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Enjoy a special limited time menu through April and live performances from fierce females every Friday and Saturday nights in March! WHO RUNS THE WORLD? Girls! Hard Rock Cafe Orlando at Universal's Citywalk are celebrating Women Who Rock during International Woman's Month and are inviting everyone for the party. Join Hard Rock Cafe Orlando every Friday and Saturday night for live entertainment from Orlando's fiercest females! Enjoy special menu offerings all month long and help us give back with a portion of food and beverage donated to the Magee-Women's Research Institute & Foundation & Global Gift Foundation through Hard Rock Heals. Entertainment Schedule: 3/1 Sandra Hess 7p-10p (Rock Bar Patio) 3/2 Hannah Pawlak (Rock Bar Patio) 3/8 DJ Lindsey Leigh 5p-8p (Cafe Main Floor) 3/9 Karie Sarita (Rock Bar Patio) 3/15 Sandra Hess (Rock Bar Patio) 3/16 Madison Moon (Rock Bar Patio) 3/22 Sandra Hess (Rock Bar Patio) 3/23 Karie Sarita (Rock Bar Patio) 3/29 Karie Sarita (Rock Bar Patio) 3/30 Madison Moon (Rock Bar Patio) To keep up to date with the very latest happenings in Orlando, sign up to the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter, and follow us on our social accounts to find the best events: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Discover the best of Orlando with our daily updated news, featuring the Best Things To Do: Entertainment News, Live Music & Concerts News, Events & Festival News, Theater & The Visual Arts News, Bar, Club & Nightlife News, and Food & Drink News. For the latest events in Orlando, check out our events guides: Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Month, Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend, and FREE Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend. To feature your business with Gotta Go Orlando learn more about advertising with us, and to or list your events with us, submit your Orlando events here.

Popular Orlando neighborhood restaurant, The Strand has expanded its footprint in the Mills 50 district opening a bar right next door! Mills 50 staple, The Strand has taken over the empty space next door to their restaurant and created a small, inviting bar called d.b.a. aka Doing Business As... The new bar is located directly next door to the Strand at 809 N. Mills Ave, and features delicious cocktails, bar snacks, and vinyl music. No reservations necessary — just swing by, they have bar seating and tables available. d.b.a. is open Tuesday - Saturday, 5 - 9 pm, and is strictly 21+. To keep up to date with the very latest happenings in Orlando, sign up to the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter, and follow us on our social accounts to find the best events: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Discover the best of Orlando with our daily updated news, featuring the Best Things To Do: Entertainment News, Live Music & Concerts News, Events & Festival News, Theater & The Visual Arts News, Bar, Club & Nightlife News, and Food & Drink News. For the latest events in Orlando, check out our events guides: Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Month, Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend, and FREE Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend. To feature your business with Gotta Go Orlando learn more about advertising with us, and to or list your events with us, submit your Orlando events here.

Peso Pluma has announced a huge tour of North America, with the Éxodo Tour taking the Mexican singer-songwriter to over 35 arenas including Tampa's Amalie Arena. The international record-shattering music sensation Peso Pluma has announced his highly anticipated 2024 tour in partnership with Live Nation. The tour which includes over 35 shows and countless cities across North America. After selling out 54 shows in 2023, breaking numerous record awards, and winning a GRAMMY for his album “Genesis,” Peso Pluma returns to arenas with an all-new show, inclusive of a fully reimagined set design and setlist, featuring his remarkable live band. The tour will stop off in Tampa on June 21, with Pluma taking to the stage at Amalie Arena. Tickets are available now via a Live Nation presale (Code: TAMPA) with general release rockets available Friday, Feb. 23. Get tickets here. For the latest concert announcements, presale codes and more be sure to check out our latest live music and concert news, and for all the latest entertainment news click here. To keep up to date with the very latest happenings in Orlando, sign up to the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter, and follow us on our social accounts to find the best events: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Discover the best of Orlando with our daily updated news, featuring the Best Things To Do: Entertainment News, Live Music & Concerts News, Events & Festival News, Theater & The Visual Arts News, Bar, Club & Nightlife News, and Food & Drink News. For the latest events in Orlando, check out our events guides: Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Month, Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend, and FREE Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend. For the very latest Orlando Theme Park News click here, and for the latest Attractions News click here. Plus, check out our daily updated guides to Central Florida's Theme Parks: Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando, LEGOLAND Florida, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. To feature your business with Gotta Go Orlando learn more about advertising with us, and to or list your events with us, submit your Orlando events here.

