Where Orlando January - February 2017 by Morris Media Network

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017 THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO GO®

Orlando

FIND THE BEST OF THE CITY where traveler.com

ORLANDO’S OUTDOORS

EXPLORE CENTRAL FLORIDA’S NATURAL SIDE

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS CELEBRATES MARDI GRAS ORLANDO’S MOST ROMANTIC RESTAURANTS DINOSAURS INVADE LEU GARDENS

Orlando

01-02.17

CONTENTS

SEE MORE OF ORLANDO AT WHERETRAVELER.COM

the plan

the guide

4 Editor’s Itinerary

14 XX

Welcome to Orlando! We hope you'll let Where be your guide for a fun-filled trip this winter.

MUSEUMS & ATTRACTIONS

A complete guide of theme parks, attractions and museums, like the Morse and the Orlando Science Center.

>>TRIP PLANNER

Spend a sunny afternoon at Leu Gardens for blooming flowers and frightening dinosaurs along Lake Rowena.

XX 20

GOLF

Where to play golf in Orlando, plus Rosen Shingle Creek partners with the Arnold Palmer Design Company.

6 Hot Dates Find the best events while you're in town from big-name concerts like Billy Joel to a dream weekend for Harry Potter fans.

ENTERTAINMENT

Reviews of bars, clubs, live music and a brand new bowling venue at Pointe Orlando.

29 Our staff offers three dynamic itineraries for the cultured, the partier and the beach bum.

source of the Florida Everglades and can be explored via kayak or airboat. ©PAUL MARCELLINI

where now 08 Exhilarating Ecotours Take these nine adventures to discover some of Central Florida's hidden gems, from manatee sightings to ziplining through the trees. BY NANCY DEVAULT

10 Dinner Date Delights CONNECT WITH US

Five of Orlando's most romantic restaurants await you this Valentine's Day. BY JUSTIN BRAUN

12 Mardi Gras Madness READ US ON MAGZTER

Universal Studios hosts its biggest Mardi Gras party yet with 50 days of parades, Cajun cuisine, music and revelry. BY LAURA ANDERS LEE

2 W H E R E O R L A N D O I J A N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 2017

Guidance for finding your way around town, plus information on the Orlando International Airport. Walt Disney Amphitheatre

Visitor Center

Jackson

Wall

MAPS

Osceola Av

Shingle Creek in Central Florida is the

Lake Av

COVER

NAVIGATE

Explore Orlando from north to south Mariposa and A to Z Magnolia Av

12/9/16 3:20 PM

Court Av

DINOSAURS INVADE LEU GARDENS

E~ORLWM_170100_Cover.indd 1

Court Av

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS CELEBRATES MARDI GRAS ORLANDO’S MOST ROMANTIC RESTAURANTS

EXPLORE CENTRAL FLORIDA’S NATURAL SIDE

Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts

Anderson

page 44

Lake Av

ORLANDO’S OUTDOORS

Find the top places to eat from Winter Park down to the Mall at Millenia and Celebration.

Liberity Av

where traveler.com

Rosalind Av

FIND THE BEST OF THE CITY

Delaney Av

Orlando

DINING

1/8 mi 250 m

Anderson Ct

11A

408

FROM LEFT: COURTESY UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT; COURTESY VISIT FLORIDA/SCOTT AUDETTE

Find Orlando's top shopping stops, plus details on the new Town Center at Disney Springs.

48 Orlando Your Way

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017 THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO GO®

SHOPPING

EDITOR’S ITINERARY

YOUR TRAVELING COMPANION SINCE 1936®

LAURA ANDERS LEE

ORLANDO

N E W S T O T R AV E L B Y

The Essential Orlando No matter where you're from, chances are you're loving our weather right now. Winter in Orlando is the best time of year, with sun-filled days inviting you outdoors to explore our backyard (p. 8). February may be a short month, but it's packed with events like Mardi Gras at Universal Studios (p. 12), and Valentine's Day, the perfect excuse for dining at one of our most romantic restaurants (p. 10). While the rest of the country is gray and gloomy, we welcome an early spring at Leu Gardens. Check out my itinerary below for a quick visit. 90 MINUTES IN

Harry P. Leu Gardens

CENTRAL FLORIDA GROUP PUBLISHER

Scott McElhaney

WHERE GROUP PUBLISHER Mark EDITOR Laura Anders Lee

Reid

ADVERTISING & CIRCULATION SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER Brian Reher ACCOUNT MANAGER Tim Bird MARKETING & CIRCULATION MANAGER Debra Flippo ADVERTISING SERVICES Abigail Johnson EDITORIAL & DESIGN REGIONAL EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Leigh Harrington ART DIRECTOR Veronica Montesdeoca CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Justin Braun CONTRIBUTING WRITER Nancy DeVault

MORRIS VISITOR PUBLICATIONS MVP | EXECUTIVE PRESIDENT Donna W. Kessler CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER Reab Berry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Dennis Kelly VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS Angela VICE PRESIDENT INTERNAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Karen Rodriguez REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES

E. Allen

Kristen Standish

GENERAL MANAGER, WHERE MAPS

Christopher Huber

DIRECTOR OF CIRCULATION Scott Ferguson NATIONAL MARKETING MANAGER Melissa Blanco MVP | CREATIVE CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER Haines Wilkerson SENIOR EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Margaret Martin DESIGN DIRECTOR Jane Frey DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY Isaac Arjonilla CREATIVE COORDINATOR Beverly Mandelblatt

215 varietals. Visitors can also admire a bamboo forest, a tropical stream garden, native citrus plants and an herb garden. In bloom right now are heliconia, azaleas, orchid trees, pink ball trees, sweet osmanthus, powderpuff, trumpet trees and citrus, not to mention the astonishing 2,000 camellia plants. Starting Jan. 13, dinosaurs will invade the gardens. Creator Guy Darrough, an accomplished fossil expert and collector, has crafted 13 amazingly realistic and sci-

entific replicas ranging from 14 inches to a jaw-dropping 33 feet. Children and paleontologists-in-training will especially love the self-guided DinoHunt, where they’ll follow clues for discovering each dinosaur, like the Synatarsus, Heterodontosaurus or the Dimetrodon. If you happen to be in town Jan. 28, Leu Gardens is hosting "Dino Day," where families can explore the world of dinosaurs with hands-on activities, arts 'n' crafts, a dino dig and scavenger hunt.

Get going! Explore the city at wheretraveler.com.

MVP | NATIONAL SALES VICE PRESIDENT, NATIONAL SALES Rick Mollineaux 202.463.4550 VICE PRESIDENT, NATIONAL MARKETING

Adeline Tafuri Jurecka

DIRECTOR OF PARTNERSHIPS & NATIONAL DIGITAL SALES Bridget Duffie 706.821.6663 NATIONAL SALES COORDINATOR David Gately MVP | PRODUCTION PUBLICATION SERVICES DIRECTOR Kris Miller PUBLICATION SERVICES MANAGER Cher Wheeler DIGITAL IMAGING Erik Lewis MVP | MANUFACTURING & TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR OF MANUFACTURING Donald Horton TECHNICAL OPERATIONS MANAGER

Tony Thorne-Booth

E-mails for all of the above except contributors: firstname.lastname@morris.com

MVP | ORLANDO

801 N. Magnolia Ave., Suite 201 407-650-2219, 407-852-4060 (fax) MORRIS COMMUNICATIONS CHAIRMAN William S. Morris III PRESIDENT & CEO William S. Morris

in the world

Where is an international network of magazines first published in 1936 and distributed in over 4,000 leading hotels in more than 50 places around the world. Look for us when you visit any of the following cities, or plan ahead for your next trip by visiting us online at wheretraveler.com. UNITED STATES Alaska, Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charleston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Indianapolis, Jacksonville/ St. Augustine/Amelia Island, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Maui, Miami, Minneapolis/St. Paul, New Orleans, New York, Northern Virginia, Oahu, Orange County (CA), Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix/Scottsdale, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, St. Louis, Tampa, Tucson, Washington, D.C. ASIA Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore AUSTRALIA Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney CANADA Calgary, Canadian Rockies, Edmonton, Halifax, Muskoka/Parry Sound, Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver, Victoria, Whistler, Winnipeg EUROPE Berlin, Budapest, Istanbul, London, Madrid, Milan, Moscow, Paris, Rome, St. Petersburg

4 W H E R E O R L A N D O I J A N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 2017

Where® magazine is produced by Morris Visitor Publications (MVP), a division of Morris Communications Co., LLC. 725 Broad St., Augusta, GA 30901, morrismedianetwork.com. Where magazine and the where® logo are registered trademarks of Morris Visitor Publications. Where makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part strictly prohibited. MVP is a proud sponsor of Les Clefs d’Or USA

PHOTOS COURTESY HARRY P. LEU GARDENS

If you have a little extra time on your trip, Leu Gardens is a peaceful and picturesque escape from the hustle of the tourism hub. Orlando’s 50-acre botanical garden sits on the shores of Lake Rowena near downtown and Winter Park and features 200-year-old live oak trees, 50 varieties of azaleas and one of the country’s largest collections of camellias. Also on site are the historic Leu House, open daily for tours, and Mary Jane Leu's acclaimed rose garden with

MORE TO EAT, DRINK, SEE AND DO THAN ANYWHERE ELSE ON THE GULF BEACHES.

www.johnspassvillage.net

WHERE CALENDAR JAN/FEB 2017

For more information: wheretraveler.com

Search the full Orlando calendar at wheretraveler.com

TOP SPOTS

HOT

JAN. 27 BILLY JOEL Sing along to the six-time Grammy Award winner performing his unrivaled catalog of hit songs. Amway Center, 400 W. Church St., amwaycenter.com

DATES

Universal

JAN. 27-29:

CELEBRATION OF HARRY POTTER

Wizards, witches and muggles rejoice during this annual celebration of all things magic! This weekend fantasy for Potterheads features Q&A sessions with actors from the film, interactive and unique exhibits along with special panels and demonstrations. Don your favorite costume and don't forget your wand. Park admission required. Universal Studios and Universal Islands of Adventure, 6000 Universal Blvd., www.universalorlando.com t

Monster Truck Jam

caption here

Daytona 500

There’s a lot more going on this month. Visit us online: wheretraveler.com

Great Things Not to Be Missed

best 88 players in a rivalry to determine the best of the best. 1 Citrus Bowl Place, www.nfl.com/probowl

1 MONSTER TRUCK JAM > JAN. 21 Put the pedal to the metal during the most adrenaline-charged motorsports experience in Orlando featuring more than 12 drivers in custom-designed machines built for short, high-powered bursts of speed up to 100 miles per hour. Camping World Stadium, 1 Citrus Bowl Place, www.monsterjam.com

3 59TH ANNUAL DAYTONA 500 > FEB. 26 Witness the best stock car drivers in the world compete in NASCAR's richest and most prestigious race. Daytona International Speedway, 1801 W. International Speedway Blvd., Daytona Beach, www. daytonainternationalspeedway.com

2 2017 PRO BOWL > JAN. 29 The NFL celebrates its brightest stars with a week of festivities throughout Orlando culminating with the 2017 Pro Bowl game at Camping World Stadium televised live at 8 pm on ESPN. Featuring a return to the traditional AFC vs. NFC game format following three years using a revised, "unconferenced" format, the game pits NFL's

4 MORSE MUSEUM'S 75TH ANNIVERSARY > FEBRUARY Celebrate 75 years of the world’s most comprehensive collection of the works of Louis Comfort Tiffany with free admission all month long and a public celebration Feb. 17 with champagne and live music. Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, 445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, www.morsemuseum.org

6 W H E R E O R L A N D O I J A N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 2017

FEB. 11 ANDREA BOCELLI The legendary tenor returns to the U.S. with his most beloved arias, crossover hits, love songs and new music off his latest album, “Cinema." Amway Center, 400 W. Church St., amwaycenter.com FEB. 17-MARCH 5 ANNUAL BACH FESTIVAL Delight in world-class choir orchestral performances featuring the works of J.S. Bach and other great composers by the Bach Festival Choir and Orchestra. Rollins College, 1000 Holt Ave., Winter Park, bachfestivalflorida.org FEB. 18-19 HARRY POTTER AND THE SCORCERER'S STONE IN CONCERT Watch the film on a 40-foot screen while the live symphony orchestra performs every note. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., harrypotterinconcert. com

FROM TOP: COURTESY UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT; COURTESY MONSTER JAM; COURTESY VISIT FLORIDA/WILL SERNE

JAN. 28 FLORIDA GEORGIA LINE The awardwinning country group extends its "Dig Your Roots Tour." Amway Center, 400 W. Church St., amwaycenter.com

WIN A TRIP TO NYC

Escape for 2 nights/3 days to the city that never sleeps! Win airfare for two, round-trip airport transfer, 2-night stay at the Muse Hotel, exclusive dining experiences, sightseeing tours, shopping experiences and more. Also receive two round-trip tickets on Acela Express Business Class service to travel to/from New York City and any other Amtrak Northeast Corridor station. Enter daily through February 28 at wheretraveler.com/contest

where now Orlando

Your guide to exploring the best of Central Florida

COOL WEATHER FUN

Nature’s Calling

Central Florida is home to natural springs, more than 1,000 lakes and even Shingle Creek—the source of the Florida Everglades. Come explore Orlando’s natural side for the ultimate adventure. BY NANCY DEVAULT

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EXHILARATING ECO-TOURS

You’ve already discovered Orlando’s thrills at man-made theme parks, but this region of the Sunshine State also shines with unparalleled nature-based adventures. Experience “true Florida” with these environmentally oriented eco-attractions, from bike rides and ziplines to airboats and airplanes.

SUNRISE SAFARI This two-hour golf cart tour, led by a certified Florida master naturalist, explores the 500 preserved acres surrounding Grande Lakes Orlando Resort. Wild daybreak sightings may include alligators, birds, bobcats, deer, foxes, otters and raccoons roaming near Shingle Creek, the northernmost headwaters of the Florida Everglades. You’ll also harvest morning memories at Whisper Creek Farm visiting a chicken coop and 7,000-square-foot garden which yields the resort’s fresh ingredients. Price: $60, grandelakes.com

OPPOSITE PAGE: ©TOBIASFREI/ISTOCK; THIS PAGE FROM LEFT: COURTESY ELITE ROAD BIKE RENTALS; COURTESY FLORIDA TODAY; COURTESY DEP

Apopka Loop Trail

SCENIC BIKE HIKE Elite Road Bike Rentals paves the way to leisure two-wheeled exploration with 10 to 40 mile rides on hybrid bikes. On the partially-shaded West Orange Trail tour, pedal past preserved orange groves, a butterfly garden and a notable train depot. Take a pit stop on Plant Street in historic Winter Garden to see the clock tower, tile-lined fountain and quaint boutiques. On the Cady Way tour through north Orlando and Winter Park, discover nature’s masterpieces in the Loch Haven Park art district with a nod to “The Mayor,” a 350-year-plus sprawling oak draped with Spanish moss by Lake Formosa. Refuel with a picnic in Central Park on Park Avenue. On the Apopka Loop Trail, brave the dirt, lakeside path for breathtaking landscape views and sightings of alligators, snakes, turtles, raccoon, deer and many bird species. Price: $100, eliteroadbikerentals.com

CATERED CAMPING Take sea kayaks or a small powered boat across Lake Tohopekaliga to Makinson Island for primitive catered camping. The Paddling Center at Shingle Creek in Kissimmee prepares all overnight basic needs such as tents, sleeping bags and firewood, along with activities including tours and on-site games like corn hole and whiffle ball. Prefer a day-only tour option? Navigate the seven miles of paddle-friendly trails of Shingle Creek via canoe, kayak or stand-up paddle board. Price: $13-$110; paddlingcenter.com

SPRING INTO STANCE Paddle Board Orlando offers a variety of natural spring treks led by stand up paddle board enthusiasts. Coast along Crystal River toward Three Sisters Spring beside mellow manatees. These giant sea cows can reach up to 13 feet, about the length of your board and 3,000 pounds. Or dive into a Silver Springs excursion to find catfish, turtles and wild monkeys, rumored to have been released in 1938 by a tour boat operator and unrelated to the area filming of “Tarzan” in 1939. Paddle Board Orlando also ventures on the Winter Park Chain of Lakes, Halifax River near New Smyrna Beach and Wekiva River. Price: $35$65, paddleboardorlando.com

BIOLUMINESCENT NIGHTS During Florida’s cool months, bioluminescent comb jellyfish (which do not sting), congregate in the Indian River La-

Indian River

For more information wheretraveler.com

Wekiwa Springs

goon. Rent a kayak for a two-hour bioluminescent eco-tour starting at the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, about an hour drive from Orlando, to see these and other peculiar creatures glow in the water. Price: $38, adayawaykayaktours.com JUST PLANE FUN Take eco-tourism to new heights with the Jones Brother’s Fly Out and Paddle In tour departing from Lake Dora in Tavares. Board a two or four seater sea plane for a 15 to 20-minute flight offering top-notch views of the Harris Chain of Lakes and a rolling landscape. Steady for a splash-and-dash landing on Lake Eustis where kayaks await. Led by an Adventure Outdoor Paddle guide, spend one hour drifting through the pristine Dora Canal. Price: $139, jonesairandsea.com

PARK IT Wekiwa Springs State Park in Apopka is one of the best destinations for eco-tourism activities, including fishing, geocaching, hiking, equestrian trails, wildlife viewing and camping. The grassy hillside of Wekiwa Springs offers a serene atmosphere for sunbathers to picnic on the shoreline of its swimming hole. Canoe or kayak through the swamp paths to Wekiva River to find Wekiva Island,

a party paradise with boardwalk cabanas, a pub and sand volleyball courts. Price: $6 entry per vehicle; canoe/kayak: $19.15 and up, floridastateparks.org SUNSET SWAMP As the sunset illuminates the sky with bright orange hues over Lake Tohopekaliga, soar over green marsh on a Boggy Creek Airboat tour at 45 mph on a U.S. Coast Guard-approved airboat. Perched high on the propeller water vessel, your swamp captain will help you spot exotic birds, turtles and plenty of alligators wandering in their natural Everglades habitat. Price: $52.95 adult; $48.95 child; free for 2 and under, bcairboats.com

MOONLIGHT ZIPLINING Because many animals are most active at night, Forever Florida in St. Cloud invites thrill-seekers to glide from tower to tower on seven ziplines and cross three swaying sky bridges through the dark mystique of the pines. You’ll tour 4,700 acres of beautiful conservation, which is home to native wildlife including black bears, white-tailed deer and the endangered Florida panther. Price: $89.99, foreverflorida.com

WINING+DINING

Dinner Date Delights

Love is in the air this Valentine’s Day, but romance can happen any time of year thanks to the intimate surroundings and seductive dishes at some of Central Florida’s best restaurants. Find the dinner date destination of your dreams, no matter what you’re celebrating. JUSTIN BRAUN

California Grill

10 W H E R E O R L A N D O I J A N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 2017

WHERE NOW Orlando

COUNTER-CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: COURTESY WALT DISNEY WORLD (2); COURTESY WALDORF ASTORIA ORLANDO (2); COURTESY FOUR SEASONS ORLANDO

CALIFORNIA GRILL Dine on fresh seafood, sushi and steaks while taking in sweeping views of the Seven Seas Lagoon through floor-to-ceiling windows on the 15th floor of Disney’s Contemporary Hotel. Every night around 9 pm, the lights dim just in time for the blasts of color illuminating the sky over Cinderella’s Castle, providing a magical ending to any special occasion. The restaurant is open to nonhotel guests, but reservations are recommended. 4600 N. World Drive, 407.939.3463, www.disneyworld.com

Couples Retreats Pamper yourself and your partner.

Waldorf Astoria

Waldorf Astoria Bonnet Creek Indulge in side-by-side honey-butter massages and his-and-hers pedicures, steam rooms and Jacuzzi. Free valet. 14200 Bonnet Creek Resort Lane, 407.597.5360, www. waldorfastoriaorlando.com

Bull and Bear

Capa

CAPA The romantic setting of Four Seasons Orlando’s rooftop restaurant is perfect for date night. Breathtaking views on this Spanish steakhouse’s sprawling 17th floor outdoor terraces pair perfectly with freshly shucked oysters, Florida seafood and expertly grilled cuts. Reserve a table on the outdoor-patio for amazing views of Disney’s nightly fireworks. 10100 Dream Tree Blvd., 407.313.7777, www. fourseasonsorlando.com MONSIEUR PAUL Travel to the city of love, light and romance at Monsieur Paul, an authentic French bistro tucked away inside Epcot’s World Showcase. This intimate second-floor retreat is distinguished by an ornate dining room

accented with hand-painted ceilings and velvet, purple banquettes. Book two spots at the IllumiNations Sparkling Dessert Party for stellar sweets and sights paired with sparkling wine during the nightly fireworks spectacular. Park admission required. 200 Epcot Center Drive, 407.939.5277, www. disneyworld.com

side booths and share the Chateaubriand or Tomahawk for two, is renowned for tableside preparation, the highest levels of personalized service and a creative menu featuring reimagined steakhouse classics and trend-setting fare. 14200 Bonnet Creek Resort Lane, 407.597.5500, www. waldorfastoriaorlando.com

BULL AND BEAR The dark and sultry dining room at the Waldorf Astoria Orlando, where couples can snuggle into comfy

THE BOATHOUSE Cruise through Disney’s picturesque waterways aboard a 40-foot Italian water taxi for a private wine tasting poured by a captain and crew. The Saturday night one-hour cruise departs from Disney’s Boathouse where steaks, fresh seafood, a raw bar and live music are ready to delight a sea-loving crowd. 1486 Buena Vista Drive, 407.939.6244, www. theboathouseorlando.com

Blue Harmony Sink into serenity at the Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek’s luxurious couple’s suite with side-by-side soaking tubs and massage tables or in the outdoor cabana adjacent to the outdoor spa garden and secluded hot tub. 9560 Via Encinas, 407.390.2300, www.wyndhambonnetcreek.com Mandara Spa Find tranquility at the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel or the Swan and Dolphin where guests of the Balinese-inspired spa enjoy a co-ed lounge and whirlpool, exotic treatment rooms and access to the outdoor pool. www.mandaraspa.com The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Orlando Delight in a couple’s massage in a beautiful candlelit couples suite complete with custom aromatherapy oil, two glasses of rosé and Valentine truffles. 10100 Dream Tree Blvd., 407.313.7777, www. fourseasons.com/orlando B Resort and Spa Enjoy the B Together spa journey for two featuring a couples massage, manicure and pedicure plus access to the fitness center and zeroentry pool. Free valet. 1905 Hotel Plaza Blvd., www.bhotelsandresorts.com

Monsieur Paul

WHERE NOW Orlando

EVENTS

Let the Good Times Roll

Step aside New Orleans and Mobile, Alabama, Orlando is celebrating Mardi Gras in a major way. Universal Studios hosts a 50-day party that extends well beyond Fat Tuesday. Laissez les bon temps rouler!

King Cake 12 W H E R E C I T Y N A M E I M O N T H Y E A R

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THE PARADE The main event of the colorful annual carnival you don’t want to miss is the parade. Elaborate floats companied by hundreds of beadthrowers, towering stilt-walkers and sequined-costumed dancers flood the streets each night. Throughout the day, visitors can also witness and even participate in a second-line parade, a New Orleans tradition where a main line of brass instruments is followed by the crowd.

