Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Orlando Airport Hotels

Staying at one of the Orlando airport hotels is a convenient way to go if you are arriving late on a flight or plan on leaving on one the following days. But that's not all that they are convenient for. Guests who stay at one of the airport hotels in Orlando will not only be close to the airport, but also relatively close to such destinations as Sea World and Universal Studios. While one of the Orlando airport hotels can be found in the heart of the airport itself, the rest of them can be found just to the north off of Route 436. None of the airport hotels in Orlando are necessarily luxurious, save for one, but you can expect a clean and comfortable stay at all of them. Some will offer more in the way of comfort and amenities, so you can choose the more upscale options if you please. For those on a tight budget, finding a cheap accommodation near the Orlando Airport will be the better way to go.

If it's comfort and service that you seek over everything else when it comes to Orlando Airport lodging, the Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport Hotel is your best bet. It's the most luxurious of the airport hotels in Orlando, and it's also the only one that is found so close to the terminals. In fact, just below the main lobby of the hotel is where you will find airline ticket counters and baggage retrieval stations. You can hardly get more convenient than that. As for the rooms and suites at the Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport Hotel, they are all divine and feature signature beds, ample work space, a marble bathroom, an iPod stereo, free daily newspapers, cable television, individual climate control, a private balcony, and so much more. Room service is available around the clock, as is concierge service if you want help with things like planning an area tour or finding good restaurants. Of course, you can find a good restaurant at the hotel itself, not to mention a bar and a sports lounge. When you find yourself with time to spare, you can go shopping at the airport, fit in a workout in the onsite gym, relax in the courtyard, or perhaps take a dip in the hotel's heated pool. State-of-the-art business facilities can also be found at the Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport, so it's just as ideal for business travelers as it is leisure travelers.

The Sheraton Suites Orlando Airport Hotel is just one mile north of the airport, so while it's not as close to the terminals as the Hyatt Regency is, you're but a quick hop and a jump away. As is the case at the Hyatt, internet access at the Sheraton Suites costs extra. Quite a lot of other amenities are included in the rates, however, which helps to make this hotel a good bet. While not exactly your best choice if you're looking for a cheap accommodation near the Orlando Airport, the rates here are fair, especially when you consider the overall experience. The 150 tastefully-decorated suites at the Sheraton Suites Hotel are all keen on amenities, with things like 37-inch flat-screen TVs and signature bath products among the in-room perks. Other in-room amenities include a refrigerator, a microwave, a signature Sheraton bed, in-room movie options, and a safety deposit box. Outside the rooms, lunch and dinner can be enjoyed in the hotel's grille and lounge restaurant, and there are two heated pools to splash around in, one outside, the other inside. In addition to the restaurant and the pools, the Sheraton Suites also boasts a fitness room, a hot tub, and a concierge desk. While parking costs extra here, guests can take advantage of complimentary airport transportation services.

The Holiday Inn Select Orlando International Airport hotel is another excellent lodging choice if it's comfort and a good amount of amenities that you're after. The guest rooms here are definitely geared more towards business travelers, but that doesn't mean that they aren't also ideal for leisure travelers. The decor of the rooms and of the larger suites is pleasant, besting most standard hotel rooms in appearance. In addition to a tasteful design, the rooms also come with some nice perks. In-room movies are available for a fee, or you can relax and enjoy the premium cable stations. Video games can also be rented. Other amenities include a coffee maker, a free daily newspaper, a work desk, voice mail capabilities, air-conditioning, an iron, an ironing board, and complimentary internet access. The bathrooms in each guest unit are clean, and feature bathtubs and hair dryers. A large outdoor pool figures among the facilities at the Holiday Inn Orlando Airport Hotel, as does a hot tub, a gift shop, a business center, and some recreational sports courts. With all that it has to offer for the price, the Holiday Inn is one of the better overall bets for Orlando Airport lodging if you don't want to spend too much.

While the aforementioned Orlando Airport hotels are great, they might not fit into everyone's budget. Also, some travelers just prefer to save money, whether they have it or not. That's where the discount airport hotels in Orlando come in handy. There are a handful of choices for these lesser-priced Orlando Airport lodging choices, including the La Quinta Inn and Suites, which offers rates that are pretty hard to top anywhere else in the city. Sure, the rooms here aren't anything to write home about, but they are clean and provide most travelers with everything that they could want or need. Five of the 148 rooms here are larger suites if you want added space, and included in the already friendly rates are a complimentary breakfast, free local calls, a complimentary daily newspaper, and internet access. In each room you'll find a coffee maker, a hair dryer, an iron and ironing board, an alarm clock, and cable TV. As for hotel facilities, they include a nice courtyard, a heated outdoor pool, a hot tub, a fitness center, and laundry facilities. Airport shuttle services are available, which is the case at all the Orlando Airport hotels. So many great central Florida attractions are within a 20 mile radius of the La Quinta Inn and Suites, including Sea World, Gatorland, and the Orlando Science Center , so it's a great bet even if you're not flying in or out of Orlando.

Christmas in Orlando

Christmas in Orlando can see area residents and visitors alike enjoying any number of fun holiday season events and activities. Regional theme parks such as the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World, are where some of the best and most popular Orlando Christmas events can be enjoyed, and you might also keep the Gaylord Palms Resort in mind, thanks to everything that it has to offer. When you're not enjoying events and activities that are related to Christmas during your holiday season visit to Orlando, you can indulge in all the regular area attractions, such as the many world-class golf courses and the theme park rides. There's always something going on in this Florida vacation hotspot, and it's definitely a fine place to be during the Christmas season.

The Orlando Christmas Parade is one of the best holiday season events that can be enjoyed in Orlando. Held on a Saturday in mid-December, this fun event takes to a mile-long route in the downtown area. Lake Eola Park is where the festivities take place. While watching the Orlando Christmas Parade, you can expect to see celebrities, marching bands, and some cool floats during the 3:30 to 5 p.m. procession. Immediately following the parade is the Santa Salutes The Stars Holiday TV special. The Lake Eola Amphitheater serves as the venue for this fun event, which features plenty of celebrity performers, not to mention Santa and his helpers. Reserved seating for the Santa Salutes The Stars special is priced to please. Worth noting is the fact that Lake Eola Park offers an ice skating rink that is open for around ten days in mid-December. Both retail and food vendors can be found near the rink on the weekends, and Sundays see the opening of a Farmers Market.

Should you find yourself looking for things to do in Orlando during the Christmas season, heading over to the Gaylord Palms Resort at can be a good idea. Found at 6000 West Osceola Parkway in Kissimmee, this Orlando area resort offers plenty to keep its visitors busy, especially during the holiday season. Among the holiday season attractions that you can enjoy at the Gaylord Palms Resort is ICE!. This attraction is an ice-carved wonderland that is housed inside a chilled building. The exhibits cover more than 18,000 square feet and includes two 30-foot slides. Approximately 2 million pounds of ice are used to carve out the ICE! attraction, and the artisans primarily hail from China.

When you're not enjoying the ICE! attraction at the Gaylord Palms Resort, you can see what SNOW! A North Pole Carnival has to offer. This attraction features plenty of white and fluffy snow for visitors to play with, and there are also carnival games and carnival food to enjoy.

Celebrating Christmas in Orlando is a very popular thing to do with families from all over the world. This has a lot to do with the festive atmospheres that are on offer at the area theme parks. The Walt Disney World Resort theme parks, which include the Magic Kingdom and Epcot, are certainly converted into winter wonderlands during the holiday season, and it's no different at places like Sea World and Universal Orlando. Many of the Orlando Christmas vacation packages include a theme park visit, and you can also find ones that have you staying at one of the theme park hotels.

There are Orlando Christmas vacation packages that offer something for everyone, and they most often include deals on the various things that they include. Booking your package deal as soon as possible is recommended, as the holiday season is a very busy season for Orlando travel. Flights to Orlando during the Christmas season fill up fast, and the same can be said of the rooms and suites at some of the top hotels. You can include your flight and your hotel room when booking Orlando Christmas vacation packages, and this can help simplify the process.

Suggested Itineraries in Orlando

Suggested itineraries Orlando all include directions to the beach, and for good reason. Florida beaches are warm and sunny year round and among some of the nicest in North America. The cities that have grown around these beach attractions reflect the flavor of the cultural mix of the coast. While suggested itineraries for Florida may be all about the beaches, there are some great city sights and attractions worth checking out, as well.

Suggested itinerary Orlando:

1-3 Days

Most folks looking at a suggested itinerary in Orlando Florida make plans to head to the magic kingdom. Whether or not you have brought along children, you may also want to spend time at Universal Studios and Walt Disney World. Fun for young and old can also be had at Sea World Orlando, where you can watch dolphins, whales, and other sea creatures do their thing.

4-7 Days

Your suggested itinerary Orlando with a few days can also include more time spent at the various theme parks. In addition, you can take the kids shopping or simply go yourself at the famous Orlando Premium Outlets. You can also tour the Orlando Science Center, head to Wet ‘n Wild to cool off on the slides, or check out Gatorland.

7+ Days

If you have multiple days to spend in Orlando, you might consider taking a side trip in addition to all of the activities mentioned above. A day trip to Tampa is a great idea, and the city has some great attractions. Near Tampa is the Islands of Adventure, which is Universal Studio’s second theme park in Florida.

However you choose to organize your Florida vacation, trips to Miami and Orlando are quite popular due to the excellent beaches and great theme parks that characterize the state. Pack your bags and choose your flight to Florida- the state is waiting for you.

Orlando Vacations

With so many different things to do in Orlando, your vacation in Orlando is guaranteed to be a time to remember. From theme parks and amusement parks to shopping malls, golf courses, and spas, there are an array of attractions in Orlando to delight a diverse range of travelers. Whether your trip to Orlando is with your significant other, friends, or the entire family, there are enough attractions in Orlando to satisfy everyone in your group.

There are a wide variety of attractions to see on Orlando trips. Golfers will enjoy spending a relaxing day out on one of the many Orlando golf courses, or brushing up on their techniques at one of the city's many golf academies. Those hoping to have a more luxurious vacation in Orlando can pamper themselves to their hearts' content at the spas and resorts in Orlando. There you can get a wide variety of massages, body treatments, facials, and nail and hair services. In addition, you can use pools, saunas, and fitness centers at these spas. Shoppers on vacation in Orlando will be delighted by Orlando's shopping possibilities, which range from budget stores to international designer outposts. There are nine regional malls such as The Mall at Millenia, as well as luxury shopping at the Winter Park neighborhood's Park Avenue and also bargains awaiting you at Orlando flea markets.

