STAY & PLAY
Join us for a special three-part series focused on summer fun in Florida.
STAY AND PLAY
REDISCOVER
The Sunshine State from Coast to Coast
Summer travel season has arrived. There’s no better time to explore our beautiful state and all that it has to offer.
AMELIA ISLAND
A world-class destination for golf, this two mile wide and 13-mile long island features five courses, resorts with golf schools and golf pros at the public course. This totals over 100 holes of golf that are surrounded by breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway.
NORTH FLORIDA TALLAHASSEE
The state capitol is rich in history, playing a role in Florida and national politics since the creation of the first Capitol Building – a small log cabin – in 1824. Explore the Florida Historic Capitol Museum to learn about Tallahassee’s political history, and make sure to visit the 22nd Floor of the Capitol Building for a panoramic view of the city.
WHILE YOU’RE THERE… • Take a guided kayak tour of the island. You can choose to go on the barhopping tour, which takes you from sand bar to sand bar when the tide goes out to hunt for shells and play in the tidal pools. Or kayak by the Kingsley Plantation on Fort George Island, where you will learn about history, see many species of birds and maybe even see a dolphin jump or pass by a manatee. • Go horseback riding along the beach at The Kelly Seahorse Ranch, one of the few places in the country to offer this experience. • Visit Fort George Island State Park, where you can explore the natural habitat of the local animals while bicycling, hiking, kayaking or even traveling by Segway. Fishing and geo-seeking opportunities are available, too.
WHILE YOU’RE THERE… • Discover Tallahassee during an outdoor adventure on one of the city’s many trails, including the Lafayette Heritage Trail, Wakulla Springs Trail and the Lake Talquin State Park Trail. Each offers its own unique view, revealing the true beauty of Tallahassee. • Visit the oldest public cemetery in Tallahassee, the St. Johns Episcopal Church Cemetery, which is the final resting place for famous Florida governors and congressmen and even Catherine Murat, great grandniece of George Washington. • Pick your own blueberries at Saladino’s Red Barn Farms, an organic, family-run blueberry farm.
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PONCE INLET
This relaxed beach town near Daytona is the perfect spot for surfers as well as regular beach goers who just want to lie in the sand and soak up the sun. The town got its name from famous explorer, Ponce de Leon, who explored the area in the 1500s. Since then, Ponce Inlet has earned its reputation for being a quaint town where locals and visitors alike can get away from it all.
CENTRAL FLORIDA CLEARWATER
Clearwater Beach is known for its miles of beautiful beaches along the Gulf of Mexico - perfect for boating, fishing or just laying out - and the area has won plenty of awards for best beach. But a getaway here means more than just taking part in water sports and soaking up the sun. You will find all kinds of adventures at this island paradise.
WHILE YOU’RE THERE… • Climb to the top of Florida’s tallest lighthouse, the Ponce de Leon Inlet Light Station, where you will be able to see for miles. Be sure to stop at the lighthouse museum to learn The Elthe Vezarea’ patioshas about history. beautiful ocean views. • Go deep sea fishing with a charter company in the area. You’re sure to catch something delicious for dinner. • Have a picnic at Lighthouse Point Park, a 52-acre park where you can also walk along the nature trails or go swimming.
WHILE YOU’RE THERE… • Visit Winter the dolphin at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Winter lost her tail after being trapped in a crab trap line and learned to swim with a prosthetic tail. • Head down to the pier for the nightly Sunsets at Pier 60 festival. Crafters, street performers and musicians entertain along the pier as the sun dips below the horizon. • On your way to and from Clearwater, stop at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino to test your luck on the poker tables or slot machines.
Perfect Prime Rib at Steak 954.
SOUTH FLORIDA BOCA GRANDE
A true diamond in the rough, Boca Grande is a small-town vacation destination for presidents and celebrities, as well as anyone looking to leave the world behind for a little while. Located on the island of Gasparilla, this barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico is seven miles long and has sandy white beaches, crystal clear water and is the perfect place for a relaxing beach getaway. WHILE YOU’RE THERE… • Charter a boat for a day of fishing in the Boca Grande Pass and take part in some of the best tarpon fishing in Florida.
