If you’ve ever flown into Orlando, you know that the minute you walk off the plane you’re bombarded with Disney ads, images and merchandise, not to mention competing images from Universal Studios, Wet’n'Wild and Seaworld. And there’re good reasons for all of it.
As far as entertainment, appeal and customer service go, Orlando’s theme parks are amazing. But it’s a shame that most visitors to Orlando come and go without ever seeing the “real city,” and folks who don’t like theme parks often stay away altogether. Unfortunately, travelers at both ends of the spectrum miss out on the rest of the city … yes, there’s more.
To start, steer clear of I-Drive and stay downtown. The Westin Grand Bohemian, a favorite of business travelers, features spacious guest rooms outfitted with sophisticated décor and an on-site art gallery. Plus, it’s convenient to the local night scene and Winterpark, and the hotel restaurant The Boheme serves a fantastic breakfast, from petite steak and eggs to cinnamon Grand Marnier French toast.
Start your day at the Orlando Science Center, one of the city’s best family attractions, where you can enjoy a film like Mummies: Secrets of the Pharaohs or Hurricane on the Bayou at the CineDome or catch a show at the planetarium. Interactive exhibits include Dr. Dare’s Laboratory, where visitors may conduct hands-on experiments with staff supervision.
After leaving the Science Center, drive to Winter Park just north of downtown, and spend the afternoon exploring this high-end community, noted for its cultural attractions, historic architecture, centralized downtown and pedestrian-friendly design. For lunch, fresh tasty plates of Chinese fare await at Winnie’s Oriental Garden.
Then, the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour offers the perfect opportunity to relax after lunch and get to know the neighborhood. A far cry from the tech-y park attractions, this pontoon boat tour covers twelve miles of lakes and canals and showcases beautiful landscaping and grand homes built long before Mr. Disney set foot in Florida.
When the cruise is over, wander down the neighborhood’s best shopping street, Park Avenue, a popular pedestrian destination. Among the variety of specialty stores, be sure to browse through Brandywine Books‘ unique collection and stock up on birthday cards and stationary at the Red Marq greeting card store.
Check your watch occasionally to make sure you don’t miss your dinner reservation at Café de France, right down the road. This charming neighborhood bistro turns out remarkable French cuisine that rivals the fare of some of the city’s opulent dining rooms. Linger over the dinner table and enjoy grilled lamb chops and warm lentil salad with a bottle of imported red.
After dinner, head back to town, where the action’s just beginning. North Orange Avenue’s lined with some awesome clubs, such The Social, where locals come for the best music scene in town. Stay to hear an exciting lineup of emerging musicians perform and take advantage of the prime people watching opportunities afforded by the diverse clientele. Here, you’ll really “see Orlando.”
