You can have your Las Vegas or your Big Apple... one city stands tall as the undisputed leader in vacations: Orlando, Florida. If you were to tackle every possible destination and activity in this city, the state's third largest metropolitan area, after Miami and Tampa, the sun would probably burn out before you succeeded! Of course, the Greater Orlando metropolitan area is the home of Walt Disney World Orlando. That alone would seem to cement this area (home to more than 2 million residents) as the 'King of Family Fun.' Locals benefit the most from Orlando's magnetic attraction. Orlando shopping is some of the best in the world catering to the tastes of people worldwide.
But have you ever considered all of the many other Greater Orlando attractions, including such fan-favorites for locals and tourists, alike, as SeaWorld, Universal Orlando Resort, Wet 'N Wild, The Ripley's Believe It Or Not, and Gatorland? That's why an estimated 52 million tourists head for this Central Florida city every year. It's quite likely that you're in town for business, as Orlando, FL boasts the nation's 2nd largest number of hotel rooms (after Las Vegas). The value range of Orlando hotels varies greatly, from motels to five-star Orlando resorts. Orlando, Florida is home to the Orange County Convention Center, offering the country's 2nd largest amount of square footage. Locals and visitors, find that golf is a major passion in Orlando. This city offers a remarkable number of courses for players of every skill level, including several championship courses.
Before and after every attraction and event, Orlando restaurants are ready to serve delicious meals with an international flair. Orlando offers the taste from around the world, so locals and tourists can be treated to a different ethnic dish for every meal of the day.
It's no surprise that Orlando, FL offers vacationers of every age and interest the perfect get-away. There is an endless array of accommodations, including motels, hotels and resorts, ideal for every budget and preference. Naturally, the majority of these lodgings are located close to popular Orlando attractions. When it comes to dining, Orlando doesn't disappoint, and you'll find restaurants and cafes catering to virtually every craving. This city is a melting pot, after all, attracting travelers from every corner of the globe.
Culturally, there are plenty of Orlando, Florida attractions other than theme parks like Walt Disney World. Orlando, FL is the home of several professional and semi-professional theaters, as well as museums, galleries, festivals, and historical attractions. The Greater Orlando area houses multiple institutions for higher learning, including prestigious colleges and universities. In fact, Orlando's University of Central Florida now boasts the nation's 6th largest enrollment.
There is also a bustling downtown Orlando, FL area, which is now undergoing major redevelopment, including a variety of residential, commercial and government projects. Located close by, Orlando International Airport (MCO), the state's busiest airport, was ranked by passengers as the nation's #1 airport. There are also smaller air facilities, as well as excellent highways. So while Walt Disney World/Orlando connection is hard to miss, remember that there is a world of possibilities to keep you and your loved ones entertained in this city. Once you visit Orlando, FL, you'll find it hard to leave!