TRAVELANDLIFESTYLE-PARTIII
THE TEAM
Dear Readers,
Welcome to our third and final edition of our Central Florida Lifestyle Staycation Guide for June 2025! Whether you’re local or new to the area, we’re here to help you rediscover the world of adventure that Central Florida has to offer
With summer in full swing, it’s important to spend less time stressing and more time with family and friends This edition includes plenty of tips for tackling all that Central Florida has to offer this summer, from local activities to featured locations We have also continued our Influencer Spotlight and shed light on the best local places to stay
Enjoy a breakdown of why Orlando continues to top national lists and how you can enjoy the perks like a visitor. Plus, stay tuned for our upcoming contests open to anyone, including Best Hotels, Cutest Pet, and Cutest Toddler
As a new member to the CFL team and an avid summer lover, putting this edition of tips and tricks together has been such an honor I hope this guide makes planning your next getaway a little easier, with new, exciting experiences awaiting, minus the airport stress Have a great summer!
EDITORIAL INTERN
AvaMcDonnell
STAYCATION MAGIC NEAR ORLANDO: DISCOVER MYSTIC DUNES & AQUA SOL FOR FAMILY FUN WITHOUT THE TRAVEL HASSLE
BYMELISSADONOVAN
For Central Florida families looking to take a break without boarding a plane or sitting in hours of traffic, two local Hilton Grand Vacation Club resorts Mystic Dunes and Aqua Sol offer staycation-friendly options that blend convenience with classic vacation perks Whether you're looking for a relaxing escape close to the magic of Disney or a splash-filled summer retreat with built-in water fun, these resorts provide easy ways to recharge without leaving the region
Mystic Dunes Resort: A Laid-Back Escape
Minutes from Disney
Sometimes the best getaways are the ones that don’t involve suitcases or long car rides Mystic Dunes Resort, located just five miles from the entrance to Walt Disney World®, offers a quiet setting for families who want to enjoy the area’s theme park magic without the pace of the tourist zones
The resort’s one-, two-, and three-bedroom suites give families room to spread out, cook meals in a kitchenette or full kitchen, and settle in for a stress-free weekend
It’s a practical choice for locals who want to feel “away” while still being close to home
Features include:
A pool complex with a waterslide and sun deck Tennis, basketball, and outdoor games
Shuttle service to both Walt Disney World® and Universal Orlando
An 18-hole golf course bordering the property
On-site dining is available at Kenzie’s Restaurant, which overlooks the golf course, and two poolside bars offer snacks and drinks for laid-back afternoons The resort’s slower pace and spacious setup make it especially appealing for families looking to wind down, not gear up
Aqua Sol: A Waterpark Staycation for Summer Fun
If your idea of a summer escape includes sunscreen, splash zones, and poolside snacks, Aqua Sol checks all the boxes. Situated along US-192, the all-suite resort is about 15 minutes from Walt Disney World® and features its own on-site waterpark, making it an easy pick for families looking to keep kids active and cool without venturing far
All suites come with full kitchens, making it simple to prep meals or snacks during longer stays For those heading to the theme parks, complimentary shuttle service is available to Walt Disney World®, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld
Highlights include:
Three swimming pools, including one with a kids' play area
A family-friendly waterpark right on the property
A bar and grill with kid-friendly options and weekend breakfast service
On-site amenities like a fitness center and game areas
With a mix of convenience and built-in activities, Aqua Sol offers a summer-friendly environment where families can stay active without leaving the resort or hop on a shuttle for theme park adventures
Limited-Time Summer Offer
Both Mystic Dunes and Aqua Sol are currently offering a 20% discount off the best available rates for stays through December 18 The deal is available for bookings made between May 1 and August 31, with a minimum two-night stay. Major holidays are excluded. Making the Most of a Local Getaway
For families in Central Florida, planning a weekend away doesn’t have to involve logistics or long-distance travel
Mystic Dunes offers a calm, comfortable launchpad near Disney, while Aqua Sol turns summer heat into poolside fun with shuttle access to Orlando’s biggest attractions
Whether you're looking to unwind or wear out the kids, both options make a strong case for keeping your vacation close to home
Why Leave Town When Paradise Is Right Here?
