Orlando is probably best know for its theme parks, but there's more to it than that. Within a few hours drive or less, visitors to Orlando can see beaches, forests, and so much more.

Beaches Near Orlando

The closest beach to Orlando is Cocoa Beach, about 45 minutes away on the Atlantic coast. In the opposite direction, on the Gulf of Mexico which offers up pristine sand and crystal clear water. Other possibilities for a day trip are Daytona Beach and New Smyrna Beach, which are located on the Atlantic coast and just a short drive from Orlando.

Day Trips Beyond Beaches

Besides beaches, visitors should know that there are other points of interest located within a stone's throw of Orlando. Located just north of Cocoa Beach, Kennedy Space Center is NASA's space shuttle launch headquarters, set on a wildlife refuge eight times the size of Manhattan.

Other day trips include Silver Springs, located about an hour and a half northwest. Silver Springs is famous for its glass bottom boat tours, which showcase underwater springs, a variety of fish, and even alligators, including the two albino alligators located there. Just outside of Silver Springs is Ocala National Forest, the largest sand pine forest in the world, and a great place to take day trips in Orlando for visitors who want to go fishing, hiking, or canoeing.

Whether visitors are interested in beaches, hiking, space travel, or something else entirely, there's something they'll love near Orlando. Its location in the center of Florida makes it the perfect place from which to explore the rest of the state. No matter where visitors decide to go on a day trip during their visit, they're sure to have a wonderful time.

See Orlando and Beyond for Less

Visit OrlandoTravelHotels.com to find great deals on flights, hotels and more.  See all that Orlando and the surrounding area has to offer the entire family.  Visit beaches, attractions, etc. and see why Orlando is one of the top destinations in the world!

 

Although the Orlando area is dominated by the several theme parks, there is a lot more to see and do. Entertainment in Orlando has something for everyone. For baseball fans, there is spring training by major teams. Golfing enthusiasts have much to choose from in the Orlando area, from miniature to championship golf courses. For those wanting to stay indoors, there are great exhibits at the Orlando Museum of Art and at the Science Center.

Entertainment in Orlando even extends to the skies. Enjoy an unforgettable experience aboard a hot-air balloon as you float over Central Florida. Be sure to bring a camera to capture it all, then enjoy a commemorative toast of cider or champagne when back on the ground.

Wildlife Entertainment in Orlando

At Gatorland, the big stars are the alligator wrestlers, who allow visitors to help grab the big reptiles. Gatorland also has a petting zoo and a swamp trail.

The Central Florida Zoo is about 30 miles north of Orlando, a great family destination holding special events throughout the year. Let Canoe Creek Charters take you on an adventure safari to hunt alligators, while staying safely aboard an airboat. Many fresh and salt water fishing adventure tours are also available.

For decades now, the Orlando area has remained one of the top Florida destinations, bringing millions of visitors every year. The Orlando International Airport is served by airlines from all over the world, and there are hundreds of hotels in all price ranges to satisfy every visitor. All-inclusive tour packages are often a great bargain, as they include entrance to the Disney World parks and other venues.

Visit OrlandoTravelHotels.com to book your trip to Orlando.  You'll find guaranteed low rates on hotel rooms as well as fabulous deals on flights, rental cars and more.  Come see for yourself why Orlando is a top destination.
 

Orlando is a vibrant and fascinating city, but it's best known for its theme parks. For some, they can be overwhelming or one may just desire to get away from the city for a little while. Day trips can be an inexpensive way to inject some adventure into the daily routine without jetting off on an expensive vacation.

The area surrounding Orlando is brimming with fun and interesting outings for those looking to get away for the day.

Spend the Day with Astronauts

Less than an hour from Orlando is Titusville, where Floridians can get a taste of the life of an astronaut. This town has offered some of the best views of a shuttle launch. Even if it is not launch day, head over to the Kennedy Space Center to take a tour. This is the best way to learn about NASA and the astronauts.

Journey to the Center of the Earth

Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park in Gainesville has fascinated curious tourists since the 1880s. This bowl-shaped hole in the earth leads to a rainforest and sinkhole. Small streams trickle down into the chasm where researchers have found fossilized marine life and continue to learn about the pre-historic world. Visitors to the park can hike through the lush forests, enjoy a picnic, and learn more about the sink hole through various displays at the park.

Florida’s Peaceful Beach

Flagler Beach sits on an island between the Atlantic and Intracoastal Waterway not far from Orlando. The town is popular with fisherman and those who enjoy a good farmer’s market. The charming town offers relaxation to anyone looking to escape city life for the day.

Day trips are a fantastic way to let go of stress and enjoy the area outside of town. Certainly, Orlando has a lot to offer, but sometimes it is necessary to just set out and discover something new.

Visit OrlandoTravelHotels.com to plan your trip in and around Orlando or all over the great Sunshine State.  You'll find guaranteed low prices on hotel rooms and great deals on flights, rental cars and more.  Use OrlandoTravelHotels.com to learn more about wonderful day trips originating from Orlando.
 

The greater Orlando area in central Florida is one of the most popular vacation destinations not only in the state, but in the world. The main attraction is the gigantic Disney World entertainment complex about twenty miles west of Orlando, but there is a host of other attractions in and around town.

This area of town includes the Magic Kingdom, Epcot Center, and Animal Kingdom. There are shops, restaurants, campgrounds, and a choice of accommodations within Disney World so visitors can spend their entire vacation there.

Water Parks

Among other things to do in Orlando is to visit SeaWorld, one of the oldest attractions in the area where daily dolphin and killer whale shows are performed. Nearby at Discovery Cove visitors can swim with dolphins and go snorkeling among stingrays and tropical fish.

