45+ Fun Things to Do in Orlando, Florida
I finally had the chance to go visit Orlando for longer than a weekend, and it did not disappoint. I visited in February, when the weather is the best it can be. The whole time, I found myself saying “ugh, I would definitely move here.” But, in the summer it gets so hot and so humid that it definitely makes locals stay inside more then. I just found Orlando to be extremely walkable, especially depending on where you stay.
I got to stay with my best friend in the College Park area. It was seriously beautiful – safe, walkable, and charming. I know I visited in one of the “cooler” months, but it seemed like everyone was out and about! Every time I’ve visited Orlando in the past, we have typically stuck with just going to Disney. My best friend is a Disney employee, so obviously I’m going to take advantage of the free visits. And yes, we did do a Disney day during this trip, but I’m not mentioning it here.
This is strictly for things to do in the city of Orlando and surrounding areas. I found it a little difficult to find a good list, so obviously I’m making my own! As usual, I’m just simply listing ideas for you to add to your itinerary. We did all of these things in the course of 5 days, so if something looks like it matches your interest, then add it! At the end of most sections, I have included “Other” – these are places I had on my list but just didn’t have time to visit but will definitely do next time.
Vintage, Thrift & Antique Stores
Orange Tree Antiques Mall
This antique mall felt huge. There were so many different sections that each had their own unique style and finds. I’ve personally never been to a place where each vendor had their own spot in the store but I loved it. I know, I know, this is very common, but it made shopping easier.
I’m not one to buy a lot of things, but I could have easily spent all my money here. If I lived in Orlando, I would have definitely visited this place multiple times to decorate my house. SO much glassware, knickknacks, wall decor, and old electronics. They even have a massive record room basically hidden in the back!
Deja Vu Vintage Clothing & Accessories
Right down the road from Orange Tree is Deja Vu. The store owner was so nice!! A smaller, more curated store, Deja Vu had very high quality pieces. One of the nicer selections was of vintage purses and handbags. My friend even got the cutest little bag!
They also had clothing selections in more “standard” sizing, because if you know, you know. A lot of vintage clothing comes in teeny tiny sizing, which can make it difficult to shop sustainably. I loved the dedication to finding a range of options and the craft of vintage shopping. They had glassware, accessories, clothings, purses, and other small decorative items. Definitely check out Deja Vu and Orange Tree together while you’re over there.
The Owl’s Attic
Dare I say this was my favorite vintage shop we went to?! I just loved everything about the aesthetic of the store. Each section was perfectly curated, and like the others, it was separated by vendor. I felt like they had a wide range of products like clothing, slippers, hair clips, flowers, incense, and literally so much more.
If you’re looking for a good vibe and maybe find a seller who fits the things you look for, then definitely stop here! It is part of a strip mall and there are a few other places within walking distance that I list below.
Joybird Books
You have to find at least a little joy in a used bookstore. Books just feel like they’ve got a touch of the person who had them before. I know that’s how all antique or vintage pieces are, but books just feel different, right?!
You’ve got the children’s books that get passed down, the books about hobbies and self-help, or even just the classics that get passed on from generation to generation.
This bookstore had a piano, typewriters, and even local gifts or souvenirs. They also have tables outside to sit and read!
The Lovely Boutique Market
Surprisingly enough, I’ve never owned a proper suitcase. Well, thanks to The Lovely Boutique Market, I finally found the perfect one. It is the cutest, funky, yet girly, vintage 60s suitcase. And it was only about $40 and in perfect condition!! I can’t wait to finally feel like I’m the real deal as a travel blogger.
This space actually has a great mixture of all types of pieces. They’ve got furniture, clothing, accessories, travel pieces, and all kinds of old knickknacks to add to your collection. And it’s in the next strip mall down from the previous two, so you can easily walk over and just keep exploring.
Other:
Etoile
Located in the Milk District, you can grab a beer at Sideward Brewing Co., or grab a bite at Orlando Milkhouse, and go shop here!
