If you’re thinking of taking a break as the winter cold snap sets in, you’ll surely want to consider a trip to Orlando, Florida. There are many reasons why Orlando is the perfect place to visit to get away from the rain, snow and cold and here are the 7 best ones.
1. Climate
Orlando, Florida has a temperate climate. In the winter months, you almost certainly have sunlight every day. Sometimes it gets a bit colder, but it is very unusual for it to be cold for too long and temperatures are usually in the 60s or 70s during the day and drop to the low 40s or 50s at night. This makes your trip even more enjoyable as you can get out and explore some of the wonderful things the area has to offer.
2. Theme parks
Orlando is the theme park capital of the world. Its top three theme park operators are Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld, but there are plenty of other smaller attractions to enjoy. You can count the manatees at Blue Spring State Park or experience the natural beauty of Central Florida on horseback. You can touch an iceberg at Titanic – The Exhibition or ride a vintage open-cockpit biplane at the art deco Fantasy of Flight aviation museum. You can see the strange and wild in Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Orlando Odditorium or design and ride your own roller coaster at WonderWorks. For something completely different, ride through the treetops on an exhilarating zipline tour in Forever Florida.
3. Shopping
Orlando has some of the best stores available in the United States today. The Mall of Millenia is a favorite with locals, while the Florida Mall remains extremely popular with visitors. Plus, you can find plenty of bargains at places like Orlando Premium Outlets, Orlando Prime Outlets, and The Loop. You should also visit Winter Park’s “Rodeo Drive”, Park Avenue’s eclectic shopping district.
Four. Meal
For that culinary experience, Orlando really tickles the taste buds. From fine dining restaurants to some of the great fast food outlets, you are sure to find something for all tastes and pockets. “Restaurant Row” on Sand Lake Road in the Dr. Phillips area is an amazing area to visit, while other great places to visit are Winter Park and the Mall of Millenia area and if you want to try some wine, visit the locally made wines at Lakeridge Winery.
5. Sport
Going out to play golf or tennis is a great way to spend some time in the winter. Orlando was recently voted the “North American Golf Destination of the Year 2010” and is home to more than 176 of the best golf courses you will find on the planet. If you want to see some great golf, the PGA Disney Classic takes place every year at the Walt Disney World resort, while Arnold Palmer hosts the Bay Hill Classic. You can also attend the Atlanta Braves spring baseball training at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex and tennis fans can improve their game and enjoy great facilities at the Orlando Tennis Center. You can also learn to water ski at the Orlando Watersports Complex or Lake Buena Vista Water Sports.
6. Culture
Orlando is increasingly known for its culture. From interesting museums to great shows and theatrical productions, you are sure to appreciate the finer things in life. Marvel at the Tiffany crystals at the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art in Winter Park or
experience the serenity of nature as you stroll through the lush and vibrant Harry P. Leu Gardens. You can take an art class at Creald School of Art or Maitland Art Cente or enjoy a carillon concert at Bok Tower Gardens. Fancy a good read? Visit the iconic Orlando Public Library, designed by John M. Johansen and Duane Stark, and inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright. Orlando is also the place where you can see top recording artists perform at the House of Blues, Hard Rock Live, or Amway Center.
7. Value
Orlando is an unbeatable value. There really is no other place that can offer you great weather, fabulous entertainment, super sports, and great culinary and cultural experiences for your money. It is a great place to visit and you will enjoy a winter vacation away from the cold weather in Central Florida.