City of Orlando
PLACES TO GO, THINGS TO SEE
Why not spend an afternoon learning something at The Orlando Science Center (www.osc.org, 407-514-2000), where you'll find interactive exhibits about Florida ecosystems, the human body and the cosmos. But don't miss the domed IMAX theater and planetarium.
For a stroll through one of Florida's most beautiful botanical gardens, visit 50-acre Harry P. Leu Gardens (www.leugardens.org, 407-246-2620). Take a guided tour of the restored 1880s-era Leu home, where intimate concerts are sometimes held, or check out the lovely and peaceful butterfly garden.
Head to The Orlando Museum of Art (www.omart.org, 407-896-4231) to see its impressive collection of American art from the 18th century to the present, including works by such masters as John Singer Sargent, Georgia O'Keeffe and Ansel Adams. Equally as interesting are the displays of African and pre-Columbian art.
Was there an Orlando before Disney World? Indeed there was, as you'll see at the Orlando" target="_blank">Orange County Regional History Center (www.thehistorycenter.org, 407-836-8500). The sprawling facility boasts a mix of permanent and rotating exhibitions related to local lore.
After you've enjoyed an afternoon outing, make your way to one of the local hangouts in Thornton Park, where you can relax indoors or out. Order a glass of wine, grab a book and chill for awhile at the trendy Urban Think Bookstore (www.urbanthinkorlando.com, 407-650-8004) or grab a cappuccino and sit outside in the brick courtyard at the Coffee House of Thornton Park (www.coffeehouse-orlando.com, 407-426-8989).