Oviedo: Escape the Ordinary (and the Theme Park Crowds)
You've heard of Orlando, the theme park capital of the universe. But have you heard of Oviedo, the quirky, charming town just a stone's throw away? Forget the long lines and screaming rollercoasters (though, hey, they're still an option if you get the itch). Oviedo offers a delightful dose of Central Florida with a side of unexpected fun.
What To Do In Oviedo Florida |
Embrace Your Inner Naturalist (Without Roughing It)
- Hit the Trails: Trade park maps for a hiking adventure at the Econ River Wilderness Area or the Little Big Econ State Forest. Spot alligators (from a safe distance!), listen to the symphony of birdsong, and maybe even stumble upon a hidden hammock for a siesta.
- Paddle Power: Rent a kayak or canoe and explore the glassy waters of Lake Jesup. Keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife – turtles, otters, and maybe even a bald eagle soaring overhead. Bonus points for spotting a renegade chicken – yes, Oviedo has a thing for clucking comrades roaming free!
Unleash Your Inner Foodie (Without Breaking the Bank)
- Downtown Delights: Oviedo's historic downtown is a treasure trove of tempting restaurants. Grab a gourmet burger at Grind Burger Kitchen, savor authentic Italian at Carrabba's Italian Grill, or indulge in fresh seafood at Ceviche Tapas Bar.
- Sweet Treats: Craving something sugary? Don't miss Oviedo's award-winning cupcake shop, Sprinkles. Their flavors are out-of-this-world (think red velvet with cream cheese frosting or cookies and cream).
Embrace the Weird (It's What Makes Oviedo Special)
- The Oviedo Chickens: Yes, you read that right. Chickens. These feathered friends are an unofficial mascot, strutting their stuff around town since the 1870s. Don't worry, they're more interested in pecking for bugs than bothering tourists.
- Catch a Flick...Under the Stars: Every month, Oviedo throws a movie night in the park. Bring a blanket, grab some popcorn (and maybe some bug spray), and settle in for a classic film under the Florida sky.
Pro Tip: Check out the Oviedo Farmers Market for locally-sourced produce, handcrafted goodies, and a chance to mingle with friendly Oviedo residents (human and maybe even clucking kind).
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FAQs:
How to get to Oviedo? Oviedo is easily accessible by car. If you're flying in, Orlando International Airport is the closest major airport.
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How to get around Oviedo? Oviedo is a walkable town, but you can also rent a bike or hop on a rideshare app if you want to cover more ground.
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How long should I stay in Oviedo? A weekend getaway is perfect to get a taste of Oviedo's charm. But if you want to relax and explore at your own pace, a whole week wouldn't be excessive (especially if you plan on conquering all those cupcake flavors).
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Is Oviedo kid-friendly? Absolutely! With parks, trails, and even a butterfly encounter, Oviedo offers plenty to keep little ones entertained.
What are some events happening in Oviedo during my visit? Check out the Oviedo website or local event calendars to see what's happening during your stay. You might stumble upon a street festival, live music performance, or quirky local competition (think Oviedo's Annual Watermelon Seed Spitting Championship – yes, it's a real thing!).