A tour of the local sights is another important part of many Orlando vacations. To see the attractions with the advantage of a knowledgeable guide's insights, book Orlando tours, which can take you all over the city. Some focus on downtown attractions such as Lake Eola and Park Avenue, while others focus on particular points of interest such as the Kennedy Space Center and the Astronaut Hall of Fame. For those looking to book deals, a tour is a good idea. Look for tours including several destinations that you want to see, or ones that include the price of admission to attractions.

For those going on Orlando vacations with family, you will have plenty of choices for family-friendly entertainment. There are numerous Orlando parks that are fun for children and adults. Some of the most popular parks are Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld Orlando, and others to consider are Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, Gatorland, and Wet 'n Wild Orlando, The Fun Spot Action Park, and G Force Drag Racing.

No matter what kind of Orlando trips you are planning, you will have to book Orlando accommodation. Orlando has many different types of accommodation available, from luxury hotels and budget hotels to private Orlando vacation rentals at homes, apartments, condos, and villas. If you research and book accommodation for Orlando trips in advance you can score great deals on Orlando vacations, but even if you wait until the last minute to book, you may still be able to find Orlando deals. You may also have to book airfare for your Orlando trips. For those who are planning a cheap Orlando vacation, one way to save money is by booking your flight and hotel together with vacation packages to Orlando. Such packages can also include tickets to Orlando attractions.

With so many diverse attractions and things to do in Orlando, Orlando trips are sure to be fun and memorable for all different kinds of travelers.

Orlando Airport

The Orlando International Airport is one of the busiest airports in Florida , as millions of vacationers come to Orlando every year looking to enjoy the area theme parks, golf courses, restaurants, and more. While most visitors who are arriving on flights to Orlando choose the Orlando International Airport as their point of entry, you can also consider booking a flight that lands at the other Orlando airport. The Orlando Sanford International Airport does accept some commercial flights, though it is farther away from downtown Orlando. In addition to being closer to downtown Orlando, the Orlando International Airport is also closer to attractions such as Sea World, Universal Studios, and Walt Disney World, making it your best bet overall. You can catch a nonstop flight to the Orlando International Airport from more than 20 international destinations, while U.S. residents can choose from more than 60 different cities.

The main airport in Orlando is consistently rated as one of the best airports in the nation, and it is both modern and user-friendly. Due to the fact that there are an ample amount of information kiosks spread about the airport, finding things like your luggage, a rental car, and other forms of transportation to your hotel is a breeze. When you find yourself with some time to burn at the Orlando International Airport, there are a ton of shops and restaurants that you can patronize, so it's hard to get bored. You'll even find a Disney merchandise store here, a Sea World store, and a surf shop. As for the restaurants at the airport in Orlando, they include fast food favorites, a few coffee houses, some casual establishments, and a fine dining option. Once you arrive on your flight to Orlando, you might be too tired to shop, eat, or do much of anything else for that matter. Should that be the case, you can always book a stay at the upscale Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport Hotel, which offers 446 ultra-comfortable rooms. If the Hyatt Regency Hotel is a bit more expensive than what you had in mind, there are some cheaper Orlando airport hotels close by. They might not be quite as comfortable and convenient as the Hyatt Regency, which is actually located within the airport's main terminal building, but they are worthy lodging options nonetheless.

If you're not staying at one of the Orlando Airport hotels, then you might head to one of the rental car desks to get yourself some wheels. For those who are interested in renting a car in Orlando, you'll find just about every major car rental company at the airport. Some of the top rental car companies, such as Alamo, Avis, and Hertz, also have a presence at the Orlando Sanford International Airport if you are arriving there instead. Getting back to the main airport in Orlando , it is just 20 miles east of downtown Orlando, so the drive in is usually an easy one. That is, of course, if you avoid the morning and afternoon rush hours. You're not only close to downtown Orlando when you arrive at the main Orlando Airport , but you're also just 25 miles away from Walt Disney World, which lies to the west. As such, getting into town or to your Disney hotel by car shouldn't take you more than 30 to 40 minutes. If you don't know how to get to your ultimate destination, most of the rental car companies will provide you with a helpful Orlando map. Keep in mind that some of the drop off points for the airport rental car agencies can be located a few miles away from the airport. If you're in a hurry to catch a flight, that could be of considerable consequence, as you'll usually have to take a shuttle from the drop off point to the airport.

If you don't want to rent a car at the Orlando airport, you can always hop on board a van on the airport's ground level. These vans, which are air-conditioned, are run by different companies and they stop at not only the Disney hotels, but a bunch of other Orlando hotels and destinations as well. While hopping on a public van to get to your hotel is fine by most, those looking for a more personal experience can book transportation ahead of time through an agency that will send someone to greet them at the baggage claim area. After helping you with your luggage, the respective company's agent will take you straight to your hotel. In addition to booking your ground transportation through such an agency, you can also arrange for a town car to pick you up. These hired cars, which are also relatively expensive, can usually fit anywhere from 7 to 10 people.

Orlando Tours

Booking Orlando tours is one of the best ways to kick off your Orlando vacation. Tours of Orlando can offer you a chance to get a broad introduction to the city and also to get lots of details and insider information you wouldn't necessarily be able to pick up just by exploring on your own. Tours of Orlando also provide easy access to popular Orlando attractions.

One of the most popular types of Orlando tours are city tours, which introduce visitors to a wide range of the city's offerings, and give a good sense of what different parts of the city are like. City tours often visit popular Orlando attractions. You might pass through the center of downtown Orlando and then take a narrated boat tour at Winter Park, seeing Lake Eola, Rollins College, and the City of Celebration. City tours of Orlando might even squeeze in a bit of luxury shopping on Park Avenue.

Particularly for those who don't want to do a lot of walking or who are staying in Orlando for only a short time, an Orlando bus tour is a smart choice. An Orlando bus tour can quickly cover many sights both in the downtown area, or go to popular destinations farther away.

Sightseeing tours of Orlando are by no means the only kind of Orlando tours available. There are a variety of kinds of Orlando tours that you can book, from sightseeing tours to beach tours to shopping tours. One popular tour offered is of the Kennedy Space Center. You can get transportation to the Center, admission to the visitor complex and into the engaging U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, an opportunity to experience the G-Force trainer, and a two-hour bus-tour.

If you are a shop-till-you-drop kind of person, consider taking shopping tours of Orlando. You'll get round-trip transportation to places like The Mall at Millenia, Bealls Outlet, World of Denim, and the Reebok's Factory Outlet, as well as a lunch voucher.

If you're ready for fun in the sun, consider a beach tour to the Orlando beaches. The tour provides roundtrip transportation from pick-up spots at Orlando hotels to popular beaches like Clearwater Beach. You'll also have a buffet lunch, and options to go on a dolphin-spotting cruise or take a sealife boat tour guided by a marine biologist, with an island stop so that you can spend some time collecting shells.

If you want to learn more about the historical attractions in Orlando, consider taking historical walking tours of Orlando. You can hire a guide, or even take a self-guided tour using the historical walking tour information provided by the City of Orlando.

From tours of the Kennedy Space Center to Orlando shopping tours to an Orlando bus tour of the downtown area, there are Orlando tours to suit every personality and agenda. Often, Orlando tour packages will include admission to attractions or food vouchers, so do a little research ahead of time and you will be sure to find something perfect for your interests.

Orlando Spas

There are a number of excellent Orlando spas that can make your Orlando vacation a supremely relaxing trip. After a busy day at the theme parks, a little pampering at one of the Orlando day spas could be just the thing to help you unwind. Whether you need a facial, massage, body wrap, or other treatment, with a little research and planning you are sure to be able to book a visit to the ideal spa in Orlando for your needs.

One of the popular Orlando spas is The Spa, LLC. This serene spot offers everything from hot stone massages and prenatal massages to facials, body scrubs, acupuncture, and waxing services. If you want more than a single treatment and are in search of spa packages in Orlando, this is still a good pick. Packages typically offer some combination of massages, facials, manicures, and pedicures. To make the experience even more luxurious, refreshments are provided free of charge.

There are a number of other Orlando day spas to consider. Papillon the Spa at Westgate Lakes Resort is one of the many spas at the hotel resorts in Orlando. It offers a variety of salon and spa services, and specializes in unique body wraps and other body treatments that use the salon's signature method of massage wrapping. Treatments often feature botanicals such as chamomile, rose petals, seaweed, organic honey, green tea, sage, water lily, and aloe vera.

Another spa in Orlando to research is the Buena Vista Palace Day Spa at the Walt Disney World Resort. If you're already going to Walt Disney World or other nearby Orlando theme parks, this is an easy spa to visit. At this luxury spa in Orlando you will have your choice of over 60 spa services, from facials and massages, to body wraps, manicures, and hair services. You can also soak in the outdoor whirlpool or go for a swim in the lap pool.

Just minutes away from the Walt Disney World Resort, the Canyon Ranch Spa Club at the Gaylord Palms Resort is another one of the popular Orlando day spas. It offers a wide variety of treatments, including massages, bodywork, facials, aromatherapy, mud treatments, masks, and body scrubs. One popular service provides 100 minutes of conditioning massage and bodywork.

Many other Orlando spas are also well worth a visit. The spa at the Orlando World Center Marriott offers a variety of unique services, from aromatherapy treatments utilizing chamomile to a warm Sedona clay mud wrap, to an invigorating sea salt body treatment. Other services offered include deep cleansing facials, reflexology treatments, and couple's massages.

No matter where you are staying in Orlando, or what kind of spa service you are looking for, it will be easy to find a luxurious Orlando day spa to relax and unwind at. Do plan to book appointments ahead of time when possible, and allow plenty of time to relax after your treatments, as many Orlando spas have saunas, whirlpools, swimming pools, and fitness centers that can be used free of charge by any spa client.

