Downtown Orlando, Orlando - Downtown Orlando during COVID-19 Shutdown in 2020
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Downtown Orlando, Orlando

4.6
·491k reviews·Orlando, United States

Downtown Orlando offers a dynamic mix of nightlife, diverse dining, and urban green spaces like Lake Eola Park.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

3rd Thursday Evenings

Free art and history events

CrowdMedium
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Downtown Orlando, Orlando - Downtown Orlando during COVID-19 Shutdown in 2020

Downtown Orlando, Orlando

Best Time

3rd Thursday Evenings

Free art and history events

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Downtown Orlando offers a dynamic mix of nightlife, diverse dining, and urban green spaces like Lake Eola Park.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Experience unique themed bars, delicious eats, and scenic strolls in the heart of Orlando."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk with Purpose

Ignore street solicitors; walk confidently to avoid unwanted attention. :walking:

🚗 Parking Tips

Main garages are on Central Ave. Bars are mostly south. Helps with orientation. :parking:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lake Eola Park

Lake Eola Park

Downtown Orlando

A picturesque urban oasis perfect for strolls, swan boat rides, and people-watching. A must-visit for a relaxing escape.

Reddit
High-T Orlando

High-T Orlando

Downtown Orlando

Step into an Alice in Wonderland-themed bar with whimsical drinks and an immersive atmosphere. A unique nightlife experience.

TikTok
Taco Kat

Taco Kat

Downtown Orlando

Discover this hidden gem serving authentic and delicious tacos. A surprising culinary delight tucked away in a unique setting.

TikTok
CityArts

CityArts

Downtown Orlando

Explore diverse art exhibitions in this vibrant downtown gallery. A great free option for art lovers.

Reddit

Planning Your Visit

Navigating Downtown Orlando

Downtown Orlando offers a vibrant mix of dining, nightlife, and cultural spots. Consider using ride-sharing services or the SunRail train for easier navigation, especially on weekends when parking can be challenging. Be aware of street closures on Orange Avenue during peak hours for pedestrian safety. Reddit

Embrace the Local Vibe

Experience Downtown Orlando like a local by exploring its diverse culinary scene, from hidden taco spots to themed bars. Check for local events like 3rd Thursday for free art and history activities. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
3rd Thursday Evenings
Why
Free art and history events
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunday Mornings
Why
Farmer's Market buzz
Crowd
Medium
When
Weeknights
Why
Lively bar scene
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Looking for a new bar in Downtown Orlando? I’ve got you covered at High-T Orlando❣️ This immersive Alice and Wonderland themed experience is quite literally out of this world! The drinks are incredibly themed and the atmosphere is one of the coolest I’ve seen in the area ♥️ #orlando #orlandovideos #orlandoflorida #orlandobars #orlandorestaurants #orlandodrinks #orlandothingstodo #orlandofoodie #or...
@samanthalongton
64.4K likes • 736.6K views

🚶‍♀️ Walk with Purpose

Ignore street solicitors; walk confidently to avoid unwanted attention. Reddit :walking:

🚗 Parking Tips

Main garages are on Central Ave. Bars are mostly south. Helps with orientation. Reddit :parking:

Taco Kat is a must visit when in downtown Orlando! Hidden inside an actual taco restaurant, Taco Kat is an unexpected surprise! 🌮🔥
@ccworld.com
42.3K likes • 399.7K views
Still learning my @osmo_global and how to edit but I’m getting somewhere I hate that the quality goes down when I upload here any ideas? #backyardshitz #osmopocket3 #rollers #fyp #downtownorlando
backyardshitz
813 likes • 9.6K views

🚆 SunRail for Commute

Consider SunRail if living north or south of downtown for an easier commute. Reddit :train2:

🎨 3rd Thursday Art

Check out 3rd Thursday for free art and history events in the Downtown Arts District. Reddit :art:

☕✨ THE COFFEE FIESTA – SESSION 10 TWO ROOMS – ONE FIESTA ✨ Introducing SalsaHouse downstairs — hecho Pal’ Bailador 💃 📍 Upstairs: @matherssocial 📍 Downstairs: @thejazzorlando 🗓 Sunday, September 21 | ⏰ 11:11 AM 🎶 DJ’s from 🇻🇪 Venezuela · 🇨🇴 Colombia · 🇩🇴 Dominican Republic Our biggest celebration yet. 🎟 Tickets available now via POSH or link in bio. 💬 Tell us — upstairs or downstairs, where ...
thecoffeefiesta
64 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk with Purpose

