from $1,864
Orlando is famous for two things: Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando. However, given the chance the city will impress. This lively, friendly Florida destination has much more to offer than just amusement parks. However, there's no getting around it - those amusement parks are spectacular. Visitors can spend weeks trying all the rides at Walt Disney World. If you are simply looking for a fabulous family destination, look no further. Back in town, Downtown Orlando is well worth exploring. There are the world-class pottery and jewelry exhibits at the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, gourmet restaurants like Ceviche Tapas or Amura, and sporting venues like the Amway Center, home of the NBA's Orlando Magic. So don't bypass Orlando when heading to Florida. Combine the best of both worlds by staying close to the amusement parks in one of the Sunshine State's friendliest Downtown districts.
Founded in 1971, Walt Disney World is America's number one amusement park, welcoming around 20 million visitors every year. It is divided into four separate and equally entertaining areas - the Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios. If you love rides, shows, and world cuisine, there's nowhere like it.
Universal Orlando is only slightly smaller than Walt Disney World and they make an incredible pair of attractions. Universal is the place to go for movie lovers who want to experience the all the excitement of their favorite films. From Harry Potter and the Simpsons to Despicable Me and Transformers, there are rides here to suit everyone.
Orlando's convenient location and wonderful climate have helped it to become one of the world's greatest golfing centers. Book a tee time at Mystic Dunes, Lake Nona, and Celebration, all of which are superbly crafted championship-level courses.
Orlando is also a great place to get acquainted with the natural world. You can watch spectacular marine shows at SeaWorld Florida, featuring killer whales and dolphins, see the alligators at Gatorland or the endangered Florida panthers at Forever Florida.
Orlando and the major amusement parks are fantastic places to sample cuisine from around the world. For example, Walt Disney World alone features French, Moroccan, British, Italian, Cajun, Indian, Japanese, and Hawaiian eateries (among many others). If you want to organize a culinary world tour, you'll never have a better opportunity.
Orlando is well-served by the LYNX bus network, which operates 60 different routes in the Metropolitan area. Buses 37 and 40 will take you to Universal Studios, while bus 50 stops at Walt Disney World. Wherever you go, the flat fare is $2 per journey.
If you are staying in central Orlando and don't want to rent a car, taxis are a good way to get to the major attractions. For example, a trip from Downtown Orlando to Walt Disney World will cost around $28, while reaching Universal Studios will cost about $32. There are plenty of reputable local companies, including Mears, Tiffany Towncars, and Ace Metro.
Orlando is a great city to rent a car, with an easy to navigate road network and plenty of parking at major hotels and attractions. However, traffic can be a problem, particularly on Fridays and Saturdays around the major attractions. You can call 511 to obtain up to the minute traffic information, which should make life easier.
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