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10 Best Things to Do in SoDo Orlando

Last Updated on September 21, 2023

SoDo Orlando is a cool business district within a mile of Downtown Orlando that has plenty of things to do. The name “SoDo” is an abbreviation for “south of downtown,” and that is exactly where you will find it.

Photo source: orlando.gov

SoDo is one of the Orlando Main Street Districts located in the southeastern section of the I-4 and 408 corridors. There are many things to do in this area, like shopping, dining, and enjoying one of its walkable parks, so we thought we’d put together a guide that features some of our favorite recommendations.

Here are ten of the best things to do in SoDo Orlando:

1. Visit Wadeview Park

park view
Source: City of Orlando

Wadeview Park is a green space in the SoDo District, full of beautiful tall pine, cypress, and oak trees. The park has a playground, exercise trail, and picnic areas, making it a great place to spend some time and enjoy the Central Florida outdoors. Wadeview park is open sunrise to sunset. It also features pavilions that can be rented in advance if you would like.

Where is Wadeview Park?
500 East Harding Street, Orlando, FL 32806

2. Dine at Sodo Sushi Bar & Grill

sushi roll
Source: Sodo Sushi Bar & Grill

Sodo Sushi Bar & Grill is a fantastic option in the neighborhood for sushi lovers. The restaurant has a diverse selection of starters, soups, noodles, rolls, and desserts to choose from. There is even a vegetarian selection with vegetarian dishes and sushi rolls.

Where is Sodo Sushi Bar & Grill?

25 West Crystal Lake Street #175 Orlando, FL 32806

3. Shopping at SODO Shopping Center

outside shopping center
Source: Kimco Realty

South of Orlando Regional Medical Center, you will find the SODO Shopping Center off S. Orange Avenue. It is one of the biggest shopping centers in the area, with many stores to visit. There are large retail chains like Target and TJ Maxx, as well as small stores and Orlando Health locations, all in close proximity.

Where is SODO Shopping Center?

S Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32806

4. Get a Bite at Brick & Fire

pizza beside oven
Source: Brick & Fire

Brick & Fire Pizza & Pasta Parlor is a SoDo restaurant that makes its dough by hand every day. And as the name suggests, all of the pizzas are fired directly on the brick. Check out the menu, which includes a large variety of house and specialty pizzas, as well as salads, soups, plates of pasta, and other entrees.

Where is SODO Brick & Fire Pizza Parlor?

1621 S Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32806

5. Visit the Pulse Interim Memorial

people at Pulse Memorial
Source: onePULSE Foundation

The Pulse Interim Memorial is located on S. Orange Avenue. It is a place for love and quiet reflection for the 49 lives lost in the horrible attack on June 12, 2016 at Pulse Nightclub. The memorial includes a ribbon wall of photographs, an offering wall, and a green space. 

Where is the Pulse Interim Memorial?

1912 S Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32806

6. Try Pub Fare at Delaney’s Tavern

people on restaurant patio
Source: Delaney’s Tavern Facebook page

Delaney’s Tavern is a restaurant that serves new American cuisine. Located across the street from Orlando Health, Delaney’s menu includes soups, salads, tasty shareables, and delectable main courses. And it wouldn’t be a tavern without a great selection of drinks! There are craft cocktails, wine, and craft beers. 

Where is Delaney’s Tavern?

1315 S Orange Ave Suite B, Orlando, FL 32806

7. See Historic Greenwood Cemetery

view of cemetery
Source: Greenwood Cemetery

Greenwood Cemetery is a historic cemetery located by Mills Avenue and the 408. It was established in 1880 as a much-needed permanent burial location for the people of Orlando. The cemetery is now owned and operated by the City of Orlando. Take a walk along the pathways and learn a bit about the people that are buried here and the lives they led.

Where is Greenwood Cemetery?

1603 Greenwood St, Orlando, FL 32801

8. Get a Burger at Johnny’s Fillin’ Station

outdoor dining space
Source: Johnny’s Fillin’ Station Facebook page

Johnny’s Fillin’ Station is an American restaurant and bar that arguably has some of the best burgers in the neighborhood. Located on Ferncreek Avenue and Michigan Street, Johnny’s offers an expanse menu of starters, sandwiches, burgers, and desserts. Their burgers are award-winning and come with a lot of different toppings, like mushrooms, red onion, and caramelized onion.

Where is Johnny’s Fillin’ Station?

2631 S Ferncreek Ave, Orlando, FL 32806

9. Shop at East West Records

shop exterior
Source: East West Records

East West Records is Orlando’s oldest record store. Located on S. Orange Avenue, the store opened in 1971 and sells a great selection of new and used records. Make sure to stop by for a bit of nostalgia and leave with some awesome records!

Where is East West Records?

4895 S Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32806

10. Be Plant-Curious at Hungry Pants

interior of restaurant
Source: Hungry Pants

Another delicious dining option in the SoDo District is Hungry Pants. The restaurant offers a “plant-curious” menu for those who are interested in trying dishes with balanced vegetables and plant-based protein sources in a fast-fine setting. Hungry Pants has a variety of comfort foods on the menu providing a delicious dining experience for everyone.

Where is Hungry Pants?

3421 S Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32806

If you enjoyed this article about SoDo Orlando and are looking for a few other recommendations, check out these suggestions:

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