Mardi Gras Madness French settlers along the Gulf Coast started Mardi Gras in the 1700s, starting in Mobile in 1703 and spreading its way to cities like New Orleans, Biloxi, Pensacola and even down to Key West. Mardi Gras translates to Fat Tuesday, when Catholics enjoyed a feast of overindulgences the last day before Lent. That tradition expanded to elaborate parades and masked balls, always with plenty of beads, food and drink. This year, Universal Orlando is honoring the holiday with its biggest party yet. It all goes down from Feb. 4 to March 25 when Universal Studios transforms into a giant street party complete with nightly parades led by amazing performers with outrageous floats custom-built for Universal’s guests. BY LAURA ANDERS LEE AND JUSTIN BRAUN

jambalaya, crispy hushpuppies, heavenly beignets and king cake. At CityWalk, New Orleans Celebrity Chef Emeril Lagasse has two outposts, Emeril’s Orlando and Emeril’s Tchoup Chop.

“We have the beautiful floats, but the parade’s performers are the heart beat,” says Jason Horne, show director for Universal’s Mardi Gras. “Until we get them throwing the beads and dancing and interacting with guests, that’s when Mardi Gras really begins.”

THE STREET PARTY After dinner, the party continues at Universal CityWalk. Of the unique party zones that make up Orlando’s version of Times Square, Pat O’Brien’s is the place to be for Mardi Gras. Straight out of Bourbon Street, this funhouse packed with numerous bars features dueling pianos and live music in its bricked-courtyard with flaming fountain that’s a replica of the New Orleans establishment. Be sure to order the famous hurricane, made with generous amounts of rum, fruit juice and grenadine.

THE FOOD Good times and great food are also on the menu where New Orleans-style cuisine treats your tastebuds to a party. The park’s French Quarter district serves succulent Cajun-spiced seafood, red beans and rice, gumbo, crawfish,

THE MUSIC It wouldn’t be Mardi Gras without music. That’s why for 12 select nights during the festival, one of today’s top recording artists will headline the main stage. Concerts and events are included with park admission.

PHOTOS COURTESY UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT

For more information wheretraveler.com

A parade through Universal

the guide Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art

Orlando Science Center

Celebrating its 75th anniversary this season, the museum is offering free admission for the entire month of February. The Morse features the world’s most-comprehensive collection by Louis Comfort Tiffany, including glass windows and lamps, blown glass, pottery, jewelry and paintings. Rollins College alumnus, Hugh McKean, had been a student of Tiffany at his New York estate, Laurelton Hall, in 1930. After a fire at the estate, McKean and his wife, Jeannette, salvaged much of the work and opened a museum in Winter Park. Architectural elements from Laurelton Hall and the chapel from the World’s Fair in Chicago are always on view as well as special exhibits for the anniversary. www.morsemuseum.org

This interactive museum teaches while it entertains, featuring the all-new Kids Town exhibit chock full of dynamic activities that encourage children to invent, create, build and test their curiosity. Plus, there are indoor play areas, live alligators, a dinosaur exhibit and a CineDome with films and laser-light shows. www.osc.org

Theme Parks

LEGOLAND FLORIDA— Built especially for kids, this

DISCOVERY COVE— Swim with dolphins, wade with

rays, snorkel among thousands of exotic fish and hand-feed tropical birds in a free-flight aviary. Discovery Cove’s full-day, all-inclusive adventures include all meals, drinks and gear along with admission to SeaWorld or Busch Gardens. www. discoverycove.com. 6000 Discovery Cove Way, 888.800.5447. DISNEY’S ANIMAL KINGDOM— From live animals to

dinosaurs and animal characters, your imagination runs wild in this beautifully designed park. Hop aboard a safari in Africa for close animal encounters then head to Asia’s Mount Everest coaster. The petting zoo, DinoLand U.S.A. and the themed playground will win over the kids, along with “The Lion King” live show. www.disneyworld.disney. go.com. Walt Disney World, 2901 Osceola Parkway 407.824.4321. DISNEY’S HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS— This theme

park dives into Hollywood with live stage shows and movie-themed rides. Must-stops are Tower of Terror, Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster, Toy Story Mania and the Disney Jr. and “Frozen” live shows. Don’t miss the new Star Wars areas and the new “Star Wars: 14 W H E R E O R L A N D O I J A N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 2017

A Galactic Spectacular” fireworks show. www. disneyworld.com. 351 S. Studio Drive, Lake Buena Vista, 407.824.4321. EPCOT— Distinguished by its glistening geosphere,

Epcot offers visitors a look into the world’s technology. Don’t miss Mission: Space, Soarin,’ Test Track, Frozen Ever After and the aquarium. World Showcase depicts 11 countries around a scenic lake so guests can dine, drink, shop and be entertained from a global perspective. www.disneyworld.com. 200 Epcot Center Drive 407.824.4321. ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE, UNIVERSAL ORLANDO—

Everyone has fun with six uniquely themed islands: Seuss Landing, The Lost Continent, Jurassic Park, Toon Lagoon, Marvel Super Hero Island and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Each highlights adventure, storytelling and the most technologically advanced rides, attractions and shows. Best bets are The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, King Kong and Jurassic Park, along with Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey at Hogsmeade. The Hogwarts Express connects Hogsmeade with Diagon Alley at Universal Studios. Two-day park pass required. www.universalorlando.com. 1000 Universal Studios Plaza, 407.363.8000.

150-acre theme park offers more than 50 rides, shows and attractions plus a water park. The Legoland Hotel is located just steps from the entrance to the theme park. www.legoland.com. 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven, 877.350.5346. MAGIC KINGDOM, WALT DISNEY WORLD— Cinder-

ella Castle serves as the center of Mickey’s magical wonderland. Meet your favorite characters and enjoy the rides, from classics like It’s a Small World and Space Mountain to new experiences like Peter Pan, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and Under the Sea. Parades provide lively entertainment, with the Wishes fireworks as the grand finale. www.disneyworld.com. 407.824.4321. SEAWORLD— Immerse yourself in the sea, from

up-close animal encounters to awe-inspiring performances to thrilling rides. Come face-to-face with Shamu, play at Happy Harbor, watch a dolphin show, feed a sea lion, ride the roller coasters Mako, Manta and Kraken, and shop and dine at the Waterfront. www.seaworldorlando.com. 7007 SeaWorld Drive, 888.800.5447.

FROM LEFT: COURTESY MORSE MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART; COURTESY ORLANDO SCIENCE CENTER

Museums+Attractions Jan/Feb

M U S E U M S + AT T R A C T I O N S

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS, UNIVERSAL ORLANDO— Be a part of the Hollywood experience with thrilling rollercoasters, simulators and 3-D shows. Don’t miss the Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Diagon Alley, featuring the Escape to Gringotts ride and Hogwarts Express. Other must-sees are Men in Black, Revenge of the Mummy and the Simpsons Ride. Kids will love the Fievel and Curious George playgrounds. www.universalorlando.com. 6000 Universal Blvd., 407.363.8000.

Parks & Gardens BLUE SPRING STATE PARK— Covering more than

2,600 acres, this park is popular for fishing, diving and swimming in the summer months. In the winter, the springs are a refuge for a growing population of West Indian manatees. The water is closed during manatee season, mid-November through March 15, however, visitors are invited to observe the amazing creatures. www.floridastateparks. org/bluespring/. 2100 W. French Ave., Orange City, 386.775.3663. DISNEY WILDERNESS PRESERVE— Home to hiking

trails, hundreds of wildlife species and bordered by one of the last remaining undeveloped lakes in Central Florida. 2700 Scrub Jay Trail, Kissimmee, 407.935.0002. FOREVER FLORIDA— This working cattle ranch

contains nearly 5,000 acres with 10 miles of hiking trails and eco-adventures. Spot alligators, the Florida panther, black bears and white-tail deer. www. foreverflorida.com. 4755 N. Kenansville Road, St. Cloud, 407.957.9794. HARRY P. LEU GARDENS—This 50-acre botanical

garden is a maze bursting with color and unusual greenery. Take a guided tour of the Southernstyled grounds, chill at a concert or just stroll through the giant bamboo, manicured lawns and the world’s largest collection of camellias. www. leugardens.org. 1920 N. Forest Ave., 407.246.2620. KELLY PARK— Rent a tube and float down a river

fed by Rock Springs. The 3/4-mile ride through refreshing 68-degree crystalline water takes 25 minutes. $5 per vehicle. www.orangecountyfl.net. 400 E. Kelly Park Road, 407.407.1902. LAKE EOLA PARK— Popular downtown public park

for strolling and feeding ducks. A playground and swan-boat rentals are on site. Trendy restaurants, bars and shopping are steps away. www.cityoforlando.net. 195 N. Rosalind Ave., 407.246.4485. LAKE LOUISA STATE PARK— Try geo-caching

around the park in a virtual treasure hunt. Visitors love swimming, biking, kayaking and canoeing. $5 per vehicle. www.floridastateparks.org/park/lakelouisa. 7305 US Highway 27, 352.394.3969. LOCH HAVEN PARK— Nestled between three lakes,

this picturesque park serves as Orlando’s premier cultural center housing several museums and theaters. www.cityoforlando.net. 777 E. Princeton St. MEAD BOTANICAL GARDEN— This idyllic 55-acre

garden is an urban oasis with nature trails, boardwalks, wetlands, camellia groves and picnic pavilions. www.meadgarden.org. 1300 S. Denning Drive, Winter Park, 407.262.2049. TIBET-BUTLER PRESERVE— See tortoises, indigo

snakes, red-bellied woodpeckers, kingfishers and even a bald eagle with four miles of trails and elevated boardwalks. Free admission. www. floridaconservation.org. 8777 State Road 535, 407.876.6696.

WEKIWA SPRINGS STATE PARK— Swim or snorkel in

the crystal-clear freshwater spring. Also enjoy fishing, kayaking, canoeing or horseback riding. $6 per vehicle. www.floridastateparks.org/wekiwasprings. 1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka, 407.884.2008.

Museums/Galleries ALBIN POLASEK MUSEUM AND SCULPTURE GARDENS— Listed on the National Register for Historic

Places and a member of the National Trust’s historic Artists’ Homes and Studios, the museum exhibits a permanent collection plus 3 acres of lakefront sculpture gardens. Tu-Sa 10 am-4 pm, Su 1-4 pm. www.polasek.org. 633 Osceola Ave., Winter Park, 407.647.6294. CITYARTS FACTORY— Located in the Downtown

Arts District, CityArts Factory is the area’s largest collective of art galleries, showcasing local and international works of art, rotated monthly. Free admission Tu-Sa. Be sure to check out Third Thursdays. www.cityartsfactory.com. 29 S. Orange Ave., 407.648.7060. CORNELL FINE ARTS MUSEUM AT ROLLINS COLLEGE— Featuring a prestigious collection of

European and American paintings, sculpture and decorative arts, alongside student and visiting artist exhibitions on the beautiful lakefront campus of Rollins College. Free admission. www.rollins.edu/ cfam. 1000 Holt Ave., Winter Park, 407.646.2526. JAI GALLERY— Featuring a mix of contemporary art

including sculptures, paintings, photography and mixed media. www.jaigallery.net. 101 S. Garland Ave., 321.216.1646. MAITLAND ART CENTER— Gorgeous stone build-

ings with wrought-iron gates and an adjacent garden showcase changing exhibits. Built in 1937 as a quiet colony for artists to exercise creativity and collaboration, the Maitland Art Center is one of the Southeast’s only remaining examples of fantasy architecture and has recently been added to the list of National Historic Landmarks. www. maitlandartcenter.org. 231 W. Packwood Ave., Maitland, 407.539.2181. MENNELLO MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART— This

beautiful lakefront facility is home to sculpture gardens and a permanent collection of paintings by American Primitive artist Earl Cunningham, along with other traditional and contemporary artists. Closed M. www.mennellomuseum.org. 900 E. Princeton St., Loch Haven Cultural Park, 407.246.4278. ORANGE COUNTY REGIONAL HISTORY CENTER—

Central Florida’s storyteller since 1942. Journey through the region’s fascinating transition from Indian settlement to small citrus and cattle town to today’s worldwide destination. www.thehistorycenter.org. 65 E. Central Blvd., 407.836.8500. ORLANDO MUSEUM OF ART— With permanent

collections of American art, African art and works of the ancient Americas, the museum also hosts prominent traveling exhibitions. www.omart. org. Loch Haven Cultural Park, 2416 N. Mills Ave., 407.896.4231. WINTER PARK HISTORICAL MUSEUM— If you’re

fascinated by the charming enclave of Winter Park, visit this museum where changing exhibits feature photographs, artifacts and objects that explore the city’s history. Free. Open Tu-F from 10 am to 4 pm. www.wphistory.org. 200 W. New England Ave., Winter Park, 407.647.2330.

ZORA NEALE HURSTON NATIONAL MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS— Delve into African-American

heritage through works of art named for one of the pre-eminent writers of 20th-century literature. Call for hours. Closed Su. www.zoranealehurstonmuseum.com. 227 E. Kennedy Blvd., Eatonville, 407.647.3307.

Attractions BUENA VISTA WATERSPORTS AND PARADISE COVE— Rent jet skis or try waterskiing, tubing

or wakeboarding on scenic Lake Bryan. www. bvwatersports.com. 13245 Lake Bryan Drive, 407.239.6939. CENTRAL FLORIDA ZOO & BOTANICAL GARDENS—

See more than 400 animals, admire an impressive collection of big cats or take a ride through the lush surroundings on the train. www.centralfloridazoo.org. 3755 N. US Highway 17-92, Sanford, 407.323.4450. CHOCOLATE KINGDOM—Take an interactive fac-

tory tour to learn how chocolate transforms from the bean into the creamy, dreamy chocolate bar. The tour guide joins forces with a prince and a dragon sidekick for a journey through a cacao tree greenhouse, a chocolate museum, a mystical river of chocolate and a micro-batch, bean-to-thebar factory utilizing old-world machinery. www. chocolatekingdom.com. 2858 Florida Plaza Blvd., Kissimmee, 407.705.3475. THE COCA-COLA ORLANDO EYE— Hop aboard a

400-foot-tall ferris wheel where you’ll ride inside a fully enclosed, air-conditioned glass capsule for stunning views of the attractions, the downtown skyline, and on clear days, all the way to the Kennedy Space Center. The ride is especially nice at sunset or during the nightly theme-park fireworks. www.officialorlandoeye.com. 8445 International Drive, 866.228.6438. CRAYOLA EXPERIENCE— Discover the magic of

color with 25 hands-on attractions. Kids can name and wrap their very own crayon, see how crayons are made and watch as their digital art comes to life on a huge, interactive wall. They can climb the two-story, color playground and pick their own set of crayons and markers from 99 of Crayola’s most popular colors. www.crayolaexperience.com/orlando. The Florida Mall, 8001 S. Orange Blossom Trail, 407.757.1700. DELLS ZOMBIE OUTBREAK—You and your team are

equipped with state-of-the-art weapons in order to clear a military base full of the walking dead in this real-life, live-action zombie simulation. www. dellszombieoutbreak.com. 7364 International Drive, 407.745.4068. DISNEY SPRINGS— This mega outdoor lifestyle

center rolls shopping, entertainment and dining into one. Visitors will find the world’s largest Disney store, retail stores at the brand-new Town Center, themed restaurants and bars, Cirque du Soleil, a bowling alley, movie theater, water taxis, attractions and more. Free admission and free parking. www.disneysprings.com. 1780 E. Buena Vista Drive, 407.828.3800. DISNEYQUEST, WALT DISNEY WORLD— Five

floors of interactive attractions, rides and games combining Disney characters and stories with immersive technologies. You can even design and ride your own roller coaster. www.disneysprings. com. Disney Springs, 1500 E. Buena Vista Drive, 407.828.4600. w w w.wh e re t rave le r. com 15

THE GUIDE

ESCAPOLOGY—At this innovative attraction, teams

of up to five players find clues and solve puzzles to discover the key to the escape door within 60 minutes. Each game is based loosely on historical events. www.escapology.com. 11951 International Drive, 407.278.1515. ESPN WIDE WORLD OF SPORTS— This sports

complex on Disney World property is home to professional baseball’s spring training and various amateur sporting events, from cheerleading to soccer. www.disneyworld.com. 700 Victory Way, Kissimmee, 407.828.3267. FUN SPOT USA— Highlights here are fast-paced,

multi-level go-kart tracks; bumper cars and bumper boats, thrilling rides, and an arcade filled with video games. All-day or single ride options. Free admission. Free parking. Open late daily. www. funspotattractions.com. 2850 Florida Plaza Blvd., 407.363.3867. 5700 Fun Spot Way, Kissimmee. GATORLAND— This theme park and nature preserve

combines Old Florida charm with exciting wildlife exhibits and live entertainment. View a breeding marsh, climb the observation tower, watch the alligator wrestling show and ride the zipline. Open daily. www.gatorland.com. 14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail, 800.393.5297. GREEN MEADOWS PETTING FARM— Visit more than

300 farm animals in a beautiful, country setting. www.greenmeadowsfarm.com. 1368 S. Poinciana Blvd., Kissimmee, 407.846.0770. HARD KNOCKS— This impressive laser-tag center

brings out the kid in everyone. www.indoorwar. com. Pointe Orlando, 9101 International Drive, 407.359.9091. HUKOO’S FAMILY FUN— Let the kids loose with

trampolines, bowling, pirate adventures, bumper cars, arcade games and more. www.hukoos.com. 1051 W. Sand Lake Road, 407.203.0977. I FLY ORLANDO— Experience the sensation of sky-

diving in this indoor facility while friends and family look on. www.iflyworld.com. 6805 Visitors Circle, 407.903.1150. I-DRIVE 360—Visitors can hop aboard the 400-foot-

tall Coca-Cola Orlando Eye ferris wheel, explore Madame Tussauds wax attraction and dive into Sea Life aquarium with 5,000 creatures and an ocean tunnel. I-Drive 360 is also home to an array of restaurants, shops and entertainment venues. www.i-drive360.com. 8445 International Drive, 407.999.9985. I-DRIVE NASCAR— I-Drive NASCAR Indoor Kart

Racing is an entertainment complex with sophisticated, state-of-the-art, eco-friendly electric carts. Visitors can compete with each other reaching speeds of up to 45 mph. The indoor location also includes bowling, gaming, meeting rooms and a restaurant. www.idrivenascar.com. 5228 Vanguard St., 407.354.3939. K1 SPEED— Race electric, Italian pro-karts that reach

speeds of 50 mph, all on a huge, indoor track. In addition to a professionally designed, indoor racetrack, there are also spacious lounges, snack bars and authentic racing memorabilia on display. Open daily. www.k1speed.com. 9550 Parksouth Court, 407.434.7500. KISSIMMEE GO KARTS— Play in the arcade or race

on a 1-mile track. Double-seat and junior karts available. www.kissimmeegokarts.com. 4708

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W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, Kissimmee, 407.390.7223. MADAME TUSSAUDS ORLANDO— Experience

famous Americans with this immersive and interactive wax attraction. Shake hands with the president, get on stage with Lady Gaga or up close and personal with Taylor Swift and take the ultimate selfie. www.madametussauds.com/orlando. I-Drive 360, 8329 International Drive 866.630.8315. MAGICAL MIDWAY— Go-karts, a giant slide, laser

tag, bumper boats and cars, and other daredevil rides offer thrills in a classic, midway style. Don’t miss the sling shot that catapults you 390 feet high. www.magicalmidway.com. 7001 International Drive, 407.370.5353. MINDQUEST LIVE ORLANDO—Join in the fun during

this escape game, where you and your team members must solve a puzzle in just 60 minutes. There are four different challenges, including Diamond Heist, The Bomb, Cyber Crash and Mad Scientist. www.mindquestlive.com. 9938 Universal Blvd., 407.392.0885. NYZ ORLANDO—An interactive zombie survival

experience and tactical laser tag arena opening soon at Artegon Marketplace. www.nyzorlando. com. Artegon Marketplace, 5226 International Drive, 407.792.2100. OLD TOWN USA—This old-timey downtown takes

you back to the good old days with restaurants and specialty shops and plenty of entertainment. Free admission and parking. www.myoldtownusa.com. 5770 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, Kissimmee, 407.396.4888. ORLANDO FLY SPORTS— In just a few minutes, skilled

instructors at Orlando Fly Sports teach you to fly using a flyboard, hoverboard or the all-new jetpack for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Many guests say the experience is even better and puts them more at ease than skydiving. Ages 3+. Hotel pick up and drop offs are available. www.orlandoflysports.com. 2200 Lee Road, 321.888.1005. ORLANDO KART CENTER— This arcade and outdoor

track is a challenging course with real curbing and bumps. www.orlandokartcenter.com. 10724 Cosmonaut Blvd., 407.480.2477. OUTER LIMITZ INDOOR TRAMPOLINE ARENA—

Jump to your heart’s content at this indoor trampoline arena. Play dodge ball, dunk a basketball or literally bounce on the walls. The facility is also home to a giant foam pit, great fun for little ones, and a harness-less, climbing rope course. www. rebounderzorlando.com. 6725 S. Kirkman Road, 407.704.6723. REVOLUTION OFF ROAD— Learn to ride an ATV, gear

up for bass fishing, or tool around on dune buggies and 4x4s. www.revolutionoffroad.com. 4000 SR 33, Clermont, 352.400.1322. RIPLEY’S BELIEVE IT OR NOT!— Thanks to the TV

show with the same name, this attraction has become a favorite with its dinosaur exhibit, Odditorium and an Egyptian mummy. www.ripleys.com/ orlando. 8201 International Drive, 407.363.4418. SAMMY DUVALL’S WATERSPORTS CENTRE— Para-

sail, wakeboard, waterski or just enjoy a guided lake tour from Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Open daily. www.sammyduvall.com. 4600 World Drive, 407.939.0754.

Aurora (Roman goddess of dawn), c. 1894. Leaded glass, Tiffany Glass and Decorating Company.

Don’t Miss Tiffany at the Morse Museum WINTER PARK, Fla. — Of the many unexpected pleasures awaiting visitors to Central Florida, none may be as dazzling as a stroll through the galleries of The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, home to the world’s most comprehensive collection of works by American artist and designer Louis Comfort Tiffany. The Tiffany collection at the Morse includes the designer’s jewelry, pottery, paintings, and art glass, as well as his famed leadedglass lamps and windows. Highlights include the restored ByzantineRomanesque chapel interior that Tiffany designed for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago and art and architectural objects from his celebrated Long Island estate, Laurelton Hall. The Morse, which celebrates its 75th anniversary this season, was founded by Jeannette Genius McKean (1909–89) in 1942 and named for her industrialist grandfather. She and her husband, Hugh F. McKean (1908–95), the Museum’s director until his death, built the collection over a 50-year period. In 1957, when a fire ravaged Tiffany’s Laurelton Hall, the McKeans salvaged all they could from the ruins for the Morse. In the Museum’s galleries, visitors will also find exhibits of American art pottery, Art Nouveau objects, and late 19th-and early 20th-century American paintings. For more information, call (407) 645-5311 or visit www.morsemuseum.org.

