Orlando Off the Beaten Track: Family Guide

Orlando is one of the most popular US family destinations, and for good reason. It is impossible to be bored in Orlando, and the weather is fantastic. As well as plenty of outdoor attractions, there are numerous shops, restaurants, and luxury destinations for families to visit and enjoy.

Some of Orlando’s most popular attractions are Disneyworld, Sea World, and Aqualand; however, there are many less well-known attractions in Orlando that are off the beaten track, and which offer families the chance to experience a completely unique vacation, and to spend some excellent family time together. Having access to a vehicle in Orlando allows access to some of Orlando’s less prominent, but just as entertaining destinations.

Another reason that families would want to visit Orlando is the great choice of accommodations they have to offer. Families can choose anything from large, luxury hotels with huge swimming pools and leisure facilities, to small and intimate B&Bs. Most accommodation in Orlando are family friendly.

Blue Springs State Park

Situated in Orange City, the Blue Springs State Park is designated as a Manatee Refuge. It has warm crystal clear water that is over 73 degrees, and visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, canoeing, and even scuba diving. Wildlife trails and boat tours can also be enjoyed. Blue Springs State Park is an excellent destination for families as it is a lovely, natural location with plenty of different water sports to be enjoyed.

Winter Park

Winter Park is a truly unique destination. It is home to Rollins College, Isle of Sicily, Kraft Azalea Gardens, some amazing mansion houses, and hundreds of different species of tropical plants, birds and flowers. Families can enjoy all of Winter Park’s natural sights by taking a one hour long boat tour. The park makes a worthwhile venue for families because it encompasses natural beauty, a fantastic museum of American Art, and also plenty of shops and restaurants; there is plenty to keep families busy.

Old Town

Old Town is one of Orlando’s oldest and most diverse attractions. It has some fairground rides for the kids, souvenir stalls and other popular tourist spots, such as a gem shop and wax works. Families will love browsing the stalls and riding on the traditional fairground rides. Old Town is in a good location, near to Walt Disney World, and is a perfect for a casual stroll in the sunshine. It is inexpensive in comparison to many of Orlando’s other attractions.

Millenia Fine Art

Families interested in art should consider visiting the Millenia Fine Art Gallery. It contains numerous exhibits by a variety of artists from the last century.  The exhibits at Millenia Fine Art are displayed across 30,000 square feet of exhibition space.

Orange County History Centre

Previously the Court House, the Orange County History Centre is a very interesting, paranormal destination. Families can play around with paranormal detection equipment, and see the setting of the Ted Bundy Trial. The History Centre is a popular family destination as it offers a completely new, factual but fun experience.