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ORLANDO GUIDE

ORLANDO GUIDE

From thrilling theme parks and historic landmarks to world class shopping, Orlando’s unique attractions make The City Beautiful a universal favorite among travelers.

COURTESY SEAWORLD ORLANDO

SeaWorld Parks

Encounter animals and more at SeaWorld Parks. SeaWorld’s allinclusive day resort, Discovery Cove, affords interactive activity in a relaxing, tropical-themed haven. For an extra dose of serenity, be sure to reserve your own private cabana as you swim with dolphins, make friends with birds and learn more about the world around us. At SeaWorld, visit with Cookie Monster and friends at Sesame Street and ride thrilling coasters. Or visit Aquatica for a fun day of exciting water slides, including the KareKare Curl and Riptide Race, new in 2021. 7007 SeaWorld Drive, 888.800.5447. seaworld.com/orlando

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Universal Orlando

Excitement awaits at Universal Orlando Resort. Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure and Diagon Alley at Universal Studios continue to draw muggles and wizards alike. The recently added Bourne Stuntacular will leave you breathless as you follow Jason Bourne on an epic adventure across continents. Volcano Bay, the resort’s third theme park, offers visitors daring water slides and plenty of ways to cool off. CityWalk satisfies shopping, dining and entertainment needs. 1000 Universal Studios Plaza, 407.363.8000. universalorlando.com

Walt Disney World

The magic is alive and well at Walt Disney World. As the resort celebrates 50 enchanting years, visit Magic Kingdom to be transported to different lands full of adventure, fantasy and fun. At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, venture to Pandora for unforgettable thrills. At Galaxy’s Edge in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, walk in the footsteps of your favorite Star Wars characters. And at EPCOT, explore the globe, one country at a time, in World Showcase. Lake Buena Vista, 407.824.4321, www.disney.com

Kennedy Space Center

One of our nation’s most iconic attractions, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex tells the story of the U.S. space program. The complex is organized into zones, offering guests a way to explore the progress of the program chronologically. Visitors can stand nose-to-nose with the real Space Shuttle Atlantis, see the actual Saturn V moon rocket and witness an awe-inspiring rocket launch in person. kennedyspacecenter.com

Downtown Orlando

Beyond the fireworks and frenzy of the theme parks lies the heart and soul of Orlando. There’s much to discover. Visit the trendy cafes and boutiques along Thornton Park’s brick lined streets. Take in a show at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Paddle a swan boat around Lake Eola. Learn about Central Florida’s roots at the Orange County Regional History Center. Cheer on our MLS teams, the Orlando City Soccer Club and the Orlando Pride. downtownorlando.com

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International Drive

Ride on a 400-foot observation wheel and see a dinner show. Play golf in a climate-controlled bay and fly high on thrill rides. Soar over the area via helicopter and make your own chocolate bar. Experience these and other memorable adventures on International Drive, the heart of Orlando’s tourist corridor. The 11-mile stretch is home to hundreds of hotels, restaurants and attractions, including both SeaWorld Orlando and Universal Orlando Resort. Many of the venues in the area offer free parking. internationaldriveorlando.com

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The Mall at Millenia

With more than 130 upscale stores and dining options, this luxury mall features anchor stores Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s and Neiman Marcus. High-end specialty shops not to miss are Anthropologie, Banana Republic, Chanel, Christian Louboutin, Gucci, Guess, Lacoste, Louis Vuitton, Sephora, Tiffany & Co., Tory Burch and Urban Outfitters. 4200 Conroy Rd., Orlando, 407.363.3555. mallatmillenia.com

Bok Tower Gardens

This National Historic Landmark sits on peninsular Florida’s highest point and features Olmsted designed landscaped gardens crowned with a majestic bell tower that plays music by the hour. A lovely children’s garden with play area is also located on site. 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales, 863.676.1408. boktowergardens.org

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LEGOLAND

This 150-acre theme park offers more than 50 rides, shows and hands-on attractions geared for families with children ages 2-12. A new Legoland Resort is also located on site, complete with a water park. In 2022, the park welcomes the brand new Peppa Pig Theme Park to the mix. Check the resort’s website for a full calendar of special events throughout the year. 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven. legoland.com

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