Every vacationer knows there's nothing like a local guide. When Golf Channel's Destination Golf program visited Orlando, show host (and local girl) Lauren Thompson gave viewers the insider's tour. Step inside a handful of area's finest golf courses, from Bay Hill, to the brand new Waldorf Astoria, to the courses at Disney. And what's an Orlando trip without a little off-course excitement? Watch Lauren take a race car for a spin, swim with the sea life at Discovery Cove, and even wrestle an alligator at Gatorland. Below, we've outlined Lauren's stops. And, you can click here to watch the program online.
Waldorf Astoria Orlando, nestled in the heart of over 482 pristine acres in Bonnet Creek, is a crown jewel unlike any other. An elegant and refined Orlando luxury hotel, this unique property remains passionately devoted to the well-being of each and every guest.
14224 Bonnet Creek Resort Lane
Orlando, FL 34746
Located just minutes from downtown Orlando, Dubsdread Golf Course features the oldest public layout in the area, originally designed in 1923 and renovated in 2008. This classic course has plenty of history attached to it as the former site of the Orlando Open, when it hosted such golf legends as Sam Snead, Ben Hogan and Claude Harmon.
549 W. Par St.
Orlando, FL 32804
Magic games are a great way to experience Orlando outside of the typical tourist traps and attractions. Watch Dwight Howard and the 2008-09 Eastern Conference Champion Orlando Magic LIVE as they make another playoff run - or take part in the inaugural season at the new Amway Center opening this fall.
Orlando, FL 32801
Lake Eola Park is a popular destination in the downtown area for both visitors and locals. Take advantage of the beautiful surroundings by renting a swan-shaped paddle boat or electric gondola.
Orlando, FL 32801
The city of Winter Park, located just minutes north of Orlando, was originally founded as a winter resort destination before the turn of the 20th century and is celebrated today by thousands of visitors to annual festivals including the Bach and nationally ranked Sidewalk Art Festival.
In early 1990, cable-entrepreneur Joseph E. Gibbs began his quest to launch a 24-hour golf network. As fate would have it, that same year Gibbs opened up his Birmingham, Ala., home to host one of the pros playing in the PGA Championship. That pro was none other than The King himself, Arnold Palmer. An immediate friendship developed between the two and that bond sparked the idea that became Orlando's own, GOLF CHANNEL.
Orlando, FL 32819
The Grand Cypress offers luxury hotel accommodations, endless golf and recreation and exquisite dining wrapped into a world-class Orlando golf resort.
1 N Jacaranda Street
Orlando, FL 32836-6618
After working up an appetite on the golf course, head to 4 Rivers - just north of Orlando in Winter Park for the signature Angus brisket dinner plate or sandwich.
Winter Park, FL 32789
The WPCC is the second oldest golf club in Winter Park, played by the likes of Hogan, Snead, Sarazen and Hagen...And with narrow tree-lined fairways and postage stamp, bunker guarded greens, it's sure to provide a challenge to even the most experienced golfer.
761 Old England Avenue
Drive or ride shotgun in a NASCAR-style stock car at speeds up to 120mph at the Walt Disney World Speedway at Walt Disney World Resort!
3450 World Drive
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
We all know Walt Disney World as the premiere family vacation destination in the world, but don't forget about the golf! Disney has 5 courses to choose from, including the Palm and Magnolia - host of the Children's Miracle Network Classic.
Osprey Ridge| Palm | Magnolia | Lake Buena Vista | Oak Trail
Gatorland is one of Central Florida's oldest attractions, providing a unique and natural alternative to the larger theme parks of today. Known internationally as the "Alligator Capital of the World," Gatorland is a 110-acre theme park and wildlife preserve, combining "Old Florida" charm with exciting, new exhibits and entertainment.
Orlando, FL 32837
Discovery Cove is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. Kick back on pristine beaches, float along a scenic tropical river, snorkel in crystal waters teeming with exotic fish and share a swim in a tranquil lagoon with a bottlenose dolphin.
Orlando, FL 32821
Mention the Bay Hill Club and Lodge and serious golfers will probably get a dreamy look in their eyes. Bay Hill is one of the most prestigious semi-private clubs in the country, if not the world. Of course any club with Arnold Palmer as president must be special.
9000 Bay Hill Blvd.
Orlando, FL 32819