What to see and do in Orlando – a guide to notable attractions

When you’re known for being ‘The Capital of Theme Parks’, it’s highly likely visitors aren’t going to pass their time idly twiddling their thumbs. Indeed, if you do come to Orlando, you can expect to spend your days spinning around on rollercoasters, splashing down log flumes, meeting your Disney heroes, hitting a hole in one, flashing your cash on International Drive or munching your way through the buffet of your life. In short, Orlando is an action-packed city where entertainment is right on your doorstep. 

DisneyWorld

 

As Orlando’s premier attraction, the Walt Disney Theme Parks are a haven for families. Containing world-class amusements contained in a total of four parks, here you can enjoy safaris at the Animal Kingdom, watch fireworks at Epcot Center, tour backstage at Hollywood Studios or watch the unforgettable Disney parade at Magic Kingdom. With Cinderella’s Castle as a background to your stay, you will meet and greet some of your favorite characters and stock up on souvenirs to bring home as a mementos.

 

Universal Studios

 

Get involved in the recreation of film and television productions at Universal Studios. Ride along on thrilling rollercoasters to can escape from Jaws, run away from Terminators or laugh along with The Simpsons. Why not live the adventure at Universal’s Islands of Adventure? Or, if you are fan or witchcraft and wizardry, visit the newly opened Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Based south-west of Orlando, jump on the I-RIDE Trolley to get to the Universal Studios.

 

SeaWorld

 

A marine-life zoological park that is coupled with a theme park, immerse yourself in the wonders of SeaWorld. Why not ride the mighty Manta or marvel at the educational One Ocean shows with all the family? You can easily spend a whole day in Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin or admire the 360 voyage of TurtleTrek. Relax in comfort at the many green spaces and gaze on the marine wildlife as they glide by in their well-equipped tanks whilst having a picnic lunch.

 

Boggy Creek

 

Why not experience Orlando’s natural side by riding one of four airboat adventures, showcasing the best Everglades experience? Bounce through Florida’s swamplands through Boggy Creek and marvel at the region’s natural landscape. Passing by flocks of exotic birds, gliding turtles and the Florida alligator, you will feel you are flying through the wetlands in a 45mph airboat. Only minutes from other Orlando’s attractions, you will truly experience the ‘Real Florida’ at East Lake, only 10 minutes from Orlando Airport. For an even more authentic back-to-nature experience, you can pitch up a tent at their resident campground for the night.

 

Golf

 

Orlando, Florida is one of the world’s top golfing locations and with over 170 courses scattered around the region there are few places on earth better suited to practising your game. For those looking for some tuition, golf academies are scattered around the area, along with driving ranges to help hone your swing. Courses range in difficulty from those aimed with beginners in mind to the trickier PGA courses geared towards the more experienced. Many are close to hotels or International Drive, so not far to carry your clubs.