MUSEUMS+ATTRACTIONS

SEA LIFE AQUARIUM— Experience many underwater

worlds filled with a huge array of sea creatures. Come face-to-face with sharks, visit the hands-on touch pool and the interactive “talking” aquarium or stroll through the 360-degree ocean tunnel. www.visitsealife.com/orlando. I-Drive 360, 8337 International Drive, 866.622.0607. SHOWCASE OF CITRUS—A 2,500-acre you-pick farm

with 70 varieties of citrus, when in season. Visitors can shop for homemade products in the country store, enjoy a famous frozen creamsicle or take a safari tour on a giant 4x4. www.showcaseofcitrus. com. 5010 US Highway 27, Clermont, 352.394.4377. SKELETONS—See over 400 skeletons of a variety of

animals in clever and unusual poses and dioramas. www.skeletonmuseum.com. I-Drive 360, 8441 International Drive, 407.203.6999. TITANIC-THE EXPERIENCE— Visitors can immerse

themselves in history from over 100 years ago through the interactive museum, guided tours, full-scale recreations of the Titanic’s grand staircase and real items from the famously doomed shipwreck. Open daily. Stay for the dinner theater show F and Sa. www.titanictheexperience.com. 7324 International Drive, 407.248.1166. TREE TREK ADVENTURE PARK—This aerial adventure

course built in a 15-acre tree canopy allows visitors to test their mental and physical skills in a series of obstacles including Tarzan-like swings, ladders, suspended bridges, scramble nets, swinging logs, surf boards and more. A highlight of the course is a pair of giant 425-foot zip lines through the trees. Open daily 8 am to dusk. www.orlandotreetrek. com. 7625 Sinclair Road, Kissimmee, 407.797.8735. WHIRLYDOME— WhirlyBall combines bumper

cars, basketball, Jai-alai and hockey inside a 25,000-square-foot dome. Bowling, laser tag and arcade games promise more indoor fun. Closed on M. www.whirlydome.com. 6464 International Drive, 407.212.3030. WONDERWORKS— The interactive “laboratory,” fea-

tures 100 scientific experiences, such as hurricane and earthquake simulators, along with virtual-reality sports, an indoor ropes course and a laser-tag arena. Stay for the Outta Control Magic Dinner Show. www.wonderworksonline.com. Pointe Orlando, 9067 International Drive, 407.351.8800. WORLD OF CHOCOLATE MUSEUM & CAFE— Learn

the long history of chocolate, see world-famous people and landmarks sculpted in chocolate, watch how chocolate is made then enjoy decadent samples. www.wocorlando.com. 11701 International Drive, 407.778.4871. ZOOMAIR ADVENTURE PARK—Zipline through

the trees of the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens in Sanford, north of downtown Orlando. ZOOm Air’s many courses are deftly woven into the area’s natural blackwater floodplain swamp on the zoo property. Choose your own adventure with rainforest rides or courses designed just for little ones. www.zoomair.us. 3755 N.W. Highway 17-92, 407.323.4450.

Miniature Golf CONGO RIVER GOLF— Have fun putting your way

through elaborate 18-hole and 36-hole courses in a jungle setting. www.congoriver.com. 4777 W. Highway 192, Kissimmee, 407.396.6900. 5901 International Drive, 407.248.9181.

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THE GUIDE

DISNEY’S WINTER SUMMERLAND— Winter and

summer-themed courses complete with snowmen and surfboards. www.disneyworld.disney.go.com. Outside Disney’s Blizzard Beach, 407.939.5277. HAWAIIAN RUMBLE ADVENTURE GOLF— Play in

an elaborate Hawaiian setting complete with waterfalls, a volcano and two courses. www.hawaiianrumbleorlando.com. 13529 S. Apopka Vineland Road, 407.239.8300. HOLLYWOOD DRIVE-IN GOLF— Located at

Universal’s CityWalk, this outrageously themed course includes two 18-hole options where players choose from a sci-fi or a haunted house setting. www.hollywooddriveingolf.com. Universal City Walk, 6000 Universal Blvd., 407.802.4848. PIRATE’S COVE ADVENTURE GOLF— Two 18-hole

courses feature caves, footbridges, waterfalls, cannons and even mischievous pirates. www.piratescove.net. 8501 International Drive, 407.352.7378; Crossroads at Lake Buena Vista, 12545 State Road 535, 407.827.1242; 2845 Florida Plaza Blvd., Kissimmee, 407.396.7484. PUTTING EDGE— Come inside for glow-in-the-dark

and black light fun at Artegon Marketplace near Orlando Premium Outlet. www.puttingedge.com. 5250 International Drive, 407.248.0700.

Tours BOGGY CREEK AIRBOAT RIDES— Spot exotic birds,

turtles and alligators in their natural environment while zooming on an air boat. Three tour options are available including a nighttime ride. www. bcairboats.com. 2001 E. Southport Road, Kissimmee, 407.344.9550. CELEBRATION SURREY—This family-owned busi-

ness provides tours of Disney’s town of Celebration in an old-timey car and rents bicycles, includ-

ing two-seaters, for kids and with kids carriages, by the hour. It’s a great way to explore the town’s lakes, woodlands and neighorhoods. www.celebrationsurrey.com. 700 Bloom St., Celebration, 407.791.2822. DOLPHIN PARADISE TOURS— Explore Orlando’s

closest beach, Cocoa Beach, and even visit a secluded island. Hop aboard a dolphin cruise, take a fishing trip or rent a kayak or paddleboat. www.dolphinparadisetours.com. 2700 Harbortown Drive, Merritt Island, 321.848.2486. FLORIDA ECO-SAFARIS— Pedal through the

treetops over forested wetlands, conquer Central Florida’s biggest zipline or explore 4,700 acres of pristine conservation lands. www.floridaecosafaris.com. 4755 N. Kenansville Road, St. Cloud, 407.957.9794. INTERNATIONAL HELI-TOURS— See Orlando and its

main attractions from the unique perspective of a helicopter with various tours and times available. www.orlandohelitours.com. 12651 International Drive, 407.239.TOUR. KISSIMMEE SWAMP TOURS— Enjoy an exciting,

60-minute or 90-minute tour through the headwaters of the Florida Everglades. Open daily. www. kissimmeeswamptours.com. 4500 Joe Overstreet Road, Kenansville, 407.436.1059. LAKERIDGE WINERY & VINEYARD— Most of the

plantings on the 127-acre estate are Florida hybrid bunch grapes and varieties of Muscadine. Table and sparkling wines are produced here and can be sampled in the tasting room. Open daily. www. lakeridgewinery.com. 19239 US 27 N., Clermont, 800.768.9463. MARSH LANDING ADVENTURES/ORLANDO AIRBOAT TOURS— Experience a thrilling airboat ride

through the headwaters of the Florida Everglades.

SPOTLIGHT

Fishing tours also available. www.orlandoairboattours.com. 4275 Neptune Road, St. Cloud, 407.572.3561. ORLANDO BALLOON RIDES— Put this on your

bucket list. The largest passenger ride operator on the Eastern seaboard offers daily flights at sunrise in the Disney area, followed by a champagne toast. www.orlandoballoonrides.com. 44294 US Highway 27, Davenport, 407.894.5040. OTOWN TOURS—Venture out of the tourism cor-

ridor with this professional tour company, who will show you the highlights of downtown Orlando and Winter Park. Walk around Lake Eola and admire its public art, take a trip to Leu Gardens and hop aboard a boat tour of picturesque Winter Park before shopping and dining on Park Avenue. www.otowntours.com. Call for pick-up locations, 888.964.TOUR. PADDLEBOARD ORLANDO— Orlando is home to

hundreds of lakes, and getting out on a paddleboard or kayak is the ideal way to explore. Choose from beginner lessons on the beautiful Lake Killarney or take a full-day excursion to Wekiva Springs. Open daily. www.paddleboardorlando.com. 115 N. Orlando Ave., Winter Park, 407.960.7815. SEGWAY TOURS OF CELEBRATION— Take a glide

on a Segway through the picturesque town that Disney built. www.zetours.com. 5491 Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, Kissimmee, 321.250.1211. SHINGLE CREEK PADDLING CENTER—Shingle

Creek is the source of the Florida Everglades, and it’s located right here in Central Florida. Rent a canoe or kayak or take a guided tour on an electric boat to enjoy the beautiful nature that surrounds. www.paddlingcenter.com. 4266 W. Vine St., 407.344.0881. VIA AIR TOURS— View Orlando’s world-class theme

parks and celebrity estates from a unique perspective: the cockpit of a small aircraft. flyviaairtour.com. 321 N. Crystal Lake, 407.641.4108. WARBIRD ADVENTURES— Come fly like the aces of

yesteryear in some of the most significant military aircraft in history. Perfect for beginning fliers and even pilots, you take the controls in the front seat while an experienced instructor rides along. www. warbirdadventures.com. 233 N. Hoagland Blvd., Kissimmee, 407.870.7366. WILD FLORIDA— Experience Florida wilderness

and wildlife at its best on the shores of beautiful Cypress Lake. Airboat tours, tropical bird aviary, petting zoo, alligator farm, cafe, gift shop, scenic dock and fishing pier along with guided hunting and fishing trips. Closed Su. www.wildfloridairboats.com. 3301 Lake Cypress Road, 407.957.3135.

Each year, the Central Florida town of Eatonville honors their native daughter Zora Neale Hurston, acclaimed forklorist and author of Their Eyes Were Watching God. From Jan. 20-27, area venues will host special events, seminars, concerts, a play and outdoor festival to celebrate Hurston and other African Americans who have made a profound cultural impact on the country. zorafest.org, 227 E. Kennedy Blvd., Eatonville, 407.647.3307

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one-hour narrated tour through the lakes and canals of beautiful Winter Park. See waterfront homes while learning the history of this quaint community. Rides daily from 10 am to 4 pm, cash only. www.scenicboattours.com. 312 E. Morse Blvd., Winter Park, 407.644.4056.

Water Parks SEAWORLD’S AQUATICA— Enjoy the serene to

the wild, with white, sandy beaches, up-close animal experiences, lush landscaping and thrilling rides. Try the new Ihu’s Breakaway Falls, an 80-foot slide with four, 360-degree turns. www.

COURTESY VISIT FLORIDA

ZORA! Festival

WINTER PARK SCENIC BOAT TOUR— Relax on this

MUSEUMS+ATTRACTIONS

aquaticabyseaworld.com. 5800 Water Play Way, 888.800.5447. WALT DISNEY WORLD’S BLIZZARD BEACH— Chill

at the Melt-Away-Bay wave pool, take a ride on the chair lift to the top of the mountain, zip down the 12-story Mount Gushmore or catch a thrill on Summit Plummet. Fun for all ages. www. disneyworld.com. Walt Disney World Resort, 1534 W. Buena Vista Drive, 407.939.7812. WALT DISNEY WORLD’S TYPHOON LAGOON—

Float along a lazy river, snorkel with fish, plunge down nine water slides and take on one of the world’s largest artificially created waves. www. disneyworld.com. 1145 E. Buena Vista Drive, 407.824.4321.

Beyond Orlando BOK TOWER GARDENS— This gorgeous 250-acre

$ OFF

9AM 1-HOUR AIRBOAT TOURS

Closed on Sundays. Not valid with other oﬀers or discounts. Expires 3/31/17.

(407) 957-3135 • www.WILDFLORIDAIRBOATS.com • 3301 Lake Cypress Rd., Kenansville, FL 34739

National Historic Landmark sits on peninsular Florida’s highest point and features Olmsteddesigned landscaped gardens crowned with a majestic bell tower that plays music by the hour. www.boktowergardens.org. 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales, 863.676.1408. BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA BAY— From eight extreme

roller coasters to up-close animal encounters, this park features thrill rides and world-wide adventure with stops in Egypt, Australia and the Serengeti. Best bets are Cheetah Hunt, SheiKra and the new Falcon’s Fury. www.buschgardens. com. 1001 N. Malcolm McKinley Drive, Tampa, 888.800.5447. CLEARWATER MARINE AQUARIUM— Come see

Winter, the star of the hit movie, “Dolphin Tale!” She calls this place home, along with sea turtles, otters, stingrays and sharks. Don’t miss the eco boat tour and the behind the scenes tour. www. seewinter.com. 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, 727.441.1790. DAYTONA INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY— If you

can’t come for one of their world-famous races, daily tours give you a look inside the World Center of Racing. See the famed track and pit road, the Drivers Meeting Room, Sprint Cup garages, Gatorade Victory Lane and the press box. www. daytonainternationalspeedway.com. 1801 W. International Speedway Blvd., Daytona Beach, 800.PIT.SHOP. JOHNS PASS VILLAGE & BOARDWALK— This free

tourist destination right on the beautiful Gulf of Mexico is a one-stop shop for family entertainment with a plethora of shopping and dining options less than 90 minutes from Orlando. www. johnspassvillage.net. 12901 Gulf Blvd., Madeira Beach. 727.249.1868. KENNEDY SPACE CENTER VISITOR COMPLEX— One

of Florida’s most-popular destinations, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex tells the epic story of the U.S. space program. Visitors can stand nose-to-nose with the real Space Shuttle Atlantis, witness an amazing rocket launch in person and meet a real-life astronaut in Astronaut Encounter. The Apollo/Saturn V Center features an actual Saturn V moon rocket. Other must-sees are the 3D IMAX® space films, Journey To Mars: Explorers Wanted and Science On A Sphere. Open daily. www.kennedyspacecenter.com. Kennedy Space Center, SR 405, 321.449.4444.

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THE GUIDE

Golf

Rosen Shingle Creek Shingle Creek Golf Club has just completed a renovation with the renowned Arnold Palmer Design Company to create a new exciting and challenging golf course at Rosen Shingle Creek. www. shinglecreekgolf.com. 9939 Universal Blvd., 407.996.9933.

BAY HILL CLUB & LODGE— Guests of the 70-room

lodge have access to the famous home course of Arnold Palmer, featuring 27 holes along the scenic Butler Chain of Lakes. Amenities also include a spa and salon, marina, tennis courts, restaurant and the Arnold Palmer Golf Academy. www.bayhill.com. 9000 Bay Hill Blvd., 888.422.9445. CELEBRATION GOLF CLUB— This course’s magnifi-

cent par-72, 6,786-yard championship layout was designed by world-renowned golf course architect Robert Trent Jones Sr. and his son, Robert Trent Jones Jr. Amenities include an aquatic driving range and the Windmill Tavern. www.celebrationgolf.com. 701 Golf Park Drive, Celebration, 407.566.4653. CHAMPIONSGATE— Designed by Greg Norman,

this course offers golfers two distinct experiences. The National is an American, parkland-style course carved from farmland and citrus groves. Golfers enjoy the memorable par-3 holes, forgiving fairways and sweeping sand bunkering. The International offers a British Isles links experience, promising a demanding game with its sand dunes and scruffy roughs. www.championsgategolf.com. Omni Orlando Resort, 8575 White Shark Blvd., 407.787.4653. DUBSDREAD— Orlando’s only municipal course,

which opened in 1924, features plentiful live oak trees, impressive landscaping and the Taproom, home to one of the best burgers in town. www.

historicaldubsdread.com. 549 W Par St., 407.246.2551. EAGLE CREEK GOLF CLUB— A par-73, 18-

There’s a lot more going on this month. Visit us online:

www.ritzcarlton.com. 4048 Central Florida Parkway, 407.393.4905.

wheretraveler.com

hole championship golf course with five par-5 holes designed by Ron Garl and Howard Swan. This distinctive course blends American and European design with Scottish-style bunkers and bulkheads around greens. www.eaglecreekorlando.com. 10350 Emerson Lake Blvd., 407.273.4653. FALCON’S FIRE— Rated one of the best public

courses by Golf Digest, this Rees Jones Signaturedesigned championship course is challenging yet playable for golfers of all skill levels and stretches nearly 7,000 yards from the back tees. www. falconsfire.com. 3200 Seralago Blvd., Kissimmee, 407.239.5445. GRAND CYPRESS GOLF CLUB— Everything comes

together here with 45 holes of Jack Nicklaus Signature golf. The golf academy has been ranked among the nation’s top golf schools. www. grandcypress.com/golf_club. 1 N. Jacaranda St., 877.330.7377. GRANDE LAKES AT RITZ-CARLTON— Set at the

headwaters of the Florida Everglades, this Greg Norman-designed course offers two distinct settings. Several holes are routed through pristine areas, where preserved wetlands and natural woodlands dominate. By contrast, the three dynamic finishing holes weave alongside two towering hotels. Caddie-concierge service available.

HARMONY GOLF PRESERVE— The front nine of this Johnny Miller-designed course meanders through the community of Harmony while the back nine winds through acres of lakes, woods and conservation areas. www. harmonygolfpreserve.com. 7251 Five Oaks Drive, Harmony, 407.891.8525.

HAWK’S LANDING GOLF CLUB— Hawk’s Landing

Golf Club spans 220 acres on this par 71, 18-hole course designed by Robert Cupp, Jr. Golfers can hone their skills at the Bill Madonna Golf Academy and refuel at the club’s steakhouse. www. golfhawkslanding.com. 8701 World Center Drive, 800.567.2623. MARRIOTT GRANDE VISTA GOLF CLUB— Sur-

rounded by magnificent oaks and beautiful cypress trees, the Vista course sits on the headwaters of the Florida Everglades. The nine-hole, par-32 Ron Garl design with golf academy encourages learning and development for all levels but also provides challenges for the most avid golfer. www.grandevistagolf.com. 12001 Avenida Verde, 407.238.7677. METROWEST COUNTRY CLUB— This course is

emphasized by broad, generous fairways with 100-foot elevations, water hazards and expansive bunkers. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., MetroWest is a fair yet vigorous test of skill. www. metrowestgolf.com. 2100 S. Hiawassee Road, 407.299.1099.

SAVE THE DATE for the Arnold Palmer Invitational held March 13-19 at the late great golfer’s beloved Bay Hill Club & Lodge in Orlando. 20 W H E R E O R L A N D O I J A N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 2017

COURTESY ROSEN SHINGLE CREEK RESORT

Golf Courses

GOLF

ORANGE COUNTY NATIONAL— Three distinct

and large greens. www.reunionresort.com. 7593 Gathering Drive, Reunion, 407.662.1000.

courses include the Crooked Cat, a winding, links-style course offering unpredictable play and a memorable back nine; Panther, 7,295 yards of notable vegetation, landscapes and elevations; and Tooth, a nine-hole executive course on a man-made lake that is great for warm-up, practice and kids. www.ocngolf.com. 16301 Phil Ritson Way, Winter Garden, 407.656.2626.

ROYAL ST. CLOUD GOLF LINKS— ”The #1 Rated

Links Course in Orlando” by Buick Style & Review magazine. For players who appreciate the historic courses of the British Isles, they’ll love the 27 holes of this spectacular links design, all on emeraldgreen fairways and silky-smooth greens and with four tee choices from 7,103 yards to 5,059 yards. www.royalstcloudgolflinks.com. 5310 Michigan Ave., St. Cloud, 407.891.7010.

PROVIDENCE— The 18-hole, semi-private Mike

Dasher-designed course will test the physical and mental skills of your game. The course winds its way through creeks and lakes surrounded by large palms and hardwoods. Picturesque holes are challenging yet fair. www.providence-golf.com. 1518 Clubhouse Blvd., Davenport, 863.424.7916.

SOUTHERN DUNES GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB—

MYSTIC DUNES GOLF CLUB— Designed by Cham-

pions Tour Player and NBC golf analyst Gary Koch and highly rated by Golf Digest magazine, the par-72 course is distinguished by 80-foot elevation changes, rolling sand dunes, mature oaks and large wetland areas. www.mysticdunesgolf.com. 7600 Mystic Dunes Lane, 407.787.5678. REUNION RESORT— Three courses are designed by

the biggest names in golf. Arnold Palmer’s Legacy Course is a 6,916-yard, par-72, 18-hole course with dramatic, rolling hills. Jack Nicklaus’ Tradition Course is smooth with long horizon lines, tempting you to hit big. Tom Watson’s 7,257-yard, par-72 Independence Course hosts a variety of bunkers

Designed by Steve Smyers, it’s consistently recognized by Golf Digest, Golf Week, and Links magazines as one of Florida’s best. The hillside layout stretches over 7,200 yards with 100 feet of elevation changes and great views of fairways. Fast rolling greens test even the most experienced golfer. www.southerndunes.com. 2888 Southern Dunes Blvd., Haines City, 800.632.6400. STREAMSONG GOLF RESORT—This 16,000-acre

resort in Central Florida features two signature golf courses and a hotel and spa. Located on a former mining site, the unique courses feature dramatic topography, Links-style fairways and fast, true greens. Caddies strongly encouraged. www. streamsongresort.com. 1000 Streamsong Drive, Bowling Green, 888.294.6322. THE LEGENDS AT ORANGE LAKE RESORT— The

crown jewel of this multi-course golf club is The Legends, featuring the Links and the Pines

designed by Arnold Palmer. Reminiscent of an old Scottish-style course, the Links contains one of the longest holes in Florida. The Pines is tree-lined nearly every step of the way. www.orangelake.com. 8505 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway 192, Kissimmee, 407.239.0000. TRANQUILO GOLF CLUB AT FOUR SEASONS— Bordered by preserved natural wetlands and a certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, wildlife abounds. Rolling fairways, large, undulating greens and a lush setting of woodlands and lakes combine for a calming experience. www.fourseasonsorlando.com. 3451

Golf View Drive, 407.313.7777. WALDORF ASTORIA GOLF CLUB— This Rees Jones-

designed, 18-hole, 7,113-yard championship course is open to the public. The pine and cypress trees that line the fairways and bunkers are reminiscent of courses designed a century ago. www.waldorfastoriagolfclub.com. 14200 Bonnet Creek Resort Lane, 407.597.3783. WALT DISNEY WORLD GOLF-LAKE BUENA VISTA—

Old-fashioned styling gives this course a countryclub feel. While technically shorter than other Disney courses, this combines ubiquitous water with narrow fairways to create a challenging game. www.golfwdw.com. Walt Disney World Resort, 407.939.4653. WALT DISNEY WORLD GOLF-OAK TRAIL— A nine-

hole, par-36 course, Oak Trail was designed with families in mind. www.golfwdw.com. Walt Disney World Resort, 407.939.4653.

Silence your inner voice and just be. Be still. Be relaxed. Be rejuvenated. Let stress melt away, then awaken your senses with the warmth of a mud wrap, the bliss of a soothing massage or the tranquility of a signature facial. Come experience the casual elegance of The Spa at Shingle Creek, also offering a full-service salon and modern fitness studio all in a serene setting, naturally.

SpaAtShingleCreek .com • 407.996.9772

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THE GUIDE

Entertainment

The Main Event Entertainment Eat, play and bowl at this sprawling entertainment complex complete with state-of-the-art bowling, multi-level laser tag, high ropes adventure courses, billiards, virtual video games and dining experiences ranging from fast-casual to chef-inspired with creative cocktails, beer and wine. 9101 International Drive, 407.352.3300, www.mainevent.com

DISNEY SPRINGS— This mega outdoor lifestyle

the theme of Atlantic City’s famous stretch offers a sports bar, piano sing-along bar and dance club, as well as numerous restaurants and shops. www. disneyworld.com. 2101 N. Epcot Resorts Blvd., 407.939.5277. DOWNTOWN ORLANDO— Downtown Orlando is the

hometown heart of Central Florida arts, culture, nightlife and entertainment. From world-class performances at the Dr. Phillips Center to celebrated fine dining options, upscale boutique hotels, eclectic shopping and the area’s best bar scene, Downtown Orlando is dynamic and alive year-round. Church Street and Wall Street are popular areas for the younger crowd with casual bars and local pubs to upscale wine bars and rooftop dance clubs while Lake Eola and Thornton Park offer weekly events, farmers markets and scenic environments for visitors of all ages. www.downtownorlando.com. 400 S. Orange Ave., 407.246.2555.

