Orlando

Epcot, the second theme park at Walt Disney World Resort in Bay Lake, near Orlando, Florida, opened on October 1, 1982. This theme park is dedicated to the celebration of human achievement, namely technological innovation and international culture, and is often referred to as a permanent world's fair. Epcot stands for Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, a utopian city concept developed by Walt Disney in the 1960s.

On October 9, 1986, the first commercial satellite launch from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station occurred. This event marked a significant shift in the use of the United States' premier launch complex, accommodating commercial satellite launches in addition to government and military ones. The payload was a satellite for RCA Americom and was launched aboard a Delta rocket.

In 1998, the significant expansion of the Orlando International Airport was completed with the opening of the new terminal. This terminal increased the airport's capacity dramatically, allowing it to accommodate the rapidly growing number of tourists and business travelers. The expansion included new gates, modernized facilities, and improved infrastructure, solidifying Orlando International Airport's position as a major hub in the southeastern United States.

Hurricane Charley made landfall in Florida on August 13, 2004, causing widespread damage in Orlando and surrounding areas. As one of the most intense hurricanes to hit the United States since Hurricane Andrew in 1992, Charley brought winds of 150 mph, devastating infrastructure, and resulting in high economic losses. In Orlando, Charley uprooted trees, damaged buildings, and left thousands without power.

In 2009, the Orlando Magic basketball team reached the NBA Finals, facing the Los Angeles Lakers. Although the Magic were ultimately defeated in the series, their achievement marked a high point in the team's history and energized the local fanbase. This memorable season featured outstanding performances by star player Dwight Howard, helping to cement the Magic’s prominence in the NBA.

On October 14, 2010, the federal government approved funding and plans for SunRail, a commuter rail system in Central Florida designed to alleviate congestion on Interstate 4. The approval marked a critical step in addressing public transportation needs in the rapidly growing Orlando metropolitan area. Construction began in 2012, with the first phase opening to passengers in 2014.

Although not directly related to Orlando, the opening of the One World Observatory, the public observation deck atop One World Trade Center in New York City, was a much-anticipated event with nationwide significance. It symbolized resilience and rebirth following the World Trade Center attacks in 2001.

On June 12, 2016, a mass shooting occurred at the Pulse nightclub, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. This tragic event resulted in the deaths of 49 people, becoming the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history as well as the deadliest terrorist attack in the U.S. since September 11, 2001. The event drew international attention and led to widespread calls for gun control reform.

Universal’s Volcano Bay is a themed water park at Universal Orlando Resort in Orlando, Florida. Opened on May 25, 2017, it became the third park at Universal Orlando Resort, featuring innovative attractions and advanced technology that eliminates long lines. The park’s centerpiece is the towering Krakatau, a 200-foot-tall artificial volcano, reflecting a tropical theme throughout the park.

The Orlando City Soccer Stadium, also known as Exploria Stadium, officially opened and became the home of Orlando City SC. As part of the Major League Soccer franchise, the stadium provides an intimate and electrifying atmosphere for fans, featuring a safe-standing supporter section and a canopy roof to enhance acoustics. The opening was a significant milestone for the Orlando sports community.

The Mars 2020 mission, featuring the Perseverance rover, was launched from Cape Canaveral, near Orlando, on July 30, 2020. The mission aims to search for signs of past life on Mars and collect rock and soil samples for potential return to Earth. The launch was a key moment for NASA and space exploration, linking Orlando to one of the most ambitious extraterrestrial missions in recent history.

A tragic accident occurred on the Orlando FreeFall, a drop tower ride at ICON Park in Orlando, resulting in the death of a teenage visitor. The incident prompted investigations into ride safety, sparking discussions on safety regulations and enforcement for amusement park attractions. This event highlighted the importance of safety in the amusement park industry in Orlando, a major hub for tourism and entertainment.