With its dream beaches, its blazing sun and its coconut trees, Florida has all the makings of a magical world. Here, nature and excess, reality and illusion are mixed: Orlando, temple of entertainment, embodies these ideas perfectly. Known for its sensational theme parks, it transports us into a wonderful world where it is possible to change the scenery at every corner. Petit Futé offers you its must-sees in Orlando, the family destination par excellence.
International Drive, the heart of entertainment
International Drive is Orlando's main thoroughfare. It is home to the most popular restaurants and many tourist attractions. Mr. Ripley's believe it or not museum, with its dinosaur that splits the landscape, is a must-see. Curiosities from all over the world are on display, halfway between a ghost train and a science museum, this museum appeals to young and old alike. The architecture of Wonderworks, the upside down house, will also impress you. Do not hesitate to enter, many experiences are waiting for you..
Church Street Station, the heart of the city
If the majority of the visitors devote their stay to the visit of the parks, it would be a shame not to discover the center of Orlando: Church Street Station. This old station which shelters a locomotive dating from 1912 is today the heart of the night life. It is full of bars, restaurants, stores and clubs with live bands. From 7pm onwards, music can be heard everywhere in a festive atmosphere.
Touring the marshes on Lake Kissimmee
If Florida is today synonymous with rhinestones, sequins and dream beaches, it is thanks to the hand of man who knew how to open this place to tourism. Indeed, originally the state was dominated by swamps where alligators still live today. These are the charming little creatures that you can meet during a tour of the swamps on Lake Kissimmee, one of the most important in Florida, a few miles from Orlando. The opportunity to discover the rich ecosystem of this territory, far from the tourist infrastructures...
Sea World, deep-sea diving
Sea World forms, with Discovery Cove and Aquatica, a gigantic leisure complex dedicated to the underwater world. The shows are sensational: the little ones have fun during the sea lion show while the dolphins make young and old dream. But the most awaited show is that of the orcas. These molosses of several tons throw in the air their trainers before spraying the public rather abundantly!
Discovery Cove, a blue dream
Have you always dreamed of swimming with dolphins? Discovery Cove will quickly become your favorite park! Here, everything is done to help you discover the underwater world in a sumptuous setting surrounded by lush vegetation. As soon as you arrive, you'll be given a mask, snorkel and wetsuit before being led into the deep end! If the stars of the park are the dolphins, you must also see the rays and the exotic birds that populate this tropical paradise. An unforgettable experience!
Island of Adventure, guaranteed thrills
After Walt Disney World, Universal Studio is one of the most visited resorts in Florida. Island of Adventure is the second park of the site. Packed with technology, the attractions totally immerse us in the universe of our favorite movies, with comic books taking a prominent place. In the Marvel Super Hero Island you can meet your favorite superheroes before embarking on thrill rides like the Incredible Hulk Coaster, a roller coaster with a propelling cannon. It's mind-blowing!
Universal Studio Florida, in the lair of a giant
From E.T to Minions and Shrek, all generations have been lulled by Universal's films. A visit to the first park of the Orlando complex is a real dive into this fantastic universe. The Simpson's ride takes you to the land of Homer and Marge while Transformers the ride offers a breathtaking 3D stage experience during a metal monster fight. Mythical!
Disney's Blizzard Beach at Walt Disney World, water ski resort
Walt Disney World is undoubtedly the main attraction of Orlando, it is the largest leisure complex of Walt Disney Company. On 111 km2, it houses 4 theme parks and 2 water parks. Among them, the Disney's Blizzard Beach which in a polar atmosphere, like the Ice Age, welcomes bathers. For a total immersion in this universe, you can access the attractions by cable car and you can even jump on icebergs!
Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World
This zoological park is the largest of all the theme parks of Walt Disney World in Orlando. Dedicated to nature and its conservation, it houses 1,700 animals that evolve in a fabulous setting. Animal Kingdom is symbolized by the huge tree of life that sits in the center of the park and in which you can admire the stars of the movie 1001 paws in a 3D cinema. Don't miss Dinoland which celebrates paleontological America. Will you see a dinosaur?
Epcot Center at Walt Disney World, travel around the world
Epcot is one of the 4 theme parks of Walt Disney World in Orlando. Originally, it was meant to be futuristic - - Epcot translates as "Experimental Prototype of a Community of the Future". Today, 35 years after its opening, its attractions are rather obsolete. One comes there especially for its splendid international pavilions where one meets the Disney characters in their setting: Mulan in China, Alice in Wonderland and Jasmine in Morocco. A nice world tour!
