Experience Orlando's magic: All you need to know to plan your vacation Orlando is not just a city of thrills; it is a vibrant hub of arts and culture with a youthful energy that permeates its streets and neighborhoods. From the bustling downtown areas to the tranquil lakesides, each district showcases Orlando's diverse character, offering visitors a myriad of activities that go beyond the theme parks. This city's alluring blend of entertainment, history and natural beauty makes it a unique destination, perfect for those who seek both relaxation and adventure during their travels. Must-visit places and attractions in Orlando Walt Disney World Resort The iconic Walt Disney World Resort is a must-visit in Orlando, offering a magical experience for children and adults alike. Spread over 27,000 acres, it features four theme parks: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney's Hollywood Studios and Disney's Animal Kingdom. Each park offers a variety of attractions, shows and parades. Magic Kingdom, known for Cinderella’s Castle and classic attractions like Space Mountain, is quintessential Disney, while EPCOT explores global cultures and futuristic innovations. Universal Orlando Resort Universal Orlando is another major attraction, providing an immersive experience with its two theme parks: Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Here, visitors can explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which spans both parks and offers experiences like the Hogwarts Express and Diagon Alley. Universal Studios is famous for its behind-the-scenes tours and movie-based attractions, whereas Islands of Adventure features thrill rides and attractions based on popular comic books, cartoons and myths. SeaWorld Orlando SeaWorld Orlando combines marine animal experiences with exhilarating rides and attractions. Visitors can see killer whales, dolphins and other marine life in shows and exhibits. The park also features some of Orlando’s most thrilling roller coasters, like Mako and Kraken, and offers opportunities for close-up animal encounters that educate and inspire stewardship of the oceans. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Just a short drive from Orlando, the Kennedy Space Center offers an awe-inspiring look at America’s space program. Visitors can meet astronauts, see historic spacecraft and even experience a simulated space shuttle launch. This complex not only educates about space exploration history but also details current and future missions, including plans for Mars. Orlando Science Center Dedicated to demonstrating the science and technology behind building a better future, the Orlando Science Center features interactive exhibits, labs and a planetarium. It's a family-friendly destination that makes science fun and accessible for all ages, with hands-on learning experiences that cover topics from mechanics to biology and applied technology. Gatorland For a unique Florida experience, Gatorland provides an up-close look at the state’s famed alligators and crocodiles within a 110-acre theme park and wildlife preserve. Known as the "Alligator Capital of the World," Gatorland offers educational wildlife programs, thrilling zip lines over crocodile-infested waters and the chance to feed some of the park's residents. Top areas to stay at in Orlando Lake Buena Vista Lake Buena Vista is the gateway to Walt Disney World and is synonymous with the resort itself. This area is ideal for families looking to stay close to Disney, with numerous airbnbs, resorts and vacation rentals that cater to every comfort's need. Besides its proximity to the theme parks, Lake Buena Vista offers a variety of dining, shopping and entertainment options, including Disney Springs, a sprawling waterfront shopping, dining and entertainment complex. International Drive Known locally as I-Drive, International Drive is Orlando’s main tourist strip. It is home to the Orlando Convention Center, major hotels, numerous restaurants and attractions like ICON Park, which features The Wheel, a 400-foot observation wheel. I-Drive is a hub of activity and entertainment, with easy access to both Universal Orlando and SeaWorld, making it an excellent location for visitors who want to be in the heart of Orlando’s tourist district. Downtown Orlando For those seeking a more local experience away from the theme parks, Downtown Orlando offers a vibrant urban atmosphere with a growing arts scene, professional sports and a thriving nightlife. The area boasts beautiful parks, gardens and a variety of cultural institutions, including the Orlando Museum of Art and the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Staying downtown provides a taste of local life with easy access to Orlando’s renowned attractions. Kissimmee Just south of Orlando, Kissimmee is a great base for exploring the wider Central Florida area. It offers a range of vacation rentals from high-end villas to budget-friendly homes, all within easy driving distance of the theme parks. Kissimmee itself hosts several attractions, including Old Town—an amusement park and shopping complex that features classic car shows and family-friendly rides. Celebration Designed by Disney, Celebration is a master-planned community with picturesque neighborhoods, charming shops and impeccably maintained parks. This family-friendly area offers a tranquil, small-town atmosphere while still being close to the excitement of nearby theme parks. Its downtown area, modeled after small American towns, provides quaint boutiques, fine dining and seasonal events that draw both locals and tourists. Orlando’s compelling mix of adventure, culture and relaxation makes it a perfect destination for a diverse range of travelers. From thrilling theme parks to serene landscapes and bustling city streets, Orlando promises an enriching and enjoyable experience for every visitor, all set in the beautiful backdrop of sunny Florida. Embark on a shopping adventure across North America While the city dazzles with an array of shopping venues such as The Mall at Millenia and the Orlando International Premium Outlets, there's much more to explore across North America. After deluxe shopping, why not explore the vibrant boutiques and sprawling Eaton Centre by finding places to stay in Toronto, where high-fashion shops and eclectic neighborhoods vie for your attention? If the allure of sun-soaked shopping by the sea appeals to you, consider finding airbnb in Santa Monica and enjoy strolling along Third Street Promenade surrounded by trendy stores and the iconic Santa Monica Pier. Lastly, for a taste of French-inspired shopping, discover Laval holiday homes, just outside Montreal, where the Carrefour Laval mall offers a retail paradise combined with Quebecois charm.