Hilton Grand Vacations Club Resorts offers a staycation dream accommodation, whether you’re a local or a visitor With Central Florida staples right outside your door and top amenities, what more could you need for a getaway?
FIVE BEST SUMMER ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS IN LAKE NONA
BY MELISSA DONOVAN
School is out, summer is heating up, and parents are looking for new things to do with their kids The Lake Nona area has been built up as a medical hub in Central Florida, but is filled with community-centric activities, perfect for families to entertain their little ones From summer camps to play cafes, we have compiled a list of the five best things to do with your kids this summer
Terra Play Center
For families with children from six months to eight years old, Terra Play Center has crafted an all-abilities play cafe offering a sensory-friendly environment to support children’s development at every stage Kids can enjoy imaginative structures and calming sensory zones, allowing them to “learn through play.” Parents and caregivers are required to stay on-site, and the center encourages them to play with their littles to create core memories Each open play session lasts for two hours, allowing the kids to move around and explore the space For more flexibility, Terra Play Center offers memberships for unlimited weekday visits (with some exclusions), exclusive perks, and discounted rates on parties and events Advanced online booking is recommended to secure your space at the indoor playground
Enjoy sipping on some of the delights from Terra Play Center’s full-service cafe while watching your little one thrive
Nona Adventure Park
An inflatable aqua park, cable park, 60-foot climbing tower, rock walls, and more offer the perfect adventure to any thrill-seeking family Nona Adventure Park brings the action for those looking for some excitement this summer Alongside all of the watersports, families can aslo enjoy live entertainment like bands, karaoke or comedy while munching on food from Splashes Bar and Grill Parents can sip drinks from the bar and take part in the park’s bottomless mimosas on Sundays
For children ages 7-15, Nona Adventure Park offers summer camps where they can learn more about watersports, tune into their artistic side, and meet exotic animals, while creating lasting memories Camps run through early August and still have availability Nona Adventure Park also offers birthday party packages, including food, drink and of course, adventure without any of the stress of planning a celebration For more information, please check out their website and use code CFL10OFF for 10% off of your purchase
Cinema at Crescent Park: “Moana 2” Screening August 1
This summer, Crescent Park in Lake Nona transforms into an open-air cinema experience that’s perfect for families On Friday, August 1, gather under the stars for a screening of “Moana 2,” the much-anticipated sequel to Disney’s oceanic adventure. The film will begin at sunset, but families are encouraged to arrive early with blankets, chairs, and picnic baskets to grab a good spot on the lawn.
Crescent Park’s movie nights offer a laid-back, safe environment where kids can play and parents can unwind Local food vendors and nearby restaurants in Lake Nona Town Center make it easy to grab dinner before the show Whether you’re revisiting the magic of Moana or introducing your kids to her story for the first time, this community event is a must-do for summer
Cranium Academy
Children can enjoy challenging themselves and growing academically and socially this summer at Cranium Academy. Located in East Orlando (near Lake Nona) and Winter Garden, the school offers full-day, weeklong summer camps for children from 4 years old to 12 years old, where they can learn more about arts, humanities and sciences These camps offer a range of themes such as “Blowing off STEAM,” “Master Chefs,” and “Legendary Creatures from Around the Globe,” and campers will be able to utilize advanced learning technology and enjoy hands on tasks
During the school year, both locations offer challenging, individualized curricula, introducing students to critical thinking, creative problem solving, and hands-on education The East Orlando location offers classes from 12 months old to 5th grade, while the Winter Garden location has availability from 12 months old to 8th grade Their low student-to-teacher ratio, interactive learning environment, and educators certified in child development make for a great learning setting When students are not learning about all things language, art, music, science and character development-related, they can enjoy Cranium’s indoor and outdoor play areas
Lake Nona Trails: Green Space Meets Adventure
Lake Nona offers families over 40 miles of trails and paths designed for walking, jogging, and biking making it one of the most outdoor-friendly communities in Central Florida With 40% of the community reserved for green space, the trails weave through scenic parks, lakes, and playgrounds Whether you’re planning a stroller-friendly morning walk, a bike ride with the kids, or a solo run, there’s a route for every pace For an added layer of fun and convenience, explore the area on a Bird e-bike or scooter by downloading the Bird app perfect for ecofriendly exploration Fitness lovers can discover routes with some of Lake Nona’s best views, while families will enjoy spontaneous playground stops along the way These trails aren’t just for exercise they’re a way to connect with nature, art, and community in a thoughtfully designed environment
Lake Nona has become a bustling component of Central Florida As it continues to grow, take time to look around and see all the community has to offer.
