6 Best Reasons to Go to Orlando, Florida

It’s impossible to think of Orlando and not have theme parks pop into your mind—and for good reason. Walt Disney World is a beloved whirlwind of whimsy perfect for families, but this historic park is far from the only spot worth checking out. Orlando is also home to SeaWorld for ocean life exhibits, Universal Studios for Harry Potter and other cinematic experiences, plus LEGOLAND—all of which can delight kids and adults alike.

What are you hungry for? Orlando likely has it. Relish slow-cooked southern barbecue at Florida-famous 4 Rivers Smokehouse. Try something a bit more exotic at Dragonfly Robata with seasonal omakase—the chef’s choice of small dishes.

No-frills options include Tin Roof for twists on classics like chicken and waffle nuggets and live music. And you can't go wrong with one of Orlando's many food trucks—the city has the most food trucks per capita in the United States.

Orlando has an array of live entertainment options ranging from Vegas-esque offerings to unique local acts. Check out Blue Man Group at Universal Orlando for some technicolor musical fun, or Cirque du Soleil at Disney World for acrobatic acts and a feast for the eyes. For some throwback appeal, dinner theaters can cross a meal and a show off your to-do list.

Orlando is known for flashy amusements, but the great outdoors of Florida have plenty of natural beauty. Step away from the rollercoasters and slip into a kayak or airboat to explore the water. Take a guided tour led by a master bird spotter, snorkel in natural springs, and explore the 12,000 protected acres that make up the Nature Conservancy’s Disney Wilderness Preserve. You can even soar over the lush Florida landscape on the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line at Gatorland—there may be a few alligators watching you from below.

When the sun sets, Orlando's nightlife heats up. Take a spin on the Orlando Eye, get a laugh at a comedy club, dance your heart out to live music, try out a local cigar bar or hookah lounge, or kick back with craft beer or refreshing cocktails at an outdoor patio. From wine bars and breweries to understated sports bars, there's a nighttime spot for everyone in Orlando.

Orlando has numerous world-class art museums to balance out any theme-park-centric trip. The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum's Tiffany lamp-filled corridors and Byzantine-Romanesque chapel make it a must-see for art lovers. The Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Garden combine the sunny outdoors with esteemed art for the best of both worlds. For something more entertaining, head to the Orlando Ballet to marvel at perfect pirouettes, or stargaze at the Orlando Science Center’s observatory.