Orlando offers a vast array of ways to spend your nightlife, from theatre shows to karaoke and luxury rooftop bars. The sheer amount of interesting activities and exciting venues can make the process of deciding a complex one. To make it easier, we have selected a variety of great things to do and see, check out our list below and tell us what you think.
Downtown is teaming with nightlife and has a thriving after-hours culture with everything from nightclubs to romantic bars. Orange Avenue is worth checking out as it’s a central hub for all things boozy and adult. Go to Cahoots for old school arcade games before heading to Aero, the electronic music club that offers dancing and a serene rooftop bar. Or if you prefer a more local setting, try the Lucky Lure on the banks of Lake Ivanhoe which is a perfect spot to savour the sunset and a cold beer.
Just off Orange Avenue is Wall Street Plaza, which houses interesting bars like Hooch, an ex-prohibition warehouse turned bar - how ironic! Hooch is the tip of an eclectic iceberg that offers a circus, glorious rooftop, cabaret or even a Hawaii themed bar. This warren of different establishments is worth checking out for the unique atmospheres.
Church Street also offers a great mix of bars and entertainment. Head to Latitudes for an intimate, local speakeasy with great bartenders and a stunning view over the city from high above the historic Church Street in downtown. This is the place to go for year-round, after-hours entertainment.
At Pointe Orlando, located just off the I-Drive, is a great all-in-one destination for a night on the town with some great places to eat and drink before catching the latest blockbuster at the state-of-the-art 4DX IMAX cinema or see some side-splitting comedy at the improv comedy club.
A popular place with locals and international revellers alike is the Universal City Walk. This area is full with a diverse range of people enjoying their down-time in an iconic setting of Universal Orlando Resort. Try The Groove for a one-stop-shop for eating, drinking and dancing the night away.
If you prefer an upmarket bar downtown, Hanson’s Shoe Repair at the Hanson Building is a great option. This speakeasy requires a password so make sure to check their website and Twitter before you go (or befriend a local, that always works). Located at one of the most historic buildings in the city, dating back to 1884, the character and Victorian-era style of which has maintained somewhat in the current décor. If something with a more modern twist is more your style, try the One80 Skytop Lounge, which seamlessly transforms from a smart setting for some evening drinks to a grooving, swaying club. Even if you didn't intend to stay for a dance or two, the music and the atmosphere will probably convince you to.
If clubbing is on your agenda anyway, Attic is the place to go, with a local DJ on the decks week in, week out this cult favourite venue is not to be missed. Whether you want to celebrate with a bottle, listen to some music or show off your new dance moves, Attic is the place to go in Orlando.
Should you prefer a more cultured night out, The Blue Man Group have a residency at Universal Resort. Having entertained over 35 million people worldwide with residencies in many major cities across the globe, this comedy, rock, dance troupe are a memorable evening. Alternatively, head to The Mad Cow Theatre to see a Harold Pinter play to talk about and impress your friends.
All of this is still a small example of what Orlando has to offer. Its integrated lakes and green spaces give this city a spacious feel with the ease of being able to get to whatever amenity you require. Explore more about Orlando with Propeterra.