A bittersweet tale of the Russian aristocracy facing love, loss, monetary struggle and major societal changes ­­— all on the brink of revolution. The Cherry Orchard is the latest production from Theatre UCF, and will be performed in the Black Box Theater from February 29 - March 10, 2024. The aristocratic family is sociable, intelligent, and hopelessly in debt. Unless they can find funding, their huge estate—including a much-loved cherry orchard—will go to auction. As they spend one last summer on their beautiful country property, talks of nostalgia and lost dreams mask their fears of the social and political upheaval ahead of them. A masterful piece, written by the world-renowned Russian playwright Anton Chekhov, is a classic and heart-wrenching rendition of a family grappling with disrupted social order. The Cherry Orchard contains adult language, references to suicide, substance abuse and staged physical violence. Tickets are $25 each, or $10 with a UCF ID. Get details and tickets here. The Cherry Orchard is by Anton Chekhov Translation by Jean-Claude van Itallie Directed by Roberta Emerson Theatre building 6 is the performance space for Theatre UCF, part of the UCF School of Performing Arts. The building consists of a Main Stage theater, a Black Box theater, and Theatre UCF’s costume and scenic shops. The box office in this building is open two hours prior to theatre performances. Patron parking for performances is in parking lot D1. To keep up to date with the very latest happenings in Orlando, sign up to the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter, and follow us on our social accounts to find the best events: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Discover the best of Orlando with our daily updated news, featuring the Best Things To Do: Entertainment News, Live Music & Concerts News, Events & Festival News, Theater & The Visual Arts News, Bar, Club & Nightlife News, and Food & Drink News. For the latest events in Orlando, check out our events guides: Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Month, Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend, and FREE Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend. To feature your business with Gotta Go Orlando learn more about advertising with us, and to or list your events with us, submit your Orlando events here.

Mark your calendars for the grand opening of Great Wolf Lodge South Florida, with the resorts first Florida location opening in Naples on October 1, 2024. The highly anticipated new Great Wolf Lodge South Florida is set to be an exciting addition to the Great Wolf Resorts family, becoming the brand's 21st resort in North America. Boasting 500 family-friendly suites and a sprawling 100,000-square-foot indoor water park, Great Wolf has announced that the grand opening of Great Wolf Lodge South Florida is set for October 1, 2024, with reservations now open from Sept. 25, 2024. To celebrate the launch, Great Wold Lodge is offering grand opening savinfgs of 25% off one night stays or 30% off 2+ night stays. Great Wolf Lodge South Florida sits on 20 acres on the eastern edge of Collier County, near the I-75 and Collier Blvd interchange and next to the Paradise Coast Sports Complex. Highlight of the resort is a massive indoor water park, heated to an all-year round 84 degrees, that includes 12 slides, three pools and two interactive water play zones. Also included is Breakaway Bay, a family raft adventure that can fit five riders. Other water park highlights include High Paw Holler Slide, Forest Flume Slide, Rapid Racer Tube Ride, River Canyon Run Raft Ride, Slap Tail Pond Wave Pool, Crooked Creek Lazy River, Otter Springs Play Pool, Chinook Cove Activity Pool, and Big Foot Pass Water Obstacle Course! The resort will also include arcade games, mini bowling, rope course, and Great Wolf's exclusive interactive adventure game, MagiQuest, and even a Build-a-Bear Store. Kids activities include character appearances, yoga, dance parties, arts & crafts and more. So why is the resort being built in South Florida and not Orlando? Once upon a time Great Wold Lodge planed to open its biggest ever resort in Orlando, but with the plans abandoned, the company have announced it will open its first Florida location, and it biggest in Naples, South Florida. Great Wolf Lodge Orlando was announced in a blaze of publicity back in January 2016. The resort was to be built adjacent to the Sheraton Vistana Resort Villas, just north of Marriott Sabal Palms and Marriott World Center. The massive resort would have included 800 suites and a 100,000 sq foot indoor and outdoor waterpark, Great Wolf's first Florida location, so what happened? Ground was due to break on the project in 2019, but somewhere along the way, Great Wolf Resorts cnceled the entire project, and instead sold the land in August 2018. To keep up to date with the very latest happenings in Orlando, sign up to the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter, and follow us on our social accounts to find the best events: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Discover the best of Orlando with our daily updated news, featuring the Best Things To Do: Entertainment News, Live Music & Concerts News, Events & Festival News, Theater & The Visual Arts News, Bar, Club & Nightlife News, and Food & Drink News. For the latest events in Orlando, check out our events guides: Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Month, Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend, and FREE Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend. To feature your business with Gotta Go Orlando learn more about advertising with us, and to or list your events with us, submit your Orlando events here.

