The Orlando airport is one of the busiest in the world and guess what: not everyone is heading to the theme parks. So what unique experiences are in-the-know travelers going for? Here’s the inside scoop.
the culture lover
As home to Rollins, one of the United States top regional colleges, Orlandos upscale Winter Park district offers plenty of culture. The hands down must-see is the Morse Museum, home to the most comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany in the world.
the food fanatic
To please a refined palate, a reservation at Luma, in Winter Park (pictured), wont disappoint: A menu featuring locally sourced ingredients that changes daily guarantees an inspired, memorable meal. Street food lovers will be well served at Hawkers, a bustling spot in downtown Orlando that specializes in Asian fare. (Were still dreaming about the curry sauce served with the Malaysian flatbreads). And the buzz-iest opening on the Orlando foodie scene is East End Market, which has brought the areas top artisan food producers and farmers under one roof.
the thrill seeker
For an adrenaline rush, look beyond the obvious roller coasters: Think space shuttle liftoff simulation at the Kennedy Space Center, where you can also get up-close-and-personal with Space Shuttle Atlantis, or a few exhilarating laps on a race track with the Richard Petty Driving Experience. And for the ultimate hair-raising Florida experience? Boggy Creeks hour-long airboat ride at night. If hundreds of gator eyes peering at you doesn’t get your heart racing, we don’t know what will.
all of the above
Tick everything off your wish list in one fabulous hotel stay yes, really! The newly opened Alfond Inn (from $169) is decorated with modern art supplied by students and alumni of Rollins College, is home to Hamiltons Kitchen (acclaimed chef Christopher Windus is at the helm) and is a stones throw from Winter Parks historic channels perfect for paddleboard exploration with Paddleboard Orlando. The cherry on top? The Alfond Inn is owned by Rollins and profits go directly to funding scholarships for top students.
Who needs theme parks, anyway? Christine Laroche
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