Welcome to Orlando, Florida, a popular summer destination that is much more than its famous theme parks and attractions. While Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort draw crowds from around the world, Orlando holds a collection of hidden gems waiting to be discovered during the summer season. And there’s no better way to experience these treasures than by staying with Casiola vacation homes. Offering a range of comfortable and luxurious vacation rentals, Casiola ensures that your Orlando stay is not only convenient but also provides easy access to the city’s hidden wonders. In this blog, we’ll unveil the natural beauty, cultural richness, unique dining experiences, and outdoor adventures that make Orlando truly special. From picturesque parks like Lake Eola and Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve to the artistic delights of the Cornell Fine Arts Museum, there’s something for everyone. Plus, with Casiola vacation homes as your home away from home, you can relax and recharge after each day of exploration. Get ready to uncover the secret side of Orlando and create unforgettable summer memories.
Exploring the Natural Wonders
When it comes to immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Orlando, there are hidden gems that will take your breath away. One such gem is Lake Eola Park, a tranquil oasis in the heart of downtown Orlando. As you stroll along the scenic pathways, you’ll be captivated by the park’s picturesque beauty, with its glistening lake and lush greenery. For a unique experience, rent a swan-shaped paddleboat and glide across the serene waters, taking in the stunning views from a different perspective. Don’t miss the Sunday Farmers Market, where you can indulge in fresh local produce, delectable treats, and handcrafted goods while enjoying live music and the vibrant atmosphere. Lake Eola Park also hosts a variety of events throughout the summer, from cultural festivals to concerts, ensuring there’s always something exciting happening.
Venturing further, the Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve beckons nature enthusiasts with its diverse ecosystem and captivating hiking trails. Explore the preserve’s enchanting woodlands, marshes, and wetlands, and be prepared to encounter a plethora of wildlife. Birdwatchers will delight in the opportunity to spot a variety of avian species, while reptile enthusiasts may come across sunbathing turtles and skinks. With each step, the Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, inviting you to connect with nature and discover the hidden wonders that await.
For an unforgettable aquatic adventure, head to Wekiwa Springs State Park, where crystal-clear springs await your arrival. Dive into the refreshing waters of the natural swimming area, feeling the coolness rejuvenate your senses on a hot summer day. Embrace the opportunity for outdoor recreation as you embark on a canoeing, kayaking, or paddleboarding expedition along the park’s stunning waterways. As you navigate through the lush vegetation, keep an eye out for native wildlife that calls the park home. If you prefer to stay on land, Wekiwa Springs State Park offers an extensive network of natural trails, perfect for leisurely hikes or picnicking amidst the breathtaking surroundings. Nature lovers and adventure seekers alike will find solace and excitement in the awe-inspiring landscapes of this hidden gem.
Orlando’s natural wonders are not limited to its famous theme parks. By exploring Lake Eola Park, Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve, and Wekiwa Springs State Park, you’ll discover the enchanting side of Orlando that often goes unnoticed. Take the time to appreciate the scenic beauty, engage in outdoor activities, and revel in the tranquility of these hidden gems. Let nature guide your summer adventure, creating unforgettable memories in the heart of Orlando’s natural wonders.
Cultural and Artistic Delights
Orlando is not just a city of thrilling adventures, it also boasts a rich cultural and artistic scene that is worth exploring. One such hidden gem is the Cornell Fine Arts Museum, a hidden treasure within Rollins College. Step into this museum, and you’ll be immersed in a world of artistic brilliance. The collection showcases an impressive array of artworks from various periods, including Renaissance, Baroque, and contemporary pieces. From paintings and sculptures to photography and decorative arts, the Cornell Fine Arts Museum offers a diverse and thought-provoking experience. Keep an eye out for any special summer programs or events that the museum might host, as they provide unique opportunities to engage with the artworks and gain a deeper understanding of the artistic realm.
