Summary
Visitors flock to Orlando primarily to enjoy the theme parks, and understandably so, as they offer extraordinary experiences. However, many overlook Downtown Orlando, missing out on a unique and enriching aspect of the city.
Downtown Orlando serves as the city’s historic nucleus, boasting a distinctive atmosphere. Unlike the whimsical architecture of theme parks, the area features a cosmopolitan neighborhood embellished with impressive public art, expansive lakeside parks, museums, and diverse shopping options. You can indulge in luxurious spa treatments, enjoy a comedy show, or unwind at an underground speakeasy—all available in Downtown Orlando.
A visit to Downtown Orlando is highly recommended. While there, aim to experience as many of the fifteen top activities we present below. You will certainly appreciate the exploration.
1. Art Orlando
Obtain a map from the Downtown Orlando Information Center and embark on a self-guided exploration of the area’s streets to uncover nine contemporary sculptures that comprise Art Orlando. This journey not only familiarizes you with Downtown but also showcases stunning artistic masterpieces.
The Take Flight sculpture adorns the shoreline of Lake Eola, featuring a flock of metal birds appearing to be eternally in flight. The Union sculpture consists of an enchanting array of curved metal wings that move in the breeze. The Cedar of Lebanon presents an awe-inspiring, three-story high artistic representation of tree life. Capture a memorable photo sitting in the hand of the Muse of Discovery, a colossal sculpture of a prone woman partially submerged in earth and greenery. These are merely a few highlights.
Each of the nine Art Orlando sculptures guarantees an Instagram-worthy photo opportunity. Be sure to capture them all.
2. Lake Eola Park
Unlike certain towns situated by lakes, Downtown Orlando features a lake at its urban heart—a picturesque body of water enveloped by lush parkland. The lake boasts a walkable perimeter of nearly one mile and spans almost twenty-three acres.
Consider renting a swan boat and paddling across the lake for spectacular views of the Downtown Orlando skyline and a closer look at the park’s magnificent fountain. The fountain, resembling a flying saucer, emits water jets during the day and transforms into a dazzling light display at night.
In addition, Lake Eola Park hosts a market every Sunday, alongside various festivals and outdoor concerts throughout the year.
3. SAK Comedy Lab
Were the SAK Comedy Lab to adopt an official motto, it would likely be “expect the unexpected.” This improvisational theater in Downtown Orlando has been presenting ad lib performances nightly for nearly three decades.
The venue, located on Orange Avenue, accommodates two hundred and fifty patrons and focuses on eliciting laughter through spontaneous comedic performances, songs, and one-liners. Audience members are encouraged to propose characters or themes to inspire the performers, often resulting in side-splitting outcomes.
To enjoy an unforgettable evening in Downtown Orlando, prioritize the SAK Comedy Lab on your itinerary.
4. Juice Bike Share
Experience Downtown Orlando in a healthy and budget-friendly manner by utilizing the Juice Bike Share program. The minimum rental time for a pay-as-you-go scheme is forty-five minutes, with rates becoming more affordable the longer you keep the bike.
Multiple hubs throughout Downtown allow for easy bike rentals and parking when visiting attractions or taking a coffee break. Notably, Downtown Orlando offers a comprehensive network of bike lanes, minimizing traffic concerns.
Lane maps can be acquired from Metroplan Orlando. It’s advisable to plan your routes beforehand and remember to wear a safety helmet.
5. Cobb Plaza Cinema Cafe
Enjoy a cozy night out by dining while watching the latest film at Cobb Plaza Cinema Cafe. This theater complex, situated on Downtown Orlando’s Orange Avenue, features twelve auditoriums equipped with plush leather seating, each screening different movies.
Experience superior cinematic quality with a state-of-the-art sound system while savoring a range of menu items, including sliders, soft tacos topped with black beans, or a delicious pepperoni pizza, all complemented by a selection of wines or beers.
6. Orange County History Center
Delve into five stories of the Orange County History Center to uncover the rich history of Orlando along with significant regional historical narratives.
Located on Central Boulevard, the museum occupies a neoclassical building from the late 1920s, originally serving as a courthouse. Exhibitions encompass various themes, including agriculture, aviation, and space exploration. Engaging displays illustrate Florida’s flora and fauna, replicas of pioneer cabins, and narratives and artifacts pertaining to Indigenous peoples and African Americans.
This center offers a captivating glimpse into Florida’s transformation over the past century, transitioning from an agricultural society to a tourism-driven economy.
7. The Walt Disney Amphitheater
The Walt Disney Amphitheater, situated within Lake Eola Park in Downtown Orlando, serves as a venue for various events. Its shell-like structure reflects a 1950s aesthetic and becomes a hub for festivals, dance performances, and open-air concerts throughout the year.