The House of Mouse Expo is a fan event for like minded people with a family feel. Now in its 3rd year, the event is taking place in a new and bigger location, Osceola Heritage Park Events Center. The House of Mouse Expo is a fan event for all properties under the Disney umbrella. The event takes place over two days at the Osceola Heritage Center on Saturday March 2 and Sunday March 3, 2024. Featuring celebrity guests, artists, vendors, panels, costume contests and more. This is a family-friendly event for all ages supporting Give Kids the World. Celerity guests taking part in panels and photo ops include Melanie Paxson who starred in the Disney Channel Original Movie franchise Descendants 1,2, 3., Terry McGovern who is best known as the original voice of Launchpad McQuack, the voice of Pocahontas herself, Irene Bedard, Jim Cummings who has voiced so many iconic characters including Winnie The Pooh and Tigger, Bret Iwan, the voice of Mickey Mouse, Kaitlyn Robrock, the voice of Minnie Mouse, plus many more! Ticket Prices 1-Day: Ages 12+: Saturday $15, Sunday $35 / 6 - 11:  $15 / Under 5: Free Weekend Pass: Ages 12+: Saturday $70, Sunday $30 / 6 - 11:  $30 / Under 5: Free Parking Fee: $10.00 Osceola Heritage Park is located off Hwy 192, just two miles west of the Florida Turnpike. For more info and to book tickets, click here. To keep up to date with the very latest happenings in Orlando, sign up to the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter, and follow us on our social accounts to find the best events: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Discover the best of Orlando with our daily updated news, featuring the Best Things To Do: Entertainment News, Live Music & Concerts News, Events & Festival News, Theater & The Visual Arts News, Bar, Club & Nightlife News, and Food & Drink News. For the latest events in Orlando, check out our events guides: Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Month, Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend, and FREE Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend. To feature your business with Gotta Go Orlando learn more about advertising with us, and to or list your events with us, submit your Orlando events here.

Colombian singer-songwriter Camilo has revealed the U.S. dates for his 2024 Nuestro Lugar Feliz Tour and it includes a return visit to Orlando. Colombian pop star Camilo has announced the dates for the U'S. leg of his 2024 Nuestro Lugar Feliz Tour. The tour in support of his EP Un, will see Camilo embark on a trek across the U.S., with the Nuestro Lugar Feliz Tour kicking off on Sep. 26 at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, CA. Throughout the rest of the month and into October, Camilo will perform in major cities including Houston, New York, Miami, and here in Orlando, with the singer taking to the stage at downtown's Kia Center on Sunday, October 20. His wife, Montaner has performed with Camilo on all his tours so far, so there’s a good chance she will join him for these tour dates too! Tickets are on sale now. Camilo is known for his infectious blend of pop, reggaeton, and urban rhythms. Camilo first gained recognition as a songwriter, penning hits for artists like Becky G, Prince Royce, and Bad Bunny before launching his own solo career. With his distinctive voice, charismatic stage presence, and catchy melodies, Camilo quickly captivated audiences worldwide. His music often explores themes of love, self-discovery, and cultural identity, resonating with listeners of all backgrounds In September 2022, Camilo performed at the Kia Center as part of his highly anticipated De Adentro Pa Afuera Tour. The tour showcased his dynamic live performances and featured tracks from his acclaimed albums, including "Por Primera Vez" and "Mis Manos." Camilo's unique blend of genres and heartfelt lyrics have earned him widespread acclaim and a dedicated fan base. With hits like "Tutu," "Vida de Rico," and "Ropa Cara," he has solidified his status as one of Latin music's most exciting and versatile talents. For the latest concert announcements, presale codes and more be sure to check out our latest live music and concert news, and for all the latest entertainment news click here. To keep up to date with the very latest happenings in Orlando, sign up to the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter, and follow us on our social accounts to find the best events: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Discover the best of Orlando with our daily updated news, featuring the Best Things To Do: Entertainment News, Live Music & Concerts News, Events & Festival News, Theater & The Visual Arts News, Bar, Club & Nightlife News, and Food & Drink News. For the latest events in Orlando, check out our events guides: Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Month, Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend, and FREE Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend. To feature your business with Gotta Go Orlando learn more about advertising with us, and to or list your events with us, submit your Orlando events here.

