Orlando skyline
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Orlando
by Lesley Tkaczyk Miller
Vibrant Orlando may be well known, but the city itself is not known well by most of its visitors. It’s an ever-changing, always-alluring destination that enchants even those who aren’t there to see the area’s iconic theme parks.
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts at dusk
DR. PHILLIPS CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
While the excitement of Universal Studios Florida and the magic of Walt Disney World Resort are undeniable, visitors who venture off the beaten path will find a trove of natural, cultural and culinary delights. In fact, Orlando quickly morphs from a theme park capital to a capital for the arts, with the two-block-long Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts as its the heart. Here, immerse yourself in Broadway shows, ballets, symphonies and more in several performance spaces, including the new Judson’s Live—an intimate, table-style-seating venue designed for stellar acoustics that offers a curated, scratch-kitchen menu.
EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival
disney
The culinary scene in Orlando is eclectic and delectable. Visit the East End Market to sample artisanal foods, or time your trip with the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, an autumn extravaganza that celebrates cuisines from around the globe. The city also boasts an impressive 51 Michelin-starred restaurants. A fun, budget-friendly way to experience as many restaurants as possible is to visit during Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining event, held for six weeks starting in August, when you can enjoy three-course, prix-fixe menus at many of Orlando’s best restaurants.
To plan your magical Disney getaway or dream vacation, visit AAA.com/Disney today.
Wekiwa Springs State Park
While Orlando’s main attractions draw many visitors, those in the know flock to Wekiwa Springs State Park on the northern side of the city. Here, you can canoe, swim or leisurely float in a natural spring, a refreshing antidote to Florida’s summer heat. For a serene break in the city proper, Harry P. Leu Gardens offers a botanical escape on the shores of Lake Rowena. Spanning nearly 50 acres, these gardens, with their rose garden, butterfly garden and tropical stream garden, are a haven of tranquility and a testament to the region’s lush flora.
Basing out of what’s known as City District, Orlando’s downtown hub, puts you within 30 minutes of the city’s other tourism draws and walking distance to other urban neighborhoods and main streets to view outstanding murals, pop into retro watering holes or enjoy dining al fresco on a balmy evening in Orlando.
Need a place to stay near all the theme park action? Consider this AAA Diamond Resort.
Illume rooftop lounge terrace, JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek
MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Nestled within the gates of Walt Disney World but still in easy reach of downtown, the AAA Four Diamond JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa is the perfect blend of luxury and fun. The resort feels like a calm, tropical oasis with its swaying palm trees, floor-to-ceiling windows and soothing color palette.
Guests can hop on a quick shuttle to get to Disney Springs and Walt Disney World Resort, but that’s just one reason families love to stay here. The resort’s recently added collection of Family Suites features kid-friendly loft beds and elements, including a chalkboard wall and space to play that help make “It’s time to go back to the hotel” not sound like a punishment. For parents dreaming of a night to themselves, the Kid’s Night Out program offers an evening filled with games, crafts and movies to keep youngsters entertained.
Family suite, JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek
The resort’s proximity to Orlando’s famous attractions is complemented by its own on-site experiences. Guests can sit down at seven dining venues or unwind at the Spa by JW, which presents a full menu of treatments that can ease sore muscles after days filled with too much fun. With two sparkling pools and a rooftop terrace perfect for nightly views of Disney fireworks, the JW Marriott ensures that every stay is as magical as the surrounding theme parks. Plus, AAA Members can save 5% or more with AAA Rates while earning Marriott Bonvoy™ points.
Ready for your Orlando adventure? Contact your local AAA Travel Agent to help you with all your vacation needs, including booking the delightful JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa.