here’s some debate about how the city of Orlando got its name, but official accounts credit Orlando Reeves, a U.S. soldier who was killed in 1835 by a Native American’s arrow while on sentinel duty at what now is Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando.

Today, the Orlando area is a popular vacation and convention destination, offering more than 80 attractions. Topping the list are major theme parks such as Walt Disney World, Epcot Center, Disney-MGM Studios, Universal Studios and SeaWorld. Another favorite destination of visiting pool/spa professionals is Church Street Station, a downtown complex featuring restaurants, clubs and shops. Or check out the many dinner theaters such as Pirate’s Dinner Adventure on I-Drive or Sleuth’s Mystery Dinner Show on nearby Universal Dr.; MurderWatch in Lake Buena Vista; and Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, Capone’s Dinner & Show, and Arabian Nights, all in Kissimmee.

For outdoor recreation, try one of the 125 area golf courses; more than 800 tennis courts; and more than 300 lakes, springs and rivers. Waterparks abound in the Orlando area, such as Blizzard Beach, River Country, Typhoon Lagoon, Water Mania and Wet ‘n Wild.

Shoppers will be drawn toward The Mercado, Pointe Orlando, Park Avenue, Downtown Disney, and various malls and outlet stores. Making a vacation of it? Early-aviation buffs can head for Fantasy of Flight in Polk City, while those with an interest in outer space will go for Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex at Cape Canaveral. Day trips for nature lovers could include Cypress Gardens or Busch Gardens — or maybe a walk on the East and West coast beaches, within an hour or two of Orlando.

For more information about the city, call the Orlando/Orange County Convention & Visitors Bureau (407) 354-5586; or visit their Web site www.go2orlando.com.