On International Drive is Wet 'n Wild, a popular family destination with wild rides for adults and milder ones for the kids.  There are several other water parks in the area so you'll have little trouble finding one to your liking.

3 Suburban Orlando Attractions

1. Gator Land amusement park covers seventy acres, with a restaurant that offers gator nuggets and barbecued alligator ribs. There are daily alligator wrestling shows, plus a petting zoo and mini water-park for the kids at Gator Land.
2. A visit to the Holy Land Experience is another of many things to do in Orlando, where the time and place where Jesus Christ lived is re-created in theatrical inspiration so visitors can feel what it was like to live there.
3. Enjoy a guided adventure at Forever Florida, covering 4700 acres of central Florida wilderness that can be traversed by horseback, aboard a coach, or zipping through the treetops.

The great thing about Orlando is there is a little bit of something for everyone.  Visit OrlandoTravelHotels.com to find unbeatable prices on hotel rooms, great deals on flights, and much more.
 

When you are looking for a bit of family fun, you cannot beat the water parks in Orlando. Many people choose a Disney vacation, but will only have time to visit one water park and are unsure as to which one to choose. There are two different water parks at Walt Disney World in Orlando; Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon.

Both water parks have lots of fun slides and a lazy river. They both have play areas for younger children and plenty of activities. It can be difficult to decide between the two, but if you take a closer look at some of their main features, it makes the decision a little easier.

Typhoon Lagoon

One of the most unique water parks in Orlando is Typhoon Lagoon. Typhoon Lagoon has an attraction in which you can snorkel with the sharks and other saltwater fish called Shark Reef. Another unique attraction is the Crush 'n' Gusher, which is a roller coaster type water ride that is popular with both kids and adults.

Blizzard Beach

Blizzard Beach offers more thrill rides and is more popular with the teenage crowd. It has one of the highest water slides in the world called Summit Plummit. Blizzard Beach is fashioned after a ski theme and has a chair lift that takes you to the top of several different slides. One particularly fun family ride is Teamboat Springs, which will allow your whole family to ride together in a raft that holds up to six people.

There are other water parks in Orlando, but these are two of the most popular. No matter which one of the water parks in Orlando you choose, be sure to bring your sunscreen and lots of energy. Your family will have a great time at any of the water parks.

Beat the Heat

Beat the heat and plan a trip to one of Orlando's great water parks.  OrlandoTravelHotels.com offers you a convenient way to make your travel arrangements and find guaranteed low rates on hotel rooms.  Book your flight at the same time as your hotel room and save an average of $525.  Slide into Orlando at a great price and visit all of the attractions in the area.
 

Orlando is a great place to spend a day, a weekend or a week. The Central Florida city attracts millions of visitors each year from Florida, the United States and the entire world.

The Orlando area is probably best known for all of the amusement and theme parks including Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld. There is something for everyone in Orlando.

Disney World

Disney World is the most popular of all Orlando tourist attractions. Kids will love the rides in the Magic Kingdom while adults will probably prefer touring the countries of the world in Epcot Center.

There are many great resort properties ranging from luxury 4 star hotels like the Pelican to family-friendly villas in Old Key West. If you get tired of the theme parks, you can enjoy a round of golf on one of the championship courses or just have fun swimming, biking or playing a friendly game of basketball.

Universal Studios

Orlando travel would not be complete without a visit to Universal Studios. The theme park is enjoying enormous success with its Harry Potter attraction. You can get a behind the scenes look at how movies are made or perhaps visit the set of one of today's most popular TV shows.

Other Things to Do in Orlando

Orlando has plenty of nightlife for those in their 20s and 30s and the city also has plenty of water parks where the kids can splash and have fun. Miniature golf is a popular family past time and the whole family can have fun visiting Ripley's Believe it or Not Museum.

Adventure does not stop there. For those that want a few more thrills, you can test your driving skills as you get behind the wheel of a race car or take a ride in a hot-air balloon.

You can also enjoy great restaurants and shopping in and around Orlando. You will never get bored when you visit Orlando regardless of how long you stay.

Book your visit to Orlando through OrlandoTravelHotels.com and take advantage of some great deals on all your travel needs.  You'll also find lots of helpful information about all things Orlando.
 

If you are looking to fill your Orlando itinerary with the perfect experiences for your specific travel group, then look at these suggestions of things to do in Orlando. As you'll very shortly see, the beautiful, exciting and culturally rich city of Orlando, Florida truly offers something for everyone.

Orlando for Families

As the closest city to the iconic Walt Disney World theme park, it goes without saying that Orlando is a popular family destination. Universal Studios and SeaWorld also have flagship locations in the city, so a family could easily fill a whole week at any or all of those three theme parks.

Orlando for Young Adults

If you're looking for something a little more adult than Animal Kingdom or the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, then you'll be pleased to learn that adult-themed entertainment complexes like Downtown Disney and CityWalk barely scratch the surface of Orlando's offerings for young adults. The Florida city is also well known for its dance clubs, bars and extremely active music scene.

Orlando Off the Beaten Path

If a commercial vacation doesn't appeal to you, then Orlando also offers plenty of opportunities to go off the beaten path. See some of the city's history at the historic Fort Gatlin, enjoy the frequent sunshine at any of the area's many famous pro-level golf courses, or get some relief from the heat by hitting the water. Orlando is also well known for its Latin culture as well as its performing arts scene, both of which are celebrated several times a year at festivals like the popular Orlando International Fringe Theater Festival.

