orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 5
6 | city guide | orlando weekly
Publisher Graham Jarrett Editor Jessica Bryce Young Editorial Staff Writers Monivette Cordeiro, Xander Peters Calendar Editor Thaddeus McCollum Music Editor Matthew Moyer Digital Content Editor Colin Wolf Contributors Peg Aloi, Rob Bartlett, Jen Cray, Jason Ferguson, Liv Jonse, Holly V. Kapherr, Faiyaz Kara, Seth Kubersky, Bao Le-Huu, Cameron Meier, Richard Reep, Joey Roulette, Moriah Russo, Leah Sandler, Steve Schneider, Madeleine Scott, Nicolette Shurba Editorial Interns Linzie Lawton, Shayla Phillips, Gunnar Shuler Advertising Director of Sales Jeff Kruse Major Accounts Specialist Leslie Egan Senior Multimedia Account Executive Dan Winkler Multimedia Account Executives Scott Navarro, Scotty Spar Classified and Legal Rep Jerrica Schwartz Account Manager Danielle Lebron Marketing and Events Events & Marketing Director Eric Landrum Marketing and Events Manager Rachel Hoyle Events and Promotions Coordinator Kevin Ruane Marketing Interns Kelsey Stidham, Hayley Ullman Creative Services Art Director Melissa McHenry Production Manager Daniel Rodriguez Graphic Designer Justin “SKIP” Skipper Business Operations Manager Hollie Mahadeo Business Assistant Allysha Willison Circulation Circulation Manager Collin Modeste Euclid Media Group Chief Executive Officer Andrew Zelman Chief Operating Officers Chris Keating, Michael Wagner VP of Digital Services Stacy Volhein Digital Operations Coordinator Jaime Monzon Human Resources Director Lisa Beilstein
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A letter from the staff … 9
Neighbor— hoods Downtown … 11 Parramore … 15 Thornton Park … 17 Ivanhoe Village … 19 Milk District … 21 Mills 50 … 23 SoDo … 27 College Park … 29 Audubon Park … 33 Winter Park & Maitland … 35 Conway/Curry Ford … 47 UCF … 51 International Drive … 53 Sand Lake/Dr. Phillips … 57 Gateway District … 59
Day trips Sanford … 61 St. Augustine … 63 Mount Dora … 65 Kissimmee … 67 Space Coast … 69 Tampa … 71
Listings
Music & Nightlife … 73 Arts & Culture … 79 Sports & Recreation … 87 Attractions … 91 Annual Event Calendar … 97
euclidmediagroup.com National Advertising: Voice Media Group 1-888-278-9866, vmgadvertising.com Orlando Weekly Inc. 16 W. Pine St. Orlando, Florida 32801 orlandoweekly.com Phone 407-377-0400 Fax 407-377-0420 Orlando Weekly is published every week by Euclid Media Group Orlando Distribution Orlando Weekly is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader.
CONTRIBUTORS: Jessica Bryce Young, Xander Peters, Thaddeus McCollum, Matthew Moyer, Monivette Cordeiro, Gunnar Shuler, Faiyaz Kara PHOTOGRAPHERS: Jen Cray, Monivette Cordeiro, Rob Bartlett
Copyright notice: The entire contents of Orlando Weekly are copyright 2018 by Euclid Media Group LLC. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Publisher does not assume any liability for unsolicited manuscripts, materials, or other content. Any submission must include a stamped, self-addressed envelope. All editorial, advertising, and business correspondence should be mailed to the address listed above. Subscriptions: Additional copies or back issues may be purchased at the Orlando Weekly offices for $1. Six-month domestic subscriptions may be purchased for $75; one-year subscriptions for $125. Periodical Postage Pending at Orlando, FL POSTMASTER: Send address changes to ORLANDO WEEKLY 16 W. Pine St. Orlando, FL 32801.
orlando weekly | city guide | 7
8 | city guide | orlando weekly
A letter from the staff
Dear Orlando, Change is the only constant, as the old saw goes. And it’s just as true here in the City Beautiful as anywhere else. While new things are popping up all the time – restaurants, bars, galleries, neighborhood names – the old standbys continue to delight in ways that connect us to our personal histories in these streets. So here’s our annual guide to everything we love about Orlando, from the brand-new to the tried-and-true. We break down each neighborhood – even the ones you hadn’t heard of yet – to give you an idea of where to eat, drink and find something to do. And since our geographic centrism provides comparatively easy access to the rest of the state, there are even some ideas for road trips if you’re looking to try something new out of town. Plus, our nigh-comprehensive guides to music venues, clubs, arts institutions, sports and recreation, and attractions should help fill out your weekends for the next 52 weeks. Here’s to you, Orlando: Never/always change. Love and kisses, Orlando Weekly
orlando weekly | city guide | 9
10 | neighborhoods | city guide | orlando weekly
{ neighborhoods }
Downtown
T
o take downtown Orlando at face value – a skyscraper hub of businesses, banks and bars – is too simplistic. The city’s core is a mecca for the creative with a diverse culinary landscape, experimental art, theater spaces and the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. It’s become the space where we hold emotions together – from the weekly protests at U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio’s office to vigils in front of the rainbow-colored Walt Disney Amphitheatre at Lake Eola. Our nightlife is vibrant and varied – craft cocktail connoisseurs and Jägerbomb shot lovers can party mere feet from each other. Downtown is the place where Orlando truly comes alive.
EAT El Buda Latin Asian Restaurant 116 W. Church St., 407-203-8171, facebook.com/elbudadowntown One of downtown’s newest gastronomical adventures, El Buda Latin Asian Restaurant fuses the palates of two great cultures into
Mathers Social Gathering | Photo by Jen Cray dishes like sweet plantain pork dumplings and grilled pork hong pong fufu. Chef Roberto Treviño makes it even better with an extensive list of craft cocktails and local brews.
Artisan’s Table 22 E. Pine St., 407-730-7499, artisanstableorlando.com A delectable menu from breakfast to dinner, Artisan’s Table offers tweaked-up classics like crispy chicken sandwiches and lamb sliders alongside distinct dishes such as a brunchy Japanese bowl and jalapeño popper mac. Taste Artisan’s breakfast latte and never look back at your caramel Frappuccino again.
Hubby Bubbly Falafel Shop 131 N. Orange Ave., 407-286-5667, hubblybubblyfalafel.com Nosh on healthy Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine at Hubbly Bubbly’s newest location in downtown. Since opening in College Park in 2013, this restaurant has been a one-stop shop for healthy-ish meals.
Kres Chophouse 17 W. Church St., 407-447-7950, kresrestaurant.com Billing itself as “not your father’s steakhouse,” Kres Chophouse is for diners who like their meat with superb flavor, elegant service and a serious wine list. Prepare to stay impressed through the evening.
DRINK Celine 22 S. Magnolia Ave., 407-801-7005, celineorlando.com One of Orlando’s newer clubs, Celine boasts vintage furnishings, a rooftop lounge and a speakeasy with an enviable cocktail menu.
Foxtail’s Coffee Bar 390 N. Orange Ave., 407-930-1700, foxtailcoffee.com Hidden inside the Bank of America building, CONTINUED ON PAGE 13
orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 11
{ neighborhoods }
Downtown
Foxtail | Photo by Jen Cray CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11
Foxtail’s Coffee Bar is a quaint pop-up next to the French restaurant DoveCote. Order some cold brew and spend a magnificently quiet afternoon in their magical sitting area.
Mathers Social Gathering 30 S. Magnolia Ave., 407-2505005, mathersorlando.com Posh throwback decor and creative craft cocktails are the stock in trade of this upscale spot.
Wall Street Plaza 25 Wall St., 407-849-0471, wallstplaza.net You haven’t partied in Orlando until you’ve gone through the rite of passage that is Wall Street. Eight venues take over one block every night for a guaranteed good time.
GO Orange County Regional History Center 65 E. Central Blvd., 407-8368500, thehistorycenter.org
Local historical curators work hard to record Central Florida’s past and present by documenting everything from indigenous artifacts to Pulse tributes. Take an hour and find the story of Orlando here.
Orlando Farmers Market Lake Eola Park, corner of East Central Boulevard and North Eola Drive, orlandofarmersmarket.com The market has been a staple at Lake Eola Park since 1987. Come for a morning stroll and buy fresh vegetables, homemade soaps and sweet, hot kettle corn.
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts 445 S. Magnolia Ave., 407-8390119, drphillipscenter.org Orlando’s world-class arts venue brings Broadway musicals like Hamilton to the forefront, along with comedy performances by Second City and soulful gospel by diva Patti LaBelle.
orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 13
SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION
ing to spread the word about during Infertility Awareness Week is Intracervical Insemination (ICI), also known as Home Insemination. The client is sent donor sperm via Fedex to their home, or they can pick up the sperm at the Cryos office. Then the patient follows the simple instructions included with their home insemination kit and completes the fertility treatment in the privacy of their own home. Home Insemination is a great option for single women, couples struggling to have a baby due to male partner fertility issues, and lesbian couples. “The acceptance of same-sex couples and legality of marriage in many states for same-sex couples has created a new market of people who don’t have fertility issues,” says Burke. “For example, lesbian couples — they probably don’t have infertility issues, they just lack sperm. Same with gay male couples; they just lack eggs.”
Infertility can be an uncomfortable topic. From the social pressures that people face when seeking help to the physical discomfort that comes with some treatments, lots of patients are hesitant to openly seek advice or research available treatment options. Howe v e r, Cryos I n t e rn a tional, Orlando’s local sperm and egg bank, is partnering with RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association to educate the community and reduce stigma during National Infertility Week (April 22-28). Cryos is a sperm and egg bank that provides both donor sperm and donor eggs to facilities, medical practices and individuals for use in reproductive treatments.
world’s largest sperm bank — which means they have a diverse variety of sperm donors for clients to choose from. Their egg bank also currently has over 125 egg donors of all ethnicities to choose from. Having a local brick and mortar location means that people can actually come in and pick up their specimens, saving on shipping costs. “With 30 years of experience, we have the most registered pregnancies in the world, which speaks to our quality,” says Corey Burke, Cryos’s Tissue Bank Director. “You don’t have the most pregnancies in the world without having good-quality products. All of our donors are screened above and beyond the FDA standards and any regulatory standards that exist in the United States.”
Infertility can be an uncomfortable topic.
Based in Denmark but with a large presence in the U.S., including Orlando, Cryos is the
At-home insemination is an option that’s gained traction in recent years, due in large part to the acceptance of the gay community. “Seven or eight years ago, very few states approved of same-sex marriage, so that was an issue,” stresses Burke. “Fertility treatments were considered to be medical procedures done in doctor’s offices. But when you think about it, it’s just reproduction. People reproduce all the time at home; they don’t need the help of a doctor. We’re trying to reach people who don’t suffer from infertility issues, they just need sperm or eggs.”
One of the options Cryos is try-
14 | neighborhoods | city guide | orlando weekly
For many years, general knowledge of infertility and social stigma also played a huge role in how patients talked about, researched and sought treatment for their own infertility. But according to Burke, a lot of that has changed. “For decades there’s been stigma attached to not being able to become pregnant. When I first started doing In Vitro Fertilization [a more involved treatment that uses fertility medication, egg collection from a female donor, and insertion of a lab-developed embryo into a woman’s uterus] most of our patients were very secretive. They didn’t want anybody to know they were coming to us. Now we have celebrities doing it and it’s all over the news… so-and-so star is using a sperm donor, this one’s doing IVF, and Janet Jackson’s pregnant at fiftysomething. It’s become something that people talk about.” Whether it’s a heterosexual couple, a single woman, LGBT partners or anyone else, Cryos International has a knowledgeable staff and the highest quality products to help anyone in need of fertility treatments. Their partnership with RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association during Infertility Awareness Week is just another step they’re taking to be Orlando’s go-to resource for the community’s fertility treatment needs. For more information please visit http:// usa.cryosinternational.com and look through the information, donor, and blog pages, or ask a question via chat for an instant answer.
