Guide to Downtown Orlando

Discover the heart of the city

While known for its famous world-class theme parks, Orlando is made up of distinct neighborhoods with world-class dining, compelling culture, and dynamic nightlife. Its vibrant Downtown area contains all the above. At the city’s heart, Downtown Orlando pulses with an energy that can be found beyond the thrill of a rollercoaster.

Emy Rodriguez Flores & Jennifer Simonson

16 June 2023

Welcome to Downtown Orlando, a bustling urban oasis that beckons travelers to explore its vibrant streets, rich culture, and diverse culinary scene. Often overshadowed by the city's world-renowned theme parks, Downtown Orlando offers urban charm blended with Southern hospitality. As you wander far from the tourist crowds, you'll discover a mix of historic charm and modern sophistication, where cobblestone streets lead to trendy boutiques, art galleries, and sidewalk cafes. Downtown Orlando offers an abundance of activities for all ages, from tranquil strolls around Lake Eola Park to the interactive exhibits at the Orlando Science Center. Art enthusiasts will revel in the captivating performances at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts and the Orlando Museum of Art, while sports fans can catch a game at the Amway Center or Exploria Stadium. Foodies can embark on a culinary journey through Downtown's eclectic mix of restaurants, while the energetic nightlife is a lure for the nocturnal. By day, the serene Lake Eola Park invites leisurely strolls, by night the lake reflects the lights of the city. Whether you're seeking a quiet evening at a craft brewery or a night of dancing at a rooftop lounge, Downtown Orlando has it all.

Getting to Downtown Orlando

Reaching Downtown Orlando is a breeze, with a multitude of convenient transportation options at your disposal. The neighborhood is 13 miles northeast of Orlando International Airport. From the airport, you can easily rent a car and drive the 20 minutes it takes to get there. If you do not want the responsibility of renting a car, taxis can be found on the Ground Transpiration Level at both Terminals A and B. The fare is typically between $35 and $45 before tip.

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For those preferring public transport, the Lynx Bus service connects the airport to Downtown Orlando with Route 11. A one-way ticket costs $2 and can be purchased on the website or directly on the bus. While the bus is an excellent cost-saving option for those on a budget, the route does take about 40 minutes. Lastly, several hotels offer door-to-door shuttle services to and from the airport. Be sure to check with your hotel at the time of booking.

What to see and do Downtown Orlando

Explore Lake Eola Park

Park for free

Given Lake Eola Park's prime location in the center of Downtown Orlando, parking can occasionally be a challenge. Complimentary street parking is available on the park's east side. In case it is occupied, metered parking can be found on Central Boulevard and Rosalind Avenue, or you can opt for one of the several paid parking garages nearby.

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Orlando, Lake Eola Park serves as a tranquil urban retreat. It is a perfect spot for family-friendly events and budget-conscious travelers. Visitors can enjoy a serene walk along the mile-long paved path surrounding the lake, take a romantic swan boat ride, feed real swans, or have a picnic on the lush lawns. Every Sunday, the Lake Eola Farmers Market provides an opportunity to sample local produce, crafts, and cuisine, while the Walt Disney Amphitheater hosts various live performances throughout the year. The centerpiece of the lake is a beautiful fountain. Resembling a flying saucer, this iconic fountain often lights up in various colors to commemorate special events.

Step back in time

History buffs have five stores of Orlando and Florida history to uncover in the Orange County History Center. Housed in a historic 1920s courthouse, this museum explores the area’s rich past through various exhibits featuring indigenous history, pioneer life, and the area’s transformation into a global tourist destination. Touted as one of Florida’s most kid-friendly, the museum has both permanent and traveling exhibitions on display at any given time.

Explore Thornton Park

If you get a hankering for something sweet while exploring Thornton Park, stop by Dolce. The restaurant has an extensive dessert menu that includes my favorites, RC Creme Brulee and the Butterfinger Nutella Waffle Tower. The added sugar rush will enliven a sluggish afternoon.

Thornton Park, a chic enclave in Downtown Orlando, exudes a captivating fusion of bohemian elegance and urban sophistication. Spend an afternoon strolling its cobblestone-streets to discover trendy boutiques, art havens, and animated sidewalk cafes. A cornucopia of dining options awaits, from Soco Thornton Park’s Southern comfort cuisine to Shari Sushi Lounge’s creative sushi fare to Anthony’s Thornton Park New York style pizza As night falls, the area’s convivial bars come alive with music, ensuring an engaging evening. After hours, grab a craft beer at The Falcon Bar & Gallery or Cavo’s Bar & Kitchen.

Where to stay in Downtown Orlando

Choosing to stay in Downtown Orlando places travelers in the midst of the city’s dynamic ambiance, with cultural hotspots, diverse culinary experiences, and a thriving nightlife scene all within close proximity. Downtown also has convenient transport links, making it an ideal base for exploring the region’s theme parks and other attractions. The neighborhood offers an abundance of hotel choices that cater to the preferences of any traveler.

Art lovers will want to stay at the Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando. Not only does the hotel offer luxury accommodations, but it also houses an impressive gallery of contemporary art, turning your stay into a private, immersive art experience. Alternatively, the boutique-style Aloft Orlando Downtown offers a trendy, budget-friendly option with a lively bar scene. For a romantic setting, The Eo Inn is a boutique hotel known for its rooftop terrace with a hot tub that offers an intimate setting and stunning views of the city.

Who should stay in Downtown Orlando

Downtown Orlando appeals to the culturally curious traveler who enjoys urban exploration. Ground zero for urban adventurers, food connoisseurs, and art devotees, this lively hub offers an electric mix of experiences. Yet, the area’s green spaces and community-focused events, such as farmers’ markets, also appeal to visitors seeking a touch of local charm. Whether it is families looking to escape the overly commercialized feel of the theme-park districts, couples looking for a romantic getaway full of delicious food, or singles wanting to explore a dynamic city center, Downtown Orlando offers a rich experience for everyone.

About the author

Emy Rodriguez Flores & Jennifer SimonsonOur Orlando guide was written by two brilliant authors: Jennifer Simonson is a proud Texan native who has travelled extensively around The United States, with Orlando being a staple on her tours. In fourth grade she wrote an essay proclaiming her lifelong commitment to exploring the globe and has not looked back since. During her travels she loves engaging conversations with strangers, finding the best ice cream, trying her hand at surfing and nature-filled hikes. Emy Rodriguez Flores is a travel journalist who grew up in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, and Orlando, Florida. His dad was a pilot, which encouraged him to travel the world suitcase first and questions later. Before he was ten, he developed a fear of small steps at Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica.