Orlando has alot more than just Disney and Universal. Here are a few recommendations of "Off the Beaten Path" places to see:

Downtown Orlando

The heart of Orlando, The downtown area is filled with not only unique modern skyscrapers, but also rich in history and local arts and enterntainment. Be sure to take a stroll on Lake Eola Park, a beautifull area of downtown where you will find the famous Lake Eola Fountain (picture-perfect spot), the Walt Disney Amphitheater, and many unique shops, sidewalk cafes, and restaurants along Thornton Park. At Heritage Square you can find the Orange County Regional History Center (historical building) and the impressive Orlando Public Library. Church Street is currently under major re-development but is still accesible and will soon feature many new restaurants and shops. Also be sure to follow Orange Avenue to the Orlando City Hall and the Westin Grand Bohemian Hotel, the perfect place to enjoy a fine dining experience at The Boheme restaurant or just stop by for some coffee at Starbucks Coffee also located inside the hotel. If you have time, also be sure to checkout the latest performance at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre or catch an Orlando Magic NBA Basketball Game or a big concert at the Amway Arena. The Downtown Orlando area is easily accessible from both Interstate 4 and Toll 408 (East-West Expressway). For more information on Downtown Orlando visit this website: www.downtownorlando.com

Orlando Arts & Culture District

Be sure to visit Lock Haven Park, a beautifull historic park home to the Orlando Museum of Art, the exciting Orlando Science Center, the Orlando Shakespeare Theater, the Orlando Repertory Theatre, and the historic Orlando Fire Museum. The Orlando Science Center recently hosted the world-famous exhibit "Our Body: The Universe Within" drawing thousands to the center. Current exhibits at OSC include the Titanic Exhibition and other exhibits, the center also features the impressive Dr. Phillips Cinedome, a massive IMAX dome-screen theater with a unique variety of fascinating films.

Harry P. Leu Gardens

Harry P. Leu Gardens is a beautiful botanical garden and historic plantation. There are many types of plants and flowers and gardens to walk through. They have plant sales periodically through the year that gives you free admission into this attraction. Also, Monday before noon there is free admission every week. Leu Gardens also hosts weddings and concerts. The concerts are usually Jazz bands that you are allowed to bring a picnic and lay out under the stars to watch in the evenings. Visit the park website for more information: www.leugardens.org

Park Avenue & Historic Winter Park

This is a beautifull historic area just north of Downtown Orlando. Winter Park is a historic suburb of Orlando famous for its tree-lined brick streets, the prestigous Rollins College, the Morse Museum of American Fine Art and many fine shops and sidewalk cafes. A must-see for historical enthusiasts, shoppers, artists, and couples seeking a romantic experience. For more information in this area visit this website: www.parkave-winterpark.com

Vietnam District

In the north-easter section of Downtown Orlando you will find a large section of many interesting shops and restaurants with very authentic Thai, Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine.  This area includes stores that sell anything from Asian DVDs to specialty foods and furnishings.

Additional Activities

Orlando Fashion Square Mall is a nice two-story indoor mall, the closest mall to Downtown Orlando. The mall is popular among locals due to its convenient proximity to the city center. Mall anchors include Macy's, Premier Cinemas, JC Penny, Sears, and Dillard's.

Baldwin Park is a beautifull residential development that features an impressive town center filled with shops, sidewalk cafes, and restaurants. A nice place to enjoy lunch or to take in the sunny Orlando weather.

Bike paths are a plenty in Orlando.  There is a really nice bike system in this city and many miles of pathways. For more information on Orlando's many city parks and trails visit the city website at: www.cityoforlando.net

College Park -  Located just north of downtown, a beatuifull area filled with restaurants and stores, popular among immediate locals.