courtesy of Smart Destinations
Now that winter has arrived, those visiting Orlando might not want to brave the cold temperatures and overcast skies. Orlando can get fairly cold in the winter, but there are still plenty of indoor activities to enjoy. Let's take a look at what there is to do in the sunny city when the temperature dips.
Museums
Orlando has all sorts of museums for those cold and dreary days. You'll stay nice and warm inside while you enjoy an array of interesting exhibitions. Check out the Orlando Museum of Art for a look into ancient and modern American and African culture. Your kids will love the Orlando Science Center as it has the largest refractor telescope in the state. There is also an on-site planetarium and four floors worth of dinosaurs and space exhibits. Orlando is also home to the Ripley's Believe It or Not Odditorium. Here, you'll find an array of oddities and optical illusions like dog sculptures created with clothespins.
Indoor Surfing
While the temperatures are too low to surf outside, you can still hang ten with indoor surfing. Ride the waves at Fantasy Surf, Orlando's sole indoor water experience. Even if you or your kids wipe out, you won't get hurt thanks to the center's padded walls, floors and soft “beach” that will cushion your fall and keep you safe.
Shopping
When the temperatures drop below 50, it is time to go shopping. Orlando boasts an incredible number of retail stores that are climate controlled to keep you and your family comfortable all day long. Head on over to Orlando Premium Outlets and shop until you drop at 180 outlet stores. You'll find brand name merchandise at retailers like BCBC and Coach. Orlando also has some amazing malls. Check out the Mall at Millenia or The Florida Mall. They are the largest malls in the city. Florida Mall has shops like Macys and Nordstroms while Millenia has a number of international stores like Zara.
Theater
While you can see a movie in any city, Orlando has some unique theater attractions. Check out the IMAX theater at AMC Universal Cineplex at City Walk where you can enjoy beer, liquor and wine. Or, check out one of Orlando's many themed dinners theater shows. Options include Medieval Times and Arabian Nights.
Disney Quest
Disney Quest is an arcade-style attraction in the downtown Disney space. It has 3 stories jam-packed with fun that the whole family will love. One of the best features is the roller coaster simulator. This lets you construct your own roller coaster and then take a ride on it. There are hundreds of other similarly cool games at Disney Quest.
Gaylord Palms Resort
The Gaylord Palms is one of a kind hotel is inspired by a number of Florida destinations. It has a 4.5 acre atrium covered in glass. You'll find “Gator Springs” here with all sorts of cool animals like alligators, stingrays, and live game fish. There's also Key West lagoon, treasures found in Florida's waters, a recreated Spanish fortress and more. After you've done some sightseeing, you can relax at the resort's restaurants and ice cream parlors. The restaurants have patios placed within the atrium so that you feel like you are sitting outdoors. This is a fantastic way to stay warm while enjoying a fun and exciting atmosphere.
Chocolate Kingdom
Head on over to Chocolate Kingdom with the family and you'll have a blast. This is an interactive factory adventure style tour that your kids will adore. You'll learn how chocolate is made from cocoa beans and you'll sample all sorts of sweets during the tour.
Courtesy of Photography MC
