Orlando Offers Plenty of Grown-Up Fun, Too

by  Jim Sherman | Nov 25, 2009
Omni Orlando Resort
Omni Orlando Resort / Photo courtesy of the property

I'm just returning from a conference in Orlando. This über family-friendly destination has a cornucopia of travel fun for kids and adults. Now, I was here for work, but the signs for Disney, Sea World, Epcot, and Celebration couldn't help but get me interested in a return trip with my 7-year-old nephew. What's not to like?

The only inconvenience with Orlando is that places are quite far apart. Everything seems to be a 20- or 30-minute drive. I happened to stay at the Omni Resort Champions Gate. If you love golf, this is the place to stay. Even if you don't, the place has beautiful grounds and is among the area's solid upscale properties. There are a lot of conventioneers at the Omni but also plenty of leisure travelers who take advantage of the beautiful pool and outdoor cafe.

For dining, I found two excellent spots. Seasons 52 (called this because of seasonal menu changes to accommodate the freshest food) is eclectic with solid american dishes along with some asian ones. The food is first rate. Another excellent option, especially if you like meat, is Ocean Prime. The space is quite stunning and the steak is amazing (I had the filet, which was as tender as can be). There are also lots of good seafood options on the menu, as well as an extensive wine list.

These two restaurants were large, which seems to be common in Orlando. For a more intimate setting, try Christini's. It's more formal and it has perhaps the best Italian food in the city. Note that the better restaurants all seem to be located outside dowtown Orlando. I was surprised to learn this. I can't say why, but this is how the area has evolved.

So, if you are in Orlando and are looking for adult dining options, these are good choices to consider!

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