{ neighborhoods }
Parramore
T
he neighborhood is changing, but whether or not that’s for the better, there’s undeniably new life in the air. Still, there’s just as much of the classic vibe as always in this historic part of the city, from the old, like the Wells’ Built Museum, to the new, like the West Art District. Re-Runz Record Store | Photo by Jen Cray
EAT Chef Eddie’s 595 W. Church St., 407-826-1731, chefeddies.com Just a hop, skip and a jump away from the Orlando Magic’s house at the Amway Center, find some of the best comfort fare in the city. Smothered pork chops, saucy oxtails, chicken and waffles, savory mashed potatoes, jalapeño-crackling muffins – all will elicit superlatives.
Goff’s Drive In 212 S. Orange Blossom Trail, 407-286-3421 An institution in Parramore since 1948, this cement-block building on OBT between Church and Jackson Streets serves soft-serve, dipped cones, milkshakes and sundaes.
Nikki’s Place Southern Cuisine 742 Carter St., 407-425-5301, nikkisplace.net Back from the dead after the building burnt down in March 2015, Nikki’s menu hasn’t changed much since its opening day nearly two decades ago. With fried chicken and barbecue as its mainstays, we’re glad that’s the case.
GO Orlando City Stadium 655 W. Church St., 407-480-4702, orlandocitysc.com Since the Orlando City Soccer Club cut the ribbon on its new stadium, which seats 25,500 fans, this has been one of the best springtime spots in Orlando.
Parramore Farmer’s Market 698 W. Pine St., cityoforlando.net Totally new as of January to Parramore, and open on Saturday mornings till early afternoon, it was part of a food grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to expand healthy food options in West Orlando. So take advantage of it.
Re-Runz Record store 642 W. Church St., 321-239-6325, facebook.com/rerunzrecords New and used vinyl, CDs and music memorabilia. Dig here for funk, soul, R&B and jazz, and pine for the vintage posters on the walls.
West Art District 1011 W. Central Blvd., westartdistrict.com A 50,000-square-foot explosion of everchanging murals, street art and graffiti, painted by artists from around the world and kids from the neighborhood.
orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 15
DRINK Yard Bar 617 W. Central Blvd., 407-849-0471, wallstplaza.net/venues/yardbar Welcome to the spot where you should go to either celebrate an Orlando City Soccer win or to drink away one of their losses as you stretch out and enjoy some sunshine.
Broken Cauldron 1012 W. Church St., 407-986-1012, brokencauldrontaproom.com As mellow as can be, this industrial space is home to two interesting breweries – Broken Strings and Black Cauldron – that set up shop together in mid-2016 with an eye toward the opening of Orlando City Stadium.
Stonewall Bar 741 W. Church St., 407-373-0888, stonewallorlando.com DJs, drag shows, T-dances and karaoke nights make this two-level bar an LGBTQ mainstay. But they’re about to get an influx of hungry allies when Tako Cheena takes over their kitchen. Yaaaaas.
16 | neighborhoods | city guide | orlando weekly
{ neighborhoods }
Thornton Park
A
rguably one of the more chic and aesthetically pleasing neighborhoods in the City Beautiful, Thornton Park is where you go if you’d like to soak in some of the city’s historical charm while getting in touch with your bourgeois side. But do us a favor, please, and resist the temptation to climb into the fountain on especially hot afternoons.
EAT Truck Stop Pop-Up Kitchen 900 E. Washington St., 407-286-3900, truckstoprestaurant.com A permanent pop-up kitchen that allows a new food truck, chef or catering company to take over the space every week, Truck Stop Pop-Up Kitchen is also unique in that it serves brunch seven days a week.
Shari Sushi Lounge 621 E. Central Blvd., 407-420-9420, sharisushilounge.com Still stylish and sleek, though it’s a longtime neighborhood staple, this spot serves signature rolls and sashimi, as well as a few hot entrees for those who aren’t particularly inclined to partake in a sushi feast. Also: cocktails and flattering lighting, i.e., it’s a great bar for a first meetup.
Gallery Eola | Photo by Jen Cray
Soco 629 E. Central Blvd., 407-849-1800, socothorntonpark.com Soco serves “Southern contemporary” food (as its name implies), and it’s the ideal spot for a fancy date night, a meal with the parents or a low-key after-work happy hour. And don’t miss their Saturday brunch specials: We suggest the quail and waffles, chased down with a bottomless mimosa.
DRINK Burton’s Bar 801 E. Washington St., 407-412-5140 It’s not a dive bar by any means, because dive bars tend to be quite a bit grungier. But it’s certainly the sort of place where, if you visit frequently enough, everybody might end up knowing your name.
The Falcon 819 E. Washington St., 407-423-3060, thefalconbar.com A place where you can drink local beer, look at local art and shuffle your eyes across the analog personal ads on the wall adjacent to the bar, the Falcon Bar is one of those places that has come to define Orlando’s hippest.
Eola Wine Co. 430 E. Central Blvd., 407-481-9100, eolawinecompany.com A place for wine lovers in Orlando to unite.
orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 17
Feel free to order their wares by the glass or in two-ounce sampler flights, like you would at a beer taproom. And don’t be shy to stay late and have a little extra, because this joint keeps hopping until 2 a.m. on the weekends.
GO
Yoga in Lake Eola Park 512 E. Washington St., 407-246-4484, facebook.com/yogainlakeeolapark Why not do a tree pose while surrounded by trees? Brought to you by local yogi Amanda Reh, who’s been conducting the classes for the last five years or so, this 11 a.m. destination on Sundays will help keep you centered.
The Abbey 100 S. Eola Drive, 407-704-6261, abbeyorlando.com Home to live music, theater, storytelling, dance and other performing arts, as well as major citywide events like the Big Gay Brunch during Come Out With Pride, this is where Orlando’s art world collides in an intimate, inviting space that’s safe for all to enjoy.
Gallery Eola 818 E. Washington St.., galleryeola.com Intimate and adventurous new gallery space focuses on local, challenging creative work across platforms and media. Also hosts readings, performances and artist talks.
18 | neighborhoods | city guide | orlando weekly
{ neighborhoods }
O
nce an unassuming stretch of Orange Avenue, anchored at one end by numerous antique stores and at the other by Florida Hospital, Ivanhoe Village has in recent years hotted up into one of Orlando’s fastest-changing neighborhoods. The Alden Road warehouse district is gone, replaced by a massive and seemingly eternal construction project, but it’ll be interesting to see what the area looks like this time next year.
Ivanhoe
Horizons Vintage | Photo by Jen Cray
the Egg McMeatmuffin, She-Wolf or Crushinator, or buy cuts of grass-fed pastured proteins and create your own meaty mayhem.
The Greek Corner 1600 N. Orange Ave., 407-228-0303, thegreekcorner.net That they’ve been around for more than a decade while barely changing is a testament to the simple great tastes and welcoming atmosphere. Here’s to getting it right.
DRINK The Lucky Lure
EAT Stir 1409 N. Orange Ave., 407-723-8976, stirlakeivanhoe.com Brand-new to the neighborhood, Stir is a comfy unpretentious hangout (with parking! It’s a thing in Ivanhoe) serving dinner, lunch and brunch.
White Wolf Café 1829 N. Orange Ave., 407-895-9911, whitewolfcafe.com The O.G. Ivanhoe Village restaurant meets all needs: breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner. It’s equally as good for date night, family meals or folks looking for a stiff cocktail.
Orlando Meats 728 Virginia Drive, 407-598-0700, orlandomeats.com This combo butcher shop and modern diner is winning hearts and minds. Order dishes like
1427 N. Orange Ave., facebook.com/theluckylureorlando Drinking in this tin-roofed, open-air construct is about as close to hanging out at a beach bar as you can get in landlocked Orlando.
GB’s Bottle Shop and Tasting Bar 531 Virginia Drive, 407-634-0110, gbbottleshop.com Slinging rare kegs and large-format bottles alike, GB’s serves up a serious crash course on craft beer for the discerning drinker. Let them pour one for you to enjoy in-house, fill a growler to go or just peruse the selections in the retail area.
M Lounge 2000 N. Orange Ave., 321-430-1140, facebook.com/themloungebar Get high at M Lounge, the tallest (and only) rooftop bar in the Ivanhood. Enjoy craft cocktails and startling views.
GO Gaston Edwards Park 1236 N. Orange Ave., 407-246-2283 Tromp the .7-mile trail and make use of the workout stations along the way (remember to bring a towel), or book a stand-up paddleboard lesson in Lake Ivanhoe.
Horizons Vintage 1817 N. Orange Ave., horizonsvintage.com Sister to a Brooklyn boutique, Horizons offers a well-curated selection of new and ’90s vintage clothing, bags and shoes, and local jewelry, like Lou Jewels.
Living Morocco 1804 N. Orange Ave., 407-898-6610, living-morocco-online.com Find intricately carved chests and screens, geometrically tiled fountains and tables, or the perfect leather pouf to lend Moorish flair to your living quarters.
Humble Bumble Kombucha
Factur
1231 N. Orange Ave., 407-694-4131, humblebumblekombucha.com Local ’booch specialist Humble Bumble’s product has been snapped up all around town since they started brewing. Now they have their own store, making and selling their brew alongside baked goods and coffee.
520 Virginia Drive, 407-801-3228, factur.org This members-only maker space is open to the public every Thursday evening. Take a tour and decide if access to a glass-blowing lab, metal and wood shops, 3-D printer lab, podcast studio and more is what you need to self-validate.
orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 19
{ neighborhoods }
Milk District
A
s the last few years have demonstrated, this neighborhood is definitely on the up and up. Dubbed after the T.G. Lee dairy plant, which borders the area, the Milk District offers an assortment of both dining and drinking options. Its cool bars and vintage boutiques exude the sort of hip vibe that brings in fancy investors over time (cough gentrification cough). So catch it authentic while you still can.
EAT The Nook on Robinson 2432 E. Robinson St., facebook.com/thenookonrobinson “A neighborhood bar and eatery,” as their slogan goes, this is a non-pretentious and inviting hangout. With plenty of coffee, a shelf of used books for sale and a nice selection of beers, it lives up to its homey name.
Se7en Bites 617 Primrose Drive, 407-203-0727, se7enbites.com Bigger, better and in an expanded space up the street, but just as delicious as ever, Se7en Bites is renowned around town for the way their Southern comfort dishes have a way of making you melt a little.
Saigon Noodle & Grill 101 N. Bumby Ave., 407-532-7373, saigonnoodleandgrill.com Family-owned and operated, the specialties of the house are Vietnamese rice platters, pan-
Orlando Skate Park | Photo by Jen Cray fried noodle dishes and family-style entrees, plus some of the best pho broth in town.
Pom Pom’s Teahouse & Sandwicheria 67 N. Bumby Ave., 407-894-0865, pompomsteahouse.com Don’t miss the enticingly conceptual sandwiches served up by Pom Moongauklang’s devoted crew, like the Spicy Elvis, the Fu Man Chu or Mama Ling Ling’s, with a whole Thanksgiving dinner between the slices.
DRINK The Milk Bar 2424 E. Robinson St., facebook.com/themilkbarlounge Welcome to one of your new favorite haunts. It’s extremely dog-friendly, with tons of specialty craft beer options as well as an array of different ciders. Make sure to stop by on a Tuesday for the Tasty Tuesday food truck roundup in the back parking lot.
Southern Craft 2405 E. South St., 407-412-5039, facebook.com/southerncraftbar One of the latest additions to the Milk District, it’s the craft cocktail extension of Southern Nights, one of Orlando’s most popular LGBTQ after-dark destinations.
GO Little Joe’s Primrose Tattoo Parlor 47 N. Primrose Drive, 407-492-2960, facebook.com/primrosetattoo You know what to do here. Get your latest ink before you go out for a few drinks.
Orlando Skate Park 400 Festival Way, 407-246-2800, cityoforlando.net Grip it and rip it, as they say. If you’re a local, you might as well invest in an unlimited monthly or annual pass if you plan on shredding the street-gnar on the reg.
Sportstown Billiards
Pickup sports at Festival Park
2414 E. Robinson St., 407-894-6258, sportstownbilliards.com Some would call this the heart of the Milk District, which makes sense when you consider how this shindig has everything from pool to ping-pong, shuffleboard to cornhole, to accompany what’s on tap.
