End-of-the-year vacations are just around the corner, and everyone knows Orlando is the vacation capital of the world. The theme parks have something for everyone. Fantasy, movies, animals, science, international cultures, water adventures, magic adventures… I mean everything. But how about that moment when you are tired of the parks and can’t even stand in one more attraction line? There is more to do in Orlando than go to the parks and International Drive.

Shopping Outlets

Main entrance Millenia Mall, Orlando. Photo by Esteban Langer

First off, let’s talk shopping. Orlando is home of some of the greatest outlets in Florida.

• Around 15 minutes from Camden Town Square, Camden World Gateway and Camden Hunter’s Creek. You can find both the Orlando International Premium Outlets and the Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets, where you can shop some of the best brands at very affordable prices.

• Likewise, you can go shopping at the Florida Mall a well-known tourist stop or also the lesser-known Altamonte Mall to the north or Waterford Lakes Town Center to the east (right across the street from Camden Waterford Lakes).

• The Millenia Mall which has a bit more upscale brand shops and a great ambiance.

• Finally, on your way to the airport, you can do any last-minute shopping at the Lee Vista Promenade. Make sure to check out Camden Lee Vista and Camden Lago Vista.

Downtown Orlando

Downtown Orlando from Lake Eola. Photo by Esteban Langer

If shopping is not your cup of tea, take the family to Downtown Orlando, where you will find plenty to do from strolling around the emblematic Lake Eola to stopping by the museums like The Orlando Science Center, The Orlando Museum of Arts or the beautiful Lieu Gardens during the day. Many of these great places are just minutes from Camden Lake Eola and Camden Thornton Park. You can enjoy a show or sports event at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, The Kia Center or the Inter&Co stadium in the evening. Finally, to close the night and after the kids go to sleep, you have to experience Downtown Orlando’s piece de resistance, the restaurants and nightlife, be sure to check the Main Street District and Church Street Station; North Quarter District (Swing by Camden North Quarter and Camden Orange Court) as well as Wall Street and the Milk District’s bars and restaurants.

Winter Park

After all the excitement of Downtown Orlando, a bit more to the north, you will find Winter Park. An independent city that is a laid back and eclectic place for the family to enjoy. You can start by taking a Scenic Boat Tour showing you the different mansions and fauna around Winter Park’s three biggest lakes. After that, you can take a short walk to Park Avenue, where you will find all sorts of great restaurants and shops, as well as Winter Park Central Park, a great place with many events throughout the year. While on Park Avenue, be sure to visit the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, the Casa Feliz Historic Home Museum and, on the south end of the avenue Rollins College, one of the first post-secondary education institutions in Florida. The college students make the night-life always vibrant at the many restaurants and bars in the area.

Lake Nona

To the east of Orlando, you can find Lake Nona, a fun, family-oriented new neighborhood that harbors some of the best food experiences in Orlando at Lake Nona Town Center. Just cross the street and you will find the more eclectic and casual Boxi Park, an amazing concept of shipping containers transformed into mini restaurants (food truck style) in an open area complemented by a concert stage and dancing area, tables, playground for kids, beach volleyball courts, dog park and if you visit around Christmas time an ice skating rink… yes, an outdoor ice skate ring in Florida. Last but certainly not least, you will find the Lake Nona Sports District which includes the US Tennis Association, soccer centers, youth performance centers, golf simulators and much more. All this is located one 10 minutes from Camden LaVina.

Nature Parks

Kelly Park north of Orlando. Photo by Esteban Langer

Now, if you feel overwhelmed by the lights and sounds of the city, visit one of the beautiful natural parks in and around Orlando. From Blue Springs State Park in Orange City to Shingle Creek Regional Park in Kissimmee, passing by Kelly Park, Tibet-Butler Reserve, and many others where you can hike, paddle, and even horseback ride, all while taking on the beautiful natural Floridian scenery, flora and fauna. You may even spot some manatees, gators, otters and many more.

So, take your pick; the theme parks are great, but as you can see, there is much, much more to do and see in Orlando, including making any of our Camden communities your next home!!!