Things to do in ORLANDO

Orlando is Florida's largest inland city and reported as the world's top travel destination. Most travelers journey to Walt Disney World and for good reasons. It's a luxury vacation, a family experience and the thrill of a lifetime. The theme parks are immense and somewhat intimidating. For great value and time conservation, planning is essential. Books, magazines, travel agents, Orange County Convention & Visitor Center and Walt Disney World Company are informative places to begin your journey.

Orlando's Historical Attractions

The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum boasts the world's largest display of Tiffany stained glass.

Orlando is host to the Imperial Tombs of China Exhibit at the Orlando Museum of Art. The show includes about 250 artifacts that span the time 500 BC to AD 1900. Culture is in abundance in Orlando, such as: The Bob Carr Performing Arts Center, the Orlando Opera Company, the Civic Theatre of Central Florida along with many local colleges. Listen to Beethoven's 9th, view the Southern Ballet or be awed by a Shakespearean Festival. The Plaza Theatre is a multipurpose facility with live musical revues.

The Orange county Historical Museum is open seven days a week where you can explore the past and the present. See a 1926 firehouse complete with antique fire trucks. Peer into a sinkhole at the Orlando Science Center. Test your skills on high tech computers and simulators creating images at this exciting hands-on facility.

Orlando's Botanical Attractions

The Harry P. Leu Gardens encompass 50 splendid acres and boast the largest camellia collection and rose garden in the South. The Bok Tower Gardens features a 255-foot singing tower with 57 bronze bells. The sanctuary contains beautiful reflecting pools among winding secluded pathways.

Orlando's Outdoor Attractions

An aerial view of Orlando is not complete without a hot-air balloon ride with Balloons by Renee. Balloon rides begin at sunrise and they also offer helium balloon decorating. Narrated air tours are available at Air Florida Charter Inc.

Amazing Animal Adventure emphasizes environmental awareness with amazing creatures like cheetahs, snakes, and tigers. Watch gator wrestling, gator jumparoo and snakes at Gatorland.

Malibu Grand Prix Castle has "Indy" style go-carts for adults. Video games, arcades, snack bar, miniature golf and softball/baseball cages are also at the castle. Laser tag games, video arcades, mini golf, shooting galleries and a fun house are at Mystery Fun.

House/Starbase Omega offers Old Tyme photo shots. Looking for more action: try Orlando Paintball. Movie Rider Orlando has a giant screen projection with surround sound making the journey more exciting.

Downtown Orlando

Away from the thrill rides, shows, and all the friendly critters is Church Street Station in downtown Orlando. Relax in a carriage ride through the downtown area. The Exchange Shopping Emporium is a Victorian three story impressive new/old fashion complex. Grand showrooms include Rosie O'Grady's, The Cheyenne Saloon, The Orchid Garden and Phineas Phogg. Three superb restaurants, Lili Marlene's, Crackers Seafood and Bar and The Cheyenne Barbeque provide a warm, inviting and lingering atmosphere. Unique shops as the Historic Railroad Depot will intrigue and delight you.

Commander Ragtime's Midway is family oriented fun, food and games. Stained glass windows, video games, an old fashion midway and a wine cellar holding over 5,000 bottles of wine catches the imagination of everyone.

So many sights to see and enjoy present a serious problem to visitors. It would take many days to enjoy all the sights, so pick and choose, and come back again and again.

ORLANDO