Fun and Orlando seem to go hand-in-hand, but making up the list of things to do can be overwhelming. Theme parks are number one on to-do lists, and for good reason since they provide seemingly endless hours of family fun. Shopping is another popular Orlando activity, especially with overseas visitors. Each Orlando attraction offers something different, so visitors should be well-informed before deciding what to do.
What's more fun than getting a good bargain, especially on designer goods? Orlando boasts two world-class outlets featuring popular designers like Michael Kors, Betsey Johnson and Calvin Klein. Even big box names like Neiman Marcus and Saks appear on the Orlando outlet scene. Orlando Premium Outlets feature 330 different shops between the two locations. Stores open daily at 10 a.m. and close at 11 p.m. Monday through Saturday and at 9 p.m. on Sunday. Hours are extended during the holidays.
Orlando Premium Outlets -- Vineland Avenue
8200 Vineland Ave.
Orlando, FL 32821
407-238-7787
premiumoutlets.com
Orlando Premium Outlets -- International Drive
4951 International Drive
Orlando, FL 32819
407-352-9600
premiumoutlets.com
SeaWorld offers an up-close look at exotic animal species including dolphins, whales, manatees, penguins and polar bears. The park also features live shows, thrill rides and an expansive kids' entertainment area. SeaWorld opens at 9 a.m. every day and closing times change during the year, with the park staying open later around holidays, spring break and in the summer. Ticket prices start at $69.95 and parking is $12 per day as of October 2010.
SeaWorld Orlando
7007 SeaWorld Drive
Orlando, FL 32821
888-800-5447
seaworld.com/orlando
Universal features two theme parks offering exclusive attractions and top-notch live entertainment in realistic themed settings. Universal Studios Florida brings the movies to life with attractions like Disaster!, Men in Black, Twister and the Simpsons Ride. Islands of Adventure won the Best Theme Park 2010 Award from Theme Park Insider, shortly after opening the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in June. Both parks open at 9 a.m. daily and closing times vary throughout the year. Universal charges $15 for parking in its garage, and two-park ticket prices start at $104 for kids and $112 for adults as of October 2010.
Universal Orlando Resort
1000 Universal Studios Plaza
Orlando, FL 32819
800-837-2273
universalorlando.com
The Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios and Disney's Animal Kingdom combine to make Disney World one of the most visited places in the world. Each park offers its own unique experiences and thrills. The Magic Kingdom is the most popular and features Space Mountain, Splash Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain, the Haunted Mansion and Cinderella's Castle. Epcot combines cultural entertainment in World Showcase with innovation and interactive attractions in Future World. Hollywood Studios pays tribute to Disney's impressive movie library, and the Animal Kingdom brings guests to a land of exotic creatures, creative shows and some wild rides.
Opening time at the Disney parks varies but is usually around 9 a.m. Closing times also vary and the parks stay open later during busier seasons. Disney offers a variety of ticket options including packages for guests staying at a Disney resort hotel. Disney hotel guests also enjoy extended park hours on scheduled days. Parking at Disney is $14 as of October 2010.
Walt Disney World Resort
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
407-939-1289
disneyworld.disney.go.com
