ABOUT ORLANDO

When one thinks of Orlando, most likely the first thing that comes to mind is Walt Disney World.

Walt Disney World
The world’s largest theme park, Walt Disney World Resort, covers a space twice the size of Manhattan, delivering the Disney promise of magical escapism and thrilling rides. It is divided into four theme parks, alongside water parks, restaurants, theatres and hotels. The best-known of the theme parks is the Magic Kingdom, which provides traditional Disney rides and attractions and allows visitors to meet their favorite Disney characters. Disney’s Animal Kingdom is an animal park, where visitors can learn about the animal kingdom, enjoy shows such as the ‘Festival of the Lion King’, and go on an animated jungle trek or African-style safari. Disney-MGM Studios is a Hollywood-inspired theme park featuring rides, shows and tours of Hollywood sets, both real sets and reconstructions, including a children’s playground adventure based on the film ‘Honey, I Shrunk the Kids.’ Epcot is a science-based park which explores the earth’s natural phenomena and the human anatomy, as well as taking visitors on virtual trips around countries such as China and France (in World Showcase) and offering a glimpse into the technology of the future (in Future World). Read more: Click here

But there are some other interesting places that make Orlando a great place to visit, such as SeaWorld Orlando, which is the most popular marine theme park in the world. It has attracted over 80 million visitors since opening in 1978 and offers rides, shows and various other ocean-themed attractions. The site covers an area of 494 hectares (200 acres) and aims to educate visitors as well as entertain. Terrors of the Deep is an underwater ride that go past live sharks, eels, pufferfish and lionfish from the safe environment of an acrylic tunnel. Visitors can experience Journey to Atlantis, an 18 metre-high (60 foot) roller coaster ride through a large-scale version of the mythical underwater city. Shows include the Cirque de la Mer (Circus of the Sea), featuring athletes, acrobats, singers and dancers together with comedy based on South American folklore. Children will particularly enjoy games such as Shamu’s Happy Harbor, where they can explore a tropical paradise incorporating ball pools, slides, water mazes and tunnels. Read more: Click here

While in Orlando fill your days with the action and adventure at Universal Studios Florida® and/or Universal's Islands of Adventure® and your nights with the non-stop nightlife of Universal CityWalk®! It's a family vacation of thrills and excitement, and it's waiting for you at Universal Orlando Resort.

Islands of Adventure
Take an unforgettable journey through remarkable islands where all your favorite myths, legends, comic books, cartoons and children's stories come to life. Experience innovative rides and attractions that challenge all your senses, including The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man®, The Incredible Hulk Coaster®, Jurassic Park River Adventure® and The Cat in the Hat® and more.

Universal Studios
Go beyond the screen and jump into the action of your favorite films at Universal Studios Florida. At the number one movie and TV-based theme park in the world, you'll find an amazing array of rides, shows, movie sets and attractions including the new Hollywood Rip Ride RockitSM multi-sensory coaster. NOW OPEN, the wild and hilarious The Simpsons Ride®, Revenge of the Mummy®, Shrek 4-D®, MEN IN BLACK® Alien Attack® and more.

For those interested in a bargain or two, stop by The Mall at Millenia (mallatmillenia.com) which debuted nine new shops last year, including Intermix and Tory Burch. Large department stores, such as Bloomingdales, Macy’s and Neiman Marcus are complemented by some 200 specialty shops with plenty of bars and restaurants to keep non-shoppers busy. Bargain hunters will enjoy the Prime Outlets Orlando (primeoutlets.com/locations/international-orlando.aspx), which recently debuted 60 new stores as part of a $300 million expansion that has made it the largest outlet shopping destination in the Southeast.

Orlando continues to build on its reputation for excellent dining options and world-class nightlife. From the award-winning, upscale cuisine available at the area’s numerous resorts and hotels (including Disney’s Swan & Dolphin), to the international dining experiences available at “Restaurant Row” on Sand Lake Road, or the trendy eateries in downtown Orlando and Winter Park, you’ll be surprised and impressed.

With all there is to see and do in Orlando, including NSAC’s two and a half days of education-filled programs, we look forward to having you as one of our attendees as we celebrate the Society’s 75th anniversary. See you August 2-4th!!