When many people think of Orlando, Florida, they think of all things Disney or Universal Studios. Yet, several off-the-beaten-path activities are available whether you are visiting for the first time or are a resident. The variety means there is something for everyone to enjoy in the city.
Rock and Roll Heaven
Music lovers of all ages will love Rock and Roll Heaven. This all-inclusive record store is located at 1814 N. Orange Ave. They offer every genre of music, from rock to spoken word. You can find vinyl records, CDs, and cassette tapes. They also provide a selection of movies on DVDs. Round out your trip with a new T-shirt, collectible, or toy.
Take a Kayak or Canoe Tour
Do you enjoy spending time on the water? Would you like a unique view of the city? Stop by Epic Paddle Adventures; they offer a variety of tours for every skill level. You can take a tour with your friends or family to visit the manatees. Are you looking for a unique, romantic tour? Try the sunset paddleboard or straightforward kayak adventure. A special date night package uses glow light kayaks and includes champagne. For the family, book a paddleboard adventure around Orlando during the day. It's an excellent way to see the city at your pace.Â
Regardless of your tour, bringing sunscreen and a water bottle is essential. A towel is also good if you have plans after that time. The adventures are not for anyone using a wheelchair or with children in a stroller. You are allowed to bring your pet.
Hop Aboard an Airboat
Are you and your friends or family interested in the Everglades? Take the short drive from Orlando to Kissimmee for a Boggy Creek Airboat Adventure. Reservations are recommended; however, you can take a 30-minute tour on a walk-in basis before 5 p.m. They are open seven days a week for you to explore a natural wonder in a unique way.
There are five tours to choose from: a half-hour, an hour, a private tour, a sunset, or a night tour. Each time frame allows you to see a different side of the national park. The night tour requires you to arrive 30 minutes early to check in. Are you looking to turn your tour into an all-day adventure? The company offers a special package that includes your choice of a daytime tour and lunch. After lunch, the kids will visit a local gem mine to search for unique souvenirs to bring home.
Tour a Chocolate Factory
The weather in Florida can be unpredictable at times. If you want something to do inside, check out the Chocolate Kingdom. The factory is located at 9901 Hawaiian Court. They are open seven days a week from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. They recommend buying tickets online before you arrive to guarantee your spot on the tour. The tour lasts about 45 minutes. Bring your sweet tooth as samples are offered throughout the time. Children are allowed on tour; everyone over four needs a ticket. Take home a tasty treat with a customized chocolate bar for $9 in addition to the ticket.
Gatorland
Spend some time with Florida's most recognizable animal, the alligator. Take the family to Gatorland at 14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail. You can easily spend several hours visiting various animals on the property. Four types of venomous snakes help make up the mile of monsters on the site. Reptile fans will enjoy the snakes on display. This is a great way to learn about snakes that might wind up in your yard and other locations. You can also watch an encounters show. If you like big cats, check out the bobcat bayou area.Â
The Jungle Crocs area is located behind the breeding marsh of the alligator exhibit. The most visited site of the property houses their famous alligators and crocodiles. There are rare white alligator adults and the chance to check on various baby gators. In all, over 2,000 alligators live on the property. Along with the Gators, the area is also home to several crocodiles. They have all the significant species, including Nile, Saltwater, and Cuban crocodiles, on hand.Â
There are also a variety of birds that call the property home. Once you are done with the animals, head over to the zipline. This adrenaline rush will give you an unforgettable breathtaking view. You can also check out the barnyard and petting zoo. Stick around at night to enjoy an extraordinary look at many animals.Â
Take the family on a heart-pounding gator adventure with the Stomp Gator Off-Road Adventure. Riders board custom-made 12-foot-high vehicles. While safely enjoying the views, your guide will get you as close to the animals as possible. Riders must be at least 3 feet tall. You can reserve your ride upon your arrival at the park.
 The park offers two options if you want to know what it's like behind the scenes. The adventure hour takes you to the background setting of the alligator breeding marsh. They also have a two-hour trainer for a day program that starts at 8 a.m. Among the activities on tour is the opportunity to hold a baby alligator. Reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance; participants must be at least 12 years old. Tickets to Gatorland are part of the package; however, food and drink are not included.Â
If you are concerned about not bringing your camera to the park, don't worry. You can purchase photos through the website once you return home. All you need to do is pick your date, time, and activity. You can also visit the virtual gift shop before or after your visit.
Whether heading out for a natural exploration or spending time in an exceptional neighborhood, stop by Gibson Truck World. Our knowledgeable staff is looking forward to answering all of your truck questions. We also love giving our recommendations of places to enjoy throughout the city.
Image by Mick Haupt is licensed with  Unsplash License