Orlando will always be known for its theme parks, but there's SO MUCH more to do in and around Orlando, Florida BESIDES theme parks and this video shows you the 5 best things to do. They include an airboat ride to go alligator spotting - if you're lucky you'll see some birds too! I went to Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures where there was even a butterfly house and turtles.
Another great spot is Lake Nona. Not only is the lake beautiful - and handy for the airport if you're looking for something to do before your flight - but the Canvass Restaurant has to win a prize for being the restaurant with the best view ever over the lake. And their brunch is pretty awesome too.
The Orlando Eye (like the London Eye big wheel but in Orlando) is in Icon Park and is good fun, with great views of some non theme park rides, including the scary Orlando Starflyer.
Perhaps my favourite thing to do however is go to WEKIWA SPRINGS STATE PARK! This was an amazing find. Not only are its natural cool springs a wonderful spot to cool off in on a hot day, but there are also some awesome hiking trails.
And lastly: food. The theme parks might not have the best food, but Orlando itself has some fantastic restaurants where you can eat really well. My best pick is the Helena Modern Riviera near the Orlando Eye in Icon Parrk. Their food is exceptional. All you really need to order is the charcuterie platter (which comes with cheese/meats/fruit etc.) and one will be enough for two people for dinner. No joke!!