6 Romantic Spots in Orlando That Aren’t Disney World
When you think of visiting Orlando, the first thing that comes to mind is most likely Disney World. However, there are plenty of romantic spots outside the amusement park to see and explore with a special someone. Whether it’s for a day trip or an entire weekend getaway, there’s plenty for couples to do in Orlando that doesn’t require trading Mickey Mouse ears for roses and chocolates.
Struggling to find travel info on romantic getaways in Orlando that aren’t centered around a cute black mouse?
We’ve got you. There are plenty of other things to see and do in the city of Orlando that don’t involve theme parks and… screaming children. You and your one and only deserve a romantic vacation that’s just for the two of you, and Orlando has some hidden gems that are perfect for couples looking to spark some romance.
From spectacular views to unforgettable experiences, this Florida city has just about everything you’d expect from such a lively destination, all without ever setting foot inside a theme park! Keep reading as we explore some of the most romantic spots in Orlando that aren’t Disney World.
1. Wine and Dine at Winter Park
Spend the night enjoying scenic views and the eclectic dining scene of Winter Park. In this romantic atmosphere, you’ll find plenty of the best restaurants local to the area. We recommend the Hillstone Restaurant, which has a beautiful lakeside view and live music every night. After dinner, take a short walk to the Wine Room for a nightcap of your choice; with hundreds of wine tap options and “credits” available, you’ll find something to your taste.
To get the full Winter Park experience, be sure to check out the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour. You’ll get to tour Lake Osceola and see all the grand homes that line the shore. It’s a wonderful way to get to know the area and really take in all its beauty.
2. Horseback Riding at Hidden Palms Ranch
Hidden Palms Ranch is the perfect romantic getaway in Florida or a unique experience for an adventurous couple. Whether you’re a first-time rider or a seasoned equestrian, owner Beki Herrbach offers private trail rides for couples of all skill levels. Each ride is two hours long and includes beautiful views of Lake Jesup and a tranquil walk through lush palm tree-canopied trails.
Along your horseback journey, take in the sights of local wildlife like eagles, osprey, hawks, and white-tailed deer. The perfect time to go is during the late summer months when the sunflowers bloom, and the area bursts with color. If you and your better half are animal lovers and have been longing to connect with all that Mother Nature has to offer, Hidden Palms Ranch is a must!
3. Watch a Movie at Silver Moon Drive-In Theater
The Silver Moon Drive-In is the perfect place for a low-key date night. The retro vibe creates a charming atmosphere to cuddle up with your partner and watch a classic or latest movie on one of its two screens. You can stay in the car, but you also have the option to snuggle up outside on blankets or lawn chairs to enjoy some fresh air under the stars.
Offering up to four different movies every night of the week (excluding holidays), you’ll always have something new to watch. Remember to grab some of your favorite movie snacks at the concession stand for an added treat! On occasion, they also host special events featuring live entertainment, so it’s worth checking the schedule to see what they have in store. At the Silver Moon Drive-In, you can enjoy an affordable, romantic movie night experience you’ll never forget.
Favorite Places to Eat in Orlando
4. Take a Stroll Through Bok Tower Gardens
Located just an hour’s drive from downtown Orlando, Bok Tower Gardens is a must-visit destination when in Central Florida. Not only does it have the impressive Singing Tower, with its 60 bronze bells that play regularly throughout the day, but it also features lush green landscaping and over 50 acres of gardens to explore. The grounds are filled with a variety of native and introduced plants, as well as meandering pathways, spectacular sculptures, and ornamental pools.
Take a guided tour or explore the gardens on your own to discover hidden gems, such as the Mediterranean-style Pinewood Estate with its stunning architecture, the rare Carillon bells that play alongside the Singing Tower chimes, and the beautiful reflection pool.
For nature enthusiasts, there are abundant wildlife species to observe — from songbirds to alligators! A visit isn’t complete without stopping by the Café for a snack or lunch made with fresh ingredients from local farms and served in either outdoor seating or inside the historic 1933 Indoor Dining Room.
5. Hot Air Balloon Ride at Bob’s Balloons
For those looking for an unforgettable experience, Bob’s Balloons offers a sunrise hot air balloon ride that will take you on an incredible journey over the stunning Central Florida landscape. You’ll even have the opportunity to help set up the balloon with their crew before taking off into the sky and capturing aerial views of this beautiful state.
Once in the air, the flight typically lasts around an hour, allowing you to relax and take in the amazing sights below. As no two flights are the same, you’ll never know exactly where you’ll land until you get up there! But that only adds to the excitement of the experience. If you’d like to enjoy a private flight, Bob’s Balloons is happy to oblige, making it an excellent choice for couples looking to make the most of their romantic getaway.
6. Spa Day at The Ritz Carlton Spa
For a truly luxurious vacation, The Ritz-Carlton Spa is the perfect spot for the day. Start with a romantic couples massage to relax your mind and body, followed by an upgrade to the couples bath. Here, you’ll enjoy a luxurious soak in this private hydrotherapy hot tub with champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries as you enjoy this special time together.
After your massage and bath, you can take advantage of the stunning outdoor spa pool for some restorative lounging. Then, before you say goodbye for the day, make sure to stop by one of the hotel’s fabulous restaurants. Highball & Harvest and Knife & Spoon are must-tries for savoring the best of local flavors and having a romantic dinner under the stars. Overall, the Ritz-Carlton Spa is an ideal spot for couples to reconnect, relax, and truly enjoy each other’s company.
Most important tip: If you’re planning on exploring Orlando, one of the most important things to keep in mind is transportation. While renting a car may seem like the most convenient option, it can also be costly and may not always be necessary.
The main bus system in Orlando is known as LYNX, and it’s a great way to get around the city at an affordable cost. With over 60 routes and a flat fare of just $2 per ride, it’s an easy and budget-friendly way to travel. Plus, LYNX offers discount passes for visitors staying longer periods of time!
FAQ
When is the best time to visit Orlando?
The best times to visit Orlando are from January to early February and September through October. These are off-peak months when the kids are back in school, so you’ll enjoy the benefits of fewer crowds and lower hotel rates.
What food is Orlando known for?
Orlando offers a wide variety of unique dishes. Some of the most noteworthy are fried alligator, Cuban sandwiches, and fresh seafood like Apalachicola Oysters, conch, and fresh stone crab. They also have an array of delicious desserts such as strawberries, key lime pie, Disney’s Dole whip, and anything with Meyer lemons or oranges.
Does downtown Orlando have free parking?
Yes! However, not all parking is free. Most of Downtown Orlando uses meter parking, which charges $1.00 per hour and is enforced Monday through Saturday from 8 am to 6 pm.
You can also find parking at public lots and garages for around $2.80 an hour or $22.60 for the day. To find free parking, use the SpotAngels map to get live updates before arriving downtown. That way, you can avoid driving around in circles!
Where in Orlando can you find the most alligators?
Alligators are a must-see when visiting Orlando! Lake Jesup is one of the best places to get a fantastic view of these magnificent beasts. With about 13,000 gators in the lake, it has the largest concentration of alligators in any lake in the U.S.
Pack Your Suitcase….
No matter what kind of romantic getaway you and your significant other are looking for, Orlando has something to offer. From exciting outdoor adventures to relaxing spots to grab a bite, you’ll be able to find a great experience no matter where you and your partner are.
So don’t wait any longer; plan your romantic getaway to Orlando and start making memories that will last a lifetime. The romance awaits!
