When the winter blues set in, there’s nothing better than vacationing somewhere warm and sunny. So-called snowbirds love Florida for this reason, no matter whether they’re from the United States or abroad. The state has a destination for everyone, between sunning on the beach, ecotourism in the Everglades, the Miami nightlife, dining, and much else.
One of Florida’s biggest vacation targets is Orlando, a city that mirrors almost everything great about the state, save for the ocean.
When taking an Orlando vacation, the most popular and well-known activity is a trip to Disney World. Yet, there’s plenty to do in the area even if Mickey’s your enemy.
Check out this list of reasons to make a trip to Orlando, Florida your next vacation.
1. Stay Warm and Comfortable All Year
As you read, Orlando is a top destination for those looking to escape cold and dreary weather. Make no mistake—Folks hailing from warmer areas like visiting, too. They don’t have to go outside their comfort zone if they want to travel during autumn or winter.
Once you get to know the region, there’s no question why people love Orlando’s atmosphere.
It averages a high of 82° Fahrenheit and a low of 64°. The biggest downside is how rainy summer is, with showers about half the days on average. Still, that doesn’t interfere with the ever-popular winter escapes.
Plus, for some, rain enhances the exploration of tropical forests and swamps in the Orlando area. Rainfall provokes animal behavior you wouldn’t otherwise see and triggers new floral smells and visuals to enjoy.
Overall, tropical Orlando has a warm and comfortable atmosphere all year round. If you want to enjoy your surroundings without interruption, don’t forget the sunblock and bug spray!
2. Enjoy Local Eats
While Miami is often touted as Florida’s epicenter of fine dining and cultural richness, there are fantastic eateries and cultural centers all around the state.
Orlando is no exception. Countless options for both fast and fine dining line the streets of Orlando, waiting for you to take a bite.
You can find food and adult beverages hailing from Mexico downtown, cooked by a Mexican chef at woman-run Reyes Mezcaleria. If you have some Benjamins burning a hole in your pocket and fancy yourself a gourmand, check out Knife & Spoon at the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes.
Seafood lovers and fans of Caribbean cuisine love the bar Bahama Breeze, which serves cocktails, famed coconut shrimp, and features a kids menu. The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar has a unique menu. You can get delicious sushi and burgers too, for those who can’t stand raw fish.
Don’t worry if you miss a taste of something familiar. Chain favorites like Red Lobster, Olive Garden, The Cheesecake Factory, and more abound throughout Orlando.
3. An Orlando Vacation Means Rest and Relaxation
There are many thrilling activities in Orlando, but rest and relaxation is sometimes the goal of planning a vacation. Lucky for you, you can lay down in the sun and drink cocktails all day, if that’s what you want to do.
There are hundreds of resorts, hotels, and other places to stay in Orlando and nearby areas. If you want a little whimsy, visit one of the nearly 30 Disney Resorts. The Westgate resorts here offer both fun, family-oriented options with water parks as well as more mature options featuring normal pools.
If you’re on a tight budget, note that staying at a hotel is the more affordable corporate-run option, compared to resorts. If you’ll be out all day exploring the city, think about how many amenities you’ll use and whether they’re worth the cost.
On the other hand, you might be looking to get away from real life for a while, or need to take a break while the family hangs out at Disney. One of Orlando’s many fabulous resorts will help you achieve your vacation dreams. You can chill out and enjoy spa treatments, organized activities, room service, and more.
Consider Airbnb and similar sites for unique local stays. This way, you can direct your own tour or join a tour group to guide you through some of Orlando’s many sights and experiences. Airbnb and its competitors are also sometimes cheaper than hotels, and you can support Orlando locals by using it.
4. Support the Environment Through Ecotourism
Ecotourism is a long-popular and growing trend as more people become environmentally aware. You may not know the word but there’s no doubt you’re familiar with the concept. It includes activities in nature, like safaris, whale watching, hikes, and more.
In and around Orlando, a few of many options include kayaking among manatees in natural springs, birding in the Lake Apopka North Shore area, and even zip-lining through the forest.
5. Of Course… Disney World and Other Famed Theme Parks
Any list of things to do in Orlando is incomplete without a nod to the city’s many theme parks. Believe it or not, it’s home to more of them than any other location on Earth.
Everyone knows Disney World, but you can also check out Universal’s Island of Adventure, Busch Gardens, LEGOLAND Florida, and some smaller attractions.
If you think of screaming children, fried foods, and nausea-inducing thrill rides when imagining theme parks… Well, you’ll find plenty of that in Orlando. That said, there’s no lack of tranquil conservatories, fine dining, and other adult-oriented activities within the city’s amusement parks.
For example, did you know there’s a Madame Tussauds wax museum in Orlando? You won’t see as many living, breathing stars in Orlando as you would near the better-known Hollywood location, but you can enjoy their doppelgängers’ waxy, uncanny gazes just the same. That’s one example, but there are many other interesting amusement parks and museums in the city and nearby.
Get Your Life in Order With Valuable Tips and Tricks
These reasons to make your next trip an Orlando vacation are the perfect excuse to set off on a new adventure. Whether you’re waiting for the fun to start or relaxing in the Florida sun, some reading material will keep your mind sharp as you pass the time.
We have the perfect collection of light reading on vacationing, automotive tips, staying well, and other lifestyle topics. Take a look around our website and pick another article for an easy way to improve your life.