Orlando Holidays

With so many things to do in Orlando, your holiday in Orlando is sure to be a great trip filled with wonderful memories. From entertaining amusement parks and theme parks to golf courses, shopping malls, museums, and spas, there are attractions geared toward all kinds of travelers. Whether you're traveling with friends or family on your holiday in Orlando, there will be plenty to keep everyone busy.

An important part of every vacation is accommodation. There are a variety of options for accommodation, from budget hotels and luxury hotels to vacation rentals in private homes, condominiums, apartments, and villas. Great Orlando holiday deals are often found by booking in advance, but even if you book at the last minute there may be Orlando holiday deals available.

Many travelers will be flying into town for their Orlando holidays. Another great way to get Orlando holiday deals is to book your flight and hotel together as part of an Orlando vacation package. Vacation packages also often include admission to various Orlando attractions.

Orlando attractions are extremely varied. Those on an Orlando family holiday will, of course, want to consider the many Orlando parks that will provide hours of excitement for children. Among the popular parks are Walt Disney World, SeaWorld Orlando, and Universal Studios. Others include Gatorland, Wet 'n Wild Orlando, and Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park. For those who want to get behind the wheel and try their hands at some go karts at an amusement park, the Fun Spot Action Park or G Force Drag Racing might just the thing.

For adults on holiday in Orlando, there are a variety of things to do. For a relaxing day, go golfing at one of the many golf courses or take a lesson at the golf academies. Or, pamper yourself at one of Orlando's luxurious spas, where you can get all sorts of massages, facials, body treatments, and hair and nail services. Shoppers will have plenty to keep themselves busy on Orlando holidays as well. Not only are there nine regional malls, including The Mall at Millenia, but luxury shopping is found on Park Avenue in the Winter Park neighborhood, and a number of bargains can be found at flea markets.

Touring the sites is a popular part of many Orlando holidays. To get the most out of your sightseeing, consider booking an Orlando tour, which might take you downtown to attractions like Lake Eola, or to interesting locations further away such as the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and Astronaut Hall of Fame. If you are on the hunt for Orlando holiday deals, a tour can be a great option. Not only will tours include several destinations, but they will include the price of admission to attractions you want to see.

After the sun goes down, those on an Orlando family holiday may want to catch the Disney fireworks, while the partiers will undoubtedly want to experience the Orlando nightlife.

No matter what your travel itinerary may be, with so many different kinds of entertainment available, your Orlando holiday is sure to be a memorable one.

Orlando Golf Courses

Those planning to go on golf vacations in Orlando have certainly chosen to visit the right spot. There are countless opportunities to play golf in Orlando and also in the surrounding region. Not only are there numerous Orlando golf courses and golf resorts, but there are also a number of acclaimed golf schools. So whether you are ready to putt with the pros or are just getting started, you are sure to find several great places to golf in Orlando.

Golfing is certainly one the popular things to do in Orlando, and there are quite a few Orlando golf resorts to choose between. If you want to combine lots of golfing with luxury accommodation in Orlando, staying at an Orlando golf resort is a great idea. In addition to golf courses, you will find beautiful grounds, pampering spas, and other luxurious amenities.

One popular Orlando golf resort is the Grande Lakes at the Ritz-Carlton. Here you will find an 18-hole championship course designed by British open winner Greg Norman. It features demanding greens, water hazards, and over one hundred strategically located bunkers, not to mention a beautiful setting among the Florida Everglades headwaters.

Another popular Orlando golf resort is the Grand Cypress Resort. There are several Orlando golf courses at this resort. In addition to three 9-hole courses, there is also an 18-hole course here. The 9-hole courses can also be played in a few 18-hole combinations. The Grand Cypress Resort also has a renowned golf school.

Another golf resort is the Hawk's Landing Golf Club, a 220-acre golf club at the Orlando World Center Marriott Resort. The lush 18-hole was designed by Robert Cupp, III, a renowned golf architect. The scenery of palms, southern magnolias, sand pines, azaleas, and jasmine provides a beautiful backdrop for a challenging 71-par course. The Bill Madonna Golf Academy is also found onsite.

Arnold Palmer's Bay Hill Club and Lodge is yet another golf resort in Orlando. Featuring a popular course on the PGA tour, this golf resort is also where golf legend Arnold Palmer lives and works. The Champion, Challenger, and Charger courses together provide 27 holes on which both pros and amateurs can test their skills. The Arnold Palmer Golf Academy offers lessons for golfers of all ages.

If you wish to venture beyond resorts for your Orlando golf courses, there are several semi-private Orlando golf courses where you can schedule a tee time, including Lake Orlando Golf Club, MetroWest Country Club, and North Shore Golf Club, and Championsgate.

Public Orlando golf courses are another way you can golf in Orlando. Public courses include the Dubsdread Golf Course, Eagle Creek Golf Club, Stoneybrook East Golf Course, Shingle Creek Golf Club, Grande Pines Golf Club, and Hunter's Creek Golf Course.

No matter what kind of golf course or atmosphere you are looking for, you are sure to find it in Orlando. With its numerous golf resorts, semi-private, and public courses, Orlando is a great pick for golf holidays.

Orlando Vacation Rentals

Booking Orlando vacation rentals is a great alternative to staying at Orlando hotels. After a busy day of the exploring Orlando or braving the crowds at Walt Disney World or other Orlando theme parks, coming home to a private vacation rental in Orlando is sure to be a relaxing and soothing end to the day. Orlando vacation rentals are found in many different areas and at varying price levels, so there will be something to suit every traveler's itinerary and budget. Particularly if you would like a more home-like environment than what is generally found at hotels, an Orlando vacation home rental is an excellent choice for your Orlando accommodation.

When it comes to choosing a vacation rental in Orlando, there will be many different aspects to consider. One of the first decisions to make is regarding the location of the property. If you plan to spend time at popular Orlando attractions such as Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and Sea World, you might want to consider booking a Orlando vacation home rental close to the parks so that you can maximize your time there, and have a quick journey home when you are tired at the end of the day. Alternatively, if you would like to spend your Orlando vacation shopping downtown or if you prefer to be close to the Orlando beaches, you can easily find homes, condominiums, and resort rentals there as well.

The size of your group will likely play a role in the kind of vacation rental in Orlando that you will want to book. Small parties have many options, from apartments and condominiums to full-size houses and beautiful villas. For larger travel groups, the best option will likely be a house or villa with many bedrooms. There is an Orlando vacation home rental for all different sizes of groups—some even have up to seven bedrooms—so no matter how many people you are traveling with on your Orlando holiday, you are likely to find a good vacation rental in Orlando for your party.

In addition to the size and location of the rental property, also be sure to consider what kinds of amenities you would like to have included with your rental. Of course, condominiums, apartments, and homes will all provide kitchen facilities, which is a major difference from most hotel rooms. Additionally, some properties will have private swimming pools and whirlpools, which can be great for relaxing at the end of a busy day of exploring. Other important features to consider with Orlando vacation rentals include air-conditioning, fitness centers, cable TV, and Internet.

The general atmosphere of your vacation rental in Orlando will also be important, so look at plenty of pictures of the property before settling on which property you will rent. For those who are looking for cheap vacations to Orlando, research well in advance to secure the best deals on Orlando vacation rentals. Even if you have a large budget, planning in advance is always a wise choice, as you will then have the largest selection of properties.

Christmas at Disney World

Christmas at Disney World is a truly merry affair. This world-renowned resort goes all out in terms of decorating during the holiday season, and the tickets for Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party go fast. Other events, such as the Candlelight Procession at Epcot, also sell out fast, and arranging everything in advance is recommended if you want to attend the magical Walt Disney World Christmas Day Parade. If you miss out on the chance to see the parade in person, worry not, as it is aired on TV on Christmas Day. You can also try to catch one of the more general holiday parades, which are held on select dates in December.

Christmas at Disney World is more than just a one-day affair. The resort and its various theme parks around Orlando start celebrating the holiday season in early November, and the fun doesn't stop until early January with the ushering in of the New Year. As for the famed Walt Disney World Christmas Day Parade, it is taped in late January or early December, depending on the year, and it then airs on Christmas Day. Tickets are made available for people who want to attend the live taping, though they are hard to get. Thankfully, the Walt Disney World Christmas Day Parade airs on Christmas Day, so you don't have to miss Mickey, Santa, and all the stars who provide live entertainment throughout the celebration.

The Christmas Day Parade isn't the only parade that you can hope to enjoy while celebrating Christmas at Disney World. At the Magic Kingdom theme park, Mickey Mouse and a bunch of other famous Disney characters parade down Main Street on select nights between early November and mid-December. The Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade and the variety of other holiday season events that are associated with it get started at 7 p.m. and end at midnight. Snow falls on Main Street, adding to the festive holiday atmosphere, and live stage shows featuring Disney characters help to keep the fun going. Complimentary cookies and hot cocoa are on offer, and the chance to meet and greet an array of Disney Characters is just one more perk. There's also Cinderella's Castle, which is illuminated in grand fashion by Christmas Lights. All of this is part of the larger Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, which is capped off with a spectacular fireworks show.

During the holiday season, Walt Disney World visitors can enjoy any number of fun events and activities. The nightly Candlelight Processional at Epcot is just one more event that gets a lot of attention, namely for the moving way in which it tells the story of Christmas and how it is celebrated around the world. As for fun activities, checking out the Osborne Family Spectacle of Lights is a very popular pursuit. This holiday display at Disney's Hollywood Studios features millions of bulbs and can be enjoyed from November to early January. Over at the Animal Kingdom theme park, checking out the unique Christmas trees, visiting with Goofy, and watching Mickey's Jingle Jungle Parade are fun ways to spend time. Goofy dons a Santa costume, thus allowing visitors to Santa Goofy's Wild Wonderland to enjoy some interesting photo opportunities.

Celebrating Christmas at Disney World is a blast, regardless of which theme park you find yourself at. Of course, visiting all of the resort's different theme parks is recommended, as they all offer their own allure. You might also keep some of the resort hotels in mind when looking for things to do. At Disney's Beach Club Resort, for example, holiday season visitors can check out the chocolate and gingerbread carousel in the lobby. It's life-size. There's also the lovely-smelling gingerbread house in the lobby of Disney's Grand Floridian Resort. Visitors to this savory house can walk inside, and should the temptation to eat some gingerbread treats set in, which it most likely will, various goodies are for sale.