2911 E. Robinson St., cityoforlando.net Volleyball, basketball, you name it, but to hell with your local YMCA in the summertime. Make it out to Festival Park with some friends for a pickup game, or simply show up wearing your short shorts and hope to get chosen for someone’s team.
orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 21
22 | neighborhoods | city guide | orlando weekly
{ neighborhoods }
Mills 50
A
quick trip around the main strip of what is known as Mills 50 (coined from its ground zero at the intersection of Mills and Colonial) will show ample evidence of a neighborhood in the midst of some major change. Buildings and rents are going up, and every night more and more people come to check out the bustling nightlife. Even from last year, the neighborhood has changed quite a bit. And yet, any neighborhood where Uncle Lou’s, Dong-A Supermarket, the Guesthouse and the Lamp & Shade Fair can exist side by side is gonna make it through it all just fine. There’s plenty to do both day and night (especially if you like to eat), and it’s easily traversed by foot.
Guesthouse | Photo by Jen Cray
Pig Floyd’s Urban Barbakoa 1326 N. Mills Ave., 407-203-0865, pigfloyds.com Classic rock-referencing Latin barbecue is a perfect fit for the quirky Mills 50 main drag. Sandwiches, platters and tacos draw in crowds of locals every night.
Tasty Wok
EAT Lazy Moon 1011 E. Colonial Drive, 407-412-6222, lazymoonpizza.com Mills 50 outpost of this popular UCF-area staple offers unfeasibly large slices of pizza perfect for the carnivore and/or vegetarian/ vegan, a full liquor menu and late night hours very friendly to revelers and insomniacs.
The Strand 807 N. Mills Ave., 407-920-7744, strandorlando.com Nouveau-American style bistro packs local foodies into its minimalist interior and sates their hunger with classic (yet also surprising) dishes prepared expertly and mindfully with local and seasonal sourcing.
Tako Cheena 932 N. Mills Ave., mytakocheena.com The bustling Latin-Asian burrito and taco spot has reached certified local must-eat status. Open till 4 a.m. on Friday and Saturday nights.
1246 E. Colonial Drive, 407-896-8988 If you’ve ever walked Main Street in Flushing, Queens, you’ll recognize the roast whole ducks and five-spice aroma wafting from Tasty Wok. Real-deal beef chow fun is a fave.
Bikkuri Sushi 1915 E. Colonial Drive, 407-894-4494, bikkuricorp.com Delightfully eccentric sushi spot with a sprawling menu, low prices, late hours, a few mean tiki drinks and a side lounge that hosts trance nights and the equally eccentric Kira Kira Pop showcases.
DRINK
Arguably the fulcrum of Mills 50 nightlife, the Will’s compound dispenses with any dithering over whether you want to catch a show/drink a bougie cocktail/listen to metal and imbibe tiki beverages by making it all possible in one spot.
Lineage Coffee Roasting 1011 E. Colonial Drive, 407-205-8096, lineageroasting.com New location for the local third-wave coffee roaster, and it’s a doozy. Enjoy all manner of espressos, cold brews and pour-overs with some baked goodies courtesy of Buttermilk Bakery while feeling like a comfy time traveler in a sleek and minimalist setting.
Four Rebels American Taco Kitchen & Bar 1618 N. Mills Ave., 407-601-6575, 4rebelstacos.com A five-hour-long happy hour plus $5 margaritas plus a sweet rooftop patio equals a most excellent place to chill. Tacos in Cuban-sandwich or mac-and-cheese renditions help keep you steady on your pins.
Guesthouse
Wally’s Mills Avenue Liquors
1321 N. Mills Ave., 407-630-6574 Heavy on the clean aesthetics and dimly lit atmosphere, not to mention a stellar selection of craft cocktails, Guesthouse is jumping to the head of the class of watering holes with a difference. Good luck getting in on a weekend.
1001 N. Mills Ave, 407-896-6975, wallysonmills.com A Mills 50 standby, Wally’s succeeds by stripping away any modern artifice and niceties from your drinking experience, leaving you with the essentials: a smoky room, cheap strong beverages, and an incredibly loud jukebox. Live shows are starting to become a thing here again, to boot!
Will’s Pub/Lil Indies/Dirty Laundry 1042 N. Mills Ave., willspub.org
orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 23
CONTINUED ON PAGE 25
24 | neighborhoods | city guide | orlando weekly
{ neighborhoods }
Mills 50
A-Shop CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23
GO A-Shop 647 N. Mills Ave., facebook.com/ a999shop Vanessa Barros Andrade’s total immersion fashion-as-art emporium proffers bleeding-edge new looks, vintage clothes, zines and music. The space also hosts music and art shows.
The British Shoppe 809 N. Mills Ave., 407-898-1634, thebritishshoppe.com A right jolly little shop near the Strand where you can score all manner of British teas, chocolates, candy, scones and related ephemera and gifts. All your Cadbury’s dreams will come true.
The District at Mills 50 1221 N. Mills Ave., 407-601-3363, facebook.com/districtatmills The indoor market stocks jewelry, prints, essential oils, soaps and so on, but they’ve gone all in with vegan necessities, be it fresh sandwiches, meat substitutes, sweet snacks, imitation cheese or even vegan-themed clothing.
Remix Record Shop 1217 N. Mills Ave., 407-801-5300, remixthestore.com A new entrant to the crowded record store field in Orlando, Remix succeeds by virtue of its prime location on the Mills 50 strip, a well-curated collection of LPs that is heavy on classic and new dance, and rarities hiding behind every letter of the alphabet.
Ten10 Brewing Company 1010 Virginia Drive, 407-9308993, ten10brewingcompany.com New(ish) local brewery nestled in the heart of Mills 50 offers a selection of potent craft brews and food; you can see where all the intoxicating magic happens.
Uncle Lou’s Entertainment Hall 1016 N. Mills Ave., 407-898-0009 At this inimitable venue run by Uncle Lou himself, you never know what to expect when you enter. Last time we were there we saw the singer of a local electropunk band nearly kill himself jumping off the slippery bar.
Snap! Space 1013 E. Colonial Drive, 407-8438700, snaporlando.com This gorgeous modern gallery in the old Cameo Theater building brings exciting art shows to town on the regular; if you get the chance, don’t miss the gallery’s show openings. Snap! proprietors Patrick and Holly Kahn know how to throw a party.
Orlando Urban Trail Near the intersection of Virginia Drive and Brookhaven Drive, cityoforlando.net If all the drinking and shopping and concert-going and whatnot has you feeling a little overstimulated, why not unwind with a pedal through this bucolic bike trail that connects downtown, Loch Haven Park and Winter Park?
orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 25
26 | neighborhoods | city guide | orlando weekly
{ neighborhoods }
SoDo
I
t wasn’t long ago that SoDo was barely a neighborhood, just a strip of a few restaurants to service the employees of and visitors to Orlando Regional Medical Center. This area that runs along Orange Avenue from the 408 to a little past Michigan has truly come into its own in the last few years. It was put on the map in national news after the Pulse tragedy in 2016, but it is much more than that. With constant construction and an influx of new housing, restaurants and shopping centers, SoDo is a truly up-and-coming spot.
Gringos Locos 517 E. Michigan St., 407-802-4637, gringoslocos.com This new location of Orlando’s favorite drunk-food providers serves up everything from Double-Ds tacos to the Mouth-Hugger burrito.
DRINK EAT Taqueria Ameca 3558 S. Orange Ave., 407-852-0502, taqueriaameca.com If you want authentic Mexican tacos, this is your new spot. The menu is in Spanish and the prices are low, making it perfect to try a little bit of everything.
Bakery Plus 915 E. Michigan St., 407-849-1888 Get your doughnut fix on the fly at this simple neighborhood staple.
Johnny’s Fillin’ Station 2631 S. Ferncreek Ave., 407-894-6900, johnnysfillinstation.com Grab a beer and some onion rings and enjoy sports on every TV or live music at Johnny’s Other Side.
The Waterfront 4201 S. Orange Ave., 407-866-0468, thewaterfrontorlando.com The best place in the neighborhood to grab a drink and some food lakeside. Make sure to try their boozy slushies, including the Moscow Mule slushie.
East West Records | Photo by Jen Cray operations. The shop sells vintage vinyl as well as new pressings and CDs.
Costume Couture 3510 S. Orange Ave., 407-270-7360, costumecoutureorlando.com Be that “extra” friend at Halloween this year by donning an outlandish and over-the-top costume designed by this local business.
Gypsy Apothecary Herb & Metaphysical Shop 3540 S. Orange Ave., 407-745-5805, gypsyherbshop.com Align your chakras with the stones, Eastern remedies and more found at this holistic retailer.
Vanbarry’s Public House
Free Kick Orlando
4120 S. Orange Ave., 407-704-8881, orlandopublichouses.com A neighborhood favorite, this hangout lets you roast marshmallows on the patio and features live music every night.
3180 Southgate Commerce Blvd., 407-9709428, freekickcenter.com Pretend you’re on the Orlando City team with all of your buds at this indoor soccer gym. Scheduled pickup games mean you never have to worry about your keeper bailing.
GO East West Records 4895 S. Orange Ave., 407-859-8991 Perfect for the nostalgic types, this record shop has been around since the ’70s, and the original owners still oversee the day-to-day
orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 27
Pulse 1912 S. Orange Ave. Construction has begun on the memorial for the victims of the 2016 Pulse tragedy, but you can still visit the front of the building to pay your respects.
28 | neighborhoods | city guide | orlando weekly
{ neighborhoods }
College Park
T
ucked away from the hustle and bustle of metro Orlando, the College Park neighborhood seems at times like Main Street U.S.A. Residents walk and bike along the main strip of Edgewater Drive, patronizing a cluster of local businesses and eateries that also make the trip worthwhile for visitors by day or night. Life seems a little more leisurely here, but don’t mistake that for a lack of vibrancy.
Tartine | Photo by Jen Cray
ice cream and soda joint serves up top-shelf milkshakes, ice cream and malts.
Tartine 2445 Edgewater Drive, 407-845-0016, facebook.com/tartineorlando French wine bar and bistro is heavy on atmosphere, has a top-level wine menu and a steadily evolving breakfast, lunch and dinner menu with innovative French-Southern cuisine hybrids.
EAT
DRINK
The Pie Orlando
Digress Wine
2429 Edgewater Drive, 407-757-2426, thepiecollegepark.com Favorite pizza “al taglio” (by the slice) resto in this neighborhood keeps ’em coming blazing hot out of their wood-burning oven.
1215 Edgewater Drive, 407-426-7510, facebook.com/digresswine Formerly Cavanaugh’s Fine Wines, the shop has changed hands and added a wine and craft beer bar, along with plenty of creative snacks.
Infusion Tea 1600 Edgewater Drive, 407-999-5255, infusionorlando.com Café serves up loose leaf teas and organic and vegetarian fare in a funky setting that invites customers to relax and unwind for awhile.
K Restaurant 1710 Edgewater Drive, 407-872-2332, krestaurant.net Despite the recent departure of owner Kevin Fonzo, K is still going strong with its farm-totable ethos and a diverse menu.
The Soda Fountain 2525 Edgewater Drive, 407-540-1006, thesodafountain.com Like walking into a very sugary past, this retro
The Local Bar & Grill 3231 Edgewater Drive, 407-900-9005, facebook.com/localbarorlando Pleasantly scruffy and unpretentious neighborhood bar is a favorite spot with locals for a quick bite and a few drinks.
GO Dubsdread Golf Course 549 W. Par St., 407-246-2551, historicaldubsdread.com The oldest public golf course in Florida has been going strong since 1924; even if you’re not into the game, make sure to stop in for a bite and a drink at their old-school taproom.
orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 29
Jack Kerouac House 1418 Clouser Ave., 407-872-0659, kerouacproject.org Though Beat Generation leading light Kerouac lived out some of his darkest moments here, this house now hosts an innovative writer’s residency program and a number of readings and other literary events.
Apenberry’s 3443 Edgewater Drive, 407-644-5909, apenberrys.com Neighborhood nursery and garden center with a plant for everyone’s varying shades of green thumb-ness. Also a one-stop shop for pots, tools and outdoor furniture.
