Forget everything you thought you knew about Orlando. Beyond the magic of its famous theme parks lies a vibrant, bustling city with a charm all its own. For those who venture past the tourist-filled gates, a world of beautiful parks, unique neighborhoods, and a thriving arts scene awaits. Downtown Orlando, affectionately known as “The City Beautiful,” is a destination in its own right, filled with historic charm and modern energy. Get ready to discover a side of Orlando that’s far from the ordinary and full of surprises.
How to Spend a Day in Downtown Orlando
Morning
Start the day at Thornton Park. The little pocket off downtown boasts brick streets, 1920s bungalows, and a beautiful fountain with a quaint collection of a cafés and shops. Benjamin French Bakery serves delicious croissants and espresso. After fueling up, stroll over to Lake Eola Park, considered the heart of downtown. A shaded playground is fun for the kids, along with swan boats you can rent by the half hour to take in the city skyline by water.
Take a walk around the lake to admire the sculptures, created by artists from across the globe commissioned by See Art Orlando. Children and adults will love the whimsical Monument in Right Foot Major near the playground. Rumor has it, if you sit in the palm of The Muse of Discovery near the amphitheater, you’ll find inspiration.
Finally, even if you can’t see a show, be sure to drive by the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, recognized by Travel + Leisure and Southern Living magazines as being among the top venues in the country.
Afternoon
Take a short drive from downtown to Loch Haven Park. The best of the city’s cultural attractions are concentrated here, beneath sprawling oaks and sandwiched between three scenic lakes. See the permanent and traveling exhibits at the Orlando Museum of Art, then head over to the Mennello Museum of American Art for a primitive flavor of Americana. Kids will love the Orlando Science Center, which is like one big educational playground. Next door, there’s even a Shakespeare theater, a children’s theater and a fire museum.
For lunch, the Mills 50 District offers some of the state’s best international fare. It’s difficult to decide with options like Hawker’s Asian Street Fare, Black Bean Deli for Cuban, Black Rooster Taqueria for Mexican street tacos, and Pig Floyd’s for globally inspired barbecue.
Evening
Stop in at the City Arts Factory for their art galleries. City Arts Factory houses half a dozen galleries of local and international artists. Upstairs is the Sak Comedy Club, an improv comedy club suitable for all ages, where Wayne Brady of Whose Line Is It Anyway got his start before making the big time.
After some laughs, walk just a few blocks down Orange Avenue to The Boheme. The Boheme provides an elegant dining experience, blending a “culinary revival” with a sophisticated atmosphere inspired by French Revival design. Its menu transforms traditional dishes into stunning creations using modern techniques and locally sourced ingredients. With live jazz and a grand yet inviting ambiance, it’s an ideal spot for any occasion, from a quiet dinner for two to a festive Sunday brunch.
