Orlando has always been a family-favorite vacation spot for well over 15 years for my crew. With COVID locking everyone down and limiting travel, it was quite refreshing to take in all of the sunshine and see everyone’s beautiful faces before the new mask recommendations were (again) released. While relaxing around the enormous pool at one of several Hilton Grand Vacations resorts, families were enjoying each other’s company, participating in many activities the recreation staff planned, sharing stories and just enjoying life.
Some of our favorite activities while visiting Orlando are watching people ride the Slingshot (no way for this guy), going to several outlet malls, going to Disney Springs for people-watching and eating (Planet Hollywood is our favorite), going to Universal’s Boardwalk for more people-watching and eating (Bubba Gumps and Margaritaville our favorites) and making a trip to Daytona Beach for a day of fun in the sand while making time to go visit Aunt Catfish (no relation). Just make sure to be at Aunt Catfish early… there was a two-hour wait most of last week if you arrived at prime time. That also tends to mean it’s a great restaurant! The eateries that made quite an impact on us were Landry’s, The Cheesecake Factory and Ford’s Garage (you have to get the onion rings for the appetizer).
GolfNow helped us find a very reasonable price to play at the Waldorf-Astoria Golf Club. It’s a beautiful course. Bring plenty of towels because the warm weather had us pouring sweat the entire time.
Yes, there are plenty of major theme parks around Orlando — it’s what it is known for. But get off the beaten path and explore the more minor tourism spots and you’ll be shocked at the fun and value you can find. Even further away from Orlando and you’ll keep discovering new and amazing things for you and your family to do. Whether it is traveling north up to Sanford, checking out the motorcycle history at Daytona Beach, or perhaps visiting the Space Coast, there’s a lot to do around Orlando if you just broaden your horizons to a few hours away.
New diet starts tomorrow and so does planning our next adventure…