Another must-visit destination for art enthusiasts is the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art. This museum is renowned for its extensive collection of stunning Tiffany glass, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship and exquisite beauty of Louis Comfort Tiffany’s creations. Delve into the world of stained glass masterpieces, lamps, jewelry, and other decorative objects that exemplify the Art Nouveau and Art Deco movements. Learn about the museum’s fascinating history and discover notable exhibits that bring to life the legacy of Charles Hosmer Morse and his passion for preserving American art. The Morse Museum is a true haven for art lovers, where you can marvel at the brilliance of Tiffany’s artistry.
For lovers of the performing arts, the Orlando Shakespeare Theater is a cultural hidden gem not to be missed. As the summer season unfolds, the theater comes alive with captivating performances that transport audiences into the realm of Shakespearean plays and other theatrical works. Immerse yourself in the timeless words of the Bard as the talented actors bring his characters to life on stage. If you visit during the Shakespeare Festival, you’ll have the opportunity to witness a series of remarkable productions that celebrate the genius of William Shakespeare. In addition to the festival, the theater hosts a range of other theatrical events, ensuring there’s always a captivating performance to enjoy during your visit.
Orlando’s cultural and artistic scene extends far beyond its theme parks. The Cornell Fine Arts Museum, Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, and Orlando Shakespeare Theater provide enriching experiences that showcase the depth and beauty of human creativity. From admiring masterpieces to being captivated by live performances, these hidden gems offer an escape into the world of art and culture, inviting you to explore and appreciate the diverse artistic expressions found in the heart of Orlando.
Unique Dining and Shopping Experiences
Orlando’s hidden gems extend beyond its natural wonders and cultural offerings. The city is also a paradise for food enthusiasts and avid shoppers, offering a range of unique dining and shopping experiences. One such hidden gem is the East End Market, a vibrant marketplace that brings together local food vendors and artisans. Explore the stalls filled with fresh produce, artisanal products, and delectable treats. The market’s farm-to-table concept ensures that you indulge in the finest locally sourced ingredients while supporting the community. Beyond the gastronomic delights, the East End Market also hosts community events, such as workshops and cooking classes, providing opportunities to learn and connect with like-minded individuals.
For a taste of the local harvest and handmade goods, head to the Winter Park Farmer’s Market. This bustling market is a haven for fresh produce, plants, and unique crafts. Stroll through the vibrant stalls, filled with colorful fruits, vegetables, and flowers, as well as handcrafted goods. Immerse yourself in the welcoming atmosphere as you chat with local vendors, sample delicious treats, and discover one-of-a-kind treasures. Live music fills the air, adding a delightful ambiance to your shopping experience.
If you’re craving a diverse culinary adventure, make your way to the Mills 50 District. This vibrant neighborhood boasts a plethora of dining options, with a particular focus on Asian cuisines. From mouthwatering Thai dishes to authentic Vietnamese pho and Japanese sushi, the district is a haven for food lovers seeking exotic flavors and culinary diversity. As you wander through the district, you’ll also come across unique shops that offer everything from quirky clothing boutiques to specialty stores. Admire the vibrant street art that adorns the area, adding an artistic touch to your shopping excursion.
Orlando’s hidden gems in the dining and shopping scene provide a rich tapestry of experiences for visitors and locals alike. From the bustling East End Market, the fresh abundance of the Winter Park Farmer’s Market, to the culinary adventure that awaits in the Mills 50 District, these hidden treasures ensure a memorable and unique exploration of Orlando’s vibrant food and shopping culture.
Outdoor Adventures and Recreation
While Orlando is known for its theme parks, the city also offers a plethora of outdoor adventures and recreational opportunities for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. One hidden gem for thrill-seekers is the Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park. Nestled amidst lush forests, this park features exhilarating zip lines, challenging aerial obstacle courses, and team-building activities. With different difficulty levels suitable for all ages and skill levels, the Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park provides a memorable and exciting experience surrounded by the beauty of nature.
For a more relaxed outdoor experience, visit Lake Baldwin Park. This picturesque park offers a variety of recreational facilities, including scenic walking trails and a designated dog park for furry friends to frolic. Take advantage of the park’s serene lake by embarking on paddleboarding or kayaking adventures, or cast a line and enjoy fishing in its tranquil waters. Lake Baldwin Park is the perfect oasis for those seeking outdoor tranquility and leisurely pursuits.
