How to spend a day in Downtown Orlando, Florida

When people hear Orlando they likely think of theme parks. As a Disney aficionado myself who has visited every Disney theme park in the world, Walt Disney World and the Universal Theme Parks are certainly at the top of my list, but what about the city itself? So many people never venture into Downtown Orland itself but on my most recent trip, we decided to explore the city and see exactly what it has to offer. Whether you’re staying nearby or at one of Westgate’s Orlando resorts, this guide will help you make the most of a day in Downtown Orlando. Here’s everything I suggest to make the most of a day in Downtown Orlando City.

Visit the Orange County Regional History Center

Housed in a restored 1927 Courthouse, the Orange County Regional History Centre covers over 12000 years of Floridian history. The vast displays cover a wide region of the county’s history.

Check out the food

There are a frankly eye-watering amount of restaurants to choose from in downtown Orlando! With foods from around the world it can be hard to choose but make sure you get some of Orlando’s specialities, shrimp, gator and of course Key Lime Pie!

Don’t miss the nightlife

Downtown Orlando is a city that is big on nightlife! With bars covering everything from video games, to tiki bars, to rooftop bars there’s something for everyone no matter what your tipple. But there’s no need to end the party there, so why not check out one of their nightclubs if you want to keep the party going?

Check out the City Arts art gallery

There are eight art galleries here and all are worth spending some time at. They cover a wide range of different art and artists and it’s ever-changing so there’s always something new to see.

Catch a concert, movie or play at the Walt Disney World Amphitheatre

Situated on Lake Eola this outdoor concert and theater venue was donated to the city of Orlando by the Walt Disney Company in 1989. Aesthetically it’s 1950s scalloped shell pastel dream and set beside the stunning Lake Eola fountain it’s a great place to unwind and catch a show.

And check out the rest of Lake Eola Park while you are there

With just under a mile of placent paths to walk around the lake it’s a great place for a stroll. You can also rent swan boats, watch the local birds and other wildlife, or just take in the stunning views of the lake and city skyline

Take in a comedy show

Downtown Orlando has no shortage of comedy clubs and bars so why not catch a show while you are in town? There’s sure to be something to make you laugh!

Or one of Downtown Orlando’s other performing arts venues

From Broadway musicals, to dances and plays you can catch it all at one of Downtown Orlando’s many theatres.

Head to the Wells’Built Museum of African American History & Culture

Learn more about Orlando’s African-American community and fight for civil rights in this compact but highly informative museum.

Download the City Unseen app

If you want to enhance your trip the City Unseen app brings the city to life using augmented reality. At various locations throughout the city, you will see areas where you can use these and bring art to life before your eyes.

Step back in time with the Historic District Walking Tour

Follow the map designed by Orlando’s City Council and historical preservation board to take in many of the area’s key historic points. During the walk, you will take in many key areas including the Old Orlando Railroad Depot, Tinker Building and Old Orange County Courthouse and lots more.

Heading there soon? Make sure you discover DTO! Live

If you are planning your trip to Downtown Orlando make sure you take the time to discover one of the DTO! Live performances. Between now and June 2025 more than 800 arts and cultural events will be happening throughout the city. They are all free and cover everything from music to live art events. Check out the Downtown Orlando website to learn about what’s upcoming.

Check out a game

Sports are one of America’s biggest pastimes and exports, so it’s no surprise that there are plenty on offer here. Whether it’s catching Orlando Magic on the basketball court, watching one of the two football (or soccer as it is known in the US) teams, getting cosy while watching Ice Hockey or taking in an American football game, there’s something to see year-round.

Of course, none of this Orlando planning can even get started until you have your visas in order! For people who haven’t visited the US in a while, it can be easy to forget that you now need an ESTA to be approved before you can set foot in the United States of America. Before traveling I always check the OnTrialVisa website to see if where I am heading to go requires a visa, what information they would need and apply directly on the site. Make sure you apply well ahead of time to ensure you are covered.

Let me know what your plans are when you visit Orlando!