Once upon a time, Central Florida was a land of orange groves, pastures, and lakes, and Orlando was a modest metropolis surrounded by a smattering of small towns and quiet retirement communities. That was before a certain cartoon mouse set up shop, launching a tourism industry that now attracts more visitors than New York, Paris, or London. Major theme parks, now numbering more than a dozen, remain a major draw, but there’s more to discover.
The region continues to evolve, earning an international reputation in the conference and convention arena and offering an increasingly sophisticated and eclectic collection of dining, entertainment, and leisure opportunities. Upscale enclaves such as Winter Park and Windermere support a thriving arts and fine dining scene. Kissimmee blends cowboy culture and wetlands, and Mount Dora charms with a genteel lakeside lifestyle. Adding to the appeal, Central Florida provides options for everyone from budget-conscious families arriving by minivan to first-class fliers seeking a five-star experience.
