Charlotte B

Among the perks of visiting (or living in) Orlando is the Florida sunshine, and there is an abundance of options for enjoying it while dining waterfront.

Whether you are out on the boat and looking for a restaurant at which to dock, or you just want a waterfront meal without the long drive to the coast, you can relax lakeside at these Central Florida restaurants.

In the meantime, keep up with what's going on in Orlando with kids via Mommy Poppins' weekly newsletter; and browse our full events calendar here.

Take a break from Orlando theme parks with a quick getaway to one of the many Florida beaches near Orlando. Whether you want to take in the sunrise and coastal breeze on the Atlantic side or enjoy the calm waters and picturesque sunsets on the Gulf, Orlando is centrally located, making it an easy drive to either coast.

We've rounded up our favorite Florida beaches within a few hours’ drive of Orlando, so you can pack up your beach gear for a weekend getaway with the kids, or even just a day trip. For those days when a shorter drive is better, consider a swim at these nearby Orlando beaches attached to Florida's natural springs or at an inflatable water park.

Character dining is a unique and magical experience to include on your next Orlando vacation. At these special dining experiences, kids (and kids at heart) can meet and greet some of their favorite television or movie characters. Many character meals in Orlando have reopened for guests, with modifications, of course.  We’ve rounded up a list of character dining options currently open in Orlando.

Planning a Disney vacation this summer?  Here’s what it’s like to visit Disney since parks have reopened.  Be sure to also check out our list of the Best Orlando Hotels for Families and Things To Do in Orlando Besides the Theme Parks.