March brings two new shows to Orlando Family Stage that are perfect for the kids! Two new productions are coming to Orlando Family Stage in March, including a brand-new commission, Allie Kazan and the Magic Mansion (March 4 – 31, 2024), an original show that Orlando FamilyStage are excited to share with audiences. Also coning to Orlando Family Stage is Theatre for the Very Young, which continues with Yo, Ho, Ho! Let’s Go! (March 2 – 24, 2024), created specifically for 1 to 5-year-olds, this show is an interactive, multi-sensory, developmentally accessible experience that encourages caregiver interaction and creative play. Orlando Family Stage is Florida's only professional theatre for young audiences serving nearly 100,000 children and families each year. Their mission is to enlighten, entertain, and enrich children and adults by producing theatre of exceptional quality. Housed in a three-theatre complex in Loch Haven Park, Orlando Family Stage is also home to the University of Central Florida's MFA in Theatre for Young Audiences graduate program. Allie Kazan and the Magic Mansion Mar 4 - Mar 31 Five are called but only one can win – let the mystery unravel and the magic begin! In this brand-new original musical commissioned by Orlando Family Stage and Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, you will be kept wondering what’s real and what’s magic as the teen finalists of the Young Masters of Magic competition face off for the prized Golden Key. Who will win Marvellini’s prized possession that unlocks the secrets to the master magician’s greatest illusions? Allie Kazan is hoping it is her, but traps and tricks are around every corner in this Scooby Doo-style musical mystery! Created by the team behind the hit show The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical, Jahnna Beecham and Malcolm Hillgartner. Yo, Ho, Ho! Let’s Go! Theatre for the Very Young continues with Yo, Ho, Ho! Let’s Go! (March 2 – 24, 2024), written by Jennifer Adams-Carrasquillo, a 30-minute adventure with a pirate on the high seas following a treasure map. Parrots, crabs, mermaids, and more join the fun! Theatre for the Very Young at Orlando Family Stage is created specifically for 1 to 5-year-olds and is an interactive, multi-sensory, developmentally accessible experience that encourages caregiver interaction and creative play. For more details and to book tickets, click here. To keep up to date with the very latest happenings in Orlando, sign up to the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter, and follow us on our social accounts to find the best events: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Discover the best of Orlando with our daily updated news, featuring the Best Things To Do: Entertainment News, Live Music & Concerts News, Events & Festival News, Theater & The Visual Arts News, Bar, Club & Nightlife News, and Food & Drink News. For the latest events in Orlando, check out our events guides: Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Month, Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend, and FREE Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend. To feature your business with Gotta Go Orlando learn more about advertising with us, and to or list your events with us, submit your Orlando events here.