Getting to Orlando

OrlandoTravelHotels.com is your one-stop destination for securing your flight and hotel reservations.  You’ll find great deals and can even save on average of $525 when booking your flight and hotel at the same time.  Start your itinerary by making your travel reservations to Orlando.

Photo Courtesy of theorlandoblog.com

 

When people think of taking a trip to Orlando, the first thing that comes to mind is Disney World and several other theme parks. However, there are many interesting and exciting things to do in the city besides Disney World and these other parks.

Great Museums and Exhibits in Orlando

Because it is so big, there are countless opportunities for entertainment. There really is a little something for everyone in this bustling, Central Florida city. It is a great place to travel to for people who love to spend time in museums. Some of the best museums in the area are the Orlando Science Center, the Mennello Museum of Art, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

These museums have all different kinds of paintings and exhibits. Tours of the museums are offered daily and are very reasonably priced. In addition to the many great and educational museums, the city is also in close proximity to several beaches.

Great Beaches Close to Orlando

Favorite Central Florida beaches include Daytona Beach, Cocoa Beach, New Smyrna Beach, Canaveral National Seashore, and Melbourne Beach. All five of these places are very nice destinations for families to spend a fun afternoon in the sun. It is very common for both locals and tourists to be spending their days on a nearby beach. Other fun things to do in the area include the John F. Kennedy Space Center and the Holy Land Experience.

Great Restaurants in Orlando

There is no shortage of dining opportunities in and around Orlando.  You will find restaurants for any budget.  Some good restaurants in the city are Chathams Place Restaurant, Zenzi, the Palm Restaurant, and Pearl Steakhouse.

Great Travel Deals to Orlando

OrlandoTravelHotels.com is the best web site to visit when planning your trip to Orlando or anywhere else for that matter.  You’ll find savings on flights and hotels, plus find valuable information on all things related to Orlando and Central Florida.

Because there are so many things to do in the Orlando area, it’s a great vacation destination for people looking to get away and relax. It is by far one of the best cities to travel to in the Southeastern part of the United States.
 

I’m 50 years old and I love Easter just as much as I did as a kid.  I love making Easter baskets for my family and I love getting one.  I still enjoy a good old-fashioned Easter hunt too.

If you love all that is Easter, visit one of Orlando’s theme parks to partake in good old Easter fun.  There are lots of different activities that will make for a fun outing for the entire family.

• Epcot – Easter egg hunt for kids 3-9 years of age every 20 minutes.  Starts at 10 am and ends at 5:20 pm at Heritage Garden at the American Adventure Pavilion.  At Future World West Garden, kids 6-12 can enjoy Easter egg relays every 40 minutes from 10:40 am to 4:40 pm.

• Magic Kingdom – Meet Mr. and Mrs. Easter Bunny in the Tour Guide Garden and don’t miss the Easter parade at 3:00 pm.

• Universal Studios – meet the characters from the new hit movie HOP.

Easter Celebrations Include Delicious Foods

In addition to fun activities for the entire family, many area restaurants are offering special fare for brunch and lunch.  Check your favorite restaurant to see what’s on the menu for Easter Sunday.

Orlando is such a great place to enjoy Easter.  Sunrise services throughout town, parades, egg hunts, and more will ensure you have the best Easter celebration yet.  Let OrlandoTravelHotels.com get you to Orlando for less.  Enjoy great deals on flights, hotels, and more.  You’re sure to get the best pricing, guaranteed.
 

Bike riding is one of my favorite pastimes and the Orlando area offers plenty of paths and trails for all sorts of biking.  Bring your bike along for your trip to Orlando or rent one from many bike rental stores in town.

Paved Pathways and Mountain Trails

There is a path or trail in and around Orlando for any level of biker.  Enjoy flat paved paths or rugged, hilly mountain bike trails.  Here are a few of our favorites by category:

Mountain Trail Biking

1.    Wekiwa Springs State Park – 8 miles
2.    Rock Springs Run State Reserve – 12 miles
3.    Seminole State Forest – 30 miles
4.    Little-Big Econ State Forest – 2 miles
5.    Alexander Springs Loop – 11 miles

Paved Bike Trails

1.    West Orange Trail – 22 miles
2.    Cady Way Trail – 7 miles
3.    Wekiva Trail – 14 miles
4.    Little Econ Trail – 9 miles
5.    Lake Fran Trail – 2 miles

See the Beauty of Central Florida by Bicycle

These are just a few of the trails throughout the Orlando and Central Florida areas.  There are many more and any of them will provide you with an opportunity to see some simply stunning scenery. 

Getting to Orlando

OrlandoTravelHotels.com will get you to Orlando for less.  Use our site to find savings on hotels, flights, and more.  Reserve your hotel and flight at the same time and save up to $525. 

Get to Orlando for less and have enough money to rent a couple of bikes while you’re in town.  It’s a great way to enjoy the weather and see beautiful areas not accessible by car.
 

First, Orlando surpassed Las Vegas as the top tourist destination and now Orlando has dethroned Vegas in another category, Most Popular Spring Break Travel Destination for 2011.  These results are according to an Orbitz survey.

Last year, Orlando ranked #5 so it looks like it wasn’t just Las Vegas that was surpassed.  Perhaps Orlando came out tops in this survey because it is a family-friendly location.  Not all Spring break travelers are college kids looking for the next beach keg party. In fact, the survey indicates 88% of the respondents try to avoid popular Spring break locations for the college-age group.

The fact is, four Florida locations ended up in the top ten of this list.  Of course, Miami/Fort Lauderdale made it, but Fort Myers and Tampa also are hot destinations this Spring break.

