Attractions

There are -- surprise! -- a number of cool things in Orlando that don't revolve around Mickey, the Hulk, or Shamu. Now that I've covered the monster parks, I'm going to explore some of Central Florida's best smaller attractions.

In Kissimmee

Kissimmee's main tourist strip is on Walt Disney World's southern border and extends about 2 miles west and 8 to 10 miles east. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway/U.S. 192 is the highway that links the town to WDW and points west. Because it is so full of eateries and hotels, it can be hard to see some of the smaller destinations, though the roadway's guide markers can be quite helpful, as is the U.S. 192 map that you can pick up at any local hotel lobby. Check with your hotel's front desk or the attractions listings for detailed directions and shortcuts that might make finding them a little easier.

Note: The prices don't include the 6.5% to 7% sales tax, unless otherwise noted.

In the International Drive Area

These attractions are a 10- to 15-minute drive from the Disney area and 5 to 10 minutes from Universal Orlando. Most appeal to special interests, but one is free (the Peabody Ducks' show) and another (Wet 'n Wild) is in a class with WDW's top two water parks, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach.

Elsewhere in Central Florida

These attractions are out of the mainstream tourist areas, meaning you won't have to battle heavy crowds. The Central Florida Zoo, Orlando Museum of Art, and Orlando Science Center are close enough to incorporate a visit to Winter Park, if you choose to make a day of it.

Going, Going, Gone! -- Repeated attempts were made to revive one of Florida's original attractions, but alas, their efforts were for naught as Cypress Gardens finally closed its doors in 2009. But don't think all of that prime real estate is going to waste: Merlin Entertainments Group (a British amusements operator with holdings that include Madame Tussauds and the London Eye) snapped up the property and announced plans to build LEGOLAND Florida (slated to open just as this guide hits bookstore shelves). Much like its popular counterpart in California, LEGOLAND Florida will feature between 40 and 50 main attractions that include giant LEGO brick models, kid-powered attractions, and more. If you visit, you may recognize a few remnants left behind by its predecessor -- the water-ski show, botanical gardens, and possibly one of the wooden roller coasters are supposed to remain intact. Plans to keep the neighboring Splash Island water park operational (as a separately ticketed venue) are also in the works. Construction is ongoing, and specific details have yet to be released. An opening date is set for the fall of 2011. Check out www.legolandfloridaresort.com for the most up-to-date information before planning a visit.