Museums and Arts

Description:

It began with a group of artists in the 1920s displaying their work. Today, it's known as one of the best museums in the South. This local heavyweight handles some of the most prestigious traveling exhibits in the nation. The museum, founded in 1924, hosts special exhibits throughout the year, but even if you miss one, it's worth a stop to see its rotating permanent collection of 19th- and 20th-century American art, pre-Columbian art dating from 1200 B.C. to A.D. 1500, and African art. Allow 2 to 3 hours.

This cultural area plays host to a selection of events including the Festival of Trees, Antiques Show and Sale, Orlando International Fringe Festival, PlayFest, Pet Fair and VegFest.

Description:

Located in Thornton Park, this inn near scenic Lake Eola is another option if you want to stay near downtown. Its four buildings date back to the early 1900s. All units (studios to suites) include private bathrooms and entrances; some have garden tubs, balconies, kitchenettes, and four-poster beds. A few of the nicer options include the Washington Suite, which sports a four-poster bed and a Jacuzzi, and the romantic Carriage Suite, which has a four-poster bed and antique claw-foot tub. The two-bedroom, two-bathroom Keylime Cottage ($169) sleeps four and has a full kitchen.

Description:

Inside, a plethora of works is on display by folk artist Earl Cunningham. Outside, the lawn areas offers gorgeous views and majestic trees. This museum is housed in an Orlando mansion, once a private residence, converted in 1998 to show off Cunningham'swork. His work is considered "primitive genius." Cunningham, who was a St. Augustine native, attempted to capture the haunting landscapes of the Sunshine State. The Everglades proved a favorite subject. The museum's permanent 50-piece Cunningham collection was a bequest to the City of Orlando by collectors Marilyn and Michael Mennello. In addition to showing Cunningham's work, the museum plans a series of rotating exhibits. Call ahead for admission price and other details.

Description:

Located in Thornton Park, this inn near scenic Lake Eola is another option if you want to stay near downtown. Its four buildings date back to the early 1900s. All units (studios to suites) include private bathrooms and entrances; some have garden tubs, balconies, kitchenettes, and four-poster beds. A few of the nicer options include the Washington Suite, which sports a four-poster bed and a Jacuzzi, and the romantic Carriage Suite, which has a four-poster bed and antique claw-foot tub. The two-bedroom, two-bathroom Keylime Cottage ($169) sleeps four and has a full kitchen.

Description:

The Orlando Science Center is four floors of fascinating fun. The innovative center, the largest of its kind in the Southeast, provides 10 exhibit halls that allow visitors to explore everything from Florida swamps to the arid plains of Mars to the human body. One of the big attractions is the Dr. Phillips CineDome, a 310-seat theater that presents large-format films, planetarium shows, and laser-light extravaganzas. Just a small sampling of what you can expect includes exhibits such as KidsTown, where little folks wander in exhibits representing a miniature version of the big world around them. In one section, there's a pint-size community that includes a construction site, park, and wellness center. Dr. Dare's Laboratory is a "classroom of tomorrow" that includes interactive computer displays, and NatureWorks uses replicated Florida ecosystems to teach kids about the environment. Dino Digs, TechW.orks, Xperience Factory, and Cool Science are some of the other exhibits that await you. Look for the Super Service Center, a Construction Site just for kids, and the Kids Kitchen all coming soon. Allow 3 to 4 hours, more if you have an inquiring mind

Description:

The trendy decor with warm hues and shimmering lights adds to the unique dining experience at this upscale restaurant. The menu features an innovative mix of American cuisine with higlights, such as Seared Tuna, Wood-grilled meats and fish dishes. The happy hour definitely brings a smile to every diner's face as the rates are highly discounted. Participate in the 'Disco brunch' that's held every third Sunday of the month, where you can groove to the music and have an enormous platter to dine on.

Description:

This full-time, not-for-profit alternative cinema features first-run, first-rate independent films in a 250-seat theater outfitted with a 33-foot screen. The Enzian also hosts a variety of special events, including March's 10-day run of the Florida Film Festival.