If Orlando Doesn’t Have It, It’s Close By

Orlando pretty much has it all.  You can find the world’s greatest theme parks, sporting venues, recreational opportunities, and oh yeah, you are within easy driving distance to beaches not just the Atlantic Ocean, but the Gulf of Mexico too.  Pick your beautiful poison on this one.

Many cruise lines call Port Canaveral home and you can fly into Orlando International Airport and catch a shuttle over to set sail for an exotic location.  Check out the newest ship in Disney’s fleet, the Disney Dream.  I hear it really is a dream of a ship.

For sports enthusiasts, the Orlando area is home for spring training to many Major League Baseball teams.  The Atlanta Braves, Houston Astros, and New York Yankees are just a few of the teams you can see play while you are in town.

It’s no wonder that Orlando came out on top in this survey.  There are just so many different things to do and enjoy. Regardless of age, you can have a great time in Orlando -  not just in the Spring, but any time of the year.  

Save on Spring Break Travel

Visit OrlandoTravelHotels.com to find savings on all your Spring break travel needs.  Great pricing on hotels, flights, cruises, rental cars, and more are right at your fingertips.  Let OrlandoTravelHotels.com do the work so you can enjoy a relaxing time in Orlando or anywhere else in Florida.
 

Orlando is a top destination for many reasons.  The good weather, theme parks, and recreational opportunities are abundant.  The animals are too.  The Orlando and Central Florida areas have some great animal attractions.  Check out this list of some of the main animal attractions in the area:

1.    Discovery Cove – my personal favorite is Discovery Cove.  Not only do you have an opportunity to swim with the dolphins, you can mingle with manta rays, tropical fish, and exotic birds.

2.    Central Florida Zoo – the Central Florida Zoo is not only exotic, it’s educational too.  You’ll find all sorts of animals plus the opportunity to learn about them and their native habitat.

3.    Animal Kingdom – at Animal Kingdom you see lots of animals and have opportunities for interacting with them.  The largest animal-themed park in the world, Animal Kingdom is home to more than 1,700 animals from 250 species.

4.    SeaWorld -   Shamu awaits you as do exciting rides.  In addition to Shamu, you can see manatees, penguins, turtles, and more.

5.    Gatorland – what is visiting Florida without the opportunity to experience alligators up close and personal?  You’ll see rare alligators plus crocodiles, exotic wildlife, and more.

If you are visiting the Orlando area, don’t miss the opportunity to visit these and other great animal attractions in the vicinity.  They offer a great experience for the entire family.

Save Money on Travel to Orlando

Plan your family vacation now to experience all the animal attractions Orlando area has to offer.  OrlandoTravelHotels.com will make sure you experience savings on your travel needs.  Save money on hotels, flights, rental cars, and more. 
 

That’s right, start your engines as we head into the final Speedweeks and the Daytona 500 race.  The actual race is Sunday, February 20, 2011, but there are lots of activities leading up to the race.

There’s some great music on tap, including a concert by Brad Paisley.  Opt for the Sprint FANZONE Pre-Race Pit Pass to have the ultimate race experience ranging from attending driver question and answer sessions to putting your autograph on the start/finish line before the race.

The Super Bowl of Stock Car Racing

The Daytona 500 is at times alternately referred to as “The Super Bowl of Stock Car Racing” or “The Great American Race”.  There’s no doubt these are appropriate titles for this race.

You’ll see some of your favorite racers in what promises to be another thrilling Daytona 500.  Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Jeff Gordon secured the front row starting spots during the qualifying race.  You’ll also see crowd favorites Jeff Burton, Jimmie Johnson, Tony Stewart, Bill Elliott, and many others as 43 of the most-electrifying drivers vie for this coveted championship win.

An Experience of a Lifetime

Daytona is located in close proximity of Orlando.  Many fans fly into Orlando International Airport and take the short drive over to Daytona for pre-race events and the final race on Sunday.

Zip over to OrlandoTravelHotels.com to make your flight and hotel reservations online. You’ll find hotels rooms on sale, some as much as 65% off already discounted prices.

Rent a car to head over to Daytona for all the activities, but don’t drive like one of your stock car heroes.  You’ll want to make it a safe trip over and of course, ticket free!
 

With the winter the entire country has seen, we’re all ready to see some warmer weather.  Swing into spring by heading to Florida to enjoy some fine baseball spring training.

Many major league baseball teams conduct spring training in Florida. Spring training begins in mid-February so plan your trip now to find some warmth and see some great preseason games. 

Cacti and Grapefruits

For spring training, teams are divided into two leagues, the Cactus League and the Grapefruit League.  Generally, the Grapefruit League trains in Florida and the Cactus League teams train in Arizona.

Visit Orlando for Great Baseball Games and Attractions

Take a trip to Orlando and catch several preseason games plus be able to enjoy all the other attractions, theme parks, etc., that the Orlando area has to offer.

Here are some of the locations for those Grapefruit League teams training close to Orlando, Florida:

Kissimmee (Walt Disney World) – Atlanta Braves
Kissimmee (Osceola County Stadium) – Houston Astros
Tampa – New York Yankees
Lakeland – Detroit Tigers
Dunedin – Toronto Blue Jays
Clearwater – Philadelphia Phillies
Viera – Washington Nationals

Swing Into Saving Money on Travel

OrlandoTravelHotels.com is the place to go to find travel deals on flights, hotel rooms, rental cars, and more.  You can even search for hotels located near the address of any baseball practice field in any city!

Find plenty of things to do in addition to seeing some baseball action while in the Orlando area.  Now, batter up!
 