PhotocourtesyofMeiAshton
BYMELISSADONOVAN
As an 18-year-old, Mei Ashton has accomplished a lot in her life. She has met infamous celebrities, travelled the world, and successfully launched her own crochet business
All the while, dealing with four rare, invisible diseases
Towards the end of her sophomore year of high school in 2022, Ashton said she began to experience stomach issues Having trouble digesting and feeling sick after eating, Ashton said she knew something was wrong, while others tried to pass it off as another teenage girl with gut problems
After over a year of doctor’s visits and lots of trial and error, Ashton said she was diagnosed with gastroparesis, Nutcracker Syndrome (NSC), Super Mesenteric Artery Syndrome (SMAS), and most recently, Autoimmune Progestrone Dermatitis (APD).
“I [would] feel really bad for anyone who had the same stuff as me, because it's not easy to manage, but I'm glad it's me I'm not sure if that makes sense, but I'm glad that I have it rather than someone else,” Ashton said
Since her diagnosis, Ashton has transitioned from Olympia High School to Florida Virtual School while managing a 90 percent liquid diet She said she has done her best to utilize medical mixes, protein powders, and broths to maintain a healthy weight and avoid a feeding tube
“She manages her diet entirely on her own, which is baffling to me because if roles were reversed, I would have asked for a feeding tube and called it a day,”
Jeannie Lee, Ashton’s mom, said in an email “She’s taking the difficult path People don’t see her jump around, stretch, or get on her walking mat after every meal to help digest No complaining, no victim mentality for her”
After learning how to crochet during the pandemic, Ashton said she fostered her love for the craft during the early stages of her diagnosis She taught herself how to create clothes and plushies and design patterns
She later started her crochet business, AMEIzing Art USA, where she began teaching classes at local coffee shops, selling patterns in her online shop, and posting about it on her growing social media accounts
“My body doesn't feel good, and I need something to do to take my mind off of it and put me at ease, so [crochet] became a therapy for me,” Ashton said Her crafty passion turned into a funding avenue for her worldwide graduation trip Instead of walking the stage to conclude her academic career, Ashton decided to visit 12 countries-- one for every year of school
With the help of friends and family, Ashton visited Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Austria, Iceland, Norway, England, France, Malaysia, and Singapore-- where Ashton said she hopes to move to in the future
During her travels, she said she was able to become more independent in terms of managing food she could eat on her limited diet while abroad
“I enjoyed myself on that trip, and I think that taught me a lot about managing my food, because I always had to be on the lookout for places I could go to get food,”
Ashton said “ Being able to do it myself, I feel like that's come far from where I was ”
Ashton has shared her crochet and travel journey on her social media accounts, while also bringing attention to her invisible illnesses She has built up a community of 33K on Instagram and 65 8K on TikTok
“I don’t know how her little posts get the reach they get,” Lee said “But she’s authentic, real, and honest, which I think it appeals to people She’s wholesome, fun, light. She makes a conscious effort not to post anything negative because she believes there is enough negativity online ”
She continues to share crochet tutorials, products she created, and some of her favorite moments, like meeting celebrities such as actor Daniel Radcliffe at his Broadway show “Merrily We Roll Along” or singer Laufey at one of her concerts.
