Orlando Travel Guide, Florida USA. The History and Tourist Information. If there was ever a city dedicated to enjoyment, then Orlando is it. Even the most cursory drive through the city will tell you one thing: there is no disguising the fact Orlando is a city built on theme parks. Lots of them. Strange to think that until 1966, though, there was precious little here in central Florida. A few roadside attractions aside, it was one man, Walt Disney, who really changed the landscape. No matter which way you slice it, growth has spiralled thanks to a huge influx of tourists that followed the arrival of Walt Disney World Resort. Almost all of Florida's cities and resorts are based around its long coastline, naturally capitalising on the beaches or swampland national parks that attract so many international visitors. Orlando is the only real exception, a strange, idiosyncratic place in the middle of the Floridian wasteland, and coincidentally one of the most famous resort towns in the world attracting around 50 million tourists a year. Most head straight to one of the theme parks, the biggest and most famous being Disney World. Beginning with the original Magic Kingdom, which opened in 1971, the park has expanded to encompass three more theme parks, two water parks, a mini town called Downtown Disney and a pretty lakeside stretch known as the Boardwalk. But while theme parks dominate, Orlando has built a distinct character of its own. There has been a stab at giving the city some historic context with the promotion of 'Old Orlando', a stretch of the increasingly gentrified Downtown which includes Orange and Garland Avenues. There's also the pretty Lake Eola, with brick streets lined with old oak trees and 19th-century homes, as well as retro roadside attractions such as Gatorland. Really though, Orlando is all about encouraging as many people to have as much fun as they can cram into a fortnightwhether that's at Disney, Universal or in the city centre itself.

Orlando is a city in Central Florida and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The city is rich in theme parks, attractions, shopping, and nightlife, attracting millions of visitors every year. But Orlando is more than just a tourist destination. It is an important business center, as well as an art, cultural and educational center. The city has a rich history that goes far beyond its role as a resort town. Orlando's history dates back to 1838, when the U.S. Army occupied the area after the War of 1812 and gave it its name. Over the years, the area has been settled by Spanish settlers, African Americans, and European immigrants. Orlando was officially incorporated as a city in 1875. In the late 19th century, Orlando became an important center of the citrus industry. In the 1920s, a building boom began with roads, schools and public buildings. During World War II, the U.S. government took advantage of Orlando's strategic location in Florida to build several military installations here. Since Orlando's first theme park resort opened in the 1960s, Orlando has become one of the premier theme and amusement park destinations. Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld, and Legoland Florida are just a few of the area's most famous parks. The city is known for its amusement parks, but Orlando has many other amusement parks. The city is home to several important museums, including the Orlando Museum of Art and the Orlando Science Center. In addition, there are numerous theaters, concert halls, and venues for live entertainment. Orlando is also an important educational location, as it is home to several prestigious colleges and universities, including the University of Central Florida and Rollins College. Orlando also has a rich culture and a growing arts scene. The Orlando Shakespeare Theatre and the Orlando Ballet are just two examples of the city's many cultural institutions. There is also a vibrant music scene with many clubs and concert halls. With its history, culture, and many attractions, Orlando is a fascinating destination. This book will help you make the most of your visit to this unique city.

Welcome to Orlando, the vibrant heart of Central Florida! Nestled in the Sunshine State, Orlando beckons with its unique blend of enchanting theme parks, lush landscapes, and rich cultural tapestry. Before delving into the depths of this fascinating city, let us embark on a journey through its preface, unraveling the essence that makes Orlando a magnet for visitors from across the globe. At first glance, Orlando may seem synonymous with its world-renowned theme parks, such as Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando. Indeed, these iconic attractions have etched themselves into the collective consciousness of millions, offering unparalleled entertainment and unforgettable experiences for guests of all ages. From the magical enchantment of Cinderella's Castle to the pulse-pounding thrills of roller coasters, Orlando's theme parks weave dreams into reality, fostering a sense of wonder and joy that transcends generations. Yet, beyond the whimsical realms of fantasy, Orlando reveals itself as a dynamic city pulsating with life and energy. Its diverse neighborhoods showcase a kaleidoscope of cultures, cuisines, and communities, creating a mosaic of experiences waiting to be explored. From the trendy boutiques of Winter Park to the vibrant street art of Mills 50, Orlando's eclectic spirit thrives in every corner, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its rich tapestry of urban delights. Moreover, Orlando's natural beauty captivates with its pristine lakes, lush parks, and scenic trails. Whether strolling along the shores of Lake Eola or canoeing through the winding waterways of the Wekiva River, outdoor enthusiasts will find endless opportunities to connect with nature and rejuvenate their spirits amidst the city's verdant landscapes. As we embark on this journey through Orlando, let us embrace the spirit of adventure and discovery that defines this remarkable city. From its iconic attractions to its hidden gems, Orlando beckons with open arms, ready to enchant, inspire, and delight. So come, dear reader, and let us uncover the treasures that await in the heart of the Sunshine State.

Are you excited about planning your next trip? Do you want to try something new? Would you like some guidance from a local? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then this Greater Than a Tourist book is for you. Greater than a tourist-Orlando, Florida USA by Dan Morrison offers the inside scoop on Orlando. Most travel books tell you how to travel like a tourist. Although there is nothing wrong with that, as part of the Greater Than a Tourist series, this book will give you travel tips from someone who has lived at your next travel destination. In these pages, you will discover advice that will help you throughout your stay. This book will not tell you exact addresses or store hours but instead will give you excitement and knowledge from a local that you may not find in other smaller print travel books. Travel like a local. Slow down, stay in one place, and get to know the people and culture. By the time you finish this book, you will be eager and prepared to travel to your next destination. Inside this travel guide book you will find: Insider tips from a local. Packing and planning list. List of travel questions to ask yourself or others while traveling. A place to write your travel bucket list. OUR STORY Traveling is a passion of the Greater than a Tourist book series creator. Lisa studied abroad in college, and for their honeymoon Lisa and her husband toured Europe. During her travels to Malta, an older man tried to give her some advice based on his own experience living on the island since he was a young boy. She was not sure if she should talk to the stranger but was interested in his advice. When traveling to some places she was wary to talk to locals because she was afraid that they weren't being genuine. Through her travels, Lisa learned how much locals had to share with tourists. Lisa created the Greater Than a Tourist book series to help connect people with locals. A topic that locals are very passionate about sharing.

A guide to visiting the odd and less known tourist attractions in the state of Florida.

"Comprehensive coverage of theme parks, dinner theater, mini-golf, water parks, adventure outings, sports, museums, and more"--Back cover