Echoes of Retro
Located in the Ivanhoe/Mills 50 area, this store has vintage/antique furniture to browse if you’re a local and want pieces for your home!
Diversion
Also located in the Ivanhoe/Mills 50 area, this is a vintage clothing store. This is perfect if you’re walking along this street and grabbing food or getting a drink at the many bars/breweries.
Out of the Closet
If you’re looking to support a good cause while also shopping sustainability, make sure to hit up Out of the Closet. Its mission is a safe space for LGBTQIA+ and provides free HIV testing and a pharmacy at some locations. It’s a pretty large store in Orlando, and if I had more time, it was going to be my next stop because I loved that area of town!
Avalon Exchange
Located in Winter Park, the thrift/vintage scene is a little more elevated. Winter Park is definitely a nicer part of Orlando, and naturally, the clothing options will match that.
Goodwill Boutique
Ever heard of a Goodwill Boutique?? I definitely hadn’t, but I wish I had gone in! Also located in Winter Park, that’s why it has more brand name clothing and items. It’s definitely on the smaller side of the Goodwills I’ve seen, but you might get some good finds!
Drinks
Neon Beach
Looking for a good tiki bar? Look no further than downtown Orlando. Now, if you’re a local and it’s not technically “downtown” then I’m sorry. I’m doing my best with locations!
Neon Beach has high ceilings, palm tree decorations, and, you guessed it – bright colors and a beach vibe (okay, somewhat beachy). Their menu is what makes it have that beach feel. Full of fruity and frozen drinks, on a hot day (like it was that day), it really helps cool you down while turning you up. Ew, that was a rough sentence I’m sorry.
Anyway, since you’re in Florida but not at the beach, what better way to enjoy it than bringing the beach to you?
Game Room & Social Club
Next, for a QUICK change of scenery, head over to Game Room & Social Club. It’s a darker, more mysterious space. The bartender told us it used to be an Irish pub, which explains the dark colors and wood fixtures.
If you’re looking for a delicious craft cocktail or a more casual or serious happy hour, look no further. You can come here and catch up with friends or even play some of the games, like shuffleboard or checkers.
This is also known for being a sports bar, and they have multiple TVs that line the area behind the bar. If you’re looking for something nicer than your local dive bar, you can come here for drinks and watch a game. Since it’s downtown, it’s a great stop before or after checking out the surrounding bars and restaurants.
Cocktails & Screams
If you just need a little spooky night out, it’s Halloween all year here. With a creative menu full of themed drinks, Cocktails & Screams makes a normal night out more fun. Who doesn’t love a good themed bar?! Everywhere you look, you’ll find creepy decorations, like pictures on the wall that turn from normal to scary. Even the bathrooms have purple skulls for sinks.
I got a drink that had “smoke” coming from it, and it was really delicious too. You can definitely tell that the bartenders know what they’re doing. They are all dressed up in scary costumes, complete with blood or makeup to finish the look.
On the night we went, it was still pretty early, but a DJ came and played tons of old throwback songs (yes, even the SpongeBob theme song). Tons of people there were dressed up too, and you can tell this is a go-to spot for a lot of people.
Taco Kat (Vending Machine Bar)
I’m sorry, but I legitimately do not know if this place has a name, so I just call it the vending machine bar. Located in Taco Kat, it actually has its own entrance. To be clear, my friend was wearing shorts (a guy), and they said he wasn’t in the dress code. But, since we were the first people there, they let us in, because we weren’t planning on staying that long.
The “host” opened the vending machine, and you walk straight into a bar that was playing loud music, had dim lights, and yes, was very empty at 10:00pm. But, more room for us! I got an espresso martini in a small styrofoam cup, which was a first, but it definitely did the trick.
This place definitely had more of a “club” vibe, although it is definitely not a club. After a little while, it started to get more crowded and we left, but you can tell it definitely gets packed later at night. Just make sure you wear the right outfit!
