There's more to Orlando, Florida than Disney World. All kinds of interesting places have sprung up to cater to tourists looking for more than Mickey Mouse. There's something for history buffs, art lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking the unusual.
The great ship Titanic sank into the frigid waters of the North Atlantic in April, 1912, and her doomed maiden voyage has been an object of fascination ever since. Visit full-scale replicas of the Titanic's Grand Staircase, promenade deck, boiler rooms and Verandah Cafe. The exhibit features over 200 artifacts recovered from the ship or related to the event. Actors in period costumes portray noted Titanic voyagers during the two hour tour.
"Titanic: The Experience"
7324 International Drive
Orlando, FL 32819
407-248-1166
titanictheexperience.com
Take a self-guided museum tour any day of the year at Ripley's Believe It or Not Odditorium. Ripley's Odditorium is open 365 days a year, with the last self-guided tour taking place at 11 p.m. Among the artifacts at this Ripley's outpost are shrunken heads from South America, a Rolls-Royce made from matchsticks and a portrait of artist Vincent Van Gogh concocted from postcards.
Ripley's Believe It or Not Odditorium
8201 International Drive
Orlando, FL 32819
407- 363-4418
ripleysorlando.com
Escape the bustle of the modern world and relax while strolling through this 50-acre garden. It features the largest camellia collection on the East Coast, Florida's biggest formal rose garden, a 2-acre garden of tropical streams, butterfly garden, and a late 19th century house museum. Rotating art exhibits are held on the premises.
Harry P. Leu Gardens
1920 North Forest Ave.
Orlando, FL 32803
407-246-2620
leugardens.org