“I would say that [posting on social media] didn't quite help my business as much, but it helped my soul, like knowing that people are happy that I'm giving crochet tutorials and showing inspiration, because comments were nice,” Ashton said
or what they say, but it is to me ”
Instagram: @ameizingartusa
TikTok: @meiscrochet
PhotocourtesyofMeiAshton
PhotocourtesyofMeiAshton
THE RISE OF THE TECH COAST: LAKE NONA AND ORLANDO EMERGE AS THE NEXT AI POWERHOUSE
BY WAYLONKRUSH,CEOOFZEROTRUSTEDAI
Once known mostly for its sunshine and theme parks (and still known for them), Orlando and specifically Lake Nona is fast becoming Florida’s most ambitious tech and AI corridor What began as a smart city experiment has evolved into a magnet for AI and technology companies, research institutions, and futurefocused entrepreneurs. At the heart of this movement is Lake Nona, a 17-square-mile master-planned community that blends urban innovation with lifestyle-first living Today, that vision is turning into one of the most compelling growth stories in the Southeast Lake Nona’s Expanding AI and Tech Landscape Lake Nona is no longer just a model for connected infrastructure it is becoming a national leader in AIdriven innovation A wave of high-growth startups and established tech firms have planted roots in and around the area Notable AI and tech companies in or near Lake Nona include:
Verge HealthTech – AI-powered global healthtech accelerator
IQONIC AI – AI for speech, voice interfaces, and edge processing
Limbitless Solutions – Bionics company using AI to power 3D-printed prosthetics
SimInsights – AI-driven VR/AR simulations for defense, aviation, and healthcare
SophyAI – AI for hospitality, retail, and smart environments
Neocis – AI-enhanced robotic dental surgery platforms
DeepWork Capital – Orlando-based venture firm investing in emerging AI and deep tech
ZeroTrusted ai – Located just minutes from Lake Nona in Kissimmee, ZeroTrusted ai develops advanced AI security and reliability platforms for federal, defense, and enterprise use
Together, these companies are transforming the region into an innovation corridor at the forefront of ethical, applied, and secure AI development
Why Executives and Tech Talent Are Heading to Lake Nona
The growing number of AI companies is only one reason executives and technologists are flocking to the region. Lake Nona’s appeal lies in its rare combination of modern infrastructure, strategic location, cost advantages, and unparalleled quality of life It’s a place where a top-tier developer can finish building a machine learning model in the morning, hop on a bike for lunch, and be walking through a Star Wars attraction at Disney or Mario Kart at Universal Studios by evening.
Executives are drawn to the area not only for its innovation ecosystem but for the stability and comfort it provides their families and teams With proximity to NASA Kennedy Space Center, the Atlantic coast, and the expanding Brightline rail service, Lake Nona offers both excitement and connectivity Florida’s businessfriendly climate, including no state income tax and a low regulatory burden, adds even more appeal to relocating professionals looking to launch or scale ventures in a growth-first environment
Beyond entertainment, Lake Nona is home to worldclass healthcare, top-rated schools, and a growing number of luxury communities The region is actively building smart neighborhoods with autonomous shuttles, gigabit fiber, and community hubs designed for innovation, wellness, and collaboration
For entrepreneurs, engineers, and enterprise leaders, the message is clear: the future of AI isn’t just conceptual it’s operational, and it’s being built in and around Lake Nona.
TRAVEL THE WORLD WITH THESE LOCAL HIDDEN FOOD SPOTS
BY ELLIENASRALLAH
Are you looking to try new food from different cultures? From ice cream to coffee to pho, these local small businesses will help you explore Central Florida and give you the next best hangout spot!
Blackbird Comics & Coffeehouse
With a drink and sandwich menu, comic books, records, and board games that you can rent and play with friends, Blackbird Comics will be your next hangout spot! This local mom-and-pop is one of the coziest hangout spots in Central Florida, so grab a coffee and play some Catan! Support this mom-and-pop and indulge in paninis and their signature latte with sriracha and chocolate! Who needs a New York coffeehouse?