Christmas is a very busy time at Walt Disney World. In fact, it just might be the busiest time of year. As such, arranging everything well in advance is recommended. Various ticket packages are available if you want to celebrate the various events that relate to Christmas at Disney World. It is also possible to book a more complete Orlando Christmas vacation package that includes things like your flight, your stay at one of the Orlando area hotels, and special event tickets for Disney World and other area destinations.

Orlando Vacation Packages

When planning your next Orlando vacation, it is best to think ahead and research Orlando vacation packages. Vacation packages can help you save money on several aspects of your Orlando trip. They can combine the costs for airfare and accommodation, or combine accommodation and entertainment, or bundle together all three parts of your vacation. If you have one particular attraction you want to visit, then you can often find vacation packages that will include the costs of those tickets. Especially if you are a budget traveler planning a cheap Orlando vacation, or if you are going on an Orlando family vacation, booking vacation packages to Orlando is a great idea.

Many vacation packages to Orlando will bundle the cost of your airfare and accommodations. Orlando's accommodations are varied, with budget hotels, luxury spa and golf resorts, and hotels affiliated with theme parks. After determining when you want to travel to Orlando, you can find out which hotels or resorts are offering packages at that time and find the one that suits you best. In this case, thorough research on different hotels and simply planning ahead will help you find the best Orlando vacation deals.

Because the Orlando theme parks are such a popular Orlando attraction for tourists to visit, there are a variety of Orlando Disney packages available through hotels. In these Orlando vacation packages, you can purchase your hotel stay and your tickets to theme parks all at once. Most often, the theme parks that you may find in these Orlando Disney packages are Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and Sea World Orlando, along with the new Sea World Aquatica Water Park, but tickets for a variety of other attractions are also sometimes available. If the hotel you want to stay at doesn't list any Orlando Disney packages, it is worth your time to call and ask if there are any.

One of the popular Orlando vacation packages centered around tickets is the Orlando FlexTicket, which provides unlimited admission for fourteen consecutive days to Sea World, Universal Studios, Aquatica, Islands of Adventure, and Wet 'n Wild for one person. If you want to visit several Disney attractions, you might choose to get Disney Park Hopper tickets, which allow you to visit several parks in one day.

Even if you don't plan to visit any theme parks on your Orlando holiday, you may still wish to consider Orlando vacation packages. If your list of things to do in Orlando includes spending time on a golf course or getting a relaxing massage or facial at one of the luxurious Orlando spas, look for vacation packages to Orlando spa resorts or golf resorts.

In short, no matter what the itinerary of your Orlando vacation looks like, it is certainly a good idea to look into Orlando vacation packages. Orlando is a major tourist destination and consequently there are wide variety of packages and deals available to those who plan ahead and take the time to find them.

Universal Studios Tickets

With so many things to do in Orlando for all ages and personalities, it's no wonder Orlando is a popular vacation destination. Theme parks abound in Orlando, but one of the most popular Orlando theme parks that vacationers like to visit is Universal Studios. Since the cost of theme parks can quickly force the price of your Orlando vacation upward, take some time to research the options for Universal Studios tickets and for other parks you may wish to visit.

As you begin piecing together your Orlando vacation itinerary, deciding which Orlando theme park tickets to buy is an important step. To start, get familiar with the basics. You can buy Universal Studios tickets in person at the park, but you will not find discount tickets to Universal Studios Florida there. You can also get them as part of a vacation package through your hotel. Prices vary depending on the age of the visitor—the two categories are ages 3 to 9, and ages 10 and older.

You have many different choices for your Universal Studios tickets. You can purchase a ticket to either Universal Studios Florida or Universal's Islands of Adventure theme park for one day only. You can also purchase a one- or two-day ticket to both Universal Studios Florida and Universal's Islands of Adventure theme park. Or look into a weeklong pass to both parks, which may also include all-club access to Universal CityWalk's entertainment venues. A weeklong pass generally needs to be purchased at least two days in advance.

For those who plan to return within the year, a great option for discount tickets to Universal Studios Florida is purchasing an annual pass. Then you'll have Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure tickets for a full year.

You can also find discount tickets to Universal Studios Florida by purchasing an Orlando vacation package. Many of the Orlando hotels offer discounted tickets when purchased at the same time as your hotel stay. If there aren't vacation packages listed for a particular hotel you want to stay at, don't be afraid to call the hotel directly and find out if tickets are available.

Another popular way to find Universal Studio Tickets and Islands of Adventure tickets is through an Orlando vacation package called the Orlando FlexTicket. This ticket is designed for the travelers that want to visit several different kinds of theme parks. It provides unlimited admission to Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, Sea World, Aquatica, and Wet 'n Wild for one person, for fourteen consecutive days.

No matter how much time you wish to stay at the theme parks, it can pay to research ahead of time. You won't find deals by showing up to buy your Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure tickets at the park entrance, so plan ahead and buy them in advance. Then you'll also be sure you're getting the right package for the combination of parks you want to visit.

Orlando Theme Park Tickets

Orlando theme parks are some of the most popular Orlando attractions, drawing millions of visitors every year. There are a variety of options for purchasing Orlando theme park tickets. Whether you're looking to purchase tickets to Disney World, tickets to Universal Studios, or tickets to many different parks, you will find that there are ticket packages for nearly every combination.

In general, Orlando theme park tickets are different for adults and children. The standard adult price applies to anyone aged 10 and older, while children aged 3 to 9 get a lower price. Those small children aged 2 and younger do not need tickets.

For tickets to Disney World, the basic option is the Magic Your Way Tickets. Admission to four Disney parks can be purchased with this kind of ticket: Hollywood Studios, the Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot Center, and Disney's Animal Kingdom Park. The basic ticket grants you admission to one park per day, but you decide how many days the ticket will last. The longer your ticket's valid period, the cheaper the ticket's price per day will be.

You can add options to the Magic Your Way Tickets for an additional fee. The Park Hopper option allows you to go to several parks each day. The Water Park and More option gives admission into Disney's Wide World of Sports complex, Disney Quest, or lets you play at Disney's 9-hole Oak Trail Golf Course. If you don't want to use all the days on your ticket consecutively, the No Expiration offer lets you use the days you do not use in the future. If you want to make several trips to a particular theme park in a single year, consider getting an annual pass.

The basic ticket option for Sea World is a one-day pass. It is valid only for one visit to Sea World within one year of the purchase. The second-day-free option enables you to visit a second time within one week of the first visit for no additional cost. Other packages offer some combination of Sea World, Aquatica, Busch Gardens, and Discovery Cove.

You have many choices for tickets to Universal Studios. You can purchase tickets to Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure theme park for one day only, or buy a one or two-day ticket to both parks. You also could get a weeklong ticket to both parks, which generally needs to be purchased two days in advance.

Another good way to get Orlando theme park tickets is with Orlando Flex Tickets. Orlando Flex Tickets provide unlimited admission to Sea World, Aquatica, Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios, and Wet 'n Wild for fourteen consecutive days for one person. Orlando Flex Tickets Plus include fourteen consecutive days to Sea World, Aquatica, Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios, Wet 'n Wild, and Busch Gardens.

No matter which parks you wish to see, decide ahead of time so that you'll be able to get the best Orlando vacation deals on your tickets to Disney World and other Orlando theme parks.

Sea World Tickets

With its variety of theme parks, golf courses, spas, and shopping, Orlando is a very popular destination for travelers of all ages. The many theme parks in Orlando are undoubtedly one of the city's biggest draws, and Sea World is surely one of most popular. Sea World is an especially popular Orlando attraction for families with children, but is entertaining for all ages. There are a variety of types of Sea World tickets available, so take some time to research your options ahead of time to be sure to get the best type of Sea World tickets for your particular group.

First, be aware that tickets to Orlando Sea World will vary in price depending on the age of the visitor. Children ages 3 to 9 pay one price, and visitors ages 10 and older will pay another price. You can get tickets to Orlando Sea World only, or you can purchase tickets to Orlando Sea World in conjunction with tickets for other affiliated parks such as Busch Gardens, Aquatica, and Discovery Cove. This is a great way to get discount Sea World tickets.

The basic option for Sea World tickets is a one-day pass for only Sea World, with the ticket being valid for one year from the date of purchase. The second-day-free feature allows you to visit the park a second time for no additional cost. The second visit does have to take place within the seven days following the first visit.

Another option for discount Sea World tickets is to get a package. One package offers admission to both Sea World and Sea World Busch Gardens for a full fourteen days. Included in this package is roundtrip transportation to Busch Gardens in Tampa on the Shuttle Express. Planning ahead may help you get discount Sea World tickets in this case. Booking seven days in advance can sometimes allow adults to purchase tickets at the child price.

A similar package is offered for Sea World and the Aquatica water park. The package provides admittance into both parks for fourteen days and adults that book seven days in advance can purchase at the child's price. Other packages include some combination of Orlando Sea World, Busch Gardens, Aquatica, and Discovery Cove.

Another good way to get tickets to Orlando Sea World if you plan to visit many other theme parks in Orlando is to book the Orlando FlexTicket. This Orlando vacation package is a ticket that provides unlimited admission for fourteen consecutive days to Sea World, Aquatica, Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios, and Wet 'n Wild for one person. The FlexTicket Plus includes fourteen consecutive days admittance to Sea World, Aquatica, Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios, Wet 'n Wild, and Busch Gardens.

No matter how what package you decide on, booking ahead of time is a good practice for getting the lowest prices on theme park tickets.

Orlando Show Tickets

Seeing a show is one of the great things to do in Orlando. Shows at theme parks will be included with your admission to the park so you won't have to buy Orlando show tickets for those attractions. However, there are also dinner shows that you will have to book separately. With a full dinner and hours of entertainment, these dinner shows are always enjoyable, and depending on what kind of show you want to see, you will find different options for discount show tickets in Orlando.

One of the popular dinner shows is the Medieval Times Orlando, which offers medieval festival with jousting, falconry, and hand-to-hand combat, along with a hearty feast. Medieval Times Orlando Dinner Show tickets include dinner and the entertainment. Discount show tickets in Orlando are sometimes available for Medieval Times to tours and groups.

