The Orlando Science Centre
This is a must see. It is definitely worth visiting the Orlando Science Centre, a reality-based science experience. This place is huge with 42,000 square feet, be sure you pick up a map in case you get lost! They have 12 themed display halls with hands-on exhibits which include mechanics, electricity and magnetism, maths, health and fitness, nature, the solar system, and light, lasers, and optics. You can walk through an enormous open mouth and journey through the human body. There is also a feature called Nature Works with live reptiles and a real buzzing beehive. The highlight is a cinema called CineDome, with a huge eight-story screen. This offers a breathtaking experience, from a cinematic trip to the Grand Canyon to fantastic undersea adventures. The centre also has the Einstein Players, its own performance troupe. Kids love this place. They can build bridges, have fun with maths, and even touch an alligator. On the ground floor children of 8 and under -- no parents allowed -- can hang out in Kids Town, shopping in miniature stores, exploring the root system of a tree or building with blocks. Kids can touch almost anything in the place including bugs and lizards, which most kids love. Some friends of ours took their 6 year old son, they said he loved it and they could hardly drag him away.
This all sits in Loch Haven Park, which is great for a picnic and to let the kids run free
777 East Princeton Street
Orlando, FL 32803
407-514-2000
Orlando Museum of Art
If you fancy something different perhaps even hi-brow then this might be for you. The Museum has been praised by Newsweek Magazine as one of the best art museums in the south. Founded in 1924 The Orlando Museum of Art has some outstanding permanent collections. It also has acknowledged world - class temporary exhibitions, interactive gallery activities, educational programs and a Museum Shop. The present 1950s architecture deserves a special mention. In my opinion the location and exhibits will appeal to visitors of around 10 years and over.
The museum has three permanent exhibits. The American Collection, housing nearly 900 paintings, spanning three centuries, these paintings reflect the many forces that have shaped American art from the Colonial period to the early 20th century. Among the artists are Benjamin West, John Henry, Thomas Moran and Rembrandt Peale. Discovery Guides are available for visitors to use free of charge. There are also prints, photographs and sculptures.
The Art of Ancient Americans Collection, boasts 500 artefacts of jade, gold and clay from Mexican, Costa Rican and Peruvian cultures, and an African collection of more than 70 artefacts, including masks, from various West African countries.
The museum is about to feature a substantial collection of Jewellery from private collections.
These will exhibit from December 12, 2004 – April 24, 2005. The "Treasured Jewellery" exhibition will have more than 70 stunning works by some of the most important artists in contemporary jewellery design including incredible baroque pearl and coloured diamond designs of the late New York designer Arthur King, the metal power objects of William Harper, the romantic designs of Albert Paley recalling European Art Nouveau, the intricate beaded designs of Joyce Scott, and rare examples of sculptor John Henry’s jewellery designs. Magnificent pieces from the American Southwest, Central America, South America, Africa and Asia showcase the jewellery traditions of many cultural groups.
You will find the museum along the I-4 at Exit 85 (Princeton St.). Take Princeton St. east onto Mills Avenue and it is on the left