When most people think of Orlando, they immediately picture Disney World and theme parks, but let’s be real: sometimes, you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of crowded attractions.
As a DINK couple, we try to steer as far away from kid zones as possible.
On our recent stay at Tropical Palms Resort, a charming tiny house community in Kissimmee, a short drive from Orlando, we found it surprisingly tricky to find things to do that didn’t involve the usual Disney-related chaos.
But fear not; there’s so much more to explore in Orlando, perfect for adults seeking a more laid-back, relaxing experience.
Orlando, Florida Activities for Adults (Not Disney)
We thought we’d share our favorite Orlando activities for adults that don’t involve Disney, theme parks, or endless lines.
Whether you’re looking for quiet moments, unique dining spots, or a little adventure, we’ve got you covered!
Relaxing Experiences in Orlando for Couples
Orlando is surprisingly peaceful if you know where to look. Here are some of the best spots to enjoy a slower pace:
- Leu Gardens: If you’re in the mood for some quiet time in a gorgeous setting, Leu Gardens is a must. The lush gardens are the perfect place for a stroll. You can easily spend a few hours getting lost in the serenity of it all.
- Lake Eola Park: A local gem in the downtown area, Lake Eola Park is perfect for a picnic or a peaceful boat ride. Rent a swan boat and glide around the lake, or just take the view from one of the park benches. It’s simple, but it’s the kind of relaxing experience we love.
- Spa Day: After a busy few days, there’s nothing better than self-care. We recommend the Waldorf Astoria Spa for a luxurious treatment or The Ritz-Carlton Spa for something truly special. A couple’s massage, anyone?
Unique Dining Experiences
Orlando has no shortage of fantastic food options, and while you’ll find all kinds of themed restaurants around town, we prefer the spots that offer something a little more unique:
- The Boathouse: Located in Disney Springs (but not a Disney park!), this waterfront restaurant serves up fresh seafood and has a fun vibe. You can even take a ride in an amphibious car for an extra adventure while you dine.
- The Ravenous Pig: Located in Winter Park, this gastropub is perfect for foodies looking to try creative twists on American comfort food. Pair it with a local craft beer, and you’ve got yourself a great night.
- The Wine Room on Park Avenue: If you’re a wine lover, you’ll appreciate the intimate ambiance of this wine bar. It’s the perfect spot for a date night, offering wine by the glass plus some delicious small bites.
Cultural + Artistic Activities
If you’re a fan of arts and culture, Orlando offers some fantastic places to explore:
- Orlando Museum of Art: This museum features seasonal exhibits, from contemporary works to classic pieces. It’s a great way to enjoy some quiet time while soaking in local art.
- Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts: Whether you’re into theater, ballet, or live concerts, you can find a live event you will enjoy. We caught a performance here; it was the perfect way to enjoy a night out in Orlando.
- Street Art in the Milk District: Orlando’s growing art scene is on full display in the Milk District, where you’ll find colorful murals and street art everywhere you look. It’s an easy way to spend a couple of hours wandering and snapping photos. We enjoyed an Eats Food Tour in the Milk District that we highly recommend.
Adventure Without the Theme Parks
For those of us who need a bit of adventure but want to avoid the crowds, here are some outdoorsy options:
- Wekiwa Springs State Park: We loved spending time at Wekiwa Springs—whether canoeing down the river or hiking one of the many trails, this spot offers a refreshing break from the city.
- ICON Park: No theme park is required to get incredible views of Orlando! The ICON Park Ferris wheel gives you a stunning panoramic view of the city and is a fun, relaxed way to take in the sights. Did we mention the food tour here, too? OMG! A must!
- The Escape Game Orlando: We had an absolute blast at one of Orlando’s many escape rooms. It’s the perfect way to test your problem-solving skills while bonding with your partner.
Nightlife for Adults
Orlando’s nightlife scene is diverse, with plenty of spots for couples to enjoy a drink and some live music:
- Rooftop Bars: After a day of exploring, we love grabbing a drink at one of Orlando’s many rooftop bars. The Courtesy Bar and AC Sky Bar are our favorites for drinks with a view.
- Brewery Tour: Orlando’s craft beer scene is thriving. We did a brewery tour in places like Ivanhoe Park Brewing and RockPit Brewing. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or just looking to try something new, you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy.
- Disney Springs: While Disney Springs isn’t technically a theme park, it has a great nightlife scene with bars, live music, and even a bowling alley. We found it to be a fun spot for a night out without the theme park madness.
Embrace Orlando Without the Mouse
Orlando is so much more than just Mickey Mouse and theme park madness.
We hope our list of activities helps you plan a peaceful, adventurous, and fun-filled getaway that’s perfect for adults looking to experience a different side of this vibrant city.
And if you are looking for a great place to stay, consider Tropical Palms in Kissimmee. It is a peaceful respite amidst the palms you will surely enjoy! If you are looking for an Airbnb in Kissimmee, you should read this.
FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions
Definitely! Check out the Milk District, where you can find cool cafes, bars, and quirky spots that are popular with locals. The Thornton Park District is another great place, offering a mix of cafes, local art shops, and trendy restaurants with a laid-back vibe perfect for an afternoon out.
If you’re flying into Orlando and planning to head to a nearby cruise port, you’re in luck—Port Canaveral, the closest cruise port, is about 45 minutes to an hour away from Orlando. It’s a straightforward drive along FL-528 E, making it easy to get there, whether you’re arriving the day before your cruise or the day of. Depending on traffic, you can expect the drive to be roughly 45 miles.
Absolutely! The Kennedy Space Center is about an hour’s drive from Orlando and is a fantastic day trip for space enthusiasts or anyone looking to experience something completely different. It’s an inspiring and unique experience that doesn’t involve theme parks but still offers plenty of excitement and learning.
