The best things to do in Florida this summer from theme parks to manatee boat rides
WITH the Gulf’s awesome beaches, amazing wildlife and golf courses galore, it’s no surprise Florida is always a favourite for sun-and-fun holidays.
But the Sunshine State is also incredibly diverse – and nowhere more so than , the city whose appeal stems from world-renowned theme parks, amazing outdoor adventures and Michelin-starred dining.
“My family and I love Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios,” she says. “From the rides to the drinks at Oga’s Cantina, there’s something for everyone.”
Stick with the wildlife theme on the Great Florida Birding Trail – which has 17 locations in the Orlando area – where you’ll be in for brushes with bald eagles, burrowing owls, sandhill cranes and roseate spoonbills.
More leisurely boat rides are available closer to town. “There’s a fantastic scenic boat tour on the chain of lakes around Winter Park,” reveals Rachel.
“You can hire a boat for a private group or join others to sail past waterside mansions before being dropped off near Park Avenue to discover its shops and restaurants.
“For food and drink, I recommend Ava, ABO (Atlantic Beer & Oyster) and The Wine Room.”
Global grub
Other restaurants worth seeking out across Orlando include Bull & Bear at the Waldorf Astoria for fine dining.
Or try any of the 40 eateries in the current Michelin Guide that cover a wide range of cuisines – from Ethiopian at Selam and American at Maxine’s on Shine to Filipino at Kaya and Japanese with a Floridian twist at Soseki.
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Rooms for manoeuvre
Orlando has great places to stay that will suit all tastes and budgets
Those looking to splash some cash could choose one of the most luxurious hotels in Orlando: the Waldorf Astoria. Sophisticated and elegant, it comes with benefits such as complimentary shuttles and early entry to the Disney parks.
Shuttle service to all the main parks is also a perk for guests at near Celebration, a purpose-built small town with stacks of charm. Resort fees are waived when booking with Travel Republic, for stays of eight nights or more. You could stay for seven nights room only (with direct flights on British Airways from London Gatwick), departing September 6, 2023 from £770pp, based on two adults sharing.
Let the theme parks come to you at the , another Disney-area option, whose freeform pool has its own water slide. Here, a seven-night stay, including direct flights with Aer Lingus from Manchester departing September 4, 2023 costs from £937pp, based on two adults sharing.
Stay even closer to the action at , which sits on attraction-rich International Drive.
You could opt for a self-catering stay in Kissimmee at , whose one to eight-bedroom properties are a rarity in Orlando. A seven-night break with direct flights with Aer Lingus from Manchester, departing October 9, 2023 costs from £1,312pp, based on two adults sharing.
Alternatively, try , a gated community close to quirky Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park. For seven nights’ accommodation and direct flights with Aer Lingus from Manchester departing September 25, 2023 it costs from £1,214pp, based on two adults sharing.
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