Another great family-friendly show is the Pirates Dinner Adventure. There is a discounted "show only" offer on Sundays, which excludes food and beverages. Be aware that quoted prices for these Orlando dinner show tickets may not include gratuity.

Orlando dinner show tickets are available in advance for the Sleuths Mystery Dinner Show, an entertaining mystery and comedy show. Since there are thirteen different programs, be sure to check the schedule to book your favorite. If you want to attend this show, ask about current promotions and discounts when you call to make the reservations. Sometimes you can find better deals on discount show tickets in Orlando for weekday performances compared to those on the weekend.

Another entertaining pick for shows is the Makahiki Luau Dinner Show at the Sea Fire Inn at Sea World. This show provides a delightful evening of hula dancing, drum beating, fire throwing, and delicious South Pacific cuisine. The luau is certainly a popular event and can sell out, so be sure to purchase these Orlando show tickets to in advance.

Many theme parks feature shows as well. Sea World Orlando offers a variety of shows, that feature everything from choreographed killer whale movements to acrobatic dolphins, fountains, fireworks, and stunt actors. Tickets are also available for many live shows at Epcot. One Epcot show presents a live Taiko drumming performance, another features amazing Chinese acrobats, and others focus on everything from a capella music to instrumental music from all over the world.

No matter which Orlando show tickets you have set your sights on, do plenty of research and you could very likely turn up with a discount. Also, plan on booking ahead to secure your favorite show. With tickets taken care of in advance, you can truly relax and enjoy your vacation to the fullest.

Hollywood Studios Tickets

With a show business theme inspired by the glamour of Hollywood in the 1930s and 1940s, Hollywood Studios is a very popular Orlando theme park, drawing millions of visitors every year. If you too are adding Hollywood Studios to your list of things to do in Orlando while on vacation, be sure to research the variety of options for purchasing Hollywood Studios tickets. Often, if you are planning on visiting other Orlando theme parks, and particularly if other Disney parks are on your to-see list, you will be able to find many different ticket packages that will help you lower the cost of your Orlando holiday.

Some basic things to know about Hollywood Studios tickets before purchasing them include knowing that prices will be different for children and adults. The standard adult price applies to anyone aged 10 and older, while children aged 3 to 9 can have children's tickets at a lower price. Those small children aged 2 and younger do not need tickets. Additionally, you will find a wide array of ticket packages. If you simply want Disney Hollywood Studios tickets, those are available, but you can also buy discount tickets to Hollywood Studios Orlando as part of a package that includes admission to more than one park.

The basic Hollywood Studios tickets can be bought with the Magic Your Way Tickets. There are four different Disney parks included in the Magic Your Way Tickets: Disney's Hollywood Studios, the Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, and Disney's Animal Kingdom Park. These basic Magic Your Way Tickets grant you admission to one park per day, but you have the option of deciding how many days your ticket will last. The more days your ticket is valid for, the cheaper the average price per day of the ticket will be. Therefore, by purchasing for several parks at once that you plan to visit, you can get discount tickets to Hollywood Studios Orlando.

You can also add additional options to the Magic Your Way Tickets for a higher price. One of the popular options is the Park Hopper add-on, which provides admission to additional parks each day. In addition to admission to the four major parks (Disney's Hollywood Studios, Epcot, Magic Kingdom Park, and Disney's Animal Kingdom Park) you will also get into Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, Sea World, Aquatica, and Wet 'n' Wild for up to fourteen consecutive days. Another option for Disney Hollywood Studios tickets is the Magic Your Way Tickets in combination with the Water Park and More option. This option will give you tickets into two water parks, Disney's Wide World of Sports complex, Disney Quest, or lets you play at Disney's 9-hole Oak Trail Golf Course.

For the real Disney fans who want to make several trips to Orlando in one year, think about getting an annual pass, which would provide Disney Hollywood Studios tickets for a whole year. Or, if you want the fourteen-day discount but don't want to use up all the days immediately, consider purchasing the No Expiration offer. This offer allows you to use the days of your ticket you did not use at a later date.

Those planning a cheap Orlando holiday can also find discount tickets to Hollywood Studios Orlando through Orlando vacation packages offered by hotels. These vacation packages will combine your accommodations and admission into theme parks, helping you save money. Especially if you only want Disney Hollywood Studios tickets for a day or two, this is a good pick. To be sure to get the best deals, research ahead of time and book your Hollywood Studios tickets in advance.

Epcot Tickets

With its engaging look at technological innovation and international cultures, it's no surprise that Epcot is one of the most wildly popular attractions in Orlando, drawing millions of visitors each year. If you plan to join the visitors at Epcot while on your Orlando vacation, be sure research your different options for purchasing Epcot Center tickets. Especially if you are planning to visit other Disney parks or other Orlando theme parks, you will find a variety of ticket packages and vacation packages that may result in discount Epcot tickets for you and your family.

There are some basic things to know about Epcot tickets before you start your research. One is that prices will vary by the age of the visitor. The standard price will apply to those aged 10 and older, while a children's price is available for children ages 3 to 9. Children under three are free. Also, there are diverse options for ticket packages—you can simply purchase Epcot Center tickets or buy a package that includes admission to several parks.

The basic Epcot Center tickets can be bought through the Magic Your Way Tickets. Four parks are included in the Magic Your Way Tickets: the Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios, and Disney's Animal Kingdom Park. The Magic Your Way Tickets provide admission to one park per day, and you decide how many days you want your ticket to last for. The longer the duration of your ticket, the cheaper the average price per day will be. Therefore, you can get discount Epcot tickets by purchasing tickets for several parks at once.

In addition to the basic Magic Your Way Tickets, you can add on several kinds of options for an additional cost. The Park Hopper is one of the popular options. The Park Hopper option grants you access to more than one park each day. In addition to admission to the four major parks (Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios, and Disney's Animal Kingdom Park) it also grants admission for up to fourteen consecutive days to Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, Sea World, Aquatica, and Wet 'n' Wild.

Another option you can add is the Water Park and More option, which gives admission into two water parks, Disney Quest, Disney's Wide World of Sports complex, or lets you play a round of golf at Disney's 9-hole Oak Trail Golf Course. If you aren't excited about spending fourteen days in a row at the parks but want the discount, consider coming back in the future and purchasing the No Expiration offer. This offer allows you to use the days you didn't use of your ticket in the future. For the real Epcot fans who want to make several trips to Orlando and Epcot in one year, consider getting an annual pass, which provides tickets to Epcot Center Orlando for a whole year.

If you want to plan a cheap Orlando vacation, one good method to find discount Epcot tickets in Orlando is by booking an Orlando vacation package. Orlando vacation packages will often combine the cost of accommodations with the price of a day or two of admission into a theme park of your choice, lowering the cost of both. Especially if you plan to visit a single park for just a day or two, this is a great choice for Epcot tickets. As usual, a reliable way to get the tickets and packages you want is to research ahead of time and book your Epcot tickets in advance.

Disney Ticket

Orlando is a major destination, and there are many things to do here. One of the most popular attractions for those on an Orlando vacation is undoubtedly Walt Disney World.

Before you get started buying your Disney World tickets, there are a few basic things to know. You can buy them both in person at the park or ahead of time. Standard ticket prices are for those ages 10 and older, and discount Disney tickets are available for children ages 3 to 9. You also have diverse choices for what your ticket will include—some are for a single park, and some are for several parks.

Basic Disney World tickets can be bought by choosing the Magic Your Way Tickets. Essentially, you buy a ticket for however many days you want access to the major theme parks, and then you can access one park per day. The longer the duration of your ticket, the cheaper the average price per day will be. Therefore, you are able to get discount Disney tickets by purchasing them for more consecutive days. The four parks that are included in the Magic Your Way Tickets are the Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios, and Disney's Animal Kingdom Park.

Disney's FASTPASS system is included in your Disney tickets. This helps you save time waiting in line for popular rides. Insert your Disney tickets into the FASTPASS station at the attraction you wish you ride, and you receive a FASTPASS Return Time Ticket that tells you when to return. During the return time period, you can hop into the quick FASTPASS return lane and you'll hardly have to wait at all.

In addition, you can add several options to the Magic Your Way Tickets, for an additional cost. One such option is the Park Hopper option. The Park Hopper option allows you to visit more than one park each day, and gives admission for up to fourteen consecutive days to Universal Studios, Sea World, Aquatica, Wet 'n Wild, and Islands of Adventure. There is also a Water Park and More option which includes Disney Quest tickets, access to two water parks, admission to Disney's Wide World of Sports complex, or a round at Disney's 9-hole Oak Trail Golf Course. If you don't want to go for fourteen days in a row but are considering coming back in the future, you can purchase the No Expiration offer, which allows you to use up the days you didn't use in the future. For those who plan to visit several times in one year, you can also get an annual pass.

For those trying to plan a cheap Orlando vacation, a great way to find discount Disney tickets in Orlando is by booking a vacation package. Orlando vacation packages often pair your hotel costs with a day or two of admission into a park of your choice. This is a great option if you only want to visit one park for a day or two, and therefore wouldn't benefit from the lower average prices of a fourteen-day day ticket. The best way to score these great vacation packages including Disney World tickets is to plan ahead and research in advance.

Wonderworks Orlando

Just south of Universal Studios and Sea World is where you will find the Wonderworks Orlando Amusement Park . In a land full of theme parks, Wonderworks does well to offer a unique experience that the whole family can enjoy. The attractions at Wonderworks are diverse, and they include interactive exhibits that you can enjoy while making the rounds. A great place for birthday parties, family trips, youth groups, and even corporate outings, Wonderworks can help your group enjoy a fun-filled day in sunny central Florida .

It's hard to miss the Wonderworks Amusement Park when driving along International Boulevard, as the park boasts an upside-down main building. According to Wonderworks legend, the main building was once a laboratory that was swept away from its original spot in the Bermuda Triangle by a powerful tornado. Where it rests today is where the fictional tornado left it. The building is still very much a place where scientists can run all kinds of experiments, and guests are welcome as well to try their hands at things like landing a Space Shuttle. From your simulated Space Shuttle cockpit, you'll man the controls and take charge of making sure that you touch down safely on the airstrip. For those visitors who always wanted to be pilots, the Fighter Jets exhibit is sure to please. You'll again find yourself in a simulated cockpit, only this time you'll be flying fighter jets.

