“Our vacation is booked!”
“Where are you going?”
“Orlando.”
“Wait, you’re staying in the city where you live? Why would you do that?”
As an Orlando local, it’s no secret that the City Beautiful is full of a wide variety of attractions. It’s precisely why we welcome 75 million visitors In a typical year.
But sometimes we locals forget about all the incredible things we can do in our backyard.
That’s why I’ve started booking weekend getaways at PARC Solar, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club, for Orlando staycations. For me and my husband, the beauty of staycations is spending less on travel and getting away from the daily grind. Staycations allow us to enjoy all The city offers.
So if you’re a local planning a staycation in the Sunshine State, here are my four tips for making the most of your time in O-Town.
Tip #1: Unplug
Like any other vacation, it’s important to unplug and enjoy time away from tech. One benefit to vacationing in your own town is that you don’t need to be glued to your phone’s GPS to get around.
One way to resist the urge to check your phone is to explore the outdoors. While I’m more of an urban traveler, you’d be surprised by how much nature is around you in any city. Sometimes connecting with nature is precisely the kind of experience you need for a quick getaway to relax and explore.
Central Florida has a few beautiful natural springs located just outside Orlando. One of our favorites is Akiva Island, where you can take a dip in the river or rent a canoe and leisurely row to Media Springs State Park. Exploring the natural beauty in the city is the perfect way to disconnect and escape the typical hustle and bustle.
Check out other fun ways to explore the outdoors in Orlando, from water sports to horseback riding.
Tip #2: Visit the Tourist Attractions
It seems like a no-brainer, right? However, as locals, we sometimes try to avoid some of the more “touristy” locations — especially during peak travel seasons.
In Central Florida, our most popular attractions are theme parks. Even as a young couple without children, we love the parks. There’s always something special about them, like stepping back in time and being a kid again, or enjoying a seasonal theme park festival.
If theme parks aren’t for you, or you’re on a budget, there are many other great things to do in Orlando. From shopping at Disney Springs to karaoke at Rising Star at City Walk, or even a bit of athletic and competitive fun at Topgolf Orlando.
Tip #3: Plan A Romantic Date or Fun Night On The Town
One of our favorite things to do is “wine and dine.” There is no better time to try new places than while on vacation. As a top travel destination, Orlando has an array of options for dining choices Especially award-winning hotel and resort dining.
Some of our favorite meals have been at local hotels in the Central Florida area. We’ve found that it’s the perfect opportunity to dress up and celebrate a wonderful night together.
Our recent favorite is Bull & Bear Steakhouse at Waldorf Astoria, Orlando. The experience was unlike anything I’ve ever had: table-side preparation, exceptional service and mouthwatering food. Truly a triple-threat dining experience.
Afterward, stop by Hanson’s Shoe Repair for a craft cocktail at a cozy speakeasy.
Tip #4: Bring A Treat You Don’t Usually Travel With
Another benefit to staycations is being able to pack what you want. It’s easy to bring my favorite bottle of wine or brand of coffee with me to a weekend in Orlando. I love enjoying my favorite drink on the balcony of my Suite. Plus, you always know the best local coffee spots. (Here’s my list of the best Orlando coffee shops.)
Read “12 Things To Do In Orlando Without Kids” for more ways to spend your staycation in Central Florida or experience Orlando like a local.