Tours

Orlando is best known for its status as one of America's best theme-park destinations; however many visitors are surprised to find that there's more to the city than Disney. 

Walt Disney World

Exploring all that Walt Disney World has to offer takes at least a weekend. With the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, the Animal Kingdom and Cirque du Soleil, plus tons of fantastic restaurants, like Baskerville's, you're sure to be kept entertained.

Orlando Science Center

Visit the Orlando Science Center, which contains several interactive exhibits and a planetarium. The Harry P. Leu Gardens is filled with hundreds of trees and large, lush rose gardens, while the nearby Howell Branch Nature Preserve, a quiet sanctuary for birds, is worth exploring. Admire the architecture of the Calvary Assembly Of God, then grab a burger at 310 Park South.

Universal Studios

Visit Universal Studios, with its two parks, and the nearby Citywalk. Also in this area, you'll find SeaWorld, Cypress Gardens and Wet 'n Wild. There are also many good restaurants to choose from, such as the classy Morton's of Chicago.

Orlando Museum of Art

Downtown, the Orlando Museum of Art and the Mennello Museum of American Folk Art both house substantial collections, while the smaller Thomas Kinkade Signature Gallery focuses on work by the famous artist. Admire the architecture at the First Presbyterian Church of Orlando, then enjoy a hearty meal at Harvey's Bistro.

Orange County Regional History Center

Adjacent to the Heritage Square Courtyard is the Orange County Regional History Center, which contains pieces dating as far back as the Seminole Wars. The nearby Lake Eola Park provides picturesque trails. When you're through, walk over to the bustling Wall Street Plaza and dine at the European Globe cafe.

If you want to take a guided tour there are a lot of options. Glide along in an airboat, relax on the deck of a boat, or fly high in a balloon. There are many different ways to see Orlando.

Walking Tours

The Green Barn On The Lake ( +1 407 847 3559 ) Disney Wilderness Preserve ( +1 407 935 0002/ http://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/florida/preserves/art5523.html )

Air Tours

Orange Blossom Balloons, Inc. ( +1 407 894 5040/ http://www.orangeblossomballoons.com/ )

Blue Water Balloons ( +1 407 894 5040/ http://www.bluewaterballoons.com )

SkyScapes Balloon Tours ( +1 407 421 9322/ http://www.skyscapesballoontours.com ) Orlando Balloon Rides ( +1 800 586 1884/ http://www.orlandoballoonrides.com/ )

Boat Tours

Aquatic Wonders Boat Tours ( +1 407 846 2814/ http://www.Florida-Nature.com/ )

Heritage Lake Tours ( +1 352 343 4337 )

Airboat Tours

Boggy Creek Airboat Rides ( +1 407 344 9550/ http://www.bcairboats.com )

Bill's Airboat Adventures ( +1 407 977 3214 / http://www.airboating.com )

Horseback Tours

Horse World Riding Stables ( +1 407 847 4343/ http://www.horseworldstables.com )