Should you be coming to Orlando from California , or from anywhere else in the world that experiences earthquakes from time to time, you might not rush to experience the Earthquake Simulator ride at the Wonderworks Amusement Park . For those who have never been in an earthquake, however, it's a chance to see how powerful and strange they can actually be. The Earthquake Simulator aims to recreate the San Francisco earthquake of 1989, and you'll rock and sway to a quake that measures 5.3 on the Richter Scale. Other fun attractions at Wonderworks include the Global VR, where you can try your hand at virtual combat, and the Wonder Coaster, where you can design your own simulated roller coaster and then ride it! For the little ones in your group, the Bubble Lab is sure to be a hit. At this "laboratory," kids can make bubbles so big they can fit inside them.

In addition to the aforementioned attractions at Wonderworks, visitors can also hit the onsite arcade to play some video games or enjoy a game of Lazer Tag. When day starts to give way to night, Wonderworks Amusement Park visitors can consider sticking around to enjoy The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show. Appropriate for all ages, this dinner show includes comedy, magic, and audience participation, so you just might become part of the proceedings if you're not careful. Orlando dinner shows don't get much funnier than this one, so if you're looking for a good laugh to cap off a fun-filled day, this is worth a look. If you can't hang around to catch the dinner show, then you might find yourself looking to grab something to eat at Wonderworks Orlando during the day. The café here serves up quick favorites like pizza, hot dogs, chicken nuggets, french fries, ice cream, and you can get sodas and other refreshments as well. Should you get the shopping itch, you can always hit the Wonderworks gift shop, which sells souvenirs and a satisfying array of candy.

Tickets for a day at the Wonderworks Amusement Park are reasonably-priced, even if you buy an Ultimate Combo ticket. The Ultimate Combo ticket includes all of the exhibits at Wonderworks, a Lazer Tag game, and a seat at the dinner show. In addition to buying combo tickets at Wonderworks Orlando, you can also purchase single tickets for each separate attraction, including the dinner show.

Because Wonderworks is so close to Sea World, you might look to stay at one of the Sea World hotels if you are thinking of including it on your Orlando itinerary. You can also look to stay nearby at one of the Universal Studios resorts. Disney World is not too far off either, so you might even take a minute to check out the Disney resorts and hotels as well.

Harry Potter Theme Park

The Harry Potter Universal Orlando park is a dream come true for Pottermaniacs everywhere. When the J.K. Rowling first book came out in 1997, it broke records in the publishing world as did every book in the series. The blockbuster films soon followed suit. The Harry Potter Amusement Park—called the Wizarding World of Harry Potter—is located in Orlando, Florida, where a couple dozen theme parks such as Disney World and Islands of Adventure draw millions of tourists each year. The Harry Potter Park in Orlando is sure to fit right into this amusement park backdrop, if not break all the records here as well.

The Harry Potter Amusement Park (partnered with Universal Studios Orlando) has worked closely with the celebrated author to ensure that everything is authentic as possible. Most of the rides were named by Rowling herself, and she had approval rights over innumerable details.

The Florida Harry Potter Theme Park will have thrilling Disneyland-type rides and attractions, as well as restaurants, snack stands, pubs, and numerous shopping venues. Like Dickens World in Kent, England, all the park attractions are faithful to the books and will bring the films alive. In fact, one enters the world of Hogwarts at Harry Potter Park in Orlando the same way J.K. Rowling had Harry and his schoolmates enter in the books and films—at the Hogsmeade Station in a waft of billowing steam from the Hogwarts Express train. Zonko's is the first shop to greet visitors, and is where you can outfit yourself with extendable ears or arm yourself with Sneakoscopes. When you’re ready to move on to the next part of the Harry Potter Universal Orlando park, you can stroll to your destination, and hop aboard the train whenever you want a lift somewhere.

What’s in store for visitors? Here are just of a few of the Harry Potter Theme Park rides and attractions. The Quidditch Skyway, in addition to the Hogwarts Express, is a transportation system. Passengers ride replica Nimbus 2000 broomsticks. For an added thrill, they aren’t enclosed; passengers hold on in the same way you hold on to a carousel horse. The Moaning Myrtle Express has visitors whirling through the theme park onboard toilets that spin, drop, invert, and twist. The Dragon Challenge roller coaster has two dueling roller coasters named after dragons involved in the Tri-Wizard Tournament in book four. The Hippogriff is another of the park’s roller coasters, abeit tamer so all members of the family can enjoy it.

Harry Potter Park in Orlando will have dining spots and restaurants, including the Hog’s Head, a traditional English pub. There’s an Owl Post Office, where you can actually send mail that will arrive at its destination with a Harry Potter Amusement Park postmark. There’s no lack of shopping either. Pottermaniacs can completely equip themselves by the time they leave at stores such as Hufflepuffs House of Magic Flutes, Olivander’s Magic Wand Shop, and Dervish & Banges where you can find apparel and other Quidditch equipment. There is, of course, even an elaborate Hogwarts Castle.

Visit the Harry Potter Theme Park and you will find plenty of Orlando hotels to accommodate you near to plenty of other Orlando attractions to keep entire families busy and happy for their entire vacations. The Harry Potter Universal Orlando park is located at Universal Studios Islands of Adventure. It is comparable in size to all other Universal parks.

Universal Studios

Like that "other" Orlando attraction destination, Universal Studios theme park Orlando is a world-class Florida attraction with wild rides and famous characters. Built as a direct challenge to Disney World in 1990, Universal Studios Orlando has succeeded with interactive rides where guests play action star in blockbuster movies. More than just a working studio theme park, Universal Studios Orlando destinations also include Universal Islands of Adventure amusement park, and the Wet 'n Wild water park.

Universal Studios

Discover a world beyond Disney at Universal Studios. Universal has six themed areas, made up of a Hollywood backlot area where guests enjoy interactive 3-D movies and film-related displays, and a lagoon encircled by awesome thrill rides. While grown-ups scream on action rides like Twister ... Ride It Out, Terminator 2 3-D: Battle Across Time, and Men in Black: Alien Attack, toddlers can spend A Day in the Park with Barney. Avoid long waits at major attractions with the Universal Express and Express PLUS passes.

Revenge of the Mummy takes you back to ancient Egypt in a $40-million indoor rollercoaster. Ten years in the making, this hi-tech surround-sound-enhanced ride hurls riders twisting and turning through darkened tombs past skeletal warriors, fireballs, and creepy crawlers.

Shrek 4-D lets you join Shrek, Princess Fiona, Lord Farquaad, and the Three Little Pigs on a multi-sensory fairytale adventure. Special effects involve water spritzers, pneumatic motion simulator seats, and "OgreVision" glasses.

Nickelodeon fans of all ages will enjoy Jimmy Neutron's Nicktoon Blast. Travel on state-of-the-art motion simulator seats in Jimmy's Rocket Pod, along with Cindy Vortex and Jimmy's robot dog Goddard. Also featured are characters from SpongeBob SquarePants, Rugrats, and the Wild Thornberrys.

Other longstanding favorites include ET Adventure, Earthquake - the Big One, and Jaws.

Universal Studios is a working motion picture and TV production studio. Occasionally there's live filming done at Nickelodeon's sound stage. Forty actual sets are exhibited along Hollywood Boulevard and Rodeo Drive.

Universal Islands of Adventure gives stiff competition to Tampa rival Busch Gardens and lesser cheap Florida theme parks for thrills. Its six themed areas include Marvel Super Hero Island, Toon Lagoon, Jurassic Park, Lost Continent, Seuss Landing, and Port of Entry.

The top draw is the Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, rated best attraction in the world by Theme Park Insider. It uses coordinated motion simulation, computer animation, 3-D glasses, and special fire and water effects. This literally amazing adventure sends you twisting, spinning, and flying after Spiderman's nemesis, Doc Oc, who breaks through a brick wall, raises your car to the top of a skyscraper, and then releases you for a simulated 400-foot free fall to the pavement below.

If you love roller coasters, you'll love Dueling Dragons. It suspends you beneath one roller coaster track as you hurtle into terrifying near misses with other riders coasting on a dual track.

Recently purchased by Universal, Wet 'n Wild is the most popular water slide park in America, with raft flumes, nearly vertical body slides, wave pools, water cannon battlegrounds, and the indoor water disco Disco H20.

UCF Arena

Just thirteen miles east of downtown Orlando is where you will find the UCF Arena. The University of Central Florida opened the UCF Arena in tandem with its new open-air football stadium, helping to give a fresh face to their already impressive campus. While the Bright House Networks Stadium is used primarily for college football games, the UCF Arena is a multi-purpose venue. In addition to serving as the home for the UCF Knight's volleyball and basketball teams, the UCF Arena Orlando also hosts concerts, commencement ceremonies, and other events. With more than 7,400 fixed seats, the UCF Arena doubles the capacity of the university's old arena. In addition to the fixed seats, there are also club seats, luxury suites, seats for the disabled, and retractable seats available depending on the event. When a scheduled event isn't taking place at the UCF Arena, it can be rented for private functions, such as dinner events, exhibitions, and parties.

While enjoying a vacation in Orlando, it's always a good idea to see what UCF Arena events coincide with your trip. For those who want to catch a concert while visiting Orlando , the UCF Arena is one of the best places to go in the city. Top name acts, such as Motley Crue, Carrie Underwood, Alan Jackson, and Jim Brickman swing by the arena rather consistently, so you might be surprised to see who's in town when you're in town. In addition to seeing what's on the agenda at the UCF Arena, those who are interested in catching a live music performance when they are in Orlando will also want to check out the schedule at the House of Blues. When big name acts aren't performing at the House of Blues, you can often catch a free concert by an up-and-coming artist. At both the UCF Arena and the House of Blues, it's always a good idea to get your tickets in advance if you want to see a top act perform. Even though the UCF Arena Orlando can hold over 10,000 people for a concert, tickets can sell out quickly.

As mentioned, sports are often the focus when it comes to UCF Arena events. For basketball fans, the chance to see the men's and women's teams play is a nice addition to Orlando itineraries. The basketball season heats up in December and carries on through early March. You can bet that both students and alumni alike come to the games, so you will also want to consider getting your UCF Arena tickets in advance when going to a basketball game. If you can't catch a college basketball game at the UCF Arena Orlando, you might try to get tickets to see the Harlem Globetrotters, who are known to showcase their talents and their unique brand of humor on the UCF Arena court from time to time. As for the volleyball season, it runs from late August to November, so you can plan accordingly if that's your sport of preference. The University of Central Florida is a Division I school, so you can bet that regardless of the sport you're watching, some talented players are going to be on display.

