Want to explore the world without leaving Orlando? We’ve got some ideas. Of course we all want to raise extremely cultured children. And of course we want them to want to try new things and seek new adventures. And sometimes we just really want some pho without having to get a babysitter. So take those gorgeous kiddos out around town and explore the world! All without getting on a plane, because we know that’s a lot.
Do you have a favorite international spot to visit with the kiddos? We want to know!
Editor’s Note: Yes go to Epcot! It’s awesome! But this is a non-theme park version of exploring the world without leaving our City Beautiful. Expand your horizons yall!
Art & History Museums – Maitland
231 W Packwood Ave, Maitland, FL 32751
We’ve recommended this intriguing spot before as one of our favorite photo spots. The Center offers so much history for your family to explore.
The A&H’s Maitland Art Center was founded as an art colony in 1937 by visionary American artist and architect, André Smith (1880-1959). His legacy continues with contemporary art exhibitions in the galleries, two residency programs for professional artists, art programming, and a strong curriculum of art instruction in an intimate atmosphere.
The Art Center is one of the few surviving examples of “Mayan Revival” or fantasy architecture in the Southeast, which is one of the main reasons it was named the first National Historic Landmark in the four-county area of Central Florida.
The A&H’s Maitland Art Center offers a more immersive and intimate experience than a static museum, and encourages visitors to take a closer look at the artists and the artistic process. Visit this historic, aesthetic gem set in the middle of busy Central Florida.
Backhaus German Bakery & Deli
1213 N Orange Ave Orlando, FL 32804
This cute little spot on Lake Ivanhoe has a German bakery and deli for you to enjoy. Grab some food and sweets and head across the street for a picnic lunch.
What is Backhaus? In the ancient times, people cooked and baked in their own homes on open fires. When the Roman Empire ruled over Europe in the 17th century, baking inside private homes was no longer permitted,due to fire hazards and extensive wood consumption. Consequently every township built a baking facility for their community.
It was called “Backhaus” i.e. baking house. The wood fired ovens were lit up once a week and everybody was able to bring their cooking or baking items.
Orlando’s Backhaus is a family owned business that offers authentic german food and baked goods. You’ll enjoy the charm, the taste, and the excellent location!
Bronze Kingdom
3201 E. Colonial Dr., M16, Orlando, FL 32803 (At the Fashion Square Mall)
Step into an extensive African art gallery that has over 2,000 pieces of art! The gallery is open for public tours and highlights the collection of Mr. Rawlvan R. Bennett. He acquired the pieces over 37 years directly from African leaders through cultivated relationships and respectful negotiations, building schools, hospitals, and bridges for West African communities.
Bronze Kingdom represents an important spectrum of African bronze, beaded, and wood sculptures from all over the continent including Nigeria, Cameroon, Mali, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Senegal, and The Democratic Republic of The Congo. Especially notable are grand palatial pieces from the Benin and Bamoun tribal kingdoms, some dating back to the early 1600s.
Little Vietnam
Start exploring at the Mills Ave and Colonial Drive
The Orlando Sentinel explains: Vietnamese people started arriving in Central Florida in 1975 after the fall of South Vietnam, according to a 1990 story. The story stated there were at least 25 Vietnamese businesses near the intersection of Mills and Colonial, up from a “handful” five years earlier.
Today the Vietnamese culture can be seen all around in shops, restaurants, and businesses. But there’s also a diversification with new trendy restaurants popping up and second generation Vietnamese restauranteurs bringing a new spin on traditions. It’s a fascinating look at old and new. Your family will enjoy exploring everything the district has to offer.
Scottish Highland Games
Special Event the third weekend in January of each year
Take a trip back in time and experience Scottish arts and culture at one of Orlando’s most unique festivals. Experience traditional highland athletics, dance, art, music, culture, food and a Gaelic spirit at the Central Florida Scottish Highland Games!
