Last Updated on August 1, 2023
People worldwide know Orlando as home to over a dozen world-class theme parks.
While many visitors will head straight to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, or Sea World, we prefer sharing the hidden gems and local hot spots you may not have heard of.
See Orlando As a Local
On your next trip to Orlando, experience “The City Beautiful” by visiting these seven different neighborhoods.
We’ll give you a local’s perspective and a new spin on Things To Do in Orlando.
Orlando Milk District
The Milk District of Orlando first got its name when Thomas Gilbert Lee (that’s right, T.G. Lee) opened a milking parlor in 1934.
This was considered one of the downtown Orlando area’s first attractions, and visitors watched the cows get milked by the machines. The plant processes over 230,000 gallons of milk every day.
Today, the Milk District has transformed into a hip, bohemian district with plenty of local shopping, live music, and restaurants.
Se7en Bites
One popular local spot to grab a bite to eat is Se7en Bites, owned and operated by Trina Gregory-Propst and her wife Va.
They have appeared on a Food Network episode of “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives” along with Guy Fieri himself.
If you visit their restaurant, you’ll be able to enjoy delightful desserts and nostalgic Southern comfort food with a modern twist (don’t miss the chicken pot pie).]
Se7en Bites Address: 617 N Primrose Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
Drunken Monkey Coffee Bar
If you want a delicious cup of coffee, stop by Drunken Monkey Coffee Bar. This low-key cafe has delightful coffee and plenty of quick-bite options for vegans and vegetarians.
We recommend Mojo Jojo Iced Coffee (a coffee with sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, and cinnamon).
The best part of Drunken Monkey? There’s a drive-thru if you want to stop by from the comfort of your own vehicle.
Drunken Monkey Coffee Bar Address: 444 N Bumby Ave., Orlando, FL 32803
Tasty Takeover
The Milk District has been a huge food truck enthusiast since 2011 when they launched Tasty Tuesdays.
Now known as Tasty Takeover, this area loves hosting multiple food trucks every week, offering diverse food options.
If you’re not a big fan of surprises, they release their schedule beforehand so that you can plan accordingly.
Tasty Takeover Address: 2424. E Robinson St., Orlando, FL 32803
A La Cart
Tasty Takeover inspired another Milk District food truck favorite called A La Cart.
Similar to Tasty Takeover, A La Cart has rotating food vendors, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
It’s a great place to enjoy delicious food and beer, cider, wine, and coffee on tap in their cozy outdoor courtyard.
A La Cart Address: 609 Irvington Ave., Orlando, FL 32803
Plaza Live
If live music is your jam, don’t miss the historic Plaza Live, one of Orlando’s oldest theaters!
The venue was known as the Rocking Chair Movie Theatre (Rocky Horror Picture Show was a must-do midnight fixture in the 1980s).
The interior was gutted to make it a more versatile venue. Today it hosts the Orlando Philharmonic as well as a wide range of well-known national comedy acts and musicians.
Plaza Live Address: 425 N Bumby Ave., Orlando, FL 32803
Southern Craft
However, if you’re looking for impromptu live music in the Milk District, you have multiple options at some local bars, including Southern Craft.
Southern Craft Address: 2405 E South St., Orlando, FL 32803
Etoile Boutique
A great spot to “shop til you drop” in the Milk District includes Etoile Boutique, which has been a style hotspot in the Orlando area since 2006.
You can purchase handmade jewelry, local brands, vintage clothes, accessories, and more in this trendy shop.
Etoile Boutique Address: 2424 E Robinson St, Orlando, FL 32803
Retro Records
Speaking of vintage, make sure you don’t miss a pitstop at nearby Retro Records, where you can pick out new and used records, tapes, CDs, memorabilia, and more.
Retro Records Address: 59 N Bumby Ave., Orlando, FL 32803
SoDo District
The SoDo District is a combination of the words ‘South’ and ‘Downtown’, and as the name suggests, it is located just south of downtown Orlando.
SoDo is known for beautiful neighborhoods, expansive lakes, parks, and a welcoming atmosphere.
To get out and enjoy the weather, we suggest one of the many beautiful family-friendly parks and trails in the SoDo area.
Parks in SoDo
Lake Davis Park is perfect for a quick stroll around the beautiful Lake Davis. This 0.7-mile trail features stunning views. It is mostly shaded by trees – perfect for those warm summer days.
Another option is the ninety-acre Cypress Grove Park, located on Lake Jessamine.
While you can run and play sand volleyball, one of the best features is the stunning 1925 mansion.
You could see a beautiful bride waiting to get married since the estate is also a popular wedding venue.
