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)-
Book early for Disney’s most popular “chow-and-cheer” night. The jokes are silly, the stars dress in costumes from Broadway’s Oklahoma! , and if you don’t join in the sing-along fun, the actors and audience will keep on at you until you do. Dinner is all-you-can-eat fried-chicken and barbecue ribs; a vegetarian menu is available with 24 hours’ notice.
-
Enjoy horse riding on 750 acres (300 ha) of peaceful sandy trails. There are pony and hay rides, as well as friendly farm animals.
-
Saddle up for 45-minute trail rides at Grand Cypress Resort’s state-of-the-art equestrian center. There are horses suitable for all abilities of rider, and lessons are available in Western or English riding styles.
-
The Plaza has had a partial makeover recently. Some of the rooms have whirlpools; pool-side ones have balconies or patios. The pool is heated and there’s a spa, fitness center, and four lit tennis courts.
-
Wall-to-wall original folk art gives this giant venue a funky look. But like all things in the Disney empire, the decor hides a modern, smooth-running machine. HOB books amazing acts in every genre, from hip-hop to death-metal. Unlike many clubs, shows start and end on time, and the sound system is crystal clear. The one flaw is an incredible lack of seating with stage views, so be prepared to be on your feet all night.
-
One of Orlando’s best venues for live music with a wide variety of musical acts.
-
One of Winter Park’s top spots in which to be seen. Maybe the draw is the generous glasses of wine poured here, or the fact that the entire restaurant menu is available at the bar.
-
Here, various cuts of meat are chopped thick and cooked on a wood-burning grill. Portions are huge, particularly the salads and desserts. There are also seafood options.
-
Rooms at this inn are of the motel variety – sparse and small, but they do come with Nintendo consoles. Ask for a room at the rear to escape the noise of traffic. One child eats free with each paying adult in the restaurant. Efficiencies (small serviced apartments) are available.
-
This small but sensory gallery sells sculptures, ceramics, and other imaginative oddities made of metal, stone, clay, and wood.
-
Hotel price categories
For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
-
Restaurant price categories
For a three-course meal for one, a glass of house wine, and all unavoidable extra charges including tax.
Advertisement
-
-
lukmansani's Prague guide
lukman
-
TobinDane's Seattle guide
TobinD
-
tamunshen's Chicago guide
tamuns
-
-
-
Berlin guide
skrams
-
London guide
pukank
-
Merry in Madrid
travel
-
New York festivities
travel
-
Christmas in Vienna
travel
-




Get DK Top Ten Travel Guides on your iPhone & iPod Touch!




symbol, to start adding attractions to your
tailor-made travel guide.