Driftwood Market 2308 Edgewater Drive, 407-730-4252, driftwoodmarket.net Family-run home decor, fashion and gifts boutique; most excitingly, they’ve begun offering DIY arts and crafts workshops on everything from furniture painting to string art.
Foundation College Park 2529 Edgewater Drive, 407-502-8627, facebook.com/foundationcollegepark Small but heady record and streetwear store is heavy on collectible gems and original pressings.
Naked Bar Soap Co. 1520 Edgewater Drive, nakedbarsoapco.com Sustainable artisan soaps and body products made in-house pack powerful remedies in pretty, fragrant packages.
30 | neighborhoods | city guide | orlando weekly
orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 31
32 | neighborhoods | city guide | orlando weekly
{ neighborhoods }
N
Audubon Park
estled in a suburban stretch between the Mills Avenue and Semoran Boulevard corridors, Audubon Park may seem like a sleepy oasis away from the hustle and bustle of city life. But the network of restaurants, shops and bars surrounding the intersection of Winter Park Road and Corinne Drive have set a national example for neighborhood programs across the country. Last year, the National Main Street Center awarded Audubon Park a Great American Main Street Award, recognizing their success in revitalizing the neighborhood. And with an ever-expanding slate of cool, independent eateries and retail stores, Audubon Park continues to show us how it’s done.
EAT Domu 3201 Corrine Drive, 407-960-1228, domufl.com This well-appointed izakaya and ramen shop attached to East End Market keeps purists happy with housemade noodles and broths that cook for upwards of 16 hours. But you’ll also find delectable side plates like black truffle burrata and shishito peppers, along with a top-notch cocktail menu. It’s enough to get Domu named as one of the country’s top ramen destinations by USA Today.
1803 Pizza/Kitchen 1803 E. Winter Park Road., 407-647-3872, 1803pizzakitchen.com Taking over from the beloved – if dated – O’Stromboli’s pizzeria is no easy task. But 1803 Pizza/Kitchen is stepping up to the challenge with a selection of 10-inch pies, sandwiches, salads and entrees. And a true happy hour (two-for-one drafts; none of this “dollar off” nonsense) offers the perfect incentive to try out this new neighbor.
La Femme du Fromage
Redlight Redlight | Photo by Jen Cray Formerly known as the Local Roots farm store, this eatery at East End Market is the brainchild of Person We Love Emily Rankin, a huge influence on the local … uh … locavore scene. Featuring locally sourced produce and meats, the seasonal small plates, sandwiches and bowls are literally the best of what’s around.
DRINK Stardust Video & Coffee 1842 E. Winter Park Road, 407-623-3393, stardustie.com While coffee is the beverage of choice during the day, when Stardust tends to host freelancers and students, at night it becomes a lively hang spot with live music, comedy and a full liquor bar.
Redlight Redlight 2810 Corrine Drive, 407-893-9832, redlightredlightbeerparlour.com Craft beer heaven. There’s no better place to take a beer nerd with money to burn. With more than 20 taps and a countless number of bottles, you’re guaranteed to find something new and rare and tasty. Fret not, noobs: The staff is dedicated to providing a welcoming, educational experience for the uninitiated.
3201 Corrine Drive, 407-571-9947, lafemmedufromage.com There’s no better reason to be thankful for being able to process lactose in Orlando than titular femme Tonda Corrente’s cheese stall at East End Market. We recommend sitting and enjoying a cheese and charcuterie board, flatbread, or the best grilled cheese sandwich you’ll ever have.
Big Daddy’s
Florida & Co.
Skyebird
3201 Corrine Drive, 407-790-7758, florida-co.com
3201 Corrine Drive, 407-960-2861, skyebird.com
3001 Corrine Drive, 407-644-2844, bigdaddysorlando.com The recently remodeled Big Daddy’s now has a more open feel to it. And while the neighborhood bar offers up plenty of pool, darts and sports for patrons, the real draw of Big Daddy’s is the fact that there’s karaoke seven nights a week.
orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 33
While you won’t find any booze in Skyebird’s creations, their organic cold-pressed juices, smoothies, kombucha and teas are often the best option to help get past your hangover. Also, you can always add your own rum after you walk away from the counter.
GO Park Ave CDs 2916 Corrine Drive, 407-447-7275, parkavecds.com It’s easy to forget how spoiled we are by Park Ave CDs until you try to go record shopping in another city. The model independent record store has a vast selection of vinyl and CDs, both new and used, and the prices won’t break the bank either. It’s also the place to buy tickets to upcoming shows without getting hit by service fees, and they even host frequent in-store performances as well.
The Lovely Boutique Market 2906 Corrine Drive, 407-270-7729, thelovelyboutiquemarket.com A visit to the Lovely is practically mandatory whenever visiting Audubon Park. The indoor market – comprised of spaces rented by individual vendors – has a constantly rotating stock of vintage clothing, furniture, gadgets and knick-knacks.
Harry P. Leu Gardens 1920 N. Forest Ave., 407-246-2620, leugardens.org These sprawling gardens were once the property of a prominent doctor who ended up donating the estate to the City of Orlando in 1961. You’ll find beautiful examples of native flora on the many paths through the gardens, along with an English rose garden, lakefront views, and plenty of outdoor art.
{ neighborhoods }
Winter Park & Maitland
I
t’s absurd to try and capture all of Winter Park and Maitland in the space of a couple of pages, or to define it as a “neighborhood” – both are vibrant cities with neighborhoods of their own. So we’ll just try to hit some of the new highlights and old favorites of this leafy, genteel region, home to Rollins College, the Park Avenue shopping district, a historic African American enclave, a charming network of canals and lakes, and some world-class museums.
EAT
The Glass Knife | Photo by Rob Bartlett This Maitland outpost of the MetroWest original offers an identical menu, so you can gorge on their wide selection of hefty burgers (including such delicacies as the cronut burger with half-pound of meat and maple-pepper bacon, or the “Teak Challenge” – a twopounder with 27 slices of cheese, 24 slices of bacon) closer to home.
The Glass Knife
348 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407-960-5560, garpandfuss.com Find it back in Park Avenue’s Hidden Garden: excellent pub grub as well as more sophisticated gastropub fare, served up in a womanowned and operated space.
276 S. Orlando Ave., Winter Park, 407-5002253, theglassknife.com Luxe patisserie offers a gorgeous line of cakes, cookies, doughnuts and specialty pastries to satisfy the sweetest of tooths. Coffee from Onyx Coffee Labs (with whom they have an exclusive partnership) makes a perfect pairing, be it drip, pour-over, nitro cold brew or espresso.
Enzo’s Restaurant on the Lake
Le Café de France
1130 S. Highway 17-92, Longwood, 407-8349872, enzos.com Beautiful and sophisticated, the lakefront setting is as much of a draw as the culinary excellence of this Longwood spot. They’ve been in business for 37 years, and just this spring OpenTable ranked Enzo’s one of the 100 most romantic restaurants in America.
526 S. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407-647-1869, lecafedefrance.com Longtime favorite at the mouth of Park Avenue will take you back to Paris (or if you’ve never been there, show you the way). Escargots, coq au vin and a great wine list make your nuit parfait.
Teak Neighborhood Grill
495 N. Semoran Blvd., Winter Park, 407-821-3000, facebook.com/ donutcentralandfuelpresso
Garp & Fuss
901 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland, 407-335-4835, teakorlando.com
Donut Central and Fuelpresso
orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 35
You’ll overlook the funny name as soon as you taste a superlative maple-bacon long john or apple fritter from this stealthy new entrant into Orlando’s Doughnut Wars.
Kappy’s 501 N. Orlando Ave., Maitland, 407-647-9099; kappyssubs.com One of the most authentic diners in the area has amazingly low prices in a time-warp setting: Get a Philly cheese steak with sliced sirloin and provolone and a root beer float for less than 10 bucks while marveling at the glass and aluminum capsule surrounding you.
DRINK The Rustic Table 212 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407-853-4101, rustictable.net Brunch is every day – not just weekends! – at the Rustic Table (formerly Park Station), where you can savor bottomless mimosas with their brunch or lunch menu until 3 p.m.
Foxtail’s Farmhouse 1282 N. Orange Ave., Winter Park, 407-9517931, foxtailcoffee.com Farmhouse sits next door to the original
CONTINUED ON PAGE 41
36 | neighborhoods | city guide | orlando weekly
orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 37
orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 39
40 | neighborhoods | city guide | orlando weekly
{ neighborhoods }
Winter Park & Maitland CONTINUED FROM PAGE 35
Foxtail in Winter Park, offering not just overflow seating but a wine bar, cocktails on tap, fresh juice, local pastries, an experimental coffee menu, and “the world’s largest coffee siphon bar.”
The Alfond Inn 300 E. New England Ave., Winter Park, 407998-8090, thealfondinn.com Winter Park’s boutique hotel also functions as an art gallery, hosting oft-changing selections from Rollins College’s Alfond Collection of Contemporary Art. Catch a cocktail or a cup of tea in the lobby and soak up some culture.
Eden Bar Enzian Theater, 1300 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland, 407-629-1088, enzian.org With its gorgeous horseshoe-shaped wooden bar, movie-themed cocktails and upscale bar food, Eden Bar is a one-of-a-kind drinking experience. The surrounding foliage makes the bar feel semi-tropical, and the loony Bill Plympton mural keeps you laughing.
GO Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour 312 E. Morse Blvd., Winter Park, 407-6444056, scenicboattours.com Impress your Tinder dates with this 12-mile pontoon boat tour through three lakes and two canals in Winter Park. They’ve been operating since 1938, so it looks like something is working.
Art and History Museums – Maitland 231 W. Packwood Ave., Maitland, 407-539-2181, artandhistory.org The cultural complex includes several small museums, but the jewel is the Maitland Art Center (a National Historic Landmark), the former artists’ colony founded by André Smith.
The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art 445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407-645-5311, morsemuseum.org Not only is it world-renowned for its astounding collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, the Morse has the best and biggest museum shop in town.
Mead Botanical Garden
Maitland Art Center at the Art and History Museums - Maitland
orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 41
1300 S. Denning Drive, Winter Park, 407-6226323, meadgarden.org A garden oasis with bike paths and a picnic area rife with natural fauna and wildlife. Take a hike near forested wetlands, and if you’re quiet enough, hear the hawks and wading birds.
42 | neighborhoods | city guide | orlando weekly
orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 43
44 | neighborhoods | city guide | orlando weekly
orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 45
46 | neighborhoods | city guide | orlando weekly
{ neighborhoods }
Curry Ford/Conway
C
urry Ford Road has always had its fair share of quick eats, being a main connector for the city since the days when the thoroughfare actually led to a literal ford across the Econlockhatchee River. But the area’s stepped up its game in recent years, bolstered by determined restaurateurs and craft beer purveyors determined to make a scene in an area dominated by the ubiquitous Floridian stripmall. It’s gotten good enough for developers to step in and set up plans for the “Hourglass District” at the corner of Curry Ford Road and Bumby Avenue. Named for nearby Lake Hourglass, the district revitalization effort has already piqued the interest of recognizable local names like Foxtail Coffee, Tamale Co. and – appropriately – Hourglass Brewing.
EAT Pizza Bruno 3990 Curry Ford Road, pizzabrunofl.com The brainchild of longtime local gourmand Bruno Zacchini offers up some of the best Neapolitan pies (and garlic knots) in the city.
La Fiesta Mexican Grill 3000 Curry Ford Road, 407-985-4340, facebook.com/lafiestagrillandcatering
Pizza Bruno | Photo by Rob Bartlett This traditional Mexican restaurant was so popular that it had to relocate to a bigger room. All of the essentials of a Mexican feast are on the menu: enchiladas, carnitas, chilaquiles, empanadas and more.
Peppino’s Organic Italian Kitchen 2420 Curry Ford Road, 407-203-5467, facebook.com/peppinoswoodfiredkitchen This intimate Italian kitchen offers up Old World favorites along with Panini and woodfired pizzas.