•R ent a bicycle or golf cart – the preferred methods of travel for islanders – for a day of exploring the island from top to bottom. Stop for homemade ice cream in the middle of town or for a tour of the Boca Grande lighthouse, which is over 100 years old, at the southern end. •D uring season, play golf at the historic Gasparilla Inn & Club, a par 72 course with scenic views of Charlotte Harbor.
THE FLORIDA KEYS
A prime destination for plenty of fun in the sun, there is much to see and do along the 125-mile-long chain of islands that encompass The Florida Keys. From fishing and watersports to entertainment and restaurants that can be enjoyed along the drive, it’s a trip that promotes both relaxation and adventure. WHILE YOU’RE THERE… • Swim and interact with dolphins and go behind the scenes to see how the staff cares for them at Dolphins Plus in Key Largo. • Stop for lunch at Robbie’s Marina of Islamorada and feed one of the famous tarpon that visit their dock for a meal of their own. You may even get one to rise up out of the water to take the fish right out of your hand. • Watch the sun sink beneath the horizon (and maybe see the famous green flash) from Key West’s Mallory Square.
Central Florida Lifestyle | 2020
STAY AND PLAY
Be a Tourist
in Your Own Backyard DISNEY SPRINGS
Opening Date: May 20 Disney Springs began its phased opening with vendors such as The Polite Pig and Wine Bar George followed by some Disney properties like the World of Disney store. New procedures, including temperature checks, limiting capacity and requiring both employees and guests to wear masks, were put in place in accordance with CDC guidelines. Check the Disney
Orlando’s attractions will continue to open their doors throughout the summer. Here’s a short list of some attractions that have opened with more to come.
Springs social media channels for more information on additional restaurant, retail and entertainment venue openings as they’re announced.
GATORLAND
Opening Date: May 23 Gatorland is a 110-acre theme park that combines Old Florida charm with exciting experiences, exhibits and entertainment. It features thousands
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STAY AND PLAY of alligators and crocodiles, a breeding marsh with observation tower, a free-flight aviary, nature walk, a petting zoo, educational wildlife programs and one-of-a-kind shows including Gator Jumparoo, Alligators-Legends of the Swamp and Up-close Encounters. Popular adventure experiences inside the park include the Screamin’ Gator Zipline and Stompin’ Gator Off-Road Adventure. A new character, the Social Distancing Skunk Ape, is on hand to remind guests to stay 6 feet apart and wash their hands.
ICON PARK
Opening Date: June 3 ICON Park™ is a 20-acre, walkable entertainment destination in the heart of Orlando’s International Drive. A perfect place to ride, dine, drink and explore, ICON Park has more than 40 restaurants, funky bars, boutique shops and can’t-miss attractions, all anchored by The Wheel, which stands 400 feet — 40 stories — in the air. Guests at ICON Park can visit SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, Madame Tussauds Orlando, Arcade City, 7D Dark Ride Adventure and StarFlyer Orlando, the world’s tallest swing ride. ICON Park is now offering an all-access Play Pass that is full of family fun at their attractions and that offers discounts at some restaurant and retail spaces.
ISLAND H20 LIVE! Opening Date: May 30
Island H20 Live! offers an immersive and interactive experience for people of all ages. Guests were welcomed back last month with new Safe-Splash Guidelines in place, such as verbal screenings and temperature checks for employees and guests, social distancing requirements and increased sanitation, among others. Face coverings are recommended for guests between rides and attractions; however, they aren’t permitted while in the water or on the rides. Guests are encouraged to review the full safety guidelines online prior to arriving and to purchase a ticket online to ensure entry, as the water park is closed on certain days in June and could reach capacity on days that it’s open.