INTERNATIONAL DRIVE— This stretch

There’s a lot more going on this month. Visit us online:

universalorlando.com. 6000 Universal between Universal and SeaWorld is a Blvd., 407.363.8000. hub for nightlife and entertainment for wheretraveler.com adults or the whole family. Find dinner Bars, Lounges & Clubs shows, game centers, night clubs or reABRACADABAR— This is the perfect place laxed pubs, especially concentrated around for grabbing a late-night drink after leaving Epcot the I-Drive 360 and Pointe Orlando. or on the way to dinner at Disney’s BoardWalk. This PARK AVENUE WINTER PARK— Central Florida’s fun-filled bar has a few tricks up its sleeve, like a shopping, dining, and cultural showcase, Park magical menu, disappearing art work and wallpaAvenue is home to the Morse Museum of American per with hidden symbols. Choose from old-timey Art, Rollins College’s Cornell Fine Arts Museum classics with a twist like the Elixir 13 made with and the Bach Festival Society of Winter Park, Absinthe or the Magic Hattan. www.disneyworld. which regularly hosts free, outdoor concerts in com. 2101 Epcot Resorts Blvd., 407.939.1947. the stunning oak-canopied Central Park where AERO— Florida might be flat, but from this rooftop seasonal art festivals, exotic car shows and fashion roost, you have a terrific view of downtown above events are held. www.experienceparkavenue.com. the buildings and trees. Relax to tunes spun by 407.644.8281. hip DJs while you enjoy a signature cocktail. www. THORNTON PARK DISTRICT—Visitors looking to skysixty.com. 54 N. Orange Ave. decompress will find relief in the brick-lined streets BIG BELLY— Originally a speakeasy during prohibiof Thornton Park, one of Orlando’s most stylish tion, this venue is still a favorite watering hole with districts. Just east of Lake Eola, Thornton Park Disa wide selection of craft beer, multiple tv screens trict is home to a colorful commercial district with and a dance floor. www.churchstreetbars.com. 33 a European feel to the restaurants and boutiques. Church St., 407.649.4270. thorntonparkdistrict.com. 407.701.9382. UNIVERSAL CITYWALK— Think Times Square

Orlando style. At this free entertainment complex just outside Universal’s theme parks, you’ll find an electric mix of clubs and restaurants such as Hard Rock Café, Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, Red Coconut, The Groove and Rising Star. 11 am-2 am. No admission fee, but cover charges apply. www.

ORLANDO IS ONE of the only cities in the world with multiple fireworks shows every single night of the year. 22 W H E R E O R L A N D O I J A N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 2017

BLUE MARTINI—This classy and chic martini lounge

is the perfect place to grab dinner or drinks, whether it’s happy hour or late-night. Choose from cocktails, champagne and wine to specialty martinis, from a lemon drop or a cosmo to the signature Blue Martini made with Van Gogh blue vodka, cointreau and blue curacao that’s served

COURTESY THE MAIN EVENT ENTERTAINMENT

Entertainment Districts

E N T E R TA I N M E N T

with a glow stick. www.bluemartinilounge.com. 9101 International Drive, 407.447.2583. BOB MARLEY: A TRIBUTE TO FREEDOM— Live music

and island drinks flow from a re-creation of Marley’s home in Kingston, Jamaica. www.universalorlando.com. Universal CityWalk, 407.224.2262. BÖSENDORFER LOUNGE— The Grand Bohemian’s

hotel lounge is home to an Imperial Grand Bösendorfer piano, one of only two in the world. Live jazz and a DJ on weekends. www.grandbohemianhotel.com. 325 S. Orange Ave., 407.313.9000. CHILLERS— Known for frozen cocktails, Jello shots

and a younger crowd on downtown’s lively Church Street. www.churchstreetbars.com. 33 W. Church St., 407.649.4270. COWBOYS ORLANDO— Kick up your boots and

dance at this wild Western nightclub, featuring a variety of country music and one of the largest hardwood dance floors in town. www.cowboysorlando.com. 1108 S. Orange Blossom Trail, 407.422.7115. COWGIRLS ROCK BAR—Join the party at I-Drive

360 at this new bar. Enjoy drink specials, ride the mechanical bull and dance with the resident cowgirls. www.cowgirlsorlando.com. I-Drive 360, 8371 International Drive, 8445 International Drive 407.930.3654. DON JEFE’S TEQUILA PARLOUR— A modern Mexi-

can cantina with 100 types of tequila on the everpopular Church Street. www.donjefesorlando. com. 41 W. Church St., 407.203.0873. EMBER— This cool, open-air bar and restaurant

with its Mediterranean-influenced décor features libations ranging from Fireball to Dom Perignon. www.emberorlando.com. 42 W. Central Blvd., 407.849.5200. EVE ORLANDO—This newly renovated nightclub

in the heart of downtown Orlando offers plush seating, a balcony terrace, multiple bars and live music along with DJs in a stylish setting. www. eveorlando.com. 110 S. Orange Ave. ICEBAR ORLANDO— Featured as one of the top 10

“Extreme Barhopping” bars on the Travel Channel and as “America’s Best” on the Food Network with signature cocktails, state-of-the-art lighting, exquisite ice carvings and fun DJs. www.icebarorlando.com. 8967 International Drive, 407.426.7555. INDEPENDENT BAR— With a different theme each

night, including ’80s and Indie college rock, this unique, multi-level club has three full-service bars and two dance floors. 70 N. Orange Ave., 407.839.0457. LA CAVA DEL TEQUILA— Bypass the margarita

stands at Epcot and head to this intimate little tequila bar tucked inside the Aztec temple. You’ll find servers from Mexico and a full line-up of specialty margaritas and high-end tequila. www. lacavadeltequila.com. 200 Epcot Center Drive, 407.939.1947. LATITUDES— The open rooftop and tiki hut-style

atmosphere on popular Church Street inspires shorts and flip-flops. www.churchstreetbars.com. 33 W. Church St., 407.649.4270. LOFT 55— Restaurant by day, club by night, Loft 55’s

menu contains American tapas, along with beer and wine parings and an artisan cocktail menu. At night, the venue becomes a nightclub boasting VIP and bottle service. Open M and W-Sa nightly.

www.loft55orlando.com. 55 W. Church St., Suite 211, 407.792.2555. MYTH— Stylish and sophisticated, this is the ideal

place to grab a favorite drink or try a new concoction based upon what the bartender thinks about your personality. www.hiltonbonnetcreek.com. 14100 Bonnet Creek Resort Lane, 407.597.3600. NATIVE SOCIAL BAR— Whether it be after work,

pre-dinner, post-game or dressed up for a night on the town, all are welcome. Sample specialty drinks, an exclusive whiskey or do it up with bottle service. www.nativesocialbar.com. 27 W. Church St., 407.456.1391. ONE80— This Amway Center rooftop lounge affords

fantastic views of the skyline and serves up great specials on Grey Goose cocktails along with a DJ and a hot crowd. www.180downtown.com. 400 W. Church St., 407.440.7180. PAT O’BRIEN’S— Sip a famous Hurricane, the

24-ounce, signature rum drink, while chatting around the flaming fountain on the courtyard straight out of New Orleans. Or head inside to sing along to the dueling pianos. www.patobriens. com. Universal CityWalk, 6000 Universal Blvd., 407.224.2106. THE PHARMACY— Enter through an unmarked

elevator door to a 1920s-style speakeasy known for its craft cocktails and farm-to-table cuisine. Order the Pharmacy Manhattan and get a round of small plates for the table. D (Tu-Sa). www. thepharmacyorlando.com. 8060 Via Dellagio Way, 407.985.2972. RE:MIX LOUNGE— At the posh Aloft hotel, you can

sip a drink, enjoy free WiFi, or pick up a game of pool, with day-to-night lighting and music to switch up the vibe. www.starwoodhotels.com/ alofthotels. 500 S. Orange Ave., 407.380.3500. RED COCONUT CLUB— Lounge on the balcony

outside or enjoy live music and a lit-up dance floor inside. Sip on signature martinis, or splurge with VIP bottle service. www.universalorlando. com. Universal CityWalk, 6000 Universal Blvd., 407.224.2425. ROK ROOM— You can party like a “Rok” star with

the jamming DJs and this lively downtown spot. No cover. 41 W. Church St. SEÑOR FROG’S— A colorful, festive venue which

invites children to come early but adults to stay late with live entertainment and music. www. seniorfrogsorlando.com. 8747 International Drive, 407.351.2525. STAGGER INN— Round up the gang and head to

downtown’s country bar, a great place to tip your hat to great country music. 100 E. Central Blvd., 407.317.8484. SUGARCANES RUM BAR & LOUNGE— Enjoy a

full menu of the world’s greatest rums, dine on Jamaican-style cuisine and smoke a cigar out on the patio. Live music is also offered, featuring reggae, samba, kizomba, West African and salsa. www.sugarcanesrumbar.com. 8255 International Drive, 407.704.1008. THE COURTESY BAR— Classic and market fresh

cocktails, impeccable craft beers and distinctive wines are all served in this small but artful bar. www.thecourtesybar.com. 114 N. Orange Ave., 407.450.2041.

THE GROOVE— Featuring top-name DJs, themed

lounges, special effects and a high-energy atmosphere. Teen Nights regularly scheduled. www.universalorlando.com. Universal CityWalk, 407.224.2227. THE OTHER BAR— It’s one big street party on Wall

Street, and this venue is a great stop with its large, outdoor patio with full-service bar. 18 Wall St., 407.843.8585. THE WOODS— Located on the second floor of the

Historic Rose Building in downtown Orlando, The Woods features high-quality cocktails and craft beers in an intimate setting. Fresh ingredients and originality come together at this craft bar. www.thewoodsorlando.com. 49 N. Orange Ave., 407.203.1114. VELVET LOUNGE— In this intimate lounge inside

the chic Hard Rock Hotel, you’ll find purple velvet, animal prints, sculpted metal and a beautifully curved bar. www.hardrockhotelorlando.com. 5800 Universal Blvd., 407.503.2000. VINTAGE LOUNGE— High-energy DJs make you

want to groove the night away at this dance lounge. Choose from over 80 different wines, 50 vodkas and an extensive port and scotch collection. www.vintagelounge.biz. 114 S. Orange Ave., 407.649.0000. W XYZ BAR— The fun flows at this hip Aloft Hotel

bar with everything from pints to pinot noirs to signature drinks and fun music. www.starwoodhotels.com/alofthotels. 500 S. Orange Ave., 407.380.3500. WAITIKI RETRO TIKI LOUNGE— Located on the

popular Wall Street Plaza, this Polynesian-themed restaurant and bar offers a tropical vibe with rum drinks and eclectic music. www.wallstplaza.net/ waitiki. 26 Wall Street Plaza, 407.481.1199.

Gay Bars PARLIAMENT HOUSE— A GLBT nightclub resort

with seven venues including a disco, live theater and a swimming pool. www.parlimenthouse.com. 410 N. Orange Blossom Trail, 407.425.7571. PULSE— The celebrated LGBT hotspot where terror

and tragedy struck on June 12, 2016, taking the lives of 49 members of our Orlando community, remains closed as a memorial to the victims. The former home to fun, love, acceptance and equailty, where specialty drinks, live entertainment and lots of dancing took place in three unique rooms may be broken, but Orlando’s spirit is not. For information on how to help, visit www. weareorlando.org. www.pulseorlandoclub.com. 1912 S. Orange Ave., 407.649.3888. REVERE AT THE M— Enjoy a laid-back vibe by the

pool outside and a high-energy club atmosphere inside with dancing and live shows. The newest gay club in the tourism corridor opens at 2 pm. www.revereorlando.com. 6603 International Drive, 407.770.6004. SAVOY— A low-key GLBT bar in the popular Ivanhoe

Row district near downtown with a back patio and pool tables. www.savoyorlando.com. 1913 N. Orange Ave. SOUTHERN NIGHTS— A popular night spot for the

local GLBT community in Orlando’s Milk District. www.southernnightsorl.com. 375 S. Bumby Ave., 407.412.5039.

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THE GUIDE

Breweries/Pubs BRICK HOUSE— This tavern and tap room offers a

neighborhood vibe in the heart of the visitors’ corridor. www.brickhousetavernandtap.com. 8440 International Drive, 407.355.0321. CROOKED CAN BREWERY— This craft brewery is

located inside Plant Street Market, an artisan food market in the charming downtown of Winter Garden. You can also look for Crooked Can on beer lists around the city. www.crookedcan.com. 426 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, 407.395.9520 ORLANDO BREWING— Florida’s only certified

organic brewery. Brewed right on the premises, 21 beers are on tap and free tours are offered. Live music on weekends. www.orlandobrewing.com. 1301 Atlanta Ave., 407.872.1117. REDLIGHT REDLIGHT— This independent micro-

brew haven is worth the trek outside the visitor corridor. A selection of worldly beers has earned a loyal following. www.redlightredlightbeerparlour. com. 2810 Corrine Drive, 407.893.9832. ROSE & CROWN— Inside Epcot’s World Showcase,

this pub delivers great brews in an authentic British setting. Park admission required. www. disneyworld.com. Epcot, Walt Disney World, 407.939.3463. SCHUMANN’S JÄGER HAUS— Expect great German

food and beer in this authentic, casual setting. www.schumannsjagerhaus.com. 25 W Church St., 407.985.1950. THE PUB— Enjoy nightly specials, a popular happy

hour and traditional British fare. www.experiencethepub.com/orlando. Pointe Orlando, 9101 International Drive, 407.352.3205. UNDERGROUND PUBLIC HOUSE— An American

pub with an English twist, this blends a modern atmosphere with the nostalgic feeling of a public house. Featuring craft beers, drink specials, organic food and eight flat screens. 19 S. Orange Ave., 407.841.4000. WORLD OF BEER— With over 500 hundred bottles

and over 50 taps of the best craft beers from around the globe, you’re sure to find a new favorite. www.wobusa.com. 7800 Dr. Phillips Blvd. 407.355.3315. 431 E. Central Blvd.; UCF, 3402 Technological Ave. YARD HOUSE— You’ll find a center bar with seem-

ingly endless draft beers, from obscure ales to traditional lagers. L, D (daily). www.yardhouse.com. I-Drive 360, 8367 International Drive, 407.351.8220.

Cigar Bars CORONA CIGAR CO.— A trendy hot spot, Corona’s

bar and store locations are actually 4,600-squarefoot-plus humidors. Select a cigar from the Dominican Republic, Honduras, Nicaragua or Spain and relax in the lounge area with a glass of port, wine or beer. Open daily. www.coronacigar.com. 7792 W. Sand Lake Road 407.248.1212; 127 S. Orange Ave., 407.404.5344; 1130 TownPark Ave., Lake Mary, 407.333.3453. ISTANBUL LOUNGE— Enjoy a relaxing atmosphere in

this I-Drive 360 hookah and cigar lounge featuring a wide selection of cigars, hookah flavors, beers and wines. www.i-drive360.com. 8395 International Drive, 407.630.6001.

24 W H E R E O R L A N D O I J A N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 2017

SUGARCANES RUM BAR & LOUNGE— Enjoy a

Sports Bars DAVE & BUSTER’S— Eat, drink and play. With an

arcade, basketball, golf and dozens of games, this entertainment venue, restaurant and sports bar is

fun for all ages. www.daveandbusters.com. 8986 International Drive, 407.541.3300. DAVID’S CLUB BAR & GRILL— The American gastro

pub inside the Hilton Orlando is a fun spot to watch the game. A fresh and creative menu is offered alongside signature cocktails. www.thehiltonorlando.com. 6001 Destination Parkway, 407.313.8581. HIGH VELOCITY SPORTS BAR— Inside the Orlando

World Center Marriott, this sports bar is one of the largest in town. Stop by for food and drinks while you watch on one of 28 flat-panel, high-definition

E N T E R TA I N M E N T

TVs. www.marriottworldcenter.com. 8701 World Center Drive, 407.238.8690. MILLER’S ALE HOUSE— Burgers, seafood, beer,

and big screens at every turn make this chain of sports bars a no-brainer. www.millersalehouse. com. I-Drive Ale House, 8963 International Drive, 407.370.6688; Hunters Creek Ale House, 13536 S John Young Parkway, 407.852.9151; Florida Mall Ale House, 1667 Florida Mall Ave., 407.240.4080; Kissimmee Ale House, 8123 Bronson Memorial Highway, 407.238.4499; Lake Buena Vista Ale House, 12371 Winter Garden Vineland Road,

407.239.1800; Kirkman Ale House, 5573 S. Kirkman Road, 407.248.0000. NBC SPORTS GRILL & BREW—The world’s first-ever

NBC Sports Grill & Brew recently opened at Universal CityWalk. Guests can enjoy an innovative menu of game-day bites, more than 100 high-definition TVs, 100 types of beer and variety of games from foosball to shuffleboard. A massive, 120-foot-plus HD screen outside plays some of the greatest moments in NBC Sports history. L, D (daily). www. universalorlando.com. Universal CityWalk, 6000 Universal Blvd., 407.224.4233.

WRECKERS SPORTS BAR— Voted “Best Place to

Watch a Game” by Orlando Sentinel readers, catch a game on a two-story, 37-foot sports screen and over 50 high-definition TVs. www.wreckerssportsbar.com. Gaylord Palms, 6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee, 407.586.1330.

Full-Service Bowling KINGS BOWL—A one-stop shop for family entertain-

ment, including bowling, pool, bocce and other games along with an upscale menu and full bar. 21+ after 8 pm. Opens at 11 am on F-Sa and 3 pm Su-Th. www.kingsorlando.com. 8255 S. International Drive, 407.363.0200. SPLITSVILLE LUXURY LANES— Offers bowling,

billiards, drinks, dinner and dancing. Bowling lanes built in clusters, which create unique sight lines and bowling from new angles and perspectives. Features a sophisticated menu with choices such as sliders of tuna steak, fresh-rolled sushi, handtossed pizzas, and entrees such as hand-cut filet mignon, chipotle pork tenderloin and grilled mahi mahi. Disney Springs, 1494 E. Buena Vista Drive, 407.938.7467.

Cinema AMC DISNEY SPRINGS— Features 24 screens with

loveseat-style, stadium seating and Fork & Screen, allowing guests to order dinner and cocktails to their seats at the touch of a button. www.dinein. amctheatres.com. 1500 E. Buena Vista Drive, 888.262.4386. AMC UNIVERSAL CINEPLEX 20— This 20-theater

Cineplex features wall-to-wall screens, state-ofthe-art projection and stadium-style seating. www. amctheatres.com. CityWalk, 6000 Universal Blvd., 407.354.3374. COBB PLAZA CINEMA CAFE 12— Downtown’s cinema

featuring 12 auditoriums with luxury leather, stadium seating, digital surround sound and a full menu with beer and wine. www.cobbtheatres.com. 155 S. Orange Ave., 407.982.5444. ENZIAN THEATER— The area’s only non-profit, al-

ternative cinema. Featuring comfortable couches, colorful tables and a dinner menu. Annual events include film festivals, Popcorn Flicks in the Park, a Cult Classics series and meet-the-filmmaker events. www.enzian.org. 1300 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland, 407.629.0054. REGAL CINEMAS— See one of the latest movies in

one of 20 stadium-seating theaters or on the giant IMAX screen. www.pointeorlando.com. Pointe Orlando, 9101 International Drive, 407.248.9228.

Dinner Shows CAPONE’S DINNER & SHOW— Discover the mysteri-

ous world of 1931 Gangland Chicago. This entertaining show features stand-up comedy routines, audience interaction and musical performances. The dinner buffet includes American and Italian favorites with adult beverages. www.alcapones. com. 4740 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, Kissimmee, 407.397.2378. HOOP-DEE-DOO MUSICAL REVUE— Great family fun

at this hoedown-style show, with old-timey favorite tunes and plenty of corny jokes. Enjoy a plentiful meal of barbecue ribs, fried chicken and all the fixins. Three seatings nightly. www.disneyworld.com. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, 407.939.3463. w w w.wh e re t rave le r. com 25

THE GUIDE

ABOUT ORLANDO

Daring knights compete and joust atop Andalusian stallions. Walk through a medieval village and enjoy a four-course banquet with no silverware. www. medievaltimes.com. 4510 W. Vine St., Kissimmee, 888.935.6878. SLEUTHS MYSTERY DINNER SHOWS— The task at

hand is to search for clues as a hilarious mystery unfolds over dinner. 7:30 pm. www.sleuths.com. 8267 International Drive, 407.363.1985. THE OUTTA CONTROL DINNER SHOW— Spectacular

magic, high-energy comedy improv and audience participation will have you on the edge of your seat. Dinner includes unlimited hand-tossed pizza, salad, popcorn, beer, wine and soda. www. wonderworksonline.com. WonderWorks, 9067 International Drive, 407.351.8800. THE SPIRIT OF ALOHA— Celebrate the traditions of

the Polynesian Islands through song, dance and theater. A fabulous fire dancer steals the show. TuSa, 5:15 and 8 pm. www.disneyworld.com. Disney’s Polynesian Resort, 1800 Epcot Resorts Blvd., 407.939.3463. TITANIC-THE DINNER EVENT— An entertaining and

Facing off with Darth Vader in Jedi Training at Hollywood Studios and then watching the amazing new Star Wars fireworks show.

Having a blast watching Blue Man Group after a day at Universal’s theme parks.

Watching the amazing West Indian manatees at Blue Spring State Park or Crystal River.

Introducing the kids to Broadway with “Festival of the Lion King,” a 30-minute stage show held daily at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

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Shopping along Park Avenue in Winter Park and taking a pontoon boat ride around the lake. Scoring a FastPass+ for Epcot’s new Frozen Ever After ride and taking the utlimate scrapbook picture with Anna and Elsa.

Going under the big top at Disney Springs to watch the incredible Cirque du Soleil performers.

Snagging some great deals for the new year at Orlando’s two Premium Outlet malls and Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores.

Catching beads and loot at your first Mardi Gras parade at Universal Studios.

Screaming the entire time while riding Mako at SeaWorld, the city’s newest, fastest and tallest roller coaster.

Discover more at

wheretraveler.com 26 W H E R E O R L A N D O I J A N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 2017

tasty way to learn about the historic sinking of the famous Titanic. Captain Smith’s retirement party is the premise for this dinner show with dancing, songs and other surprises. www.titanicdinnerevent. com. 7324 International Drive, 407.248.1166. WANTILAN LUAU— Tahitian beauties and fire-eaters

tell the story and history of the South Seas while guests enjoy a South Pacific-inspired buffet. 6:30 pm Sa and Tu. www.universalorlando.com. Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Universal Orlando, 407.503.3463.

