Despite having lived in Central Florida for almost nine (9!) years, much the area remains largely unexplored for me. It has more to offer than the syrupy sweet Disney fare and the overpriced theme parks; okay, so maybe some of it is just as touristy but what’s wrong with that?
- Gatorland. A friend once told me that someone they knew was terrified of virtually every pool of water in Florida because there are sure to be giant man-eating gators in every one. How about 110-acres of gator-lovin’ wilderness? Tickets are pretty cheap at $20 a pop and you can often find coupons around town.
- Kennedy Space Center. All the politics aside, the space program is just plain awesome. Who hasn’t wanted to be an astronaut at some point in their lives? I’ve always wanted to go to the Space Center but never quite managed; maybe it’s sour grapes. The one time I drove all the way out there to watch a shuttle launch, they canceled it shortly before the actual launch time. It’s $38 for an adult ticket but, again, coupons and promotional codes can be easily found.
- Harry P. Leu Gardens. It’s a garden. It’s pretty. What more do you need? (Especially if you’re even remotely into photography.) For only $7 an adult, this is definitely a great deal!
- Orlando Science Center. Whenever I have an excuse to go to Tampa, I try to visit the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI). Between the visiting exhibits, permanent exhibits, true IMAX theater (a real one, all dome-shaped and everything), butterfly garden, and planetarium… you never really run out of things to see! The OSC offers a similar experience, including an IMAX theater. Tickets are $17 for adults.
- Renningers Florida. Located in Mt. Dora, I’ve heard great things about the antique flea market. Now that I’m a homeowner trying to decorate, I’m more than ready to explore 117 acres of flea market goodness! It’s separated into two spaces, one housing the antique center and the other offering a regular flea market and a farmers market. Can anyone say road trip??
- Orlando Ghost Tour. While the website (www.hauntedorlando.com) seems to be down, I’m hoping the tours are still available. Okay, so I really want to take a haunted tour of New Orleans but this could be just as juicy. Imagine: the ghosts of boy bands long since faded into obscurity, crooning their bubblegum pop tunes as they roam the recording studios! Well, I’m sure the tour guides have far more interesting tales and histories to offer. The advertised price is $25 but, well, I just hope the tour company itself hasn’t joined the ranks of the dead.
I’m sure the list will grow as I keep stumbling across things. Just call me the Central Florida Wanderer… well, don’t because I haven’t actually gone to any of these places yet.
