If you’re planning a trip to Disney World and want to add some extra adventure and excitement to your itinerary, consider exploring the vibrant cities near the amusement park. These cities offer a unique blend of culture, history, and entertainment, providing visitors with a memorable experience beyond the theme park. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, these cities offer plenty of activities to explore, from thrilling outdoor adventures to delicious local cuisine.
So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on a journey to discover the best of what these cities near Disney World have to offer. Read on to find out which cities should be on your travel bucket list and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Best Cities to Visit Near Disney World
There are several amazing cities worth visiting near Disney World. These cities offer a range of activities, from beaches to museums, to shopping and nightlife. Here are the top cities worth a visit:
Orlando
Orlando is not only home to Disney World but also a must-visit city with its array of attractions. You can get the chance to visit Universal Studios, SeaWorld and the famous Kennedy Space Center. The city also has beautiful natural parks, vibrant nightlife, and diverse food options.
Kissimmee
Kissimmee is another city near Disney World that offers a unique experience. The city is famous for its outdoor activities like zip-lining, kayaking, and horseback riding. The old-fashioned fun of Old Town Kissimmee is also worth a visit. It’s a charming little town with an amusement park, shopping, and dining options.
Tampa
Tampa is about an hour’s drive from Disney World, but it’s worth the trip. The city is home to the famous Busch Gardens amusement park, a must-visit for thrill-seekers. It also has beautiful beaches, museums, and delicious local cuisine.
Sarasota
Sarasota is a city for art lovers. It has several museums and galleries showcasing different forms of art, including the famous Ringling Museum. The city also has beautiful beaches, parks, and outdoor activities like kayaking and fishing.
In conclusion, these cities offer unique experiences that complement what Disney World offers. They have everything from outdoor activities to cultural experiences to amusement parks. Visiting these cities will undoubtedly make your trip to Disney World more memorable.
Food and Culture in Disney World’s Surrounding Cities
When it comes to experiencing the vibrant cities near Disney World, exploring the local food and culture is a must. Each city has its own unique cuisine and traditions, providing visitors with a diverse and enriching experience. From mouth-watering seafood to cultural festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Food
If you’re a foodie, you’ll love the dining options in the cities near Disney World. Orlando, for example, has a thriving culinary scene with a wide variety of restaurants offering cuisine from all over the world. Seafood lovers should head to Tampa, where they can try fresh crab, shrimp, and oysters. For a taste of Southern-style cuisine, make your way to Jacksonville, where you can indulge in barbecued ribs, fried chicken, and mac and cheese.
But the food scene isn’t just limited to these cities. St. Augustine has a thriving farm-to-table movement, offering fresh and healthy options for visitors. In Winter Park, you can find delicious bakeries, cafes, and ice cream shops perfect for a sweet treat.
Culture
Beyond the food, the cities near Disney World also offer a rich cultural experience. Tampa’s Gasparilla Festival, for example, celebrates the city’s pirate past with a parade and street party. Orlando’s Orange County Regional History Center provides insight into the region’s history, while the Salvador Dali Museum in St. Petersburg showcases the works of the famous artist.
For those interested in music and art, Jacksonville’s Riverside Arts Market is a must-see. Visitors can browse locally-made artisan goods, listen to live music, and enjoy food and drink from local vendors. Winter Park’s Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art showcases the works of Louis Comfort Tiffany, including his famous stained glass.
Overall, exploring the food and culture of the cities near Disney World is a fantastic way to enhance your vacation experience. Don’t miss out on the diverse and enriching opportunities available beyond the amusement park.
Must-See Attractions in Nearby Cities
There are plenty of must-see attractions in the cities near Disney World. For a glimpse into Orlando’s history, visit the Winter Park Historical Museum, housed in a restored train depot. Also in Winter Park, take a scenic boat tour on the chain of lakes, or stroll through the lush gardens of the Mead Botanical Garden.
The city of Kissimmee offers a taste of old Florida with its charming downtown area and unique attractions like the Monument of States, a monument featuring stones from all 50 states, and the Osceola County Historical Society and Museum, showcasing the area’s rich history.
For aviation enthusiasts, the city of Titusville is home to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, where visitors can explore the history of space travel and even meet a real astronaut. In nearby Cocoa Beach, visit the iconic Ron Jon Surf Shop or take a surfing lesson on the waves.
The city of Sanford is known for its charming downtown area, with historic buildings and a picturesque waterfront. Visitors can take a riverboat tour or visit the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens, home to over 350 animals and 400 species of plants.
Finally, the city of Tampa is located just over an hour from Disney World and offers an array of exciting attractions. Visit the Busch Gardens theme park for thrilling rides, or explore the historic Ybor City neighborhood, known for its cigar factories and vibrant nightlife.
- Winter Park Historical Museum
- Mead Botanical Garden
- Monument of States
- Osceola County Historical Society and Museum
- Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
- Ron Jon Surf Shop
- Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens
- Busch Gardens
- Ybor City
These are just a few of the many must-see attractions in the cities near Disney World. Be sure to include some of these unique experiences in your trip itinerary for a truly memorable vacation.
Exploring the Outdoors: Parks and Recreation near Disney World
While Disney World offers plenty of exciting attractions, travelers can also enjoy the natural beauty and outdoor adventures of the surrounding cities. From parks to nature reserves, there are plenty of options for those who want to explore the great outdoors during their trip.
Disney Wilderness Preserve
Located just south of Disney World, the Disney Wilderness Preserve is a 12,000-acre nature reserve with diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, pine flatwoods, and oak hammocks. Visitors can hike or bike along the trails, take a guided tour, and observe the many species of birds and wildlife that inhabit the area.
Wekiwa Springs State Park
Less than an hour’s drive from Disney World, Wekiwa Springs State Park is a beautiful natural oasis with sparkling springs, crystal-clear streams, and lush forests. Travelers can swim, kayak, or paddleboard in the springs, take a hike or bike ride along the trails, or enjoy a picnic in the scenic picnic areas.
Kissimmee Lakefront Park
Located in the heart of Kissimmee, the Kissimmee Lakefront Park offers a range of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, and walking or biking along the scenic trails. Visitors can also enjoy the playground, splash pad, and other amenities for a fun family day out.
Old Town Kissimmee
A unique outdoor entertainment complex, Old Town Kissimmee offers a vintage charm with classic car shows, live music, and street performers. Visitors can also enjoy the amusement park rides and arcade games, or simply stroll around the shops, restaurants, and nightlife venues.
- Other notable parks and recreational areas near Disney World include:
- Bill Frederick Park
- Green Springs Park
- Lake Louisa State Park
With so many options for outdoor exploration and adventure, the cities near Disney World offer a refreshing break from the theme park crowds. Whether you’re looking for a quiet nature retreat or an exciting outdoor activity, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Conclusion
Exploring the cities near Disney World offers a world of excitement, adventure, and cultural experiences beyond the amusement park. From unique attractions to local cuisine and festivals, these vibrant cities are worth exploring. Don’t forget to add a visit to these cities to your Disney World itinerary. You will not regret it.
