5 Awesome Things to Do in Orlando (Beyond the Theme Parks)

We know all about the epic parks. Find out what else to put on your list.

Posted: November 12, 2018 03:15 PM ET

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Given that it’s home to seven of the world’s most legendary amusement parks, there’s no denying that Orlando is the Theme Park Capital of the World^®. But beyond the world-class water parks, roller coasters and iconic characters, the city offers a lot of charm and value beyond its official title. Here are five more reasons for you and your family to visit this year.

1.  You can explore cool neighbourhoods

Tourists who only head to the theme parks miss out on all the local appeal. With a car, though, you can cover some pretty amazing ’hoods—from trendy to posh, hipster to historic. Winter Park, for example, is the original snowbird retreat for wealthy northerners and is now a not-to-miss upscale neighbourhood. There’s also romantic Ivanhoe Village for vintage shopping and stellar spa treatments, or College Park, where Jack Kerouac wrote On the Road.

2. You’ll be able to catch a game

If you have a sports fan in your clan, check out who’s playing at the Amway Center in downtown Orlando. The sports complex is home to the Orlando Magic NBA basketball team and the Orlando Solar Bears (yes, Orlando has a hockey team). And if soccer is more your family’s speed, check out a match at the new Orlando City Stadium, also right downtown.

3. You’ll find incredible shopping

You may default to thoughts of discount outlet malls and mega fashion centres—which, of course, you’ll have no problem finding—but Orlando’s diverse shopping selections range from upscale to small, eclectic shops. Head to Winter Park for high-fashion finds—even if it’s only window shopping—or peruse the funky vintage shops in the Milk District.

4. You can eat your heart out

Orlando has a thriving foodie scene to satisfy any appetite, from swanky multi-course cuisine to casual mouth-watering eats, and every neighbourhood has plenty of options. Mills 50, a very up-and-coming area, is brimming with authentic Asian restaurants. If you’re in the mood for Mexican, check out Black Rooster Taqueria; the BBQ at Pig Floyd’s is another must. Every Tuesday night, food trucks congregate by the unique shops in the Milk District, and for some elevated local fare, try The Rusty Spoon on Church Street.

5. You can discover the other (slightly quirky) family activities

Pack some very cool attractions into your itinerary for excellent value (and the perfect plan B for a rainy day). There’s the epic Orlando Science Center, with four floors of immersive exhibits. Or spend the day exploring Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, the Orlando Odditorium and Madame Tussauds wax museum for some very Instagrammable moments.

There’s so much more to do in Orlando!

Find out everything you need to know about the unique neighbourhoods, awesome activities and excellent restaurants and shops at VisitOrlando.ca.

Image credit: Visit Orlando