One word describes Orlando’s transformation in the last three decades: stunning. The city and its suburbs have gone through a Cinderella-like metamorphosis, where plain Jane has become a worldly beauty. Millions of tourists are seduced every year by sophisticated resorts, a wide range of theme parks, must-see attractions, happening nightclubs, and winning restaurants. Here are Orlando’s best of the best.
More on the Top 10 sights in Orlando (see Thrill Rides)-
The art of film tastes different at the Enzian. This not-for-profit 250-seat theater doesn’t just show terrific American independent and foreign films, it also offers a full menu with beer, wine, and table service. Relax with dinner or snacks and enjoy films with all the comforts of sitting in your own living room (if that living room has a 33-ft (10-m) wide screen). As well as the regular schedule, the Enzian produces the 10-day Florida Film Festival and smaller, niche festivals throughout the year.
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The best boutique hotel in town offers mini-malist elegance with a personal touch. All rooms come with office facilities, and some overlook Lake Eola. Try the on-site spa (see Urban Spa at Eó Inn) if in need of pampering.
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Inquiring minds love this Disney park, which features technology in Future World and the culture, architecture and enticing food of 11 nations in World Showcase. (see Epcot®).
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Walt Disney’s guys knew something had to appeal to curious adults and techno kids. Epcot is that something. (see Epcot®).
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Disney chefs and sommeliers strut their stuff.
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A long-time favorite for local lesbians, this homey place is busiest on weekends, when DJs up the tempo with house music. The bar staff’s friendly vibe, plus pool, darts, and pinball, are other selling points. The first Saturday of each month is Latin night.
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The rooms are a step above most in this price category, and the majority are situated away from the noise of I-Drive traffic. The motel is located between Sea-World and the Universal parks, and it’s on The I-Ride Trolley circuit. Rates include continental breakfast.
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With just three water holes, the first nine may convince you to let your guard down, but seven of the last nine holes give you a chance to submerge a ball in two large lakes. This Rees Jones course opened in 1993 and hosts the Senior PGA Tour’s qualifying school. (Max yds: 6,901 [6,310 m]. USGA rating: 72.5.) (see Falcon’s Fire Golf Club).
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This immaculately groomed public golf course is often cited as one of the best in Florida.
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Orlando in general and Walt Disney World Resort in particular have some great golf courses (see Golf Courses), but not everyone likes to take the game so seriously, or has the makings of a pro. These two miniature golf courses offer a total of 72 holes of putting fun. Inspired by the classic Disney cartoon, Fantasia , Fantasia Gardens’ 18 holes have an animal theme. Located near Disney-MGM Studios, it’s the more forgiving of the two courses, and so the best choice for young kids or beginners. Winter Summerland is a scale model of a large course, complete with bunkers, water hazards, frustrating putting greens, and holes that are up to 75 ft (23 m) long. Choose between the winter and summer themed courses.
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Hotel price categories
For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
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