Business Travel to Orlando: Around the corner from the Convention Center

Description:

The Capital Grille wants to be "your place." The spot you most want to come to, whether for a special occasion or just the perfect dinner out. They strive to make every occasion special. They serve dry-aged steaks that have earned high praise from the nation's toughest food critics, and have an award-winning wine list. Mouth-watering appetizers, fresh seafood, chops. Irresistible desserts. They match the food with out-of-this-world service and a comfortable, relaxed ambiance that's a world away from the routine.

Description:

Taverna Opa is the place for breaking plates, dodging confetti-style napkins and sampling tasty dishes like the smash-it-yourself garbanzo beans appetizer. Just as impressive: the garlic-marinated chicken kabobs and Santorini shrimp. Better yet, the energy of this eatery will have you dancing in your seat or — for the more adventurous — on the table. Afterward, hit B.B. King's Blues Club for funky jazz, just a few steps away.

Our Local Expert Says:

Sleek and sophisticated, The Oceanaire provides the perfect setting to enjoy the freshest seafood flown in daily from around the world.

Description:

From the moment you enter the Oceanaire on International Drive you feel a sense of place and time akin to a classic 1930s ocean liner. No detail is left to chance. From cocktails in the lounge, to the raw oyster bar, to a main course of ultra-fresh fish, a rendezvous at the Oceanaire is the perfect occasion to indulge your unfettered senses. The seafood is flown in daily from around the world. They source only top-of-the-catch fish from the world's most reputable suppliers. Since the menu is based entirely on market availability, selections change by the day - in some cases, even by the hour. Choose your fancy prepared to your liking: simply grilled or broiled, sauteed, steamed or even fried. Served with the famous fresh-baked sourdough bread, and offered with a wine list as deep as the sea, it's no wonder people come here to be spoiled.

Description:

After creating waves in Cincinatti, this nightclub has been doing the same in Orlando. A regular haunt for locals since its inception, it's the tunes played on the two centerstage pianos that keep guests highly entertained. A 'Showtime' special is announced every hour, in which employees and guests alike dance to the tunes of popular television shows and commercial jingles. Take your pick from the very innovative drinks menu - while the Sour Apple Martini will make you "pucker up and howl", the Electric Lemonade is "the most ELECTRIFYING cocktail in nightlife entertainment". So come on down and get ready to howl!

Description:

Cool cats can flock to the newest and coolest (literally) club on I-Drive, ICEBAR, which just opened October '08. Designers took 50 tons of solid ice and transformed it into a sparkling bar that's sure to become Orlando's newest hot spot… errrr, cold spot. Furniture is draped with fur throws and designer thermal capes are provided to keep you cozy in these 27 degree temperatures. Of course, frosty libations are the recommended cocktail.

Our Local Expert Says:

The combination of delicious food with the artistic atmosphere makes Cafe Tu Tu Tango a favorite amongst tourist and locals alike.

Description:

Cafe Tu Tu Tango is a definite must if you are looking for delicious cuisine and a lively atmosphere. From the moment you pull up you will notice that this is no ordinary restaurant. The restaurant is set in a Mediterranean artist' loft and features artist stations scattered throughout the dinning room. So do not be surprised when you see an artist working with clay or painting while you enjoy your tapas. The menu offers an assorted variety of plates intended to be shared including oriental steak skewers, stir-fried shrimp and roasted pears on pecan crisps. The staff is knowledge about the food and are happy to make suggestions based on your taste buds. Only downfall comes in the form of a wait to get a table, so make a reservation if you can through OpenTable.com or call 407-248-2222. If you do get stuck with a wait head over to the bar for one of their signature drinks.

Our Local Expert Says:

Awesome animal shows and roller coasters

Description:

One of the first theme parks to open in Orlando, SeaWorld has been operating here for more than 30 years. The 200 acres of attractions and animal shows make this a perennial favorite with Florida visitors. Many new attractions and rides have been added to the original fun including a laser-fireworks-water extravaganza and high-tech thrill rides.

Description:

JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes is located in Orlando, Florida within one mile of SeaWorld. The hotel offers a number of family-friendly amenities, including a babysitting service, game room and in-room video games. Those with families rave about the enormous pool and its lazy river, while others note the quality golfing available just steps from the hotel. The sushi at the Lobby Lounge particularly impresses guests, though some lament that it is not available later in the evening. Guests warn, however, that the pool area is open to non-customers and often becomes crowded. Others, especially those with families, dislike that the hotel allows drinking in the pool.

Description:

Just off the International Drive, lies the 500-acre Grande Lakes Orlando, at the Florida Everglades. The resort comprises of two magnificent hotels, the JW Marriott and the Ritz-Carlton. Panoramic lake views stretch before the rooms, each decorated with Italian furniture and topped with the group's quality amenities. Fine dining comes in the form of a poolside restaurant and a steakhouse, among others. Health nuts can partake of the offerings at the Café after a workout at the 40,000 square foot spa.

Description:

The five mallards that march into a lobby fountain every morning at 11am and then back out at 5pm, accompanied by John Philip Sousa's King Cotton March, are just part of the appeal of this luxury hotel, famous for its friendly (and not stuffy) service. Primarily a business and convention destination, the Peabody also appeals to adults looking for a classy hotel that provides top-of-the-line service, amenities, and atmosphere. If your budget allows the splurge, you won't be disappointed. Rooms sleep up to five and are tastefully decorated and very well appointed. Those on the west side (sixth floor and higher) offer a distant view of Disney and its fireworks displays. Tip: Your best chance at getting bargain rates is in July and August; that's when the convention trade falls flat, and occupancy drops to as little as 20%. Note: At press time, a long awaited expansion was starting to take shape as a second tower (with 750 guest rooms, a full service spa, and grotto-style pool) was in the midst of construction.

Facilities: 3 restaurants; deli; 3 lounges; outdoor heated pool; kids' pool; 4 lighted tennis courts, instruction available (fee); fitness center; spa; Jacuzzi; game room; concierge; guest-services desk; shuttle to Disney and other parks for a fee; business center; shopping arcade; 24-hr. room service; valet; concierge-level rooms

Description:

Located near Disney parks and the Orange County Convention Center, this eight-storey, 244-unit hotel proves popular with business travelers and families alike. Each suite boasts a bedroom and bath, and a living area complete with microwave, small refrigerator and coffeemaker. Guests love the atrium common area, which features a plethora of tropical plants surrounding a waterfall and where a complimentary breakfast is served every morning. The casual, Fisheye Grill serves other meals. There are also large indoor and outdoor swimming pools and whirlpools. Transportation to Disney parks is complimentary.

Our Local Expert Says:

Fabulous seasonal events like Mardi Gras, Halloween Horror Nights, and the Holiday Concert Series

Description:

The world's favorite films and film stars come to life here, and 40 amazing and amusing rides, shows and attractions await. A virtual interactive Terminator 2:3-D adventure has its own set of thrills, as does an encounter with Jaws, a trip Back to the Future, and a voyage beyond the stars in an E.T. Adventure. Special VIP tours are available by pre-arrangement.

Description:

Closet singers and aspiring stars get their chance at stardom at Universal's Rising Star, a karaoke club where you become the lead singer in a live band. Open nightly from 8pm to 2am, Rising Star is located at CityWalk, a mecca for evening excitement and sundown shenanigans. Expect a bevy of signature cocktails and gourmet snacks.