2024-12-08 09:02:50
For a detailed state map, see pages 20-21.

THE PLACE TO THRILL OR CHILL
Central Florida is legendary for its theme parks. And, outside the parks, there’s even more to discover: Think water- and land-based adventures enjoyed at a slower pace. To start, we recommend splashing and picnicking at local-favorite swimming holes and visiting with celebrated horses.

ATTRACTIONS
Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Park near Orlando recently debuted Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, a captivating ride inspired by The Princess and the Frog. Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales is an outdoor fantasy land of its own, complete with a “singing” bell tower and children’s play garden. Universal Orlando Resort will debut the highly anticipated Epic Universe in 2025, combining attractions and immersive experiences from the worlds of Harry Potter to Nintendo. SeaWorld Orlando centers its rides, shows, and educational experiences around marine life. Built just for kids, LEGOLAND Florida Resort in Winter Haven stacks two theme parks, a water park, three hotels with LEGO-themed rooms, and endless opportunities for kids and adults to play.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Scan the QR code to discover places to stay in Central Florida: VISITFLORIDA.com/places-to-stay

DINING
Pick your own fruit and enjoy homemade treats at Showcase of Citrus in Clermont, a sprawling family-owned citrus ranch with monster truck tours, gem mining, and exotic animals. Jaleo by Josè Andres in Lake Buena Vista dazzles with Spanish cuisine, including innovative tapas and paellas crafted with fresh ingredients. Kissimmee Diner serves American comfort food, such as hearty breakfasts and juicy burgers, in a nostalgic atmosphere. Maxine’s On Shine in Orlando, known for its creative dishes and extensive wine selection, pairs a lively vibe with upscale Southern cuisine. The Ravenous Pig in Winter Park represents a culinary trifecta with elevated gastropub fare, an on-site brewery, and a beer garden.

OUTDOORS
Take an exhilarating ride through Florida’s wetlands to observe native wildlife in their natural environment with Spirit of the Swamp Airboat Tours in Kissimmee. Celebration Bicycle Rental gives visitors a way to explore the picture-perfect town of Celebration, with paths winding through neighborhoods and lakeside vistas. Tubing at Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon is a cooling adventure down crystal-clear waters shaded by greenery. Cactus Jack’s Guided Horseback Rides quietly track Ocala’s Cross Florida Greenway. The Citrus Golf Trail in Sebring includes open-to-the-public, affordable yet challenging courses amidst fragrant citrus groves and views of Central Florida’s verdant landscape.

EVENTS With 300 artists, musicians, and food and beverage vendors lining the streets, the Mount Dora Arts Festival is a full-day experience. Santos Fat Tire Festival in Ocala celebrates mountain biking with races and camaraderie on forested trails.

Scan the QR code for a current list of some major events: VISITFLORIDA.com/things-to-do/events

CULTURE
Eatonville, one of the oldest incorporated historic Black towns in the U.S., was home to author Zora Neale Hurston. Experience her legacy and the town’s significance annually in January at the Outdoor Festival of the Arts. Admire downtown Kissimmee’s architectural heritage on an Instagram-worthy mural stroll that reveals the city’s vivid street art. Inspired by Disney’s legacy of storytelling, Cirque du Soleil’s Drawn to Life in Lake Buena Vista combines acrobatics and animation in mesmerizing theatrical style. The Creative City Project in Orlando highlights multimedia and multisensory installations that transform urban spaces into interactive art galleries. A retreat for art aficionados, the Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens in Winter Park sets the sculptor’s masterpieces amidst serene gardens.
©Visit Florida. View All Articles.
CENTRAL
https://digital.milespartnership.com/article/CENTRAL/4901080/837166/article.html