DK Travel : Orlando

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)

Lake Eola Park

Burn a few calories on the 0.9-mile (1.4-km) trail that circles the lake here. Less energetic pursuits include feeding the birds and cruising Lake Eola in the swan-shaped rental boats (see Swan Boats In Lake Eola). This municipal park is also home to several annual and seasonal events, including the 4th of July fireworks show and the UCF-Shakespeare Festival (see Orlando-UCF Shakespeare Festival). (see Lake Eola Park).
Lake Eola Park

A pedestrian-only path encircles Lake Eola, offering a pleasing view of downtown’s skyline. Those willing to exert their leg muscles can rent swan-shaped paddle boats (see Swan Boats In Lake Eola). Real swans drift along in the lake’s shallow water and will venture onto dry land if offered a handful of the food that can be bought for small change. Plays and concerts are performed at the Walt Disney Amphitheater, a bandshell with surprisingly decent acoustics. Disney’s presence is more ostentatiously displayed with the rather incongruous Millennium clock located on the lake’s southern side.

Fountain, Lake Eola Park

Lake Eola Fountain, Lake Eola Park
Lake Kissimmee State Park

This is the third largest lake in Florida, which is why the park is one of the best bird-watching areas in the state. You might see bald eagles, and snail kites, as well as whooping and sandhill cranes. On the mammal side, residents include otters, wild turkeys, deer, and fox squirrels. On weekends, the park has a recreated 1876 cattle camp.
Lake Louisa State Park

You can fish (for bass and bream), swim, or paddle a canoe, but you’ll have to bring your own equipment. The beach has a bathhouse with showers, and there’s a picnic area. White-tail deer, wild turkeys, marsh rabbits, opossums, and raccoons are commonly seen, but don’t be surprised if a polecat (also known as a skunk!) cuts across your path.
Largo Lodge

You didn't have a choose your own destination, so I had to pick Orlando, the closest to Key Largo. Largo Lodge is the best kept secret in the keys. You can barely find it for the vegetation in front of the sign, go down a long spooky driveway, heavily planted with native plants, and there you find 6 little cottages, with kitchens, screen porches, and a big dock where you can watch the sunset.
Latin Quarter

Expect anything Latin – from food to dance lessons – at this energetic venue. A 13-piece Latin band is on most nights.
Le Spa de Moor

Located north of Orlando, Kathy Nicholson and her small staff offer a diverse menu that includes cellulite and detoxifying body wraps, aromatherapy treatments, mineralizing body buffs, French foot treatments, and body masks. There’s also a full line of massages as well as six-hour, multi-service packages.
LEGO Imagination Center

Kids love the play area, which has enough LEGO pieces to build almost anything. Inside, the cash registers sing as parents buy the latest Lego gadgets.
Liberty Tree Tavern

Buffet-style American fare, such as roasted turkey, flank steak, and ham, is served in a colonial setting.
Liberty Tree Tavern

Mickey and Goofy host the sit-down dinner “Liberate your Appetite” in the Magic Kingdom (park adm required).

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one, a glass of house wine, and all unavoidable extra charges including tax.
- under $20
- $20–$30
- $30–$45
- $45–$60
- over $60