There are so many Disney Attractions in Orlando they can't be counted on both hands. Its why Orlando is one of the most visited places, not only in Florida, but the country. There are so many things to do and see in Orlando, even with golf, that no one can do it in one day. Usually, any Disney Attraction is the reason why one visits Orlando. Since its opened and its expansive growth, its become more of a destination than just a place to visit.
Features
There are four theme parks: the Magic Kingdom, Epcot Center, Disney Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom. The Magic Kingdom was the original theme park, and it most closely resembles the original Disneyland in Anaheim, California. They share many of the same rides and attractions.
Epcot Center is more geared towards education and exploration, with science-based attractions, futuristic rides and a circle of attractions that represent several countries. Disney Hollywood Studios is a theme park based around movies and the entertainment industry. The Great Movie Ride is the main attraction. Animal Kingdom is the most recent addition, and it includes everything from dinosaurs to a real-life "safari" ride with actual lions, zebras and many other animals.
Other attractions include water parks Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach. There's also Disney's Boardwalk and Downtown Disney
Golf at Disney
The main benefit of going on a Disney vacation in Orlando is that there is something for everyone in the family. Obviously there are theme parks with its rides and shows for the kids, night life for parents and then even golf for dad or moms to enjoy.
Disney has five golf courses. These include four 18-hole golf courses--the Magnolia, the Palm, Lake Buena Vista and Osprey Ridge--and a nine-hole walking course, Oak Trail, which is designed for young golfers. For fun, there are two miniature golf courses complexes, Fantasia Gardens and Winter Summerland.
Orlando is a great area for golf, even home of The Golf Channel. There are numerous nearby courses that are not Disney owned. Staying at a Disney resort or even on its property also gives free transportation to all its attractions.
Identification
It's hard to miss anything that is branded Disney in Orlando. It either has or bears some resemblance to Mickey Mouse or magic. Not to mention it will have the word 'Disney' somewhere in the name of the place or attraction. Many of the courses--especially the miniature ones--have some sort of Disney movie or character theme to it as well.
Considerations
Disney owns many hotels in Orlando, ranging from deluxe to budget accommodations. If money is tight, you might consider not staying at a Disney resort. People traveling on a budget will probably find Disney pricier than staying at a non-owned Disney resort or hotel. It's a way to save some money to spend at the Disney attractions or golf courses.
Misconceptions
There's a misconception that Disney is just for kids and parents with little kids. It's not. There are numerous things for adults to do away from kids, even with kids that aren't just dancing around with a guy in a costume or going on the kiddie rides. Many of the attractions are fun for parents, such as the water parks or the theme parks with its roller coasters.
About The Author
Mike Camunas is a free lance reporter, covering local golf in the Tampa Bay area, from events to golfers hitting hole in ones, to even covering the professional events that hit town. He has been playing golf for about 11 years and has never seen his handicap lower. Perhaps one day. He attended the University of South Florida.
