Orlando, Florida, is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, known for its theme parks, entertainment, and family-friendly atmosphere. While the city is synonymous with attractions like Disney World and Universal Studios, it also offers a rich local culture, a growing economy, and a high quality of life for residents. Below is a detailed description of Orlando, highlighting key facts and features.

City Charter Date

Orlando was officially incorporated as a city on July 31, 1875. Originally a small cattle town, Orlando grew rapidly with the development of the citrus industry and later became a major global tourist destination after the opening of Walt Disney World in 1971.

Current Population

As of the latest estimates, Orlando has a population of approximately 310,000 residents. However, the Greater Orlando metropolitan area, which includes surrounding communities like Kissimmee and Sanford, is home to over 2.5 million people. The city’s diverse population includes individuals from all over the world, drawn by the tourism industry, technology sector, and sunny weather.

Elevation

Orlando sits at an elevation of about 82 feet (25 meters) above sea level. The area’s relatively flat terrain, dotted with lakes and wetlands, makes it ideal for development while also offering plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities.

Weather

Orlando enjoys a humid subtropical climate, with long, hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures average around 92°F (33°C), with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Winters are much milder, with daytime highs ranging from 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). Orlando receives around 53 inches of rainfall annually, mostly between June and September. While hurricanes are a potential threat, the city is located inland, which mitigates the impact of tropical storms compared to coastal areas.

Main Attractions

Orlando is famous for its world-class attractions, drawing millions of visitors each year. Some of the city’s main attractions include:

• Walt Disney World Resort: The crown jewel of Orlando’s tourism industry, Disney World is home to four theme parks, including Magic Kingdom and Epcot, as well as water parks and resorts.
• Universal Orlando Resort: Another major attraction, Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure offer thrilling rides, shows, and experiences, including the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
• SeaWorld Orlando: A marine-themed park featuring live animal shows, thrilling rides, and educational exhibits, SeaWorld is a popular destination for families and animal lovers.
• ICON Park: Located on International Drive, ICON Park features the 400-foot-tall Wheel, offering panoramic views of the city, as well as restaurants, shops, and family-friendly attractions.

Government Type

Orlando operates under a mayor-commission form of government. The mayor serves as the chief executive, responsible for overseeing city operations, while the six-member City Council handles legislative functions, such as passing ordinances and setting policies.

City Hall

Orlando City Hall is located at 400 S. Orange Avenue, Orlando, FL 32801. It houses the offices of the mayor and City Council and provides a central location for city services and public meetings.

Emergency Services

Orlando has a well-equipped police and fire department to ensure the safety of residents and visitors. Important emergency contact numbers include:

• Orlando Police Department (Non-Emergency): (321) 235-5300
• Orlando Fire Department: (407) 246-3128

Utilities

Utility services in Orlando are managed by various providers. Key contact information includes:

• Orlando Utilities Commission (Electric and Water): (407) 423-9018
• Waste Management (Garbage Collection): (407) 246-2314

Public Transportation

Orlando’s public transportation system is managed by Lynx, which operates buses throughout the city and surrounding areas. For more information on routes and schedules, contact:

• Lynx Public Transportation: (407) 841-5969

Kid’s Activities

Orlando is a city full of family-friendly attractions. Some popular locations for children’s activities include:

• Crayola Experience: Located at the Florida Mall, this interactive attraction lets kids explore the world of Crayola through creative activities like coloring, crafting, and even making their own crayon. (407) 757-1700
• Orlando Science Center: A hands-on science museum offering exhibits and activities that cater to children of all ages, including interactive displays on space, dinosaurs, and the natural world. (407) 514-2000
• Gatorland: Known as the “Alligator Capital of the World,” Gatorland offers fun and educational experiences with Florida’s famous reptiles, including shows, exhibits, and a petting zoo. (407) 855-5496