subject: A World Of Adventure In Orlando [print this page] To a lot of people, Orlando Florida means Disney World. It certainly made a splash when the Disney corporation chose to open its second theme park in this central Florida community, but today, Disney World is only one of numerous theme parks, entertainment and recreation venues you and your family will discover on your Orlando vacation.
While you are there, you will come across no lack of vacation destinations to stay. There are an abundance of terrific Florida beach vacations to be had. Rentals on these facilities start out at as low as $29 per night, less than several of the commercial hotels and all are within a few minutes of Universal Studios, Sea World and the cities action filled water parks.
Orlando was originally home to the Creek Indian Nation as well as a few other tribes. The first European colony was formed in 1836, but apart from the relics of Fort Gatlin, there is not much of that early history left. The largest inland city in the state, Orlando began to grow in reputation as a resort town throughout the initial part of the 20th Century, leading to a boom that ceased with the Great Depression of the 1930s. The area bounced back as a result of World War II when the U.S. Army Air Corps established bases in the region. Afterwards, many retired servicemen and their families stayed in the area.
Today, Orlando has more theme parks and recreation facilities of any city in the world. All of the three chief resorts, Disney World, Universal Orlando and SeaWorld, are really several parks in one. However, these parks are not all that is obtainable. Recreation attractions in Orlando are assorted, and there is a bit for virtually everyone. One different venue presents a taste of what it might have been like in a Prohibition-Era speakeasy. Al Capone's provides a nightly musical review featuring gin, jazz and flappers as well as an appearance by the arch-criminal himself combined with your preference of Italian or American cuisine.
If you are interested in earlier history, go medieval at the Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament in close by Kissimmee. The devout vacationer may like the Holy Land Experience, where re-enactors recreate ancient Palenstine including a rock climbing wilderness area for the little ones. It is highly reccommended that you go during the week since weekends are exceptionally busy and the facility gives weekday discounts but advance reservations are required.
Some educational experiences worth visiting include the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens in nearby Sanford which started out as a casual collection by local fire fighters. Gatorland is another great attraction where you can get up-close and personal with the reptiles, the closest living relatives of the great dinosuars of 65-250 million years ago. Afterwards, swim with dolphins at Discover Cove, part of the SeaWorld Resort and experience these gentle creatures in a recreation of their natural habitat.
Orlando contains a host of family entertainment choices that offers something for everyone. You can be as active or as laid back as you would like to be, but no matter what your choice, a wondrous time will be had by all.