Pour Choice Taphouse
I love how technology can upgrade a normal taproom experience. There is a place like this in Chattanooga, TN, and I always love visiting when I go there. Pour Choice Taphouse has a long row of DIY drafts. They simply connect your card with your wristband, and every time you get a drink you just tap it, select the drink, and pour.
This way you can sample lots of different drinks, or just make your own flight. You don’t have to wait on anyone else to get the drink, and it just makes trying different beer a lot more doable. If you’re a person who doesn’t know what kind of beer you like, this is the spot for you. They also had some wines and seltzers for people who don’t drink beer!
Here, they also have food trucks some days and games. We played beer pong for a while both inside and outside, and we were lucky enough to have the BEST authentic tacos which I will mention later. I’m a sucker for doing an activity while enjoying drinks, so being able to play games and do my own tastings of beer was the ideal duo.
Ivanhoe Park Brewing Company
I’m a believer that it’s always good to find a brewery you like that is spacious and convenient. With both indoor and outdoor seating, Ivanhoe Park Brewing Company was almost tucked away from the main road in this area. We went later on a Saturday, and they even had a giant projector playing an XFL (I had never heard of this, but yeah). Everyone was standing outside watching the game and chatting with people.
I had a nice stout to drink, and it was chillier out that night, so it wasn’t as crazy as drinking one in the sweltering heat. They also have snacks you can buy, but you can also check to see when they are doing food trucks! Disclaimer: sometimes I live too much in the moment and forget to take pictures, so please enjoy the picture above that I took from my car while driving past. I promise it looks a lot better both closer up and also in the evenings.
Hideaway Bar
I think I need to stop saying the kinds of places that I like, because it feels like I say it about everything. BUT, I love a dive bar too! So that makes themed bars, DIY taprooms, bars with activities, a solid brewery, and also dive bars. Basically, I’m not that picky. That’s why I always remind you to take everything I write with a grain of salt and through your own lens.
Hideaway Bar is also in the Ivanhoe/Mills 50 area, and it is a true dive bar. This was our last stop on Saturday night, and we just got a good ‘ole light beer and sat outside in the front. The inside was pretty small, but it was definitely packed. This is definitely a place where you’re going to see more of your locals.
This bar wasn’t trying to be fancy or look “aesthetically pleasing”, and it worked. I did see signs that they are moving across the street though, so I’m sure people are sad to see the OG spot move. If you’re looking for just a classic bar to get drinks and catch up with friends, definitely stop here.
The Wine Room on Park Avenue
I’ve never experienced wine like this, and I’m not complaining. Similar to Pour Choice Taphouse, this is a DIY wine room. You load your card, tap the wine, and you can even choose which size pour you want.
If you’re new to wine, this is a great place to taste out the different styles and flavors. They give you a description of each wine, you can go for a little taster or a full pour.
The Wine Room has tons of places for seating, all on the main floor, seating in “the vault”, or even outside! It felt so European with the tables right on the sidewalk out front. And if you’re hungry, they also have some small bites!
Eola Wine Company
Next on the wine list, we have Eola Wine Company. I thought this was the cutest little wine bar, and they have great happy hour prices! They also have the most aesthetically pleasing charcuterie boards. But, we opted for the macaron flight. Well, I call it that but that’s not the name. They were SO good. Paired with my Prosecco, it was the best combination.
Eola Wine Company is located right across the street from Lake Eola, so it’s a great stop after doing a walk around the lake. (I’ll mention more about this later.) They also have little tables outside for when the weather is nice, or you can sit at the bar on the cozy couches. The staff were so friendly and helpful, and it was a great spot to catch up with my friend and just have a girl’s night (or date night!)
Quantum Leap Winery
Art gallery + winery = perfect combo. It really makes you feel like you’re living the fancy life. I wasn’t in the market for a new art piece. But, if I lived in Orlando, this would be a great place to find some really cool custom artwork. Local artwork is on display and available for purchase, and they also have nights for art exhibits.