Cork & Fork 5180 S. Conway Road, 407-250-6763, corkandforkorlando.com A reprieve from the chain-heavy Conway corridor, Cork & Fork offers farm-to-table takes on fresh sandwiches, burgers, seafood and more.
DRINK Ocean Sun 3030 Curry Ford Road, 407-745-5551, oceansunbrewing.com This cozy brewpub offers plenty of weekly entertainment to go along with 12 taps devoted to beer brewed in-house.
Roque Pub 3076 Curry Ford Road, 407-985-3778, roquepuborlando.com There’s a long story behind the name – but
orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 47
with a large selection of drafts and bottles on hand, you’ll have time to hear the whole thing.
Claddagh Cottage 2421 Curry Ford Road, 407-895-1555, facebook.com/claddaghcottagepub This beloved Irish pub has been waiting in permit limbo to open in its new location, but the latest scuttlebutt indicates an opening this very month (April 2018).
Pipers Bar & Grill 4544 Curry Ford Road, 407-277-2883, pipersbarandgrill.com A classic neighborhood sports bar, Pipers offers up plenty of suds, pub grub and screens for your team-supporting pleasure.
GO Fort Gatlin Recreation Complex 2009 Lake Margaret Drive, 407-254-9820, orangecountyfl.net This county-owned facility features tennis courts and one of the few year-round public pools in the area.
Barber Park 3701 Gatlin Ave., 407-254-6860, orangecountyfl.net Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy baseball, soccer or volleyball here while their dogs run around the fenced-in dog park (just kidding; please don’t leave your dog unattended).
50 | neighborhoods | city guide | orlando weekly
{ neighborhoods }
UCF
T
he University of Central Florida serves 66,000 students, but it doesn’t really feel that way in this closeknit community. Despite being a diverse bunch with interests ranging from engineering affordable prosthetics for children to creating art on the global refugee crisis, the one thing that unites Knights is extreme school spirit. Even before its football team was pushed into the national spotlight, thousands of students would gather every year to charge into the campus Reflecting Pond and wrestle over rubber ducks in the annual homecoming Spirit Splash. And while local restaurants and coffee shops do cater to overworked and over-caffeinated college students, they’re still very much worth the drive from Orlando’s downtown core. Come for a game, and enjoy the rest.
Vespr | Photo by Jen Cray
Kung Fu Tea 12098 Collegiate Way, 407-286-2055, kungfutea.com If you need a sweet boba fix, Kung Fu Tea is the place to satisfy it. This international franchise has an extensive list of flavored teas and milk teas, along with interesting special mixes like pumpkin oolong milk tea.
Stagger Inn UCF 12190 Collegiate Way, facebook.com/staggerinnucf Stagger Inn includes all the drama of a regular college bar, but here the folks wear cowboy attire. Grab a pair of boots and come on over for a good ol’ country time.
EAT Insomnia Cookies
DRINK Knight Library 11448 University Blvd., 407-704-7477, knightlibrary.com Known more for its catalog of alcohols than any collection of books, Knight Library’s iconic parties and drink deals have gotten it recognition as one of the top college bars in America.
Vespr Coffeebar 626 N. Alafaya Trail, thevespr.com This is not your average study hot spot. Vespr combines classic cold brews and cappuccinos with a bourbon maple latte and Patagonia wild guava tea. For the late-night hours, this business also boasts a wine and craft beer bar.
for yourself and eight other friends.
Lazy Moon 11551 University Blvd., 407-658-2396, lazymoonpizza.com If you only visit one place near UCF, make it this one. You only need one mouthwatering slice of pizza perfection to get full.
GO Reflecting Pond 4000 Central Florida Blvd., 407-823-2000, ucf.edu When it’s not doubling as a lucha libre ring for rubber ducks, the Reflecting Pond is a popular spot where UCF students can study quietly or take a moment to just relax on a patch of grass near the pond.
12101 University Blvd., 407-901-1873, insomniacookies.com Drown yourself in all the snickerdoodle and oatmeal raisin delicacies you can handle at 2 a.m. with Insomnia Cookies. Try getting one à la mode with a scoop of ice cream on top.
Spectrum Stadium
Omelet Bar
Robinson Observatory
12250 Strategy Blvd., 407, 704-1597, omeletbar.com Breakfast is serious business at Omelet Bar. Build your own omelet creation, try the house’s lobster eggs Benedict or chow down the famous s’mores tower of pancakes dripping with white and chocolate syrup.
74 Neptune Drive, 407-823-2325, planets.ucf.edu Map the constellations and planets with a date at the Robinson Observatory on Knights Under the Stars. The event is free and allows the public to observe the skies from one of the best viewpoints in town.
Valkyrie Doughnuts
Little Big Econ State Forest
12226 Corporate Blvd., valkyriedoughnuts.com The fluffy little squares of dough served here are not only adorably Instagram-worthy, they’re also deliciously vegan. Make your day and get the “Big Fu*kin’ Doughnut”
1350 Snow Hill Road, Geneva, 407-971-3500 Less than 20 minutes from UCF, explore Florida like it used to be. Paddle down the Econlockhatchee River, or hike through more than 16 miles of forested lands.
orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 51
4465 Knights Victory Way, ucfknights.com The crown jewel of UCF’s athletic facilities that seats a little less than 45,000 people is needed now more than ever after the Knights’ recent undefeated season.
52 | neighborhoods | city guide | orlando weekly
{ neighborhoods }
International Drive
I
t’s funny how Orlando’s biggest industry is also the bane of every resident’s existence. For many, International Drive is strictly a workplace – and there’s little room to hang out among the millions of tourists who clog the tourism district every year. If our annual visitors don’t discourage you from dropping by one of I-Drive’s theme parks or kitschy attractions, the inhumane gridlock called Interstate 4 will do the trick. But avoiding this area of Orlando means missing out on a whole lot of gems, even if they are stuck between two different dinner theaters. Be a tourist in your town without ever having to pick up a passport.
Orlando Eye wonderful service, this churrascaria serves decadent cuts of meat in so many varieties you’ll have to come twice.
Tapa Toro 8481 International Drive, 407-226-2929, tapatoro.restaurant Chef Wendy Lopez and her team treat customers right with Spanish specialties like jamon Iberico, authentic paella and all the sangria you can slug.
Gostoso Bakery
EAT Nile Ethiopian Restaurant 7048 International Drive, 407-354-0026, nile07.com Finally, a place both vegetarians and carnivores can agree is delicious. This cozy Ethiopian eatery serves a savory array of meat and vegetable platters on top of spongy injera bread (no spoons needed).
Café Tu Tu Tango 8625 International Drive, 407-248-2222; cafetututango.com The tradition of Spanish tapas collides with the celebration of art to bring you Café Tu Tu Tango. Mouthwatering small plates of food go hand-in-hand with local artists and performers. Always remember to tip the fortune teller.
Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse 8282 International Drive, 407-370-0711, fogodechao.com If I-Drive is the land of Brazilian steakhouses, then Fogo de Chão is its king. Known for its
5472 International Drive, 407-447-8946, gostosobakery.us From pão de queijo (cheese bread) to delicacies like brigadeiro (a type of chocolate bonbon), you can find all the yummy Brazilian pastries you’d ever want at Gostoso Bakery.
DRINK Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar 9101 International Drive, 407-226-1600, cubalibrerestaurant.com Party people love Cuba Libre not only for its variety of handcrafted mojitos, but also for its commitment to playing the best in bachata, merengue and salsa every weekend.
Icebar Orlando 8967 International Drive, 407-351-0361, icebarorlando.com Claiming to be the “largest permanent ice bar in the world,” this frozen watering hole features 70 tons of hand-carved ice sculptures kept intact by keeping the temperature at 22 degrees. Party in free thermal parkas and gloves you’ll get from the bar’s “Ice Princesses.”
orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 53
GO
Gods & Monsters 5421 International Drive, 407-270-6273, godmonsters.com Gods & Monsters is one of the last surviving remnants of Artegon Marketplace, and thank the stars for it. Meet all your fantastical needs in this enormous comics and collectibles shop, with an added gaming bar.
I-Drive 360 8445 International Drive, 407-601-7907, i-drive360.com Mammoth entertainment complex that features the Orlando Aquarium, the breathtaking 400-foot-high views from the Orlando Eye and Madame Tussauds wax museum (where you can use a selfie stick without judgment).
Kings Dining & Entertainment 8255 International Drive, 407-363-0200, kings-de.com/Orlando Not your grandma’s bowling alley. Kings Dining & Entertainment features 22 lanes, billiards tables, a bocce court, ping-pong, shuffleboard and tasty appetizers.
Skeletons: Museum of Osteology 8441 International Drive, 407-203-6999, skeletonmuseum.com Celebrate vertebrate life in this family-owned museum that features the skeletons of hundreds of animals from all over the world.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! 8201 International Drive, 407-345-0501, ripleys.com/orlando Where else in Orlando can you find decorated Tibetan skulls, a real vampire-killing kit and a spinning vortex tunnel?
54 | neighborhoods | city guide | orlando weekly
{ neighborhoods }
Sand Lake Road/ Dr. Phillips
B
etween the celebrated “Restaurant Row” stretch of
Sand Lake Road and the ever-growing string of higherend boîtes and steakhouses along Dr. Phillips Boulevard, this has become the neighborhood to visit if you’re looking for a festive restaurant experience. Rapid growth has created traffic woes along the main strip, though, so if you’re looking to satisfy those bougie appetites, screw your patience to the sticking place. In November each year, the Dellagio Town Center hosts A Taste of Dr. Phillips, where you can taste it all at once.
Bartaco
Peperoncino
7600 Dr. Phillips Blvd., 407-8018226, bartaco.com Chill taquería inspired by the beach culture of Brazil, Uruguay and Southern California.
7988 Via Dellagio Way, 407-4402856, peperoncinocucina.com The narrow space is reminiscent of eateries in Italy, but the menu gives Old World-inspired cuisine a refreshing breath of life.
Slate 8323 W. Sand Lake Road, 407-5007528, slateorlando.com Handsomely appointed restaurant serves up safe, seasonal, well-executed fare.
Urbain 40 8000 Via Dellagio Way, 407-8722640, urbain40.com The Jazz Age speakeasy feel is in full swing at Urbain 40, an exquisite room serving upscale global cuisine.
Dragonfly Robata Grill & Sushi
Cedar’s Restaurant 7732 W. Sand Lake Road, 407-3516000, orlandocedars.com Their spin on traditional Lebanese brings a splendid lightness of texture and flavor to familiar dishes.
Rasa 7730 W. Sand Lake Road, 407-9300402, eatatrasa.com Combines the joy of Malaysian food-stall choices with a slick, clean presentation.
Kokino Tapas & Cocktails
7972 Via Dellagio Way, 407-3703359, dragonflyrestaurants.com They come for meats perfectly blistered over binchotan charcoal and artfully rolled sushi.
7705 Turkey Lake Road, 407-2709199, kokinorestaurant.com Swanky Latin-Asian tapas spot serves pleasing plates to the latenight crowd.
Le Café de Paris
Roy’s Restaurant
5170 Dr. Phillips Blvd., 407-2932326, shopcafeparis.com A recent renovation means more space in which to enjoy French pastries, sandwiches and soups.
7760 W. Sand Lake Road, 407-3524844, roysrestaurant.com Roy Yamaguchi’s Hawaiian hospitality transforms meals into experiences.
Rocco’s Tacos and Tequila Bar
Eddie V’s Prime Seafood
7468 W. Sand Lake Road, 407-2260550, roccostacos.com The bar stocking more than 400 types of tequila keeps this joint raucous most nights.
The Whiskey 7563 W. Sand Lake Road, 407-9306517, downatthewhiskey.com For those given to pairing gourmet burgers with whiskey-forward craft cocktails.
