The Other Places You Can Go When In Orlando

By Chris Linch

Are you thinking about taking in holiday in Orlando or the surrounding area? Attracted, perhaps, by the increasing number of cheap flights to Orlando? You probably have in mind the well-known, household name attractions such as Walt Disney World, Universal or SeaWorld. Yet the area has far more to offer than these, a fact not always appreciated by visitors from overseas. Here, I will tell you about 5 of the less well-known attractions in the are around Orlando.

If you are fascinated by alligators and crocodiles then visit Gatorland instead of the more well-known SeaWorld. This freshwater reserve and theme park, opened in'49, is home to thousands of crocodiles and alligators. You can get to know these fascinating creatures at close quarters. The reserve includes a breeding marsh for conservation. Educational facilities are available and the entertainment includes a wrestling show.

If you are looking for a theme park that is like no other, then the Holy Land Experience may be for you. In this theme park and museum you can walk along re-creations of ancient streets and feel immersed into biblical times. Lifelike re-enactments will portray key events from within the Bible. This theme park may not be for everyone - some may feel that it is a money-grabbing attempt to exploit religious belief but others will find that the Holy Land experience is moving, enjoyable and educational.

For those who love nature and observing wildlife then Bok Tower Gardens, near Lake Wales, is a good choice. The botanical gardens bear the name of their founder, Edward Bok, who created them as a bird sanctuary in'21. Over one hundred species of birds as well as many other types of wildlife live in the gardens. The marble Singing Tower contains 60 carillon bells which ring daily at 1pm and 3pm.

If you are a comedy fan on vacation on Orlando then make sure you visit the SAK Comedy Lab in central Orlando, famous for improvisational comedy and theatre. Watch two teams improvising against each other in the long running "Duel of Fools" show or catch up with one of the seasonal shows throughout the year. Past productions include "Fourplay: The Improvised Musical" - a humorous Broadway send up and game shows.

If you are on holiday in the US, you mustn't miss that truly American tourist tradition, the medieval re-enactment. Found throughout the US, Medieval Times is a mock up of a traditional medieval castle. After you are seated in a corner of this dinner theatre you will be invited to through your support behind a knight. Whilst you eat your "royal" banquet, the knights battle through sword fights and jousting and you root for your chosen knight. - 29977

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