|
History
Historians date Orlando's name to around 1837, when a soldier named Orlando Reeves allegedly died in the area during the Second Seminole War. Pioneer settlers found his name carved in a tree and the name stuck. A memorial beside Lake Eola (the city symbol) designates the spot where the city's namesake fell.
Orlando is famous throughout the world thanks in part to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and Sea World Florida. More than 52 million tourists of all ages visit Orlando each year to experience its warmth and entertainment. Before Walt Disney's now world famous amusement park opened, Orlando primarily consisted of citrus farms and military installations. As a prime location away from the dangers of Florida's hurricanes, Walt Disney World opened in 1971 - and Orlando has never looked back. The warm Florida sunshine provides a perfect location for more theme parks and entertainment attractions than anywhere else in the world. Today eleven theme parks call the area home. Twenty one colleges have facilities in the greater Orlando area, along with nine museums, four malls and the Orlando Magic NBA basketball team to provide plenty of entertainment for everyone.
Geography Facts
- Greater Orlando is Florida's third largest metropolitan area, behind Miami and Tampa with more than 2 million people and 4,000 square miles.
- The metro area is one of the fastest-growing areas in the nation.
- The ideal location in central Florida, 42 miles from the Atlantic Ocean, 77 miles from the Gulf of Mexico, 235 miles from Miami and 190 miles from the Georgia/Florida border.
- Located 45 miles from the famous Kennedy Space Center.
- Orlando is on average 106 feet above sea level.
Climate
- Orlando's climate is generally mild and pleasant in December, making it a favorite tourism destination with plenty of entertainment for the whole family.
- Average temperature in early December is a high of 73°F and an average low of 54°F.
Entertainment
Disney World
- Magic Kingdom - Theme park based on the imagination and characters of Walt Disney.
- Epcot - Theme park based on international culture and technological innovations.
- Animal Kingdom - Theme park based on animal conservation.
- Hollywood Studios - Theme park based on 1930's and 1940's show business.
- Blizzard Beach - Water park with an abandoned Florida ski resort theme.
- Typhoon Lagoon - Water park with a typhoon wreaked paradise theme.
- Downtown Disney - Outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Sea World
Universal
Dining
Orlando has over 50 restaurants within 5 miles of the Orange Country Convention Center.
|