7488 W. Sand Lake Road, 407-3553011, eddiev.com Steaks thick as a brick and big, beautiful seafood.
The Pharmacy 8060 Via Dellagio Way, 407-9852972, thepharmacyorlando.com One of the best joints in town is cleverly disguised behind a pair of innocent elevator doors. Creativity starts in the kitchen and continues with stiff craft cocktails.
orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 57
58 | neighborhoods | city guide | orlando weekly
{ neighborhoods }
Gateway District
T
High Tide Harry’s | Photo by Jen Cray
he Gateway Orlando District is the city’s newest Main Street District, according to their new website: “Welcoming Orlando’s visitors and residents to the multicultural business district just north of Orlando International Airport.” We’re just glad to have a name to put to the corridor of deliciousness that locals know runs along that stretch of Semoran Boulevard. With all the development happening around MCO, a slew of newer chain restaurants has joined those longtime favorites, but adding award-winning Korean fried chicken wings to a neighborhood known for stellar Latin mom-and-pops and old Orlando hangs is just win-win-win, as far as we’re concerned.
EAT
DRINK
Bonchon
Bar Louie
5475 Gateway Village Circle, 407-270-8565, bonchon.com Some say Bonchon serves the world’s best wings. Whether you agree or not, there’s no denying the excellence of the delicate spice blend and crackly-crisp twicefried exterior, and the Korean accompaniments of daikon radish and kimchi make for a nice change from the same-old, same-old SportsWings™.
7015 S. Semoran Blvd., 407-8457080, barlouie.com New location of the popular happyhour spot offers a resting place to calm the nerves before or after a flight, or just a chill hangout while you wait to pick up out-of-towners.
High Tide Harry’s 4645 S. Semoran Blvd., 407-273-4422, hightideharrys.com Shrimp, crab, oysters, mussels and crawfish by the pound … frog legs, cracked conch and hot smoked fish dip … bone-in catfish, sea scallops and gumbo … if you look hard enough around this comfy Floridian spot, you might even find Nemo.
Oh! Que Bueno 1125 S. Semoran Blvd., 407-447-5026, ohquebueno.com Colombian food may be the nightmare of cardiologists, but it’s the delight of everyone else. Beef, chicharrón, eggs, cheesestuffed arepas, fried yuca and black sausage come together at Oh! Que Bueno in a carnivorous dreamworld.
GO Park of the Americas 201 Andes Ave., 407-246-2283, cityoforlando.net/parks A half-mile-long path through the picturesque park offers five workout stations, plus a dog park; shade pavilions, picnic tables and grills; and a tot lot with swings, climbers and motion activities for the kids.
Lee Vista Epic XL Theatres 5901 Hazeltine National Drive, 407259-2368, epictheatres.com Reclining seating, huge screens, and a beer and wine bar make this a comfy spot to catch a flick.
Orlando International Airport 1 Jeff Fuqua Blvd., 407-825-2001, orlandoairports.net Get the hell out of town and explore the world!
orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 59
60 | road trips | city guide | orlando weekly
{ road trips }
Sanford
L
ess “Orlando North,” as Seminole County officials dubbed it to attract more tourists, than simply north of Orlando, Sanford is one those small charming towns that make you want to say good riddance to the city and hello to the clean, crisp air. Bordered by lakes and a gratifying amount of eclectic culture, it’s both a nature lover’s and a homebody’s cozy Americana dream. Zoom Air
Hollerbach’s Willow Tree Café 205 E. First St., Sanford, 407-321-2204, willowtreecafe.com Come for the German food and beer, stay because you’ve never felt so comfortable wearing your lederhosen in public.
The Original Christo’s 107 W. First St., Sanford, 407-320-0799, theoriginalchristos.com As grass-roots as they come, the Original Christo’s is every inch an O.G. local diner. To hell with all of the trendy eateries, this is real food for real people.
Fuel BBQ 120 S. Park Ave., Sanford, 407-328-4848, fuelbbq.com Barbecue as it’s meant to be served – on a metal tray and without the frills. From there, get down next door at the Alley, a live blues venue owned by the same folks.
Wondermade 214 E. First St., Sanford, 407-205-9569, wondermade.com Handmade marshmallows (served toasted on sticks or sandwiched in s’mores) and ice cream in flavors like Guinness, pretzel, violet,
cornbread and blueberry cobbler are startlingly addictive. Once you pop, you can’t stop.
Sanford Brewing Co. 400 S. Sanford Ave., Sanford, 407-732-6419, sanfordbrewing.com When gastropub meets brewery, this is the result. Try a flight of one of their in-house brews.
Little Fish Huge Pond 401 S. Sanford Ave., Sanford, 407-221-1499, littlefish-hugepond.com Intimate soul performances, pirate parties, hookah-passing and then some – you never quite know what you’ll get when it comes to this boozy hangout.
Katie’s Landing at Wekiva River 262 Wekiva Park Drive, Sanford, 407-8842009, katieslanding.com For those who are paddle-sport happy, this is essentially Mecca. But make sure to call ahead or use their online reservation page, just to be safe.
Zoom Air Adventure Park 3755 W. Seminole Blvd., Sanford, 407-3300767, zoomair.us Do you like obstacle courses and zip-lines and things that get your blood pumping? If so, join Zoom Air Adventure Park for one of their unique eco-adventures.
The Stranded Sailor Pub 418 Sanford Ave., Sanford, 407-878-2519, facebook.com/thestrandedsailor We all have a little stranded sailor in us, so why not be marooned at beer-sea at one of the most laid-back joints in town?
Sanford Riverwalk Consider this the main vein of Sanford. Spend a day jaunting up and down the city’s Riverwalk, and make sure to stop by one of the parks along the way for a breezy rest.
orlando weekly | city guide | road trips | 61
Fuel BBQ | Photo by Rob Bartlett
62 | road trips | city guide | orlando weekly
{ road trips }
St. Augustine
T
he oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine is a beach town with all the tourist trappings, a college town with Flagler College nestled in the heart of the city, a city rich in historical architecture, and a party town all at once. But it’s also increasingly becoming known as a music town thanks to the St. Augustine Amphitheatre and various smaller venues dotted around the city, as well as a destination for those interested in good food and drink. We already know you’re probably gonna visit Castillo De San Marcos, Ripley’s and the Fountain of Youth while you’re there, but save time for a leisurely stroll around downtown, where there’s plenty to do and see either day or night, and maybe pop in to check out a few of these local treasures.
Ice Plant Bar 110 Riberia St., St. Augustine, 904-829-6553, iceplantbar.com Retro in presentation down to the detail – think early 20th-century Prohibition Era chic – but very much modern in its locally sourced and adventurous food and drinks menu. A craft cocktail at Ice Plant is the perfect capper to a day of searching for the Fountain of Youth.
O’Steen’s Restaurant 205 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine, 904-8296974, osteensrestaurant.com This family-run seafood joint on Anastasia Island has been going strong for over half a century and is still packing them in with generous portions of fresh, fried (or broiled, as you like) seafood and sundry Southern dishes.
Ice Plant Bar
Medieval Torture Collection 100 St. George St., St. Augustine, 904-3737777, medievaltorturemuseum.com Discover the blood-soaked origins of Marsellus Wallace’s immortal “get medieval on your ass” line from Pulp Fiction with this museum’s recreations of the most sadistic and ghoulish instruments of torture in the name of God and/or country. Not for the faint of heart!
Present Moment Cafe 226 W. King St., St. Augustine, 904-827-4499, presentmomentcafe.com If the terms “vegan“ and “raw” signal narrowing culinary options to you, one visit to Present Moment will dispel that notion entirely. Their menu is a wonder of lovingly prepared, refreshing, healthy eats that are a testament to the creativity of the staff. Check out their extensive fresh juice selection too.
St. Augustine Amphitheatre 1340C A1A South, St. Augustine, 904-2090367, staugamphitheatre.com A unique partnership between St. Johns County and a dedicated staff of obsessive music fans has resulted in one of the most exciting outdoor venues in the state. The
orlando weekly | city guide | road trips | 63
programming is eclectic and vibrant, with upcoming shows by everyone from Black Angels to Yanni to the National to Hank Williams Jr.
Tonevendor 81 King St., St. Augustine, 904-342-7981, tonevendor.com Hiding in plain sight in the heart of the bustling downtown area, Tonevendor’s unassuming exterior hides a music lover’s mecca. It’s stuffed to the gills with new and used records of all genres. Crucially, they place as much energy toward impressive jazz and electronic sections as they do good ol’ rock and indie.
Wolf’s Museum of Mystery 46 Charlotte St., St. Augustine, 904-342-8377, wolfsmuseumofmystery.com Consider giving Ripley’s a pass and instead check out this delightfully bonkers collection of oddities packed into what we can only conclude is a haunted house. Ostensibly the personal collection of namesake Wolfgang Von Mertz (an attorney by day), where else can you see Kevorkian paintings, a Fiji Mermaid, a Hammer Horror-level shrine to Countess Bathory, an iron lung and random cats sleeping among the exhibits?
64 | road trips | city guide | orlando weekly
{ road trips }
Mount Dora
T
he quaint little town has long been a destination for antique hunters – the streets of the downtown area are lined with shops full of collectibles, and nearby Renninger’s holds Antique Extravaganzas three times per year, welcoming vintage and antique dealers from around the country. But it’s not all antiques these days, with a flowering of cultural and culinary activity blossoming. There’s no denying that it’s a gray-haired town, but these are the kind of retirees that really know how to have fun. You’ll see.
Peter Shire Room with Valentine Typewriter | Modernism Museum
1921 by Norman Van Aken 142 E. Fourth Ave., Mount Dora, 352-385-1921, 1921nva.com When celebrated chef Norman Van Aken announced plans to open a resto in Mount Dora, some were surprised – but only those who hadn’t already tasted the delights of this little town. Van Aken and his protégé, chef-prodigy Camilo Velasco, create masterpieces the equal of those in the Modernism Museum just steps away from the dining room.
Joy Donuts Modernism Museum 145 E. Fourth Ave., Mount Dora, 352-3850034, modernismmuseum.org The Modernism Museum offers a look at an organic vision of the future, articulated in beautiful midcentury furniture. This year’s show, an exhibition of pieces from David Bowie’s personal collection of pieces by the Italian design movement Memphis, is a barnstormer that you’ll curse yourself for missing. What are you waiting for?
Intersection of 441 and Wolf Branch Road, Mount Dora, 702-497-5889, joy-donuts.com The moist, light, fluffy cake doughnuts served from this little pink food truck will make a believer out of raised-yeast doughnut loyalists. Try the blueberry dip or the vanilla crack.
Palm Island Park 411 S. Tremain St., Mount Dora An 8-acre nature preserve in the heart of the town where you’ll see egrets, ospreys, herons, anhingas, alligators and amazingly lush Florida live oaks, cypress and palms. A mile-
orlando weekly | city guide | road trips | 65
long boardwalk takes you on a nature walk loop through the oak hammock.
Lakeside Inn 100 Alexander St., Mount Dora, 352-383-4101, lakeside-inn.com The Lakeside is the oldest continuously operating hotel in Florida, and watching the sunset from the rocking chairs on its welcoming porch is a Mount Dora tradition.
Pisces Rising 239 W. Fourth Ave., Mount Dora, piscesrisingdining.com On the other hand, if rocking at the Lakeside isn’t quite rockin’ enough for you, sunset cocktails on the Pisces Rising patio is the place to be for the under-70 set. Outstanding.
Mount Dora Seaplane Tours 352-508-1800, jonesairandsea.com Jones Brothers and Co. offers various “flightseeing” tours around the area. Meet them at the Lakeside Inn dock for a splash-and-dash and get a bird’s-eye view.
66 | road trips | city guide | orlando weekly
{ road trips }
Kissimmee
F
orever in the shadow of Disney World and surrounding theme parks, Kissimmee often gets stereotyped as a place where there’s nothing to do. But that’s not true – you just have to know where to look. For kitschy attractions and tourist thrills, head down Highway 192 to check out Capone’s Dinner and Show or the Visitors Flea Market – and if you’re feeling a little bougie, enjoy a Mediterranean feast at Villa de Flora at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center. The downtown streets boast quaint boutiques and historic architecture that makes for a picturesque postcard. And the rest of Kissimmee has a raw spirit that can only be observed, never tamed – from the alligators that roam the waters at Shingle Creek Regional Park to the cowboys who wrestle steers at Silver Spurs Rodeo. Kissimmee is a lot of different things – but dull is not one of them.
