Why Was Orlando Ranked the Best U.S. City for a Staycation?
Blog Author: Jen Durben | The Funk Collection, Brokered by eXP Realty
This is no surprise to locals of the Orlando area. There are so many reasons why people call Orlando home, and truth be told, it's pretty cool to live in one of the top vacation destinations in the world. So, when we read that Orlando has been named the #1 Best Cities for a Staycation, we nodded along in agreement. WalletHub's study analyzed more than 180 U.S. Cities, looking at over 40 indicators of real lifestyle factors, including recreation, food & entertainment, and rest & relaxation. Let's take a deeper dive into what locals already know: that living in Orlando means the vacation feeling doesn't have to wait for PTO, it's embedded in everyday life.
What are the Best Recreation Activities in Orlando?
From Walt Disney World to Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld to LEGOLAND, the Orlando area is truly the hometown to the world's most recognizable theme parks. Living nearby means sneaking away for a quick weekend escape or a cheeky mid-week overnight. In addition to the parks, the accessibility to the recreation options mentioned in the article is limitless here:
- Public Golf Courses | Checking out the greens at Winter Garden's Orange County National Golf Center or one of the many resort courses like Shingle Creek Golf Club and Disney's Lake Buena Vista Golf Course is easier than ever when they are in your backyard (especially locally in Southwest Orlando).
- Biking | This one is especially beloved in SW Orlando, known for the West Orange Trail, which extends over 22 miles from Oakland through Winter Garden, Ocoee, and Apopka. For trail lovers, a weekend along the trail is a great way to get out and explore the outdoors without getting on a plane.
- Shopping | With options including outlets like Orlando International Premium Outlets and Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets or luxury shopping at the Mall at Millenia, there is no shortage of places to grab everything from clothing to gifts (or just window shop).
- Scenic Boat Tours | Known by visitors and locals alike as one of the best ways to explore the lakes and canals of Winter Park, it's a great way to spend the morning with family for a day date.
>> See how locals experience the West Orange Trail with 9 hidden gems along the trail.
Where Can Orlando Locals find Great Food, Shopping, & Entertainment?
The food scene has exploded around Orlando, and includes a wide variety of cuisines and price points, along with nearly 50 restaurants that are Michelin recognized. Along with the multitude of dining options, the local entertainment is second to none with options from museums, theaters, festivals, and so much more. Specifically noted in the study was Orlando's number of Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Shops per Capita.
- Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt | From local favorites like Kelly's Homemade Ice Cream and Twistee Treat to unique flavors of the Salt & Straw and Sampaguita, the options to keep cool in the Florida sunshine are plentiful.
- Local Food Halls | Becoming popular in Orlando food halls like The Great Southern Box Company, East End Market, Plant Street Market in Winter Garden, and the newest at Hills City Center in Minneola, the food halls of Central Florida offer so many options for foodies, including everything from casual street foods to Michelin-recognized spots.
- Theaters & Concert Halls | Performances are easy to find all around Orlando. With staples like the Dr. Phillips Center and Kia Center, there are tons of plays, musicals, and concerts to attend throughout the year.
- Festivals | From Disney's annual festivals like the popular Food and Wine Festival or Flower & Garden Festival to the local 4th of July Celebrations, Orlando Latino Fest, and Annual Central Florida Dragon Parade & Lunar New Year.
>> Find out What Locals do on a Saturday in Winter Garden, including a visit to the Plant Street Market Food Hall
Where do Locals Go for Rest & Relaxation in Orlando?
As much activity as there is throughout Orlando and Central Florida, there is plenty of Rest & Relaxation to be had. Whether it be a spa or wellness center, or the weather (or, in our case, Florida sunshine all year long), Orlando has a lot to offer for staycations. It doesn't matter if it's January or September, the ideal time to relax is now.
- Spas & Wellness Centers | Extending the staycation vibes, the options for relaxation are endless. From massage treatments to salt rooms and acupuncture, it's easy to escape to the resort spas for a luxurious experience near home, like the Grand Floridian Spa, Waldorf Astoria Spa, or the Four Seasons Spa.
- Proximity to Beaches | Not only the access to Florida beaches on the Atlantic like Cocoa Beach or the Tampa Beaches of Clearwater within 2 hours or less, but access to the waters of the Butler Chain of Lakes for on-the-water relaxation.
What Makes Orlando a Great Place to Live, Not Just Visit?
Locals truly get the best of both worlds: access to what visitors do all year long, with the bonus being able to visit these local resorts and parks on occasion (just without the hassle of travel, time, and expense). But, beyond the theme parks, there is so much to explore locally with easy access to trails, parks, lakes, shopping, dining, and more.
Local communities have their own identity. Windermere offers lakefront charm, golf, boating, and a quieter pace (not to mention backyard access to Disney). Dr. Phillips brings dining at Restaurant Row and quick access to Orlando’s major attractions. Winter Garden adds the West Orange Trail, a lively downtown, local events, and a strong sense of place. Orlando may be ranked as a top staycation city, but for residents, the real question is which community feels like the right fit.
How The Funk Collection Helps Buyers Find Their Place In Orlando
Finding the right home in Orlando is not just about the property or its features. It is about understanding how each community feels and supports everyday life. With more than 25 years of real estate experience in Southwest Orlando, Jeffrey Funk and the team know the communities Windermere, Dr. Phillips, Winter Garden, and the surrounding areas inside and out with a clear understanding of lifestyle, location, and long-term fit.
Whether the goal is lake access, golf, dining, newer construction, or a quieter setting with more space, The Funk Collection helps narrow the search and highlights details that are easy to miss. Thinking about making Orlando’s staycation lifestyle part of everyday life? Let’s talk through the communities, homes, and local details worth knowing before making a move. Schedule a call with Jeff to start a conversation about your next move.
Posted by Jen Durben on
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