I feel so incredibly blessed to live in Orlando, Florida. There are so many things to do, awesome places to eat, and we have the best weather! In this post, as a local, I wanted to share things to do, where to eat, and where to shop in this lovely city. As you all know Orlando is the Theme Park Capital of the world with over 10 of the best theme parks, but there's so much more to do here!
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Orlando is from January to April with superb weather and September to November. Summertime is very hot and humid and everyone comes to take advantage of their school break, which means its crowded and hotels are more expensive. During summer it rains almost every single day in the afternoon. One minute it could be scorching hot and sunny, the next, a massive thunderstorm! Keep in mind Florida's hurricane season falls between June and November.
Where to Eat:
Some neighborhoods serving international cuisines as well as hearty all-American platters are: Convention Area, Restaurant Row, Lake Buena Vista, Downtown, Winter Park
Briarpatch- It is located in downtown Winter Park on Park Ave. They have the best brunch with delicious selections.
The Edison- A restaurant, bar and live entertainment performance venue done in an 'industrial gothic' style located in Disney Springs. It is set in an abandoned power plant, with a patio facing Lake Buena Vista. The restaurant features American cuisine.
Foxtail Coffee- Located in Winter Park this airy, rustic industrial spot serves house-roasted coffee and baked goods, ciders and cocktails.
Create Your Nature- Located next to Foxtail Coffee in Winter Park. AMAZING acai bowls!
The Stubborn Mule- Cool restaurant with a contemporary feel offering a playful menu of new American dishes & cocktails.
Mathers Social Gathering- Located in a historic building in Downtown Orlando. A super cool speakeasy with warm atmosphere and good quality cocktails.
What To Do:
Theme Parks- Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, Disney's Hollywood Studios, SeaWorld, Universal, Universal's Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay, Discovery Cove, Aquatica Orlando and more.
Disney Springs- Is an outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment complex at the World Disney Resort in Bay Lake Florida.
International Drive- There are many hotels, restaurants, entertainment, shopping and attractions along I-drive for the entire family!
Winter Park- It's known for its abundant outdoor spaces like leafy Central Park. There are many great restaurants and shops in this area.
Downtown/ Lake Eola- Lake Eola is located in the heart of Downtown Orlando. Also located in the park is the Walt Disney Amphitheater, which hosts many community events and various performances year round. On the east side of the park is a Chinese pagoda and a playground.
Old Town- Outdoor shopping mall and entertainment complex located in Kissimmee. Old Town is a step back in time with unique shopping, restaurants, bars, attractions and rides.
Where to Shop:
Mall at Millenia- Is an indoor shopping mall located in Orlando. The Mall at Millenia offers the finest collection of luxury boutiques and in-demand brands with more than 150 stores.
The Florida Mall- Is the largest single shopping venue in Orlando with 250 stores.
Orlando International Premium Outlets- Is an outdoor shopping mall, come experience brands like Last Call by Neiman Marcus, Nike Factory Store, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, Victoria's Secret and more.
Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets- Outdoor shopping mall. Shop more than 160 outlet designer and name-brand outlet stores including Burberry, Jimmy choo, Kate Spade New York, Bottega Veneta, Calvin Klein, MaxMara, Prada, Salvatore Ferragamo, Tory Burch and Tommy Hilfiger.