Old Town
Buchito 131 Broadway Ave., Kissimmee, 407-483-7813, facebook.com/buchitorestaurant This small business feels more “abuela” than “mom-and-pop.” Buchito combines authentic Cuban dishes like picadillo and ropa vieja with a lot of café con leche. After rifling through the antiques at nearby Lanier’s Historic Downtown Marketplace, make your way to Buchito for a Benny Cuban.
Old Town
Savion’s Place
5770 West Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, Kissimmee, 407-396-4888, myoldtownusa.com Will you have to employ some questionable methods to find parking? Yes. Is it worth it? Also yes. Old Town looks like a classic Florida town full of eccentric shops, a haunted manor, robot fortuneteller machines and a rainbow Ferris wheel. Every week, owners of classic cars bring their prized vehicles for a little cruising.
16 E. Dakin Ave., Kissimmee, 407-572-8719, savionsplace.com Chef Pouchon Savion brings a modern spin to traditional American staple dishes in downtown Kissimmee. Try the fried plantain bowl with grilled chicken or their famous lobster bisque.
Fun Spot America 2850 Florida Plaza Blvd., Kissimmee, 407-3972509, fun-spot.com Next door to Old Town is this small theme park that boasts a wooden rollercoaster, a four-story high go-kart track and the SkyCoaster, a thrilling flight above the crowds.
features a small lighthouse, strolling paths and a great place to have a picnic. Walk over to the Monument of States nearby – a 1943 folk art piece dedicated to the bond formed between states after the Pearl Harbor attack.
Marsh Landing Adventures 2830 Neptune Road, Kissimmee, 407-6240973, orlandoairboattours.com Explore Florida’s swamps and the creatures that live in it on the best form of transportation – an airboat. Marsh Landing Adventures will take you through the enclaves of Shingle Creek, the headwaters of the Everglades.
Tropico Mofongo 3160 Vineland Road, Kissimmee, 407-3977666, tropicomofongo.com Get authentic Puerto Rican delights at this small restaurant like mofongo con camarones, habichuelas guisadas and all the roast pork you can handle.
Kissimmee Lakefront Park 201 Lakeview Drive, Kissimmee, kissimmee.org This lovely park at the edge of the water
orlando weekly | city guide | road trips | 67
Orange World Souvenir Center
68 | road trips | city guide | orlando weekly
{ road trips }
Space Coast
T
hough the Space Coast went through some tough times after the local economy was dealt a heavy blow following the shutdown of NASA’s space shuttle program in 2011, things are looking up now. Much has been made of real-life comic book character Elon Musk’s space cannons or whatever he’s doing out there, but the area also boasts a booming craft beer scene and more than a few delicious bites to go along with its laid-back beach-town vibe – though there’s plenty of other stuff to do if you’re not interested in being a beach bum.
Playalinda Brewing Co. | Photo by Jen Cray
Da Kine Diego’s Insane Burritos 1360 A1A, Satellite Beach, 321-779-8226, facebook.com/dakinediegos This popular surfer hangout has been serving up massive two-hands-necessary burritos for more than two decades.
Lou’s Blues 3191 A1A, Indialantic, 321-779-2299, lousbluesupstairs.com A beachside blues bar with live music every night of the week.
Charlie and Jake’s Barbecue Dixie Crossroads 1475 Garden St., Titusville, 321-268-5000, dixiecrossroads.com Lines frequently wrap around the building at this Space Coast mainstay serving lobster, steak and locally caught shrimp along with their famous corn fritters.
Cosmic Vinyl 1329 S. Washington Ave., Titusville, 321-5141032, cosmicvinylrecords.com Devoted to music, Cosmic Vinyl is both a record shop and intimate music venue. Plus, they can use their record lathe to cut a custom piece of vinyl just for you.
Victory Casino Cruises 180 Christopher Columbus Drive, B2, Cape Canaveral, 855-468-4286, victorycasinocruises.com If you’ve got the cash to burn, Victory will help you lose it with a variety of slot, card and table games. And with free drinks while you’re on the gambling deck, you’ll still feel like a winner.
490 E. Eau Gallie Blvd., Indian Harbour Beach, 321-777-7675, charlieandjakes.com This Alabama-style barbecue joint on the beach is the result of a NASA employee being transferred from Huntsville to Cape Canaveral more than 20 years ago.
The Original Bizzarro Famous NY Pizza 4 Wavecrest Ave., Indialantic, 321-724-4799, theoriginalbizzarro.com A New York-style pizza mainstay that’s so beloved by locals, they once changed the name of the street it’s on to Bizzarro Way.
Heidi’s Jazz Club 7 N. Orlando Ave., Cocoa Beach, 321-7834559, heidisjazzclub.com A date-night favorite, Heidi’s offers patrons food and drink in an upscale setting along with live jazz performances from local and touring musicians.
Playalinda Brewing Co. 305 S. Washington Ave., Titusville, 321-2258978, playalindabrewingcompany.com Former Cask & Larder cicerone Ron Raike
orlando weekly | city guide | road trips | 69
runs this celebrated brewery on the Space Coast.
Meg O’Malley’s 812 E. New Haven Ave., Melbourne, 321-9525510, megomalleys.com This Melbourne Irish pub is the spot to have a few pints and enjoy live Celtic music nearly every weekend.
Debauchery 807 E. New Haven Ave., Melbourne, 321-8214914, downtowndebauchery.com Stop in early for the decent happy hour specials, but stay late for the eclectic entertainment offerings.
Brix Project 5220 S. Washington Ave., Titusville, 321-5675974, playalindabrewingcompany.com An offshoot of Playalinda Brewing, the Brix Project houses a production brewery in a renovated lumberyard and serves a variety of burgers, entrees and flatbreads.
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex West Nasa Parkway, Merritt Island, 855-4334210, kennedyspacecenter.com Get an up-close look at the history and future of the U.S. space program with plenty of exhibits, tours and IMAX movies.
King Center for the Performing Arts 3865 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne, 321-2422219, kingcenter.com Melbourne’s performing arts center draws some of the best musicians, comedians, Broadway productions and more to the Space Coast.
70 | road trips | city guide | orlando weekly
{ road trips }
Tampa
O
ur neighbor to the South is in many ways as much a study in contrasts as Orlando is. Both a college town (home of the University of South Florida and University of Tampa) and a tourist destination (visitors flock to Busch Gardens and the French Quarter-esque Ybor City) Tampa holds just as much local charm and hidden treasures as we do. The quirky Seminole Heights neighborhood is a hub for local creativity and diversity up there with our own Mills 50 and Audubon Park areas, not to mention myriad furiously talented local bands and performers. At a drive of a little over an hour – Disney traffic permitting – it’s a perfect city for repeated trips.
Oxford Exchange, then and now
art exhibitions, installations and multimedia shows. One of the original members of the collective was Florida Prize winner and OMA exhibitor Noelle Mason.
CW’s Gin Joint The Castle 2004 N. 16th St., Tampa, 813-247-7547, castleybor.com For a truly unique weekend outing in the bustling epicenter of Ybor City nightlife, you can’t go wrong with this imposing gothic (in every sense of the word) edifice. Hosting goth, industrial and old wave nights, the Castle has been ground zero for darker music going back decades. See the place that no doubt inspired SNL’s Goth Night skit; spankings are (we kid you not) on offer too.
Cunst Haus 4634 N. Florida Ave., Tampa, 813-340-9056, tempus-projects.com/cunsthaus.html Forward-thinking nonprofit women-run art collective and gallery space that regularly holds challenging and completely engaging
633 N. Franklin St., Tampa, 813-816-1446, cwginjoint.com Hotly tipped new downtown craft cocktail bar with an ornately grandiose interior matched by their mammoth “gin matrix” cocktail menu, which they ably execute. The hype is real.
Oxford Exchange 420 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, 813-253-0222, oxfordexchange.com Impressively metropolitan in appearance and vibe – an 1891 building updated for the 21st century – the Exchange is a combination coffee shop and bookstore that goes far beyond usual café offerings with their breakfast, lunch, brunch and afternoon tea menus.
Steelworker Records 708 W. Doctor M.L.K. Jr. Blvd., Tampa, 813666-4933, steelworkerrecords.com For a relatively new store, Steelworker has
orlando weekly | city guide | road trips | 71
quickly become one of the best record shops in Florida for fans of metal, noise, hardcore, experimental music and everything in between. Low on battered old Billy Joel LPs and high on world music rarities, Steelworker is a hidden gem. Pro tip: Wander over to Grindhouse Video next door to have your mind blown by a mountain of obscure horror and B-movie weirdness.
La Teresita 3248 W. Columbus Drive, Tampa, 813-8799704, lateresitarestaurant.com A local institution since the early 1990s, this family restaurant is a must-visit for hungry diners interested in cheap, amazing Cuban food. Crucially, open late most nights.
Xtreme Tacos 310 E. Waters Ave., Tampa, 813-570-6407, xtremetacos.com “Mexican-American fusion with West Coast flair” is the mission statement of this new taqueria that’s angling to bump the mighty Taco Bus off its throne. The menu overflows with creative twists on tacos, tostadas, tortas, quesadillas and more.
72 | listings | city guide | orlando weekly
Music & Nightlife
L
ocal and live music in Orlando is reaching critical mass at present, with more touring acts coming through the City Beautiful and scores of new bands, projects and performers. To accommodate all of this activity, a handful of new venues have opened to augment an already diverse array of performance spaces. It’s an exciting time to be a concertgoer in Orlando; on any given night there’s something for all tastes on ready offer. And, of course, dancing and clubbing is an evergreen activity in Orlando and there’s no shortage of ready and willing dancefloors to accommodate those hungry for a twirl or sashay (or head-nod, we guess). Try some place new tonight from this handy set of listings; it’d be a shame to stay in with this much going on.
“Come as you are at the Go Lounge (1998)” | Photo by Jim Leatherman
LIVE MUSIC Amway Center 400 W. Church St. , 407-440-7000, amwaycenter.com Lana Del Rey, Jay Z and Dead & Company have all made the Amway a tour stop – this big-league arena also is home to the Magic and the Solar Bears, only a few steps from downtown.
The Beacham 46 N. Orange Ave., 407-246-1419, thebeacham.com The downtown concert venue provides a much-needed home for larger-scale shows in the center of the city – think Little Dragon, X or Kali Uchis. The open floor provides multiple pathways to edge your way up to the front, though good luck navigating tightly packed crowds.
Blackstar/Odd Jobs 46 W. Concord Street, theblackstar.club The ambitious new Blackstar complex
orlando weekly | city guide | listings | 73
downtown unites a number of local music scene movers and shakers to create a new home for adventurous music and art. So far they’ve impressed, and this is only the beginning.
Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts 1905 Kentucky Ave., Winter Park, 407-6369951, bluebambooartcenter.com Triple-threat performance space/art gallery/ recording studio hosts the full sonic spectrum of jazz, classical and world music, as well as theater and literary events.
CFE Arena 12777 N. Gemini Blvd., 407-823-6006, cfearena.com The erstwhile UCF Arena has moved well beyond the status of student venue. The complex seats roughly 10,000 and hosts pop, rock and hip-hop, as well as comedy and other events. It’s a welcome connection between UCF and the broader show-going populace of the city. CONTINUED ON PAGE 75
74 | listings | city guide | orlando weekly
Music & Nightlife Backbooth) pulls off the deft balancing act of hosting late-night themed dance nights alongside earlier, all-ages-friendly shows with everyone from Cupcakke to Memphis May Fire.
Stardust Video and Coffee 1842 E. Winter Park Road, 407-623-3393, stardustie.com This College Park eatery/bar also plays host to a wide array of leftfield music events – recently taking in everything from ragged indie rock to techno-industrial to meditative electronics.
Tanqueray’s Bar
Independent Bar | Photo by Christopher Keith Garcia CONTINUED FROM PAGE 73
The Falcon Bar 819 E. Washington St., 407-423-3060, thefalconbar.com Intimate bar and impromptu venue has been anchoring Thornton Park for a few years now and has increasingly been providing a comfy home for underground shows of the electronic or full-band type; that’s in addition to an already bustling calendar of open mic and comedy nights.