For those who are enjoying Orlando vacations during the holiday season, heading over to the UCF Arena to enjoy the "Light Up UCF" festivities is always worth considering. From mid-November to early January, the UCF Arena transforms itself a bit and becomes a center for holiday fun. During the day, visitors can skate on the outdoor skating rink, and when the evening sets in, a nightly light show occurs. Lucky kids will get to see Santa at the UCF Arena, as he makes a guest appearance a few days before Christmas, and on certain nights, free movies are played on a big screen. The movies include Christmas classics like A Christmas Story and How the Grinch Stole Christmas, making them UCF Arena events that the whole family can enjoy. The nightly light shows are free as well, and while you'll have to pay to go ice-skating, the price is an agreeable one. Whether you want to go ice skating, catch a sporting event, or see a concert at the UCF Arena, you might need to get tickets first. You can order your UCF Arena tickets for special events before you arrive, or you can stop by the UCF ticket office once you get into town. The ticket office is easy to find, as it's located at the front of the arena.

Silver Springs Theme Park

Because the Silver Springs Theme Park is 90 miles north of Orlando, it sometimes manages to miss the radars of Orlando vacationers. But you might be happy to know that the Orlando Card, which gets you in to a number of great area attractions, such as WonderWorks and Fun Spot, also includes admission to the Silver Springs Theme Park. Due to this fact, Silver Springs often gets mentioned in the same breath as the greater Orlando attractions. On your Silver Springs Orlando adventure, you'll enjoy a diverse range of attractions, from the popular glass bottom boat rides to the intriguing animal exhibits. The park sits on 350 beautiful acres so there's definitely plenty to explore.

Glass bottom boat cruises are a Silver Springs Orlando favorite, as they give passengers the chance to see what's going on below the surface of the Silver River . It's kind of like scuba diving or snorkeling without getting wet. The boats that carry passengers along the river are manned by licensed captains, and they provide cover from the warm Florida sun. While you explore the area headwaters, the kind of marine life that you might spot along the way includes turtles, alligators, and a number of different fish species. In addition to taking a glass bottom boat cruise, Silver Springs Theme Park visitors can also enjoy the Fort King River Cruise, which covers the history of the Silver River, and the Lost River Voyage Cruise, which usually involves quite a lot of animal viewing. Among the creatures that you are likely to see on the Lost River Voyage Cruise include alligators, osprey, heron, and turtles. While Orlando attractions like Disney's Animal Kingdom and Sea World are great places to see some exotic animals from across the globe, the Silver Springs Theme Park gives you a chance to witness some of the local species in their natural environments.

If you don't get to spot an alligator on one of the Silver Springs Orlando boat cruises, then you can head to the Big Gator Lagoon exhibit to see more than three dozen of them. A pair of rare white alligators also figure among the attractions at Silver Springs. Often referred to as "swamp ghosts," they are quite the sight to see. Other animal exhibits at the Silver Springs Theme Park include Panther Prowl, where you can see a western cougar, and the World of Bears, where Kodiak brown bears and North American black bears roam free on two acres of land. At the Ross Allen Island exhibit, visitors will get the chance to see an impressive collection of spiders, snakes, turtles, and other animal species that are native to Florida . For a more hands-on approach, your group can make way for the Kritter Korral exhibit. This is arguably the top choice for kid-friendly attractions at Silver Springs, as kids love to pet and feed the Kritter Korral goats, turkeys, rabbits, sheep, donkeys, and other farm animals. As a side note, for those who want to see a lot of alligators during their central Florida vacation, Gatorland is another great theme park to consider.

In addition to viewing a lot of different animals at the Silver Springs Theme Park , visitors can also check out over 100 different varieties of plants at the park's Botanical Gardens. Beautiful floral displays abound at the Botanical Gardens, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk along a lovely pathway. Upon seeing the beauty of the Botanical Gardens at Silver Springs, it's easy to see why it's a popular site for wedding photographs. After a stroll through the gardens, you might also take the chance to check out a bird, reptile, or snake show, or perhaps catch the 2:30 p.m. alligator feeding. For the opportunity to spot wildlife in a different environment, visitors can also enjoy Wilderness Trail tours, which involve heading out into a local forest. The attractions at Silver Springs are diverse. There's definitely something for everybody here.

As any good theme park usually does, the Silver Springs Theme Park also has some rides for its visitors to enjoy. The Kids Ahoy! Playland is home to a replica Riverboat, a Ferris Wheel, a playground, a carousel, and more. For a bigger thrill, you can ride the Lighthouse Ride, which is part carousel, part gondola. You'll be able to see far and wide once the Lighthouse Ride finishes its gentle climb to 80 feet. On top of having an array of fun rides, the Silver Springs Theme Park also boasts some souvenir shops, some quick-service restaurants, a bar and grill, and plenty of places to grab some snacks.

Sea World Orlando

That SeaWorld is a top Orlando Florida attraction is due in no small part due to Shamu and the orca’s crack team of handlers. But there is more to this wonderfully entertaining and educational park than an acrobatic killer whale. SeaWorld is devoted to demonstrating the ways we all can protect the mammals, birds, fish, and reptiles that live in the ocean and its tributaries. As the world's largest marine adventure park, SeaWorld uses gentle humor to bring us closer to these creatures to foster our responsibility in safeguarding their environment.

Like sea currents, the curving paths here include no distinct “lands” as in other Orlando theme parks, but instead center on a 17-acre lake. Exhibits feature manatees, dolphins, penguins, beluga whales, walruses, and other creatures of the sea.

Although the pace is slower here than at other thrill parks, it can get crowded at popular attractions like Penguin Encounter, Wild Arctic, Shark Encounter, Journey to Atlantis, and Key West at SeaWorld. There’s less chance of lines at the Key West Dolphin Stadium, Turtle Point, Stingray Lagoon, Manatees, Dolphin Cove, and the Sea Lion & Otter Stadium. Other attractions include Shark Encounter, Odyssea stage show, and the Dolphin Nursery and Tropical Reef.

At Shamu Stadium, the park's prize orca performs several times daily with Shamu Rocks America. Seating provides views from above and under the surface of the water. Be prepared to sit further back or get wet, as the killer whale's is happy to soak anyone within reach.

If you’ve ever had the fantasy to swim with dolphins, you will want to look into Discovery Cove. This all-inclusive limited-admission attraction only allows 1000 people a day into its authentic recreation of a Caribbean coral reef, complete with sandy beaches, cascading waterfalls, and underwater ruins. And best of all, you come face to face with exotic birds and sea life from the Bahamas, Micronesia, Tahiti, and other parts of the world, as well as swim with live dolphins.

SeaWorld is also home to some killer rides. Built to be the fastest, tallest, longest and wildest rollercoaster in Orlando, the savage Kraken hurls you at 65 mph and extreme G-forces through a cobra roll, zero-G roll, several vertical loops, and flat spins over water, underground, and entering an underwater eel lair at full speed, huge plumes of spray drenching bystanders. Don’t be surprised if afternoon thunderstorms cause temporary closures of Kraken, Journey to Atlantis, Sky Tower, Ski Show, Shamu's Happy Harbor, and the Paddle Boats.

If you get tired of whales Florida rescue shelters provide the stars at the SeaWorld Theater’s Pets Ahoy, where 12 dogs, 18 cats, and an assortment of ducks, doves, parrots, and a pig perform a series of incredible and complex stunts leading to a grand finale.

Across the street from the amusement park is the Renaissance Orlando Resort at SeaWorld, with a 10-story atrium full of waterfalls, goldfish ponds, exotic birds, and palm trees. It’s excellent restaurant, Atlantis, features Mediterranean cuisine.

Orlando Museum of Art

There are an amazing wealth of things to do when vacationing in Orlando, and quite often activities involve a lot of shooshing about in the Florida sun to a number of theme parks where sensory overload is the norm. As fun as the Orlando theme parks and overall attractions can be, sometimes it’s nice to head indoors for a quiet and reflective time like that found at the Orlando Museum of Art. The Orlando Art Museum was founded in 1924, and while encouraging community support for the arts, it holds true to its mission of enriching the cultural life of Florida. Orlando Museum of Arts pieces are included in collections that present the works of local and regional artists, as well as notable entries of national and international significance. For a pleasant Orlando Museum experience in the visual arts, make time during your next Orlando vacation to enjoy the Orlando Museum of Art.

The Orlando Art Museum offers 10-12 in-house exhibits year round, and maintains 13 exhibitions off-site. There are a number of award-winning tours you can take throughout the day, and educational programs focus not only on typical visitors, but on the Florida community as a whole. Through various outreach programs, the Orlando Museum of Art strives to educate not only its residents statewide, but national and foreign visitors as well. With their teacher in-service training programs, educators get a chance to develop their knowledge of art for the classroom, and various lectures offered to the public focus on art appreciation.

Among the Orlando Museum of Arts galleries, the visitor will find a number of temporary exhibits, and three permanent collections that offer a comprehensive array of works. The American Art Collection is comprised of paintings, drawings, prints and sculptures from the 1700's to the present. Expect to find works by such notables as Ansel Adams and Georgia O’Keeffe here. The Art of the Ancient Americas Collection showcases articles from over 30 different cultural groups from North, South and Central America. These objects date from 2000 B.C. to A.D. 1521. Also among the fixed collections is the African Art Collection. Ceremonial and practical artifacts from several different regions of Africa make up the bulk of this collection, as well as objects of personal adornment. You can enjoy these permanent Orlando Museum exhibits, as well as the rotating temporary exhibits that feature some of the most notable national traveling exhibits.

Among the various events offered at The Orlando Museum of Art, first Thursdays offer free admission to this great Orlando Museum from 6 p.m.- 9 p.m. and a new theme is presented through works by local artists. Live music, cash bars and café offerings from area restaurants are on the menu, and it presents a good opportunity to mingle with fellow art appreciators.

