Flights To Orlando

"Orlando is one of the USA's most popular vacation spots. Tourists flock from all over the world to enjoy the many theme parks and attractions. The ever-popular Disney World has seen Orlando transformed from a small town in central Florida to a sprawling metropolis of fun.

But there's plenty more to the city than Mickey Mouse and white-knuckle rides. It's definitely worth a visit even if you're not a fan of theme parks - or if you're all Disneyed out.

History buffs should pay a visit to the Orange County Regional History Center at 65 East Central Boulevard for an overview of Orlando and its surrounding area. It's 20 miles from Disney World and occupies a historic 1920s building which used to be the Orange County Courthouse. The museum charts Orlando's progress from swampland, home to Native American tribes, through to citrus plantation, cattle station and finally theme park mecca

A stroll through the residential neighborhoods downtown offers another interesting view of Orlando. Developments over the past four decades have seen property prices soar, and many old boroughs have been regenerated. Thornton Park is an arty district with traditional Florida architecture. Wandering through the streets it's easy to forget that you're within mere kilometres of Disney World.

Another famous landmark in Orlando is Lake Eola, loacted not far from Thornton Park. The lake is so integral to the city that it appears in its official logo. Eola bridges the gap between urban life and rural tranquility. You'll see joggers, picnickers, families and city workers enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. The lake area was developed during the citrus growing boom in the 1800s.

Orlando is proud of its burgeoning arts scene. It's not quite on a par with the culture found in cities further up the East Coast yet, but it's getting there. You'll find theatres, opera companies, cabarets and festivals, as well as the usual spread of one-off comedy shows and revues. The Mennello Museum of American Art on East Princeton Street displays a selection of local and national art including pieces by folk artist Earl Cunningham, and is worth a look for art fans.

Orlando's multiculturalism is another draw. There was an influx of Vietnamese immigrants in the 1970s and their influence is visible in Little Saigon near the downtown district. Visit one of the many restaurants and cafés for a taste of Asia at a very affordable price."

By Kris Barnes