With its many theme parks such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Theme Park, Orlando, Florida, is a popular vacation destination for families. For those that take their pet companions along for the trip, there are several mostly dog-friendly activities that are sure to please people and pets alike.
Lake Eola Park, located in downtown Orlando, provides a beautiful setting for a long stroll with a dog. There, people and pups can observe local wildlife, such as ducks, black and white swans, fish, and turtles. The one-mile path around the lake has many conveniently located poop-bag dispensers. One of the dog-friendly restaurants in the park is Panera Bread, located on Robinson Street. Park hours are 6 a.m. to midnight and the cost is free.
Lake Eola Park
195 North Rosalind Avenue
Orlando, FL
407-246-4485
For pooches who prefer to play leash-free, Dr. Phillips Dog Park is the perfect choice. A people park sits at the end of Buenavista Woods Boulevard, with the dog park tucked behind in the park’s south-east corner. This clean and well-maintained dog park includes sections for both large and small dogs, as well as many water fountains and shade trees.
Dr. Phillips Dog Park
8249 Buenavista Woods Blvd
Orlando, FL, US 32836
Sea World Kennel offers visitors the opportunity to leave their pets, including cats, in a comfortable and safe environment. The air-conditioned kennel is located outside of the park's main entrance. The kennel is staffed from the time Sea World opens until 30 minutes after closing. The cost is $15 per day ($10 for Passport members). A copy of each animal's shot records must be provided. Pet owners are required to bring their own food and may also bring a blanket. Owners must also walk dogs during the day.
Sea World Orlando
7007 Sea World Drive
Orlando, Florida 32821
800-800-5447
seaworld.com
Big Toho Airboat Rides provide sightseeing tours on Lake Tohopekaliga, where passengers can spy gators, birds, and various wildlife. The lake is only 12 miles south of Orlando in nearby Kissimmee and is the closest swamp area to Walt Disney World. Well-mannered dogs are allowed on the tours if they are accustomed to boating. They must be kept away from the sides of the boat and under their owner's control at all times. As of September 2010, an hour-long ride for adults as well as dogs was $35, $30 per child (aged three to 10), and free for children under three.
Big Toho Airboat Rides
100 Lakeshore Blvd.
Kissimmee,Florida 34741
888-937-6843
bigtohoairboatrides.com
