What’s Happening in Orlando, Florida?

Welcome to Orlando Buzz, a guide to one of the top lifestyle destinations in the world. Professional athletes, Fortune 500 companies and plenty of influential Americans call Orlando their home. Millions of visitors from every corner of the planet visit Orlando to take advantage of the weather, the attractions and the lifestyle.

While the iconic images like Mickey Mouse and Kennedy Space Center are often on folks’ minds when somebody mentions Orlando, locals know this city offers so much more than the world class visitor attractions. Gorgeous spring fed lakes, unrivaled golf courses, national sporting events and world class dining make Orlando a wonderful destination for residents no matter the stage of life.

We keep you informed about the events, recreation, restaurants, shopping and real estate news you need to get the most out of Orlando. Plus, we profile who and what’s happening around town with our feature articles – to give you a deeper flavor for this fantastic destination.

If you’re visiting or new around these parts, here’s your jumping off point for experiencing the best and brightest that Orlando, Florida has to offer. Take your pick of topics below, or head to the home page for the latest happenings in Orlando.

Orlando History

Local legend says the name Orlando came from a soldier named Orlando Reeves. Reeves died in 1835 as a result of an attack by Native Americans during the Second Seminole War. While camping on what is now Lake Eola, Reeves died as a result of the attack. This legend is not considered fact as conflicting military records question its accuracy. Nevertheless, a memorial on the banks of Lake Eola mark where Reeves supposedly fell.

In the late 1800′s, Orlando became the hub of Florida’s citrus industry, but the Great Freeze of 1895 was severe enough to cause much of the industry to be shifted south.

During the 1920′s, Orlando benefited from the Florida Land Boom which led to the development of a number of neighborhoods around the downtown area. These neighborhoods still have many bungalow style homes remaining today from this development boom.

During World War II, many Army personnel settled in Orlando as they were stationed at the Orlando Army Base. In 1956, Martin Marietta – a defense and aerospace company – built a plant in Orlando (now Lockheed Martin). The Army Base was eventually transitioned to a Naval Base. The Naval Base closed in 1993 and became the land that Baldwin Park sits on today. Nearby McCoy Air Force Base was also closed in 1975 and is now the Orlando International Airport.

Economy

In 1965, Walt Disney announced plans to build a theme park in Orlando, FL. This was a major economic catalyst as it helped lead to the build up of Orlando as a top tourist destination in the world. Orlando is sometimes referred to as the “Theme Park Capital of the World” as it houses multiple Disney theme parks, two Universal Studios theme parks and multiple SeaWorld theme parks.

Orlando rivals Las Vegas in terms of hotel capacity. With the resorts, the Convention Center and the theme parks, the tourism and convention business in Orlando employs masses of residents.

Other major corporations present in Orlando include Darden Restaurants, Lockheed Martin and Tupperware.