Top Rated Attractions in Orlando

Mary, Queen of the Universe Shrine is officially named as Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe. This Roman Catholic Church is located in Orlando and was just an idea in the 1970s, but became a reality in the 1980s and 1990s. Originally built to accommodate the tens of millions of Catholics coming to the area on vacations, the church offers a place for travelers to worship or attend Mass among magnificent statues, sculpted entryways and adorned walls. On the church's property, you will also find beautiful gardens, a museum and a gift shop.

Donnelly House, also known as Mount Dora Masonic Lodge or Lodge No. 38, is a historic home in Mount Dora. Tucked away in the quiet Donnelly Avenue, this Queen Anne-style house was built in 1893 by John P. Donnelly for his wife. Registered on the National Register of Historic Places, the Donnelly House is now a beautiful landmark of the town and forms part of its rich heritage. Now owned by Mount Dora Lodge #238, F&AM, the house can be toured on certain days of the year.

Although it sits on only 25 acres, this spot offers visitors the chance to get involved in some active recreation and to explore Florida's historic past. The park's centerpiece is a replica of a fort built on Christmas day, 1837, to protect European settlers during their war with the Seminole Tribe. An on-site museum houses military and Seminole artifacts. The site also houses a restored pioneer home and sugarcane mill, both graced with historical farming equipment. Once you've soaked in your fill of history, have some fun on the basketball, volleyball and tennis courts located in the park. You'll also find a playground, horseshoe pits and picnic areas.

Orlando’s first Catholic church, the St. James Catholic Cathedral parish can date it’s beginning to the year 1885. Over the years the church has seen several changes, including changes in location and the building which has undergone significant alterations over the years. The current structure dates back around 50 years to 1952. Notable features include the beautiful Rose window, impressive stone front and the majestic Wicks organ. Sunday Mass is held in three languages, in keeping with the diverse congregation, English, Spanish and Creole. English Mass is held at 7.30am, 9:00am, 10:30am and 5:00pm; Spanish Mass at 12:15pm and Kreole Mass at 6.30pm. Besides this services, prayer meetings and confession takes place at varied timings. For details, visit the website.

Feel as if your floating on air as you zoom through the Florida wetlands on this exciting adventure with Black Hammock Airboat Rides. Located northeast of Orlando, this adventure boat company can be found in Oviedo on the shores of Lake Jesup. Cruise past native flora and fauna as you make your way over open waters and shallow mangrove forests. Various rides are offered throughout the day from a quick 30 minute adventure to a full hours worth of sightseeing. Alligator spotting's, tropical birds soaring overhead, and the warm Floridian sun will make this an adventure you won't soon forget!

This beautiful red-brown building is considered to the the oldest surviving courthouse in the State. The Osceola County Courthouse was established between 1889 to 1890 and is a classic example of the Romanesque style of architecture. Its charming design and valuable past has landed it in the National Register of Historic Places.