Live Music THE BEACHAM/THE SOCIAL— This is the place to go

downtown to see the most current and up-andcoming indie bands. www.thebeacham.com. 46 N. Orange Ave. and 54 N. Orange Ave., 407.246.1419. HARD ROCK LIVE— The 2,500-capacity concert

hall is equipped with the latest in sound and light technology, bringing in some of the biggest names in music. www.hardrock.com. CityWalk, 6050 Universal Blvd., 407.351.5483. HOUSE OF BLUES— Grab a bite of Southern soul

food and rock out at this music-infused restaurant and concert venue in Disney Springs. Come to see some of the best touring musical acts in town or enjoy the Sunday Gospel Brunch when uplifted spirits are served alongside mimosas and grits. www.hob.com. Disney Springs, 1490 E. Buena Vista Drive, 407.934.2583. ITTA BENA—This speakeasy-style restaurant

and piano bar serves upscale Southern cuisine with a Mississippi Delta influence and plenty of personality. D (nightly). www.ittabenadining.com/ orlando. Pointe Orlando, 9101 International Drive, 407.757.2910. LAFAYETTE’S—Seven nights a week, performances

by local Florida bands to touring acts make Lafayette’s a staple for all great music fans. As a testament to its Southern roots, Lafayette’s kitchen features a variety of inspired options including po’ boys, shrimp and grits and freshly shucked oysters and crab claws when in season. L, D (daily), Br (Su). www.lafayettes.com/orlando. Pointe Orlando, 9101 International Drive, 407.930.1655.

MANGO’S TROPICAL CAFE— Mango’s is a showcase

of international talent, cuisine and entertainment compared to some of the world’s most-renowned Caribbean and South American Carnivals. Daily and nightly family-friendly performances feature Latin dancers in a full line-up of entertainment that ranges from salsa to bachata and reggae to pop. Treat yourself to Latin and Caribbean comfort foods and hand-made specialty drinks, including a full variety of exotic mojitos, daiquiris, martinis and cosmos. D (nightly). www.mangos.com/orlandohome. 8126 International Drive, 407.673.4422. PLAZA LIVE— Constructed in 1963 as the city’s first

two-screen movie theater, the historic concert venue offers a wide range of performances, comedians and cultural events. www.plazaliveorlando. com. 425 N. Bumby Ave., 407.228.1220. RAGLAN ROAD IRISH PUB AND RESTAURANT— Grab

a Guinness, try a contemporary take on shepherd’s pie and have a rollicking good time at this Irish-accented megapub and restaurant at Disney Springs. L, D (daily), Br (Sa-Su). www.raglanroadirishpub.com. Disney Springs, 1640 E. Buena Vista Drive, 407.938.0300. TIMUCUA ARTS WHITE HOUSE—A monthly, under-

ground, salon-style concert series held in a threestory, 125-seat atrium-style auditorium built specifically for public concerts. Held Sunday evenings, the free events combine multimedia exhibitions that feature the works of visual and performing artists with touring and local artists in the genres of jazz, classical, world, modern and Latin music. www.timucua.com. 2000 S. Summerlin Ave. TIN ROOF— Enjoy live music almost every night of

the week along with a great dinner and drink menu at this popular Nashville-based venue. Sit outside for fantastic views of the Orlando Eye observation wheel. 11 am to 2 am. www.tinroofbars.com. 8371 International Drive, 407.270.7926. WILL’S PUB/LIL INDIES—A neighborhood bar, live

music venue and anchor of the Orlando’s creative district. Conveniently connected, Lil Indies is an intimate, cozy, non-smoking speakeasy serving craft beer, wine and cocktails perfect for conversations, dates and parties. www.willspub.org. 1042 N. Mills Ave., 407.748.8256.

Performing Arts & Comedy BLUE MAN GROUP— Expect original rock music,

audience participation and a performance like you’ve never seen before at this permanent show at Universal Orlando. www.blueman.com. 6000 Universal Blvd., 407.258.3626. CIRQUE DU SOLEIL— ”La Nouba” reinvents tradi-

tional circus acts with acrobats and aerialists with a surrealistic touch. Tu-Sa 6 pm and 9 pm. www. cirquedusoleil.com/lanouba. Disney Springs, 1478 E. Buena Vista Drive, 407.939.7600. DR. PHILLIPS CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS— Named by Travel + Leisure magazine as

“World’s Coolest New Tourist Attractions 2015” and among their “Best Places to Travel in 2015,” the two-block downtown destination sets the stage for Broadway shows, the Orlando Ballet and the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra. Don’t miss the hit-musical “Wicked” Jan. 11-29 and “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder” Feb. 7-12. www.drphillipscenter.org. 455 S. Magnolia Ave., 844.513.2014.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT: COURTESY UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT; COURTESY WALT DISNEY WORLD (3)

10 things we love

MEDIEVAL TIMES DINNER AND TOURNAMENT—

E N T E R TA I N M E N T

THE LION KING MUSICAL— Don’t miss this mini-

Broadway show with spectacular costumes and talented singers, dancers and gymnasts, offered daily at the Animal Kingdom. www.disneyworld. com. 2901 Osceola Parkway, 407.939.5277. MAD COW THEATRE— With a passion for both classic

and contemporary plays, this professional theater company presents compelling works for a wide range of audiences. www.madcowtheatre.com. 54 W. Church St., 407.297.8788. ORLANDO BALLET— Central Florida’s only profes-

sional resident ballet company, with performances at the Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts. www.orlandoballet.org. 2211 N. Orange Ave., 407.426.1739. ORLANDO PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA— Central

Florida’s resident orchestra, appearing in more than 125 performances each season. www.orlandophil.org. 425 N. Bumby Ave., 407.770.0071. ORLANDO SHAKESPEARE THEATER— This full-

season professional theater includes the works of William Shakespeare and other classics, holiday comedies and a series of plays for young audiences. www.orlandoshakes.org. Loch Haven Cultural Park, Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St., 407.447.1700. SAK COMEDY LAB— Wayne Brady of “Whose Line Is

It Anyway?” provided spectators with comic relief before hitting the big time at this Orlando favorite, where improv performers showcase their quick wit and skills. Performances T-Sa. www.sak.com. 29 S. Orange Ave., 407.648.0001. WINTER PARK PLAYHOUSE—This professional musi-

cal theater presents an annual series of upbeat musical comedies and revues from Broadway as well as a monthly, New York-style cabaret. www. winterparkplayhouse.org. 711 N. Orange Ave., Winter Park, 407.645.0145.

Sing-Alongs HOWL AT THE MOON— For a rowdy good time,

head to this high-energy piano bar. Entertainers tickle the ivories as well as your funny bones while playing the best music from the ’70s to today. www. howlatthemoon.com. 8815 International Drive, 407.354.5999. JELLYROLLS— Make a request at this lively piano

bar (they know everything), and then sing along with the dueling piano players. www.jellyrolls.us. Disney’s BoardWalk, 2101 N. Epcot Resorts Blvd., 407.560.8770. PAT O’BRIEN’S— Sip a famous Hurricane, the

bar, with all the bells and whistles. Take the spotlight as lead singer of a band with a large selection of songs from rock ‘n’ roll and hiphop to country while your friends watch in the theater. www.universalorlando.com. CityWalk, Universal Orlando, 407.224.4233.

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THE GUIDE

Wine Bars EOLA WINE COMPANY— Order a flight, a glass of

wine or purchase a bottle from the neat little wine shop. Outdoor tables available. www.eolawinecompany.com. 500 E. Central Blvd., 407.481.9100. THE IMPERIAL WINE BAR—A neighborhood bar

specializing in boutique wines, craft beers and gourmet bites in a relaxingly elegant atmosphere. www.imperialwinebar.com. 1800 N. Orange Ave., 407.228.4992. IMPERIUM FOOD & WINE— This wine bar and side-

walk cafe features salads, flat breads and cheese plates. L, D (daily). www.imperiumfoodandwine. com. 606 Market St., Celebration, 407.566.9054. THE WINE ROOM— This swanky wine lounge features

a gourmet deli and wine lockers for serious collectors. Choose from dozens of wines served from one ounce pours to full glasses. www.thewineroomonline.com. 270 S. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407.696.9463. VINES GRILLE & WINE BAR— One of the largest wine

lists in the country, earning accolades from Wine Spectator magazine. Enjoy a glass (or two) while listening to nightly jazz. www.vinesgrille.com. 7533 W. Sand Lake Road, 407.351.1227.

Sporting Events & Venues ATLANTA BRAVES SPRING TRAINING— The Braves

warm up at Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports starting Feb. 25 against the Toronto Blue Jays. They play the Houston Astros Feb. 26, the St. Louis Cardinals Feb. 28 and the Boston Red Sox March 3. www.disneyworld.com. 700 Victory Way, Kissimmee, 407.828.3267. ORLANDO CITY SOCCER CLUB— Orlando’s Major

League Soccer team is led by international soccer star Ricardo Kaka and sports a season full of home games at their brand new stadium, opening this year. www.orlandocitysc.com. 855.ORL.CITY. ORLANDO MAGIC— Orlando’s professional basket-

ball team regulary hosts home games at its home court, the Amway Center, October through April. Don’t miss the Atlanta Hawks (Jan. 4 and Feb 25), The Milwaukee Bucks (Jan. 20), the Golden State Warriors (Jan. 22), Chicago Bulls (Jan. 24), Indiana Pacers (Feb. 1), Toronto Raptors (Feb. 3), Philadelphia 76ers (Feb. 9), San Antonio Spurs (Feb. 15), Portland Trail Blazers (Feb. 23), New York Knicks (March 1), and Miami Heat (March 3). www.nba. com/magic. 400 W. Church St., 407.440.7000. ORLANDO PRIDE— Orlando’s National Women’s

Soccer League hosts an intense lineup of regular season games in their brand-new soccer stadium, opening this year. www.orlandocitysc.com/pride. 855.ORL.CITY. ORLANDO SOLAR BEARS— Orlando’s Eastern Con-

ference Hockey League franchise is an affiliate of the NHL’s Toronto Maple Leafs, and plays a regular season of home games from October through April at Downtown Orlando’s Amway Center. www. orlandosolarbearshockey.com. 400 W. Church St., 407.951.8200. UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA—Watch the UCF

Knights mens and ladies teams play at their home court at CFE Federal Credit Union Arena. www. ucfknights.com. 4000 Central Florida Blvd.

28 W H E R E O R L A N D O I J A N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 2017

THE GUIDE

Shopping+Spas

Disney Springs Town Center

Na Hoku

Disney has recently opened an upscale shopping mall at Disney Springs, adding to its existing retail offerings at the Westside, Marketplace and the Landing. The new outdoor lifestyle center features clean, Mediterranean-Revival architecture, palm trees and outdoor fountains. Some of the retailers include Anthropologie, Everything But Water, Francesca’s, Free People, Johnston & Murphy, Kate Spade New York, Lacoste, Mac, Origins, Sephora, Sugarboo, UNIQLO and Zara. Free parking is available in the lime garage, closest to the Town Center shops, or the orange garage, just a short walk. 1486 Buena Vista Drive, 407.828.3800, www.disneysprings.com

Hawaii’s finest jeweler since 1924, Na Hoku carries a collection of island lifestyle jewelry including the original Hawaiian Slipper and Palm Tree pendants. Artisan designs feature beautiful Tahitian pearls, diamonds and colored gemstones. Disney Springs, 800.260.3912. www.nahoku.com.

Shopping Centers ARTEGON MARKETPLACE— Home to the area’s only

Bass Pro Shops plus Ron Jon Surf Shop, Boot Barn, Gods and Monsters comic-book store, food kiosks and an indoor marketplace housing 165 local artisans and craftspeople selling and demonstrating their products and services. Glow-in-the-dark mini golf, a movie theater and ropes course provide plenty of fun for the kids. M-Sa 11 am – 9 pm, Su 11 am – 7 pm. www.artegonmarketplace.com. 5250 International Drive, 407.351.7718. MARKET STREET IN CELEBRATION— Spend a day ex-

COURTESY WALT DISNEY WORLD; COURTESY NA HOKU

ploring the town that Disney built and perusing the shops along Market and Front streets. Once Upon a Time is a great bet for kids and Market Street Gallery and Soft As Grape provide the perfect souvenir. 605 Market St., Celebration. POINTE ORLANDO— Enjoy a mix of shops, eateries

and entertainment venues at this tropical landscaped complex. You’ll find abundant shopping, dining and entertainment possibilities. Don’t miss Charming Charlie, Chico’s, Tommy Bahama, Tharoo & Co. and Victoria’s Secret. Open daily. www.pointeorlando.com. 9101 International Drive, 407.248.2838. THE FLORIDA MALL— This upscale mall, just east of

International Drive, has 260 specialty shops and major department stores including Macy’s, Dillards, JC Penney and Sears. Other popular shops include American Girl, Aldo, Abercrombie, Apple, Banana Republic, Bebe, Coach, Crayola, Crocs,

Disney, Forever XXI, Guess, Michael Kors, Rolex, Sperry, Stride Rite, United World Soccer and Zara. www.floridamall.com. 8001 S. Orange Blossom Trail, 407.851.7234.

There’s a lot more going on this month. Visit us online:

WINTER PARK’S PARK AVENUE— Stroll

along Park Avenue, the main street of charming Winter Park, where you’ll find upscale stores offering fine jewelry, antiques, books, shoes, cosmetics and gifts as well as the latest fashions. Alfresco cafés, coffee shops, restaurants, wine bars, beauty salons, art galleries and the Morse Museum of Art gift shop round out the selection. www.experienceparkavenue.com. 151 W. Lyman Ave., Winter Park, 407.644.8281.

wheretraveler.com

THE MALL AT MILLENIA— With 150 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, Bebe, Cartier, Chanel, Gucci, Guess, Hugo Boss, Lacoste, Louis Vuitton, Pottery Barn, Sephora, St. John Boutique, Tiffany & Co., Tory Burch and Urban Outfitters. Open daily. www.mallatmillenia.com. 4200 Conroy Road, 407.363.3555. WESTFIELD AT THE ORLANDO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT— First-class shopping awaits travelers

to Orlando International Airport where high-end retailers offer last-minute gifts, fashion accessories, books, music, gadgets and electronics. Featured stores include Finish Line, Johnston & Murphy, Mango, Swarovski, Oakley and InMotion Entertainment. www.orlandoairports.net. Orlando International Airport, 1 Jeff Fuqua Blvd., 407.825.2001. WINTER PARK VILLAGE—An upscale, outdoor shop-

ping center in Winter Park. Retailers include J. Jill, Jos. A. Bank, LOFT, White House/Black Market and Ulta. Another Broken Egg, Ruth’s Chris and the Cheesecake Factory are popular dining options. www.shopwinterparkvillage.net. 400 N. Orlando Ave., 407.571.2700.

Outlet Malls LAKE BUENA VISTA FACTORY STORES— Shop a line-

up of 50 popular designer and name-brand outlets, including the area’s only Old Navy Outlet, plus Express Factory Outlet, LOFT, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Gap, Nike, Guess, Carter’s, OshKosh, Nine West, Samsonite and Under Armour. Save up to 75 percent and often more at select locations. Store-front, plentiful parking, Travelex Currency Exchange, and a free hotel shuttle serving 60 hotels are added conveniences. Open daily. www.lbvfs. com. 15657 State Road 535, 407.238.9301. ORLANDO PREMIUM OUTLETS-INTERNATIONAL DRIVE— Shop 180 incredible designer and

name-brand outlets, and enjoy savings of 25 to 65 percent every day. Stores include Coach, J.Crew, Lacoste, Last Call by Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th and more. Open daily. www. premiumoutlets.com/orlando. 4951 International Drive, 407.352.9600.

EVERY THEME PARK RIDE ends in a gift shop, ensuring you’ll have something special to take home to remember your trip. w w w.wh e re t rave le r. com 29

THE GUIDE

ORLANDO PREMIUM OUTLETS-VINELAND AVENUE— Save 25 to 65 percent every day at 150

designer and name-brand outlets. Shop Barneys New York, Burberry, Coach, Crocs, Gap Outlet, Guess Factory Store, Lululemon, J. Crew, Nike, Salvatore Ferragamo, Tory Burch and more. Parking garage or valet recommended. Open daily. www. premiumoutlets.com/orlando. 8200 Vineland Ave., 407.238.7787.

Apparel, Specialty Stores & Boutiques ARABELLA—A modern boutique with vintage charm

in the heart of Winter Park offering stylish and chic clothing, beautiful jewelry and accessories, plus unique gifts and homewares. 115 E. Morse Blvd., Winter Park, 407.636.8343. FRANK—A Central Florida lifestyle boutique that

carries everything from furniture to clothing, jewelry and gifts. 119 E. Morse Blvd., Winter Park, 407.629.8818. MACRO BABY— For the swankiest baby strollers to

high-end baby clothing and shoes, this superstore for infants is hard to resist. Find everything you need for mom and baby at this specialty store known for its service, knowledgeable sales staff and high-end product lines. Select from strollers, bedding, furniture, bottles, clothing and more from your favorite, most-trusted brands. www.macrobaby.com. 1361 Florida Mall Ave., 877.240.5379. VIOLET CLOVER— The boutique specializes in afford-

able accessories and emerging women’s fashion lines. The very name of the boutique symbolizes the unique items they sell: “the impossible find.” Open daily. www.violetclover.com. 339 S. Park Ave.,. 407.637.2937.

Confectioneries & Food Items M&M’S WORLD— Lose yourself in chocolate heaven

with vast, colorful dispensers of America’s favorite chocolate treat that melts in your mouth, not in your hands. Open daily. www.mymms.com. The Florida Mall, 8001 S. Orange Blossom Trail, 407.850.4000. PETERBROOKE CHOCOLATIER— Get your chocolate

fix at this creative confectionery store. Freshpicked strawberries are hand-dipped daily. Other chocolate products include chocolate potato chips, Nutter Butters and Rice Crispy Treats. Also, don’t miss the chocolate-covered popcorn, which was created by the company’s owner. Open daily. www.peterbrooke.com. 300 S. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407.644.3200. THE ANCIENT OLIVE— The Ancient Olive imports the

freshest extra virgin olive oils to found anywhere in the country, including single varietals and infused selections like blood orange and basil. Sample from their 60-plus stainless steel tanks and ask expert advice on choosing oil and balsamic pairings for dressings and marinades. www.theancientolive. com. 324 N. Park Ave., 321.972.1899. TRADER JOE’S—This specialty grocery store chain is

a fan-favorite for shoppers looking for unique and quality items at discount prices, like the three-buck chuck wines or the oh-so-good cookie butter. www.traderjoes.com. 131 N. Orlando Ave., Winter Park, 407.622.0874; 8323 W. Sand Lake Road.

30 W H E R E O R L A N D O I J A N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 2017

WHOLE FOODS— Whole Foods offers a huge array

of organic produce, meats and a great selection of imported cheeses and wines, perfect for a theme park picnic or an in-room snack. www.wholefoodsmarket.com. 8003 Turkey Lake Road, 407.355.7100

Gifts, Souvenirs & Toys AMERICAN GIRL— Fans will find a complete assort-

ment of the company’s popular historical and contemporary dolls, along with doll outfits, accessories, girl-sized clothing and a variety of bestselling American Girl books. In addition, American Girl fans will be able to enjoy a meal and dessert or celebrate a birthday in the store’s fun and casual 60-seat bistro. www.americangirl.com. The Florida Mall, 8001 S. Orange Blossom Trail, 877.247.5223. DISNEY’S WONDERFUL WORLD OF MEMORIES—

This is a must-stop for scrapbook enthusiasts. Preserve your vacation memories in a book, with pages and stickers, representative of the magical Disney experience. Staff members are on hand to teach new techniques in the latest scrapbook art. Open daily. www.disneysprings.com. Disney Springs Marketplace, Lake Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista, 407.828.3058. LEGO IMAGINATION CENTER— You can easily spend

an afternoon admiring the amazing LEGO sculptures and taking part in the free building and racing experiences. Inside, you’ll find every LEGO shape, color and size you can imagine, plus plenty of kits for making worlds of fantasy. www.disneysprings. com. Disney Springs, 1494 E. Buena Vista Drive, 407.828.0065. MARKET STREET GALLERY— Find beautiful and artful

gifts for friends and for yourself at this downtown Celebration shop. www.marketstreetcelebration. com. 605 Market St., 407.566.1500. MORSE MUSEUM GIFT SHOP— After browsing real

Tiffany lamps, stained glass and pottery at the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, stop by the attached gift store for pieces inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement. High-quality jewelry, sculpture and glassware are some of the beautiful items for sale and all priced well below the real McCoy. www.morsemuseum.org. 445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407.645.5311. TEN THOUSAND VILLAGES— Find fair-trade gift

items, crafts and unique housewares from around the world. www.tenthousandvillages.com. 329 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407.644.8464. THE DOGGIE DOOR— Animal-lovers can pick up

designer collars, upscale dog toys and human gifts, too, at this eclectic gift shop and pet boutique. www.thedoggiedoor.com. 329 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407.644.2969. THEME PARK CONNECTION— It’s true all theme park

rides end in a gift shop, but this out-of-the-way souvenir shop is worth for the trek for truly unique Disney and Universal items at a discount. www. themeparkconnection.com. 2100 Premier Row, 407.284.1934. WORLD OF DISNEY— The largest Disney retail store

in the world is located in the Disney Springs marketplace. Find Disney’s most-beloved characters on almost every imaginable item including toys, candy, clothing and home goods along with a Bibbity Bobbity Boutique for little princesses. www. disneyworld.com. Disney Springs Marketplace, 1780 Buena Vista Drive, 407.828.3058.

Home & Garden CRATE & BARREL— High-quality contemporary

and classic designs for furniture and accessories including lighting, rugs, pillows and prints. You’ll also find more casual pieces like ready-to-assemble furniture, dinnerware and table linens. Open daily. www.crateandbarrel.com. The Mall at Millenia, 4200 Conroy Road, 407.226.8826. IKEA— The Swedish furniture company has come

home to Orlando with fabulous styles and even better prices. www.ikea.com. 4092 Eastgate Drive (near The Mall at Millenia), 407.355.3155.

Jewelry & Watches ALEX AND ANI— Alex and Ani have made it their

mission to share the benefits of positive energy through the unique beauty and symbolism of their jewelry, which are American made and eco-friendly. www.alexandani.com. 356 S. Park Ave., Winter Park, 321.422.0841. BEVERLY HILLS JEWELERS— Diamonds range from a

fraction of a carat to more than 10 carats. You’ll also find fine-colored gems, designer jewelry and Swiss watches. The Florida Mall, 8001 S Orange Blossom Trail, 407.855.9996. CARTIER— The world-famous luxury designer house

offers exquisite jewelry, watches, leather goods, tableware, objets d’art and diamonds. www.cartier. com. The Mall at Millenia, 4200 Conroy Road, 407.248.9886. DELORES JEWELERS— Delores Jewelers has been

providing custom designs, jewelry repairs and watch repairs since 1977. Authorized dealer for Pandora, Alex and Ani, Simon G, Benchmark, Camelot Bridal, Vanna K, Citizen, Seiko, Tissot and Movado. www.deloresjewelers.com. 8001 S. Orange Blossom Trail, 407.812.7143. OMEGA BOUTIQUE— For more than 160 years, the

brand has been synonymous with excellence, innovation and precision. In 1969 it produced the Moon Watch, the one and only watch worn on the moon. www.omegawatches.com. Mall at Millenia, 4200 Conroy Road, 407.363.5151. ORLANDO WATCH COMPANY— This family-run shop

specializes in new and second-hand timepieces and collectible vintage watches. www.orlandowatchco.com. 326 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407.975.9137. PANDORA— Find charm bracelets, rings, necklaces

and earrings – in 14K gold, sterling silver and with semi-precious or precious gems – to match your personality. www.pandora.net. The Florida Mall, 8001 S. Orange Blossom Trail, 407.888.5757; The Mall at Millenia, 4200 Conroy Road, 407.370.3377. Disney Springs, 1676 E. Buena Vista Drive. REYNOLDS & CO. JEWELERS— Distinctive selection

of precious gems and fine jewelry along with a collection of preowned Swiss watches. Family owned since 1974. www.reynoldsjeweler.com. 232 N Park Ave, Winter Park, 407.645.2278. SWATCH— These ever-cool timepieces with the

funky, colorful designs make the perfect Orlando souvenir. www.swatch.com. Florida Mall, 8001 S. Orange Blossom Trail, 407.856.2320. Orlando International Airport.

