When you travel to new places, it is more than likely because of a specific attraction or place that caught your eye. That “something” that made you want to seek out this new place to discover and explore.
Orlando is known for being the Theme Park Capital in the U.S. but there is so much more to Orlando than all the theme parks! Explore the town and surrounding areas or Orlando and there is no way this place can disappoint any type of traveler. Orlando is full of things to see and do beyond the theme parks. Here are a few places to check out while staying in in the Sunshine State.
ORLANDO EYE
Approximately 400 feet in the air, provides you with a Birds-eye view of everything in Orlando. If you’re afraid of heights- don’t worry! The wheel moves at such a slow pace, that most people cannot even feel it moving. Be prepared to sit or stand for about 20-30 minutes depending on crowds. This is a great way to see everything in Orlando all at once. Pro Tip: A sunset ride is an ideal date-night or romantic activity. If you can go between 9 and 10 pm EST you can catch the nightly Disney fireworks as well!
YARD HOUSE
The not-so-basic restaurant, anything from steak to seafood, tacos, pizza, and burgers- the menu is diverse and very big! You will find a center bar with endless draft beers and an extensive drink menu. Be sure to try their Half-Yard size when ordering a beer. UNCLE JULIO’S
Are you a Tex-Mex fan? If so, this is the right place for you. Freshly made guacamole made in front of your table, and anything you want in it. Make fresh memories at the best Mexican restaurant in Orlando. The chain has seventeen restaurants nationwide, including a location in Boca Raton.
MARGARITAVILLE
It’s always 5:00 somewhere! Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville is home to America’s #1 voted burger by Orlando Magazine. Combining the flavors of Key West and the Caribbean, Margaritaville is a full -service restaurant serving island-inspired cuisine. The restaurant also features 3 different bars: The Volcano Bar (with a real volcano!), the Land Shark, and the 12 Volt Bar. With Live Music It is the perfect place to share some appetizers and enjoy a drink or two while listening to some island tunes.
FOUR RIVERS SMOKEHOUSE
A place that started in a garage, with a man determined to bring Texas style BBQ to Central Florida. Features some of the best slow cooked barbeque that was never supposed to be a restaurant. The purpose of creating this was to help the less-fortunate and giving back to community. John Rivers, the owner, fell in love with briskets after visiting Texas with his wife. Sooner than later, became thirteen restaurants all over the south. Most customers state that it is, “The best BBQ in Florida!”
HARD ROCK CAFÉ
The biggest café location in the world is located at Universal City Walk. No need to go into the parks for this one, you can enjoy live music, food and great drinks at this location. This location has the iconic suit that Elvis wore in the Viva Las Vegas movie, fragments of Pete Townshend’s custom guitar, Buddy Holly’s glasses, and a huge collection of The Beatles memorabilia. Don’t forget to ask the host about the secret tour and get a behind the scenes view of some of the most valuable pieces of the rock music industry.
PLANET HOLLYWOOD
Do you really like the Hard Rock Café, but maybe want to try something a bit different? Check out the newly redesigned Planet Hollywood in Disney Springs, where you can eat, sing, and dance all at once! As soon as you walk in, you start receiving the VIP experience. Enjoy lunch or dinner on over 4 expansive floors with various Movie Screens strategically placed throughout the restaurant. It’s like an IMAX theater with food! World-Famous Chef Guy Fieri has recently updated and expanded the menu, putting his signature flavor twists on many of the featured items.
