International Drive - The Most Dynamic Destination in Orlando

If you are looking for that one destination where you can experience all the good things that Orlando has to offer, look no further than International Drive. Also called I-Drive, International Drive simply has everything, from exciting theme parks and attractions to great options in shopping, dining, accommodations and nightlife.

Most visitors in Orlando are after the city’s theme park experiences, which make International Drive a must-see destination for everyone. Six of Orlando’s most famous theme parks are located here, as well as other popular attractions and venues for entertainment. International Drive is home to the following major theme parks:

• SeaWorld Orlando
• Islands of Adventure
• Discovery Cove
• Universal Studios Florida
• Wet ‘n Wild
• Aquatica SeaWorld’s Waterpark

Aside from these world-famous theme parks, International Drive also offers you other popular attractions:

Gator Golf and Adventure Park

If alligators and crocodiles are your thing, then a visit to Gator Golf and Adventure Park is a must. The park is home to Gatorzilla, the fiercest gator in Orlando. Aside from that, you can watch great shows, including gator wrestling. After spending viewing gators in action, you can relax and unwind by playing at the park’s miniature golf course.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

Get a crash course on the bizarre by viewing the museum’s very impressive collection of artifacts that range from the simply odd to the downright bizarre. Visit all 16 galleries of rate treasures and unusual relics, which will surely capture your imagination.

Fun Spot Action Park

Named by the Orlando Sentinel as one of the best budget attractions in the area, Fun Spot Action Park has been enjoyed by countless families for 10 years.

International HeliTours

If you want to see the beauty of the whole of Orlando from above, then avail of the helicopter services of International HeliTours. The company is known to provide quality and safe helicopter tours for tourists and families. Rates for the flights can go as little as USD 25.

If you haven’t had enough of seeing the historic ship from watching the movie Titanic countless times, a visit to this attraction should definitely make your day. Here you will see full-scale recreations of the famous locations of the ship such as the Promenade Deck, Veranda Café, First Class Parlor Suite and the Grand Staircase. You will know more about the ship by talking to the historians aboard, who are dressed in period costumes. The exhibit even has an "iceberg" which you can touch so you will a feel of how cold it was during the day the ship sank.

Those who prefer to do exciting activities outside the major theme parks will have an awesome time checking out International Drive’s numerous recreational amenities. Excellent golf facilities are available here for the most discriminating golfer at the Marriott’s Grande Pines Golf Club and Shingle Creek Golf Club. For those who love bowling, they can have their fill from the World Bowling Center’s 32 state-of-the-art bowling lanes, which are equipped with fully automated Brunswick Vector scoring system.

For those who love extreme sports, they can head to Vans Skate Park, which has obstacles and riding areas for beginner and advanced skaters. If you are looking for a place for sports and recreation, there is the I-Drive YMCA & Aquatic Center, which features a wellness center, facilities for floor and aqua aerobics, heated indoor pools, spinning and martial arts classes and racquetball courts. Of course, kids will never be left out from all the fun. Monkey Joe’s, an indoor playground made for sliding, jumping and playing, will definitely keep your little ones occupied.

Of course, a visit to International Drive would not be complete without sampling the city’s dining and nightlife. Orlando has practically everything when it comes to food and entertainment, which will surely satisfy any type of visitor. International Drive has many types of options when it comes to restaurant and bars. Here are some of the places that you should check out:

One of Orlando’s award-winning restaurants, Ming Court has been delighting diners with its great Chinese dishes since 1989. The restaurant has an enchanting garden setting perfect for intimate dinners or for those who want a special treat with the family. Ming Court is known for having one of the best sushi in Orlando, as well as mouth-watering selection of grilled and wok dishes. Restaurant Hospitality magazine called Ming Court as "one of the best dining experiences ever."

If you prefer great food and a laid-back atmosphere during your dinner, then head over to Bahama Breeze. The restaurant has a chill, Caribbean vibe going on, with its fresh seafood dishes and island cocktails. Feast on sumptuous dishes such as Jerk Chicken Pasta and center-cut Filet Mignon.

Those who need their caffeine fix can get their fill here at Bad Ass Coffee, which serves 100% Kona coffee, as well as refreshing gourmet drinks like milkshakes and smoothies. Breakfast is available, and you can choose from their yummy sandwiches and pastries. The store also has internet access and laptop rentals.

Universal CityWalk is one of the most popular places for dining and entertainment in Orlando. You can have fine or casual dining, go shopping, watch movies, go dancing, and a whole lot more. Universal CityWalk is for everyone, for families who want wholesome fun to couples who are looking for a romantic evening.

Fans of blues music will definitely love it here at B.B. Kings Blues Club, where you will be entertained by an 11-piece house band which plays classic blues, Motown, R&B and even classic rock. A full menu of Southern comfort food is available for serious diners and full-service bars are there for those who want to booze up.

Latino vibe is very much alive every night here at Cuba Libre. Savor delicious contemporary Cuban dishes while listening to upbeat Latin sounds and watching dancers doing the salsa. An extensive rum selection and their signature mojitos are available for those who really love their liquor.