If you prefer to explore the city on two wheels or by foot, the Orlando Urban Trail is a hidden gem worth discovering. This trail offers a scenic route through downtown Orlando, allowing you to soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere while surrounded by greenery. The trail’s bike-friendly infrastructure makes it convenient for cyclists to navigate, and it also seamlessly connects to other city trails, providing opportunities for longer and more adventurous excursions. Whether you choose to bike, walk, or jog along the Orlando Urban Trail, you’ll enjoy the beauty of the city from a unique perspective.
Orlando’s hidden outdoor adventures and recreational spots cater to a wide range of interests and activity levels. From the adrenaline-pumping Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park, the serene beauty of Lake Baldwin Park, to the urban exploration offered by the Orlando Urban Trail, the city provides a diverse array of outdoor experiences that allow visitors to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors.
Enhance your Orlando adventure: Unforgettable summertime gems await with Casiola vacation homes
Orlando’s hidden gems during summertime offer a world of possibilities beyond the renowned theme parks. From the natural wonders of Lake Eola Park, Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve, and Wekiwa Springs State Park, to the cultural and artistic delights found at the Cornell Fine Arts Museum, Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, and the Orlando Shakespeare Theater, this city reveals a diverse tapestry of experiences. Don’t forget to indulge in the unique dining and shopping opportunities at East End Market, Winter Park Farmer’s Market, and the Mills 50 District. By venturing off the beaten path, you’ll discover a side of Orlando that goes beyond expectations. And when it comes to accommodations, Casiola vacation homes offers a range of comfortable options, ensuring a relaxing stay. So, embrace the chance to create unforgettable memories and embark on extraordinary adventures in Orlando—where hidden treasures await those who seek a deeper exploration of this enchanting city.
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Gorgeous, Newly Decorated Condo w/Private Patio!
Condo - Vista Cay Resort - Orlando
This redecorated deluxe condo at Vista Cay Resorts is the best retreat for your next Orlando vacation! The fully equipped kitchen has stainless steel appliances and every tool you need to cook up tasty dishes! Enjoy your family meals together at the large dining table for 6 or at the breakfast bar! The living room sofa and chairs provide plenty of space for everyone to relax and enjoy a movie or TV show together on a brand new smart TV! A spacious and cozy balcony is located right off of the living room where everyone can enjoy their morning coffee! The master bedroom has a king size bed as well as a spacious en suite bathroom with a walk-in shower and garden tub! Bedroom 2 has 2 full size beds and bedroom 3 has a queen size bed. Both bedroom 2 and 3 have smart TV's as well and share a spacious bathroom! Fully equipped laundry, FREE WiFi and parking are included! Vista Cay Resort is right next door to the Orange County Convention Center, and less than 15 minutes away from all major theme parks, including SeaWorld, Universal Studios and Walt Disney World.- 8
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$135/night -
Stunning and renovated townhome, next to the Orange County Convention Center!
Townhome - Vista Cay Resort - Orlando
This stunning and completely renovated townhome is located in a prime location, next door to the Orange County Convention Center, and less than 15 minutes away from all major theme parks (Universal Studios, Walt Disney World and SeaWorld). Decorated in a modern style, this townhome offers luxury and warmth for the perfect relaxing getaway you've been looking for! The luxurious master suite offers a king size bed and a spacious private bathroom that has his and her sinks built in. On the first floor the second large bedroom offers a queen size bed and a twin size bed, also comes equipped with its very own private bathroom. On the top floor you will find the third bedroom with two full beds and a private bathroom. All the bedrooms include TV's. In the living room there is an oversized TV, perfect for that family movie night. The kitchen comes completely equipped with all the essentials you need to create the perfect meal for your loved ones. A half bath is located on the main level for your convenience This unit is also equipped with a full size washer and dryer to offer you the ability to pack light for your trip. The property is located on the main phase of the Vista Cay Resort and includes complimentary access to the fitness facilities and resort pools.- 9
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$152/night -
Stunning 6BD Pool Home, just minutes from Disney World!