I got a wine flight, and since it was a hot day, I got the “sweet-ish flight”. It had a white wine, a pink wine, and a red wine. I’m not much of a wine connoisseur, but my palette is definitely expanding. I went alone here, so I just sat inside, read the descriptions of the wines while sipping, and looked at all the unique artwork. They have a covered patio outside, too, so you can enjoy the weather while sipping your wine. Make sure to check the hours before visiting!
Ten10 Brewing Company
I also went by myself here, and I had a great time. The bartender was awesome, and we got to talking for quite some time. This definitely felt like a local brewery, especially at the time of day I went. The regulars were all sitting at the bar and chatting it up with the staff.
I also actually really loved the beer I had here. I’m pretty sure I had 2 different IPAs and I just let her tell me which ones were most popular. And yeah, I think they’re popular for a reason – refreshing and delicious (if you like IPAs).
This is also located in the Ivanhoe/Mills 50 area, and I walked to Quantum Leap from there. It’s right on the main road, so just stop on in and grab a seat. They have a pretty good food menu, and it smelled so good in there. They’ve got a pretty large area with tables and a long bar, but I’m sure it gets a lot more crowded at night or on the weekends.
Other:
Bites & Bubbles
I really wanted to go here but just didn’t have the time! I was in the area enough, but it was a little farther from the other places I visited, so I just didn’t get a chance. Bites & Bubbles serves exactly what you think – wines, cocktails, and honestly a ton of food options. Their food rotates, but they have cheese boards, dips, and other appetizers and entrees. Check them out if you’re in Mills 50!
GB Bottle Shop & Tasting Bar
Also located in the Ivanhoe/Mills 50 area (I’m sorry I loved being here), is GB Bottle Shop & Tasting Bar. I actually have a picture, because the mural outside was so bright and colorful! I would have gone but they weren’t open yet when I was over there. They have exactly what you think – craft beer, wine, and mead. Side note: if you haven’t had mead, you definitely need to try it!
GB Bottle Shop & Tasting Bar is a great place to fill up growlers or buy from a good selection of beers. And they have lots of options on tap, so you can also enjoy the weather and sit outside enjoying some options there too!
Mathers Social Gathering
Located in the downtown area, Mathers Social Gathering is described as a “parlour-style cocktail lounge”. It has antiques all around, dark leather furniture, and it has a small food menu. By the pictures, it definitely looks the part. This would be perfect for a more relaxed happy hour or for getting good craft cocktails with friends.
Food
Ethos Vegan Restaurant
Ethos Vegan Restaurant is located in the Winter Park area. If you’re not vegan, or think you don’t like vegan food, don’t worry! I feel like vegan restaurants can get a bad reputation if you don’t typically eat plant-based foods. I used to be the same way, but thanks to a friend who mostly eats vegan, I’ve become a lot more open to it.
They serve dishes that are super similar to dishes you would typically get both at home or other restaurants, but they are just made from plants! I got a dish that was basically a shepherd’s pie, and it was delicious. We also got the green bean appetizer, and the flavors were chef’s kiss – easily our favorite part of the meal. They have pizza, pasta, and other fun dishes – so if you’re looking for a meal that is both sustainable and will make you feel good, definitely check out Ethos!
Cups and Pups Coffee
This is a very small, almost hole-in-the-wall coffee shop in College Park. As I may have mentioned before, I went on a ton of walks in this area because my friends lived over there. I must have passed it at least 5 times, and I finally went in before going to Disney one morning. Now, I’m not a coffee drinker, but my friend is so I just quickly walked over and picked up a couple things.
The barista was so nice and helpful. Since I’m not a coffee drinker, I got the Fizzy, and she was so nice to explain what was in it. It’s supposed to be like an açaí refresher type of drink, but it is made with dates and La Croix (don’t quote me on this but it’s similar to that). My friend got a coffee drink, and she said it was really good, because it wasn’t too sweet like most places can be. They also have a few pastries sitting out, so I got a muffin and YUM.