The roar of the engines returns to St. Pete as The NTT INDYCAR SERIES championship begins the season at the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. One of the premier events in St. Pete/Clearwater, the Firestone Grand Prix races through the streets of downtown St. Pete as IndyCar's season opening event. This year, the 20th annual Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg returns to St Pete from Mar 8, 2024 – Mar 10, 2024, Taking place on the waterfront street course in downtown St. Petersburg, the Firestone Grand Prix is among the most respected motorsports events in North America and features a week-long festival-like atmosphere that includes the fastest racing series on the planet, celebrity athletes, live entertainment and interactive activities. The 2024 festivities set for March 8-10 mark the 20th annual running of the event in downtown St. Petersburg. The weekend will be headlined by the NTT INDYCAR SERIES’ season-opening race for the 14th time and will also feature high-speed, open-wheel competition from INDY NXT by Firestone, USF Pro 2000 Presented by Continental Tire and USF2000 Presented by Continental Tire development series. New in 2024, exciting sports car action from IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge joins the weekend schedule. Spectator highlights include Speed Zone, IndyCar Series Fan Village, Beer Garden, Driver Autograph Sessions, plus interactive games & exhibits. Incorporating the streets of downtown St Petersburg Florida, this race weekend brings hundreds of thousands of people to downtown St. Pete. The 2023 Firestone Grand Prix Of St Petersburg frequently hits speeds in excess of 170 mph as the circuit twists through the streets of downtown St. Petersburg, circling the Duke Energy Center, the world famous Dali Museum and then onto a section of runway of Albert Whitted Airport, all while overlooking the stunning city waterfront. Races The NTT INDYCAR SERIES is the premier open-wheel racing series in North America. It offers one of the most diverse and challenging schedules in motorsports with races held on ovals, permanent road courses and temporary street courses. INDY NXT by Firestone features a new generation of global racing talent, competing vigorously for podiums and the opportunity to join the elite ranks of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. The USF Pro Championships Presented By Continental Tire features some of the best up-and-coming competitors as they vie to reach the pinnacle of open-wheel racing in America, the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. USF Pro Championships is comprised of three race series including: USF Pro 2000 Presented by Continental Tire, USF2000 Presented by Continental Tire and USF Juniors Presented by Continental Tire. USF Pro 2000 and USF2000 will compete in St. Pete in 2024. The IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge features Le Mans Prototype (LMP3) and Grand Touring 4 (GT4) race cars in 45-minute sprint races with one driver per car. The series class names are LMP3 and GSX, respectively. To be eligible to drive in either class, all drivers must have an FIA Driver Categorization of either Bronze or Silver. Tickets are available now at gpstpete.com. Entertainment Taking place on the waterfront street course in downtown St. Petersburg, the Firestone  Grand Prix of St. Petersburg is among the most respected motorsports events in North America and features a week-long festival-like atmosphere that includes the fastest racing series on the planet, celebrity athletes, live entertainment and interactive activities. Speed Zone IndyCar Series Fan Village Beer Gardens Driver Autograph Sessions Interactive games & exhibits For more information, visit gpstpete.com. To keep up to date with the very latest happenings in Orlando, sign up to the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter, and follow us on our social accounts to find the best events: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Discover the best of Orlando with our daily updated news, featuring the Best Things To Do: Entertainment News, Live Music & Concerts News, Events & Festival News, Theater & The Visual Arts News, Bar, Club & Nightlife News, and Food & Drink News. For the latest events in Orlando, check out our events guides: Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Month, Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend, and FREE Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend. To feature your business with Gotta Go Orlando learn more about advertising with us, and to or list your events with us, submit your Orlando events here.

Orange County Library offers Free Admission to local arts and culture venues through Local Wanderer Program. Did you know that Orange County residents can receive free admission to many of the areas top attractions and experiences? Well, thanks to Orange County Library System, free admission is available to museums, concerts, sporting events and more with Local Wanderer, Orange County Library System’s “culture pass” program. With just your library card, free admission to some of the best local arts and culture venues is only a click away! Organizations taking part include Art & History Museums of Maitland, Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Orlando Museum of Art, and more! Passes are available upon request to all OCLS adult cardholders with a regular, property owner, reciprocal borrower or fee card in good standing. Passes are provided by participating organizations and can be checked out using your Orange County Library System card number and PIN. All passes are one-time use, and many passes are good for two weeks, giving you the flexibility of deciding when best to redeem them. Here is all the participating organizations: Orlando Ballet Art & History Museums of Maitland Audubon Center for Birds of Prey Central Florida Community Arts Holocaust Memorial Resource & Education Center of Central Florida Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts Orange County Regional History Center Mennello Museum of American Art Orlando Museum of Art Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra Orlando Family Stage For more information about pass use and restrictions, contact Orange County Library System at 407-835-7323. To keep up to date with the very latest happenings in Orlando, sign up to the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter, and follow us on our social accounts to find the best events: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Discover the best of Orlando with our daily updated news, featuring the Best Things To Do: Entertainment News, Live Music & Concerts News, Events & Festival News, Theater & The Visual Arts News, Bar, Club & Nightlife News, and Food & Drink News. For the latest events in Orlando, check out our events guides: Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Month, Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend, and FREE Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend. To feature your business with Gotta Go Orlando learn more about advertising with us, and to or list your events with us, submit your Orlando events here.

