What To Do In Orlando, Florida — Beyond The Theme Parks

Flickr CC/Cedric Bonhomme

Regardless of whether you’re in Orlando, Florida for Disney World or Harry Potter, you’re bound to wonder what’s in town beside the theme parks. And once you’ve hit your rollercoaster fill, it turns out there’s a lot to see around the city. Here’s where we’d be after we took off our mouse ears and wizard’s robes.

Eat

We know you’re eating most of your meals at the parks (and filling up on those yummy themed treats), but if you need a brunch place, it’s Se7en Bites Bake Shop. The signature Se7en Benedict has the usual eggs on an English muffin, but you also get fried green tomatoes and peppercorn hollandaise sauce.

If you’re staying near the theme parks but don’t want to eat at the Hard Rock Cafe, we suggest Rocco’s Tacos and Tequila Bar. It’s exactly what it sounds like and not a giant chain that you can eat at all theme parks anywhere.

Get Outside

Flickr CC/ Rusty Clark

Designed by the same people who made London’s famous Ferris Wheel, a ride on the Orlando Eye gives a stunning view of the Florida city. But if you want to get out even deeper into Florida, check out Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. It’s 140,000 acres of wilderness where visitors can expect to see all sorts of Florida animals like alligators, sea turtles and bobcats (if you’re lucky). Blue Spring State Park is the spot to see manatees from November to February.

Grab A Drink

For your craft beer needs, head to Orlando Brewing Company or Redlight Redlight Beer. Florida also has its own wine-making traditions. Instead of using the usual red and white grapes, many Florida wines come from blueberries. Try Lakeridge Winery or Hutchinson Farm Winery not far from Orlando for some unique sips.

Flickr CC/Ricardo’s Photography

Fill Your Instagram Feed

Every month, Timucua Arts White House has a concert series held in an underground venue. If you happen to be in the area for one the concerts, check out the wildly varying lineup. There’s sure to be something to interest you.

Lake Eola Park’s See Art public art project is the perfect spot to get your #vacay pics in, and the park is gorgeous. From wandering around the water to taking out a swan boat, the photo ops and fun are endless.

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