Let’s talk about destinations outside Disney, first non-Park ones. There’s the usual assortment of chain restaurants. Actually, more than the usual assortment. Orlando is considered a “test-market” for many restaurants because they get customers from all over the country. Of course we visit the Outback’s and the Bahama Breeze’s, but don’t ignore some of the local restaurants either. Some are tourist traps with poor food, but some are well run family operations. Look for coupons in the free tourist booklets in the dispensers outside stores. Also, don’t get offended by the “tip guides” that are in many menus, Europeans are accustomed to the gratuity being in the price. Many a service person in Florida has been unintentionally “forgotten” by European customers…thus the tip guide.
Supermarkets…the biggest chain is Publix, it is just like any big chain near your home. We find them well run and friendly. There are also a couple of Super-Walmarts. The small convenience store markets will be even more expensive than you anticipate. Also, don’t buy gas for your car in 192 right near the Disney entrance, it is inflated. Drive a few miles away, or buy it at the Hess stations in Disney (Magic Kingdom or opposite Hollywood Studios). It is surprisingly competitive. Finally, there’s plenty of Walgreens all around, and urgent-care centers for those vacation ear-aches.
On rainy days we still go to the Parks. But if you don’t want to, there’s a big cinema near Disney, and there’s always Downtown Disney and it’s indoor attractions. If you go to a non-Disney dinner show, expect more from the show than the dinner. Favorites of ours are Dixie Stampede and Sleuth’s Murder Mystery.
Another non-Park diversion is of course the old favorite, miniature golf. Our most popular is Winter-Summerland near Hollywood Studios. Two courses, one a winter and one a summer theme. Winter’s a little harder. There is also a course opposite Hollywood Studios by the Swan/Dolphin hotels. And there are plenty of privately owned courses along 192, but quality varies greatly.
Next, what about those other Parks….
Supermarkets…the biggest chain is Publix, it is just like any big chain near your home. We find them well run and friendly. There are also a couple of Super-Walmarts. The small convenience store markets will be even more expensive than you anticipate. Also, don’t buy gas for your car in 192 right near the Disney entrance, it is inflated. Drive a few miles away, or buy it at the Hess stations in Disney (Magic Kingdom or opposite Hollywood Studios). It is surprisingly competitive. Finally, there’s plenty of Walgreens all around, and urgent-care centers for those vacation ear-aches.
On rainy days we still go to the Parks. But if you don’t want to, there’s a big cinema near Disney, and there’s always Downtown Disney and it’s indoor attractions. If you go to a non-Disney dinner show, expect more from the show than the dinner. Favorites of ours are Dixie Stampede and Sleuth’s Murder Mystery.
Another non-Park diversion is of course the old favorite, miniature golf. Our most popular is Winter-Summerland near Hollywood Studios. Two courses, one a winter and one a summer theme. Winter’s a little harder. There is also a course opposite Hollywood Studios by the Swan/Dolphin hotels. And there are plenty of privately owned courses along 192, but quality varies greatly.
Next, what about those other Parks….