Top Rated Attractions in Orlando

While renowned for the conglomeration of Disney-inspired parks that lay scattered across its greater limits, Orlando has also always packed in a diverse range of sights and experiences apart from its animation-inclined wonders. Surrounded by lakes, Orlando has seldom rested on its Disney-driven laurels, and instead built an enriching cultural hub around the tenets of history, art and music. Downtown Orlando is a captivating mix of history and culture, replete with quiet, leafy avenues that are dotted with independent boutiques and shops, an array of art museums and galleries, and concert and theater venues that offer some of the best entertainment. It is also packed to the brim with an eclectic range of bars, cafes and restaurants that differ from one another in terms of budget and cuisine, as well as streets that come alive during festival season. After the star-studded allure of Orlando's Disney parks unravels, travelers typically find solace in this versatile city's quieter core.

Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is one of the major events centers in the city established in the year 2011. It was built in the under the guidance of the renowned architect Barton Myers. It has spaces like Walt Disney Theater, Steinmetz Hall, DeVos Family Room and the Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater, all of which are well-equipped with modern light and sound installations. If you are a lover of performing arts then do visit this place while in the city.

A historical depot and block, featuring a state-of-the-art retail center and entertainment zone, the Church Street Station is a popular tourist attraction in Orlando, Florida. This commercial establishment also includes a SunRail stop, which is a famous commuter rail service in the Greater Orlando region. The iconic depot was built in 1889 by the South Florida Railroad Company and served multiple railroads up until 1926. During the early 1970s, the station and surrounding buildings were developed into an entertainment and commercial zone, featuring bars, lounges, restaurants and event spaces. This revamped Church Street Station today serves as one of the prime nightlife destinations in Downtown Orlando.

SAK Comedy Lab is out to tickle your funny bone but not shock your sensibilities. Snack food is served, and beverages are available here. Adhering strictly to a "no obscenities" rule, the club lures both local folks and visitors, who flock here for an evening of fun, free of the concern that the amusement will rely on shock value. Be warned though, if you wear socks with sandals or hang a touristy camera around your neck, chances are you will be heckled. Apart from putting up a range of shows that are appropriate for the whole family, SAK also organises improv classes and can even organize entertainment for private parties.

The Orange County Regional History Center allows visitors to explore 12,000 years worth of Central Florida history. The detailed exhibits go as far back as the Seminole Wars, and cover everything from natural disasters to the arraignment of Ted Bundy. You can even find out what Orlando was like before the establishment of Walt Disney World. Be sure to explore the gift shop for some excellent souvenirs.

If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Lake Eola is an ideal escape without having to leave the city. The lake is a part of a park complex that includes a lovely walkway, which encircles the lake and serves as a running track. The park is a whopping 43.2 acres (17.48 hectares), which makes it easy to feel like you really have left the city. Visitors can use the picnic facilities located throughout the park, or rent a boat to take out onto the lake.