Orlando Florida

Orlando, Florida is home to some of the most famous theme parks in the world. Each year, millions of visitors flock to sunny central Florida to experience the thrills of the rides, and the beauty of the climate. Orlando is a permanent home to over 200,000 people - 55,000 of whom are employed as cast members at Disney World! This world famous city is home to more than just mega millionaire Mickey Mouse, however. There's plenty to see and do in Orlando other than just Disney World. Whether you're up for a relaxing stroll, a roller coaster ride, a scientific experiment, or just a day in the sun - Orlando could be the vacation destination for you!

Orlando History

Orlando has come a long way from being a small central Florida cow town! Originally, the Seminole Indians inhabited the area that now encompasses Orlando. The first Europeans to set foot on the land were the Spanish. Unlike other tribes, the Seminole weren't thrilled with the idea of Europeans settling on their territory. The Spanish fought two bloody wars to retain the land in the early 1800's - the last of which ended in 1842. After the end of the war, settlers were free to follow soldiers to central Florida, and the history of Orlando began. The first settlement grew around an old army post (Fort Gatlin), and was named Jerrigan after an early settler. The name was changed to Orlando in 1857 to honor soldier Orlando Reeves who was killed by an Indian arrow while on duty as a sentinel. The U.S. Postal Service recognized the city on July 21, 1875. Its population was only 85.

In the early years three C's drove Orlando's economy: cattle, cotton, and citrus. There was a great demand for U.S. beef from the country of Cuba, and Orlando found itself uniquely situated to provide for this need. Both in terms of agricultural and shipping abilities, Orlando soon became a number one supplier. The problems began early. Cattle rustlers moved into the small town and fought bloody gun battles on the streets. Soon, many settlers turned to the much safer industry of growing cotton. When the Civil War began, however, many of the cotton pickers moved away from Orlando and scattered among the Southern States. Employment for pickers was readily available, as the man power in the South had been depleted by the war. Cotton in central Florida reached its logical end in 1871 when a hurricane struck and destroyed nearly the entire crop. At this time, however, the demand for citrus fruits throughout the rest of the United States was immense. Growers turned to the trees to make their profits. Oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines thrive in central Florida's sandy soil. By 1870, citrus fever had hit the state. This fever continues to this day. Florida is still the number one domestic producer of most citrus fruits. 

Orlando finally got ready transportation for its massive citrus crop with the advent of the railroad. Even though growers were stymied by the 1894-1895 freeze, over 80,000 rolling acres were soon given up to the production of citrus. Progress followed the railroad rapidly. Electricity, telephones, cars and even airports appeared in the early 20th century. In 1922, the Martin Marietta missile factory (now known as Lockheed Martin) moved in, and staffed thousands of workers.

1971 was perhaps the biggest year in the history of Orlando. After viewing various sites across the state, the Walt Disney Corporation chose the rolling acres just outside of Orlando as the home of its first theme park outside of California. Walt Disney World opened to visitors in that same year, and has since celebrated its 25th anniversary, and the 75th anniversary of that loveable lead character: Mickey Mouse. Disney World was rapidly followed by other tourist attractions. Sea World (featuring the giant killer whale Shamu, and leaping dolphins) opened in 1973. The 1990's added even more competition with the openings of both the Universal Studios Great Escape, and Islands of Adventure. Tourist numbers continue to swell each year. Orlando changed from its roots as a rough and tumble cow town into a Mecca of modern entertainment.

Major Attractions

Walt Disney World
One can't talk about attractions in Orlando without noting the first and perhaps the finest: Walt Disney World. The park is about more than just rides. You can literally settle in here. There are hotels that meet just about every budget, and the shopping opportunities are enormous. A monorail is available to take you between Disney World's four theme parks, three water parks, and other diversions. You can watch sporting events, or enjoy active nightlife after a long day of diversion. The park itself encompasses of forty square miles, and is the largest family entertainment facility in the world. You can enjoy everything from enormous rides to Broadway quality entertainment - or a round of golf at one of the park's eight courses. Don't miss the Lion King show at Animal World. 

Universal Studios Great Escape
If you're a movie buff, you'll probably enjoy Universal Studios Great Escape. Located near the southern suburbs of Orlando, this park isn't nearly as large as Disney World, but it can be just as entertaining. The area contains two major theme parks for your enjoyment. You can also stay in a luxury hotel, or enjoy the gigantic shopping, dining, and entertainment complex. The brand new Islands of Adventure theme park is regarded as one of the most technologically complex in the world. Its rides are thrill packed and breathtaking. Just across the road is the Wet N' Wild water park, where you can go to cool off after a long day of fun. This park is pure Hollywood brand entertainment! It makes you feel like you're actively participating in some of your favorite blockbuster movies!

Sea World Orlando
Sea World Orlando is the largest Sea World theme park in the United States. It features several rides - including a huge roller coaster - but the main attractions are of course its marine performers. All day long there are shows featuring seals, dolphins, and killer whales that allow the viewer an up close experience with animals they may otherwise never encounter. You can also watch highly acrobatic water skiing. Sea World can be a vastly educational experience, as well as an entertaining one. Skilled staff members are dedicated to educating tourists on almost all aspects of marine life. 

Sports Teams

Orlando Magic
The Orlando Magic joined the NBA for in the 1989-1990 season. It didn't take long for the team to get its proverbial feet wet and establish itself as a contender. In their brief history, the Orlando Magic has become a very popular team - both because of their record, and due to the success of their players. In fact, the Orlando Magic has made some of the best NBA draft picks of the past decade. In 1992 the team drafted the Shaquille O'Neal, and his raw talent drove them towards the Eastern Division NBA finals. Other great draft picks were: Dennis Scott, Penny Hardaway, and Tracy McGrady. Although the team had a difficult 2003-2004 season, they're expected to make a crushing comeback. Check them out at the TD Waterhouse Centre in Orlando, and you're guaranteed a hoops thriller!

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