Orlando, the City Beautiful, might be the theme park capital of the world but it is setting its sights on cultural excellence.
Many people flock to the City Beautiful, Orlando, for the uber popular theme park experiences. From the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to Mickey’s Pixie Dusted lands, Orlando is a popular destination for both domestic and international travel. While these experiences are thrilling, the City is looking to be more, specifically a world renowned cultural destination.
With Orlando bringing in so many visitors on an annual basis, the city understands that people are looking for experiences beyond that the theme park. From food to culture, the landscape for destination travel is constantly evolves. Orlando looks to be part of that evolution.
For many people, food experiences drive travel decisions. While Orlando may not be home to Michelin Star restaurants, the area does boast numerous celebrity chef restaurants. For example, Disney Springs has numerous restaurants from world-renowned chefs.
With the recent opening of Jose Andres’ Jaleo, Disney Springs can be on par with other larger cities. In that dining destination, there are restaurants from James Beard Award winners, Michelin Star chefs and world class sommeliers. From Tony Mantuano’s Terralina Crafted Italian to Wolfgang Puck’s redesigned restaurant, it would take a week to indulge in all the tasty offerings.
Terralina Crafted Italian, photo by Cristine Struble
Beyond the tourist district, other local chefs are bringing their best to the culinary scene. Rusty Spoon, Kathleen Blake’s restaurant, is a wonderful example of creativity blended with locally sourced ingredients. Her thoughtful, sometimes playful menu, is on par with any internationally award winning chef.
While food satisfies, the cultural experience is expanding beyond the plate. Dr. Phillips Center, located in the downtown district, looks to put Orlando on the musical map. The new expansion of Steinmetz Hall will make this arts district internationally recognized.
As Steinmetz Hall takes shape next to Dr. Phillips Center, the care and detail put into this undertaking was immense. Choosing to make this hall one of the world’s most acoustically perfect concert halls will draw internationally recognized performers to the City Beautiful. Steinmetz Hall will be on par with legendary locales like Carnegie Hall in New York City.
Additionally, the space will include The Green Room. This intimate space will offer an “unplugged” vibe for all artists. These one-of-a-kind performances can showcase all styles from jazz, America’s original art form, to modern artists.
Overall, the Dr. Phillips Center expansion ensures that Orlando becomes a cultural destination, not just a pop culture, thrill destination.
Next time you plan a trip to Orlando, consider a trip beyond the tourist corridor. Those experiences could be as impactful as any immersive theme park experience.