View source for Orlando

'''Orlando''' is a major city in central [[Florida]] and one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world. Best known as the home of Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort, it also has a growing tech sector and vibrant local culture.

== Overview ==

* '''Population''': ~320,000 (over 2.5 million in the metro area)
* '''Nicknames''': The City Beautiful, Theme Park Capital of the World
* '''Founded''': Incorporated in 1875
* '''Geography''': Located in Central Florida, surrounded by lakes and wetlands

== Landmarks and Attractions ==

* Walt Disney World Resort – the largest theme park complex in the world
* Universal Orlando Resort – includes Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure
* SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica
* ICON Park and The Wheel
* Lake Eola Park – in the heart of downtown

== Economy ==

Orlando's economy is powered by:
* '''Tourism and entertainment''' – tens of millions of visitors annually
* '''Hospitality and retail'''
* '''Technology and simulation industries'''
* '''Higher education and healthcare'''

== Education and Innovation ==

* Home to the University of Central Florida (UCF) — one of the largest U.S. universities by enrollment
* A hub for simulation and defense-related technologies
* Rapidly growing tech startup ecosystem

== Culture and Lifestyle ==

* Family-friendly and multicultural
* Major food and arts scene emerging downtown and in Winter Park
* Hosts MegaCon and various film, music, and cultural festivals
* Mix of suburban living and tourist excitement

== Transportation ==

* Orlando International Airport (MCO) – one of the busiest in the U.S.
* SunRail commuter rail system
* Extensive highway system and rideshares
* Brightline high-speed rail expansion underway

== Fun Facts ==

* Over 75 million tourists visited Orlando in a single year (pre-2020)
* Orlando was once a center for citrus farming before tourism exploded
* Disney World alone is roughly the size of San Francisco

== See Also ==
* [[Florida]]
* [[Tourism in the United States]]
* [[Southeastern States]]
* [[United States Cities]]