WHAT TO DO IN ORLANDO, FLORIDA.

Orlando, Florida is very well known for its theme parks. Some very well-known theme parks include Disney World, which comprises parks like the Magic Kingdom and Epcot, as well as water parks, Universal Studios, offers Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. After spending a few days in Orlando, I must say there is much more to Orlando than these theme parks. In Orlando, you will find Disney World, Disney Magic Kingdom, Universal Studios, Legoland, Disney Animal Kingdom, Disney Epcot city, just to name a few. There is more to Orlando than these theme parks, so here is a list of a few other entertainment activities, sightseeing places, and places you can visit when in Orlando.

These theme parks are very expensive and sometimes most of us want to make a trip to Orlando but cannot afford the tickets to several parks. So below are a few cheaper and free options to ensure you still have a great trip.

Lake Eola Park:

The park is if you are lucky, you will see some swans in the lake and you can also rent some of the small boats for a thirty minutes ride around the lake for fifteen US dollars. For those driving, I will recommend you park at the Publix store parking lot. 

Disney Magic Kingdom:

Disney Magic Kingdom is undoubtedly my favorite of all the Disney World theme parks. I am not into rollercoaster rides (if this is your thing then maybe you should visit Disney Hollywood Studios). Disney Magic Kingdom speaks for itself so be sure to visit. I will highly recommend you stay for the fireworks though; it is the most beautiful thing ever. Very spectacular and a magical night. The fireworks usually run from 8:15 to 8:30pm local time so do not miss it.

Celebration Town:

Celebration town located in Kissimmee Florida is a must visit. This is a very small city located about 25 mins from International drive. If you are driving, you can get free parking at the town center and talk a walk around the town. The buildings are very colorful so be prepared to take lots of pictures. You can also sit by the lake and enjoy the calming view. If you are hungry, stop by the cafes for some baked goods, there is also a Starbucks if you need something familiar to eat and drink. There are small, unique stores located at the center as well, in case you need to purchase some unique items and very fun mugs. I stopped by an artisan boutique and bought an Inis hand cream and toothpick holder.

The Icon Park:

 The Icon park is at the center of International drive and has many fun activities and lots of food options. There is also a gift shop where you can purchase some souvenirs. The Orlando eye is located at Icon Park so make sure to get on one of these to have a great view of Orlando from the sky. Ripley’s Believe or Not is also located at this location and Madame Tussauds is just one of the few attractions in this area so it is a must visit. 

Downtown Orlando:

Downtown Orlando is a few minutes from Lake Eola Park. Very lovely and full of many food options. I will say you can enjoy a 20 – 30 minutes’ walk. Take a picture by the murals and visit the Orlando city library.

Orlando Premium Outlet:

The Orlando premium Outlets boost so many stores, ranging from high end brands like Prada, Burberry, Gucci and other brands like Tory Bruch, Uggs, Nike Factory Store, DKNY, and Ralph Lauren just to name a few. So be sure to visit if you wish to spend some money. Be wary of the lines at some stores and there is limited parking so be prepared to circle around the block for a few and hope someone leaves so you can take their parking spot.

Dellagio Center:

 What is there not to love about the Dellagio Center. Very exotic and airy neighborhood. There is a beautiful shopping center that has a lake and a water fountain so stop by for some pictures. Drive around the private estates nearby, (note that some of these homes are in a gated community so you might not see much but it is worth the drive). There is also a very fancy Trader Joe’s so make sure to stop by.

The Pointe Orlando:

Stop by the Pointe Orlando for some pictures, food, and a visit to Wonderworks. There are some very good restaurants located at this location like the Capital Grille. If you are having a movie night, then you can visit Regal Cinema and IMAX.