Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Many tourists come to Orlando without ever visiting downtown. The downtown district is pedestrian friendly and has an abundance of shops and restaurants. The area around Church Street pulsates with nightlife, with everything from large dance clubs and laid-back Irish pubs to live music venues.
Lake Eola is a picturesque lake downtown. Its fountain is considered the most beautiful in Orlando. You can explore the lake by renting a swan-shaped paddle boat or electric gondola. If you want to stay on solid ground you could have a picnic or take a stroll or jog around the nearly mile path that circles the lake. Overlooking the lake is a Disney amphitheater that hosts plays and concerts throughout the year. Every Sunday, Lake Eola hosts a farmer's market, featuring the finest in local produce, as well as prepared foods and unique crafts.
The Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens was founded in 1961 to promote the legacy of sculptor Albin Polasek and increase awareness and appreciation of sculpture. The galleries, historic residence and chapel are open from Sept. 1 to June 30, and the sculpture garden is open year-round. Entrance to the sculpture gardens is free.
If you enjoy exploring the underwater world, pay a visit to Discovery Cove, a high-end sister park to Sea World. At Discovery Cove, you swim alongside dolphins, visit a tropical bird aviary, snorkel with string rays in a tropical reef, and float past sandy beaches and jungle on a winding river. Because the number of visitors is limited to 1,000 per day, if you're visiting Orlando during the high season (such as summer or around a holiday), it's advisable to make a reservation in advance.
Covering 110 acres, Gator Land is a theme park and nature conservancy known as the "Alligator Capital of the World." It's home to hundreds of alligators and crocodiles, and visitors get the chance to observe these creatures up close. At the Snakes of Florida attraction, only a glass barrier separates you from some of Florida's most venomous snakes. If you tire of reptiles, there is also a flamingo lagoon, aviary and barnyard where you can pet llamas and goats.
In search of something relaxation? The Harry P. Leu Gardens span 50 acres and features 3 miles of walkways that take you through several different types of gardens, including the largest formal rose garden in Florida; others highlight butterflies and bamboo.