House - ChampionsGate Resort - Orlando
A good vacation starts with the right location! This 6-bedroom/6.5 bath home with private pool in ChampionsGate Resort pulls out all the stops, offering you the perfect getaway option for your Orlando vacation! As a guest of ChampionsGate Resort, you will have free, unlimited access to all resort amenities, including: -25,000-square-foot "Oasis Clubhouse" -Zero-entry Family Pool and Whirlpool -Kids Pool and Splash Pad -3 Waterslides -Lazy River -Adults-only Pool -Tiki Bar -Spa -Full-service Restaurant and Bar -Fitness Center and Aerobics Room -Game/Arcade Room -Movie Theater -Volleyball and Tennis Courts -And more! THE SPACE: Cool and comfortable, the spacious living room has a large sectional couch and chair to watch the flat-screen TV. Or, unplug completely and have a good conversation over a board or card game. An additional living room upstairs offers more living space with a couch, love seat and another flat-screen TV. Whether you’re a foodie at heart or would rather just order takeout, the gorgeous and fully-equipped kitchen has everything you need come meal time. From the granite counters to the stainless appliances to the dark wood cabinets, the kitchen is as pretty as it is practical. The large kitchen bar area offers 4 bar stools. For additional dining space, the nearby dining table has seating for 10. Out on the back patio, throw your favorite meats and veggies on the grill for a simple dinner. Dine al fresco at the six-person patio table, taking advantage of year-round amazing weather. You’ll love soaking up the Florida sunshine while the kids splash in the nice-sized pool with attached spa all enclosed in a lanai. **Optional pool and spa heat is available for $35/day + tax. - We recommend adding this option to your reservation between the months of November and April.** Shut down any boredom mutiny and send the kiddos to the fun game room. There, they can play foosball and air hockey and just enjoy their own space. A pretty palette of blues and greens mix with wood furniture to create a restful and tranquil atmosphere in all the bedrooms. Three of the bedrooms offer a king bed, two have queen beds and the other offers a full and twin bed. There’s plenty of space for everyone here! The home also has one half bath and six full bathrooms, including an incredible master bathroom with double sinks, soaking tub and walk-in shower. This vacation home is equipped with modern conveniences and at-home amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi and a laundry room with washer and dryer. Whether it’s the location, the amenities, or the style – you can’t go wrong with stay at Champions Gate Resort! You will be staying less than 20 minutes from Universal Studios, Disney World and other Orlando theme parks. As part of the ChampionsGate community, numerous restaurants, grocery store, drug stores, and other retailers are close by and easily accessible.- 12
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Luxury top floor condo with spectacular view of the new Orlando Eye!!!
Condo - Vista Cay Resort - Orlando
Enjoy the best of what Orlando has to offer and stay centrally located to its top attractions at the beautiful Vista Cay Resort. Florida Palms is a luxury top-floor condo with all the amenities you could ever want in a vacation home. Kick off your flip flops and enjoy the deluxe furniture in the living area, complete with a 42-inch HDTV with DVD player. An elegant formal dining area has a lovely wooden table with seating for six guests, so enjoying meals together is easy and enjoyable. The gourmet kitchen is a cook’s dream with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops and a breakfast bar. Sleeping accommodations include a master suite with a king bed, large master bath with soaking tub and walk-in shower and his-and-her sinks. A second bedroom features a queen bed and there are two twin beds in the third bedroom. All bedrooms host their own TV. A queen sofa sleeper in the living area offers room for more guests, allowing the condo to comfortably accommodate 8 guests. The walk out balcony has a spectacular view over the new Orlando Eye. Vista Cay Resort is right next door to the Orange County Convention Center, and less than 10 minutes away from all major theme parks, including SeaWorld, Universal Studios and Walt Disney World.- 8
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$129/night
4 of 250 properties
