Orlando is synonymous with theme parks. However, since Walt Disney World is located southwest of the city in Lake Buena Vista, many vacationers only set foot in Orlando when they arrive and depart through the airport. A controversial proposal that won't die, but has yet to move forward, would establish a high-speed rail service to shuttle passengers directly from the airport to Walt Disney World. While that would remove a lot of traffic from the area's clogged roadways, it would also deprive many visitors from even seeing Orlando, except as a high-speed blur, during their vacation. And that would be a shame.
While Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, SeaWorld, and other themed attractions are the lure that draws millions of travelers to Central Florida, the area offers some wonderful sights to see that don't involve costumed characters, stomach-churning drops, or rat-maze lines. Yes, the parks are magnificent; but, if you are planning to spend about a week or more on your trip, you should consider exploring some of the area's cultural and natural offerings. There's more to life than theme parks (remember, the preceding bit of wisdom is courtesy of About's Theme Park Guide!), and Orlando's alternative diversions will reenergize you and help you enjoy a more balanced, pleasurable vacation.
Orange County Regional History Center
Downtown Orlando, (407) 836-8500A great place to begin your exploration of the world that exists beyond Disney's property is this wonderful museum. As you might imagine, Disney's critical role in the area's history (a museum staffer jokingly refers to the periods, "B.D." and "A.D.," before and after Disney) gets some prominent attention. But, the History Center also has some dynamic, interactive exhibits that showcase the heritage of the native Paleo-Indians, the pioneer "Crackers" that settled in Central Florida, the Europeans that introduced citrus trees and sparked a thriving industry, the Space Program, and other important people and events along Orange County's evolving timeline. The tour kicks off with a multimedia presentation held on a "back porch," complete with rocking chairs. The museum, housed in an old, lovely converted courthouse building, is engaging and offers a unique perspective of the real world that coexists among the theme parks' fantasy worlds.
Just up the street from the History Center is Lake Eola Park (407-246-2827). The urban park offers a delightful 1-mile walk around its 23-acre man-made lake. Flower gardens, fountains, and swans help set the park's lovely tone. An amphitheater at one end of the lake features free performances.
