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)

Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show

High-energy performers from Hawaii, New Zealand, and Tahiti show off their hula, ceremonial, and fire-dancing in an open-air theater. Meanwhile, tuck into the all-you-can-eat meal, which includes roast pork and chicken, fried rice, vegetables, and fruit. Learn how to make leis and do the hula in the pre-show.
Splash Mountain

Prepare to get wet on this deep-drop ride unless you wear protective clothing. In summer, it’s a cooling trip; at any time of year it’s one to enjoy as a spectator from the bridge between Frontierland and Adventureland. Even in that relative safety you may get drenched. (see Orlando’s Highlights) (Magic Kingdom).
Sports Dominator

Giant, stern-faced effigies of sports people flank the entrance – one muscle-bound guy wearing tight pants looks like a reject from the Village People.
Springhill Suites

This pleasant suite hotel located in the Marriott Village is close to Disney. All the suites have a king-size or two double beds, plus separate living and cooking areas.
Staybridge Suites Lake Buena Vista

The friendly staff and size of the suites make this an attractive choice for those who want to be near to, but not in, the clutches of Mickey. Rates include continental breakfast, and all suites have kitchens.
Staying in a Disney Property

Disney Resort Guests can enjoy a magical assortment of benefits making dream holidays come true.

Extra Magic Hours – Extra time in one Theme Park each day lets you enjoy select attractions at a more leisurely pace. Valid theme park admission and Resort ID required.

Guest Transportation – Zip around on complimentary and convenient transportation.

Shopping Delivered to your Hotel - Rather than carrying your purchases around with you each day, arrange to have them sent back to your hotel for collection.

Key to the World - Activate your resort ID to pay for any purchases you make so you will never need to worry about having enough money on you.
Studz Orlando

This popular high energy club welcomes both gays and straights. There’s live entertainment, as well as pool, darts and karaoke nights.
Summer Bay Resort

Accommodation at Summer Bay ranges from one-bedroom condos to three-bedroom villas; all have washers and dryers. The property has a clubhouse and offers a Friday-night luau (traditional Hawaiian meal).
Summit Plummet

No water park ride will tangle up your bathing suit faster than this 120-ft (36-m), partial-darkness ride. It starts slow, but ends in a near vertical drop that has you plummeting at 60 mph (96 kmph). It’s not for the weak of heart or those under 48 inches (122 cm). (see Water Parks) (Blizzard Beach).
Surfing

In land-locked Orlando? You bet. According to the state’s surf addicts, who sometimes rent the park after hours, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon has wave-making down to a fine art. But you don’t have to be a pro to give it a try. Carroll’s Cocoa Beach Surfing School puts on a twice-weekly class for beginners.

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Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under $90
- $90–180
- $180–250
- over $250