S H O P P I N G + S PA S

TIFFANY & CO.— There’s nothing like opening the

signature blue box. Find an exquisite selection of fine jewelry, timepieces, crystal, china and sterling silver. www.tiffany.com. The Mall at Millenia, 4200 Conroy Road, 407.351.3133.

Luggage & Sporting Goods AMERICA’S GOLF OUTLET— Find everything you

need for the golf game at this superstore outlet and its sister store Golf Passion, which have a great selection of premium golf equipment, shoes and apparel for men and women. Find closeout deals and last year’s model inventory, take advantage of

the custom fitting services and on-site re-gripping. 5552 International Drive, 407.248.9827. BASS PRO SHOPS— Attention outdoor enthusiasts:

For the best in hunting, marine and fishing gear, head to Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World. It features a variety of outdoor gear as well as an indoor archery shooting lane, 17,000-gallon aquarium, putting green, driving cages and shooting arcade. Open daily. www.basspro.com. Artegon Marketplace, 5156 International Drive, 407.563.5200. EDWIN WATTS GOLF SHOPS— You’ll find everything

you need to enjoy your round of golf at this store.

From clubs and balls to bags and shoes, Edwin Watts stocks it all. The super store on Turkey Lake Road boasts an extensive collection of select items you may not easily find in other golf stores. Open daily. www.ediwinwattsgolf.com. 7501 Turkey Lake Road 407.345.8451. 7024 International Drive, 407.352.2535. MORI LUGGAGE & GIFTS— The Southeast’s leading

retailer of luggage, briefcases, travel accessories and leather goods. Featured brands include Rimowa, Samsonite, Kipling and Tumi. Open daily. www.moriluggage.com. The Florida Mall, 8001 S. Orange Blossom Trail, 407.852.3057. REEBOK— Get discount prices on one of the most

popular brands in shoes and athletic wear at three outlet locations. www.reebok.com. 4950 International Drive, 407.351.9335; 15789 S. Apopka Vineland Road, 407.239.7731. 8200 Vineland Ave., 407.239.2515. RON JON SURF SHOP— The famous Cocoa Beach

surf shop opened this ultra-cool sister store in Orlando. Here you can shop for hip surf wear, swimwear and beach accessories, as well as surf boards and skateboards. The island-themed shop boasts thatched roofs, bamboo details and sandtextured walkways. Sun care products are available here as well—everything you need for a day at the beach. Open daily. www.ronjons.com. Artegon, 5160 International Drive, 407.481.2555. TRACK SHACK— Boasting a proper fitting for each

customer with the best product for their individual need, this athletic apparel store sports a wealth of knowledge and stock of fitness shoes, apparel, training and nutritional products and technology. www.trackshack.com. 1104 N. Mills Ave., 407.898.1313. UNITED WORLD SOCCER— Orlando City Soccer

Club’s Official Soccer Specialty Store, United World Soccer carries a wide range of Orlando City gear as well as jerseys from clubs and countries from around the world, footwear, soccer balls, accessories and more. www.unitedworldsoccer. com. Disney Springs. 407.560.0605; Florida Mall, 407.852.7775.

Shoes BOOT FACTORY—This Nashville outpost offers

guests two free pairs with the purchase of one pair on national brands such as Rocky, Justin, Lucchese, Ariat, Wolverine, J.B Dillon, Masterson, Santa Fe, Sterling River and more. Styles include Western, work, hiking, fashion, motorcycle boots and more. www.twofreeboots.com. 5490 International Drive, 407.903.0317. DSW— Passionate shoe-lovers can shop through

thousands of selections at this giant shoe warehouse. Frequent deliveries are made of the latest styles and brands at bargain prices. Brands include BCBG, Steve Madden, Givenchy and Marc by Marc Jacobs. www.dsw.com. Millenia Center (near the Mall at Millenia), 4021 Conroy Road, 407.903.0832. SHOOOZ— Find trendy shoes for all occasions at this

independently owned boutique in Winter Park that’s known for excellent service. Great shopping and dining next door and across the street as well. 303 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407.647.0110.

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THE GUIDE

Beauty & Spas B INDULGED BY AVEDA— Following Aveda’s philoso-

phy, this new spa nurtures the body and soul by pairing high-performance, natural and botanically derived products with the latest in spa technology. Day guests can order from a menu of spa-inspired cuisine and enjoy the zero-entry pool and fitness center. “Glitzy” services are offered for girls ages 4-12. www.bhotelsandresorts.com. 1905 Hotel Plaza Drive, 407.828.2828. B Hotel & Spa BLUE HARMONY— Couples get particularly

pampered thanks to the luxurious couple’s suite appointed with side-by-side soaking tubs and massage tables. www.wyndhambonnetcreek.com. Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek, 14651 Chelonia Parkway, 407.390.2300. EFOREA BY HILTON—The spa at the Hilton Orlando

provides an environment that enables you to rest, rejuvenate and restore using innovative products and services such as neroli orange blossom, lavender oil massage and seaweed baths to renew skin cells. Products are rich in protein, minerals, vitamins, carotenoids and antioxidants to revitalize the body. www.thehiltonorlando.com. 6001 Destination Parkway. GRAND FLORIDIAN SPA & HEALTH CLUB— Soothe

away tensions with body and water therapies, skincare and massages. A fully-equipped health club is also on site. www.disneyworld.com. Walt Disney World, Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, 4401 Grand Floridian Way, 407.824.2332. L’OCCITANE— Luxury bath, body and home products

based with essential oils extracted from plants local to Provence, France. The store is known for its shea butter products, derived from the African shea nut. Open daily. www.usa.loccitane.com. Disney Springs and The Mall at Millenia, 4200 Conroy Road, Orlando, 407.370.2620. MANDARA SPA— This spa offers some of the most

creative treatments based on both Eastern and Western cultures for your skin and body. Try the four-hand massage with two therapists working on you simultaneously. Open daily. www. swandolphin.com. Walt Disney Dolphin Hotel, 407.934.4772. Loews Portofino Bay Resort, 5601 Universal Blvd., 407.503.1244. MARILYN MONROE SPA— Featuring a vibrant, playful

and relaxing retreat designed in the style of Marilyn’s California home, the spa offers an indulgent menu with more than 100 treatment options including massage, body wraps, facials, and nail services, as well as hair and makeup styling. www. marilynmonroespas.com. Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress, 1 Grand Cypress Blvd., 407.239.1234; 115 N. Orlando Ave., Winter Park. MARRIOTT WORLD CENTER SPA— The resort’s

full-service spa with services like massage and aromatherapy leaves guests feeling rejuvenated. www.marriott.com. 8701 World Center Drive, 407.239.4200. MOKARA— Though the spa offers lots of treatments

for women, particular attention has been paid to pampering the resort’s male guests, who can take full advantage of the men’s steam room and sauna before heading to a sports massage. www.omnihotels.com. Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate, 1500 Masters Blvd., 407.390.6603.

32 W H E R E O R L A N D O I J A N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 2017

Where do you want to go? Find the best of the city

S H O P P I N G + S PA S

ORIGINS— Powered by nature, this Disney Springs

premium beauty boutique offers a vast array of 100 percent natural and certified organic skincare products formulated without parabens, phthalates, propylene glycol, mineral oil, petrolatum or paraffin. www.origins.com. Disney Springs, 1486 Buena Vista Drive, 800.674.4467.

Orlando’s best baby store

RITZ-CARLTON SPA— This three-level,

40,000-square-foot spa features a selection of international treatments taken from the best RitzCarlton spas around the world. Spa, salon and fitness center open daily. www.ritzcarlton.com. 4012 Central Florida Parkway, 407.393.4200. SEPHORA— Guests can try, test and shop for

*Competitors: Babies R Us and BuyBuyBaby.

Orlando Super Store

SIGNATURE NAILS— Located in the Florida Mall next

1361 Florida Mall Avenue, Orlando, FL 32809

407.574.8076

www.macrobaby.com

.00

Off

to Sears, come in for great specials on manicures and pedicures. www.signaturenailsandspas.com. 8001 Orange Blossom Trail, 407.985.3767. SOOTHE— Located in nearly 30 cities across the

When you spend $100.00 or more. One coupon per client. Not valid with other discounts or price matching. No expiration.

MBW216

At MacroBaby, we are always dedicated to offering the best deals to our customers. If you find a better price at one of our competitors*, we will price match immediately! To make it even better, if the product is over $100, we will give you a $5 MacroBaby gift card that can be used towards your next purchase at our store.

thousands of cosmetics and fragrances in addition to splurging on in-store beauty services and technology at the expanded Sephora Beauty Studio. www.sephora.com. Disney Springs, 1486 Buena Vista Drive; Mall at Millenia, 4200 Conroy Road, 407.352.5102; The Florida Mall, 8001 S. Orange Blossom Trail, 407.240.6634.

country, Soothe employs professional massage therapists who come to the client. If you’re staying in a vacation home, or if your own hotel spa is booked, simply request a therapist who can come to you from 8 am - midnight. Choose from 60, 90 or 120 minute massages; tip included. https://www. soothe.com/. Book online, download the app, or call., 888.570.9646. THE SPA AT FOUR SEASONS RESORT— Exclusive

amenities include an experience shower with nine body spray massagers, special services such as the La Floridian body treatment, Sticks & Stones massage, Fire & Ice Facial and Magical Moment makeovers for kids. www.fourseasonsorlando.com. 10100 Dream Tree Blvd., 407.313.7777. TERMINAL GETAWAY SPA— End your vacation on the

Signature

eet

MIGHT

Nails & Hair Salon

right note with a “Last Minute” manicure for $25 in 20 minutes or a speedy, 10-minute chair massage for $19. Deluxe treatments and customized options also available. 7 am to 9 pm. Located in A2, gates 100-129. www.terminalgetawayspa.com. Orlando International Airport, 407.825.2440. THE SPA AT HYATT REGENCY ORLANDO— The city’s

largest hotel also boasts the largest spa, able to service 200 people at a time. A great place to go, especially if your own hotel is booked. Free valet. www.orlando.regency.hyatt.com. 9801 International Drive, 407.284.1234.

(Inside Florida Mall by Sears)

407.985.3767

THE SPA AT SHINGLE CREEK— Relax and rejuvenate

Spa Pedicure & Foot Massage

with a soothing facial or massage. For the ultimate in pampering try the personalized body treatment of an ultimate day spa experience. www.spaatshinglecreek.com. Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel, 9939 Universal Blvd., 407.996.9772.

Shampoo & Hair Cut

THE WALDORF ASTORIA SPA— Luxurious therapies

Classic Pedicure & Manicure

10 off

8001 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, Florida 32809

THE FLORIDA MALL 407-852-3057

WWW.SIGNATURENAILSHAIRSALON.COM Please Note! The Special offers are only valid with regular service price. Not valid with service already special.

featuring local Florida products located inside a soothing environment with a client-centric approach has made the Waldorf famous. You can also enjoy access to the resort’s outdoor pool. www. waldorfastoriaorlando.com. Waldorf Astoria,14200 Bonnet Creek Resort Lane, 407.597.5360.

moriluggage.com

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5/1/14 3:55 PM

THE GUIDE

Dining

Earls Kitchen + Bar

Bulla Gastrobar

360 American Bistro & Bar

Enjoy modern, made-from-scratch cuisine and cocktails in a lively setting decorated with works by local artists. Feast on regional and global specialties, but save room for Earls’ classic chocolate sticky toffee pudding and toasted coconut cake. L, D (daily). 4200 Conroy Road, 407.345.8260, www.earlsrestaurants.com

Inspired by popular tapas restaurants in Spain, the Spanish and Catalan eatery features authentic cuisine including patatas bravas, huevos bulla and buñuelos de bacalao made from fresh, local ingredients in a fun and relaxing ambiance. L, D (daily). 110 S. Orlando Ave., Winter Park, 321.214.6120, www.bullagastrobar.com

Blending traditional French Mediterranean and American flavors, this gastro-pub at the Meliá Orlando Suite Hotel at Celebration offers worldly cuisine and crafted libations enjoyed either poolside or in a casual bistro setting. D (daily). 225 Celebration Place, Celebration, 888.956.3542, www.360bistrobar.com

Catering & Delivery

Disney Area

DOORSTEP DELIVERY— Delivery. If you’re tired

CHEF ART SMITH’S HOMECOMING— Southern. Celebrity Chef Art Smith has

Celebration CAFÉ D’ANTONIO RISTORANTE— Italian. Using a

wood-burning oven, a rotisserie and a grill, Café D’Antonio’s chefs turn out rosemary-roasted chicken and veal piccata, as well as pasta specialties. L, D (daily). www.antoniosonline.com. 691 Front St., Celebration, 407.566.2233. 611 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland, 407.645.5523. COLUMBIA RESTAURANT— Spanish. Flavorful

seafood, paella, the 1905 salad and sangria made tableside are among the favorites at this casual upscale Mediterranean restaurant decorated in handpainted Spanish tile and old family photographs. L, D (daily). www.columbiarestaurant.com. 649 Front St., Celebration, 407.566.1505. LAKESIDE BAR AND GRILL— American. Hearty

cuisine with Florida flair aims to please every diner. Angus burgers and steaks are countered with chopped salads and flat breads. Start with a fresh, specialty cocktail. B, L, D (daily). www.celebrationhotel.com. Bohemian Hotel, 700 Bloom St., Celebration, 407.566.6000.

IL MULINO NEW YORK TRATTORIA— Italian. Traditional Italian cuisine from the

Abruzzi region, served in a dynamic rustic trattoria. Free childcare while parents dine. D (nightly). www.swandolphin.com/ilmulino. Walt Disney World Swan Resort, 1200 Epcot Resorts Blvd., 407.934.1199.

wheretraveler.com

opened Homecoming to pay tribute to his Florida roots with moonshine, fried chicken, freshly baked biscuits and Church Lady Deviled Eggs. www.homecomingkitchen. com. Disney Springs, 1602 E. Buena Vista Drive, 407.560.0100. DEEP BLU SEAFOOD GRILLE— Seafood. Expert chefs

prepare dinners of fresh seafood, sushi and more in an open kitchen. Don’t miss the scallops with local buttermilk grits or the fresh oysters from the raw bar. D (nightly). www.deepbluorlando.com. Wyndham Grand Resort Bonnet Creek, 14651 Chelonia Parkway, 407.390.2300. FLYING FISH— Seafood. A favorite on Disney’s

BoardWalk, Flying Fish has just released an all-new menu in a newly designed dining room. Guests will find a menu of 100 percent sustainable seafood like blue crab, scallops, Chilean seabass, rock shrimp, yellowfin tuna and octopus. For landlubbers, try the Kurobuta pork belly or wagyu filet mignon which melts in your mouth. D (nightly). www.disneyworld.com. 2101 Epcot Resorts Blvd., 407.939.1947. FRONTERA COCINA— Mexican. Chicago’s culinary

giant and Mexican food pioneer Rick Bayless comes to Disney Springs. www.fronteracocina.com. 1486 Buena Vista Drive, 407.560.9197.

LA LUCE— Italian. This modern Italian country

kitchen features thin-crust pizzas, homemade family-style pastas and Italian dishes inspired by family recipes handed down through the generations. D (nightly). www.hiltonbonnetcreek.com. Hilton Bonnet Creek, 14100 Bonnet Creek Resort Lane, 407.597.3600. LE CELLIER—Steakhouse. This Canadian-style

steakhouse is tucked into the castle of the Canada World Showcase. The AAA Canadian beef tenderloin with wild mushroom risotto and truffle-butter sauce is out of this world, along with a side of savory poutine or a bowl of Canadian cheddar cheese soup. L, D (daily). www.disneyworld.com. 200 Epcot Center Drive, 407.824.4231. MORIMOTO ASIA—Asian. Famous Iron Chef Masa-

haru Morimoto brings his popular restaurant to Disney Springs, offering fresh sushi, seafood and Asian cuisine in a spectacular dining room. Order, sit at the bar for hand-crafted drinks and appetizers while you take in the scene. L, D (daily). www. morimotoasia.com. Disney Springs, 1600 E. Buena Vista Drive, 407.939.6686.

DARDEN RESTAURANTS with The Capital Grille, Bahama Breeze, Eddie V’s, LongHorn, Seasons 52, Olive Garden and Yard House is based in Orlando. 34 W H E R E O R L A N D O I J A N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 2017

FROM LEFT: COURTESY EARLS KITCHEN+BAR; BULLA GASTROBAR; 360 AMERICAN BISTRO & BAR

from a day at the attractions, Doorstep Delivery can bring take-out from 300 area restaurants right to your hotel room or vacation rental. Delivery charges apply. B, L, D (daily). www.doorstepdelivery.com.

There’s a lot more going on this month. Visit us online:

DINING

NINE18—American/Steak House. Forbes four-star

rated Nine18 at the Villas Grand Cypress offers a distinct selection of Black Angus steaks, fresh seafood and an extensive 500-bottle wine collection perfect for that exceptional dining experience. D (nightly). www.grandcypress.com/dining. Villas Grand Cypress, 1 N. Jacaranda St., 407.239.4700. PLANET HOLLYWOOD OBSERVATORY— American.

The newly redesigned Planet Hollywood Observatory at Disney Springs will feature a menu designed by Guy Fieri and some of the rarest Hollywood and television memorabilia. L, D (daily). www.planethol-

lywood.com. Disney Springs, 1506 E. Buena Vista Drive, 407.827.7827. RAINFOREST CAFÉ— American. A large, family

restaurant complete with tropical birds, aquariums, interactive animals and lush vegetation, with a big chance for thunderstorms. Pastas, sandwiches, burgers and salads. L, D (daily). www.rainforestcafe. com. Disney Spings, 1800 E. Lake Buena Vista Drive, 407.827.8500. Animal Kingdom, 505 N. Rainforest Road, 407.938.9100. SHULA’S STEAK HOUSE— Steak. Shula’s is dedicated

to the 1972 Miami Dolphin’s “Perfect Season.”

Custom Angus steaks combined with their aging process make up an award-winning “Shula Cut.” Free daycare provided. D (nightly). www.swandolphinrestaurants.com/shulas. Swan and Dolphin Resort, 1500 Epcot Resorts Blvd., 407.934.1362. SPRINKLES— Dessert. Don’t miss the fabulous

assortment of ice cream, like the peanut butter cup or red velvet. Plus, a cupcake ATM. L, D (daily). www.sprinkles.com. Disney Springs, 1676 E. Buena Vista Drive, 888.220.2210. STK—Steakhouse. Don’t expect your father’s steak-

house. With hip locations in Vegas and D.C. and a new outpost at Disney Springs, STK features highend cuts, a raw bar and cool cocktails in a trendy dining room complete with a DJ. L, D (daily). togrp. com/restaurant/stk-orlando. Disney Springs, 1580 Buena Vista Drive, 407.917.7440. TODD ENGLISH’S BLUEZOO— Seafood. Celebrity

chef Todd English draws on coastal cultures to create a seafood menu. Impressive raw bar selection and assortment of fresh fish prepared over an open fire pit. Free babysitting available. D (nightly). www. swandolphin.com. Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel, 1500 Epcot Resorts Blvd., 407.934.1111. VICTORIA & ALBERT’S— Creative/Contemporary.

This fine-dining mecca is the place to celebrate landmark occasions. At the city’s only five-diamond restaurant, Chef Scott Hunnel prepares outstanding seven-course and 10-course meals each night, inspired by his world travels. D (daily). www.disneyworld.com. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, 4401 Floridian Way, 407.939.3862.

Downtown BOHEME RESTAURANT— New American. This

elegant downtown restaurant boasts a fabulous art collection along with a prestigious AAA FourDiamond rating. The cuisine is eclectic nouvelle with French and Pacific Rim influences. B, L, D (daily). www.grandbohemianhotel.com. The Grand Bohemian, 325 S. Orange Ave., 407.313.9000. DANDELION COMMUNITEA— Vegetarian/Vegan.

Inside a funky, bright-green house, this café bills itself as an “urban teahouse with an eco-attitude.” Plenty of organic tea is on tap, but they also make a great sandwich. L, D (M-Sa), L (Su). www. dandelioncommunitea.com. 618 N. Thornton Ave., 407.362.1864. K RESTAURANT WINE BAR— Creative/Contemporary.

James Beard nominee Chef Kevin Fonzo cooks up quite a following at this College Park stronghold. Locals flock for dishes such as sautéed salmon on Peruvian purple potatoes and Florida Pompano. L, D (daily). www.krestaurant.net. 1710 Edgewater Drive, 407.872.2332. LITTLE SAIGON— Vietnamese. Begin by dipping

summer rolls into peanut sauce, then share a bowl of aromatic beef soup. Or, try the pork barbecue over rice vermicelli. L, D (daily). www.littlesaigonrestaurant.com. 1106 E. Colonial Drive, 407.423.8539. THE OSPREY TAVERN—American. Enjoy a warm

atmosphere in the open bar and kitchen adorned with elegant decor and menus featuring raw bar offerings, decadent starters, artisan pizzas and sophisticated entrees. Br (Sa-Su), D (Tu-Sa). www.ospreytavern.com. 4899 New Broad St., 407.960.7700.

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THE GUIDE

DINING

RUSTY SPOON— Farm-to-Table. Three-time James

Beard nominee Chef Kathleen Blake brings farmto-table goodness to downtown Orlando. L (M-F), D (nightly). www.therustyspoon.com. 55 W. Church St., 407.401.8811. SOCO— New Southern. Downtown’s charming

Thornton Park welcomes this Southern contemporary restaurant by Greg Richie, acclaimed chef of Magnolias in Charleston and the Abbey in Atlanta. D (nightly), Br (Su). www.socothorntonpark.com. 629 E. Central Blvd., 407.849.1800.

International Drive A LAND REMEMBERED— Steak. Old Florida charm

abounds with artifacts and photos from the state’s past. Organic steaks from the Harris Ranch are the main feature. Specialties include seared, black-iron sirloin braised with wild mushrooms. D (nightly). www.landrememberedrestaurant.com. Rosen Shingle Creek, 9939 Universal Blvd., 407.996.3663. B.B. KING’S BLUES CLUB— Southern. Southern-style

dining and live music nightly by the B.B. King All Star Band. Signature menu items include fried dill pickles, gumbo, various barbecue and rib dishes, and banana bread pudding to top off your meal. L, D (daily). www.bbkingclubs.com. Pointe Orlando, 9101 International Drive, 407.370.4550. BEN & JERRY’S— Ice Cream. Taste the legendary

ice cream created with non-GMO, Fair Trade ingredients and sustainably sourced packaging. L, D (daily). www.benjerry.com/idrive360. 8457 International Drive, 407.930.6054; 9101 International Drive, 407.286.3353. CAFE 34 ISTANBUL— Mediterranean & Turkish.

