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Home to more than a dozen theme parks—including Universal Orlando Resort, Walt Disney World, and SeaWorld Orlando entices families, thrill seekers, and Mickey Mouse fans alike. But this central Florida city (around a 4-hour drive north of Miami) serves up more than just big attractions. For a true taste of the area, catch an airboat tour along the Everglades, off-road in an ATV, horseback ride through an eco reserve, or board a scenic cruise around the city. For a lesson on human spaceflight, head east to the famous Kennedy Space Center, and look for a gator or two if you opt to tour the area’s swampland.
Autumn is ideal for a visit to Orlando, as slightly cooler temperatures make outdoor activities much more enjoyable. Events like Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party are worth braving the crowds. Spring is also a fine time to explore the city. Temperatures aren’t too high, and there are fewer crowds than during the summer. The Florida Film Festival in Maitland and the Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival offer weeks of entertainment throughout the city’s hip and creative neighborhoods.
Downtown Orlando is compact, allowing you to walk from the Sunday farmers market at Lake Eola to an event at Amway Center within minutes. Lime bike rentals are available, and a free Lymmo bus has three routes around the city operating daily. The good news is that SunRail runs from DeBary to Kissimmee with one station downtown; the bad news is that schedules are limited, so rely on rideshares or private cars for exploring the wider area.
East End Market in Audubon Park requires a visit—and an appetite. Though it may be a small collection of local food stalls, it offers a mighty mix of local grub like half-pound cookies at Gideon’s Bakehouse, white cold brews at Lineage Coffee, and amazing wings at Domu. If your tastebuds need more, you’re only a few steps away from craft beer at Redlight Redlight, decadent scoops at Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream, and amazing sushi at Kadence.