Orlando is the most visited city by tourists from all around the world. It's the home of Disney World and many other amusement parks. But there's more to Orlando than roller coasters and Mickey Mouse.
O-town has amazing rooftops, beaches, and quaint villages. You'll feel like you're in a dream walking down Diagon Alley or overlooking the skyline at the Orlando Eye. If you're visiting Orlando for the first time, skip the lines at Universal Studio and explore these surreal places.
Get out of your comfort zone and explore these magical places with your BFF. Also, don't forget to wear sunblock as some of these places are super hot.
Gaylord Palms Atrium
Where: 6000 W. Osceola Pkwy, Kissimmee
No matter if it starts raining in Florida. The Gaylord Palms Resort has an alligator atrium that will make you feel like you're in the tropics. The location has many places where you can eat, stroll, and shop til' you drop. It's the perfect atrium to stay in when the weather is frightful. Also, you take pictures and pretend you're in a far away island.
Scenic Boat Tour
Where: 312 E. Morse Blvd., Winter Park
Looking for a romantic escape? This scenic boat tour will take you off-the-beaten-path. It's located on Lake Osceola in a quiet suburb, just 10 minutes away from downtown. This is a perfect option to take your date and discover flora and fauna from Florida.
Kelly Park
Where: 400 E. Kelly Park Road, Apopka
This park features a free-flowing natural spring with tube rentals. If you're looking to enjoy nature while relaxing, this is one of the best options. Especially if you've been working all week, this natural spring will relax your muscles and clear your mind. Just bring your favorite bathing suit and let nature do all the work.
De Leon Springs
Where: 601 Ponce Deleon Blvd., De Leon Springs
@firstmatekate7This place holds an amazing history and a recreational swimming area. Come for your afternoon SUP session or just lay by the cypress tree. This location has great picnic areas, boats, and a scenic view that will make you fall in love with Florida all over again. It also has a butterfly garden if you're looking for a vivid experience.
One80 Skytop Lounge
Where: 400 W. Church St.
The view from the top is always better. This rooftop lounge isn't like any other. It has a VIP room and a skyline view from downtown Orlando. Get a 180 view of the City Beautiful and be part of the fancy city dwellers from this town. Dress to impress before arriving, and you'll blend in with the crowd.
Lakeridge Winery
Where: 19239 US-27, Clermont
Wine down at the Florida vineyards. The 127-acre estate has excellent wine and complimentary tours of the vineyards. If you're looking to expand your knowledge about wine, you can take a wine tasting tour and learn about the grapes harvested in this surreal location. It's the closest you can get to a California vineyard Instagram style post.
Mayan Courtyard
Where: 231 W. Packwood Ave., Maitland
This is a national historic landmark with breathtaking views. The courtyard has a unique atmosphere and an enchanting chapel enhanced by ornate sculptures. Get lost in Mayan culture and explore the beautiful landscape that resides in the garden. This is a perfect place to plan a proposal and let her say Yes!
Palmer's Garden and Goods
Where: 2611 Corrine Drive
They say the best place to find God is in a garden. You'll be doing so much digging at this location that is probably true. Come and stroll the gardens and get a souvenir for your home. The staff will help you with tips on indoor plants and even how to build a terrarium. This place is just more than plants and surreal as it gets.
Grand Cypress Resort
Where: 1 Grand Cypress Blvd.
Live a fantasy vacation at this resort. The pool and amenities are to die for. When you're staying at a resort like this, there's no need to leave. You'll have everything you need at this place including a spa, an outdoor lagoon pool, hammocks, restaurants, and water slide.
Mennello Museum of American Art
Where: 900 E. Princeton St.
This museum contains a collection of paintings by Earl Cunningham and beautiful sculptures at the garden. The installations are surreal and perfect for your yoga poses. The museum also hosts event galas and festivals for the community.
