HIMSS17 Visitor's Guide

Galen is excited that you're coming to Orlando for #HIMSS17! Our Consultants have traveled the country, and they have put together some of their favorite things to do and see in Orlando. At Galen, we strongly believe in sharing our success and giving back to our community. One of our driving tenets is “Perpetually Learn and Share”. Furthermore, we foster a collaborative environment where this experience and knowledge is communicated to the entire team. This has been instrumental to our success and ensures that, when working with a Galen team member, our partners gain full access to the resources that define our organization.

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Places to See (at Disney)

To Note: Disney provides exclusive afternoon tickets and special discounted multi-day tickets to meeting & convention groups. The cut-off date for advance purchase savings is February 18, 2017. More Information

Disney Springs - a themed retail, dining and entertainment center inspired by Florida's charming waterfront towns, historic architecture and natural beauty. With over 150 different stores, restaurants and entertainment venues planned, Disney Springs is one of the most exciting destinations of its kind in Central Florida. [[1]]

Disney's Boardwalk - Experience the timeless charm of this quarter-mile promenade, featuring exquisite dining, unique shops and exciting nightlife. Just a short stroll to Epcot and a breezy boat ride to Disney’s Hollywood Studios! [[2]]

Blizzard Beach - A one-time ski resort that has melted into a watery wonderland, that's frosty fun for the whole family! Take a zip down one of the world’s tallest and fastest waterslides, Mount Gushmore, or float down the tranquil river--there's something for everyone! [[3]]

And if mouse ears aren’t your thing

Showcase of Citrus - Florida is the orange state after all! This family owned and operated Estate cultivates over 70 varieties of citrus and is located just 15 minutes from Disney World. It’s an adventure off the beaten path known for its World Famous 100% Natural Orange Juice Slushy and its Creamsicle! [[4]]

Gatorland - Billed as the "Alligator Capital of the World," Gatorland features thousands of alligators and crocodiles, a breeding marsh with boardwalk and observation tower, reptile shows, aviary, petting zoo, swamp walk and educational programs. The Breeding Marsh area of the park was used in the filming of the 1984 movie Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom! [[5]]

Universal CityWalk - a three-block entertainment, dining, shopping promenade, located adjacent to the theme parks of Universal Parks & Resorts. It has more than 30 places to eat, a 19-screen movie theater featuring Imax, seven night spots, indoor skydiving and more than 30 stores.

Grab a Bite

Cask & Larder - Since the waning days of Prohibition, generations of thirsty, hungry people have found their way here seeking good food, good drink, and good company. They offer southern-sourced seasonal dishes, craft beers brewed on-site and fresh-shucked oysters from their oyster bar. [[6]]

Hanamizuki - Nestled in a hidden location off International Drive, this traditional Japanese spot serves up sushi in a modern setting. [[7]]

Victoria & Albert’s - The ultimate in fine dining at Walt Disney World® Resort, features Modern American cuisine with exquisite products sourced from around the world. Recipient of AAA’s highest achievement, the Five Diamond Award, “Forbes Travel Guide” Four Star rating and glowing reviews from Zagat and others! [[8]]

Yachtsman Steakhouse - Within the airy dining room’s knotty-pine beams and nautical touches, mouthwatering cuisine awaits! Savor premium steaks, fresh seafood and more at this family-friendly, New England-style steakhouse, located in Disney’s Epcot Resort Area. [[9]]

Beaches & Cream - Revel in the nostalgia of the Atlantic seashore at this boardwalk-style ice cream shop where every day is sundae. Good times and great eats are a "shore" thing at this old-fashioned soda fountain also featuring American grill favorites, located in Disney’s Epcot Resort Area. [[10]]

The Crystal Palace - Feast with some favorite friends from the Hundred-Acre Woods at this whimsical, enchanting spot. Features bountiful buffets with American favorites prepared before you in the onstage kitchen. [[11]]

Watering Holes

The Courtesy - Smack in the middle of downtown is a small, friendly bar that feels like it should be in Colorado instead of Orlando. Explain what your taste buds prefer, and the bartender will come up with just the right drink! [[12]]

Pat O'Brien's - home of the world-famous Hurricane® drink and the "Flaming Fountain™" patio, a picturesque courtyard that will have you believing you're in the middle of Bourbon Street, located in Universal Orlando. [[13]]

Jellyrolls - Let the good times roll at this lively piano bar for Guests 21+, with dueling pianos and audience sing-alongs. Located on Disney's Boardwalk, this is one of the hottest nightspots in the Orlando area, so be advised, seats fill up fast! [[14]]

Getting Around

To Note: HIMSS will provide complimentary shuttles to/from our official conference hotels to the Orange County Convention Center. Download the shuttle schedule here

I-Ride Trolley - In the International Drive Resort Area? This unique, cost-saving amenity takes the parking and driving hassles out of your vacation and lets you cruise the Drive in charming style. [[15]]

SunRail - Looking for an easy way to get around Central Florida? SunRail connects twelve stations through three different counties. With free wifi & easy ticket purchasing, this commuter rail line is a convenient and enjoyable travel option. [[16]]

Juice Bike Share - Gives you access to hundreds of bikes in over 30 locations throughout Orlando, available 24/7. Find and reserve a bike using their mobile app, on the web at app.socialbicycles.com, or at the bike using its keypad.

LYMMO/ LYNX - a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service. Basically a “rail like” service using rubber tired vehicles. Buses operate in their own right of way providing a non-congested route downtown to major destinations. [[17]]

Productive Down Time

Orlando Brewing Company - Thirsty travelers looking to unwind while working can quench themselves with the free Wi-Fi and smooth draughts [[18]]

East End Market - The epicenter of Orlando’s farm-to-table food movement, offers travelers a relaxing hometown environment to catch up on some work, with their free wifi, while escaping the bustle of the city [[19]]