The List Orlando, FL
The top 10 must-dos in Orlando, FL
Parasailing
1 Parasailing
For a new perspective, float high— 500 to 800 feet high—over the Space Coast on a parasailing adventure. Catch views of NASA's Vehicle Assembly Building, the Cocoa Beach Pier and, if you're lucky, frolicking dolphins while you sail above it all. Big Toho Parasailing, 726 Scallop Dr, Cape Canaveral (45 miles from Orlando); 321-506-5679; www.cocoaparasailing.com
2 The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Accio butterbeer! Well, if you can't make it come to you, go to it—have a pint at Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade Village, buy a wand at Ollivanders, ride the Chinese Fireball, and explore Hogwarts' wacky wizarding world. 6000 Universal Blvd; 407-224-4233; www.universalorlando.com/harrypotter
3 Wekiwa Springs State Park
Alligators, turtles and more wading birds than you can shake a paddle at frequent the tannic waters of Rock Springs Run. mAt the spring head of the nearby Wekiwa River, however, the water is gin clear and gator-free for swimming. Rent a canoe or kayak, or go hiking. 1800 Wekiwa Cir, Apopka; 407-884-2008; www.floridastateparks.org
4 Gatorland
The alligator capital of the world houses thousands of the beady-eyed beauties—plus, its new White Gator Swamp features four 800-plus-pound blue-eyed lizards. Gator wrestlin' shows keep you busy—and stick in your mind during nighttime tours of the breeding marsh. 14501 S Orange Blossom Tr; 800-393-5297; www.gatorland.com
5 Epcot's World Showcase
Bar hopping takes on a worldly slant. Grab a margarita in Mexico, sip sake in Japan, and down a proper pint in the UK at this pavilion that's filled with shops, attractions and restaurants representing the cultures of 11 countries. 4600 N World Dr, Lake Buena Vista; 407-824-2222; disneyworld.disney.go.com
6 Hawkers Streetfare
Little Vietnam is full of diverse authentic Asian food, not to mention scores of karaoke bars. Sample everything in one go with Hawkers' street food spread of dumplings, noodle soup, fried green beans and other portioned-to-share delights at this wildly popular restaurant. 1103 N Mills Ave; 407-237-0606; www.hawkersstreetfare.com
7 Thornton Park
Venture downtown to hang in this hip lake front neighborhood that hosts a weekly farmers market with organic produce, handmade crafts and a beer garden. The area abounds with independent shops, restaurants and bars on brick-lined streets. Hit Zou Zou for stylish women's wear or create custom T-shirts at Mother Falcon. www.thorntonpark.org
8 The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art
Bask in a kaleidoscope of light and color at the home of the world's largest collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany. Leaded glass windows, lamps and a chapel interior designed for the 1893 World's Columbian Expo are among the treasures. 445 N Park Ave, Winter Park; 407-645-5311; www.morsemuseum.org
9 Leu Gardens
Stop and smell the flowers as the elaborate camellia garden—one of the largest in the country—peaks in January at this 50-acre lake front horticultural paradise near downtown Orlando. Stroll the pathways, and don't forget to stop off in the flittering butterfly garden. 1920 N Forest Ave; 407-246-2620; www.leugardens.org
10 The Social
Downtown's best live music venue plays host to nationally acclaimed artists, up-and-comers and indie bands. And since the skinny jeans and Converse-wearing crowds max out at 400 people, every seat in the house is a good one. Don't miss Anthony Green (Jan. 29). 54 N Orange Ave, 407-246-1419; www.thesocial.org
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