Mostly known for its mega-attractions, perhaps the forgotten land, the city of Orlando is certainly a happening spot, too.  The downtown district has many options for shopping, dining, arts and entertainment, a hoppin' nightlife and much more.

Until the 1950's, Orlando was not much more than a sleepy provincial town; however, its proximity to Cape Canaveral and the world famous theme parks changed all that.   You can learn all about the city pre-mouse at The Orange County Regional History Center, which  features an engaging mix of permanent and alternating exhibitions focusing on the history of Central Florida.

Downtown Orlando, where glass-sided high-rise buildings mark a rapidly growing business district, beckons at night, when tourists and locals flock to the many bars and restaurants around Orange Avenue, Orlando's main street.  If it's entertainment you're after dance clubs, martini bars, piano lounges, rooftop bars, and live music venues will keep you entertained until the sun comes up.  If you're looking for a little comic relief enjoy the humor at the Improv Comedy Club, the former Church Street Station where headline comedians share the stage with up-coming talent.

During the daytime, take advantage of the beautiful surroundings as you take a stroll in the park around Lake Eola, three blocks east of Orange Avenue.  Here you'll get a taste of Orlando's early history.  Other activities include renting a swan shaped paddle-boat or electric gondola boat, feeding the graceful swans along with other birds inhabiting the park, experiencing a concert or play in the Walt Disney Amphitheater, grabbing a bite to eat at Erics at Eola, or relaxing amid colorful, scented flower-beds and a spectacular view of Orlando's skyline.

If it's shopping you're after, you can bet you  will enjoy a relaxing afternoon of bargain hunting while scouring book shops, thrift and antique shops and boutiques along North Orange Avenue.   The shops cater to every need, and are an interesting assortment of the old, the new, the original and the unusual.  Additionally, for fresh produce, crafts, plants and baked goods there is the downtown farmer's market each Saturday at the corner of North Magnolia and East Central.

Variety in both cuisine and atmosphere characterizes Downtown Orlando's dining experience.  Fun, casual meals and reliable chain restaurants fit the bill for many a hungry tourist.  Take advantage of dining gems like Manual's on the Twenty Eighth, located atop the Nations Bank Building.  From its perch, glimpse the spectacular view overlooking the district.  Enjoy a casual lunch at a sidewalk cafe and observe the streetscape.

Downtown Orlando boasts a number of galleries such as the new City Arts Factory which is a haven for artists, theater and film and Orlando's City Hall's Terrace Gallery.  Museums are also abundant. Orlando Museum of Art being the most highly regarded has three permanent collections including pre-Columbian artifacts, with figurines from Nazca in Peru; African art, and American paintings of the 19th and 20th centuries. Also there's the Mennello Museum of American Art, the Orlando Fire Museum as well as the Orlando Shakespeare Theater and the Orlando Science Center.

Set aside some time to discover the unexpected Orlando in the downtown area.  You will be amazed at what you'll uncover: history and culture; amazing scenery; dining and nightlife.  It all awaits you only a few miles from the fantasy theme parks and mega resorts.

This tidbit of real travel advice was written by Janette Peel 

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