Orlando

Orlando is a city in the central region of the U.S. state of Florida and is home to more than 270,000 people according to the 2018 US Census Bureau estimates. It is also part of Orange County and lies along Interstate 4 near its junction with Interstate 95 (the East-West Expressway). Orlando serves as an important hub for tourism in Florida due to its close proximity to major theme parks including Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios Florida and SeaWorld Orlando among others.

The area’s first permanent settlers arrived during 1838 when Fort Gatlin was built by United States Army troops led by Lieutenant Colonel Alexander C. W. Fanning on behalf of President Martin Van Buren’s administration; it later served as a base for operations against Seminole Indians from 1835–1858 before eventually becoming abandoned following their defeat in battle at Lake Eola Park . The settlement that grew out around this military installation would become known as “Jernigan”, named after Aaron Jernigan who had been granted 100 acres nearby under Spanish land grants – but only officially changed its name to ‘Orlando’ upon incorporation into Orange County during December 25th, 1875 following his death earlier that year .

During early 20th century decades prior WWII , economic development within the town began picking up steam thanks largely towards local citrus industry which saw its stature rise exponentially throughout period ; while much smaller scale compared other regions like Tampa Bay Area or Miami , orange juice production became popularized concept leading formation several businesses related topic source income many residents time frame . From here growth continued until present day where commercial district downtown now features numerous high rises housing corporate offices banks insurance providers such retail establishments make up vast majority commerce seen today making one largest cities both county Central Florida overall population wise .

On cultural side municipality remains quite vibrant despite being mostly residential suburb original location metropolitan area hosting number yearly events festivals open public run between March October dates each year ranging from food truck gatherings art shows concerts music performances historical reenactments sporting activities alike some most notable include Come Out With Pride Orlando Fringe Festival Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival International Gay Lesbian Film Festivals amongst others all these help provide locals visitors alike great opportunity experience what has offer welcoming atmosphere anyone regardless background orientation beliefs etc enjoy themselves safe environment without worry discrimination judgement based solely off those factors alone making truly unique destination visit worth checking out if have chance do so !