Enjoy Mediterranean and Turkish specialties like hummus, Baba ghanoush, gyro, shawarma, kebabs, lamb chops, Turkish coffee and hookah in the heart of I-Drive. L, D (daily). www.cafe34istanbul.com. 8255 S. International Drive, 407.601.7712. CAFÉ TU TU TANGO— Mediterranean. Resembling

an artist’s loft somewhere in Spain, the restaurant invites diners to feast on tapas and other appetizersized items while watching artists work. All artwork is for sale. L, D (daily). www.cafetututango.com. 8625 International Drive, 407.248.2222. CALA BELLA— Italian. Cozy up to the bar and watch

chefs skillfully prepare Italian delights such as orecchiette with pan-seared diver scallops, Tuscan veal chops, or roast chicken and artichoke pizza. D (nightly). www.calabellarestaurant.com. Rosen Shingle Creek, 9939 Universal Blvd., 407.996.3663. DEL FRISCO’S DOUBLE EAGLE STEAK HOUSE—Steak House. This classic American steakhouse specializ-

es in juicy, hand-cut, aged USDA Prime Beef steaks and chops served with irresistible side dishes like lobster mac ‘n’ cheese. D (nightly). www.delfriscos. com. 9150 International Drive, 407.351.5074. EVERGLADES RESTAURANT— Steak/Seafood.

The unusual menu of gator chowder and buffalo tenderloin works well with the Everglades-themed dining room complete with murals depicting nature scenes. D (nightly). www.evergladesrestaurant. com. The Rosen Centre Hotel, 9840 International Drive, 407.996.2385. FIORENZO— Italian Steakhouse. The Hyatt has

blended an authentic Italian restaurant and the tradition of a great American steak house. Features an open kitchen and a pizza oven. D (nightly). www. orlando.regency.hyatt.com. 9801 International Drive, 407.345.4570. 36 W H E R E O R L A N D O I J A N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 2017

FOGO DE CHÃO— Brazilian/Steak. Experience the

Southern Brazilian way to indulge. Meats such as steak, sausage, chicken, lamb and more are roasted over an open fire and presented to the table by roving gauchos. L (M-F), D (daily), Br (Sa-Su). www. fogo.com. 8282 International Drive, 407.370.0711. HASH HOUSE A GO GO— American. Hearty portions

of comfort food favorites such as stacks of flapjacks, BLTs with extra “B,” burgers, fried chicken and meatloaf. The dining room is modern and slick. B, L, D (daily). www.hashhouseagogo.com. 5350 International Drive, 407.370.4646. ICAFE DE PARIS— French Bakery. Enjoy fresh crois-

sants, pastries, signature sandwiches, soups and salads with some of the best brewed coffee in town at this French bakery at I-Drive 360. B, L, D (daily). www.i-drive360.com/icafe-de-paris. I-Drive 360, 8465 International Drive, 407.203.3000. JACK’S PLACE— Steak/Seafood. Steak, seafood and

regional dishes are served in an intimate dining room among Orlando’s largest collection of celebrity-autographed caricatures. Complimentary valet. D (nightly). www.jacksplacerestaurant.com. The Rosen Plaza Hotel, 9700 International Drive, 407.996.1787. MANGO’S TROPICAL CAFE—Treat yourself to Latin

and Caribbean comfort foods and hand-made specialty drinks, including a full variety of exotic mojitos, daiquiris, martinis and cosmos. Live shows nightly. D (nightly). www.mangos.com/orlandohome. 8126 International Drive, 407.673.4422. RA SUSHI—Japanese & Sushi. Lively music, a vibrant

crowd, inventive cocktails and the best sushi this side of Tokyo. Delight in signature rolls and Japanese fusion cuisine. L, D (daily). www.rasushi.com/ orlando. Pointe Orlando, 9101 International Drive, 407.454.5600. SPENCER’S AT THE HILTON— Steak. Specialties are

the Spencer’s cut made with Florida beef and fresh local seafood matched with local produce. Choose from over 20 wines by the glass and scratch-made cocktails. www.thehiltonorlando.com. 6001 Destination Parkway, 407.313.4300. SUGAR FACTORY—American. This upscale eatery

that’s popular in cities like Vegas, New York and Chicago, just opened an Orlando outpost with brunch, burgers, candy-infused cocktails and sundaes. L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). www.sugarfactory.com. 8371 International Drive, 407.270.7082. TAJ MAHAL— Indian. Experience gourmet Indian

cuisine on International Drive with recipes including fresh Naan bread, chicken tikka masala, jalfrezi, vindaloo and vegetarian specialties. D (nightly). www.tajmahalorlando.com. 8554 International Drive, 407.248.6565. TAPA TORO—Spanish. Guests enjoy classic and

contemporary Spanish cuisine, tapas, signature cocktails, imported wine, a paella pit and flamenco dancers. L, D (M-Sa). www.tapatoro.restaurant. 8441 International Drive, 407.226.2929. TAVERNA OPA— Greek. This festive eatery serves

family-style cuisine such as moussaka, grilled fish and spanakopita along with nightly entertainment including belly dancing and traditional music. L, D (daily). www.opaorlando.com. Pointe Orlando, 9101 International Drive, 407.351.8660. THE OCEANAIRE SEAFOOD ROOM— Seafood.

Specialties include Alaskan halibut, Copper River salmon, Maine diver sea scallops, and for landlub-

bers, filet mignon and pork chops. D (nightly). www.theoceanaire.com. Pointe Orlando, 9101 International Drive, 407.363.4801. URBAN TIDE— New American. This dining room

at the Hyatt Regency blends fresh seafood with seasonal Florida flavors. Free valet for visitors of the hotel. L, D (daily). www.orlando.regency.hyatt.com. 9801 International Drive, 407.345.4570.

Kissimmee BLACK ANGUS— Steak. USDA Prime or Choice Beef

cut daily. Large selection of fresh seafood and favorite side dishes. L, D (daily). www.blackangusorlando.com. 7516 W. Irlo Bronson Highway 192, Kissimmee, 407.390.4548. 6231 International Drive, 407.354.3333; 12399 Kissimmee Vineland Road, 407.239.4414. BONEFISH GRILL— Seafood. Well-priced and flavor-

ful seafood dishes are served in this casual yet elegant dining room. D (nightly). www.bonefishgrill. com. 7801 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, 321.677.0103. CHUY’S— Mexican. Fresh Tex-Mex cuisine in a family-

friendly setting. Favorites are the Big As Yo Face burritos and the stuffed avocados, along with the house margarita. D (nightly). www.chuys.com. 8123 International Drive, 407.730.3602. 7913 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, Kissimmee, 407.787.3545.; 170 S. Orlando Ave., Winter Park. OLD HICKORY STEAKHOUSE— Steak/Seafood.

Order the artisan cheese course before enjoying one of the best steaks around. Expansive wine list. Free valet. D (nightly). www.gaylordhotels.com. Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, 6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee, 407.586.1600.

Sand Lake/Restaurant Row DRAGONFLY ROBATA GRILL—Asian. Choose from

creative sushi or perfectly cooked seafood on the robata, which gets up to 1,000 degrees for a crispy outer later and tender middle. Wagyu beef rib eye, sea scallops and braised short ribs with pickled carrots are great options. Happy hour specials. D (nightly). www.dragonflyrestaurants.com/orlandoflorida. 7972 Via Dellagio Way, 407.370.3359. EDDIE V’S—American. This prime steak and seafood

restaurant offers elegant dining inside or chic/ casual seating outside with views of the lake. The seabass will melt in your mouth. D (nightly). www. eddiev.com. 7488 W. Sand Lake Road, 407.355.3011. FLEMING’S— Steak. Indulge with fine aged prime

beef and an extensive wine list featuring 100 wines by the glass at this nationally acclaimed steakhouse. D (Tu-Su). www.flemingssteakhouse.com. 933 N. Orlando Ave., Winter Park, 407.699.9463; 8030 Via Dellagio Way, 407.352.5706. MORTON’S— Steak. Every detail, from elegant serv-

ings of steak and seafood, a vast wine selection and seamless service, makes Morton’s a classic dining destination. D (nightly). www.mortons.com/ orlando. 7600 Dr. Phillips Blvd., 407.248.3485. THE PHARMACY— Enter through an unmarked

elevator door to a 1920s-style speakeasy known for its craft cocktails and farm-to-table cuisine. Order the Pharmacy Manhattan and get a round of small plates for the table. D (Tu-Sa). www.thepharmacyorlando.com. 8060 Via Dellagio Way, 407.985.2972.

RELISH IN Rosen Hotels & Resorts offers a delicious variety of culinary experiences that are sure to satisfy. From the Caribbean to Italian, from whimsical fun to sophisticated elegance, from poolside to nightclub, there are delightful choices for every taste. For more information, please visit RosenHotels.com

Prime steaks and fresh Florida seafood in a finedining ambiance inspired by the Everglades.

9840 International Dr. 407.996.8551

Feast on a fusion of Cuban and Caribbean flavors in a tropical indoor-outdoor poolside atmosphere. Our signature steakhouse offering the finest all-natural Five Diamond Black Angus beef from Harris Ranch.

9939 Universal Blvd. 407.996.3663

Escape to Tuscany at our Italian bistro with a piano bar, serving perfect pastas and fresh seafood.

Sizzling prime steaks and fresh seafood among the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest collection of celebrity caricatures.

9700 International Dr. 407.996.1787

A state-of-the-art entertainment venue with dancing, dining, two fullservice bars, VIP lounge and an adjacent pool deck.

6327 International Dr. 407.352.1607

Catch dinner and a show as our teppanyaki chefs play with fire right before your eyes for a deliciously fresh and fun culinary experience.

THE GUIDE

ROCCO’S TACOS— Contemporary Mexican. Rocco’s

Tacos offers a true taste of Mexico within a fun casual environment overlooking the lake. L, D (daily), Br (Sa-Su). www.roccostacos.com. 7488 W. Sand Lake Road, 407. 226.0550. ROY’S ORLANDO— Fusion. European techniques

with Asian ingredients create a memorable fusion menu with Hawaiian highlights. Favorites include Japanese-style misoyaki butterfish and kabayaki seared sea scallops with wasabi sweet ginger butter. D (nightly). www.roysrestaurant.com. 7760 W. Sand Lake Road, 407.352.4844. RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE— Steak. This well-

known steakhouse that began in New Orleans has made a presence for itself in Orlando. As always, steaks are to die for and service is top-notch. D (nightly). www.ruthschris.com. 610 N. Orlando Ave., Winter Park, 407.622.2444; 7501 W. Sand Lake Road, 407.226.3900. SEASONS 52— New American. Flavorful, creative,

American meals made with seasonal ingredients. Small plates are perfect for sharing or full entrees available. L, D (daily). www.seasons52.com. 7700 W. Sand Lake Road, 407.354.5212. SLATE— Modern American. Start with the pimento

cheese hushpuppies with jalapeno jelly then choose between the snapper with spoonbread or the savory short ribs. Br (Sa-Su), L (M-F), D (nightly). www.slateorlando.com. 8323 Sand Lake Road, 407.500.7528. URBAIN 40—American/European. This American

brasserie and cocktail lounge comes with a ‘40s throwback and a touch of French flair, thanks to Chef Jean Stephane Poinard. Live jazz nightly. L, D (daily). www.urbain40.com. 8000 Via Dellagio Way, 407.872.2640.

South A-AKI SUSHI—Japanese. Order the Mexican Roll

with spicy cooked shrimp or Crunch Seaweed Roll or have an entrée made to order from the hibachi table. Located near The Florida Mall. L, D (daily). www.a-akisushi.com. 1400 Sand Lake Road, 407.888.9545. HEMISPHERE RESTAURANT— Creative/Contemporary. Consider this upscale eatery at the Hyatt

inside the Orlando International Airport instead of the food court. Enjoy fine dining in its 9th-floor location with runway views and a locally sourced menu. D (daily). www.orlandoairport.hyatt.com. 9300 Airport Blvd., 407.825.1234. MIKADO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE—Japanese & Sushi. Enjoy watching while your dinner is pre-

pared Teppanyaki style at the Mikado Japanese Steakhouse. Located in the Orlando World Center Marriott, this classic Japanese restaurant is perfect for families and groups. D (nightly). www.marriott. com. Orlando World Center Marriott , 8701 World Center Drive, 407.238.8664. NORMAN’S— Creative/Contemporary. New World

Cuisine pioneer and James Beard Award winner Norman Van Aken is the mastermind behind this spectacular menu that melds the flavors of Latin America, the Caribbean, the U.S. and the Far East. D (nightly). www.normans.com. Ritz-Carlton Grande Lakes, 4102 Central Florida Parkway, 407.393.4333.

38 W H E R E O R L A N D O I J A N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 2017

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Put the power of Where® in the palm of your hand. Our Where Traveler City Guide app gives you instant access to thousands of hand-picked recommendations for things to do and places to go in destinations all over the world. Download it today for iPhone and Android.

DINING

SIRO— Italian. Located inside the Orlando Marriott

World Center, this urban Italian restaurant offers genuine Italian food with rustic flair. Handmade pasta and pizza rule the menu. D (daily). www. siroorlando.com. Orlando Marriott World Center, 8701 World Center Drive, 407.238.8619.

Universal/City Walk THE COWFISH— Contemporary Japanese Fusion.

This sushi burger bar has quickly won over the visitors and the locals with its innovative sushi rolls, cool burgers and even “Burgushi.” Fun menu picks include a full-pound beef burger with peanut butter and fried bananas, blackened tuna nachos and the marshmallow crisp milkshake. L, D (M-Sa). www. universalorlando.com. CityWalk, 6000 Universal Blvd., 407.363.8000. EMERIL’S ORLANDO— New Southern. The New

Orleans chef with his Cajun-Creole cooking is still on top. Start with the barbecue shrimp, followed by the andouille-crusted Texas redfish. For dessert, try the banana cream pie piled high. If you can’t get a table, try for a seat at the bar. L, D (daily). www. emerilsrestaurants.com/emerils-orlando. Universal CityWalk, 6000 Universal Blvd., 407.224.2424. JIMMY BUFFETT’S MARGARITAVILLE— American.

Jimmy’s music sets the mood and the ambience is straight out of Key West. Live music nightly. L, D (daily). www.margaritavilleorlando.com. Universal CityWalk, 6000 Universal Blvd., 407.224.2155. TABOON BISTRO— Mediterranean. Just outside the

gates of Universal, you’ll find this authentic Mediterranean restaurant, serving baked daily on volcanic rocks, specialty lamb chops, chicken shawarma and halal meats along with freshly baked desserts. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Sa). www.taboonbistro.com. 5911 Turkey Lake Road, Suite 102, 407.270.4848. THE PALM RESTAURANT— Steak. Slide into a booth

and conduct a business dinner or join the evening crowd for fun. Traditionally known for prime-aged steak and jumbo lobsters, the Palm also boasts half-and-half creamed spinach and New York-style cheesecake. D (nightly). www.thepalm.com. Hard Rock Hotel, 5800 Universal Blvd., 407.503.7256. TOOTHSOME CHOCOLATE EMPORIUM—American Dessert. This mega dessert emporium and candy

store at Universal’s CityWalk also offers savory dishes and all-day brunch. Open 11 am to 11 pm daily. www.universalorlando.com. 6000 Universal Blvd., 407.363.8000. VIVO ITALIAN KITCHEN— Italian. Guests enjoy

classic Italian dishes with a modern twist and can even watch chefs at work in the kitchen creating pasta, baking bread or making sauces from scratch. D (daily). www.universalorlando.com. Universal CityWalk, 6000 Universal Blvd., 407.224.2318.

Winter Park BOSPHOROUS TURKISH CUISINE— Mediterranean.

Turkish specialties, from frothy tarma (whipped caviar) to savory stuffed pastries, draw quite a following. L, D (daily). www.bosphorousrestaurant. com. 108 S Park Ave., Winter Park, 407.644.8609; 7600 Dr. Phillips Blvd., 407.352.6766. THE BRIARPATCH—American. This quaint little

eatery is a great spot to grab breakfast or lunch before a shopping day. Save room for homemade ice cream or the decadent slices of layer cake. B, L (daily). www.thebriarpatchrestaurant.com. 252 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407.628.8651. w w w.wh e re t rave le r. com 39

THE GUIDE

DINING

COCINA 214— Tex-Mex. The menu combines bold

flavors with fresh, local ingredients to create contemporary Tex-Mex. Try the brisket tacos, corn-crusted Mahi or truffle and mushroom quesadillas. Or, take a seat at the bar and enjoy one of their 29 draft Mexican beers. L, D (daily). www. cocina214.com. 151 E. Welbourne Ave., Winter Park, 407.790.7997. KILWINS WINTER PARK— Ice Cream. Since 1947,

Kilwins has been creating the freshest treats and ice cream, from caramel corn and fudge to dozens of different ice cream flavors and homemade waffle cones. L, D (daily). www.kilwins.com. 122 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407.622.6292

THE

BEST COFFEE IN TOWN.

HAMILTON’S KITCHEN— New Southern. This new

spot at the Alfond Inn welcomes friends and families to enjoy traditional Southern cooking in a rustic, yet modern atmosphere. B, L, D (daily). www.thealfondinn.com. 300 E. New England Ave., Winter Park, 407.998.8090. HILLSTONE— American. A picturesque setting on

the lake with inviting adirondack chairs and a dock. The dining room serves well-executed steaks, seafood and salads. L, D (daily). www.hillstone.com. 215 S. Orlando Ave., Winter Park, 407.740.4005. LUMA ON PARK— New American. Creativity is on the

menu with dishes such as citrus-cured sturgeon with grapefruit and pink peppercorns and duck breast with turnip-parsnip gratin. The food is excellently served in an ultra-modern space with cutting-edge décor. L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). www. lumaonpark.com. 290 S. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407.599.4111. PARIS BISTRO— French. Mom-and-pop owners

prepare the French foods of their homeland in this tiny and informal space. Escargot topped with garlicky herbs, beef Burgundy and pork tenderloin in a creamy mustard and white wine sauce draw a regular crowd. B (Sa-Su), L, D (Tu-Su). www. parisbistroparkave.com. 216 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407.671.4424. PRATO— Modern Italian. Prato celebrates Italy’s rich

culinary heritage by preparing Italian classics with modern techniques and seasonal ingredients in an inviting contemporary space. L (W-Su), D (nightly). www.prato-wp.com. 124 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407.626.0050. SHAKE SHACK— Burgers. With locations in

Winter Park and I-Drive 360, this celebrated fast-casual burger and hotdog joint features unique local flavors in both decor and menu. L, D (daily). www.shakeshack.com. 119 N. Orlando Ave., 321.203.5130; 8359 International Drive, 407.205.0362. THE RAVENOUS PIG— New American. This nationally

renowned gastropub serves gourmet pub fare, raw bar delicacies and pasta. The menu changes regularly, with ingredients reflecting the season. A careful collection of micro-brewed beers are on tap in addition to an extensive wine list. L, D (daily). www.theravenouspig.com. 565 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, 321.280.4200. UMI—Japanese Fusion. Serving up some of the

freshest sushi and sashimi in the area, Umi specializes in Japanese fusion cuisine featuring Robata charcoal grilled meats, seafood and vegetables. L, D (daily). www.umiwinterpark.com. 525 S. Park Avenue, Winter Park, 407.960.3993.

40 W H E R E O R L A N D O I J A N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 2017

COFFEE. CREPES. SMOOTHIES. FRAPPES. BEER.WINE.COCKTAIL. SANDWICHES. FRESH BAKERY.

8465 INTERNATIONAL DR. ORLANDO, FL 32819 • 407-203-3000

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

TASTE OF THE CITY

Hash House A Go Go

Farm foods aren’t just for breakfast anymore. That’s the philosophy behind the “Twisted Farm Food” at Hash House A Go Go., where the portions are generous and the times are fun. Chicken and waffles for dinner? Of course! The winner of 20 “Best Of ” awards in Las Vegas, the restaurant has been featured on the Travel Channel’s “Man v Food” and the Food Channel. Specialties include farm scrambles & benedicts, giant flapjacks, and the famous stuffed burgers. Open for Brunch and Dinner daily. Open Sunday through Thursday 8am to 10pm, Friday and Saturday 8am to 11pm. 5350 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819 407.370.4646, www.hashhouseagogo.com

Sugarcanes Rum Bar & Lounge

Orlando’s newest upscale restaurant and lounge, Sugarcanes offers an island-driven, chef inspired menu, heavily rooted in the tastes of Jamaica. We bring you the best rums in the world, the rhythms of the tropics and even an opportunity to indulge in a good cigar. A comfortable, chic and undisputedly unique experience for those who desire something beyond the status quo. The restaurant uniquely offers rum/food parings as well as rum flight service- perfect for aspiring connoisseurs and aficionados alike. The Sugarcanes outdoor patio is the perfect place to marry your rum with a great cigar. SundayBrunch, Hospitality Nights, Timeshare Tuesdays, Thursday Business Mixers. Speed Dating, Live Reggae Bands, DJs and more! 8255 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819 407.704.1008, www.sugarcanesrumbar.com

Taj Mahal Great Indian

Taj Mahal offers a unique experience in truly gourmet Indian Cuisine. Centrally located in the heart of the tourist district on International Drive. Our recipes are special with emphasis on fresh food, with fresh ingredients and home-made spices. Naans are fresh to the minute. See our menu and pictures on tajmahalorlando.com. No one beats the taste of our chicken tikka masala, jalfrezi, vindaloo and vegetarian specialties. Walk to Taj Mahal from most convention center area hotels 8554 International Drive Orlando, FL 32819 407.248.6565, www.tajmahalorlando.com

Palm Restaurant

At The Palm, our philosophy is simple: Treat guests like family, serve great food, and always exceed expectations. That philosophy was born in 1926, when Pio Bozzi and John Ganzi opened the first Palm in New York City. From day one, Pio and John shared their commitment to quality and generosity of spirit with every guest who walked through their doors. What began as a restaurant became a legend–a place to not only enjoy an excellent meal but also catch up with old friends, meet new ones, close business deals, and celebrate family milestones. Located in the lobby of the Hard Rock Hotel, complimentary parking provided. 5800 Universal Blvd., 407-503-7256 www.thepalm.com w w w.wheretravel er.c o m 41

THE GUIDE

Navigate

Orlando International Airport Located 30 minutes east of the resort areas, Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the busiest airports in the country with 800 flights per day on over 40 airlines. Non-stop service is offered to 76 U.S. destinations as well as 49 international destinations. A variety of traveler services are available at the airport, from an on-site Hyatt Regency hotel, themepark stores and restaurants to a large U.S. Customs and Border Protection facility. 1 Jeff Fuqua Blvd., 407.825.2001, www.orlandoairports.net

EXTRA HANDS— Hire a trusted babysitter during

your vacation, whether it’s help at the theme park or in-room service while you enjoy dinner out. www.vacationsitterfl.com. KID’S NITE OUT— This well-respected company

provides professional childcare (and pet sitting), at all hotels, resorts and vacation homes. www. kidsniteout.com. 407.828.0920.

