Orlando's warm weather lends itself to spending time outdoors. Visit the city's website (cityoforlando.net) for a listing of parks and sports fields available to the public. One city park features paddle boats for rent and a 0.9-mile trail encircling Lake Eola. On Sundays, wander the farmers market at the lake and walk through the beer and wine garden.
Gardeners should consider a visit to Harry P. Leu Gardens (leugardens.org), with its 50 acres of trees, plants and colorful flowers, including dozens of varieties of camellias and roses. While you're there, you can tour Leu's house, built in 1888.
The Orlando Science Center (osc.org) has attractions for every age, with 10 exhibition halls that will take at least several hours to explore. Topics include Florida's ecosystem, the human body and computer technology, to name a few. The center's Phillips CineDome is a planetarium, movie theater and laser show venue wrapped into one.
When you just want to observe and not participate, try one of the city's art museums. The Orlando Museum of Art (omart.org) features an African art collection, with pieces from all over the continent, as well as contemporary and ancient American exhibits. The Mennello Museum of American Art (mennellomuseum.com) is near downtown, with sculpture gardens and an Earl Cunningham collection.
Watch alligator wrestling and splash in a water park -- separate from the alligators, of course -- at Gatorland. Gatorland also has crocodiles, snakes and a petting zoo. Attend a night show to see the park and alligators in the dark.
When the adults are ready for a night out, consider a Party Pass to Universal Studios' CityWalk (universalorlando.com), home to dining, shopping and nightclubs. The pass allows access to the clubs without paying separate admissions. Include a movie with the pass for a few dollars more.
Spend an evening at Lowndes Shakespeare Center (orlandoshakes.org) and take in a play. All ages can find something to like here, including shows for children and seasonal performances. To save, attend a preview or matinee or check out the Theater for Young Audiences. The center's website has a listing of shows and times.
The Plaza Cinema Cafe hosts the Orlando Film Festival (orlandofilmfest.com) each fall. The festival is free, allowing audiences to view the work of new filmmakers. Check the website for each year's festival dates and film lineup.
