Broadway Ave, Lake Eola Heights

This road runs east-west through Orlando and really gives the tourist/traveler a lot of different choices for lodging and dining. One end is close to the beautiful Waterford Lakes shopping complex and the University of Central Florida. The other direction will put you closer to the them park area of Orlando. There is also a large selection of shopping centers and free-standing stores on this road as well, if you are not into the extremely large shopping complexes such as Waterford Lakes. Beware though, as with many streets, there are nicer parts, and there are sketchier parts, both which are easily detectable by simply keeping your eyes open. For the most part, this area is great for finding something to do or grabbing a bite to eat.

The street is under major construction and there is always traffic. It’s a pretty congested road since it runs right through downtown Orlando. There are however, lots and lots of restaurants and shops. Some sections of colonial are better areas than others. Some spots can get a little sketchy, but over by Fashion square in Winter Park, the area is nice with plenty of spots to eat. I wouldn’t stay on this road, but it’s a great spot to do some shopping or grab dinner. If you’re looking to take this road into downtown Orlando, jump on I-4 instead, Colonial has way too many lights and slow, bad drivers.

Colonial Drive (also known as State Road 50) runs the entire length east-west through Orlando. From near UCF in the east (with easy access to Waterford Lakes), through Winter Park (lots of shopping, plus a decent size mall, Fashion Square), then through Downtown and out past the fairgrounds (the fair is coming up soon, check it out). I enjoy coming to the little viet district around Mills Avenue for Dim-Sum occasionally.