Virtuoso, a leading luxury travel network, has released their Virtuoso Luxe Report for 2011.  To those of us who love all things Orlando, it is no surprise that Orlando landed at number 5 on the Top 10 U.S. Travel Destinations for 2011.

Perhaps more telling into this ranking is another ranking.  Virtuoso rates the number one biggest travel trend emerging in 2011 as family and multi-generational travel.  Orlando is the perfect destination for both of these groups.

Big Happenings in Orlando

It’s no secret the theme parks located in and around Orlando are big draws for the area.  Travelers will find new additions to parks such as Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal and plans for revamping existing attractions such as Fantasyland will keep travelers coming back.

More to Orlando Than Just Theme Parks

Orlando has so much to offer in addition to theme parks and attractions.  You will find fantastic options for restaurants and shopping.  Orlando is conveniently located to some of the most beautiful beaches anywhere and near Port Canaveral, home port to many of popular cruise lines.

Make your travel plans to Orlando to see why it is ranked in the Top 10 of US travel destinations.  OrlandoTravelHotels.com offers savings on flights, hotels, and more.  Book your reservations now from anywhere in the world to travel to Orlando and experience all this area has to offer you and your family.
 

If college football is your thing, head out to Florida for some great bowl games.  There are 6 NCAA 2010 bowl games held in the Sunshine State and there is little doubt you will see some great matchups.

•    Beef O’Brady’s  - St. Petersburg on December 21 features the Big East vs. already committed University of             Southern Mississippi

•    Champs Sports – Orlando on December 28 features the ACC vs. Big East

•    Outback – Tampa on January 1, 2011 features the Big Ten vs. SEC

•    Capital One – Orlando on January 1, 2011 features the Big Ten vs. SEC

•    Gator – Jacksonville on January 1, 2011 features the Big Ten vs. SEC

•    Discover Orange – Miami on January 3, 2011 features teams the BCS at-large vs. the ACC champion

The Capital One Bowl has long been one of my favorite to attend and I look forward to it again this year.  Bowl games offer you your last chance to see some fierce college football competition before the season ends.

Fly In and Out of Orlando

Make your travel plans through OrlandoTravelHotels.com to attend any of this year’s Florida bowl games.  You’ll find guaranteed low rates on hotels as well as additional savings when you book your room and flight at the same time.  Rent a car or find plenty of things to do all in one convenient location.  Now, are you ready for some football???
 

 

 

 

 

Travel + Leisure has published their 2010 results for America’s Top 35 Cities and, not surprisingly, beautiful Orlando has ranked as one of the favorite cities.  Cities were ranked in areas like culture, shopping, nightlife, restaurants, etc.

Orlando is #1 for Family Vacations and All-In-One Resorts

Orlando came out tops among all cities for family vacations and all-in-one resorts.  Seems like lots of folks love to come to the theme parks and participate in all the things to do in and around Orlando.  Not only will you find fabulous all-in-one resorts but there are so many great hotels to choose from in the vicinity.  In fact, Orlando ranked #8 in the affordable hotels category.

See for Yourself Why Orlando is Ranked as a Favorite City

If you have frequented Orlando, you know the reason you continue to return time after time.  It is a great place for so many adventures and you can rarely beat the weather.

If you haven’t come to this great city, make travel plans now to come see why it is ranked as one of the top 35 cities in the United States.  You will get great deals on all your travel needs at OrlandoTravelHotels.com.  Book your flight and make your hotel reservations at the same time and save big money.  Come to Orlando soon and experience all she has to offer you and your family.

 Photo courtesy of www.livingorlando.com
 

I am always amazed at the number of golf bags I see on the carousel when traveling in and out of Orlando International Airport.  Orlando and Central Florida are hotbeds for the golfing community and there are many top-quality golf courses which are open to the public.  Now, we aren’t talking your run-of-the-mill old golf course, we are talking about many golf courses that could host a major tournament.

Picking Your Golfing Poison

If you are a hacker like me, you might feel more comfortable playing a course where those like us gather.  But if you are a no-handicapper, get your tiger on and play some of the exceptional courses in the area.  Here are a few of my favorites:

1.    Orange County National – has been rated as one of the top if not the best, public courses to play in all of Florida.

2.    Southern Dunes – has been ranked the #6 by Golf Digest as “Best in the State”.  It has recently been renovated so it might move up in the rankings.

3.    ChampionsGate Golf Club – a renowned golfing facility with two courses designed by Greg Norman.

4.    Mystic Dunes – the five levels of tee boxes will accommodate any player.

Getting to Orlando is Easy With OrlandoTravelHotels.com

Your stay in Orlando is made a lot easier when you use OrlandoTravelHotels.com to make all of your travel arrangements.  You will find unbeatable deals and unbelievable savings when booking your flight, hotel, car rental and more through OrlandoTravelHotels.com.  Load up that golf bag in a travel safe carrier and pick it up off the carousel at the Orlando airport.  You’ll have plenty of choices in golf courses for working on your short or long game.
 

If you want to experience Orlando along with the surrounding area and save big, get your Go Orlando Card today. You will find reduced admission prices to 40 popular attractions in and around Orlando.

Lots of Attractions, Lots of Fun

There is something for everyone with the attractions accepting the Go Orlando Card.  Save up to 50% on the retail admission price for places like Kennedy Space Center, Daytona 500 Experience, Wet ‘n Wild, Congo River Adventure Golf, and Boggy Creek Airboat Rides.  You’ll also find savings at many restaurants and shopping venues.

Options Abound

You can purchase several options of the Go Orlando Card.  Select one, two, three, five, or seven day cards based on how long you will be in the Central Florida area and how many attractions you’d like to visit.  Learn more about Orlando before you visit and let the guidebook you receive help you plan your activity schedule.

