Orlando

Orlando (ôrlăn'dō) [key], city (1990 pop. 164,693), seat of Orange co., central Fla., in a lake region; inc. 1875. In a citrus fruit and farm area, it is one of the world's most visited vacation spots. Orlando's economy focuses on aerospace and electronics, but tourism brings in the largest revenues. Located 15 mi (24 km) SW is the Disney World theme park, including the EPCOT Center and Animal Kingdom. Also nearby are two other major attractions, Sea World and Universal Studios Florida. Luxury hotels, restaurants, and tourist facilities abound in and near Orlando, which is noted for its mild climate. The city was settled near Fort Gatlin, a post established (c.1837) during the Seminole War. The Univ. of Central Florida is there, and Rollins College is in nearby Winter Park. There is a busy international airport, and the city is home to the Magic (National Basketball Association).

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2007, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

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