In addition to the numerous theme parks in this central Florida city, Orlando is filled with enough activities to keep you busy from sun-up until sundown. Spend some time snorkeling in the Gulf waters or playing at Disney's large sports complex. Or you can explore the local rivers and state parks, taking in the abundance of local wildlife.
Kayaking
Spend a few hours out on a kayak paddling through the Econlockhatchee River. This tour takes you eight miles nto the moss-covered cypress forest of the Little-Big Econlockatchee State Forest. The abundance of wildlife includes birds, hawks, alligators, river otters and bald eagles. When out on the tour, stop and have a catered lunch at the Boy Scout Bridge along the Florida Trail. No kayaking experience is necessary and the tour lasts four to five hours.
Sports Facility
Located in Orlando is Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex. This multi-million dollar facility spreads over 200 acres and features more than 30 different types of sports. The park hosts baseball games, tennis events, basketball games and many more sports. When visiting, head over to The Sports Experience, which is an interactive sports playground where visitors get to play a variety of sports including basketball, soccer, baseball and football. You will get to play sports against other guests for a little friendly competition or hone individual sports skills such as clocking how fast you can throw a baseball. There also are numerous kid-friendly games in the kids' play area. As of 2010, general admission was $10 for ages 3 to 9 and $12.75 for those 10 and older.
Golf
In Orlando, there are numerous public golf courses where you can get out in the sunshine and play a round. Orange County National Golf Course is rated as the No. 1 course in Florida and the No. 2 public course in the country by GolfWorld. This 922-acre rolling course has hosted the PGA Tour's qualifying school several times. There are two championship 18-hole courses, a short 9-hole course and the largest driving range in America at this course. In addition to playing a round of golf, Orange Country National also provides golf lessons and clinics. Rates vary depending on the course, time of year and time of day, but in general rates vary between $44 to $89. As of 2010, the 9-hole course costs $8 walking and $16 with a cart.
Adventure Tour
Plan to spend half a day over at Orlando's Gatorland. This educational park is designed to give visitors an up-close experience with the Florida alligator. This 110-acre wildlife preserve includes exhibits and entertainment. While walking down a boardwalk that winds above the Florida marsh, you can see thousands of alligators and crocodiles below you. The park also features education programs, a swamp walk, petting zoo and aviary.
State Park
Nature lovers and active travelers will enjoy the Wekiwa Springs State Park, which is located just north of Orlando. This 7,000-acre park surrounds the Wekiwa River, which is fed by underground springs, keeping it a comfortable 72 degrees year round. Activities to do at the state park include kayaking, biking, horseback riding, hiking, canoeing, fishing and snorkeling. There are 13 miles of trails and canoes, kayaks and horses can be rented. The park staff also provides guided nature adventures.
Member Comments