Orlando Beyond the Theme Parks

Janeen Christoff
by Janeen Christoff
Last updated: 4:30 PM ET, Wed September 21, 2016

There is more to Orlando than just its fabulous theme parks and slowing down is possible - and unique. CNN's Sarah Sekula discovers Orlando's quieter side.

"There comes a point during any Orlando vacation when it's high time to ditch the masses and venture away from the theme parks. When that moment comes, there are plenty of side excursions that deliver a change of pace, whether it's signing yourself up for a hammock massage or mastering the trapeze," writes Sekula.

If your body is worn out from riding roller coasters, try Hammock therapy suggests Sekula.

"The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, offers a 70-minute hammock massage at the rooftop eco garden that will have you smiling and perhaps even snoozing," she suggests.

Chilling out in a cabana is another option.

"Comfy couch? Check. Adirondack chairs? Check. Coffee table? Check. A private cabana at Wekiva Island certainly has the creature comforts covered," writes Sekula.

Wekiva Island is a recreational outpost along the Wekiva River in Longwood. There is wildlife spotting, canoeing and more - as well as the aforementioned cabanas.

When you are ready to get active again, Elite Road Bike Rentals has you covered.

READ MORE: First Taste: Toothsome Chocolate Emporium at Universal Orlando

"The 20-mile tour begins downtown and takes riders through Loch Haven Park, which is full of outdoor art and "The Mayor," a massive live oak tree that was around when the Constitution was signed. Instagram worthy, indeed," says Sekula.

There are also places to see bioluminescence and Broadway-caliber shows. To learn more about Orlando's quieter side, read on here.


For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.

Topics From This Article to Explore

More From TravelPulse

Related Videos

Janeen Christoff

Janeen Christoff

Executive Editor - AGENTatHOME | TravelPulse Content Strategy

Editor Executive Editor - AGENTatHOME | TravelPulse Content Strategy true [email protected] 9088 14744 Janeen Christoff caught the travel bug while living in London, England. After two years on the road, she settled in Los Angeles and focused her writing on

Grow Your Travel Business With Certified Courses

Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Majestic Resorts Specialist ProgramDiscover all-inclusive luxury at Majestic Resorts in paradise.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Los Cabos Specialist ProgramSell the magic of Los Cabos: luxury, adventure, and endless sunshine.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Allianz Specialist ProgramProtect every journey with Allianz Partners Travel Insurance.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Majestic Resorts Specialist ProgramDiscover all-inclusive luxury at Majestic Resorts in paradise.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Los Cabos Specialist ProgramSell the magic of Los Cabos: luxury, adventure, and endless sunshine.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Allianz Specialist ProgramProtect every journey with Allianz Partners Travel Insurance.

Don't Miss These Travel Agent Events and Trainings

Upcoming Webinar
Every Island Tells a Story: Part 2 – Selling the Caribbean Through Immersive ExperiencesWednesday, August 19, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
Continue the journey in the second installment of our Every Island Tells a Story webinar series. This...
Upcoming Webinar
The Art of Destination Recommendation: Alternative Destination Strategies for Travel AdvisorsTuesday, August 18, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
What if your next best sale is a destination your client hasn’t considered—and you’ve never visited?...
Upcoming Webinar
From Interest to Booking: Selling HANKYU × PONANT Japan CruisesFriday, August 21, 2026
4:00pm Eastern
Take the next step in selling HANKYU × PONANT Japan cruises with a practical, advisor focused look at...
Upcoming Webinar
Every Island Tells a Story: Part 2 – Selling the Caribbean Through Immersive ExperiencesWednesday, August 19, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
Continue the journey in the second installment of our Every Island Tells a Story webinar series. This...
Upcoming Webinar
The Art of Destination Recommendation: Alternative Destination Strategies for Travel AdvisorsTuesday, August 18, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
What if your next best sale is a destination your client hasn’t considered—and you’ve never visited?...
Upcoming Webinar
From Interest to Booking: Selling HANKYU × PONANT Japan CruisesFriday, August 21, 2026
4:00pm Eastern
Take the next step in selling HANKYU × PONANT Japan cruises with a practical, advisor focused look at...