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Greater Orlando
Overview
The Orlando metropolitan area (officially, for U.S. census purposes, the Orlando–Kissimmee–Sanford, Florida metropolitan statistical area, MSA) is an inland metropolitan area in the central region of the U.S. state of Florida. Its principal cities are Orlando, Kissimmee, and Sanford. The U.S. Office of Management and Budget defines it as consisting of the counties of Lake, Orange (including Orlando), Osceola, and Seminole. According to the 2020 U.S. census, the population of Greater Orlando is 2,673,376, an increase of nearly 540,000 new residents between 2010 and 2020. By population, it is the third-largest metropolitan area in Florida, the seventh-largest in the Southeastern United States, and the 22nd-largest in the United States. The MSA encompasses 4,012 square miles (10,400 km2) of total area (both land and water areas).
Facts
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Source
WBP almanac
External sources
Media
From Wikipedia4,967 words
WBP editorial3
Beyond the Theme Parks: Suburban Culture
While the parks dominate the global brand, the Greater Orlando area’s suburban neighbourhoods tell a different story. Communities such as Windermere and Winter Park host weekly farmers’ markets where small‑scale growers showcase heirloom tomatoes, citrus varieties and artisanal cheese. The architecture ranges from Mid‑Century Modern homes in Lake Mary to New Urbanist developments in Celebration, offering a tangible glimpse of post‑war American planning. Cycling lanes now link these suburbs to university campuses, inviting visitors to trade a shuttle ride for a leisurely two‑wheel tour of leafy boulevards and lakeside parks. For travellers seeking a more grounded sense of place, strolling through these quieter streets reveals the daily rhythm that sustains the region’s tourism engine.
Seasonal Flavour: When the Heat Gives Way to Harvest
Orlando’s subtropical climate is often reduced to sweltering summer days, yet the shoulder months of October to December bring a subtle shift. Afternoon thunderstorms nourish the orange groves, resulting in a brief window when citrus‑laden trees reach peak sweetness. Local eateries begin to feature menu specials built around freshly pressed juice and marmalades, while craft breweries introduce limited‑edition hops harvested from nearby farms. Birdwatchers also benefit, as migratory warblers pass through the wetlands of the Econ River during this period. Timing a visit for this transitional season rewards guests with milder humidity, richer food experiences and a quieter ambience at popular attractions.