Central Florida is home to some of the best theme parks in the world – and there is, of course, nothing wrong with that. There is no denying that such parks are a major reason for this part of the United States’ appeal to tourists.
From Walt Disney World to Universal Orlando, these attractions bring in millions of visitors each year, and play a key role in drawing in the visitors.
The fame of these parks, however, means that many people fail to appreciate the wealth of other wonders that are available across Central Florida. This is a rich, diverse region, packed with potential gems and unique experiences for all ages – and we wouldn’t want you to miss out on any of them if you do plan a trip here!
Are you keen to be inspired? From outdoor adventures to cultural gems, here are the best places to explore beyond the theme parks in Central Florida. Read on to learn more, and browse a selection of villa holidays here to give yourself even greater inspiration for your coming break.
Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale
Wekiwa Springs State Park
A trip to the Wekiwa Springs State Park near Orlando can be an excellent way to get truly acquainted with nature. This 7,000-acre park is home to 13 miles of hiking trails that wind through lush forests and past crystal-clear springs.
Visitors can also go canoeing, kayaking, or swimming, or take a guided tour of the park. It’s an ideal set of potential activities if you are looking for an excuse to get away from it all and relax in stunning surroundings.
Gatorland
As you might expect given its name, Gatorland – which is technically a theme park itself, but is also a wildlife preserve – concerns itself with, well, alligators. In fact, it’s known as the “Alligator Capital of the World”, so it’s fair to say your anticipation might be sky-high even before you turn up to this venue situated along South Orange Blossom Trail, south of Orlando.
But does this 110-acre park live up to such expectations? In a word: yes. It’s a very family-friendly place and presents you with the chance to see thousands of alligators, crocodiles, snakes, birds, and other animals native to the Sunshine State.
In addition to observing these creatures in their natural habitat, visitors can participate in educational shows, go on a zip line ride over the alligator ponds, and/or take a train ride through the park.
Bok Tower Gardens
Located in Lake Wales just outside of Orlando, the Bok Tower Gardens is a National Historic Landmark. It features acres of lush gardens and a majestic tower that was built in 1929, and which welcomes over 23 million guests every year.
Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the gardens or enjoy a guided tour of the 205-foot Singing Tower, which houses a 60-bell carillon – a fantastic experience, and a chance to try something unique while you are spending time in Florida.
The grounds also host several seasonal events throughout the year. So, our advice is to make sure you read ahead before you go to see what treats may await.
Kennedy Space Center
For a one-of-a-kind experience, check out the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex at Cape Canaveral – an attraction that’ll always be synonymous with the golden eras of United States space travel.
Visitors can explore the Rocket Garden, take an up-close look at a retired space shuttle, and learn about the history of American space exploration.
The complex also offers a variety of shows, interactive exhibits, and guided tours. As a visitor, you’ll be learning so many things that’ll make you wonder,
“that’s amazing, how did I not know that?”
Central Florida Zoo
Wherever you are in the world with your family at any one time, a visit to the nearest zoo might seem a sensible way to while away some time – and the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens in Sanford does not disappoint.
With a history dating back to the 1920s – when it was known as the Sanford Municipal Zoo – Central Florida Zoo is home to more than 500 animals from across the globe. Much more importantly, it also plays a key role in conservation and animal welfare efforts.
In addition to observing some of the world’s most magnificent creatures, visitors can participate in interactive programs like animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours.
The zoo also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, giving tourists even greater opportunity to get up close and personal with some amazing animals.
Great Florida Reef
Another utterly enchanting slice of Florida wildlife can be found at the Great Florida Reef. Located off the coast of Central Florida, this 800-mile coral reef is home to thousands of species of fish and other marine life.
As a visitor, you might be tempted to go snorkelling or scuba diving in order to observe these remarkable creatures at close quarters in their natural habitat. It is the only living reef to be found in the US, so you can be sure that it’ll provide you with the experience of a lifetime.
Everglades National Park
Outdoor experiences in Florida really don’t come much more distinctive – dare we say, unique – than Everglades National Park. This vast wetland on the southern tip of Florida is no less than the United States’ largest tropical wilderness, so you won’t be surprised to learn that it is home to hundreds of species of birds, reptiles, and fish.
The residents include some especially rare and endangered animals, including the likes of the Florida panther, American crocodile, and manatee.
Visitors can take an airboat tour of the mangroves, or go hiking and camping in the park’s 1.5 million acres of wilderness. There are frankly few better places to immerse oneself in all the remarkable wonders of nature.
Always Look Beyond the Obvious for Your Florida Break!
Of course, none of the above attractions means that you shouldn’t get hyped up about the many more “obvious” theme parks that help make Florida such a magical part of the world to visit for so many people.
Instead, the point of this article is to help draw your attention to the fact that Florida’s charms extend so far beyond the legendary theme parks.
This is a state with so much more to offer. So, we would urge you to research the region’s attractions and activities before booking any given holiday, to ensure you get the very best out of your upcoming break.
