Orlando, Florida may be better known as the home of the world’s most famous mouse, but it’s so much more than that. In fact, if you’re looking to get out of the theme park bubble and see some spectacular natural beauty, Orlando has it in spades, making it a wonderful place to visit no matter what time of year you happen to go! Here are 7 of the most beautiful places in Orlando that you don’t want to miss if you’re ever looking for something truly magical and nature-filled in Florida!
Universal Studios
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Plan your trip to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure now. Now is a great time to visit Universal Studios Orlando Resort and Islands of Adventure: As you travel with kids during summer vacation and into Labor Day weekend, you can enjoy early-morning discounts at Universal’s parks if you buy tickets online or by phone. Another benefit: You won’t have to deal with long lines at ticket booths because you’ll already have your passes on your phone when you approach park turnstiles. Download the official Universal app (or use their mobile site) and buy discounted tickets directly from there.
Epcot
The Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow is one of Disney's newest theme parks and features 11 countries (including a United States exhibit) dedicated to progress and prosperity. Epcot is divided into two sections: Future World and World Showcase. It's home to some of Disney's most famous attractions including Soarin' Over California (over California), Maelstrom (set in Norway), Ellen's Energy Adventure (with Ellen DeGeneres) and The Seas with Nemo & Friends.
Disney Springs
As one of the most popular vacation destinations on Earth and home to Walt Disney World Resort and four theme parks: Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park (all just a stone’s throw away), it comes as no surprise that there are beautiful things to see around every corner. There is nowhere better for your family to stay than in a vacation home at Bay Lake Tower. Surrounded by gorgeous views from all sides, with three resort hotels nearby you will enjoy nothing but picturesque views from your room or rooftop terrace.
Winter Park
One of Winter Park’s greatest assets is its location—it’s nestled between the ski slopes of Kissimmee and Disney World, making it a go-to destination for families on vacation. Stroll down Park Avenue in Downtown Winter Park to admire art galleries, antique shops and restaurants or take a stroll at Lake Minneola Scenic Trail to view beautiful lakeside homes. Afterwards, head up north to Rollins College to spend some time on their nature trails. You can enjoy views of both mountains and waterfalls here! Or visit nearby Deland or Daytona Beach for mini getaways if you want more beach activities.
Downtown Orlando
This is easily one of our favorite spots in Orlando. It has a great nightlife and plenty of places to shop. There’s always something going on downtown and it’s a short drive to all of the theme parks. There are dozens of bars and restaurants to choose from too; we recommend Nona Mia for an authentic Italian meal or Peelander for some good sushi. We also love that there are multiple hotels down here as well, so there’s something affordable no matter your budget!
Loch Haven Park
Featuring a conservatory and botanical gardens, Loch Haven Park is home to dozens of trees native to Central Florida. Among its treasured orchids and palm trees are other naturalized plants such as bird-of-paradise flowers, butterfly bush and spider lilies. For more information on Loch Haven Park call 407-246-2280. The park is located at 750 N. Lakeshore Drive in east Orlando (downtown). It's open seven days a week from 8 a.m.-sunset year round for free.
Gatorland
Imagine if alligators could swim. That's what it's like at Gatorland, a 150-acre theme park with more than 2,000 live American alligators—as well as crocodiles and other reptiles—on display. At Tomoka Farms you can ride an airboat through a swamp that surrounds you on all sides; kayak past countless birds as they take flight from their nests high up in cypress trees; or stroll along an elevated boardwalk to discover animals such as turtles, foxes and raccoons up close. If you're feeling adventurous then head to Adventure Island where you'll find two rides—the Surf Ride and Congo River Rapids—and two shows: Birds of Prey and Killer Whale Island,When you mix limited flights with a destination, you get: Allegiant flight booking