Adjacent to Lake Eola, the amphitheater can accommodate over a thousand spectators and is equipped with advanced sound and lighting systems.
If you find yourself in Downtown Orlando on the Fourth of July, the Walt Disney Amphitheater stands out as the ideal location to witness the spectacular fireworks display.
8. Hamburger Mary’s
For unpretentious, comforting cuisine in Downtown Orlando, Hamburger Mary’s on Church Street is the place to be. The entertainment begins after dinner with vibrant performances.
Choose from an extensive burger menu, including the Proud Mary burger with a full pound of beef or the Bleu Boy topped with blue cheese. Options also include various sandwiches, wraps, or delightful mac and cheese balls.
As the evening progresses, prepare for a lively show featuring drag acts, female impersonators, and amusing celebrity lookalikes.
9. Thornton Park
Thornton Park is a sophisticated district within Downtown Orlando, attracting visitors for delightful evening social interactions on the terraces of its cafes and restaurants.
Enjoy leisurely strolls along terra cotta-style streets while soaking in the Bohemian ambiance. The area features boutique shops alongside art galleries, pubs, and restaurants, many offering nightly live music and upscale dining experiences.
Thornton Park is an ideal location to dedicate an entire day to exploration followed by an enjoyable evening. With its abundance of options, you’ll likely want to return for another visit.
10. Hanson’s Shoe Repair
If you anticipated a typical shoe repair shop, you would be mistaken. Hanson’s Shoe Repair in Downtown Orlando operates as a stylish underground speakeasy bar located on East Pine Street.
The bar features a polished wooden floor and exposed brick walls, complemented by a musicians’ gallery where performers entertain guests in the rooftop lounge. The bartenders are knowledgeable in mixology, ensuring a pleasurable experience.
Considering a visit to this unique establishment? Be sure to check their Facebook page for the daily password. Without it, you may find yourself barred from entry.
11. Poseidon Spa
Immerse yourself in luxurious rejuvenation at Poseidon Spa, adorned with elegant 1950s decor, located within the prestigious Marriott Grand Bohemian Hotel on Orange Avenue in Downtown Orlando.
Indulge in body scrubs, wraps, massages, facials, or manicures. Whichever service you choose, anticipate leaving feeling revitalized.
If your budget allows, consider dining at the hotel’s The Boheme restaurant for brunch accompanied by live jazz or enjoying a refined cocktail at the Bosendorfer Lounge.
12. Dr Phillips Center
The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is an impressive modern entertainment complex located on Downtown Orlando’s Magnolia Avenue. This state-of-the-art glass structure is dedicated to showcasing the performing arts, featuring two theaters, with a third currently under construction.
The Walt Disney Theater has a seating capacity of nearly three thousand, hosting larger productions such as musicals, operas, and dramatic performances. Meanwhile, the Pugh Theater accommodates three hundred guests, making it ideal for more intimate shows.
Additionally, the center offers a glass-walled room, the DeVos Family Room, for private events, as well as the Della Phillips Lobby, where theater attendees can enjoy refreshments prior to performances.
13. Downtown Ghost Tour
Downtown Orlando possesses a rich and intricate history, complete with its share of ghostly residents. Join a tour guide from American Ghost Adventures, equipped with specialized paranormal equipment, to investigate haunted sites while discovering the captivating history of Downtown Orlando.
Should this pique your interest, consider joining the extended four-hour tour, replete with even more sophisticated ghost-hunting gear, allowing for prolonged exploration of haunted locations. Participants receive a souvenir t-shirt as a token of bravery.
14. Wells’ Built Museum
The Wells’ Built Museum of African American History and Culture is housed in a historic hotel located on South Street in Downtown Orlando. Constructed by Dr. Wells in the 1920s, the hotel provided accommodations to visitors who faced exclusion from other venues due to segregation laws.
The museum showcases numerous exhibits and artifacts associated with renowned guests, including musicians, performers, and sports figures, along with memorabilia from the Civil Rights Movement.
15. Aero Rooftop Bar
Dance the night away under a sky illuminated by strobe beams and laser lights at the Aero Rooftop Bar and Lounge, located on Orange Avenue in Downtown Orlando. Join the vibrant crowd on the outdoor dance floor or opt for a VIP cabana to observe the festivities.
This upscale club energizes Downtown from Thursday to Sunday, featuring top DJs spinning genres ranging from Hip Hop to Electro, House, and Old School Funk. It embodies the modern, lively spirit that characterizes Downtown Orlando.