Twenty-Pho Hour
Visit America’s first 2D noodle bar! Enjoy a great ambiance that is photo-worthy, and also get some fantastic food to match With great appetizers and their iconic pho bowls, you’ll have some of the best comfort food While they aren’t operating 24 hours a day, they’re open until 3 a.m. on Thursday - Saturday!
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Samapaguita Ice Cream
Currently under a soft opening, this ice cream shop specializes in flavors from the Philippines. Try halo-halo or an ice cream tray ranging from flavors of ube to soy sauce butterscotch to pineapple cake!
Wafu
Specializing in Taiyaki waffles and soft serve, this spot has the best snack options! With rotating soft-serve flavors ranging from ube to rose to honey, you’ll want to come back every week to try the next flavor! Since their Taiyaki waffles can be sweet or savory, you can have a kimchi melt waffle for lunch and a custard cream waffle for dessert!
Hanalei Shave Ice
Want an authentic taste of Hawaii? You may miss it, as Hanalei Shave Ice is in the backyard of the House of Lang! You’ll have to head to her Instagram at @hanaleishaveice to see her hours, but you’ll want to go! With all-natural ingredients, Hanalei features various flavors of Shave ice like lychee lilikoi and fresh strawberry!
El Burro Loco
While El Burro Loco used to be a food truck, this location now has a restaurant Located right off I-Drive, you’ll get some of the best Birria tacos you’ve ever had, with options like Birria quesadillas and crunchy Birria rollers!
Chicken Fire
Get some Nashville-style chicken right in Orlando! At Chicken Fire, you’ll get giant tenders ranging from soulful to straight LAVA They know they’re hot stuff with their heat challenge, and this soul food may have your soul leaving you if you get too much spice! Order what you can handle because they are very generous with their servings, and you’ll want to eat it all!
Chi-kin
With eight different scratch-made sauce options, this spot has a variety of ways to indulge in Korean fried chicken! Their gochujang comes regular, sweet, or hot and is the perfect accent to a crispy wing or tender! Don’t miss out on their kimchi fries, Bimbi bowls, and vegan and vegetarian options!
These small business food spots will introduce you to all new foods and cultures You’ll feel as if you have traveled the world without leaving Florida!
PhotocourtesyofElBurroLoco
SUNNY ESCAPES: THE BEST FLORIDA ROAD TRIPS TO TAKE THIS SUMMER FROM ORLANDO
BY CENTRALFLORIDALIFESTYLESTAFF
With sparkling coastlines, lush springs, quirky small towns, and vibrant cities all within a few hours' drive of Orlando, there’s no excuse not to explore Buckle up, pack some snacks, and crank the playlist here are the best Florida road trips to take this summer.
1. St. Augustine – Where History Meets Coastal Vibes
Drive Time from Orlando: ~1 hour 45 minutes
The nation's oldest city is a charming mix of cobblestone streets, Spanish colonial architecture, and ocean breeze St Augustine offers a perfect blend of history and beachy relaxation.
Must-Do Activities:
Explore the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fortress with stunning water views
Stroll down St George Street for boutique shopping and local eats.
Cool off at Anastasia State Park a hidden gem with hiking trails, calm beaches, and kayak rentals
Hidden Gem:
The Pirate & Treasure Museum – It’s fun, a little kitschy, and surprisingly fascinating for all ages
2. Crystal River – The Manatee Capital
Drive Time from Orlando: ~1 hour 45 minutes
If swimming with gentle sea cows is on your bucket list, Crystal River is the place to be It’s one of the few places in the U S where you can legally swim with manatees in their natural habitat.
