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)

The Club at Firestone

Ensconced within a former Firestone garage, this giant venue has long been rated one of the southeast’s top dance clubs, particularly with gays, ravers, and all types trendy. Although gay-only nights are gone, the Club continues to pump out house, hip-hop, and trance music for “the community.” The upstairs Glass Chamber is a relaxing chill-out room with comfy couches.
The Crystal Palace

Meet Pooh and his cohorts for American buffet breakfasts, lunches, and dinners in Magic Kingdom (park adm required).
The Groove

This powerhouse dance club has slamming DJs, as well as several quiet chill-out lounges.
The Gulf Beaches

Western Pinellas County has more than 30 miles (48 km) of white-sand, low-surf, warm-water beaches that are highly popular throughout the year. St. Pete Beach, Treasure Island, Madeira Beach, and Clearwater Beach are among the many headliners.
The Ice Factory

Get out of the Florida sun and do a few laps on this ice rink, which also has a kids’ play area.
The Magic Carpets of Aladdin

This gentle ride is Adventure-land’s first new attraction in 30 years.
The Magic Kingdom Park

The park that started Disney’s Florida empire combines fantasy, adventure, and the future in a package of rides and shows that focuses on Disney movies and TV programs. (see The Magic Kingdom® Park).
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh

Pooh created controversy when he replaced Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride in 1999, but he’s since won converts.
The Palm

Think high-end steaks, often belly-busters (up to a 36-oz [1.2-kg] strip for two) but don’t overlook the lobster option.
The Peabody Ducks

It all began in the 1930s when a couple of inebriated sportsmen returning from a weekend hunting trip thought it would be funny to put live ducks in the Peabody Hotel’s lobby fountain. The joke stuck and now the original ducks’ descendants are local celebrities. They march down from their penthouse at 11am, via the elevator, and return at 5pm.

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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