THEME PARKS
Opening Dates: June 5 (Universal Orlando), June 11 (SeaWorld Orlando), July 11 (Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom) and July 15 (Epcot and Hollywood Studios) One of the hottest topics surrounding Florida’s reopening plans involved one of the state’s biggest tourism draws: theme parks. Park executives had to submit plans outlining safety procedures on the local level before they could be presented to the governor for final approval. All were approved with changes that include requiring guests to wear masks, temperature checks before entering, social distancing in lines as well as on rides, and mobile ordering and payments once inside. Openings will take place throughout the summer. SeaWorld and Disney parks will require guests to make reservations for the days they would like to visit.
WILD FLORIDA
Opening Date: May 4 Wild Florida has been the place to be for animal encounters since the beginning of last month. Its drivethrough safari, where you can see more than 100 native and exotic animals, opened first and has drawn visitors from across Central Florida. Now, there are also opportunities to feed a giraffe, explore the alligator park and take an airboat ride. Be sure to book your drive-through safari experience in advance, as it could sell out due to limited capacity, especially on weekends.
WONDERWORKS Opening Date: May 29
The upside down attraction on International Drive offers interactive fun for people of all ages. From a variety of educational Wonder Zones to a Glow-in-theDark Ropes Course and Laser-Tag, there are hours of fun to be had. Wonderworks opened with new protocols such as social distancing requirements, employee health screenings and mask requirements for employees (masks are encouraged for guests as well). Additionally, some of the interactive exhibits may be closed and there may be a wait time for same-day re-entry if guests leave the building.
Visit CentralFloridaLifestyle.com for a full list of attractions openings. Central Florida Lifestyle | 2020
FLORIDA RESIDENTS SAVE AN EXTRA $10! (NON RESIDENTS $65)
7 ATTRACTIONS ONE LOW PRICE! Plus SHOPPING & DINING DISCOUNTS!
NOW THRU 8/31 ONLY
$55 Get your PLAY PASS today at ICONParkOrlando.com THE ICON PARK PLAY PASS INCLUDES (1) ADMISSION TO: The Wheel at ICON Park, Madame Tussauds Orlando, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, Orlando StarFlyer, Pearl Express Train, 7D Dark Ride & $5 Arcade City Play Card. All Play Pass entitlements must be utilized within 30 days of purchase. Attractions are subject to change and substitution without notice. Not to be combined with other offers. Other restrictions and exclusions may apply. Florida resident offer valid thru August 31, 2020. Proof of residency required for purchase. Non-resident price is $65.
ICON Park | Free Parking | 8375 International Drive | Orlando, FL 32819 | 407-601-7907 www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com
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STAY AND PLAY • • • • • • B R O U G H T T O Y O U BY • • • • • •
Welcoming Back Tourism
T
he Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association (CFHLA) welcomes the re-opening of hospitality and tourismrelated businesses in Central Florida. Lodging establishments throughout Orlando have been eagerly awaiting the opportunity to bring their team members and employees safely back to work. As operations resume at our world-class theme parks and hotels, thousands of Central Florida hospitality and tourism employees will be able to rejoin the workforce. As travel resumes, both local and nationwide, the Central Florida community will once again benefit from the tremendous sales-tax and hotel-tax revenues paid by our visitors. If your family plans to get away for a while this summer, we encourage you to support Central Florida’s tourism industry by booking a room at a local resort and enjoying its
Rich Maladecki is president and CEO of the Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association, the world’s largest regional hotel association (www.CFHLA.org).
Central Florida Lifestyle | July 2020
amazing amenities as well as experiencing the attractions and restaurants that are nearby. Many of the area’s hotels and resorts are offering special Florida resident rates and exciting staycation packages that offer fun in the sun for the whole family. This year has proven to be extremely challenging and the tourism community stands ready to once again provide exceptional service, reflecting new customs in social distancing and safety guidelines in our theme parks, hotels, restaurants, and retail businesses to the world’s most visited destination, Orlando.