If you’re looking for the perfect place to take your furry best friend for a walk, stop by the serene Lake Cherokee Park.
Or, if you’re looking for a great outdoor workout, the nearby Al Coith Park features an outdoor fitness station to build those muscles in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Last, but certainly not least, is one of Orlando’s most popular parks, Wadeview Park.
This park is perfect for a family outing or picnic with its multiple picnic pavilions and playground.
- Lake Davis Park Address: 723 S Lake Davis Dr., Orlando, FL 32806
- Cypress Grove Park Address: 290 Holden Ave., Orlando, FL 32839
- Lake Cherokee Park Address: 474 Palmer St., Orlando, FL 32801
- Al Coith Park Address: 901 Delaney Ave., Orlando, FL 32801
- Wadeview Park Address: 500 East Harding St., Orlando, FL 32806
Places to Eat in SoDo
After your “walk in the park”, refuel with the delicious Double D or Guaco Taco from Gringos Locos, voted Orlando’s Best Taco, Best Nachos, and Best Late-Night Restaurant by Best of Orlando.
While they have multiple locations in the Orlando area, this local favorite is a must-visit!
Another dining option is The Waterfront, voted Orlando’s Best Al Fresco Dining By USA Today.
They pride themselves on providing “beach vibes without the drive” due to their location on Lake Jennie Jewell. Make sure to sit outside and relax with the breeze off of the water.
Another can’t-miss gem of Sodo is Vanbarry’s Public House. While they have tasty food and drinks, we love that they provide board games for the table.
You can also enjoy live music, and even roast marshmallows outside at their fire pit once nightfall hits.
- Gringos Locos Address: Multiple Locations
- The Waterfront Address: 4201 S Orange Ave., Orlando, FL 32806
- Vanbarry’s Public House Address: 4120 S Orange Ave., Orlando, FL 32806
College Park
Another great neighborhood in the Orlando area is College Park, where many streets are named after colleges and universities (ironically, there are no colleges in College Park).
While driving through College Park, you will notice street names like Princeton, Harvard, and Yale.
Places to Eat in College Park
Gabriel’s Sub Shop
For a great meal in College Park, we suggest a stop at one of the original fixtures of the area, Gabriel’s Sub Shop!
Paul and Doris Gabriel opened the shop in 1958. It has remained a popular spot for the students at Edgewater High School and the local community ever since.
Today, their son Kevin, his wife Delaine, and their son Kyle run the shop and continue serving spectacular submarine sandwiches.
Gabriel’s Sub Shop Address: 3006 Edgewater Dr., Orlando, FL 32804
Christo’s Cafe
Christo’s Cafe is another long-time favorite of the area, which serves traditional American fare with a few Greek favorites as a nod to the original owner.
Come hungry because the portions are huge and the prices are low.
Christo’s Cafe Address: 1815 Edgewater Dr., Orlando, FL 32804
Tap Room Restaurant at Dubsdread
If you’re looking for a unique meal in a stunning setting, stop by the Tap Room Restaurant at Dubsdread.
The Tap Room is located on the Dubsdread Golf Course in a historic 1924 building made with vintage wood.
They’ve won awards from Orlando Magazine, the Orlando Sentinel, the Orlando Business Journal, and the College Park Community Paper, to name just a few.
We suggest dining on the Verandah for breathtaking views of the golf course.
Tap Room at Dubsdread Address: 549 W Par St., Orlando, FL 32804
Orange Cycle
For some great shopping, we suggest Orange Cycle, which has been a part of College Park since 1972.
Whether you’re a beginner or an expert cyclist, the staff at Orange Cycle can help you choose the right bicycle and accessories for your ride.
Orange Cycle Address: 2204 Edgewater Dr., Orlando, FL 32804
College Park Publix Market
When you see their unique Publix, you’ll know you’re in the College Park area.
The supermarket has been an iconic part of the community since the 1940s and has only been remodeled a handful of times.
It’s a smaller store than most Publix and has fewer grocery items than others in the chain. What it lacks in product selection, it makes up in ambiance.
It’s like stepping back in time but with modern conveniences.
Publix in College Park Address: 2015 Edgewater Dr, Orlando, FL 32804
Loch Haven Park
When in Orlando, nothing beats the nearby fun-filled Loch Haven Park.
You’ll never be bored on a visit, whether you stroll on the paved paths or stop by one of the businesses only a few blocks away.
Experience arts and culture at multiple museums, theaters, and art museums.
Loch Haven Park Address: 777 E Princeton St., Orlando, FL 32803
See “The Mayor” & Museums
One of Florida’s oldest and largest oak trees, “The Mayor,” is in Loch Haven Park.
