Orlando is the theme park capital of the world for good reason. With such attractions as Walt Disney World Orlando, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and Epcot – Walt Disney World to name a few, you can hardly turn a corner in Orlando without hitting a theme park.
But, what about the hidden gems? Orlando also has some little-known treats for those who want more than theme parks. So, let’s unpack 5 Hidden Gems in Orlando, Florida.
#1 Leu Gardens
Located on N Forest Ave, Leu Gardens is a beautiful park with serene and beautiful gardens. Leu Gardens boasts a large collection of plants, shrubs, and trees in a lovely lakeside setting.
The tropical gardens sprawl across 50 acres of landscaped grounds and streams, with meandering trails shaded by 200-year-old oaks and forests. The gardens are open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. Prices start at $15 for adults and $10 for youngsters.
#2 Paddling Center at Shingle Creek
Located on Vine St in Kissimmee, Florida, the Paddling Center at Shingle Creek offers a relaxing break from the typical Orlando Attraction. The paddling center actually puts you in the headwaters of the Everglades to perhaps paddle along five miles of pristine cypress forest and marshes.
You can also hire kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards to make it interesting. The park is open daily from 8 AM to 7 PM. Available starting at $65 are boat tours, Eco tours, Kayaking, and canoeing.
#3 Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive
Located on Lust Rd in Apopka, Florida, Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive is a nature reserve that offers chances for Wildlife Photos, Bird Watching, Nature Photography, and more. The lake provides the biggest bang for your buck as it is absolutely FREE to enjoy each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
#4 SAK Comedy Lab
Located on Orange Rd in Orlando, SAK Comedy Lab is a 250-seat improv comedy theater. Named Orlando’s “Best Comedy Club” by the Orlando Weekly, SAK’s offers, for all ages, weekend shows where comedians use audience input to make up characters, songs, and scenes on the spot.
Beer and wine are also served, and visitors can check out other divisions for improv and standup classes as well as corporate entertainment and training services. Hours are below:
- Wednesday 1 PM – 5 PM
- Thursday 1 PM – 5 PM
- Friday 1 PM – 5 PM
- Saturday 1 PM – 3 PM
- Sunday Closed
- Monday Closed
- Tuesday 1 PM – 5 PM
#5 Orange County Regional History Center
Located on Central Blvd in downtown Orlando, Orange County Regional History Center tells the entire history of the region. It highlights the key moments in Central Florida history, from the native inhabitants to the arrival of a certain Mickey Mouse and how it changed the city. The cost ranges from 0 to $8. Hours follow:
- Wednesday 9 AM – 4 PM
- Thursday 9 AM – 4 PM
- Friday 9 AM – 4 PM
- Saturday Closed
- Sunday Closed
- Monday 9 AM – 4 PM
- Tuesday 9 AM – 4 PM
Be sure and stay up to speed on all the hot spots and sweet destinations in Florida.
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