While I was in there, there were a couple of other locals sitting in the small room, and they were so friendly. We instantly got to chatting about plans for the day, how nice the weather has been, and they wanted to know about Nashville too, of course. Support local coffee shops! And if it wasn’t obvious, it is pet friendly.
Over the Border Taqueria (Taco Truck)
If you’re looking for some good authentic tacos in Orlando, find them!! They happened to be at Pour Choice Taphouse when we were there, and I’m drooling just thinking about how delicious the tacos were. We literally got one of each kind, and I couldn’t tell you which one I loved more.
The meat was cooked so perfectly – smoky and juicy and incredibly flavorful. Also, it doesn’t hurt that they throw a heaping pile of guacamole on the top. We got to chatting with the owner and he came to Orlando from San Diego. He absolutely loves getting to serve these authentic recipes. We weren’t even planning to order any, but we sat outside and the smell was so good we literally couldn’t resist.
World of Beer
After walking around Lake Eola, the perfect spot to stop, grab food and drinks, and watch the sunset is World of Beer. While I’m pretty sure this is a chain, it doesn’t matter. The food was delicious and the location was gorgeous. We went to walk around Lake Eola after my friend got off work, and it just so happened that after walking the 0.9 miles around the lake, we ended up back where we started at World of Beer.
I was just planning to get a drink, but the food menu looked amazing, so of course we had to try some things. We got the Everything Pretzel & Baked French Onion Dip and the Balsamic Brussel Sprouts. We basically just sat there and did the little food dance as we ate because everything was so delicious.
The food came pretty quickly, and our server was so nice. I got a glass of the house wine on the happy hour menu, and we watched the sunset over the lake. 10/10 recommend if you’re in the area. You can also see if there’s a location close to you, since they are all around the United States!
Huey Magoo’s
Yes, another chain, I’m sorry. As a Raising Cane’s super fan, without a location in Nashville, I’m always up for eating just your classic chicken fingers and crinkle fries with a yummy signature sauce. Well, Huey Magoo’s was so good I literally got it on DoorDash 2 days in a row.
I ordered extra sauce both times, because the sauce was so good. Also, the chicken was so juicy and tender, and don’t get me started on a good seasoned fry. So yeah, all I’m saying is this is a great place if you want just the classic lunch or dinner and you’re missing Raising Cane’s like me. But, unfortunately, I might like Huey Magoo’s better…
Doghouse
Sometimes you just need a good hotdog. Yes, I am one of those people that loves the simple things in life aka hotdogs. But, Doghouse serves anything but simple hotdogs. I truly devoured the entire thing, but honestly, the meal is huge and I couldn’t finish all my tots.
Doghouse is located in College Park, and they serve all kinds of loaded hot dogs both in buns and even one in a taco shell. They also serve all kinds of loaded tots, and if you get the combo it comes with any variation of these tots and a fountain drink. I got The King with the Urban Tots – aka a hotdog with chili, bacon, cheese, Fritos, etc, and tots with Parmesan and garlic aioli. Yum, yum, and yum.
You can also make your own hotdog and choose from different types of hotdog (including vegan) and a whole list of toppings. Or, just choose from the different versions on the menu. You can also get what is basically a tots flight (tots sampler). The tots include variations like pizza tots, Mac and cheese tots, and balsamic blue tots. Just know they only have one table inside on this side of the restaurant, but there are a few tables outside!
The Soda Fountain
Next, walk right next door to The Soda Fountain. But actually, you don’t even have to walk outside, just into the next room. The two stores are connected, so dessert is only a few steps away. The Soda Fountain has a good selection of various ice cream flavors, and they also have really fun milkshakes. Some of the milkshakes are those over-the-top (literally, overflowing) with tons of toppings.
You can also just get the classic scoops with the toppings you choose! I was already so full, but it’s hard to pass up something sweet after a meal. The ice cream was delicious, and I love having tons of options to choose from. Why choose just one when you can have both flavors and both toppings you want?!