Save on All Your Travel Needs

Use OrlandoTravelHotels.com to purchase your Go Orlando Card and find unbelievable savings on your travel needs to Orlando.  Book your hotel and flight together and save an average of $525.  See all that Orlando has to offer and get a discount on entrance fees to some of your favorite attractions with the Go Orlando Card.
 

It’s no secret that Orlando is a top tourist destination.  There are so many things to do  but it can get quite expensive with all the admission fees to theme parks  and water parks .  What many folks fail to realize is there are lots of activities, attractions and recreational opportunities in Orlando that won’t cost you one cent to get into.

Our Top 5 Free Activities

The weather is one of my favorite things about Orlando.  Even with the summer showers, there is plenty of sunshine on most every day to get out and do something fun.  Here is a list of our 5 favorite free things to do in Orlando:

1.    Lake Eola Park  – located in downtown Orlando, this is one of our favorite outdoor locations.  We love to picnic there and stroll around the lake.  Sometimes you can catch free flea markets, art exhibits, and concerts being held on the grounds.  While there are paid activities there such as paddle boats, it won’t cost you a dime to feed the beautiful swans who call Lake Eola home.

2.    Harry P. Leu Gardens  – if you find yourself in Orlando on the first Monday of any month, you can get in free to see one of the true gems of the city.  The foliage is just beautiful and Leu Gardens is home to the largest formal rose garden in Florida as well as the largest collection of camellias outside of California.

3.    Old Town  – this nifty location has unique shopping, dining, and rides but it’s a great place to just stroll around.  You can also catch lots of free band performances, car shows, etc. throughout the week and weekend.

4.    Central Park  – this is a lovely area set in the middle of Winter Park.  The host lots of free events during the year including the Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival.  The park is alive with water features and beautiful plants and trees.  Take a picnic and then stroll down the brick-paved streets to see lots of unique shops.

5.    The Albin Polasek Sculpture Gardens  – also located in Winter Park on Lake Osceola, this 3 acre garden dates back to 1949.  Many of the plantings were originally placed by renowned artist Albin Polasek.  There is a fee to enter the museum to view Mr. Polasek’s work but admission to the garden is free.

Save on Travel Too

Save a little bit of money on your travel expenses by booking your travel through OrlandoTravelHotels.com .  You can save an average of $525 when making your flight  and hotel  reservations at the same time.  You can also find out lots of information about Orlando and the things to do and see while you’re in town.
 

Have you ever wanted to get close to those ponies that pull Cinderella’s carriage through the Magic Kingdom?  Well you can with a trip to Tri-Circle D Ranch at Fort Wilderness in Orlando.  Tri-Circle D Ranch is one of Orlando’s unique recreational  activities.

Guided Trail Rides and More

At Tri-Circle D Ranch you can also see the magnificent Belgian horses that also are prominent on Main Street at Magic Kingdom.  But the ranch is more than just about seeing horses, you can actually take guided trail rides through some of Central Florida’s most beautiful natural scenery.  Travel on horseback through woodlands and see that Florida is more than just about beaches .  Stop by the blacksmith shop to see artistry in motion. Move on to the petting zoo where you will find a myriad of animals with which to interact.

Stay Near the Ranch

Tri-Circle D Ranch is located at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground.  Not only can you play there, you can stay there as well.  There are several hotel  options to suit any family’s needs.  Reserve all your travel needs through OrlandoTravelHotels.com  and get savings on hotels , flights , rental cars , and more.  Staying near the ranch will ensure you’ll be right in the thick of everything Disney .

 

 

Experience the beautiful natural habitat of Florida firsthand by taking a trip to Forever Florida and participate in Florida EcoSafaris.  Florida EcoSafaris will put you up close and personal to many of the incredible wildlife, streams, and wetlands found in the Sunshine State.

Take a Break from the Theme Parks

We all know the theme parks  in Orlando are a huge draw for tourism.  However, there are so many wonderful things to experience in Florida, and you should take a short drive over to St. Cloud and spend the day at Florida EcoSafaris.  Florida EcoSafaris is one of the great day trips  available to you when vacationing in Orlando.

An Unforgettable Journey

Choose from three fully-guided safaris or experience all of them.

• Zipline Safari – strap up and hang on as you zip along cables at up to 25 mph and up to 55 feet in height.  This two-and-a-half hour tour allows you to soar over wetlands, view native wildlife, and experience the ecology of Florida.  This is a great choice of safaris for the thrill seeker.  You can even take the safari at night on the Starlight and Moonlight Zipline Safaris.  Florida residents receive special discounts through August 15, 2010.
• Coach Safari – this two-hour safari is a bit tamer and more relaxing.  You will traverse through the 4,700 acre Forever Florida wildlife conservation area.  See nine different ecosystems and many of Florida’s most prized flora and fauna.
• Horseback Safari – saddle up and move ‘em out and choose from a one, two, or three hour safari on horseback.  Ride through incredible ecosystems and on historic trails dating back to the 1500’s.

When making your travel  plans for a trip to Orlando, be sure to include time for a safari, Florida-style.  You will be exposed to some of the incredible ecosystems native to the state. 

Book your travel needs through OrlandoTravelHotels.com .  Save on average of $535 when making your flight  and hotel  reservations together.  Look for the yellow save  tag for hotels offering guaranteed rates.

 

 

Orlando and Central Florida are hotbeds for golfing.  You can play golf  year-round on some of the world’s most acclaimed golf courses.  Several championship golf courses are located in one convenient location, Orange Lake Resorts.  Courses accommodate all levels of players.

