Orlando’s Best Kept Secrets
Discover the places that not too many tourists know about
Skip the theme parks for a day and discover a different side of Orlando. From downtown to charming towns, some of Orlando’s best kept secrets are about to be revealed.
Downtown
If you are searching for some true southern barbeque, look no further than 4 Rivers Smokehouse. From smoked brisket and St. Louis ribs to their homestyle sides like mac and cheese and fried okra, this restaurant will have you wanting more. In the mood for Mexican food? Dine at Gringos Locos. Whether you get their street tacos or chimichangas, you will understand why they were awarded 2016 Best Mexican in Orlando by Orlando Weekly.
Swan boats, a jogging trail, and a beautiful lush landscape are just a few things you will discover at Lake Eola Park. Take a stroll and soak in the view, or grab a burger or rent a swan paddle boat. Don’t forget to pick up local produce or handcrafted jewelry at the Orlando’s Farmers Market held every Sunday at Lake Eola Park. After you finish visiting Lake Eola, take a self-guided tour through downtown with SEE Art Orlando.
Winter Park
Located 20 minutes from downtown Orlando, Winter Park is full of shopping, outdoor cafes, and stunning scenery. Start your morning off by taking a scenic boat tour on an 18-passenger pontoon boat. On this tour, you will see the beauty Winter Park has to offer as you cruise over Winter Park’s chain of lakes.
After your boat tour, head over to Park Avenue, an outdoor shopping district. From local boutiques and nationally known stores such as Gap and Talbots, you are sure to find that perfect outfit you’ve been searching for. If your sweet tooth needs something to munch on while shopping, make sure to visit Kilwins and get some homemade fudge or ice cream.
Address: 122 N Park Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789End your day by dining at one of Winter Park’s outdoor patio restaurants. If you have a craving for Italian, dine at Prato. Try their laughing bird shrimp ravioli or Margherita pizza and end your meal on a sweet note by indulging in their tiramisu.
Address: 124 N Park Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789Celebration
Located near Walt Disney World Resort and developed by The Walt Disney Company is the charming town of Celebration. Full of beautifully bright homes and buildings, a variety of restaurants, and local boutiques, this town is sure to keep you entertained.
For breakfast, dine at Market Street Diner. This diner has everything from blueberry pancakes to three meat omelets. If you miss breakfast, no worries because this diner serves it all day. For lunch grab a large slice of pizza at Upper Crust and enjoy your pizza on their patio. When dinner rolls around, visit Celebration Town Tavern. This authentic New England town tavern offers everything from clam chowder to Maine lobster rolls.Address: 701 Front St, Celebration, FL 34747