Rock Springs Run
Where: 30601 County Road 433, Sorrento
@jenifferhsettiThis 14,000-acre state park is like Neverland. You will feel like you're in the Amazons while exploring the 17 miles of trails. You can go biking, hiking, and horseback riding around the natural beauty reserve. You can enjoy the river or go hunting with your Southern friends.
Ponce Inlet
Where: 4931 S Peninsula Dr, Ponce Inlet
This place is a residential haven for those seeking peace and silence. The small town lifestyle and beach are perfect for those looking to escape the business of city life. You'll feel like right out of a movie from Nicholas Sparks.
Sebastian Inlet State Park
Where: 9700 South Highway A1A, Melbourne Beach
This is a beach lover's paradise. You can fish, stroll around the pier, or ride the waves at this surreal beach spot. Nothing like getting a fresh breeze from the Atlantic.
Playalinda Beach
Where: Canaveral National Seashore
Get that tan before the holidays at Playalinda Beach. This beach is peaceful, unique and perfect for your #mermaidlife Insta post. If you think South Beach is everything there is then you need to make the drive to this paradisiac spot.
Florida Citrus Tower
Where: 141 US-27, Clermont
If life gives you oranges, make juice. This 226-foot-tall structure allows visitors to observe the orange groves around the city. Now it is one of the best kept landmarks in the city. You can take a tour up and observe Orlando in a 360-degree-view.
Guang Ming Temple
Where: 6555 Hoffner Ave.
The Buddhist temple will help you enhance your spiritual growth and also inspire you to live a better life. The architecture of this place is very different from other places in Orlando. If flying to Asia is too expensive, here you'll learn about Chinese culture and the many valuable traditions.
Lake Eola Park
Where: 195 N Rosalind Ave
@orlandoThe public park located in downtown feels pretty private. Hop in one of the swan boats and watch the sunset in the middle of the lake. This place is the perfect escape from that happy hour invitation. Here you can get a panoramic view of Orlando and the city lights without hearing the noise.
ICON Orland Observation Wheel
Where: 8449 International Dr
Feel iconic and on top of the world at the ICON Orlando. If you're looking for surreal views, the Orlando Eye has the perfect 360-degree view. Bring your date for a ride and kiss her when you reach the top.
Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
Where: 5601 Universal Blvd
You'll swear you're actually in Europe when you come here. This hotel is right by the bay and it has a picturesque view. The cobblestone streets and colorful buildings feel like an Italian village. Explore the different restaurants and shops at this luxurious hotel. By the end of the night you'll have acquired an Italian accent and be saying: Dolce! Dolce! Dolce!
Marvel Superhero Island
Where: Islands of Adventure
The Marvel superheroes are alive and hiding in this surreal island at Islands of Adventure. The island has amazing attractions and shops to purchase your favorite comics. Maybe you'll end up meeting your friendly neighbor, Spider Man!
Winter Park Village
Where: 510 Orlando Ave, Winter Park
The outdoor mall has a unique charm and atmosphere. The many quaint restaurants and boutiques make you feel like a tourist. Throw a penny into a water fountain and make a wish. After all, dreams always come true in Orlando.
Diagon Alley
Where: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando
Have you ever had butter beer? Universal Studios is home to one of the best alleys in the world. Diagon Alley is as surreal as it can get. You can discover the many magical shops and also buy a wand like Harry Potter. You'll be making magic spells by the time you leave the alley.
Ripley's Believe It or Not!
Where: 8201 International Dr, Orlando
To see is to believe. Or at least that's the norm at this unusual museum. Here you'll find rare animal skeletons and shrunken human heads. All weirdos are welcomed at this place.
Orlando Balloon Rides
Where: 44294 US Highway 27
If you want to have an over-the-top experience, ride a balloon. Your eyes won't believe how magical Orlando is. Fly high up and watch the sunrise. This is the best way to start your weekend.
Now that you're convinced of how magical this city is, time to pack the bags and go for an adventure. This city has all you've dreamed of and even those dreams you haven't thought of yet.