Downtown Orlando has a new option for your lunch or dinner plans, with The Drake opening at 361 N. Rosalind Ave. For years, Heberto and Rona Segura have operated their popular food truck, Duck & Drake Kitchen, on Edgewater Drive, and now the couple have joined partners Roger and Theresa Owens to open a brick-and-mortar restaurant on North Rosalind. Now, following a soft opening period, The Drake Kitchen + Bar has now officially opened in Downtown Orlando, with the restaurant located on the first floor of the Radius Apartments at 361 N. Rosalind Ave, Suite 1. Described as offering cuisine that is humble, innovative and personal, The Drake Kitchen + Bar features internationally inspired dishes that will evolve throughout the year according to the seasons. The restaurant features local, regional ingredients produced with sustainable practices whenever possible. Many of the ingredient in their plates come directly from the producers and crafters in the local area. The Drake is open Tuesday through Saturday 11 am - 10 pm. Call 407 776 3333 to make a reservation. Walk-ins accepted!. To keep up to date with the very latest happenings in Orlando, sign up to the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter, and follow us on our social accounts to find the best events: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Discover the best of Orlando with our daily updated news, featuring the Best Things To Do: Entertainment News, Live Music & Concerts News, Events & Festival News, Theater & The Visual Arts News, Bar, Club & Nightlife News, and Food & Drink News. For the latest events in Orlando, check out our events guides: Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Month, Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend, and FREE Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend. To feature your business with Gotta Go Orlando learn more about advertising with us, and to or list your events with us, submit your Orlando events here.

Did someone say "Road Trip!!" Once you've experienced the theme parks, big cities and beaches, try one or all of these off-the-beaten-path, historical, cultural, outdoorsy, and just plain weird roadside attractions. Central Florida is home to many quirky, strange, and nostalgic roadside attractions that are a must-see, you can experience everything from from shrunken heads, to the world's largest alligator and everything in between. It's a safe bet that Florida's the only place where you can look down the throat of a 13-foot alligator, stare up at a life-sized Tyrannosaurus Rex and watch live mermaids in an underwater show. It's this kind of quirkiness and wonders, natural and manmade, that gives Florida roadside attractions an unrivaled character. Jump in the car and head out on the open road on a road-trip to adventure! Monument of States 300 E. Monument Ave. Kissimmee Dedicated in 1943, downtown Kissimmee’s Monument of States is a 40-foot-tall pyramid constructed of various stones, fossils and other rocky materials gathered from all 50 states and more than 20 countries. During the early days of WWII, Dr. Charles Bressler-Pettis wrote letters to every governor and to president Franklin D. Roosevelt to request contributions of local rocks. The donations arrived in a variety of formats, including native granite, quartz, boulders, fossils, blocks from old buildings and even a human skull. Reptile World Serpentarium 5705 East Irlo Bronson Hwy, St Cloud Reptile World is more than snake displays. It is a working farm providing venom for use worldwide in medicine and herpetological research. There is hundreds of venomous snakes just waiting to be "milked" for their valuable venom. Reptile World Serpentarium ships this precious commodity worldwide for use in medical and herpetological research. The regular "milking" of these dangerous snakes is done in public and makes Reptile World Serpentarium more than just another snake house. Gatorland 14501 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando Get ready for down-home family fun at “The Alligator Capital of the World” –  Gatorland!  There isn’t a better place to see alligators and crocodiles of all sizes, from babies, also known as grunts, to the 14-foot monsters that call our Breeding Marsh home. We even have the largest collection of extremely rare white leucistic alligators.  But, Gatorland is more than just a gator park!  Our free-flight aviary, petting zoo, one-of-a-kind animal shows, thrilling Screamin’ Gator Zip Line and new Stompin’ Gator Off-Road Adventure ensure your day will be chock-full of fun, smiles, and good ole fashioned fun! Cow Camp 14248 Camp Mack Road, Lake Wales Travel back in time to 1876 as you meander down the trail at at Lake Kissimmee State Park to the Cow Camp. You'll find a Florida cow hunter in a frontier camp nestled under a picturesque oak hammock within the route of the cattle drive. The cow hunter will be cooking, making coffee, tending to the cattle, or just resting up until he has caught the cows in the area and moves to the next camp. Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing 13700 SW 16th Ave., Ocala The Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing and International Drag Racing Hall of Fame opened in 1976, it chronicles the history of the sport of drag racing. Some 90 racing cars can be seen in the Drag Race building and an additional 50 vehicles are in the Antique Car building. Many of the Garlits "Swamp Rat" cars are here, but their is an accumulation of cars and memorabilia from other top names in the sport. The iconic cars of Dean Moon, the Mooneyes gas dragster and the Moonbeam sports car are on display. Jungle Adventures, A Real Florida Animal Park 13700 SW 16th Ave., Ocala Jungle Adventures, a Real Florida Animal Park, is the natural habitat jungle home of the famous 200-foot-long roadside wonder, Swampy, the world’s largest alligator, and a popular photo opportunity for everyone. Jungle Adventures is located between Orlando and the Space Coast, here you will experience wildlife encounters with rare Florida panther, primates, gray wolves, various deer, tropical birds, reptiles and mammals. A Jungle Swamp Cruise is on a beautiful private river that is inhabited by more than 200 alligators! While cruising, you'll be surrounded by natural Florida flora and fauna that provide many unique photo opportunities. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park 6131 Commercial Way, Weeki Wachee Step back in time at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park and enjoy the classic mermaid show, but remember this quintessential Old Florida site is also home to the deepest freshwater cave system in the country and abundant protected wildlife. Perhaps the best-known symbol of the yesteryear of Florida tourism, Weeki Wachee’s iconic mermaids perform in pure aquamarine water that flows from a first-magnitude spring. Kids and adults alike can splash and play against a background of stunning blues and greens, and a kayak trip down the spring run offers an escape into the quiet of nature. In 2007, underwater explorers discovered new passages in the spring’s cave system and confirmed Weeki Wachee as the deepest known freshwater cave system in the United States, marking another unique feature of this classic Florida destination. Spook Hill Lake Wales Spook Hill is a gravity hill, an optical illusion in Lake Wales. The mystery of Spook Hill has fascinated generations. Cars parked at the bottom of the hill will defy gravity and seemingly roll uphill. This is a public road, so visit anytime. The Hill in Lake Wales, is a magnetic hill or “gravity hill.” Gravity hills can be found all over the world, and continue to spur folklore and curiosity as cars appear to roll up hill when placed in neutral. Not only is it one of the country’s oldest known gravity hills, it is also the only known magnetic hill in the state of Florida. In April of 2019, Spook Hill was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Dinosaur World 5145 Harvey Tew Road, Plant City Go back in time - see over 200 life size dinosaurs at Dinosaur World! Dig for fossils and keep three at the Fossil Dig. Pan for real minerals and gems at the Dino Gem Excavation and crack your own geode with the Geode Cracker. Learn what it's like to be a Paleontologist at the Exploration Cave Show and later test your knowledge at the Triviasaurus Rex Game Show. Put your paleontology fieldwork knowledge to the test at the Boneyard and uncover a life size stegosaurus skeleton from under the sand. At the Touch-and-Tell guess the dinosaur inside a hole without sight. Visit Mammoths: Giants of the Ice Age and see woolly mammoths as they appeared during their time. Be sure to make a stop at the Florida Fossil Museum and learn about fossils native to the area, and stop at the Prehistoric Museum. Here you will find real artifacts and an animatronic dinosaur display at the end of the museum. Play on the dinosaur themed playground - and don't forget your picnic lunch to Dine with the Dinos. Sunken Gardens 1825 4th St N, St. Petersburg Just outside the heart of downtown St. Petersburg lies Sunken Gardens, a subtropical oasis perfect for your family’s next outing. One of Florida’s original roadside attractions, this more than 100-year-old garden is home to some of the oldest and most beautiful tropical plants in the state. Officially opened to the public in 1936, Sunken Gardens offers a lush and secluded haven in the midst of city life. Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp 1112 Stevens St, Cassadaga 45 minutes from Orlando is the tiny town of Cassadaga, home to the largest Spiritualist community in the Southern United States: the Southern Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp. Established as a Spiritualist community in 1894, the Southern Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp Meeting Association consists of approximately 58 acres with 80 residences. Spiritualism is defined as science, philosophy and religion based on the continuity of life. Those who reside here have chosen to share in a community of like-minded people where they can live, worship and work in harmony with their beliefs. Many of the Camp’s residents are mediums who offer counseling from their homes and offices. Designated a Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places in 1992, Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp is the oldest active religious community in the Southeastern United States. Citrus Tower 