Must-Do Activities:
Book a manatee snorkeling tour (go early for the best chance to spot them)
Paddle the serene waters of Three Sisters Springs
Grab a bite at a dockside restaurant like Crackers Bar & Grill
Hidden Gem:
Peck’s Old Port Cove – This low-key seafood joint is worth the detour for fresh oysters and unbeatable sunset views
3. Mount Dora – Small Town, Big Personality
Drive Time from Orlando: 45 minutes
Mount Dora is a quick getaway with a historic downtown, antique shops, and lakeside views that make you feel worlds away
Must-Do Activities:
Wander through Renninger’s Antique Center
Take a boat tour on Lake Dora at golden hour
Indulge in homemade treats from Cupcake Delights
Hidden Gem:
Mount Dora Modernism Museum – A tiny but wellcurated stop for mid-century design lovers
4. Sanibel Island – Seashell Heaven
Drive Time from Orlando: ~3 hours 30 minutes
For laid-back island vibes and some of the best shelling in the world, Sanibel is a tropical treasure without needing a passport
Must-Do Activities:
Go shell hunting on Bowman’s Beach
Visit the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge for wildlife watching Bike around the island it’s flat, scenic, and the best way to explore.
Hidden Gem:
Blind Pass Beach – Less crowded and known for epic shelling, especially at low tide
5. Apalachicola – Old Florida at Its Finest
Drive Time from Orlando: 5 hours 30 minutes
This underrated Gulf Coast town feels like a step back in time Think historic inns, friendly locals, and worldfamous oysters
Must-Do Activities:
Walk along the working waterfront and watch fishing boats come in
Try oysters every way imaginable at Up the Creek
Raw Bar
Pop into quirky local shops on Market Street
Hidden Gem:
Gibson Inn – A restored historic inn with a wrap-around porch perfect for people-watching
6. The Florida Keys – Tropical Road Trip Royalty
Drive Time from Orlando to Key Largo: 5 hours; Orlando to Key West: 7 hours 30 minutes
It doesn’t get more iconic than a road trip down the Overseas Highway With 42 bridges and endless blue water, the drive is just as much a part of the adventure
Must-Do Activities:
Stop at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for snorkeling
Feed tarpon at Robbie’s Marina in Islamorada
Explore Key West’s Duval Street, then catch the sunset at Mallory Square
Hidden Gem:
Bahia Honda State Park – A slice of paradise for swimming, snorkeling, or just swinging in a hammock
Tips for a Florida Road Trip Done Right:
Start early to beat the heat and avoid afternoon storms
Don’t forget sunscreen, bug spray, and refillable water bottles
Download offline maps cell service can be spotty in rural or coastal areas
Hit a roadside citrus stand for fresh juice or a bag of Florida oranges!
Whether you’re craving beach days, historic charm, or off-the-beaten-path adventures, these Florida road trips from Orlando promise memories that outshine even the brightest summer sun So gas up, grab your shades, and let the sunshine state show you what summer dreams are made of
SanibelIsland
TIKI EVENT LAUNCHES SUMMER LIFESTYLE EVENTS AT TIKI EVENT LAUNCHES SUMMER LIFESTYLE EVENTS AT OVERTURE DR. PHILLIPS OVERTURE DR. PHILLIPS
BYMELISSADONOVAN
Overture Dr Phillips recently hosted its summer Tiki Event, bringing residents together for an afternoon of food, music, and social connection The event was organized in collaboration with vendor partner WellCare, who provided a taco bar and DJ entertainment Additional offerings included appetizers and tropical refreshments
The event is part of the community’s broader summer lifestyle events aimed at encouraging physical, social, and mental engagement among adults 55 and older Research consistently shows that staying active and connected supports overall well-being, particularly later in life
Overture Dr. Phillips offers a structured calendar through its Live Here | Live Well active adult lifestyle program This initiative includes fitness classes, social hours, educational opportunities, and coordinated services designed to support a balanced lifestyle
Regular offerings include:
Daily events and fitness classes
Social hours
Community breakfasts
Home health referrals
Offsite trips and tours
Upcoming Events
Watermelon Bar
Monday, August 4 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Residents and prospective residents are invited to enjoy fresh watermelon Tours of the community will be available
RSVP by July 21, 2025
Tea and Muffins
Friday, August 8 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
An opportunity for guests to learn more about the community while enjoying light refreshments.
RSVP by July 21, 2025
For more information about events or to schedule a visit, contact Overture Dr. Phillips directly.
PhotobyMichelleBorrero
PhotobyMichelleBorrero
