Central Florida is a wonder. Its world-class attractions, hotels, restaurants and year-round warm sunshine continue to beckon millions of visitors. With so much to see and do, this area fascinates both children and adults alike. From the rural, Old Florida feel of Highlands County to the Ocala National Forest and all the magic in between, the Central Florida region summons your exploration.
KISSIMMEE
Getting up before dawn is well worth it when you take in the sights of the theme parks and landscape from a hot-air balloon as the sun rises. Then continue your morning exploring the natural beauty of “Old Florida” as you paddle through the head-waters of the Florida Everglades at The Paddling Center. Historic Downtown Kissimmee is the perfect place for lunch as quaint Kissimmee Main Street offers great dining options, antique shopping and even ice cream made with liquid nitrogen.
ORLANDO
Begin with a beverage from Barnie’s Coffee Kitchen on Park Avenue in picturesque Winter Park. Take a Winter Park Scenic Boat tour through lush canals and peaceful lakes. Visit the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art to view the world’s largest collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany. Lunch at East End Market in trendy Audubon Park. Stop to smell the roses at Harry P. Leu Gardens. Enjoy a cocktail at The Woods in downtown Orlando. End with dinner at the French brasserie Dovecote and a performance at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
POLK COUNTY
Stop and smell the orange blossoms as you begin a day of citrus delight. Polk County offers delicious options, October through May, as one of the top citrus-producing counties in Florida. Watch citrus candy being made at Davidson of Dundee and pick up some citrus souvenirs in the gift shop. Have lunch at Lang’s Taste of Florida Café—don’t miss the award-winning grapefruit pie. Complete your day with an authentic Florida experience, picking fresh oranges from the tree at Ridge Island Groves.
SEBRING
Start with a sunrise walk along Sebring’s boardwalk or cycle through Highlands Hammock State Park. Golf the Citrus Golf Trail featuring Florida’s most affordable courses. Stroll in charming Lake Placid with nearly 50 outdoor murals and small-town shops. Lunch at McLane’s Garden Café in historic downtown Sebring, then browse through “City on a Circle” boutiques and artist galleries. Tour Avon Park’s Maxwell’s Grove House and sample the dairy-free orange ice cream. Finish with dinner at trendy n East Main and a performance at the Alan Jay Wildstein Performing Arts Center.
BEACH:
LEGO LAND Beach, Winter Haven
ATTRACTION:
Discovery Cove, Orlando
NIGHTLIFE:
Disney Springs, Lake Buena Vista
SHOPPING:
Orlando Premium Outlets
MUSEUM:
Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, Winter Park.
