There's More to Orlando Than Disney
Don't forget to take in some of the secret treasures of central Florida
By David Leonhardt
Orlando is one of the top tourism destinations in the world. It
features Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and Sea World.
People come from every continent to take in these famous theme
parks, and especially to meet Big Mickey.
But there is another Orlando, a city full of unexpected smaller
attractions, that you might want to take in when you want
something a little different or just a break from the crowds at
Disney World.
Kissimmee Rodeo. http://www.ksarodeo.com No, that's not a
misprint. The rodeos of the west have come to the south-east –
and they are just as much fun. Try this for something different.
Inland manatees.
http://www.floridastateparks.org/bluespring/default.asp People
often forget that Florida is more than just one big theme park
and the host to spring brake excess. It is also home to many
natural wonders. Blue Spring State Park is tucked in between
Orlando and Daytona Beach. Although it is an inland park, they
have 153 manatees this season, more than ever before.
Private Villa Rentals. http://www.lastminutevillas.net You don't
have to crowd the family into a cheap motel room in the Orlando
region. Nowhere in North America are there so many private villas
for rent (vacation home rentals). Look also for rental villas in
Orlando at http://www.orlandovillaowners.com.
Mystery Dinner. http://www.sleuths.com/Directions.html Half way
between Orlando and Disney World, it's no mystery why this show
packs a full house. This is your chance to participate in a real
murder mystery
Farm animal adventure. http://www.greenmeadowsfarm.com Every
child loves to pet animals. No, it does not replace Walt Disney
World, but it might make a nice little break in the middle of the
Disney excitement, and it is just a short distance south of the
Disney park.
Ahoy there, Captain. http://www.piratesdinneradventure.com Not
just the manatees have found their way inland. There are pirates
in Orlando, and they offer an interactive family dinner
spectacle.
Riverboat Cruise. http://www.rivershipromance.com It's not the
Mississippi, but the "Rivership Romance" cruises along the St.
Johns River, providing a first-hand connection with Florida's
rich, natural heritage. Dining and dancing accompany the natural
beauty.
A taste of Chicago. http://www.alcapones.com Don't be surprised
if you wind up eating with a gangster or two. Or if the police
burst in on your dinner to make a bust. This is a living tribute
to the legendary Gangland Chicago, and you are invited to
participate in the action.
It's a pity that these gems hide in the shadow of Planet Earth's
biggest theme park . You won't want to miss Walt Disney World,
but take some time out to see what others have missed. Your
friends back home will be impressed.
David Leonhardt is a freelance writer, and an online and offline
publicity specialist. Contact him at: mailto:info@thehappyguy.com
or visit his website at:
http://www.thehappyguy.com
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