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These two-hour, pontoon-boat cruises specialize in safely allowing visitors a closer look at endangered manatees (see Shows & Other Attractions). Sightings of these gentle creatures are most frequent from late October to late March, but year round, expect to see alligators, bald eagles, snakes, deer, and more.

Pleasure Island’s 21-and-over dance club is the real deal, not some Mickey Mouse knock-off of a modern club. The decor is surprisingly dark and foreboding, with an eerie industrial interior that wouldn’t look out of place in a dominatrix den. The dance floor revolves while the DJs spin techno and house. If hip, young celebrities are visiting Disney, they’ll likely end up here at some point. (see Mannequins Dance Palace).

A hot spot for dance fans, with a revolving floor, trendy ambience, and pumping techno. (see Mannequins)

The panorama from the floor-to-ceiling windows in this often lively 28th-floor eatery is unbeatable. The menu changes each season and might feature phyllo-wrapped lamb loin with spinach-boursin stuffing, yellowfin tuna in a green curry-and-ginger crust, and Chilean sea bass with lump crab. Manuel’s has one of the best wine lists in town.

Guests here rave about the superb views and international menu, which includes Atlantic sea scallops with crushed macadamia nuts.

The ultimate ‘Big Easy’ party, with parades, music, and lots of beaded necklaces.

The seafood bastilla (pastry filled with fish, shrimp, mushroom, vermicelli, onion, and egg) is heavenly. Garlicky lemon chicken ranks a close second.

Marriott’s timeshare program covers five Orlando locations. The apartments and villas can also be rented by the week. Some of the villas have screened patios or porches, and facilities include activity programs, fitness centers, golf-course privileges, tennis courts, clubhouses, and saunas.

The 2,000 rooms at this 28-story tower tend to be a bit smaller than others in this price category, but they come with plenty of in-room features. The resort boasts a wide array of facilities including a spa and the biggest pool in town.