A DREAM COME TRUE. Experience Central Florida’s only Five Diamond resort, with special rates exclusively for Florida residents starting at $359 per night with parking included, through September 30, 2020. Enjoy complimentary kids’ camp daily and much more.
Reservations available by telephone only: 407-313-4900
There is no resort fee at Four Seasons Resort Orlando! Guests staying on this special offer are required to present a valid Florida identification upon check in. For more information about the resort, visit www.fourseasons.com/orlando www.CentralFloridaLifestyle.com
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STAY AND PLAY If you’re looking for an amazing summer vacation, you don’t have to look too far. Stay and play locally at Orlando’s attractions, golf courses and savor the flavors of a variety of dining options nearby. Explore some of our favorites for a fun summer escape. Four Seasons Resort Orlando Set inside the Walt Disney World Resort, Four Seasons Resort Orlando offers many amenities that appeal to guests of all ages. While you’re there, tee off on the golf course, splash around with the kids at Explorer Island Water Park (or relax at the adults-only pool), treat yourself to a massage at The Spa and much more. The resort recognizes that the expectations and needs of the hotel experience have changed, and the safety and comfort of guests, employees and residents remains of highest priority. Through its new Lead with Care program, the resort receives ongoing, real-time guidance, leveraging world-class medical expertise to focus on enhancing cleanliness, guest comfort and safety, and employee training. In addition to this careful approach to safety, high-touch surfaces throughout the resort, including all guest rooms, are being treated on an intensified cleaning and sanitizing schedule, including the use of electrostatic sprayers to apply disinfectants. This summer, the resort is offering its new Experience More package, which includes a $200 nightly credit for stays in a guest room or a $500 nightly credit for stays in a one- or two-bedroom suite. Other offers include special Florida resident rates (with parking included) through Sept. 30.
Summer Bay Orlando Resort From the moment you check in to Summer Bay Orlando Resort, you can begin to relax and indulge in your vacation. Once you settle into your room, unwind with an adult beverage at one of three pool bars, swim in one of six heated swimming pools, play a game of miniature golf and more. While the proximity to local attractions makes this an ideal staycation location, so, too, do the on-site dining
Central Florida Lifestyle | July 2020
options. From poolside treats to dine-in restaurants, you can plan a meal out without going too far. The resort’s one-, two- and three-bedroom accommodations include a fully equipped kitchen so you can prepare meals as a family in the comfort of your room. There is even a grocery delivery concierge service so you don’t have to leave the resort to shop. Exploria Resorts and Summer Bay Orlando are committed to maintaining high standards of cleanliness and hygiene. In response to the coronavirus, Exploria Resorts has taken additional measures developed in consultation with global and local public health authorities, including the WHO and CDC. Additionally, upon arrival, We Care Kits complete with face masks and hand sanitizer are distributed to families to use at their discretion. Through the Hug Your Family promotion, guests can save 25% on a two-night minimum stay at Summer Bay Orlando when booked by Aug. 31 with arrival dates between June 1, 2020 and Sept. 20, 2020. This allows for a full summer of fun with the whole family.
WELCOME Staycationers!
IT’S ALL HERE AT
Summer Bay Orlando BY EXPLORIA RESORTS…
SO CLOSE TO HOME… your home away from home…
Spacious accommodations feature 1, 2, and 3-bedroom floorplans, and include a fully equipped kitchen, living and dining areas, even washer and dryers. Enjoy access to convenient grilling stations, restaurants offering on-site dining and delivery options, activities and even a concierge grocery delivery service. Here you’ll enjoy a range of refreshing swimming pool environments from quiet and serene to lively and entertaining. It’s your choice. And there’s an interactive water playground just for kids PLUS an exciting adventure park, 18-hole mini golf course, a 64-acre spring fed lake with jet ski rentals and fishing and an activities center filled with daily fun for every member of the family … all just a short drive away from your Central Florida location. Enjoy the warm weather and get back to doing what brings you joy: a family barbeque, swimming, or a game of tennis, exploring nature... the choices are many at Summer Bay Orlando by Exploria Resorts where you can stay safe and enjoy a summer vacation close to home, together.
