Downtown Orlando is filled with exciting activities for everyone to enjoy, whether you are planning to spend the day solo or with a large group of adults and kids. You can enjoy beautiful parks and gardens, admire inspirational performing arts pieces or art galleries, or engage in the rich history of Orlando and Central Florida.
Additionally, you can indulge in fantastic dining and drink experiences, root for your favorite sports teams at world-class events, or dance the night away with the best live music. Ultimately, you can have a blast at some of the best places Orlando has to offer! Explore the following list of fun things to do in the area.
Church Street District
Church Street District is an excellent place to soak up all the energy downtown Orlando has to offer. So, indulge in the many exceptional restaurants, theaters, and shops. It is also well-known for its nightlife scene with many clubs and bars.
You can enjoy live music entertainment and celebrate sports events at their numerous block parties throughout the year, observe a play at Mad Cow Theater, or watch sporting events at Amway Center.
Events by Florida Citrus Sports at Camping World Stadium
Many exciting events occur throughout the year at Camping World Stadium, located in the West Lakes neighborhood at 1 Citrus Bowl Place. Florida Citrus Sports, a not-for-profit organization committed to offering exciting events in Central Florida, organizes the events as part of their effort to give back to the community.
If you are looking for a unique way to relax and work up a sweat, you may be interested in taking part in the 60-minute Yoga at the Stadium session led by an expert instructor and followed by happy hour. On the other hand, if you want to root and rally for teams amidst an energetic crowd, consider checking out the Vrbo Citrus Bowl, Cheez-It Bowl, Camping World Kickoff, or Florida Classic.
Of course, everyone loves a thrilling concert, especially when your favorite artists come to town. Billy Joel, Garth Brooks, Mötley Crüe with Poison, Joan Jett & The Blackhearts, Bad Bunny, and Red Hot Chili Peppers are some of the upcoming concerts in Orlando to look forward to this year.
Furthermore, if you get hungry before or after heading to your event of choice, be sure to check out some of the best places to eat near Camping World Stadium for a meal you won’t soon forget. You can definitely satisfy your appetite, as the dining experiences in downtown Orlando are some of the best places in the state.
SAK Comedy Lab
SAK Comedy Lab is a fantastic venue for couples, groups of friends, and families with kids of all ages. It features nightly improv shows most days of the week, showcasing some of the most hilarious skits in Orlando. Named one of the 50 Best Comedy Clubs in America, it’s a definite must-visit when considering fun activities in Downtown Orlando. You can find out more by visiting the SAK Comedy Lab Twitter page or visiting their location in person at 29 South Orange Avenue.
Thornton Park District
Thornton Park District is an ideal way for adults to enjoy drinks and dining in a relaxed atmosphere. If shopping is more your style, you can peruse over 60 specialty shops for some retail therapy. Every second Thursday of the month, adults can also indulge in the Art & Wine Walk.
The district hosts a Thursday Night Market inviting all ages to browse fresh produce, handicrafts, and gifts. With so much in store, you will surely find fun things to enjoy in this section of Downtown Orlando.
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, located at 445 South Magnolia Avenue, is a large performing arts complex in Downtown Orlando. It features a 2,700-seat theater hall for spectacular Fairwinds Broadway in Orlando plays. There are also half-size venues ideal for smaller arts performances, speeches and lectures, and ceremonies.
Every month, there are plenty of events, making it a great place for solo arts enthusiasts, couples, groups, and families. Furthermore, if you are interested in the history of the building, you may be intrigued by their free tours, which go into depth regarding its conception and development throughout the years.
Lake Eola Park
If you are looking for a relaxed atmosphere filled with great activities for the whole family, consider visiting Lake Eola Park, located in the heart of Downtown Orlando.
You can easily find this beautiful park, located at 512 East Washington Street. Originally donated to the city by a wealthy family, the park features a pristine lake, well-maintained encircling sidewalks, and swan-shaped paddle boats you can rent.
You can delight in the many events held here throughout the year, including performing arts, film, and music performances at its Walt Disney Amphitheater or arts, culture, and sports festivals. As a parent, you can sit and relax amidst a tranquil landscape of flowers and fountains while the kids play in the large playground. Moreover, if you desire to spend the day here, take advantage of the Farmer’s Market hosted every Sunday.
Unique Cocktail Experiences at The Courtesy & Hanson’s Shoe Repair
A secretive, stylish speakeasy in Downtown Orlando serving classic and rare cocktails, Hanson’s Shoe Repair invites exclusivity and old-world charm by requiring a password to enter. Although acquiring the password through social media or phone may be easy, finding it is still a fun adventure. You can spend some time in Bauhaus 27 East Pine Street and learn from word of mouth how to enter the secret bar from there.