For hands-on scientific learning for all ages, visit the Orlando Science Center. The whole family will enjoy four floors of educational exhibits, and you may even see a dinosaur.
Learn about the history of Orlando firefighters at a former two-story red brick fire station, the Orlando Fire Museum.
See the beautiful art of Earl Cunningham at the Mennello Museum of American Art. This quaint museum is located in Howard Phillips’ house and features paintings by other contemporary American artists.
Experience even more stunning art at the Orlando Museum of Art, within walking distance of the other museums.
- Orlando Science Center Address: 777 E Princeton St., Orlando, FL 32803
- Orlando Fire Museum Address: 814 E Rollins St., Orlando, FL 32803
- Mennello Museum of American Art Address: 900 E Princeton St., Orlando, FL 32803
- Orlando Museum of Art Address: 2416 N Mills Ave., Orlando, FL 32803
Two Orlando Theatres
In Loch Haven Park, you can also experience a musical or play at two different theaters.
Take the whole family for a show at the Orlando Repertory Theatre, a charming theatre with professional shows for younger audiences.
Orlando Shakes is the other theatre in the Loch Haven Park area. This theatre not only showcases Shakespeare shows but also contemporary plays and musicals.
Both theaters are perfect for a night out on the town.
- The Orlando Repertory Theatre Address: 1001 E Princeton St., Orlando, FL 32803
- Orlando Shakes Address: 812 E Rollins St., Orlando, FL 32803
Orlando Urban Trail
Bring your sneakers because the Orlando Urban Trail is a great way to exercise and enjoy this area.
The trail runs from Lake Highland through Loch Haven Park to Mead Garden in Winter Park.
The trail connects six lakes, Orlando Cultural Park, and the Gaston Edwards Trail.
Thornton Park
The Thornton Park district of Orlando transports you to Europe with its stylish eateries, decorative fountains, and stunning oak trees.
This section of Orlando has even been named the “Downtown for Grown-Ups”, due to the contrast of laidback nightlife compared to the downtown area.
For a delightful Sunday Brunch, stop by Southern Contemporary Cuisine (AKA SoCo), winner of Florida Trend Magazine’s 2020 Golden Spoon Award.
While they have a delicious dinner menu, we recommend the weekend brunch.
You can try favorites like Chicken-N-French Toast, shrimp and grits, and bottomless mimosas here.
If you’re looking for a lighter meal, pick up a pastry, coffee, or quick bite from Benjamin French Bakery & Cafe.
This local cafe is owned by Benjamin and his wife Nathalie, who wanted to share their culture and food with Orlando after they fell in love with the Thornton Park area.
- Southern Contemporary Cuisine Address: 629 E Central Blvd., Orlando, FL 32801
- Benjamin French Bakery & Cafe Address: 716 E Washington St., Orlando, FL 32801
Nightlife in Thornton Park
For evening entertainment, The Abbey showcases comedians, cabaret acts, and live music in a unique and intimate setting.
Not only will you see a great show, but the chic lounge also has fantastic food and drinks.
Stop by Thornton Park on the second Thursday of each month for the Wine + Art Walk.
This street party stops by 25 businesses; for just $15 you get a glass and a map of specialty drinks in the area.
The best part? Most weeks the funds go to a local charity.
The Abbey Address: 100 S Eola Dr. Unit 100, Orlando, FL 32801
Before the drinks, grab a delicious dinner at the ever-popular Graffiti Junktion.
This burger bar is a staple of Orlando and was voted the #1 Best Burger in Orlando by Big 7 Travel.
While there are multiple locations, we suggest a stop by the original one in Thornton Park.
Graffiti Junktion Address: Multiple Locations
Mills 50
One of Orlando’s oldest neighborhoods is Mills 50, one of the most popular districts.
The area gets its name from the two intersecting roads through the district: Mills Avenue and Colonial Drive (aka State Road 50).
You’ll know you’re in the right spot when you begin to see the beautiful colorful murals and the diverse line-up of restaurants that line the streets.
Places to Eat & Drink
A trio of our favorite eateries in Mills 50 are within walking distance of each other.
TORI TORI is a unique Japanese pub locally owned by chef Sean “Sonny” Nguyen. His vision was to combine a modern-day cocktail bar with traditional Japanese pub food.
Next door is King Bao, a laid-back restaurant where you can get traditional Asian bao with unique and tasty fillings!
If you’ve never had bao before, think of a taco, but instead of a shell, it’s a soft and airy steamed bun. We recommend the Firecracker Shrimp or WTF (What the Fish) bao.
