Orlando is a favorite destination in the States because of theme parks like Universal, Sea World, and Disney. But there's more to this place than these attractions!
Orlando is not just about theme parks. You can have a really great time in the city without stepping foot in a single amusement park. Care to know more? Here are some of the top things to do in Orlando without any connection to Mickey and over-sized mascots.
Watch a rodeo. How's this for a fun Saturday night? In Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, just an hour south of Orlando, you can feast your eyes watching expert riders tackle a bull. The ranch holds their rodeo every Saturday at 7:30 pm. You can also book accommodation in the ranch, too.
Walk in a botanical garden. How often can you say that you've spent an hour or two just walking in a field full of roses and butterflies? In the Harry P. Leu Gardens, over 1,000 rose bushes dot the 50-acre estate. During November to March, you can see the largest collection of camellias in North America.
Have a taste of international food in the International Drive. You don't need to go country-hopping if you're craving some other countries' gastronomic delights. At the International Drive, you can buy authentic food from places like Italy, Greece, and Ethiopia. If you're not up for that, Orlando's food trucks will make you eat plenty, too!
Go wine bar hopping. At Park Avenue, there are three wine bars that you definitely must check out: The Wine Room, with its 256 handpicked wines; The Eola Wine Company, where you can pair great wine with great food; and the Carmel Café and Wine Bar, where over 50 old and new world vintages can be found.
Experience a bioluminescent paddleboard tour. Sign up for a 90-minute paddleboard tour in Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, where you can experience a unique way of stand up paddling. Be surrounded by sparkling waters during the night.
