Meadow Woods, Florida

Meadow Woods is a beautiful suburban community located in Orange County, Florida. The area boasts stunning natural scenery, top-rated schools, and plenty of recreational opportunities. Whether you live in Meadow Woods or are just visiting, there are numerous places to explore and enjoy. Below are ten must-visit locations, as well as five places to avoid during your stay.

Places to Visit

1. Gatorland

Gatorland is a 110-acre wildlife preserve and theme park that offers up-close encounters with alligators and other Florida wildlife. From zip-lining over alligator-filled ponds to watching the notorious “Gator Wrestlin'” show, Gatorland is a must-visit for any animal lover.

2. Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets

Shopaholics will love the Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets, which feature over 160 designer and brand-name stores, including Nike, Coach, and Kate Spade. There is something for everyone at this shopping destination, from high-end luxury items to more affordable finds.

3. Lake Eola Park

Lake Eola Park is a beautiful 43-acre park located in downtown Orlando that features a stunning lake with a walking path, swan-shaped paddle boats, and a weekly farmer’s market. The park is also home to a variety of sculptures and art installations, making it a truly unique and scenic destination.

4. Universal Studios Florida

Universal Studios Florida is a world-renowned theme park that features thrilling rides based on popular movies and TV shows, including Harry Potter, The Simpsons, and Transformers. Visitors can also enjoy live shows, character meet and greets, and delicious food and drinks throughout the park.

5. Ocala National Forest

The Ocala National Forest is a massive 607-square-mile protected forest in central Florida that offers endless opportunities for hiking, camping, boating, and fishing. Visitors can also explore the historic Juniper Springs Recreation Area, which features crystal-clear swimming holes and natural springs.

6. Kennedy Space Center

The Kennedy Space Center is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in space travel and exploration. Visitors can tour rocket launch sites, view real-life space shuttles, and even meet former astronauts. The Center also offers hands-on exhibits and educational programs.

7. Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a unique theme park that features animal encounters, thrilling rides, and live shows. Visitors can explore exotic jungles, forests, and savannas throughout the park, and encounter real-life animals like tigers, kangaroos, and gorillas.

8. Harry P. Leu Gardens

Harry P. Leu Gardens is a beautiful 50-acre botanical garden that features over 40 different plant collections, including azaleas, camellias, and roses. Visitors can also explore the historic Leu House Museum, which dates back to the 19th century.

9. Orlando Science Center

The Orlando Science Center is an immersive and interactive museum that offers educational exhibits and programs for both children and adults. Visitors can learn about everything from anatomy and biology to physics and engineering, and can even experience a simulated trip to Mars.

10. SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando is a marine-themed park that offers a variety of animal encounters and thrilling rides. Visitors can touch and feed dolphins, sea lions, and stingrays, and can also watch live shows featuring killer whales and other sea creatures.

Places to Avoid

1. The Florida Mall

The Florida Mall is a popular shopping destination that often becomes overcrowded and chaotic, especially during peak tourist season. Additionally, the mall has a reputation for overpriced stores and pushy salespeople.

2. iFly Indoor Skydiving

While indoor skydiving may sound like a thrilling adventure, iFly in Orlando is often described as overpriced, short-lived, and underwhelming. Visitors looking for an authentic skydiving experience should book a real skydive instead.

3. Pirate’s Dinner Adventure

Pirate’s Dinner Adventure is a live dinner theater show that involves audience participation, acrobatics, and treasure-hunting. However, many visitors have described the show as cheesy and over-the-top, with lackluster food and high prices.

4. Congo River Golf

Congo River Golf is a mini-golf course that features an African safari theme, complete with waterfalls, interactive exhibits, and live gators. Despite its unique themes, many visitors have found the course to be poorly maintained and overpriced.

5. WonderWorks Orlando

WonderWorks Orlando is an indoor amusement park that features “edutainment” exhibits and rides. However, many visitors have found the park to be overcrowded and underwhelming, with overpriced admission fees and long wait times.