ORLANDO, Fla. — Central Florida is seeing a steady increase in interest in its world-renowned attractions during the pandemic, tourism experts say.

Although the area is not getting the U.S. and international travelers is once did, local residents are making up some of the difference, at least at ICON Park.

At first glance, it may look like Santa Claus is sitting right next to children as they tell him what they'd like for Christmas, but the park has installed Plexiglas to separate them as a coronavirus safety precaution.

"We've been coming to see Santa as a group for a lot of years," said Renee Bobbitt, who was visiting from Brevard County on Friday.

Bobbitt and her kids, alongside friends, were worried they wouldn't be able to continue their tradition this year. But, she felt more comfortable after seeing what the park is doing to still allow kids to meet Santa.

"I was convinced, and felt really safe, and glad to bring the family today," Bobbitt said.

Her group is taking advantage of local attractions during the pandemic, and ICON Park CEO Chris Jaskiewicz tells Spectrum News that they’re not alone — he says the entertainment complex is seeing 90% Florida guests over the past few months, compared with 50% pre-pandemic.

"We're focusing on the Central Floridians, because there are a lot of people here, and they're looking for things to do," Jaskiewicz said.

ICON Park’s "The Wheel," a huge observation wheel, is also drawing visitors looking to catch great views of Central Florida’s skyline.

"Every Saturday, for the past 14 Saturdays, our attendance on The Wheel has been higher than the prior year Saturdays," Jaskiewicz said.

Dr. Robertico Croes, a professor with the University of Central Florida Rosen College of Hospitality Management, said what's happening at ICON Park aligns with his local expectation.

"It is a glimpse of hope," Croes said. "It's a light at the end of the tunnel. What gives it more hope (is) I'm seeing a steady increase of demand."

Jaskiewicz said safety is his park’s top priority, and he’s optimistic for a tourism rebound in the vacation capital of the world.

He said the park has expansion projects moving forward despite the pandemic: A new arcade, the Drop Tower and Slingshot, a museum of illusions, and renovations in The Wheel House.

Croes said after the U.S. turns a corner with a COVID-19 vaccine becoming widely available, he expects Central Florida tourism levels to be close to pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2021.