Most people visit Orlando to treat their family to the fun at Disney World, Universal Studios and the other theme parks. But Orlando offers a lot more than these well-known attractions, and a good way to make your vacation culturally richer is to take advantage of Orlando's excellent museums and cultural offerings. Here is a brief guide to some of them.



The Orlando Museum of Art

The Orlando Museum of Art is regarded as one of the finest art museums in Florida and in the South. It was founded in 1924 and presents national and international exhibitions and has its own permanent collection which includes American, Pre-Columbian and African art.

The museum offers education programs that are attended by 37,000 school children each year. If you want information about the current exhibits and programs call 407-896-4231

Mailtland Art Center

This center is as renowned for its architecture as for its exhibits. The architecture of the center, designed in 1930 by Andre Smith, features Aztec Mayan motif and concrete relief carvings. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The art center exhibits contemporary fine arts and this includes photography, painting and sculpture. In addition the center is also an active cultural center with two artists in residence. 25 instructors are also on hand to teach fine arts classes.

For more information contact: Maitland Art Center, 231 W. Packwood (Midway between Winter park and Altamonte Spring, Maitland, Florida, 32751, Telephone: 407-539-2181

The Florida Young Artists Orchestra

If you are visiting Orlando during the school year why not take in a concert by the young musicians of this area? This orchestra was established in 1997 by a group of teachers, music professionals, community leaders and parents as a non-profit organization committed to providing an enriching experience for young artists in the area.

During the school year the students rehearse and perform at the UCF campus in Orlando.

Orlando Science Center

Are your kids fascinated by space travel and science? If so, then you should treat them to the Orlando's Science Center, the home of the largest domed theater and Digistar planetarium in the world.

The Center also sports four levels of hands-on science exhibits, a unique science store and a 250 seat Darden Adventure Theater. National and international traveling exhibits are offered throughout the year in the Center's 7000 sq. ft. exhibition area. If you want more information about the Science Center call 407-514-2000

You can make your next vacation to Orlando culturally stimulating as well as fun by taking advantage of the above-mentioned museums and cultural centers.