a professional water ski and wakeboard tournament or the wakeboard college national competition.
5: Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Whether you know a little or a lot about space travel, a visit to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is a must when vacationing in Orlando. From the dawn of space exploration to current missions, you can get an up-close, hands-on feel for the story of humans in space. Witness the size and scale of the Saturn V moon rocket, and feel the emotion of the Apollo era with an immersive collection of experiences. Stand in awe of the actual space shuttle Atlantis at its permanent home. Numerous interactive simulators allow you to experience many aspects of space flight, including being strapped into a shuttle to pilot a launch. Kennedy Space Center is about an hour’s drive from downtown Orlando.
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