Attractions
There is something for everyone in Orlando: from thrilling theme park rides to a peaceful day at the beach. Here are some of our favorite Orlando attractions. [Distance from Lake House in parentheses]
Local Finds
Lake house
Our house is on Little Lake Fairview, one of David's favorite fishing lakes. We have a boat, jet skis, a hot tub, lawn games, and general merriment. Also, shenanigans.Enzian Theater
[3 miles, 8 minutes] A fantastic non-profit movie house that features art movies, cult classics, as well as current movies. Make sure to show up a little early to get a drink at their bar and save room for dinner during the movie. They also offer free outdoor movies on Wednesday evenings and special events for the holidays.Stardust Coffee
[4 miles, 11 minutes] Orlando may not be known for its culture (and certainly not its counter-culture), but there hidden gems once you start looking. Stardust is one of those gems. A funky coffeehouse/lunch spot/bar, Stardust is a great place to hang out. Every Monday they hold a farmers market from 6pm-10pm where you can find local artisans as well as local and organic fruits, veggies, meat, and seafood.Castle Park
[2 miles, 6 minutes] An amazing old-school wood and tire playground shaped like a castle. Nothing else needs to be said. If you have kids, go here. If you don't have kids, go here.Big Wheel Truck
[Changes] The best food truck we have ever eaten at. Location and menu changes daily. Menu is based on what local organic food is available and in-season. Florida Avocado with Japanese Sticky Rice and Titusville Lump Crab, Grilled Spicy Local Octopus with Soy Glazed Roasted Sweet Potato, and Slow Roasted Local Pork Ribs with Sweet BBQ Sauce are just a couple of examples of their incredible options. Can be found at the Stardust farmers market Monday evenings.Museums
Orlando Science Center
[3 miles, 10 minutes] We consider ourselves science center aficionados and we highly recommend the Orlando Science Center. Take in the exhibits and catch an IMAX show at this musuem. Fun for all ages.Kennedy Space Center
[50 miles, 1 hour] Sadly the space shuttle program has come to an end, but there is still a lot to see and learn at the Space Center.Orlando Museum of Art
[3 miles, 10 minutes] African, American, and Contemporary art as well as rotating exhibitions.Theme Parks
Disney World
Disney World has 4 theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios) and 2 water parks (Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon). Late January is one of the best time to visit Disney: the holiday rush is over and the kids are back in school. We are planning a group trip to Magic Kingdom on Thursday January 19th, but we both highly recommend all of the other parks as well. Fun for the whole family!Universal Studios
Universal Studios consists of 2 theme parks (Universal Studios Florida and the Island's of Adventure) as well as Universal CityWalk (a night-time entertainment destination). The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at the Island's of Adventure is a must-see for anyone who has read the books.SeaWorld
An aquarium with rides! See Shamu perform and pet sting rays. A classic theme park.Discovery Cove
[19 miles, 25 minutes] Discovery Cove is ones of Christine's favorite parks. It is associated with SeaWorld but is a park in and of itself. Best for adults and older kids, Discovery Cove offers dolphin swims, a string ray wading pool, a beautiful salt water reef for snorkeling, and an aviary. Expect a relaxing day at Discovery Cove.Outdoors
Cocoa Beach
[65 miles, 1 hour 10 minutes] Swim, surf, play frisbee, or just relax on the beach. Just make sure to put on your sunscreen. We are planning a group trip here on Friday Janury 20 (weather permitting).Wekiwa Springs
[11.5 miles, 25 minutes] A beautiful state park with a natural spings in which you can swim, kayak, and canoe. Or you can explore the 13 miles of trails. Beautiful scencery and wildlife. Also, we got engaged here, so we have a soft spot for this park in our hearts.Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge
[90 miles, 1 hour 45 minutes] Various companies offer tours for snorkeling and diving with the manatees.