Orlando, Florida
Orlando's favorable weather, affordable housing and prime location have helped make the city an exciting moving destination. New residents are attracted to the city's gorgeous setting and short drive to the coastal beaches. Growing numbers of manufacturers and distributors have relocated to the city to take advantage of its thriving work force, and major attractions like Walt Disney World, Sea World of Florida and Universal Studios Florida bring millions of visitors to town annually. Whether you are a long-time resident or planning to relocate, you will soon find that Orlando is a fun place to visit, and a superb place to live.
History:
Orlando remained a rural backwater during the American Civil War, and suffered dearly during the Federal Blockade. The Reconstruction Era brought a population boom, which led to the city’s incorporation in 1875. The period from 1875 to 1895 is considered Orlando's "Gilded Era," when it became the hub of Florida's citrus industry. During World War II, many Army personnel were stationed at the Pine Castle AAF. Some of these service members stayed in Orlando to settle and raise families. In 1956, the aerospace company Martin Marietta (later named Lockheed Martin) established a plant in Orlando. Perhaps the most critical event for the city’s economy occurred in 1965 when Walt Disney announced plans to build Walt Disney World. Although Disney had considered the cities of Miami and Tampa for the amusement park, one of the key reasons behind his decision not to locate in those cities was the risk of damaging hurricanes. The famous vacation resort opened in October 1971, and brought in an explosive population and economic growth for the city. Another major factor in Orlando's growth occurred in 1970, when the new Orlando International Airport was built. The city’s military base officially closed in 1974.
Economy:
Orlando is known worldwide for its entertainment attractions, particularly Walt Disney World and the film studios, which drive about $25 billion into the city’s economy. Behind the scenes of the city’s tourism and entertainment industry is a lively and diversified economy that has expanded enormously. Among its most important industry sectors are high technology, aviation and aerospace, film and television production, manufacturing and distribution. The aviation and aerospace industry has had a grip in the Orlando area for decades. The flight training industry was attracted to the city’s pleasant year-round climate, and military air bases were established in World War II. Since then, with a number of international and regional airports and thriving high technology expertise, the area has given rise to companies providing aircraft and ground support services. The arrival of technology-related companies to the area has made Orlando one of the fastest growing high tech hubs in the country. In addition to advanced manufacturing, Orlando is a prime setting for other types of manufacturing, warehousing and distribution. As for distribution, Orlando, Florida is one of the world's few quadramodal transportation centers; transporting goods by land, air, sea and space.
Tourism:
Orlando is the epicenter of fun and entertainment. No trip to Orland would be complete without a visit to one of the city’s world-famous amusement parks. Chose from Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, SeaWorld Orlando and a host of other attractions attracts. Then, check out Ripley’s Believe it or Not. Inside, you will find such oddities as a statue of a 1,069-pound man and a replica of a 1907 Rolls Royce built from over a million matchsticks. Next, head over to the Orlando Science Center. A glistening structure that is highlighted by the dome of the John Young Planetarium and looks like the product of a meeting between Greco-Roman architects and Star Trek engineers. The museum strives to educate the masses about classical science using modern, hands-on, sometimes high-tech activities. The exhibits often change, so you can always learn something new. When the sun goes down, head over to one of the city’s many popular bars or nightclubs. Orlando bars provide some of the hottest entertainment in the area.
Colleges/Universities:
• University of Central Florida
• Valencia College
• Herzig University
• Barry University School of Law
Interesting Facts:
• Orlando is the second most popular domestic travel destination in the country (Las Vegas placed first)
• Orlando is the corporate headquarters of Darden Restaurants, the owners of Olive Gardens and Red Lobsters
• The city of Orlando and the immediate area boast more theme parks and tourist attractions than anywhere else in the world
Helpful Links:
• City of Orlando
• Orlando Dental Offices
• Orlando Storage Facility
• Orlando Moving Guide