The Orlando Art Museum can be found at 2416 North Mills Avenue, and admission is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors (65+), college students with i.d., as well as groups of more than 10. Students ages 6-18 pay only $5, and children 5 and younger get in free. The Orlando Museum of Art is closed on Mondays, and open Tuesday-Friday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday hours are from Noon to 4 p.m.

Orlando Balloon Rides

A typical vacation to Orlando usually involves heading to places like Walt Disney World, SeaWorld Orlando, Universal Studios, and a number of other theme parks. If you are a golfer, you book a couple of rounds on the side to enjoy some of the best Florida golf courses, and the dining and shopping found in and around the area is enough to keep you busy for a couple of days at least. There are just so many things to do in this haven of good weather and sunshine, but have you ever considered booking a flight on one of the many Orlando balloon rides? A hot air balloon ride Orlando style involves soaring over the attractions for a bird’s eye view where you drift with the winds and enjoy the silence of floating. Orlando balloon rides start at the break of day, as the natural earth around you begins to come to life. If you have never had the opportunity before to take to the skies as such, be sure to book a hot air balloon ride Orlando on your next vacation to central Florida for an experience that you will never forget.

There are a number of different hot air balloon ride Orlando companies, ensuring that at some point during your next vacation to the area you should have every opportunity to enjoy this “uplifting” experience. Just be sure the night before your ride that you get to bed early, as flights begin just after sunrise when the winds are at their lightest. Many companies will pick you up at your hotel, or you meet at an arranged place where an initial briefing by your pilot takes place. Often, the site of your launch is dependent on wind and weather conditions, and most rides last for about an hour. However, you will want to reserve at least 3-4 hours out of your day for the whole experience. Getting the balloon ready is the first stage of actually getting off the ground, and with most companies you are encouraged to help if you so desire. Part of the preparation for Orlando balloon rides usually involves safety checks and last minute answers to any questions you might have. There is no such thing as a stupid question either before, during or after your hot air balloon ride Orlando. Four eyes are better than two, so if you have concerns about any obstructions you might consider dangerous during your flight, feel free to speak up. Safety is the main concern during Orlando balloon rides, and every company is focused on making your experience as safe as possible.

As far as what to wear during a hot air balloon ride Orlando, you should dress comfortably as possible and as you might for a country walk. Long trousers and flat shoes are recommended, and dress in layers to maximize your comfort. With the cooler temperatures during winter months, it is usually recommended to dress for how the weather feels on the ground, as the burners will keep you warm in the balloon. As you set up for and disembark from Orlando balloon rides, you might encounter wet or muddy fields, so keep that in mind. You might also consider bringing a hat to wear during your hot air balloon ride Orlando if you are thinning on top, as the radiant heat from the burners may leave you feeling a bit “hot-headed”. Other than that, just remember to bring your camera.

Disney area balloon rides Orlando give you an interesting perspective of the theme parks below, and these unique Florida tours in the sky allow you to see all the surrounding lakes of the area from above. Sometimes, during your Disney area balloon rides Orlando, you can spot alligators drifting along area waters, and you may just spot a bald eagle sharing the sky with you.

Most Disney area balloon rides Orlando companies operate 7 days a week and rates vary a bit for each, but the average price you should expect to pay is around $185 for a single adult, and somewhere around $100 for Jr. Adults. Children 9 and under usually ride for free, and rates for private Orlando balloon rides for couples will typically run you around $575. Many companies will pick you up if you are staying at one of the nearby Orlando hotels or Kissimmee hotels. More often than not, most companies like Orange Blossom and Magic Sunrise Ballooning, offer a ceremonial champagne toast at the end of your ride, as well as a post flight all you can eat breakfast buffet.

Lake Eola Orlando

When you find yourself in downtown Orlando and you are looking for a good place to relax and hang out for a bit, then Lake Eola Park might just be the ideal fit. Found at 195 N. Rosalind Avenue, Lake Eola Park is open to visitors between the hours of 6 a.m. and midnight, so there's plenty of time to enjoy it. It's not uncommon for downtown Orlando workers to take their lunch breaks at Lake Eola, as its beautiful surroundings do well to rejuvenate the mind. In addition to parking yourself on a bench or strolling about the Lake Eola Park walkways, visitors can also enjoy gondola tours, paddle boat rides, and more. There's even a playground here for kids, so the whole family will enjoy a visit. When the Orlando weather is nice, as it usually is, Lake Eola Park is simply an excellent place to be.

For those who want to enjoy Lake Eola Orlando gondola rides, they last approximately 30 minutes, so they won't take up a bunch of your time. Should you prefer to get a little more exercise out of your visit, you can always rent one of the swan-shaped paddle boats and give your legs a workout. Electric swan-shaped boats are also available for rent if you prefer to save your legs for something like a round of Orlando golf. In addition to taking boat rides, feeding the swans and the other birds at Lake Eola Park is a popular thing for visitors to do. Other things that you can do while hanging out at Eola Park include reading a book or having a picnic. You can also take to the walking paths to do some jogging if you want to fit in a nice workout. The beautiful setting of Lake Eola Park encourages just about any park-related activity that you can think of, which is part of the reason why locals cherish the park as much as they do.

Many folks who have enjoyed the Lake Eola Orlando experience will tell you that it's one of the best places in the city for people watching. The park is also ideal if you want to arrange an impromptu game of frisbee, or something the like, and kids will find the high-tech playground to be a dream. So impressive is the playground here that you might find yourself wishing that you were a kid again. Unless you are armed with a full picnic basket during your Lake Eola Orlando visit, there are few restaurants close to the park where you can grab something to eat or treat yourself to a glass of wine perhaps. You might even wander off around the downtown area to do a little shopping on the side. For those who are driving into town to check out Lake Eola , there is a parking garage a few blocks away. You can also find free and metered parking on some of the nearby city streets, but it can go fast. This is especially true during the different events at Lake Eola .

Overlooking Lake Eola is a Disney amphitheater where some of the events at Lake Eola take place. The amphitheater events at Lake Eola generally consist of plays, concerts, and things like candlelight vigils. Other events at Lake Eola include the 4th of July celebrations, the Sunday Farmers Markets, and the Orlando Food and Wine Festival. More than 20 of the top restaurants in Orlando showcase their talents at the Orlando Food and Wine Festival, which also features a beer pavilion and live music entertainment. If the Orlando Food and Wine Festival piques your interest, you might also consider visiting Orlando in late September. That's when the food and wine festival at Epcot Center begins its two-week run. Both festivals are excellent, so if you can catch both, then you are encouraged to do so.

Kennedy Space Center

Chances are that at some point in your life you either thought about being an astronaut, or at least about how cool it would be to fly into space. For most, space travel is extremely interesting and a trip to Florida just might not be complete without a visit to the NASA Kennedy Space Center. Located just 45 minutes from Orlando and about an hour south of Daytona Beach, the Kennedy Space Center is based on a large island wildlife refuge that is eight times larger than Manhattan. Many visitors come to this center of technology and discovery every year to experience a place where some of mankind’s greatest dreams and aspirations have become a reality. A truly unique experience awaits you at Kennedy Space Center Florida, where you can tour NASA’s launch and landing facilities, meet an actual astronaut, and experience interactive simulators. The Kennedy Space Center will both inspire and intrigue you from the moment you enter the Visitor Complex and begin your journey. So take a break from the great Florida beaches and Florida golf courses, steer away from Walt Disney World and Universal Studios for a day and find a different Florida experience at NASA Kennedy Space Center.

At the Visitor Complex of the Kennedy Space Center Florida, a collection of exhibits and shows will fill you with wonder and amazement. Before you delve into all there is to see and do at the Visitor Complex, you begin your day at the NASA Kennedy Space Center with a tour that takes you to the impressive NASA facilities. Included in the tour is a trip to see the massive launch pads, the expansive Vehicle Assembly Building, and the Apollo/Saturn V Center. Among the many options for Florida tours, this one ranks among the most interesting and unique.

Upon return to the Visitor Complex, guests of the Kennedy Space Center can easily fill the rest of the day exploring all the exhibits and taking in shows, whether live or on the world’s only back-to-back IMAX theaters. Pay homage to fallen heroes of space exploration history at the glorious glass-structure Astronaut Memorial, or head to the Rocket Garden to observe actual rockets from every space exploration era. Delve into the early days of space travel at the Early Space Exploration exhibit, and enter an actual Space Shuttle at Space Shuttle Plaza, where you can see how astronauts live and work on board. Among the highlights at the Visitor Complex is the Astronaut Hall of Fame, where visitors experience exhibits dedicated to famous astronauts. Here, the world’s largest collection of astronaut memorabilia joins forces with realistic astronaut training simulators to give lift-off to your imagination. As you enter the Astronaut Adventure room, your interactive adventure begins. Here, you can simulate walking on the moon, experience four times the force of gravity in the G-Force Trainer, ride a rover over Martian terrain, and coordinate a Space Shuttle landing.

For an interesting break in your day at the NASA Kennedy Space Center, you can make reservations to “Lunch with an Astronaut” during your visit. This gives you an unparalleled opportunity to talk one on one with a member of NASA’s Astronaut Corps while you enjoy a wonderful meal. And if your family is looking for the ultimate space experience, you can spend one or two days immersed in astronaut training with the Astronaut Training Experience (ATX).

The Kennedy Space Center Florida is open every day of the year, except for December 25th, and certain launch days. Operating hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and General Admission for adults is $38, and $28 for children ages 3-11. General Admission covers a tour of the Kennedy Space Center, IMAX space movies and all exhibits and shows, and is valid for two days. Tickets can be bought exclusively for the Astronaut Hall of Fame, which closes an hour later, and the price is $17 for adults, and $13 for children. The Annual Pass option will give you 12 months of admission, as well as discounts on programs like ATX, and 10% off select merchandise at the Space Shop souvenir store, and 10% off food and refreshments in Orbit Café and Mila’s restaurant. The Astronaut Training Experience runs at $250/person for one day, and includes training simulators, full scale Space Shuttle Mission Simulation, a VIP tour of Kennedy Space Center, and ATX gear, including a Mission polo shirt. Additional tours include NASA Up Close, Cape Canaveral: Then and Now, and Lunch with an Astronaut, and additional fees for each are $22 for adults, and $15 for children.
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