Most of us immediately conjure up images of Disney World when we think about Orlando Florida. But Orlando has much to offer beyond the well known and beloved tourist attractions. From golf to fine dinning, shopping and entertainment, Orlando welcomes all ages of vacationers with a wide variety of activities and events.

Orlando is a paradise for shoppers with a huge number of outlets and bargain centers offering upscale merchandise for the value conscious shopper. Orlando is also famous for theme-based shopping venues, such as Pointe Orlando and the Mercado Mediterranean Village, both located within walking distance from the Convention Center and Conference hotels. Use the economical I-RIDE Trolley, with stops at most local malls and outlet centers.

Those who wish to combine their shopping, dining, and entertainment in one location, should be sure to visit Downtown Disney and Universal Studios City Walk. Each complex offers acres of restaurants, specialty shops, nightclubs, theaters and live entertainment.

Orlando is also home to a great variety of quality restaurants, offering outstanding customer service. Your choices are unlimited, from the world’s biggest McDonalds to luxury 5-star dining, and everything in between. Or try one of our celebrity restaurants and cafes, such as Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville at CityWalk, Planet Hollywood, Emeril’s Restaurant, and Wolfgang Puck’s Grand Café. Miami Dolphins football fans will enjoy Dan Marinos’ Town Tavern at Pointe Orlando, and Shula’s Steak House at Disney’s Swan & Dolphin Hotel.

If dancing, clubs, and fun after dark are what you’re looking for, there’s lots to choose from at nearby CityWalk, including The Grove and The Latin Quarter. Pleasure Island at Downtown Disney offers a wide variety of clubs featuring live entertainment, including the House of Blues, Pleasure Island Jazz Company, Mannequin’s Dance Palace, and the BET Soundstage. Want something within walking distance of the Convention Center and I-Drive hotels, check out the clubs at Pointe*Orlando – Matrix and Metropolis and XS Orlando – or take the I-RIDE Trolley (or a cab after 10:30 pm) and enjoy International Drive After Dark.