Travel hacks for making the most of an Orlando adventure

Whether you're looking for adrenaline-pumping thrills, family-friendly fun, great dining or unforgettable nightlife, you can find it on International Drive. Work on your swing at Top Golf or at one of the many epic mini golf courses, indulge at the Chocolate Kingdom Factory Adventure Tour, meet your favorite celeb at Madame Tussaud's, get behind the wheel at I-Drive NASCAR Kart Racing, and explore the ocean at Sea Life Orlando Aquarium, among other activities. You'll find the I-RIDE Trolley to be a useful way to get around when visiting attractions and eateries on International Drive. Plus, since there's so much to see and do here, get advice from the Travel Concierge at the Macy’s Visitor Center who can help you find deals and plan an itinerary.

One can't-miss International Drive adventure is the ICON Orlando. It's the tallest observation wheel on the East Coast (and the sixth-tallest in the world), clocking in at 400 feet tall. Book an air-conditioned capsule for 23 minutes of incredible views over Orlando, its theme parks and skyline. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Atlantic Ocean... or, if you do a bit of advance planning, you can time your ride so you can watch a launch from Kennedy Space Center from the wheel. Whether you ride during the day or at night to see Orlando all lit up, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

If you want something a bit more thrilling than the observation wheel, then the Starflyer is for you. It's the world's tallest swing ride, and it stands at 450 feet. Once you're strapped in securely next to a friend, the ride moves you up and down and you'll sail around the tower at up to 45 miles per hour, taking in stunning views of Orlando and International Drive the whole time. And if you're hesitant about taking the ride, don't worry; the Star Bar offers a shot called "Liquid Courage," among other drinks and cocktails.

For the ultimate Orlando night out, you can't do any better than Mango's Tropical Cafe. Mango's will transport you right to the colorful Caribbean with its "dinner and a show" concept. Live music, talented dancers, and high-energy performances set the scene perfectly. Calypso, mariachi, belly dancing, samba, disco, salsa, bachata, conga, and hip-hop are among the many music and dance styles you'll enjoy as you dine on Churrasco steak, ropa vieja, tostones, and other Latin-inspired specials. Additionally, there are multiple bars and rooms dedicated to different sounds and beats, so the fun doesn't have to end when the show does. The bar offers a wide range of mojitos, margaritas, jungle juices, and other delicious cocktails to keep you going.

After the thrills of International Drive, you can take some time to get back to nature in Orlando. Wekiwa Springs State Park is a lush paradise filled with sparkling natural springs feeding into the Wekiwa River. Snorkel or float on an inner tube in the crystal clear water of the spring, which is always at a constant 72 degrees. For more adventure, canoe onto the Wekiwa River or Rock Springs Run or explore their miles and miles of trails. There's also camping and a stellar Nature Center (where you can get up close and personal with snakes, turtles, and a gator.) It's hard to believe that this untouched slice of natural beauty is only minutes from downtown Orlando.