Florida Attractions Universal Studios Cypress Gardens Florida Aquarium International Speedway Florida Activities

Things to See and Do in Central Florida

Boasting sunny, warm weather all year round, Central Florida is home to some of the country’s best theme parks.

Premier parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and Busch Gardens are just the tip of the entertainment iceberg.

Walt Disney World. Orlando, Florida is synonymous with Walt Disney World for fans of the world’s most famous mouse! Disney World is not one but four magical theme parks plus a number of resorts and two water parks that attract visitors from all over the world. See why people of all ages get caught up in the enchantment of Disney World and return to Orlando year after year. To find out more about Disney’s Magic Kingdom, go to http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdw/index

SeaWorld. SeaWorld Adventure Park in Orlando, Florida, invites visitors to learn about our planet’s oceans in a fun, exhilarating environment. Thrill rides combine with educational animal shows and other attractions, including dining, exhibits, and gift shops, for an all-around exceptional experience. For more information on SeaWorld Orlando, visit http://www.seaworld.com/orlando/  [Top]

Universal Studios. With thrill rides and shows aplenty, Universals Studios in Orlando, Florida, is a fun, exciting way to spend a day. Some of your favorite Universal Studios movies come to life as you get behind the scenes peeks at how movies are made-as well as a taste of being in one yourself. From the ET Adventure to Shrek 4-D, Universal Studios Orlando is an entertaining experience for everyone. Visit http://www.universalorlando.com/

Wet ‘n’ Wild. From “rivers” to slides to waterfalls, Wet ‘n’ Wild waterpark offers visitors a day of fun under the sun. Little ones will love to splash around in the Kids’ Park. For those with a sense of adventure, tubular tube rides, radical rafts, even a wicked water disco experience are all waiting at this Orlando, Florida destination. http://www.universalorlando.com/wetnwild.html  [Top]

Cypress Gardens. Before there was Disney World, before there was Universal Studios, there was Cypress Gardens. Located in Winter Haven, Cypress Gardens is one of Florida’s best-kept secrets. Founded in 1936, these breathtaking botanical gardens combine with fun rides and entertaining shows that the whole family will enjoy. Don’t forget to say hello to the “Southern Belles.” For more information, visit http://www.cypressgardens.com/index.php

Busch Gardens. Busch Gardens in Tampa Bay offers visitors a portal to Africa without ever leaving Florida. From Gwazi the wooden roller coaster to the Edge of Africa animal attraction, Busch Gardens doesn’t disappoint when it comes to entertainment for visitors of all ages. Go to http://www.buschgardens.com/BGT/default.aspx  [Top]

Florida Aquarium. Children and adults alike marvel at the wonders of the Florida Aquarium in Tampa, FL. Animal exhibits include sharks, stingrays, alligators, sea otters, and the ever-popular Penguin Promenade. Here visitors can get up close to the resident African black-footed penguins. For more information, visit http://www.flaquarium.org

Ybor City. Savor a taste of old-world Cuba right here in Central Florida. Ybor City near Tampa is known as “Florida’s Latin Quarter.” Shopping, dining, and entertainment are all here in this charming town. Cigar aficionados should visit Ybor Museum, where they can experience an authentic demonstration of cigar rolling. Visit http://www.ybor.org/  [Top]

Daytona International Speedway. NASCAR fans know Daytona as the pinnacle of racecar venues. For half a century, the Daytona 500 has thrilled race fans in Florida with its grueling, awesome competition. Other races at Daytona include the NASCAR Nextel Cup and the Rolex 24. For more information, go to http://www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com/

Cape Canaveral/Kennedy Space Center. Shoot for the stars with a visit to the Kennedy Space Center near Orlando. The visitors’ complex is a starting point for a tour of NASA’s launch headquarters. The surroundings are an island wildlife refuge, adding to the unique nature of this special destination. Visit http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/  [Top]

Central Florida Nightlife. Whether it’s Ladies’ Night out in Orlando or dancing at your favorite Spanish music club in Tampa all night long, Central Florida boasts a nightlife like no other. From improv and comedy clubs to country and western bars, you’ll find your flavor in Central Florida.

Central Florida Restaurants. Central Florida offers a plethora of dining choices to visitors and locals as well. Orlando, Florida’s theme park hub, has a variety of family friendly restaurants as well as more sophisticated, romantic choices. From Tampa to Daytona Beach, visitors will find a wide array of cuisines and styles, so be sure to bring your appetite on your Florida vacation.

Central Florida Golf. Novice and pro players agree, there’s at least one golf course in Central Florida perfectly suited to your game and style. Central Florida is home to some of the most celebrated links, like the Bay Hill Club & Lodge in Orlando, with its PGA Tour Invitational; Hidden Lakes Golf Course in New Smyrna Beach; and Daytona Beach’s Indigo Lakes Club.  [Top]