Orlando is the world’s go-to vacation destination, but those of us who reside here can sometimes lose sight of that fact as we get caught up in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives. After all, between incredible resorts, five-star dining options, easy access to beaches, year-round sun and other selling points, there’s more to the City Beautiful than the theme parks—which are pretty amazing in their own right. To help us remember just how much our hometown has to offer, we spoke with George Aguel, president & CEO of Visit Orlando, the region’s official tourism association, who makes a strong argument as to why locals don’t need to leave town to have a great vacation.

ORLANDO FAMILY MAGAZINE: More than 60 million people come to Orlando annually, making it America’s most visited destination. What are some compelling reasons for area residents to opt for a “staycation” over a traditional vacation when they have time off?

GEORGE AGUEL: Locals have a strong advantage—the theme-park capital of the world is located right in their backyard. This year, the parks are all unveiling new major attractions, including Frozen Ever After at Epcot, Skull Island: Reign of Kong at Universal Orlando Resort and Mako at SeaWorld Orlando, providing an even stronger reason for locals to spend time in their own community this year.

OFM: Theme parks are definitely a key part of Orlando’s culture. What are the best times of year for local families to take advantage of everything the parks have to offer?

GA: Orlando is attractive to visitors at almost all times of the year, but locals will often find some of the best values and fewer crowds in the months of May and September. And there are many other opportunities where they have the benefit of making choices with less advance planning.

OFM: Any tips for residents on getting great prices for theme-park tickets?

GA: Visit Orlando offers discounts from some of the area’s most popular theme parks, including SeaWorld Orlando, Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World Resort and Legoland Florida Resort. At VisitOrlando.com/Deals, guests can find even more savings on hotels, attractions, restaurants, shopping and beyond.

OFM: We also have a lot of world-class hotels in Greater Orlando. For locals who want to get away without actually leaving town, what are the best times to get discounted rates?

GA: In late spring and early fall, locals may find increased savings. For example, from April 25 through June 15 at VisitOrlando.com, Florida residents can find exclusive offers on everything from hotel stays and attractions to entertainment and dining.

OFM: Nobody likes to cook when they’re on vacation. Can you walk us through some of the best dining options in Orlando, both budget-minded and sky’s-the-limit?

GA: Orlando provides dining options that are both diverse and well regarded. The new Disney Springs area features popular celebrity chef-driven eatery Morimoto Asia and uniquely themed restaurants like The Boathouse. Those looking for an extravagant night out can dine while watching the fireworks at places like California Grill and Capa at the Four Seasons Resort. Locals looking to experience some of the area’s top cuisine at a great price will want to mark their calendars for Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month in September, when they can experience three-course meals for $33 at over 70 of our finest restaurants.

OFM: For many people, taking a vacation is a chance to experience different cultures. What are some unique cultures that can be experienced right here in Orlando?

GA: A great way to experience different cultures is through their cuisines. Locals who may not spend much time in the tourism corridor may be surprised to learn of the wide range of cuisines offered all along International Drive—everything from Ethiopian and Brazilian to Japanese and Russian.

OFM: What are some of the most interesting, off-the-beaten-path attractions that Orlando has to offer, either free or paid?

GA: Beyond Orlando’s world-class theme parks and rollercoasters, there are a wide range of eco-tours and experiences that offer a new perspective of the destination. Thrill seekers can opt to zoom through treetops on a zip line or hang-glide over orange groves. More moderate adventurers may bike or hike on several of the area’s well-kept trails, like the Lake Apopka Loop Trail. Peaceful paddle boarding or kayaking on one of Orlando’s gorgeous lakes, or snorkeling with manatees, also offer more temperate experiences.

OFM: How about sports and fitness fanatics—what will they find to do in Orlando?

GA: It’s an exciting time for sports fans in Orlando. Arguably the most famous sports team in the destination, the Orlando Magic, offers fans a state-of-the-art environment to enjoy the games. Orlando City Soccer Club thrilled fans with their first season at the Citrus Bowl last year and are preparing to move into a brand-new stadium. The Orlando Pride, a new professional women’s soccer team, debuts this year as well. Orlando is also unique with its multifaceted connections to the game of golf, offering more than 150 golf course options, many from celebrated course designers and some featuring academies helmed by nationally recognized instructors.

OFM: Visit Orlando offers a number of free services for people vacationing in Orlando, including a vacation-planning kit, visitor guides, Visit Orlando’s Official Visitor Center and more. How can these tools help locals discover their own city?

GA: Visit Orlando is the trusted source for information on things to do in Orlando. Through offering visitor guides highlighting mainstream attractions to lesser known options, there is a lot to be discovered. In addition to our website, Visit Orlando.com, we have travel counselors available both by phone and online to provide personal assistance. Visitors may also connect with us on social media to stay up-to-date on the latest news in Orlando.

OFM: Any other insider tips for local staycationers?

GA: While Orlando has so many places to pack in the fun during a staycation, don’t overlook the amenities designed for relaxation at our world-class resorts. Expansive pools that are kid-friendly or created with adults in mind offer locals and visitors unique settings to relax and unwind. After all, a staycation should still be a vacation.