Play Golf in a True Florida Landscape

Each course is designed to accentuate and include the lushness of Florida’s landscape.  Select the course that best fits your level of play:

• The Legends at Orange Lake – this 18 hole Arnold Palmer design is one of Orlando’s most popular courses.  Once you see the layout, you will understand why.  Two distinct layouts on each front and back nine allow you to experience Scottish-style golf and the tree-lined layout of the Carolinas.
• The Reserve at Orange Lake – 18 hole course with expansive greens nestled in the Florida wetlands.  Play a round of golf and see some beautiful scenery native to Florida.
• Crane’s Bend - a 9 hole course perfect for the entire family.  See some of Florida’s most treasured wildlife in a picturesque setting.
• Legends Walk – this 9 hole course is a unique design by Arnold Palmer.  Walk a beautiful course during the day or play it under lights at night.

Enjoy golfing at its finest at any of the courses located at Orange Lake Resort in Orlando.  Book your travel needs through OrlandoTravelHotels.com .  Save on average of $535 when making your flight  and hotel  reservations together.  Look for the yellow save  tag that indicates hotels offering guaranteed rates.

Book that flight  and hotel  reservations to Orlando today to get to the Silver Spurs Rodeo June 5-6, 2010.  There will be lots of yee hawing and stellar racing, riding, and roping by some of the country’s best cowboys and cowgirls.

See Spectacular Rodeo Events

This is the 125th year for Silver Spurs Rodeo.  It is ranked among the top 50 events sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association.  The event is held inside the Osceola Heritage Park just outside of Orlando.  You can see a lot of action for only $15 a person.  There will be competitions for bareback bronco, barrel racing, bull riding, steer wrestling, team roping and much more.  You will be amazed at the skill and athleticism of the participants.

Find Nearby Accommodations at Clarion Resort Waterpark

There are plenty of hotel accommodations nearby including OrlandoTravelHotels.com’s  featured hotel of the week  for May 31st, Clarion Resort Waterpark . Find the perfect accommodations for you and your family and have a fabulous time at the Silver Spurs Rodeo event.

 

You might be surprised to learn that the town of Ocala, just a short drive north of Orlando, is known at the horse capital of the world.  Horseback riding probably isn’t the first thing that springs to your mind when you think about Orlando.  I was the same way until I took my first Florida horseback ride at Horse World Riding Stables .  You can horseback ride in breathtaking scenery and get away from all the stresses of everyday life.  Horse World is located just south of Orlando, FL in the Walt Disney World Resort  area.

Horseback Rides for All Levels of Riders

Horse World Riding Stables offers three levels of guided trail rides.  I grew up around horses and have always enjoyed riding.  I never considered that upon moving to Florida, I could find such a wonderful, convenient place to continue my love of horseback riding.  Horse World not only provides a great setting for riding, they also provide a safe haven for abused and neglected horses.  They rescue horses and give them a safe home for rehabilitation. Anyone that helps animals is okay in my book.

Dust Off Those Chaps for Your Trip to Orlando

Your visit to Orlando can now include horseback riding along with visiting the beaches , theme parks , or any of the other great things to do  you can find in and around Orlando.  So dust off those chaps and get to OrlandoTravelHotels.com  to make your travel reservations today.

 

 

Shingle Creek Golf Club  is the backdrop for the luxurious Rosen Shingle Creek Resort in Orlando.  Voted one of America’s Top 40 New Courses and one of Central Florida’s Top 10 Toughest Courses, this David Harman designed course will challenge you to sharpen up your golf game.

Undulating Fairways in a Tropical Setting

While the course is challenging, even lesser-experienced recreational golfers will enjoy playing this course.  Five sets of tees offer you the flexibility to customize your game. 

Play among the headwaters to the Florida Everglades and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings.  A lush, tropical landscape enhances existing oak trees and native pines.  The creek runs through the golf course so you will have the opportunity to see some amazing wildlife at this fantastic Orlando recreation  destination.

Plan a stay  at the Rosen Shingle Creek  and reserve your tee time at Shingle Creek Golf Club.  It will be one of your more memorable rounds of golf. Find unbeatable savings on your travel plans into Orlando at OrlandoTravelHotels.com .

 

 

Not only can you find great travel travel package deals in Orlando, you can find great golfing deals too. It’s no small wonder I see so many golf bags on the conveyor belt as Orlando International Airport.  The Orlando area offers some of the best recreation and golf courses you will find anywhere.

Beautiful Golf Courses for Any Level of Play

I love to golf and have found some of my most enjoyable golf outings right here in and around Orlando.  There are golf courses designed toward any handicap and skill levels.  Choose from courses such as one of the south’s oldest, Mission Inn El Campeon, to one receiving 4.5 rating from Golf Digest, Orange County National. 

You don’t have to play like a champion to reserve a tee time at ChampionsGate Golf Club.  When booking your air and hotel travel, filter your preferences down to be near your favorite golf course. 

You can play some beautiful courses in Orlando regardless of the beauty of your actual golf swing.  I’m not a great golfer, maybe not even a really good golfer, but I have never had a bad golf outing in Orlando.  When you are surrounded by so much natural beauty, it’s pretty difficult to have a bad day playing golf.  Make sure your golf bag is one of those on the airport conveyor belt on your next trip to Orlando.

Booking your hotel rooms through OrlandoTravelHotels.com offers the 110% rate guarantee in addition to great rates to begin with. You can book your hotels, book flights, rent a car and find all the great things to do for a great vacation in Orlando all in one easy place.
 