Another excellent cocktail establishment is found around the corner, at 114 North Orange Avenue, The Courtesy. With handcrafted, one-of-a-kind cocktails and classic favorites made from only the finest ingredients, anyone can experience the pleasures of high society. They even offer cocktail classes so you can learn how to make your own every first and third Saturday of the month!
Downtown Arts District
For those who love touring art galleries and admiring the performing arts, The Downtown Arts District organizes many art galleries and venues located in Downtown Orlando. City Arts, located at 39 South Magnolia Avenue, is one of the main collections featuring rotating local and international art installations.
They also offer many events and programs, including a gallery hop every third Thursday of the month, and a large annual, themed fundraiser, La Maschera.
Orange County Regional History Center
The Orange County Regional History Center is a five-story museum located in the old Orange County Courthouse at 65 East Central Boulevard. The intriguing exhibitions and programs are curated to present 12,000 years of Orlando and Central Florida history.
You can take a free self-guided audio tour of the museum or pop in on one of the events they hold, such as historical storytelling, lunch and learns, and morning talks that focus on myths and legends.
Grab a Bite at DTO’s Best Restaurants
Downtown Orlando is full of delectable dining experiences. From distinct international cuisines to dynamic culinary fusions to good old-fashioned American diners, there is something here for everyone to enjoy. Try some of these Orlando favorites:
- Artisan’s Table: American-style restaurant and drinks in the Church Street District, at 55 West Church Street
- Maxine’s on Shine: 40s-style American restaurant located at 337 Shine Avenue
- Ace Cafe Orlando: American eatery and bar with live car, truck, and motorcycle shows located at 100 West Livingston Street
- Cafe Trastevere Italian: Italian cafe at 825 North Magnolia Avenue
- Thai Cafe: Casual Thai eatery located at 217 North Magnolia Avenue
- The Monroe: Classic American-style restaurant at 448 North Terry Avenue
- Kres Chophouse: American steakhouse found 17 West Church Street
- Harp and Celt Irish Pub: Irish pub food and drinks located at 25 South Magnolia Avenue
- Reyes Mezcaleria: Authentic Mexican restaurant located at 821 North Orange Avenue
- The Boheme: New-American restaurant at 325 South Orange Avenue
If you are more of a grab-n-go type of person, be sure to check out some of the best food trucks in Orlando.
Wells’ Built Museum
Wells’ Built Museum of African American History and Culture was originally built as a hotel that provided accommodations for famous African American performers during Segregation times. It now is one of the most prominent museums in Orlando, showcasing information and displays on Civil Rights as well as dedicated arts and artifacts.
They also host and organize many events every month, which you can find information about on their Facebook page. Find this great museum at 511 West South Street.
Orlando Ghost Tour
If you are interested in learning about the haunted history of Downtown Orlando, take a ghost tour. American Ghost Adventures offers 2-hour and 4-hour walking tours that include small investigations inside haunted buildings. Tour attendees meet at 129 West Church Street.
US Ghost Adventures runs Orlando Haunts, a fun-filled hour to 90-minute option with a rich storytelling of paranormal sightings across the city center. Gather at 28-2 North Magnolia Avenue to begin the tour.
Axe Throwing
Looking for more things to do in Downtown Orlando? Try your hand at axe throwing. There are a few locations in Downtown Orlando that offer an exceptional experience! You can visit Epic Axe Throwing, located at 47 East Robinson Street. Epic offers personal coaches for every group.
Another prime location is BatlGrounds, 55 West Church Street, where you can throw solo or with friends and family. They also serve fantastic food and drink if you work up an appetite.
The Abbey
The Abbey is the perfect place for an evening date or solo excursion. It offers many events from concerts to comedy to dance to theater! It is also a great place to hold private events such as a birthday bash or other special celebrations.
The Abbey features a full-service bar, spacious seating, and an elevated stage, all in a chic gothic-style atmosphere. Find out more from their Facebook, Instagram, or by visiting in person at the address 100 South Eola Drive.
Catch the Sunset at a Rooftop Bar
There is nothing more enchanting than a rooftop date while watching the vibrant orange and pink Orlando sunset. Finish off the perfect day with a drink at Latitudes in a chill, beachy atmosphere at 33 West Church Street.
You can also start the night off right in a classy, cool environment like SkyLounge at Amway Center at 400 West Church Street.
There are plenty of fun things to do in Downtown Orlando, whether you’re going out on the town solo, as a romantic duo, or with friends and your family. If you need fresh ideas, the above list of the best places to go and the best things to do can help you plan a day or a week’s worth of activities! If you need even more ideas, check out the ultimate guide to family activities in Orlando or date ideas for couples in the area.