Orlando may be famous for its theme parks and water parks, its spectacular shows and hedonistic attractions, but there is much more to this fun-loving city than meets the eye. There is another side to the city, a side where museums, art galleries and historical attractions enrich the landscape. In many ways this isn’t surprising – Orlando is, after all, known for its creative theme park settings, and this creativity follows through to the city’s dynamic arts scene. So if you weren’t aware that Orlando had this other side, where fine arts, independent film and theatre both entertain and inspire, then read on.
You can’t go far wrong with a visit to the Orange County History Center. Documenting the story of the local area, the museum traces the path of the small agricultural town through to its development as a vibrant urban community. The setting in a restored courthouse is appropriately elegant and there is a regular series of tours, hands-on workshops and children’s events.
Art enthusiasts are spoilt for choice. The Orlando Museum of Art houses art from around the globe, with strengths in African art as well as American art. American artists include John Singer Sargent, Georgia O’Keeffe and Ansel Adams. The six metre high glass Cobalt & Citron Tower by Dale Chihuly is a highlight. The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, meanwhile, houses various paintings and pottery from the late 19th century and early 20th century, as well as the largest collection of works by works by designer Louis Comfort Tiffany, including Tiffany lamps and windows. The Museum of Arts and Sciences, situated in a spectacular 90 acre park, has numerous exhibits on the arts and sciences, including Chinese art, American paintings, an extensive collection of Coca Cola memorabilia and a planetarium.
For science buffs, there is also the Orlando Science Center, which is packed with interactive exhibits and exciting events. There are interactive simulators, planetarium shows and laser light shows. The Kennedy Space Center hosts tours of the launch and landing facilities and is also home to an IMAX theatre and flight simulators.
If you love music and the theatre, then you are in for a treat. Orlando Shakespeare Theater, now running for 25 seasons, puts on exciting Shakespeare productions together with modern classics and new plays. You could also check out Central Florida Community Arts, a non-profit community organisation dedicated to providing platforms for promising artists. Popular downtown theatres include the Mad Cow Theater, Theater Downtown and the Orlando Repertory Theater. Orlando Ballet stages performances of classics such as The Nutcracker and Romeo & Juliet alongside innovative modern productions, while the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra puts on spectacular shows with everything from opera to pop music.
The Orlando Film Festival, held in October, is dedicated to promoting independent film and encouraging culture and the arts in Orlando. Another alternative to the standard cinema experience is the Enzian Theater, a small theatre specialising in independent films, world cinema and documentaries.
If you want to escape the crowds and explore Orlando’s natural wonders and beautiful landscapes, there are many options. The Harry P. Leu Gardens is a beautiful 50 acre path, with many temperate and tropical plants housed in various collections. Take a wander through the Tropical Stream Garden with its birds-of-paradise, bromeliads, gingers, palms and vines, or check out the gorgeous Rose Garden. Learn about Florida’s wetlands at the Native Wetland Garden, an important sanctuary and showcase for native birds and wildlife. The garden also has an art gallery and the beautifully restored farmhouse is now a museum.
With Avis car hire from Orlando airport you can pick up your vehicle in minutes to hit the road straightaway and explore the city’s many attractions. Whether you like to browse museums and art galleries, learn about the city’s history, enjoy traditional or contemporary dance and theatre, watch independent cinema or learn about Florida’s environment and wildlife, Orlando has it all.
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