A grown-up’s guide to Orlando

Orlando might be famous for its mouse ears and roller coasters, but there’s plenty more to this city once you’ve outgrown the kiddie rides. From world-class dining and buzzing nightlife to outdoor adventures and cultural gems, there are endless things to do in Orlando for adults that don’t involve standing in line for a character meet-and-greet.

Away from the theme parks, you’ll discover a city that really knows how to entertain grown-ups. Think rooftop cocktails, live music, boutique shopping and lazy afternoons on crystal-clear springs. With so many Orlando activities for adults to choose from, you can tailor your trip to be as lively or as laid-back as you like.

Of course, this city comes alive after dark too. Whether you’re after slick rooftop bars, buzzing block parties or a full-scale dinner show, Orlando nightlife for adults rivals any major US city – with the added bonus of that Florida sunshine by day.

Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

Culture vultures, rejoice – Orlando isn’t all theme park thrills. The Dr. Phillips Center is the city’s crown jewel for the arts, hosting everything from Broadway blockbusters and ballet to live concerts and stand-up comedy.

The building itself is a stunner, all gleaming glass and modern design, and stepping inside feels like you’ve found Orlando’s sophisticated alter ego. Whether you’re in the mood for a night of Les Misérables-level drama, a string quartet, or even a cheeky comedy gig, this is the place where grown-up Orlando truly shines.

Enjoy Orlando's food & drink scene

If you thought Orlando was just burgers and turkey legs, think again. The city’s food and drink scene is a patchwork of eclectic districts, each with its own flavour. Head to the Mills 50 District for steaming bowls of pho and craft beer, dip into Winter Park for chic bistros and wine bars, or make tracks to the Milk District for street food and indie vibes.

Rooftop cocktail lounges dot the skyline, while craft breweries keep things chilled at ground level. In short: Orlando’s culinary world is just as thrilling as any theme park – and easier on the stomach.

Visit Lake Eola Park

Right in the heart of downtown, Lake Eola Park is Orlando’s green escape – and a surprisingly charming one at that. By day, it’s all swan boats, jogging trails and shady picnics; by night, the city skyline twinkles across the water, with the illuminated fountain stealing the show. If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Orlando, this should be right up there.

It’s one of those places that makes you pause and realise Orlando isn’t just about attractions – it’s about atmosphere. Grab a coffee, stroll the lakeside, and if you’re lucky enough to be there for a night-time concert or movie in the park, you’ll see the city at its most enchanting.

Get active at Wekiwa Springs State Park

For those who like their thrills powered by paddles rather than hydraulics, Wekiwa Springs State Park is a must. Just a short drive from the city, it’s home to crystal-clear waters perfect for canoeing or kayaking.

Glide past lush riverbanks, spot the occasional turtle or heron, and soak up a version of Florida that’s far removed from neon lights and theme park queues. The springs themselves are ideal for a cooling dip, and the network of hiking and biking trails means you can really make a day of it. Call it Orlando’s natural antidote to adrenaline overload.

See Orlando from above in a hot air balloon

If you’ve only seen Orlando from roller coasters or pool loungers, you’re missing out. A sunrise hot air balloon ride gives you a whole new perspective – drifting peacefully over lakes, forests and citrus groves as the city slowly wakes below you.

There’s no adrenaline here, just the gentle whoosh of the burner and the kind of views that make you quietly smug about getting up so early. With Champagne toasts often included in the package, it’s one of the most grown-up ways to experience central Florida – and not a cartoon character in sight...

Shop ’til you drop at The Mall at Millenia

Forget the tacky souvenirs – The Mall at Millenia is where Orlando does serious retail therapy. This glossy shopping temple is home to big names like Chanel, Gucci and Louis Vuitton, alongside American favourites such as Apple and Macy’s. The atmosphere is pure indulgence, with polished marble floors and a distinctly grown-up clientele.

Even if your budget doesn’t stretch to designer handbags, window-shopping here is an event in itself. And with chic cafés and restaurants dotted throughout, you can refuel between splurges. Consider it an attraction in its own right – only with shopping bags instead of roller coasters.

Enjoy a night of partying at Wall Street Plaza

When the sun goes down, Wall Street Plaza turns Orlando into one big open-air block party. This buzzing downtown spot is a cluster of bars and clubs all spilling into a shared courtyard, where live DJs and themed events keep the energy high.

It’s the perfect grown-up playground – cocktails flowing, dance floors hopping, and a crowd that knows how to let loose. Whether you want a craft beer with mates or a wild night of dancing, you’ll find it here. Just pace yourself – Wall Street Plaza has a way of making “one drink” last until sunrise. The Orlando nightlife can be legendary…

Relax in All Inclusive luxury at Discovery Cove

Discovery Cove is Orlando’s answer to grown-up paradise: an all-inclusive day resort where you can swim through tropical lagoons, snorkel with rays, or simply float down a lazy river. The best part? Entry includes food, drinks, and cocktails all day, so you can lounge with a piña colada in hand between dips.

It’s far calmer than the neighbouring theme parks, with a cap on visitor numbers that makes it feel almost exclusive. Whether you mingle with the wildlife or just nap in a hammock, Discovery Cove is Orlando’s ultimate chill-out zone for adults who’ve earned their downtime. There will be families here too, but you can easily tune them out if you’re looking for a quieter space.

Explore the bars, restaurants and shops of CityWalk

Universal’s CityWalk is often billed as “the epicenter of awesome,” and for once the marketing hype isn’t far off. By day, it’s a lively mix of shops and cafés, but after dark the energy shifts into full-on entertainment mode. Think themed restaurants, buzzing bars, live music, mini-golf, and even a giant cinema.

It’s like an adults-only theme park for eating, drinking and socialising – with no rides required. Whether you fancy sushi, margaritas, or just people-watching with a cocktail in hand, CityWalk delivers the kind of night out that proves Orlando knows how to party.

Head to Disney – it’s not just for kids!

Sure, Disney World is a childhood dream, but it’s also got plenty for grown-ups who want more than parades and princesses. The parks are stacked with high-octane rides – Space Mountain, Expedition Everest, and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind will test even the bravest thrill-seeker.

Over at Epcot, “drinking around the world” is a rite of passage, sampling cocktails and craft beers from 11 different pavilions. Add in gourmet dining, luxury hotels, and after-dark fireworks that feel more romantic than childish, and suddenly Disney looks a lot less like babysitting duty and more like a brilliant adult adventure.

You’ll need a good base for an adults Orlando trip, especially if you’re partaking in the rooftop bars and late-night dining around the city. So check out our picks for the best Orlando hotels, including last-minute offers that will have you setting off for the sunshine state ASAP!