Orlando, one of the most-visited cities globally, is home to major events and major events. As of 2019, it was the fourth-most visited city in the U.S., following New York City, Miami, and Los Angeles. Orlando International Airport is the 13th-busiest in the country and the 29th-busiest globally. The area's two largest tourist attractions are Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort, both of which are internationally renowned. Explore Orlando by DTW flight bookings to Orlando.
Universal Studios' E.T.'s Adventure is their final original ride.
Orlando's theme park, Universal City-Walk, opened in 1964 and has since replaced all but one of its original attractions. Carl Laemmle, a film producer, created Universal Studios in 1912. The park, which opened in the 1960s, features 65 venues and has been a popular attraction for almost 30 years. The park's original attractions, like E.T. Adventure, have been replaced by new ones.
Melbourne Beach, Brevard County's oldest beach community.
Melbourne Beach, located 80 nautical miles from Orlando, has a rich history dating back to the 1500s when Juan Ponce de León discovered "La Florida" just a few nautical miles away. Originally incorporated in 1883, Melbourne Beach offers a serene escape from the throng of tourist beaches, offering a beautiful coastline and a perfect family beach for small children.
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Florida's Space Coast is known as the "East Coast Surf Capital."
Dick Catri, a renowned surfer, has made Cocoa Beach a popular destination for surfers. The surfing legend, who represented America at the 1967 Duke Kahanamoku Invitational, is inducted into the Surfing Hall of Fame. Catri organized competitions at Cocoa Beach Pier, now known as the Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier, attracting local surf legends like Kelly Slater and Todd Holland. Even non-surfers should consider visiting Cocoa Beach Pier.
Orlando opens Gatorland as its first theme park.
Disney's Magic Kingdom, the alligator capital of the world, opened in 1949 and offers thrilling zip line rides, newborn crocodiles, capybaras, and 2,000 American alligators. Gatorland, also known as the "Alligator Capital of the World," offers a variety of attractions and experiences for visitors.
In 1908, Orlando was given its nickname.
Orlando, known as "The City Beautiful," gained its charming nickname in 1908 through a contest. Jesse Branch, inspired by its vibrant blossoms and greenery, recommended the name. Today, Orlando's magnificent palms, towering trees, and expansive parks continue to captivate people.
Orlando Created the Backstreet Boys.
Orlando's Backstreet Market, inspired by Lou Pearlman, is a flea market where the 90s boy band used to hang out. Although no longer in operation, the OBT Flea Market offers hidden gems and local food and produce. The American record producer's name is derived from the market's name.
Orlando Has More Than 100 Parks.
Orlando, known for its vibrant downtown sector, boasts over 100 beautiful parks, including Lake Eola Park and Lake Louisa State Park. The City Beautiful offers a variety of natural areas, including swan boats on Lake Eola and picnics. Visitors can explore green spots, beaches, cities, and theme parks, making a trip to these destinations a rejuvenating experience.
Orlando is home to one of the world's largest McDonald's.
McDonald's Epic McD. in Orlando offers over 100 arcade games, a big Ronald McDonald, and standard chain cuisine, including pizza and pasta. This 19,000-square-foot establishment is a must-visit for fans of McDonald's and other fast-food chains.
Orlando boasts top golf courses nationwide.
Orlando ranked as one of the top 20 golfing cities in the United States by Golf Digest, boasts 24 courses within its city limits. From family-friendly courses to five-star clubs, Orlando offers a variety of options, including premium courses like Waldorf Astoria and Ritz-Carlton. Additionally, smaller courses cater to newbies and pros alike.
Orlando Was Once Part of "Mosquito County"
Orlando, the Citrus Capital of the United States, was formerly known as Mosquito County due to its abundance of insects. However, when Orlando was named the Citrus Capital, the county's name was changed to honor the renowned citrus fruit.
Orlando's Old City Hall demolition sold.
Orlando demolished its town hall, and Warner Bros. paid $50,000 for the implosion in Lethal Weapon 3, leveraging the 1991 preparations to destroy Old City Hall. The company capitalized on the idea by selling the controlled implosion to movie filmmakers. If you want to learn more about Orlando, book a flight from Detroit to Orlando.