Be sure to wash it down with an authentic Asian tea from Royaltea, located next door to King Bao and around the corner from Chuan Lu Garden Orlando.
Even though they are a franchise business, we love that they chose Orlando as the very first U.S. location … Royaltea and the whole fresh tea concept is HUGE in China.
Don’t miss any of their drinks that include fresh fruit.
- TORI TORI Address: 720 N Mills Ave., Orlando, FL 32803
- King Bao Address: Multiple Locations
- Royaltea Address: Multiple Locations
- Chuan Lu Garden Address: 1101 E Colonial Dr., Orlando, FL 32803
Just down the road is another diverse restaurant with delicious flavors. Black Bean Deli is a Cuban cafe with all of your favorites from Cuban coffee to the traditional Cuban sandwich.
Black Bean Deli is unique due to owner Andres Corton’s dedication to blending his abuela’s recipes and flavors, Cuban traditions, and serving it all in repurposed buildings important to the area.
Speaking of Cuban sandwiches, check out our favorites throughout Florida with our best Cuban sandwich guide.
Black Bean Deli Address: Multiple Locations
Leu Gardens
After your delicious lunch, walk it all off at the beautiful oasis known as Leu Gardens.
This 50-acre botanical garden and historic on-site home was the former home of Mr. Harry P. Leu and his wife, Mary Jane, until 1961.
They then donated the entire gardens to the City of Orlando. Stroll on the self-guided tour and visit a tropical rainforest, Florida’s largest formal rose garden, a butterfly garden, and more.
They also host outdoor movie nights monthly, where you’ll often see owls checking out the films as well.
Leu Gardens Address: 1920 N Forest Ave., Orlando, FL 32803
Night in the Mills 50 District
Will’s Pub
If live music is your thing, spend an evening at Will’s Pub, an iconic piece of Mills 50 since 1995.
Orlandoans know it as one of the most recognizable dive bars in the area, but it is held in high regard due to its fantastic lineup of live bands.
Wally’s Liquors
Interested in enjoying an adult beverage?
We suggest the iconic Wally’s Liquors, a staple of the area since 1954.
Lineage Craft Coffee Roasters
If you prefer coffee to alcohol, we recommend the nearby Lineage Craft Coffee Roasters.
Try delicious roasts from Kenya, Ethiopia, and Colombia, or stick to a classic cappuccino or mocha.
- Will’s Pub Address: 1042 N Mills Ave., Orlando, FL 32803
- Wally’s Liquors Address: 1001 N Mills Ave., Orlando, FL 32803
- Lineage Craft Coffee Roasters Address: Multiple Locations
Downtown Orlando & Lake Eola
While downtown Orlando is known for its nightlife, you may not know that the area has great historical significance.
The town was known as Jernigan after Aaron Jernigan built a post office in the area. He was relieved of his command, and the town was renamed Orlando in 1875.
The main feature of Downtown Orlando is the iconic Lake Eola Park, complete with the Linton E. Allen Memorial Fountain at the center.
Rent a swan-shaped paddleboat or stroll around the 0.9-mile walkway surrounding the lake.
If you visit on Sunday, stop by the Orlando Farmers Market from 10 am to 3 pm. This market happens year-round. You can pick up produce, pottery, jewelry, crafts, and more.
The Art Orlando self-guided tour is near Lake Eola. Stop by the Downtown Orlando Information Center to grab a map.
You can head out on a scavenger hunt searching for nine contemporary art sculptures throughout the downtown area.
We don’t want to give away the locations, but we can guarantee that this tour will wow you with its amazing art and also help you get to know the downtown area.
Museum buffs will want to stop by the Orange County Regional History Center in a historic courthouse.
This museum is a Smithsonian affiliate and has four floors of exhibits featuring over 12,000 years of Florida history.
The best part? Orange County Regional History Center is a Florida Time Traveler’s Network member. Learn more from the Florida Museums website.
Orange County Regional History Center Address: 65 E Central Blvd., Orlando, FL 32801
Where to Stay in Downtown Orlando
We recommend visiting the stunningly beautiful Grand Bohemian Hotel for a night out on the town.
Mood lighting, carved sculptures, and bold draperies all contribute to the swanky atmosphere.
The Bösendorfer Lounge at the hotel is great to enjoy a craft cocktail, or stay and enjoy some of Orlando’s only live jazz music.
Don’t miss the Imperial Grand Bösendorfer piano in the lounge – it’s one of only a few in the world.
Grand Bohemian Hotel Address: 325 S Orange Ave., Orlando, FL 32801
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