*SPECIAL OFFER*
Enjoy a 2-NIGHT minimum STAY at Summer Bay Orlando
& receive 25%
OFF the current rental rate.
CALL 855-849-2205 and mention code “LIFESTYLE” to reserve your
Staycation through December 20, 2020. Offer expires August 31, 2020. 17805 US Highway 192 W, Clermont, FL 34714
EXTRA precautions are in place all throughout our resorts to keep our guests and team members safe. Read more at www.ExploriaResorts.com.
STAY AND PLAY The Alfond Inn at Rollins Get ready for a YAY!cation Getaway in the heart of Winter Park. The Alfond Inn at Rollins, a 112-room boutique hotel, is offering a package that includes a onenight stay in a classic room with complimentary parking, a $50 hotel credit per stay and rates starting at $219 per night. Florida residents receive an additional 10% off. While you’re there, enjoy the many amenities, including a conservatory, a courtyard, an elevated pool and a fitness center. On-site dining includes Hamilton’s Kitchen, which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner both indoors and on its spacious patio. Also, Park Avenue is nearby for an additional selection of restaurants that cover all cuisines. Winter Park has long been a haven for art lovers. The Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens has a lakeside sculpture garden and gallery that has just
reopened to visitors. The Alfond Inn at Rollins itself was designed to exhibit rotating installations of works from The Alfond Collection of Contemporary Art, which is part of the collection of the Cornell Fine Arts Museum at Rollins College, making it the only hotel in the United States that serves as an actual extension of an art museum.
Wyndham Grand Orlando Bonnet Creek Just a short drive to the Walt Disney World Resort, Wyndham Grand Orlando Bonnet Creek offers a luxurious staycation experience. Pamper yourself with a treatment at the Blue Harmony Spa, which is open Wednesday through Sunday; relax in the pool; play miniature golf or shuffleboard; stroll along the walking path along the lake; and have a special meal at one of the on-site restaurants. Call ahead for availability.
PACK YOUR BAGS FOR A
mer m u S tion a c y Sta
THE DREAM AWAY Up to 20% Off* FLORIDA RESIDENTS Up to 12% Off*
DoubleTree Orlando at SeaWorld 10100 International Dr Orlando, FL 32821 (407) 352-1100 | dtresortorlando.com *Based on availability some restrictions may apply
Central Florida Lifestyle | July 2020
THE ULTIMATE Staycation
YOU'VE BEEN WAITING FOR Your GRAND escape is only a short drive away! It's time to focus on YOU, by relaxing in one of our luxurious guestrooms, soaking up the sun with the family poolside and enjoying stress free, award-winning meals at one of our multiple dining options. Partake in all Wyndham Grand Orlando Bonnet Creek has to offer with these Summer Specials: www.wyndhamgrandorlando.com/special-offers 14651 Chelonia Parkway, Orlando, FL 32821
Reservations: (407) 390-2300
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STAY AND PLAY priority. The staff is committed to creating a cleaner, safer and healthier environment that ensures hospital-grade protection for you and your family. Its HealthyStay#1 program includes rigorous staff training, new disinfecting protocols and more. Florida resident rates are available with online booking.
Doubletree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld
The resort is following guidelines and safety information provided by WHO, CDC as well as the State of Florida and Orange County Health Services. Through its Count on Us initiative, they have partnered with Ecolab and other suppliers to provide the hotel with the highest industry-standard cleaning and disinfecting supplies and developed cleaning protocols for all guestrooms and public spaces. With its Ultimate Staycation Package, guests at Wyndham Bonnet Creek will enjoy a waived resort fee, late check-out, reserved pool lounge chairs, welcome drinks, a family game and movie night, and a goodie bag with popcorn, candy, wine and sodas. Additional specials include an Everyday Heroes rate for first responders, healthcare and public service professionals as well as a Florida resident rate that offers 20% off the best available rates.
