Church Street Station, Orlando

Constructed in 1889, Church Street Station is also known as the Old Orlando Railroad Depot. The South Florida Railroad, which connected Orlando and Tampa to the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad, served this station. The railroad was the work of Henry B. Plant, and it brought tourists from up north who developed the area. Church Street Station was Orlando's central train hub until 1926 when traffic was moved to what is now the Orlando Health/Amtrak Station. In the 1970s, the building and property were purchased to turn the area into an entertainment center.

During the 1970s and 80s, the station served as a nightclub complex, where you could club hop through different themed clubs for one admission price. At one time, it was the fourth biggest attraction in Florida. It's success led Disney to create Pleasure Island, which became part of Downtown Disney, and Universal to create City Walk. Among the many attractions were an old west saloon and opera house.

After some crazy turns of events that involved possible ghost sightings and FBI raids, and historic locomotives, the property went through several revivals and declines. SunRail trains currently stop at the station here, and there is a New Orleans-style event venue. The Mad Cow Theater puts on performances to suit every taste and style. Nearby the Amway Center hosts the local NBA team, the Orlando Magic. There are numerous bars and restaurants nearby in what is known as the Church Street district.