The theme parks of Disney World and Universal Studios are bona fide tourism hot spots when it comes to Orlando, Florida. But there’s more to this city than “The Most Magical Place on Earth” for a family-friendly vacation. Check out these suggestions:
Medieval Times Dinner Show – Hark back to 11th century Spain with this dinner and tournament. Before sitting, you and your group will be designated one of the 6 competing jousting teams and it will be your chivalrous duty to cheer for your corresponding knight throughout dinner. Are you ready for your biggest challenge yet? True to the 11th century, you’ll be eating your four-course meal without utensils!
Disney Quest – Step into the fantastical world of virtual reality, 3D encounters, and classic video games in this interactive theme park. After trotting down memory lane with a game of Pac Man, why not take a ride in a roller coaster of your own design at CyberSpace Mountain? You can make it as thrill-worthy or as smooth-sailing as you like.
Chef Mickey’s – With Mickey and friends as your hosts, you are cordially invited to dine with Disney World’s lovable characters. The food is buffet style and the coolest part of the restaurant is that the Magic Kingdom Monorail will be passing over your heads. Don’t forget to wave hello!
WonderWorks – Legend has it that this place began as a top secret research lab helmed by Dr. Wonder with a mission to create a man-made tornado and contain it. Something went awry, however, and the force of the tornado was unleashed throughout the lab, turning the place upside down. Fortunately, the experiments remain intact for your discovery once you are turned right side up again in the inversion tunnel.
Nickelodeon Resorts – Have a sleepover with your favorite Nicktoon in the character-themed rooms of the Nick Hotel. Next morning enjoy breakfast with Dora the Explorer, SpongeBob SquarePants and the Fairly OddParents before taking a splash at one of two water parks at the resort.
Discovery Cove – You won’t find a more intimate animal connection anywhere. Don snorkeling gear and submerge yourself (literally), to snorkel the Grand Reef where an impressive array of exotic fish, sharks and stingrays await. Don’t worry; the sharks are kept at bay by very thick glass. You can also swim with dolphins in this amazing one-on-one encounter. So grab a dorsal fin and hold on for the ride of your life!
www.medievaltimes.com/orlando.aspx
www.disneyworld.disney.go.com/destinations/downtown-disney/entertainment/disney-quest-indoor-interactive-theme-park/
www.disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/chef-mickeys/
www.wonderworksonline.com/orlando/
www.discoverycove.com/Default.aspx
The area code for Orlando, FL is 407.
Where To Eat
The Capital Grille – Famous for its dry aged steak, served in an atmosphere of elegance and leisure that only Florida can provide. 9101 International Drive. (407) 370-4392. www.thecapitalgrille.com
Ceviche Tapas Bar & Restaurant – Located in Downtown Orlando. The menu is comprised of over 100 hot and cold tapas, each infused with the taste of Northern Spain and Catalan. 125 West Church Street. (321) 281-8140. www.ceviche.com
Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville – A tropical setting and tropical food. You’ll be surrounded by tiki huts and Jimmy Buffet tunes. Don’t forget to grab a margarita from the Volcano Bar. 6000 Universal Boulevard, Suite 704. (407) 224- 2155. www.margaritavilleorlando.com
Where to Stay
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village – Located in Disney World. The lodge style resorts feature African-inspired architecture and decoration, as well as over 30 species of wildlife roaming outside your window. 3701 Osceola Parkway. www.disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/animal-kingdom-villas-kidani
Hard Rock Hotel – The hotel is within the walls of Universal Orlando. Two theme parks and the nightlife of Citiwalk are at your disposal, as well as the ambiance of rock and roll. 5800 Universal Boulevard. 1-888-832-7155. www.hardrockhotelorlando.com
Lake Eve Resort – The fully equipped kitchen is just one of the many comforts of home the hotel has to offer. 12388 International Drive. 866-999-5383. www.lakeeveresort.com