Lots of business travelers also enjoy a round of golf.  Orlando offers the perfect location for a little business and a little golf.  Make sure you set those golf clubs right next to the briefcase when preparing for your business trip to Orlando.

Golfing Business Meetings Allow for Meaningful Interaction

There are many Orlando area golf courses set up to serve as a site for business meetings and conferences.  While in Orlando, I have attended two conferences at local golf courses.  One was a company sponsored business meeting at Dubsdread Golf Course and the other was a conference for folks in my industry held at MetroWest Golf Club. 

One provided the opportunity to interact with co-workers and the other the chance to meet peers in my industry in an enjoyable setting.  Hopefully, you will have an opportunity to conduct a little business and play a little golf on your next business trip to Orlando.

Got a favorite golf course in Orlando? Tell us about it!

Booking your hotel rooms through OrlandoTravelHotels.com  offers the 110% rate guarantee in addition to great rates to begin with. You can book your hotels , book flights , rent a car  and plan your activities  for a great trip to Orlando whether you’re in town for business or pleasure. Orlando is the place for a little of both!

Some of Orlando’s Best Golf Courses  Include:

• Disney’s Osprey Ridge Golf Course
  
• Disney’s Oak Trail at the Polynesian Resort
  
• Disney’s Lake Buena at Saratoga Springs Resort
  
• Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course at the Polynesian Resort
  
• Orange County National
  
• Mystic Dunes Golf Club
  
• Champions Gate Golf Club
  
• Hawk’s Landing Golf Club
  
• Shingle Creek Golf Club
  
• The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club Orlando, Grande Lakes

We've talked about the number of Major League Baseball teams who call Florida home during spring training.  With spring break upon us, lots of families are visiting Orlando and the surrounding area.  Why not take in one of the games between your favorite team and an opponent while you’re in town?  Many families book flights   into Orlando from all parts of the country to see their favorite team during spring training.

Big Hot Dogs, Big Fun

A co-worker in Orlando recently drove over to Tampa to take in a game between the New York Yankees and Tampa Bay Rays. Tampa is just a bunt, slide, and line drive from Orlando.  It was a beautiful day for him and his fiancé, along with about 10,000 other baseball fans, to enjoy a day at the ballpark. He said the parking was close with easy access both in and out.

There is nothing like relaxing in the sun with a big ol’ hot dog and cold beverage while a baseball game is going on and he reports that the hot dogs were the largest he had ever seen! Adding to the excitement of the day was watching Evan Longoria hit a homerun in the first inning to start the game off right for Tampa Bay.

While you’re visiting Orlando, check out the MLB teams and spring training  in the area and enjoy a great game.  You can also get the most popular souvenirs, and if you hang out after the game, you might even get the autograph of your favorite player.

If you’re looking for great hotel deals , flights to Orlando , rental cars  and entertainment  while you’re in town, check out OrlandoTravelHotels.com  where you can find everything you need to make your trip a success.

If you’re looking for a great form of exercise and love to dance, try out some of the great Orlando area Belly Dance studios. Middle Eastern dance has continued to grow in popularity over the last few years, and belly dancing is right up there at the top of the most popular list.

Try Orlando Belly Dance to Work off That 12 Pack

You will find several types of belly dancing studios  in the Orlando area.  You can choose single classes to stay in shape while you are in town or sign up for class packages if you’re a local resident. 

Belly dancing is a fantastic form of exercise ranging from beginner to advanced levels.  Work off that 12-pack that has found its way to your stomach or increase your stamina and endurance with belly dance lessons and training.  Regardless of your body shape or size, belly dancing can be the right exercise and enjoyment choice for you.

Plan your trip at OrlandoTravelHotels.com  where you will find everything you need to enjoy a memorable visit to Orlando – book flights , reserve hotel rooms  and more in one convenient place.
 

 

 

Vans is world renowned for their production of high quality skateboards and apparel. It seems only natural that they would know how to construct a phenomenal skatepark. They’ve done just that and one of them is located in Orlando, Florida.

Winter months are brutal in many parts of the country. Take a break from the cold and head to Orlando, Florida in January for some much needed warmth and sunshine.

Orange County National Golf Course (OCN) has been voted by many golfing experts as one of the best places to play in the country. Golf Digest over the last 10 years has consistently ranked it as one of the top public golfing venues. In addition to some great golfing, OCN offers lodging, a 22,000 square foot clubhouse, 42 acre practice facility, and a 22,000 square foot lighted putting green.

ChampionsGate has two premier 18-hole golf courses designed by infamous golfer and architect, Greg Norman. Relax after a round of golf and enjoy some of the finest food and drinks you will find anywhere. You will also find a well stocked pro shop for purchasing any needed golfing items. Take advantage of the unique golfing experience at ChampionsGate on your visit to the Orlando area.

The novice and advanced golfer will find a unique golfing experience at Disney’s Palm. The course is stunning and will be a pleasure to play for golfers of any level. Disney’s Palm Course has an exceptional driving range facility to work on your long or short game.

Boardwalk Bowl Entertainment Center in Orlando is home to the largest bowling alley in the Southeast. With over 80 lanes, you and your group will have a perfect opportunity to throw a few strikes and spares. And there is so much more to do at Boardwalk Bowl.

You will find the perfect venue for exciting watersports and parasailing at Walt Disney World Resort's Sammy Duvall's Watersports Centre. You can experience exciting waterskiing, wakeboarding, kneeboarding and tubing.

Hawaiian Rumble Adventure Golf in Orlando is a great way to enjoy some family fun. Whether you're celebrating a birthday or want to take a large group for a little mini golf fun, you will find great accommodations for any size group.