Orlando has a rich and interesting history, so it’s not surprising that it’s home to a number of fascinating museums, parks, and other landmarks. If you’re in Orlando on vacation, visiting family or friends or live in Orlando and are looking for something out of the ordinary to do, we recommend that you stop by at least one of these unique spots.
Thornton Park
Thornton Park is Orlando’s most popular historic district. If features Colonial and Mediterranean-style architecture, cobblestone streets, bungalows, and quaint restaurants with great food. The district has been around since the 1800s and Greenwood Cemetery, which is located on the Park’s southern edge, is the resting place of many of Orlando’s founders.
Harry P. Leu Gardens
Leu Gardens is a 50-acre botanical garden that features a vast array of temperate and tropical plants. QR codes on many of the signs make it easy for you to learn more about any type of plant, tree, or flower that catches your interest. The Leu House Museum, which is also on the grounds, is a 19th century home that was owned by three families before Harry P. Leu purchased it in 1936. In the course of their travels, Mr. and Mrs. Leu brought plants and seeds from all over the world, creating a breathtaking natural paradise before donating the house and garden to the city of Orlando in the early 1960s.
Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe
You don’t have to be a practicing Catholic to enjoy this basilica and the church grounds. The basilica, which is right next to Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando, was permanently established in 1979 for visiting Catholic tourists. It currently features The Magnificat Windows, a bronze sculpture of Mary and the Child Jesus, and a white marble Mary Queen of the Universe statue from Italy. There is also a museum on the site with eye-catching church art from around the world.
EPCOT Center
EPCOT Center, which opened in the early 1980s, is dedicated to promoting international culture and technological innovation. It features a futuristic version of the world that is sure to capture your imagination as well as replicas of cultural and historic landmarks from countries all around the world. Time will fly as you immerse yourself in fascinating sights that you never knew existed.
Artegon Marketplace
Artegon Marketplace is relatively new compared to the historic sites and neighborhoods mentioned above, but it’s still well worth a visit. This enormous property includes over 850,000 feet of retail space and while you can find just about anything for sale here there is an emphasis on local artists, artisans, and souvenirs. There are also plenty of entertainment venues you’ll want to check out, including Sky Zone Trampoline Park, Sky Trail Ropes Course, a glow in the dark miniature golf course and the NYZ Apocalypse laser combat arena. The Food Hall, which is set to open later this year, will house eateries and a weekend farmer’s market.
Did we miss an Orlando historic spot? Feel free to let us know in the comments section below!
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