4 Ways to Extend Your Stay in Orlando
By Patricia Harrison
Blessed with plentiful sunshine, an impressive roster of attractions that appeal to the young and young at heart, and a wide range of places to stay, Orlando is a popular destination for leisure travelers. But if you’re in town for business, it’s a cinch to extend your trip for an extra day or weekend to take in the best of the central Florida city—whether you are traveling solo, with co-workers or have family in tow. Read on for some examples of how to fill your itinerary, with ideas on where to stay from the TRAVELSAVERS Preferred Hotel Program.
Hit the Rides.
Since Orlando is home to more than a dozen theme parks, there are a multitude of things to do for lovers of rides and whimsical sights—ideal experiences to take in during an extra day or weekend in the city. Walt Disney World Resort offers single and multi-day park hopper passes, giving visitors flexible access to four distinctive parks. There, you can walk through a replica of a galaxy far, far away at the new Star Wars’ land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios; take selfies in front of Cinderella’s castle at the Magic Kingdom Theme Park and go nose-to-nose with a Yeti on a tour of Everest at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park.
Other fun-for-all options include: Universal Studios Florida, where you can sip Butterbeer at Hogsmeade or fight aliens like the pros in Men in Black; SeaWorld Orlando, where you can dine with the orcas, and enjoy oodles of dazzling marine-animal-themed rides; and Legoland Florida Resort, which has over 50 rides designed for kiddos age 2 to 12.
Experience Florida’s Wild Side.
Central Florida’s lush, verdant landscapes are a haven for reptiles, birds, mammals and other fascinating creatures; and you don’t have to step foot in an amusement park to see them. Gatorland is a 110-acre preserve for scaly creatures of all stripes—think: crocodiles, snakes, and turtles—along with birds and Florida bobcats. In one afternoon, you can meet some of the largest white alligators in the world and a more than 100-year-old giant tortoise named Dean. Or venture to the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey in Maitland (about 8 miles from Orlando), a sanctuary for winged beauties of Florida’s Everglades. Visit the center for the chance to spot majestic raptors in their natural habitat, which is a peaceful place for a quiet stroll.
Connect with Your Inner Beach Bum.
While Orlando may be landlocked, ocean vistas are just a short drive away. In fact, the white sands and turquoise waters of Cocoa Beach on the Sunshine State’s east coast are only roughly 60 miles from Orlando (about an hour drive). The seaside enclave—also the gateway to Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex—is the perfect day trip. Its 6 miles of beaches are popular hangouts for surfers, sunbathers, and swimmers.
Indulge in Some Serious Retail Therapy.
Orlando brims with outdoor shopping areas, including several sprawling outlet malls, and neighborhoods lined with cute boutiques, making it an ideal place to shop for souvenirs, clothing, vintage finds, and other goodies. Take advantage of discounted prices at stores like Levi’s, Marc Jacobs and Ted Baker at Orlando International Premium Outlets; or browse for finds at the two outlet malls within the International Drive (I-Drive) Resort Area. If you’re seeking more unique finds, head to areas outside the tourism district. Park Avenue in Winter Park (about 8 miles from Orlando) is lined with locally owned shops, while historic Ivanhoe Village (north of the downtown district) is known for its antique shops.
Where to Stay
The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes
This beautiful, newly renovated property has a championship-level golf course, shuttles to major theme parks, and tons of on-site outdoor activities, including mountain biking and kayaking.
Best Western Plus Universal Inn
Convenience is the draw at Best Western Plus Universal Inn, a property with comfortable, family-friendly accommodations situated within walking distance of Universal Studios’ attractions.
Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek
A 62-acre hideaway near Walt Disney World, the Wyndham Grand pampers guests with five pools, two lazy rivers, a miniature golf course and luxe spa.
Photo Credit: Seaworld - bennymarty - stock.adobe.com
