Home to no less than seven of the world’s most popular theme parks, Orlando has earned its title of Theme Park Capital of the World. Whether you like your thrills on dry land or on the water, with cartoon characters or international exploration as a theme, or built around roller coasters or childhood toys, there is something here for everyone, both young and young at heart.

This sunny destination in central Florida has long been a top choice for vacationers in search of year-round warm weather and endless opportunities for family entertainment, but this metropolitan city has so much more to offer beyond the theme park gates. Explore a little off the beaten path and you’ll find thrumming nightlife, a burgeoning arts scene, great shopping of both the mega-outlet and independent boutique varieties, and a hip, up-and-coming restaurant district. Start your days with a fresh-squeezed juice from a trendy Milk District cafe, and end them watching the sunset over Lake Eola. For further ventures into nature, the area’s wetlands of lakes and swamps offer all you’ll need, and no worries about the scaly crocodiles or alligators showing up — Orlando is generally gator-free.

Arriving at Orlando International Airport (MCO) will put you just a 20-minute drive from downtown. If you prefer not to rent a car, you’ll have no problem accessing the city by public transit: the SunRail electric train system links to the airport via the local Lynx bus network, and whizzes through Orlando and three other nearby counties. Otherwise, hopping on a shuttle or in a taxi or using a ride-hailing service is easily done. Within Orlando, navigating by public transport is very doable, and there are bus stops that will get you to within easy walking distance of all the major theme parks.

The weather in Orlando is known for being warm and mild year-round, but the temperatures definitely do fluctuate by season. Summers tend to be hot and muggy, while autumn is the rainy hurricane season, making the sunnier, drier seasons of spring and winter much more popular times to visit. Snowbirds escaping colder climes flock here from November through February. School holidays in December, March, and the summer are always particularly popular with families looking to spend their vacations at the theme parks, so if you’re planning to be here during these times, be sure to book your vacation rentals in Orlando well ahead of time.

Lake Eola

Lake Eola sits in the centre of downtown Orlando like a sapphire sparkling in the sunlight. A walking path traces the circumference of the lake, making it a pretty spot to stretch your legs and take in the shimmering reflection of the downtown skyline on the water. Rent a swan-shaped paddle boat, watch a movie or some live theatre at the amphitheatre, or simply enjoy dinner with a view at one of the many waterside restaurants.

Milk District

This up-and-coming neighbourhood has become a foodie destination thanks to its Tasty Takeover food truck nights every Tuesday. When not snacking on birria tacos and artisanal doughnuts, take in some live music, hit up quirky independent shops, or design your own cafe and juice bar crawl.

Orlando Science Center

Orlando has a booming aerospace, aviation, and biotechnology industry, so it’s no surprise that its science museum is top-notch. They offer plenty of exhibits to inspire the next generation of engineers, astronauts, and researchers, along with STEM Discovery Center educational programs for students. While here, make sure to visit the observatory, where you can stargaze at Jupiter and Saturn up-close.