Things to do in Orlando

There is more to Orlando than the famed theme parks which, amazing as they are, also mean long lines and pricey tickets. That said, we thought we'd put together some options for those of you looking to opt for some more local thrills and outdoor fun. Along with a glimpse at Orlando's thriving local arts and culture scene.

Best Things to do in Orlando

Golfing In Orlando| Orlando

Orlando is a golfer's paradise. The city is home to more pro golfers than any other city in the world and has been voted the "North American Golf Destination of the Year." Offering more than a 170 golf courses and a yearly host of prestigious golf tournaments, any golfing enthusiast will have a hard time passing up the opportunity for a turn at the green. Top courses include: Bay Hill Club & Lodge, Waldorf Astoria Club, and Grand Cypress Resort.

Boggy Creek Airboat Tour| Boggy Creek

Glide across the Florida everglades on an airboat tour where you'll find exotic birds, turtles and the famous Florida alligators wallowing in their natural environment. Great for the family and kids, you can also choose to visit their Native American Village, or grab a bite at their Boggy Bottom BBQ.

Orlando Biplane Tours| Cocoa Beach

Experience the thrill of riding in an open-cockpit biplane, cruising over the Banana River and the 10,000 Islands area, teeming with Pelicans, Manatees, and Dolphins. Choose from a number of different tour packages, each varying in length and vistas, or even upgrade to experience some aerobatics. While not for the faint of heart, this is quite the experience.

Harry P. Leu Botanical Gardens| Audobon Park

Orlando has more than a few parks and gardens worth seeing, but the 50-acre Harry P. Leu Gardens is likely its most impressive. This gorgeous green wonderland houses more than 1,000 rose bushes, a citrus grove, a butterfly garden, and the largest collection of camellias in North America. Located right on Lake Ivanhoe, this is a great spot to while away the day and visit the nearby spots.

Kayac Eco-Tour| Shingle Creek

Take a guided tour through Shingle Creek and learn about the history and wildlife of the creek, while enjoying the scenic views of Old Florida. You can also opt for more of an adventure and test your paddling strength as you explore Grande Lake on a kayak. Tours and rentals depart twice a day from The Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott at Grande Lakes, so put together a group and book in advance.

Culture & Arts in Orlando

Orlando Museum of Art| Lake Formosa

Founded in 1924 by a group of art enthusiasts, the museum presents exhibitions of local, national and international works, and provides educational and outreach programs in the visual arts.

Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art| Winter Park

As peculiar as it may sound, this museum houses the largest collection of Tiffany glass in the world, From leaded-glass windows to jewelry, art glass, and pottery, and debuting a $5 million Tiffany Wing in 2011. Along with various other architectural objects. A great stop for anyone visiting the historic neighborhood of Winter Park, the beautiful collection is an interesting exhibit, to say the least.

Cornell Fine Arts Museums| Winter Park

While in Winter Park, you might also enjoy a walk through this collection of over 5,000 works, ranging from antiquity to contemporary, featuring numerous European Old Masters, and a sizable American art collection, including the Alfond Collection of Contemporary Art.

Dr. Philips Center for the Performing Arts| Dowtown Orlando

Hosting renowned performers for Broadway, pop, rock, jazz, dance and more, the performing arts center is a premier Orlando venue. Check out their show schedule, or at least stop by for a quick glance of this amazing modern structure. Although we do recommend catching one of their shows. Ballet lovers, in particular, will appreciate the combination of classical and contemporary pieces.

Also, try not to miss CityArts, downtown’s largest collective of art galleries for both local and international works. And if you still have the time, Thornton Park’s "Wine Walk + Art Stroll" happens every second Thursday of the month.

Orlando Science Center| Lake Formosa

Lastly, the Orland Science Center is a definite must for those visiting the city with family. This amazing facility offers four floors of engaging exhibits, amazing giant screen movies and various live programs that promote the learning of science and technology in a fun, family-friendly environment.