Getting Around 511— Call 511 from a cell phone or go online for

information on weather, traffic and construction on interstates and the turnpike. www.fl511.com. EXECUCAR— Book a private car to/from the airport,

business meeting or anywhere else around town. www.execucar.com. 800.410.4444. I-RIDE TROLLEY— Enclosed and air-conditioned, the

trolley stops at shops, restaurants, attractions and hotels along International Drive. $2. www.iridetrolley.com. 3718 L B McLeod Road, 407.248.9590. LAKE BUENA FACTORY STORES SHUTTLE—The Lake

Buena Vista Factory Stores offers a free shopping shuttle to and from 60 area participating hotels to its outlet mall. The mall features more than 50 outlets including Old Navy, Guess, Carters, Gap, LOFT, Samsonite and Nike. www.lbvfs.com. 15657 S. Apopka Vineland Road, 407.363.1093.

LYNX BUS SYSTEM— Look for “paw

print” bus stop signs. Fare $2; transfers free. Exact change required. www.golynx.com. Various stops, 407.841.5969.

There’s a lot more going on this month. Visit us online:

wheretraveler.com

MEARS TRANSPORTATION— Go in style

with a limo or town car or hire a tour bus. Cabs are also available. Multiple vehicle choices ensure you get a ride tailored to your transportation needs. www.mearstransportation.com. 407.423.5566. SUNRAIL—All aboard the white and yellow train!

Central Florida’s new commuter rail has 12 stops from Sand Lake Road north to DeBary, including stops at popular tourist destinations downtown, in Winter Park and Sanford. Fares starting at just $1. www.sunrail.com. SUPERSHUTTLE— Providing affordable airport trans-

portation to or from your home, office or hotel, 24/7. www.supershuttle.com. 800.258.3826. TAXIS— Cabs are plentiful at theme parks, hotels and

major restaurants and attractions. Diamond Cab Co. 407.523.3333. Yellow Cab: 407.422.2222. UBER— Ubers are plentiful in Orlando, from down-

town to the theme parks, restaurants and resort areas, however the service is not permitted for airport pickups at this time. Just download the Uber app on your smart phone and link to your Pay Pal account for cash-free transactions with no tipping. www.uber.com.

Health Services CENTRA CARE— No appointment, walk-in

clinic affiliated with Florida Hospital with four area locations near the major attractions. Provides hotel and resort transportation for visitor convenience. www.centracare.org. 407.200.CARE.

DR. P. PHILLIPS HOSPITAL, ORLANDO HEALTH—

State-of-the-art medical facility with 24-hour emergency department. Conveniently located between Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World and near SeaWorld. www.orlandohealth.com/drpphillipshospital. 9400 Turkey Lake Road, 407.351.8500. THE MEDICAL CONCIERGE— Receive medical

care from a doctor, dentist or specialist from the comfort of your hotel room or vacation home, both day or night. www.themedicalconcierge.com. 6000 Turkey Lake Road, 855.633.5252.

Neighborhoods CELEBRATION— See the picturesque town that

Disney built with wraparound porches, a charming downtown, parks, walking trails and boardwalks. www.celebration.fl.us. 690 Celebration Ave., 407.566.1200. DOWNTOWN ORLANDO/THORNTON PARK— The

past few years have seen a resurgence in the city’s core, including nightclubs, restaurants, hotels and galleries. Highlights include the Arts District, Thornton Park, Lake Eola, Amway Center, Church

CASK & LARDER, a local Orlando restaurant with award-winning chefs, has just opened inside the Orlando International Airport for sit-down or carry-out service. 42 W H E R E O R L A N D O I J A N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 2017

COURTESY ORLANDO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Child Care Services

N A V I G AT E

Street and the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. www.downtownorlando.com. 201 S. Orange Ave.. EATONVILLE— One of the country’s first black

municipalities and home to Harlem Renaissance author Zora Neale Hurston. www.townofeatonville. org. 207 E. Kennedy Blvd. KISSIMMEE— Once known for agriculture, Kissim-

mee is now a major tourism hub. Highlights include Old Town, the annual rodeo, Lake Tohopekaliga and entertainment along Highway 192. www.experiencekissimmee.com. 101 Church St., Kissimmee. MAITLAND— Known for its natural beauty and thriv-

ing arts scene featuring the Maitland Arts Center and numerous lakes. www.itsmymaitland.com. 1776 Independence Lane. MILLS 50—A centrally-located, unpretentious,

urban district with a vibrant, culturally diverse, progressively minded and eclectic mix of artists, restaurants, businesses, specialty shops, markets, neighborhoods and residents. www.mills50.org/. 1200 Weber St., 407.421.9005. MOUNT DORA— This pretty New England-style

city is set among lakes and hills, and its historic downtown is home to antique shops, galleries and restaurants. www.mountdora.com. 341 Alexander St. SANFORD— A quaint downtown district with old-

fashioned lampposts and red-brick buildings housing shops and cafés. Don’t miss the zoo and

the Lake Monroe waterfront. www.sanfordfl.gov. 300 N. Park Ave., Sanford, 407.688.5000. WINDERMERE— Home to a charming downtown, a

chain of lakes and prestigious gated communities like Isleworth and Bay Hill. www.town.windermere. fl.us. 407.876.2563. WINTER GARDEN— West of Orlando, this is a

community of older, wood-frame homes and a downtown district highlighted by red-brick streets, massive oaks and an old railroad depot along with Plant Street Market with great local food and a brewery. www.cwgdn.com. 300 W. Plant St., Winter Garden 407.656.4111. WINTER PARK— This upscale enclave is known for

its main street, Park Avenue, which is lined with fashionable boutiques and restaurants. Other highlights include Rollins College, Hannibal Square and the Morse museum. www.winterpark.org. 151 W. Lyman Ave., Winter Park, 407.644.8281.

to shops and restaurants and enjoy community amenities such as swimming pools, boardwalks, bike paths and the lakefront. www.mirasolcondos. com. 501 Mirasol Circle, Celebration, 407.566.2800.

Visitor Services DOWNTOWN ORLANDO INFORMATION CENTER—

Provides information on events, venues, parking, transportation and more with interactive kiosks, digital message boards and informative personnel. www.downtownorlando.com. 201 S. Orange Ave., 407.246.2555. ORANGE COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER— One of

the largest meeting destinations in the country boasts 2 million square feet of convention space. www.occc.net. North Concourse, 9400 Universal Blvd.; South Concourse, 9899 International Drive; West Concourse, 9800 International Drive, 407.685.9800. ORLANDO’S OFFICIAL VISITOR CENTER— Their

Real Estate ENCORE/REUNION— Make the town of Reunion

home, or home away from home. Located near Central Florida’s biggest attractions, choose from homes built with families in mind, featuring up to 11 bedrooms. Enjoy amenities such as golf, fitness areas, kids’ program, dining and an exclusive club. www.theencoreclub.com. 407.396.9000. MIRASOL—This Celebration condominium provides

a convenient home for tourists and residents. Walk

courteous, multilingual staff will help you get directions, exchange currency, purchase discount attraction tickets and check last-minute hotel room availability. www.visitorlando.com. 8723 International Drive, 407.363.5872. EXPERIENCE KISSIMMEE— Pick up free resources

and get travel advice and discount tickets for theme parks and Kissimmee attractions. www. experiencekissimmee.com. 4155 W. Vine St., Kissimmee, 407.569.4800.

RE PR DU IC CE ES D !

RESORT STYLE RESIDENCES FROM THE LOW $200s

SOLD

UNIT 515-201 2BR/2BA w/Versatile Enclosed Den. Second floor condo with convenient elevator access. Enjoy the gorgeous water view from your screened patio. The prime location is adjacent to the walking path leading to downtown Celebration. All appliances included. This home is move-in ready, upgrade options are available. $317,000 UNIT 512-202 2BR/2BA w/Attached Garage. Second floor townhome style condo. Large open floor plan w/ spacious kitchen, breakfast nook, living an dining room. This home has a beautiful canal view from the extra large screened patio, master bedroom, & living room. Enjoy a second screened patio located off the breakfast nook. All appliances included, upgrade options available. $390,000 UNIT 501-305 2BR/2BA with office nook. Split plan with separate dining room and breakfast bar in kitchen. View of lush nature preserve from screened veranda. The kitchen and bathrooms have new wood cabinets and granite. The prime location of this home has convenient elevator service. $310,000. UNIT 501-318 1BR/1.5BA with den. Spacious layout with separate dining room and eat-in kitchen. View of resortstyle pool from screened veranda. The prime location of this home has convenient elevator service. $245,000

Large ﬂoor plans | Villas with attached garages | Resort-style living Here, the vacation never ends. Visit a luxurious day spa, relax in comfortable club facilities or spend a sunny afternoon beside a stunning swimming pool. Live a short walk from Downtown Celebration — and a million miles from the rest of the world. Additional move-in ready homes available... Valencia

#510-102

1597SF/2BR/2BA

$338,000

Amelia

#501-404

1051SF/1BR/1.5BA

$218,500

Viscaya

#504-103

2161SF/3BR/3BA

SOLD

Sales Villa Open Daily Call or stop by 407.566.8970 502 Mirasol Circle, Suite #102 Celebration, FL

MirasolCondos.com mirasolsales@lpsi.com All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted. Oral representations cannot be relied upon as correctly stating representations of the seller. For correct representations, reference should be made to the purchase agreement.

w w w.wh e re t rave le r. com 43

THE GUIDE

MAP 1 DOWNTOWN ORLANDO B

Lucerne Terrace

America Franklin Ln

Hughey Av

Atla nta Av

Dunbar Ct

Avondale Av

Carter

Lake Lucerne Luc erne Circ le

Parramore Ave

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44 W H E R E O R L A N D O I J A N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 2017

Mills Ave

Hery Ave

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Hyer Ave

Daniels Ave

Summerlin Ave

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Ponce d e Leon P l Orlando Regional Medical Center

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Cathcart Ave

Hillman Ave

Broadway Ave

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Cherokee Dr

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6 South St

Anderson

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408

Av Orange

Anderson Ct

Delaney Av

10A

408

Anderson

Mariposa

527

Grace

82C

Dr. Phillips Center City for Performing Arts Hall

Ro sa lin d

Long Carter

Visitor Center

Eola Dr

Boone Av

82C

Anderson

Wall

South

Hughey Pl

Washington

Lake Av

Bryan Av

Division Av

Pharr Av

McDevitt

Chapman Ct

Hicks Av

Parramore Ave

South

THORNTON PARK

Walt Disney Amphitheatre

DOWNTOWNJackson ORLANDO

Orlando Magic

Livingston St

Lake Eola

Liberity Av

Church Amway Center

Eola Pkwy

Delaney Av

Pine

6 Camping World Stadium

Magnolia Av

Central Blvd

Jackson

Magnolia Av

Washington

Harwood St

Ridgewood St

Rosalind Av

Hughey Av

Garland Av

Washington

526

Ossie

Jefferson

Palmetto Av

526

527

E Amelia St

526

Court Av

Beggs Av

Chatham Av

Jefferson

Robinson

Orange Av

Jefferson

Parramore Av

526

Broadway Ct

Robinson

Magnolia Av

83B

LAKE EOLA HEIGHTS

Hibiscus Ct

Orange County Courthouse

State Ln

Pittman

University of Central Florida Downtown Campus

Hillcrest

ind sal Ro

Livingston

Gurtrude Av

Colonial Dr

Court Av

Alexander Pl

Bob Carr Performing Arts Center

Woodward

Amelia

Lynx Central Station

Court Av

Park Lake

Zelma

Orange Av

Concord Garland Av

Amelia

527

Hughey Av

Revere Av

Concord

Colonial Dr

Lake Dot

Cheney Pl

Lexington Av

ot Circ Edgewater Dr le

Colonial Dr

Putnam Av

Peachtree

e Dot C Lak irc le

Parramore Av

Lake Concord

La k

Putnam Av

Boardman

C Garlan d Av

Interstate

State Highway

Information

Exits

University/ College

Bus Station

Theater

Parking

Place of Interest F

MAPS

MAP 2 INTERNATIONAL DR. A

MAP 3 SPACE COAST B

Canaveral National Seashore

231

Indian River Lagoon

Arther Dunn Airpark

220

TITUSVILLE

405

St. Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Wildlife Refuge 50 215

Launch Complex 39

Indian John F. Kennedy River Space Center N.A.S.A

405 r

al D Intern atio n

42A University of Central Florida 520 -Brevard

I-Drive 360: Orlando Eye

Space Coast Regional Airport

407 528

205 42B 45 524

202 201

46 528 49

Merritt Island Airport

Brevard Zoo

Patrick Air Force Base

191 509 404 3

Brevard Community College- Melbourne

n Way Orange County Convention Center West Building

Conventio

Lake 95 Washington 511

Orange County Convention Center North/South Building

Beachline

Interstate

U.S. Highway

State Highway

180

176 516

A1A

Valkaria Airport

Exits

GRANT 507

Landmark University/ College 7

MALABAR

173 514

PALM BAY

INDIALANTIC MELBOURNE MELBOURNE BEACH

192

US Air Force Malabar Annex 509

Place of Interest

SeaWorld Aquatica Discovery Cove

SATELLITE BEACH INDIAN HARBOUR BEACH

Melbourne International Airport

WEST MELBOURNE

LEGEND

508

180

513

518

185 509 5 mi 5 km

A1A

419

COCOA BEACH

502

Space Coast Staduim

Dr. Phillips Hospital

52 A1A

520 519

195

Lake Winder

MERRITT CAPE CANAVERAL COCOA ISLAND

ROCKLEDGE

Turkey Lake Rd

Cape Canaveral Air Force Station

Wuesthoff Medical Center

Banana River

PORT ST. JOHN

208

Lake Poinsett

532

406

212 Beach Line Expwy

Atlantic Ocean

Blackpoint Wildlife Drive Park

223

A1A

Sebastian River Medical Center

Sebastian Municipal Airport

SEBASTIAN 7

505 512

156 512

510

w w w.wh e re t ravel e r. com 45

Bay Lake

535

d Rd an 535

Grand

526

Big Sand Lake

435

City Walk Universal Studios Islands of Adventure

Conroy Windermere Rd

Bay Hill Club & Lodge

Lake Sheen

Lake Tibet

439

Lake Down

Metrowest

st Expy East-We

Silver Star Rd

435

439

Bee Line Expy

I-Drive 360

Re ag an

Tp ke

Beach Line

Shingle Creek

416

Ed ge w

424

Amway Center

W Washington St

526

Morse Museum of American Art

E South St

Sand Lake Rd

W Taft Vineland Rd

W Landstreet Rd

Mccoy Rd Jetport Dr

Lake Conway

E Landstreet Rd

527

Pershing Ave

506

Orlando Executive Airport

East-West Expy

Orlando Fashion Square Mall

Virginia Dr

Corrine Dr

Orlando Museum of Art

Mead Gardens

for the Performing Arts 527

Hoffner Ave

Gatlin Ave

a Ave Alom

436

552

Beach Line

Kennedy Space Center

Lake Dr

Lake Howell

WINTER PARK

E Robinson St

81 W Kaley St

rtin Ma

Lake Maitland

82 Dr. Phillips Center

Florida Mall Anderson Expy

441

427

MAITLAND

d Blv

87 W Fairbanks Ave

W Holden Ave

Centra l Flor ida Pky

TOLL 528

482

W Oak Ridge Rd

423

438

W Smith St

E Altamonte Dr

ALTAMONTE SPRINGS

Dubsdread

rD Lake r Fairview

90 Maitland

Rd Lee

Kennedy Blvd

414

ORLANDO W Gore St

438

423

Mall at Millenia Premium Outlets

Sand Lake Rd

al Dr ion

arden

roy Rd Con

Lb Mcle

Vineland Rd

435

441

W Colonial Dr

SeaWorld, Discovery Cove, 71 Aquatica

431

G ter Win Old

TOLL 408

Clarco na Ocoee Rd

Maitland Blvd

g Pky oun S John Y

Tranquilo

Win ter G ard en Vin el

R se ha

Lake Butler

ims Rd Ad M

White Rd

OCOEE

Wurst Rd

WINDERMERE

439

TOLL 429

W Mccormick Rd

Beggs Rd

424

Bear Lake

Semoran Blv d

S Ferncreek Ave

Seven Seas Lagoon

Disney-Magic Kingdom

Lake Speer

TOLL

438

437

N Thompson

SO ran ge Blo sso m

436

Palm Springs Dr

ve S Orange A

Orlando International Airport

Tradeport Dr

429

Orange County National

545

Tilden Rd

Sto neyWest bro ky ok est P W

Ronald Reagan Tpke

W Colonial Dr

Stoneybrook

545

Johns Lake

E Story Rd

t St

WINTER GARDEN

St nt Pla

E Plan

S Binion Rd

l na Ro

Lake Apopka

Ap op

Lakeville Rd

437

Clarke Rd

Sheeler Ave

E Semoran Blvd

N Hiawassee Rd

4 APOPKA

Good Homes Rd

N Pine Hills Rd

Douglas Ave S Wymore Rd

N Wekiwa Spri

N Powers Dr

Oxford Rd

N Park Ave

S Apopka Vineland Rd

Avalon Rd

Mercy Dr

Hempel Ave

Oco ee Ap opk a Rd

St Main

S Conway Rd

Turkey Lake Rd Interna t

S Kirkman Rd

Orlando Ave

Bear Lake Rd

Rose Ave

46 W H E R E O R L A N D O I J A N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 2017 N John Young Pky

S Ivey Ln

ter Western Beltway ebs el W Dani

Bruton Blvd

Park Ave

Montgomery Rd

ate

Vin ela nd Rd

N Semoran Blvd

S Ora nge B lossom Trl

d na R rco Cla

Howell Br anch Rd

Bee Line Expy

Pershing Ave

Ventura C.C.

S Ora nge Ave

Blvd oran Sem

S Crystal Lake Dr

d Blv Temple Dr

Trl Forsyth

Bennet Rd

MAP 4 REGIONAL

S Semoran Blvd

North St

THE GUIDE

ste We ter ebs W l ie Dan

US Hwy 27

Southern Dunes

Ronald Reaga n Pky

Ree dy C r

DAVENPORT

547

532

Reunion Resort

530

Celebration

CELEBRATION

TOLL 417

536

Marriott Golf Academy

rS al D ion

S Ora nge B lossom Trl

W Irlo Bronson Mem Hwy

Hawk's Landing

ed Re

545

192

ESPNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wide World Of Sports

DisneyHollywood Studios 67

Buen Vist a Dr

Lake Buena EVistaa

Creek 580

n atio

ern Premium Int Outlets

Bl v

535

a Pky sceol WO

Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores

l Florida ntra Greeneway Ce

535

vd na Bl cia oin SP

y Cypress Pk

Reaves Rd

17 92

530

Hunters Creek

t yS Cla

Gatorland 17

192

Lake Tohopekaliga

KISSIMMEE

N Kissimmee Municipal Airport

W Carroll St

Rd rbee ethe WW

Town Center Blv d

441

531

art Blvd

527

0 0

Toll Roads

27 US Hwy

Remington

4 km

Shopping

Attractions

Theme Parks

Golf Course

58 Exits

EV i

TOLL 417

East Lake Tohopekaliga

Kissimmee Bay Fortune Rd

KEY

Ne ptu ne

Blvd

10 Interstate

441

Da rt

Central Florida Greene way

Bog gy Cr ee k

S Access Rd

4 mi

d kR ree Old Canoe C e pk an T Reag d l a n Ro

Mystic Dunes

Mem H wy

58 Osceola Polk Line Rd

Disney-Epcot

Cirque Du Soleil Disney Springs 68

LEGOLAND

man Rd Lough

Championsgate

W Irlo Bronson

Disney-Animal Kingdom

nte t Ce r D p co

LAKE BUENA VISTA

na cia N Poin

Wester nW

Orange Lake Resort

Palms

Shingle Creek

Dr S

t eS Vin

545

Avalon Rd

TOLL 429

N Old Lake Wilson Rd

Wo rld Dr

Inter nat

Ritz Carlton Faldo Golf Grande Lakes Institute

Ai rport Rd

535

lv d

Ham Brown Rd

N Bermuda Ave

Pky

Cypress

Pleasant Hill Rd

S ne

SJ oh n

B E Lakesho re

Yo un g

p an T Reag

Old Dixie Hwy

d Dr Worl

N Orange Blossom Trl

way Belt ern

r d Ronal

N Main St

Magnolia Blvd

13th St

Cr eeAustin k Rd Tindall Park I

Bo gg y

an tzelm Hein

MAPS

eek

w w w.wh e re t ravel e r. com 47

[WHERE INSIDE]

Orlando Your Way

Cultured

Partiers

Beach Bums

Chock full of creatives who come to work at the theme parks, Orlando naturally has a thriving arts and culture scene. Named by Travel + Leisure magazine as one of the "World’s Coolest New Tourist Attractions and among their “Best Places to Travel,” the two-block downtown (1) Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts sets the stage for Broadway shows, the Orlando Ballet and the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra. For a touch of Vegas, head to Disney Springs where (2) Cirque du Soleil’s “La Nouba” flies high with breathtaking acrobatics, dizzying choreography, evocative music and fanciful characters. Plus, the Miami arts scene has made its way to Orlando in the form of (3) SNAP! Gallery, which features hip, sophisticated events and galleries that celebrate master and emerging photographers and artists.

No matter the time of year, there’s always a party going on in Orlando. For a taste of the South Beach scene, head to (1) Mango’s Tropical Café where the flavor of Caribbean and South American Carnivals is on tap and a full lineup of family-friendly performances ranges from salsa to bachata and reggae to pop. Come for the Latin and Caribbean comfort foods and stay for the hand-made specialty drinks. For an edgier evening, check out (2) DRIP, a not-so-family-friendly, adults-only show on I-Drive where a young cast dances and splashes through water, sand and paint to rock music composed by David Traver of Blue Man Group. Visitors find Orlando’s best bar scene downtown on (3) Wall Street where a younger crowd gathers on weekends to drink and dance their worries away.

Orlando is smack-dab in the middle of Florida and this central location makes it easy to get to either coast. For the shortest drive, head to (1) Cocoa Beach and Port Canaveral, just 60 minutes east of Orlando. There you can visit the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, hop on a cruise ship or just enjoy some fun in the sun, sand and surf. Farther north is (2) Daytona Beach, home to the annual Daytona 500. If you can’t make the race, you can still tour the Daytona International Speedway or simply enjoy the wide, smooth beaches along the Atlantic Ocean that are perfect for fishing and boating to just taking a scenic drive. Softer, powder-white sand is found on Florida’s West Coast where (3) Clearwater Beach is a family-friendly destination with crystal clear water and shallow sandbars.

48 W H E R E O R L A N D O I J A N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 2017

(LEFT, FROM TOP) ©ROBERTO GONZALEZ; COURTESY CIRQUE DU SOLEIL; COURTESY SNAP; (MIDDLE FROM TOP) COURTESY MANGO'S; COURTESY DRIP; (RIGHT FROM TOP) COURTESY SPACE COAST OFFICE OF TOURISM; COURTESY DAYTONA BEACH CVB; COURTESY VISIT ST. PETE/CLEARWATER

UNIQUE TRAVEL RECOMMENDATIONS, FIT TO MATCH YOUR PERSONAL STYLE. FIND THE CITY CURATED FOR YOU AT WHERETRAVELER.COM/ORLANDO.