Lyndsay Fogarty
From the theme parks to Winter Park, these three staycation ideas cover all that Florida has to offer for residents and visitors alike.
Play Like a Tourist in Lake Buena Vista and Kissimmee
Where to Stay
A stay at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort offers a relaxing getaway right in your own backyard. Leave the real world behind for a little while with a visit to the Mandara Spa for a rejuvenating facial, a relaxing massage or a mani/pedi. Also, book a private cabana for an afternoon spent poolside or reserve a tee time at one of the property’s golf courses.
In addition to a comfortable, secluded setting, Four Seasons Resort Orlando offers amenities that appeal to guests of all ages. While you’re there, tee off on the golf course, splash around with the kids at Explorer Island Water Park (or relax at the adults-only pool), treat yourself to a massage at The Spa and much more.
The proximity of both of these hotels to the Walt Disney World Resort makes transportation easy for a family theme park day or weekend.
Where to Go
Island H20, which is located at Sunset Walk in Kissimmee, offers an immersive and interactive experience for people of all ages. From water slides and splash zones to a lazy river and a private adult pool, there is something for all members of the family to enjoy during a visit.
Looking for an outdoor adventure? Choose from a variety of airboat tours at Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures, including a sunset tour and nighttime expedition, where you can glide across the water to see Florida wildlife in their natural environment. Or participate in a challenging aerial obstacle course with zip lines and a ropes course at Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park.
Where to Eat
With an abundance of delectable dining options, as well as live entertainment and retail shops representing well-known brands and shops with Disney merchandise, Disney Springs has something for every palate and for everyone in the family. Savor celebrity chef restaurants such as Frontera Cocina and Jaleo or local concepts like Wine Bar George and Polite Pig. From casual to fine dining and from indoor seating to open-air patios, there is something for everyone.
Another option with something for everyone is Promenade at Sunset Walk, an outdoor entertainment district that hosts weekly special events and features a variety of restaurants. Try Capone’s Coal Fired Pizza for a casual mix of traditional and specialty pizzas fresh from an 800-degree coal fired oven. Or get dressed up for a night out at Estefan Kitchen, which features Latin and Cuban flavors with a side of live music on certain nights.
A Weekend on International Drive
Where to Stay
Treat yourself to a luxurious staycation at Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel. Its prime location on Universal Boulevard is close to a variety of entertainment options and is within a short drive to SeaWorld, Universal Resort, ICON Park and more. While you’re there, book a treatment at The Spa at Shingle Creek or a tee time at the Shingle Creek Golf Club.
With a close proximity to the parks, DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld offers free shuttle service to SeaWorld, Aquatica and Universal Studios Resort. The hotel is also just a 10-minute drive to Walt Disney World. If you’re looking for a relaxing staycation, make plans to enjoy the property’s two pools, on-site restaurants, fitness center, and, of course, a warm chocolate chip welcome cookie upon arrival.
Where to Go
For a full day of marine life adventures, plan a visit to SeaWorld. In addition to a variety of rides, the park is hosting the Seven Seas Food Festival, featuring food and drink booths as well as live entertainment, every weekend through May 9. Also, cool off at Aquatica or spend a quieter day in the water at Discovery Cove.
At ICON Park, a 20-acre, walkable entertainment destination on International Drive, you can mingle with celebrities at Madame Tussauds Orlando; go under the sea at SEA LIFE Orlando; and take a spin on the 400-foot The Wheel. Other attractions include Arcade City, 7D Dark Ride Adventure, StarFlyer Orlando and the new Museum of Illusions.
Where to Eat
While ICON Park is known for its attractions, the complex also features popular restaurants such as Yard House, Sugar Factory, Tapa Toro and Uncle Julio’s, among others. A walk along International Drive will also come up with casual restaurants such as Mia’s Italian Kitchen and Cafe Tu Tu Tango or fine dining establishments like Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse and Oceanaire Seafood Room.
Hometown Hospitality in Winter Park
Where to Stay
The Alfond Inn at Rollins, a 112-room, pet-friendly boutique hotel, is located in the heart of Winter Park. The property features a conservatory, a courtyard, an elevated pool, a fitness center and on-site dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner at Hamilton’s Kitchen. Be sure to check with the front desk for guided art tours to view The Alfond Collection of Contemporary Art.
Where to Go
Paddleboard Orlando specializes in teaching first-time paddlers how to navigate the water while standing up and staying dry. The company also offers paddleboarding tours across Central Florida. If you’re new to the sport, take a lesson on the Winter Park Chain, Butler Chain, Conway Chain or one of your favorite waterfront locations.
Also, visit Orlando Science Center with four floors of interactive exhibits, an observatory and a variety of learning experiences. Check out the Planet Pioneers exhibit through May 9 and save the date for Kids Night at the Museum on April 11.
Where to Eat
Winter Park’s Park Avenue is known for its wide variety of restaurants. When lunch or dinnertime rolls around, just take a stroll down Park Avenue. From a hearty Italian dinner at Prato to an American-style brunch with unlimited mimosas at 310 Park South, and everything in between, you’ll find something for every taste.
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