There is absolutely no reason to stay in an Orlando hotel, unless you're there on a convention.
Did you know that you're actually closer to Walt Disney World when you're staying in Kissimmee than in downtown Orlando?
Disney World isn't located in Orlando or Kissimmee, but in Lake Buena Vista .
So, while you do fly into Orlando, you should head west to the sights.
You never really feel that you're crossing city boundaries as you travel the roads and highways. What you do feel is that some places are more conducive to a vacation than others.
Downtown Orlando is simply not a good place to stay.
However, it is a good place to visit, especially on Sundays.
There used to be an entertainment complex, located downtown Orlando, called Church Street Station, but it went under. A plan to revitalize the area is in the works.
Located under the bridges, near the complex, were booths and vendors every Sunday, but they recently re-located.
The new location for Sunday's street fair is at Lake Eola.
This spot is truly the best that downtown Orlando has to offer:
You get the beautiful scenery.
There's the well-equipped playground.
If you visit the street fair, you can purchase yummy food and drinks, such as English meat pies, Jamaican curries, and Turkish baklava.
A passable folk singer strums his guitar in the center courtyard.
There's a ritzy-looking restauranat named Spice
which I didn't investigate further (although, I did stop later at Panera --not pictured--on the Southern end of Lake Eola for some iced chai)
Then, there are the swan boats,
which can be rented for $12 an hour.
You'll be surprised at how physically taxing it is to peddle those buggers. Before heading out, set your cell phone alarm for 15 minutes. Get out a ways, then just sit and enjoy the calm. Once your alarm goes off, then start heading back.
Should you put Lake Eola on your trip itenerary?
If you have time on your hands, you like hanging out with locals, and enjoy real life moments, then by all means, go to Lake Eola on a Sunday.
Lake Eola Map