141 S. Highway 27, Clermont The Citrus Tower is a prominent landmark located in Clermont, Florida. Standing at 226 feet, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including miles of picturesque Lakes, including the beautiful Lake Minneola. The tower itself is an iconic structure with a distinctive, mid-20th-century design, characterized by its tall spire and observation deck. Spongeorama Sponge Factory 510 Dodecanese Blvd., Tarpon Springs A 2 hr 30 min drive from Orlando is Spongeorama’s Sponge Factory in beautiful Tarpon Springs. Discover gifts, arts, shopping, jewelry, sponges, loofah, bath & body, faux painting and more… Founded in 1968, Spongeorama’s sponge factory boast the world's largest selection of natural sea sponges. Whimzeyland 1206 3rd St N, Safety Harbor A 2 hour road trip from Orlando is one of the most excentric, colorful places you will ever visit! WhimzeyLand is and has been a work in progress for over 20 years. It is a landmark for those who like to seek out unusual places. Their is a ton of different materials decorating the house: plexiglas sculptures, paintings, bottle trees, recycled material sculptures, and, of course, bowling balls, with the house known a the bowling ball house! Solomon's Castle 4533 Solomon Rd, Ona A 2 hr, 30 min drive from Orlando will find you at Solomon's Castle. Hidden in the lush Florida woodlands is one man's dream of paradise. A visit to Solomon's Castle may be the most unique experience of your life. The home, galleries and workshop of internationally renowned artist Howard Solomon are open to the public. Decorated with more than 80 interpretive stained-glass windows and countless metal sculptures, the castle is a daylong delight. Fountain of Youth 11 Magnolia Ave., St. Augustine Visit the Fountain of Youth in St. Augustine, where you can delve into history, explore scenic grounds – and maybe capture eternal youth. The Fountain of Youth in St. Augustine is legendary, known as the place where Ponce De Leon discovered the healing waters that magically maintain your youthful appearance. Drink from the magical spring’s waters, plus explore many exhibits and historical attractions at the 15-acre Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. The park is home to a Discovery Globe, Planetarium, Timucua Indian Exhibit, Spanish cannons, and Native Christian Burial Ground Exhibit. Potter’s Wax Museum 31 Orange St., St. Augustine The characters range from musicians and artists to presidents and kings, from Cleopatra to Princess Diana, and much more. At Potter's Wax Museum, visitors can meet Queen Victoria, Austin Powers, William Shakespeare, and Harry Potter all in the same spot. This unique attraction was founded more than 70 years ago when George L. Potter began the business in 1949. He employed some of the finest talents in the world to make his wax figures, after meticulously researching every aspect of the person being depicted, right down to each freckle on the skin and hair on the head. The costumes of the original figures were created by B.J. Simmons and Nathan's, Ltd., the finest costumers of their day, and certified for historical accuracy by the British Historical Society. St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park 999 Anastasia Blvd, St. Augustine The Alligator Farm Zoological Park features a variety of animal species including hundreds of native alligators. Exhibits include lemurs, Komodo dragons, toucans, and a sloth exhibit. The park is the only place in the world to see all 24 species of crocodilians in one place. The Alligator Farm offers several wildlife shows and demonstrations every day for lots of family fun. The property offers two intriguing zip lines and aerial adventure courses. And, for those who dare, Crocodile Crossing's Python Challenge offers a 40-foot controlled free fall adventure. Butterfly World 3600 W. Sample Road, Coconut Creek If you take a 3 hour drive from Orlando you can experience Butterfly World, where Discovery and Wonder take Flight at the World’s Largest Butterfly and Bird Park! It features “open-air” aviaries with a breath-taking display of 20,000 exotic butterflies and tropical birds from all around the world. Explore and interact with rare and delicate butterflies in a South Florida Tropical Rain Forest. Discover metamorphosis in our Research Facility, where you will see all stages of the butterfly life cycle in a display that changes daily. Other highlights include Vine Maze, Butterfly Museum and Insectarium, Live Bug Zoo, Lorikeet Encounter where you can hand-feed small parrots, Swinging Suspension Bridge, Botanical Gardens, Gift and Plant Shop, Outdoor Cafés and more! This is the perfect adventure for the whole family! To keep up to date with the very latest happenings in Orlando, sign up to the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter, and follow us on our social accounts to find the best events: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Discover the best of Orlando with our daily updated news, featuring the Best Things To Do: Entertainment News, Live Music & Concerts News, Events & Festival News, Theater & The Visual Arts News, Bar, Club & Nightlife News, and Food & Drink News. 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