Garp and Fuss
If you’re looking for a little fancier of a meal, head to Garp and Fuss. It’s almost a hidden restaurant in Winter Park. You have to walk down a small alley, past a little fountain, and around the corner to get here. The menu is full, and the story of the creation behind it was great.
Our server was also super attentive and knowledgeable about the whole menu. Also, they have a little lounge and “pub” area so if you’re not looking to dine or have a full meal, you can head here for appetizers and some good happy hour deals.
The prices are higher than most of the other suggestions on my list, but that just means the food is really good, right?! We got so many dishes, the first of which was the fish dip and the chips and guac, salsa, and queso. For my own meal, I literally couldn’t choose so I got the soup of the day which was like a lemon Greek chicken soup and also a flatbread. It was great – full tummy and full heart after catching up with another friend who lives there.
Le Macaron
Right down the street, also in downtown Winter Park, is Le Macaron. Well, writing this post is how I just found out that there is a location in Nashville that I’ve passed, but I never even realized it. They obviously serve macarons, but they also serve gelato and other sweet treats. My friend and I got a box of 6 macarons, and I had to stop myself from eating them all right then and there. I mean, I had just come from eating 4 different dishes at Garp & Fuss.
I will try to name all the flavors I got: champagne, Madagascar vanilla, lavender, salted caramel, chocolate, and birthday cake. Truly, they were all so good. I ate half a bite of each just sitting outside of it. It is located in this little shopping center almost? The walkway in there literally had koi fish, but they also have public bathrooms that were pretty well kept if you need it! If I went back, I would definitely get gelato, because I miss it from Europe.
Other:
The Hall on the Yard
While I didn’t choose to go here during this visit, I would definitely visit on the next. It is a big food hall, with multiple vendors like restaurants, bars, and event spaces. It definitely has a modern feel, and it would be a great place to go if you just want a lot of options. They have a decent outdoor space as well!
Better Than Sex – A Dessert Bar
Ugh, we almost went here, but we ended up at The Soda Fountain since it was more convenient. This is a dessert bar that is, well, sex themed? All of the desserts have rated MA names, so I obviously am not going to share on here. If you love complex desserts, definitely check them out.
Things to Do
SAK Comedy Lab
When I tell you this was my absolute favorite thing we did the entire trip, I’m not kidding. We had the absolute best time at their improv night, and I would go back again every weekend if I could. I’ve been looking up improv nights to go to in Nashville ever since. It just so happened when I went to Orlando that it was the theme for the night, but they hold different types of shows, so definitely check out their website.
I recently remembered that I love the show “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” Well, during this set, they pick audience judges, and they have a host much like the show. They go through different themes, both predetermined and from audience suggestions. The comedians were all hilarious, and the judges would rate them 1-5. If they all rated it a 5, the whole audience got up and did a dance party.
SAK also has concessions, so you can get beer, wine, popcorn, or other snacks. They even offered a discount on tickets to the show after if you wanted or were able to stay! It’s located right in downtown Orlando, so you can easily grab drinks or dinner before or after.
Lake Eola Park
I will always love a green space in the middle of a city, and that’s what Lake Eola Park brings. Along with a multitude of things to do around the park, it’s also beautiful and full of wildlife. The entire walk around the lake is only 0.9 miles. If you make stops along the way, it will obviously take longer, but it makes for a more fun outing.
They have a little cafe that’s on one corner of the lake, and they also have a little rainbow amphitheater close to that. If you’re a fan of farmer’s markets, they hold those at this park as well.
Near the amphitheater they actually had a sign with a list of events for the month, so you could always check that. In the middle of the lake, there is a little fountain, and there is also a little Chinese pagoda on one side. If you have kids, the park also has a playground!
Truly, this is a great way to get into the city and spend time outdoors. All around the park on the surrounding streets are bars and restaurants, so you might as well make a stop here.
Harry P Leu Gardens
This is a 50-acre botanical garden. Admission is $15, and you can easily pay online, and I’m pretty sure you can pay when you get there as well. I threw on a podcast, put in my headphones, and strolled around. The grounds were beautiful, and the diversity of the gardens was unexpected. But, keep in mind I don’t normally go to botanical gardens, so maybe that’s just normal, lol.
