History of Orlando, Florida

150 years ago, Orlando was actually cattle raising country. The railroad helped to expand central Florida's citrus industry, dramatically changing the look and feel of this area. This quiet farm town gradually grew, weathered the Great Depression, and was thrust into the national spotlight with the opening of Disney World in 1971. Today, Orlando is the number one tourist destination in the world, with seven major theme parks and countless other attractions and amenities. Still the city of Orlando itself has maintained a less commercial and more welcoming atmosphere, and those cattle rustling days are long gone. Instead you will find high rises, upscale shops and restaurants and plenty to do and see as a visitor. Plus, vacation rentals are abundant and the choices are innumerable. It is estimated that anywhere from 25 to 40 million people eagerly visit Orlando each year. One thing that has never changed in all its years of growth and change: that good Florida sunshine. That is what draws you here in the first place, and the abundance of all that is good is what will keep you coming back to Orlando year after year.