SPIE Defense and Commercial Sensing (DCS) in Orlando, Fla., is fast approaching. Attendees will soon discover how today’s high-tech world is reinventing warfare with the most advanced tools for soldiers and others in the defense and security landscape. And the onset of new technologies is also advancing the environmental, cyber and health care segments. At DCS, such advancement takes center stage. To be held this year at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Orlando, Fla., April 15-19, this global conference and exhibition presents leading technical conferences, courses and demonstrations on sensors, optics, imaging, lasers and related areas for defense, security, industry, health care and the environment. And during the exhibition, the latest technical advancements are presented in sensors, infrared technology, laser systems, spectral imaging, radar, lidar and others. But Orlando offers much more outside of the Gaylord convention center, and it’s waiting for you to explore. Known as the theme park capital of the world, this city is home to Walt Disney World, Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Magic Kingdom, as well as the Universal Orlando theme parks, Sea World and Legoland. Avatar fans can enter the world of mythical Pandora at Animal Kingdom. Canoe rides take visitors through the Na’vi River, and walks through a land of floating mountains provides even more excitement. Animal Kingdom also offers Animal Adventures After Dark — among its attractions are the Kilimanjaro Safaris that feature enhanced lighting and new African wild dog and hyena exhibits. Disney World’s Disney Springs offers unique dining and shopping options, in addition to its long-beloved attractions and characters. Sea World brings visitors up close to a variety of animals and deep sea creatures — dolphins, seals, a plethora of fish species and more. It’s also home to the region’s tallest, fastest, longest roller coaster: Mako, named for one of the ocean’s fastest sharks. It measures 200 feet tall, reaches speeds of up to 73 mph and glides along nearly 5000 feet of track. And now, a virtual roller coaster offers new thrills. The Kraken coaster takes riders through a virtual deep sea alongside legendary creatures. Discovery Cove and places including Gatorland bring visitors up close and personal to many animals and sea creatures. At Universal Orlando, attractions such as the new Volcano Bay waterpark combine the thrills of a traditional water park with relaxation through the water. Excitement awaits with the Skull Island: Reign of Kong ride, a 3D experience that brings visitors through an expedition toward the legendary beast King Kong. Legoland is another immersive attraction that brings a world of imagination to life. It added Ninjago World in 2017, which tests visitors’ bravery. This interactive experience dares them to test their ninja skills with numerous challenges. Discount tickets to all of these attractions and more are available to DCS attendees. The Florida Film Festival this year coincides, in part, with DCS. Now in its 27th year, this festival is touted an Oscar-qualifying event that premieres some of the best films, from independent movies and documentaries to animated features. The festival this year will feature talks with actresses Pam Grier and Ellen Burstyn. And each year, it attracts some other big Hollywood names, including Jason Bateman, Jon Voight and Glenn Close. This city is home to some of the world’s best restaurants and shopping, as well. The Mall at Millenia and the Florida Mall, in addition to outlet centers such as the Orlando Premium Outlets’ International Drive, Vineland Avenue, and Lake Buena Vista Outlets are other shopping options. Among popular restaurants are Emeril’s Orlando and Mango’s Tropical Café. There are live music venues and wineries, too, as well as spa resorts, outdoor recreation activities, and fine arts museums and science centers. A little something for everyone! For more information about everything Orlando has to offer, visit www.visitorlando.com.