In these gardens, there were all different types of plants, including cacti and succulents, rainforest plants, and all types of flowers. They also had staff all around the gardens to help maintain them.
When you get there, you will walk in through a big white house and then through the gardens from there. I had more than enough time and wanted to see everything I could. I literally used my map on my phone to make sure I didn’t miss any paths.
They also have a part that goes along a lake, and it’s so beautiful to walk along on a nice day. Unfortunately the small boardwalk was closed when I was there, but it would be so nice to sit and hang out there. In fact, a lot of people were hanging out on the various benches around the gardens.
Uncle Tony’s Donut Shoppe (Mural)
I only mention this spot to say if you want a great picture either with or of a mural, this was the best one I saw! I like to say I pulled a Forrest Gump, because I went for a walk, and I just kept walking. Well, my walk ended up over in this area, and I just happened upon the mural. Obviously, I had to get a picture.
If you’re in the area, along this road where the mural can be seen, there were some fun restaurants and bars I passed by. Like, literally they were having brunch and it was so loud and fun, I should have just joined.
Kraft Azalea Garden
Okay, I was really just attempting to see the canals in Winter Park (I mention those next), but I just happened upon this little park. It’s located basically in a neighborhood in Winter Park, and it is right on a lake, like the paths go right up to the water. I’m not an architecture guru, but they even have large columns with a bench, and I just loved the saying on the back so much. It says, “PAUSE FRIEND LET BEAUTY REFRESH THE SPIRIT”. I wholeheartedly agree with this sentiment.
The park was so peaceful and calm, with the breeze rolling through the trees, and it had plenty of benches. I found myself just strolling through and sitting down for a while just staring at the water. Then I let the voice in my head tell me to worry about alligators. Anyway, they also have a little dock that goes out a little over the water, and the sweetest old couple was sitting there together.
Definitely check this little park out if you want a place to have a picnic, go on a short walk, or just sit out by the water. This would honestly make a great place to take pictures…But also, they have parking so you don’t need to worry about that!
Winter Park Canals
Okay, just look at the pictures and tell me it’s not gorgeous. You can’t! These canals are all around the area of Winter Park. I just think they are so gorgeous. Who says you can’t bring Venice to the United States?! Okay, I know that’s a stretch.
Anyway, I literally walked from the Kraft Azalea Garden just to see these for myself. They literally run right through people’s backyards, can you imagine? Also, you can do a Winter Park Canal Tour! It takes you all through the lakes and canals in the area. This would be such an easy way to see so much and have a cool breeze hit you in that sweltering heat.
Other:
Central Park (Winter Park)
Located right in downtown Winter Park is Central Park! Does every big city have one? Anyway, it was a nice little park that would be great for a stroll either before or after dinner, or even just to watch the sunset. We got a good view of it from The Wine Room. There are so many place to dine or get drinks in the area, but sometimes you just need a good walk or a solid park bench to people watch.
Areas:
Okay, I’m not going to attempt to describe each of these neighborhoods, but I’ll just give a brief little statement. These were pretty much all the areas that I visited during my time in Orlando! I didn’t really have the time to venture more south of Orlando. The only other place I visited, again, was Disney.
All of these areas have something unique and special, and I honestly feel like you could separate your trip by dividing up into these main neighborhoods and just taking it day by day this way. Literally just add any of the places from my list or any other list to your Google Maps and visit them by location. It’s really that simple. So, if you’re not from there or you haven’t read it before, here are some of the main areas in Orlando:
College Park
Ivanhoe
The Milk District
Winter Park
Mills 50
For More Reading:
To read more about Florida, check out: How To Do All 4 Disney Parks in 1 Day | Orlando, Florida.
For more destinations around the United States, either use the search bar, or click here: Domestic Destinations.
To read more about things to do in Nashville and my local favorites, click here: Best of Nashville.
