What comes to mind when you picture Orlando, Florida? I would guess a certain Mouse and his friends? Followed by huge crowds, long lines, thundering rollercoasters and a sense of dread as you imagine your credit card bill coming through the following month? Don’t get me wrong, when it comes to theme parks, nowhere does it better than Orlando, and it’s hardly surprising that millions of thrill seekers, families, and friends head there every single year. But did you know that there’s so much more to this beautiful sun-drenched place than theme parks and rollercoasters?  

It’s true! Orlando can also offer a huge range of peaceful and even rejuvenating experiences. With its miles of breathtaking golden sands, wide open spaces, interesting flora and fauna, historical significance and diverse food scene, your next trip to Orlando might just involve a little more than Mickey Mouse! Here’s how to have a relaxing break in Orlando. 

Getting Around Without the Stress

Having a restful and relaxing break in Orlando starts by knowing how you’re going to get around. Avoiding the theme parks to avoid crowds and stressful situations is fine, but if you’re struggling to understand public transport or chasing the last bus after a day at the beach, then you’re going to feel shortchanged. If you rent a car at Orlando airport, you’ll be able to make the most of your freedom and flexibility — ideal if you have children with you. 

With your own car, you can easily spend the day exploring places like Wekiwa Springs or Mount Dora, without worrying about how you’re going to get back to your accommodation, or struggling with picnic baskets, beach bags, and toddlers at the bus stop. To keep things low-key, choose accommodation that comes with free parking and remember to travel outside of peak hours. 

Choose a Tranquil Place to Stay

Orlando is known for its high-energy resorts, themed hotels and non-stop entertainment. However, there are plenty of luxurious and relaxing hotels and resorts tucked away in peaceful areas, that are keen to help you unwind and rejuvenate during your stay. These include lakeside retreats, boutique hotels and even spa resorts that are completely dedicated to ensuring your stay is as restful as possible. Ultimately, there’s something for every kind of traveler. 

If a spa retreat is on your must-have list then you may want to check out The Waldorf Astoria Orlando, with its strong focus on wellness and views over the Bonnet Creek nature reserve, or consider a stay at the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, which boasts a world-class spa, guided wellness experiences, and lush grounds. If you want something more intimate, then you’ll find plenty of Airbnbs away from the theme park buzz in locations like Winter Park. Or if you don’t mind a touch of Disney, the town of Celebration, originally designed by Disney, offers a more tranquil, community-oriented vibe. Think pastel-coloured homes, tree-lined streets, and quiet lakeside trails. 

Explore Scenic Nature Spots

Why not immerse yourself in the city’s natural beauty? Getting in touch with nature is easy in Orlando, with its peaceful green spaces, tranquil gardens, and refreshing natural springs, you’ll quickly forget you’re just a stone’s throw away from some of the busiest theme parks in the world. Try Lake Eola Park, situated in the heart of downtown Orlando, this peaceful escape from the city buzz boasts fountains, resident swans, regular farmers markets, and plenty of lakeside strolls along the paths. Rent a pedal boat, enjoy a good book on the grass or enjoy some live music at the amphitheatre! 

Discover Art, Culture and Hidden Gems!

Looking for a cultural fix away from the crowds, Orlando has plenty to offer. With its surprisingly rich and diverse art scene, you’ll find plenty of quiet art galleries and exhibitions, charming neighbourhoods and museums all tucked away from the tourist zones. The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art is in Winter Park and is one of Orlando’s best-kept secrets. It houses the world’s most comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany (yes, the lamps!) The galleries are calm and thoughtfully curated, offering a peaceful and inspiring way to spend an afternoon. It’s the kind of museum where you can slow down, take in the detail, and appreciate beauty at your own pace.

Take a Day Trip Somewhere Serene

If you have a hire car, then you’ll have the freedom to explore beyond the main parts of the city for a day. Just an hour on the road and you’ll find peaceful towns, natural springs, and uncrowded beaches that offer the perfect contrast to Orlando’s usual hustle and bustle. Blue Spring State Park is a firm favourite, as it’s just a 45-minute drive away from the city. This park is especially magical in the cooler months (November to March), when hundreds of manatees gather in the warm spring waters. It’s a truly magical and rare sight! Or enjoy shaded walking trails, scenic picnic spots, wildlife watching and crystal-clear water ideal for swimming or splashing around with the kids. 

How to Plan a Trip to Orlando

Organizing a trip to Orlando with a focus on rest and relaxation means planning well! Here are some simple tips to help keep your break as restful as possible.

• Dress for the weather: Orlando is warm for most of the year, with high humidity and mild winters. Remember to wear breathable fabrics, comfortable walking shoes, plenty of sun protection and for cooler months pack a light jacket or cardigan for the light chill.

• Be Sun Safe: Expect high temperatures and intense sunshine throughout the year. So make sure you bring a bottle of water with you everywhere you go. A hat and sun protection such as a high facor sun cream that is reapplied throughout the day. 

• Don’t Overpack your Days: While it’s always tempting to squeeze in as much as possible into a vacation, make sure you leave time to do nothing! This means allowing time for a slow morning, a nice coffee in the morning or a snooze by the pool in the afternoon. 

Final Thoughts…

So, there you have it. If you’re heading to Orlando, try to balance out the high-energy thrills with moments of calm.