Gosh darn it, even if you've never considered yourself a sports fan, we suggest getting out of your comfort zone a bit and hitting up an Orlando City SC (men's team) or Orlando Pride (women's team) soccer game. If you've never been before, opt for the cheap seats in the Supporters Section. That's the best way to experience the game. Best part for the newbies and/or socially awkward among us is that you don't need to be there with anyone else, or know anyone else there to have a good time. Just don't make enemies by cheering for the other team or wearing the competition's colors (stick to purple, white, gray or black). As long as you avoid buying literally anything else at the stadium (besides a ticket, obviously) it's a relatively budget-friendly way to get out and experience Orlando sports ... or to people-watch with a soccer game conveniently just happening in the background.
This obviously very competitive award goes to the young black bear spotted at Lake Eola Park in early June of this year, who camped out for several days as wildlife officials worked to get ahold of the little guy. For days, Orlandoans followed to action on social media for updates like "The Bear came down from his tree at around 1am, investigated the @MyFWC trap, then ran east." On his final day in Orlando, he hung out in a tree next to World of Beer before wildlife officials from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission were able to safely capture the bear (nicknamed "Blaze" by local State Rep. Anna Eskamani) with plans to release him into the wild at Ocala National Forest. Godspeed, Blaze. Godspeed.
For bicyclists, the City of Orlando does some things right, and this little wooded trail is one of them. A pump track outside gives mountain bikers a warm-up before they swerve around a clay pile to enter the jungle. "Rock Garden" is actually broken concrete all jaggedy and mossy, good for your nerves; "Root of All Evil" requires dexterity without being too technical. The resident coyotes mostly sleep during the day, so rabbits and owls may play hide-and seek while you ride. Pose for selfies by the Area 51-like cage of lake cleanup equipment deep inside this trail, which speaks to the park's wartime past. The park's other areas — a community garden and dog park — complement a large open field along the southeastern origin of the Cady Way trail. (899 Coy Drive)
We can't imagine a better hour than one spent sipping mimosas (or even ignoring mimosas) while you let a sweet little baby goat jump on your back. Alaska Farms and House on Lang join together to provide the sweetest snuggles and sips that not only allow the goats to socialize, but help greatly improve your mental health. Once you're done getting all the cuddles — if that's even possible — indulge in a little retail therapy inside House on Lang. (1308 Lang Ave., houseonlang.com)
If Space Mountain was your favorite Disney ride growing up, this coaster is definitely for you. Cosmic Rewind is the smoothest roller coaster ever and seriously makes you feel like you're soaring through the galaxy. And because it's themed to Guardians of the Galaxy, there's a rad soundtrack of '70s and '80s hits to accompany you on your journey to save the world. (Of the six possible song choices on this ride, the absolute best is "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" by Tears for Fears, we will not be taking questions.) This attraction gets extra bonus points for an indoor queue that is not only a great way to escape the heat, but also so perfectly themed that we finally understand why some rides deserve to have pre-show areas.
EPCOT, disneyworld.disney.go.com
When it comes to recreation, few things are as timeless as roller skating. But with only about three rinks in the greater metro area, it can get tight out there on the floor, and one shared sentiment between serious skaters and novices alike is that crowds can be a bummer. Get this: Orange County's Barber Park in the Conway area features an excellent full-size concrete rink. It's fully covered, well-maintained, seldom busy and free, a quality public facility of an increasingly rare kind. Scheduled activities tend to occur there on mornings and evenings, but most afternoons are open skate. Just check the rink's calendar on the park's website and get rolling.
3701 Gatlin Ave.; rink calendar
