I understand the fascination that Disney has on people. I myself grew up dreaming of visiting it and, to this day, whenever I go, it feels like I’m a child again. Florida is Brazilians’ favorite foreign vacation destination and much of this is due to its parks and outlets. Orlando and its surrounding cities, however, have much more to offer travelers than the parks. See now some attractions in Orlando besides Disney, to take a break from the roller coasters, get in touch with nature and learn more about the local culture without leaving your adrenaline aside.
Read too: Where to stay in Orlando: Best value for money
Restaurants in and around Orlando
Is it worth staying in Kissimmee?
Kayaking, canoagem ou stand-up paddle
The Paddle Center is a water sports center that operates within the Shingle Creek natural reserve, in the greater Orlando region. The place has over 10 km of waterways that make it perfect for practicing water sports, such as kayaking, canoeing and stand up paddle, and has already been considered one of the best in this niche in the state.
Kayaks can be rented for a minimum of two hours and cost from US$13 per hour. It is possible to rent on the spot, but reservations are recommended to ensure the equipment is available for you and your group. The center is open every day, from 8am to 6pm in summer and until 5pm in winter. More information on the official website.
Attention: It is not a good idea to travel to the United States without international health insurance, as hospital costs there are very high. Read here how to find cost-effective insurance.
Discover Celebration
Celebration, also known as “Disney Town,” is a small community of 10,000 residents built on land belonging to the Walt Disney World Resort, right next to Orlando. The place is the materialization of the American dream and was designed by none other than Mr. Disney to be exactly that.
The experiment aimed to create a city of the future, or the ideal American community, based on the suburbs that expanded across the country in the 1950s and created that – often unrealistic – image of Technicolor life. The tour is beautiful and an immersion in the American culture of small towns, which we often miss on our trips to the country. You can take a bike ride to get to know the city or eat in the great restaurants and cafes in the charming shopping center.
Fly in a balloon
Another different tour option that pleases the whole family is the balloon flight over the suburbs of Orlando. The tour with Orlando Baloon Rides starts at US$195 for adults and US$99 for children and leaves every day, unless weather conditions prevent the flight (you must call to confirm departure on the morning of the tour).
Adventure on a vacation ranch
Forever Florida is a summer camp that also receives visitors every day to participate in activities promoted by the place. The ziplines, one of the largest complexes in the state, are the biggest stars of the house, but you can also go horseback riding, camping, observe the rich local fauna and take a historic trail through the ranch.
The ranch is open every day from 9am to 5pm. It is recommended to make a reservation on the official website. Some activities take place on specific dates and you need to check availability for your trip.
Foto destacada: Shutterstock
The trip to Florida was an invitation from Experience Kissimmee