FantasyWorld Resort Located in Kissimmee, FantasyWorld Resort offers vacation villas at an affordable rate. Each two-bed, two-bath villa is equipped with a kitchen, washer and dryer, separate bedrooms, and wireless internet. Each villa comfortably sleeps six guests. The resort offers packages to Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld as well as scheduled transportation to each theme park. If you would prefer to enjoy resort activities, there are two heated pools, three hot tubs, a heated lazy river, two water slides, a kid’s splash pad, playground and mini golf. The health and safety of the resort’s owners, guests and team members is and always has been the top
Central Florida Lifestyle | July 2020
With a close proximity to the parks, DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld offers free shuttle service to SeaWorld, Aquatica and Universal Studios. The hotel is also just a 10-minute drive to Walt Disney World. If you’re looking for a relaxing staycation, make plans to enjoy the property’s two pools, on-site restaurants, fitness center, and, of course, a warm chocolate chip welcome cookie upon arrival. As a Hilton property, this hotel is dedicated to offering a cleaner stay from check in to check out with the creation of the Hilton CleanStay program. Rooms are vigorously cleaned between each stay with Lysol brand materials, focusing on high touch point areas. Guests are able to tailor their housekeeping experience by scheduling housekeeping services during their stay. Disinfecting stations with wipes and hand sanitizer are available throughout the property offering. Both public and team member areas are cleaned regularly with high-touch areas cleaned hourly. Contactless check-in is also available with distanced check-in options for guests without access to digital technology.
Meliã Orlando Celebration Meliã Orlando Celebration is located just a short distance from the many attractions that Orlando has to offer. This luxury hotel has suites equipped with a kitchen and private balcony. While you’re there, enjoy several restaurant options specializing in Spanish cuisine, as well as an outdoor swimming pool. You can book your vacation worryfree with up to 30% off and free cancellation. For a limited time, Meliã Orlando Celebration is offering up to two free kid’s meals daily with the purchase of
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STAY AND PLAY one adult entrée. Free transfer service is offered to all theme parks – SeaWorld, Disney World and Universal Studios. Meliã Hotels International has launched the Stay Safe with Meliã operations guide in compliance with the most demanding standards of health and hygiene while still offering exceptional guest service. Hightraffic areas are sanitized every two hours, floors are marked for social distancing, capacity reduction is being implemented in elevators, and hand sanitizer is available for both guests and staff members. Rooms are vacant for 72 hours between stays for additional sanitation. Staff members are required to wear masks, undergo daily temperature checks and are required to stay home if they’re experiencing symptoms.
Marriott Golf Academy Marriott Golf Academy at Marriott’s Grande Vista Resort is fully open with some additional safety procedures in place. All flagsticks must be left in the hole at all times, both on the course and in practice areas, and must not be handled for any reason. All bunker rakes, water coolers and ball washers have been removed from the facility. Heightened disinfecting procedures are in place for all shared items which include golf carts, range balls, rental clubs and range baskets. The resort sits on 160 acres and features many pools, The Spa at Grande Vista and a variety of recreational activities for both kids and adults. This includes a 9-hole, 2,300-yard, par-32 golf course.
Holiday Inn Resort – Daytona Beach Pack up the family for a quick getaway to Daytona Beach, where Florida residents can stay and save at the Holiday Inn Resort on South Atlantic Avenue. This oceanfront resort offers private balconies, outdoor pools, kid’s splash areas, a hot tub, full service restaurants as well as live entertainment. All facilities are currently open and adhere to state guidelines. In order to ensure guest and employee safety, shields have been installed at the front desk, hand sanitizer has been placed throughout the building and there are visible signs encouraging social distancing of 6 feet. Mask and gloves are a requirement for staff members and staff members undergo a daily temperature check. Guest areas are constantly disinfected and special levels of cleaning have been put in place for all guest rooms. Enjoy 20% off of the regular rate from Sunday through Thursday and 10% off of the regular rate on Friday and Saturday.
Central Florida Lifestyle | July 2020