Ignore street solicitors; walk confidently to avoid unwanted attention. Reddit :walking:

🚗 Parking Tips

Main garages are on Central Ave. Bars are mostly south. Helps with orientation. Reddit :parking:

🚆 SunRail for Commute

Consider SunRail if living north or south of downtown for an easier commute. Reddit :train2:

🎨 3rd Thursday Art

Check out 3rd Thursday for free art and history events in the Downtown Arts District. Reddit :art:

🦢 Lake Eola Swans

Feed the swans at Lake Eola with a few quarters for a classic downtown experience. Reddit :bird:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors often praise Downtown Orlando for its vibrant nightlife, unique themed bars like High-T Orlando, and diverse culinary scene featuring spots like Taco Kat. The beauty of Lake Eola Park is a consistent highlight for relaxation and scenic views. Some find the downtown area can feel a bit spread out, and parking can be a hassle on busy nights.

What People Like

Unique themed bars
Diverse food options
Lake Eola Park beauty

What People Dislike

Parking challenges
Can feel spread out

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Downtown Orlando is best navigated by walking, ride-sharing services, or the SunRail train. Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends. Reddit Consider using ride-sharing for a hassle-free experience. Reddit

Yes, SunRail is a convenient option if you live north or south of downtown, offering a less stressful commute than driving. Reddit

The main parking garages are located on Central Avenue. Knowing this can help you orient yourself, especially if you plan to visit the bars, which are generally south of these garages. Reddit

Yes, streets like Orange Avenue can experience closures, particularly on weekends, to enhance pedestrian safety and create a more walkable environment. Reddit

For a good walking experience, start at the Dr. Phillips Center, head north on Orange Avenue, turn right on Washington, and explore Lake Eola Park. You can also wander through the Thornton Park area. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Absolutely! You can walk around Lake Eola Park, visit the CityArts gallery, and browse the Downtown Library. On Sundays, the Farmer's Market is a great free activity. Reddit+1

Keep an eye out for '3rd Thursday' events, which often feature free art and history activities throughout downtown. Reddit Some museums, like the Orlando Museum of Art (OMA), may also offer free admission on specific days. Reddit

Downtown Orlando offers a range of activities, from free parks and galleries to ticketed events and dining. You can have a great time on a budget by focusing on free attractions and affordable eats. Reddit+1

No, Lake Eola Park is a public park and is free to enter. You can enjoy the walking paths, scenery, and people-watching without any admission fee. Reddit

Yes, during 'Magical Dining' month, you can enjoy special prix-fixe menus at participating restaurants, including some with elevated views like The Citrus Club. Reddit

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

Don't miss Lake Eola Park for a relaxing stroll, High-T Orlando for a unique themed bar experience, and Taco Kat for delicious Mexican street food. TikTokReddit+1

For a high vantage point, consider the Orange County Courthouse, which offers views from its 23rd floor. The Citrus Club also provides elevated dining experiences. Reddit

You can explore Lake Eola Park, visit art galleries like CityArts, browse the Downtown Library, or check out the Farmer's Market on Sundays. Reddit+1

Downtown Orlando can be quite lively on weekend nights, with many bars and restaurants drawing crowds. Some areas might feel more energetic than others. Reddit

Taco Kat offers a surprising and delicious taco experience, and High-T Orlando provides a unique Alice in Wonderland-themed bar. TikTok+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Taco Kat is highly recommended for its authentic tacos, and you can also find amazing tamales in the Hourglass District, including Birria and Al Pastor varieties. TikTok+1

High-T Orlando offers an immersive Alice in Wonderland experience with creatively themed drinks and pastries. TikTok

The Citrus Club, located on the top floor of an older building at Orange and Jackson, offers an old-school vibe and elevated views, especially during Magical Dining month. Reddit

Yes, the Hourglass District is known for its fantastic tamales, with popular choices including Al Pastor and Birria. Don't forget to try their churros and conchas! TikTok

High-T Orlando is known for its incredibly themed drinks that are presented with unique and impressive presentations, all inspired by Alice in Wonderland. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Lake Eola Park offers beautiful skyline views and scenic spots. The unique theming at High-T Orlando also provides great photo opportunities. TikTokReddit

For elevated views, consider the Orange County Courthouse. Lake Eola Park also provides picturesque shots of the city skyline. Reddit+1

High-T Orlando is a standout with its Alice in Wonderland theme, offering a visually rich environment for photos and videos. TikTok

Golden hour, just before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for skyline shots around Lake Eola. Evenings can be vibrant with city lights. Reddit

Generally, photography is allowed in art galleries for personal use, but it's always best to check the specific policy of CityArts or ask a staff member. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting Downtown Orlando will find Lake Eola Park to be a major draw. The park offers plenty of open space for kids to run around, a playground, and the iconic swan boats for a fun ride. Reddit Feeding the swans is also a simple yet engaging activity for children. Reddit Many of the downtown restaurants are casual and welcoming, making it easy to find family-friendly dining options. Consider visiting during daylight hours to make the most of the park's amenities and avoid the busier nightlife scene.

💰 Budget Travelers

Downtown Orlando is surprisingly budget-friendly if you know where to look. Prioritize free activities like exploring Lake Eola Park and visiting CityArts gallery. Reddit+1 The Downtown Library is also a great free resource for downtime. Reddit For affordable eats, seek out spots like Taco Kat for delicious and reasonably priced tacos, or explore the tamale offerings in the Hourglass District. TikTok+1 Utilize SunRail for transportation if possible to save on ride-sharing costs. Reddit

couples

For a romantic outing, start with a stroll around Lake Eola Park, perhaps enjoying a swan boat ride. Reddit In the evening, consider a unique date at High-T Orlando for its whimsical atmosphere and themed drinks. TikTok Alternatively, enjoy a sophisticated dinner at The Citrus Club for elevated dining and city views. Reddit Exploring the art galleries on 3rd Thursday can also be a charming and engaging experience for couples. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Downtown Orlando's Nightlife

Downtown Orlando comes alive after dark with a diverse range of bars and entertainment venues. For a truly unique experience, High-T Orlando offers an immersive Alice in Wonderland theme, complete with creatively presented cocktails and whimsical decor. TikTok This spot is perfect for those seeking something beyond the typical bar scene. If you're looking for a more casual yet exciting vibe, exploring the bars along Orange Avenue is a popular choice, though be mindful of potential street closures on weekends. Reddit

Beyond themed bars, Downtown Orlando also hosts events like '3rd Thursday,' which transforms the area into an art and culture hub with live music and gallery openings, offering a different kind of evening entertainment. Reddit For those interested in live music, venues like The Jazz Orlando offer a sophisticated atmosphere. Instagram The area is known for its energetic atmosphere, making it a prime destination for a night out. Reddit

Culinary Delights in Downtown Orlando

Downtown Orlando is a haven for foodies, boasting a variety of culinary experiences from quick bites to elevated dining. Taco Kat is a highly recommended spot for authentic and flavorful tacos, often described as a hidden gem. TikTok For those craving tamales, the Hourglass District is a must-visit, with options like Birria and Al Pastor tamales, plus delicious churros and conchas. TikTok

For a more refined dining experience with a view, consider The Citrus Club, which offers an old-school ambiance and is part of the 'Magical Dining' month promotions, providing a chance to enjoy a special menu. Reddit The area also caters to coffee lovers and those seeking unique beverage experiences, with events like 'The Coffee Fiesta' often featuring multiple rooms and DJs. Instagram Whether you're looking for street food or a sit-down meal, Downtown Orlando's food scene has something to satisfy every palate.

Free and Budget-Friendly Activities

Exploring Downtown Orlando doesn't have to break the bank. Lake Eola Park is a fantastic free resource, offering beautiful scenery, walking paths, and the chance to feed the iconic swans. Reddit+1 It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. For art enthusiasts, CityArts provides free admission to its galleries, showcasing a diverse range of local and regional artwork. Reddit

The Downtown Library is another excellent free option for browsing books, newspapers, and magazines, offering a quiet escape. Reddit On Sundays, the Farmer's Market at Lake Eola is a vibrant place to experience local culture and vendors without spending a dime, though you might be tempted by the fresh produce or crafts. Reddit Keep an eye out for special events like '3rd Thursday,' which often feature free art walks and community activities, making it easy to enjoy the city's cultural offerings on a budget. Reddit

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