Hard Rock Live 6050 Universal Blvd., 407-351-5483, hardrock.com/live Venture deep into the heart of Universal’s CityWalk entertainment complex for entertainment that straddles mainstream (the Killers), nostalgic (Alice Cooper) and outsidethe-lines (Phantogram) all at once.
The Haven Lounge 6700 Aloma Ave., Winter Park, 407-673-2712, thehavenrocks.com The musical menu on offer at this roomy Winter Park club is loud, heavy, metal and that’s pretty much it. A perfect landing spot for distortion that’s a little too big for the likes of Lou’s. Top-shelf sound and lights, too.
Henao Contemporary Center 5601 Edgewater Drive, 407-272-0317, henaocenter.com Sprawling arts center a short trip down Edgewater has played host to myriad arts events, sure, but they’ve also housed shows by cutting-edge collectives like SR50, Colours of the Culture and Ugly Orange.
100 S. Orange Ave., 407-649-8540, facebook.com/tanqueraysbar Premier smoky downstairs dive whose more open booking policy provides an entrée point for locals to downtown. The likes of the Mellow Relics and Timothy Eerie have held unofficial residencies there.
House of Blues
Timucua White House
1490 E. Buena Vista Drive, 407-934-2583, hob.com Shows may start on the early side, but that’s really the only overt sign that this concert venue is nestled in the Disney Springs adult playground. Expect to see anything from Senses Fail to Fleet Foxes. The sightlines and sound system are recommended.
2000 S. Summerlin Ave., 407-595-2713, timucua.com A truly unique live music experience. Tucked away in an unassuming South Orlando neighborhood, the White House (for it is indeed a house) offers incredible natural acoustics, a near cathedral-like setting and an adventurous event slate.
Iron Cow
Uncle Lou’s Entertainment Hall
2438 E. Robinson St., 407-317-4197, ironcowcafe.business.site New Milk District space steered by the people behind Sandwich Bar is an expanded space for live music (Zigtebra, Terror Pigeon) and club nights (Body//Talk), further enticing the curious with a full food and drink menu.
1016 N. Mills Ave., 407-898-0009 For better or for whatever, there is nowhere else like Uncle Lou’s in the City Beautiful. A close-quarters, gritty staging area for DIY music both local and national, where (almost) anything goes.
The Veranda at Thornton Park The Plaza Live 425 N. Bumby Ave., 407-228-1220, plazaliveorlando.com This Milk District mainstay has found a new footing in partnership with the Orlando Philharmonic, hosting shows by the Phil plus a wide-ranging slate of ’80s icons, guitar legends and comics.
111 N. Summerlin Ave., 407-408-6804, theverandalive.com New outdoor venue in Thornton Park presents a few intriguing twists on the concertgoing experience: shows are free and start and end early in a bucolic outdoor setting. So far they’ve hosted acts ranging from Sean Holcomb to the Hate Bombs.
The Social
Will’s Pub
54 N. Orange Ave., 407-246-1419, thesocial.org Mainstay downtown venue is the very definition of “intimate”; on most nights this small room is packed to the gills with the devoted, straining to get as close as possible to their favorite touring artist.
1042 N. Mills Ave., willspub.org The Will’s/Lil’ Indies compound is an essential component of both local scene-building and providing a stage to touring acts of all adventurous stripes. The event calendar reads like a genre collage, and that’s a very good thing.
Soundbar 37 W. Pine St., facebook.com/soundbar.orl Rebranded, retooled and under new management, Soundbar (formerly
orlando weekly | city guide | listings | 75
CONTINUED ON PAGE 77
76 | listings | city guide | orlando weekly
Music & Nightlife
Hooch at Wall St. Plaza | Photo by Rob Bartlett CONTINUED FROM PAGE 75
DRINKING & DANCING
the details, boasting three bars and several private cabanas, but the focus in on a dancefloor soundtracked by a rotating cast of local and touring DJs.
CityWalk at Universal 6000 Universal Studios Plaza, universalorlando.com This no-cover complex of bars and clubs tucked away within the Universal Studios sprawl offers plenty of opportunity for a little more grownup-oriented fun outside of the province of Harry Potter at Rising Star, the Groove, the Red Coconut Club and more.
Gilt Nightclub 740 Bennett Road, 407-5047699, giltnightclub.com The lushly renovated, 10-bar, dual-dancefloor nightclub Gilt is a significant upgrade from a previous incarnation as the Roxy, so put on your essential attire and check out DJs from Ookay to DJ Icey.
Independent Bar 70 N. Orange Ave., 407839-0457, facebook.com/ independentbarorlando Downtown’s I-Bar is the destination of choice for those who want a little something more indie from their nightclub adventures. Don’t worry, though, the dancefloor is spacious and multiple bars will melt away hesitations to dance.
Ono Nightclub 1 S. Orange Ave., 407-701-9859, ononightclub.com This two-level downtown superclub knows the devil is in
Peek Downtown 50B E. Central Blvd., 407-7345107 Peek Downtown dispenses with over-the-top glitz and glam to focus on an event slate of deepcut DJ and dance nights. Techno and house rule the day … or night.
Tier Nightclub 20 E. Central Blvd., 407-222-9732, tiernightclub.com Two-story, five-bar megaclub downtown that gives you glamorous license to dress up and get wild on any number of DJ/dance nights. Bottle service too, you say?
Vinyl Arts Bar 75 E. Colonial Drive, facebook.com/vinylartsbar This beer and wine spot in the North Quarter brings a dance-heavy DJ regimen to the neighborhood; event bookings have expanded to include literary readings and art events beside the requisite DJ nights.
Wall Street Plaza 27 Wall St., 407-849-1532, wallstplaza.net Seven clubs congregate on one entire block of prime downtown real estate given over to the Wall Street complex, a nightly magnet for anybody ready for some drinking and mingling. Weekends are madness.
orlando weekly | city guide | listings | 77
78 | listings | city guide | orlando weekly
Arts & Culture
C
onsidering the massive amount of creative talent required to keep the region’s theme parks cast, costumed, painted and polished to such a high degree of perfection, it’s not at all surprising that there’s a surfeit of artistic talent in this town. Dive in and enjoy.
GALLERIES AND MUSEUMS
Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens 633 Osceola Ave., Winter Park, 407-647-6294, polasek.org The Czech artist’s former residence is now a gallery, surrounded by gorgeous lakeside gardens full of his bronze sculptures.
Art and History Museums – Maitland 231 W. Packwood Ave., Maitland, 407-5392181, artandhistory.org The cultural complex includes the Maitland Art Center (a National Historic Landmark), the Germaine Marvel multi-use space, the Victorian-era Waterhouse Residence, the Telephone Museum and the Carpentry Shop Museum.
Atlantic Center for the Arts 1414 Art Center Ave., New Smyrna Beach, 386427-6975, atlanticcenterforthearts.org The residency program, which draws internationally renowned visual artists, writers and musicians, also offers public exhibits and performances several times per year.
Casa Feliz Historic Home Museum 656 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407-628-8200, casafeliz.us Winter Park’s landmark farmhouse, designed by noted architect James Gamble Rogers in 1932, hosts art, music and talks on historical preservation within its luxurious walls.
Casselberry Art House 127 Quail Pond Circle, Casselberry, 407-2627725, casselberry.org A midcentury residence the city converted to an experimental gallery set in the lovely environs of Lake Concord Park.
The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art 445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407-645-5311, morsemuseum.org
This museum features an astounding collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, including a wing dedicated to recreating the essence of Laurelton Hall, Tiffany’s Long Island estate.
CityArts Factory 29 S. Orange Ave., 407-648-7060, cityartsfactory.com This downtown arts space is the center of Orlando’s Third Thursday art strolls. It hosts shows that change monthly, and it’s home to a number of independent galleries and arts spaces.
Cornell Fine Arts Museum 1000 Holt Ave., Winter Park, 407-646-2526, rollins.edu/cfam Tucked away on the campus of Rollins College, this museum recently received a major gift of contemporary art, the Alfond Collection, from a pair of alumni.
Casselberry Art House
Faith Arts Village Orlando 221 E. Colonial Drive, 407-222-1231, faithartsvillage.com This ministry of Park Lake Presbyterian Church, housed in an old motel, provides individual artists studios and hosts a monthly art market.
Flying Horse Editions 500 W. Livingston St., 407-235-3619, flyinghorse.cah.ucf.edu University of Central Florida’s fine art research facility and nonprofit publisher of limitededition prints and multiple-edition art objects.
Gallery at Avalon Island 39 S. Magnolia Ave., avalongallery.org The historic building recalls Orlando’s past; the sophisticated exhibits within feature local, national and international artists.
Crealdé School of Art
Gallery Eola
600 St. Andrews Blvd., Winter Park, 407-6711886, crealde.org The school, set in lakeside bungalows with a sculpture garden, is known for creative classes as well as ever-changing gallery shows.
818 E. Washington St., 407-793-6982, galleryeola.com New Thornton Park white-box makes up in adventurous curation what it lacks in size. CONTINUED ON PAGE 83
orlando weekly | city guide | listings | 79
80 | listings | city guide | orlando weekly
orlando weekly | city guide | listings | 81
82 | listings | city guide | orlando weekly
Arts & Culture CONTINUED FROM PAGE 79
Hannibal Square Heritage Center 642 W. New England Ave., Winter Park, 407539-2680, hannibalsquareheritagecenter.org Established in 2007, the gallery presents exhibitions and displays archival photos and historical documents related to the AfricanAmerican experience in the evolving west Winter Park neighborhood.
Henao Contemporary Center 5601 Edgewater Drive, 407-272-0317, henaocenter.com Roomy new visual arts facility in a lesserknown part of town also hosts music, spoken word, dance and other arts events.
The Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center of Florida 851 N. Maitland Ave., Maitland, 407-628-0555, holocaustedu.org The tiny gallery within the Jewish Community Center hosts rotating exhibits that challenge the viewer.
The Mennello Museum of American Art 900 E. Princeton St., 407-246-4278, mennellomuseum.com The space is small, but it packs a lot of punch. It’s a showcase for works by folk artist Earl Cunningham and an eclectic mix of traveling exhibitions.
The Terrace Gallery Orlando City Hall, 400 S. Orange Ave., 407246-4279, cityoforlando.net/arts This gallery showcases some of the city of Orlando’s public art collection, as well as nationally touring and locally curated exhibitions.
511 W. South St., 407-245-7535, wellsbuilt.org Housed in a historic hotel, Well’s Built is a trove of African-American artifacts.
Zora Neale Hurston National Museum of Fine Arts 227 E. Kennedy Blvd., Eatonville, 407-6473307, facebook.com/zorafestival2016 This little gallery is devoted to AfricanAmerican history and culture, and features the often-challenging work of contemporary artists of African descent.
THEATERS AND PERFORMING ARTS GROUPS
The Abbey 100 S. Eola Drive, 407-704-6261, abbeyorlando.com A small mixed-use room in an ornate setting – with full bar service – hosts cabaret, comedy, community theater and concerts, as well as the Orlando Ballet Uncorked series.
Athens Theatre 124 N. Florida Ave., DeLand, 386-736-1500, athensdeland.com DeLand’s restored historic theater hosts a resident community theater group, youth theater and concerts.
Orlando Museum of Art 2416 N. Mills Ave., 407-896-4231, omart.org Nestled into Loch Haven Park, the newly reinvigorated OMA shows work by major artists as well as homegrown talent.
Redefine Gallery 29 S. Orange Ave., 407-648-7060, redefinegallery.com A tiny space within CityArts, Redefine is the area’s most reliable purveyor of cutting-edge graffiti and street art.
Snap Space and Snap Downtown 1013 E. Colonial Drive and 420 E. Church St., 407-286-2185, snaporlando.com Slick photography-centric galleries – one in Mills 50 in the historic Cameo Theatre and one east of downtown in the 420 East building – host the best art parties in town.
410 N. Orange Blossom Trail, 407-425-7571, parliamenthouse.com The legendary gay resort is home to this small theater, which thrills audiences with drag delights and original comedies, musicals and guest productions.
Well’s Built Museum
Orange County Regional History Center 65 E. Central Blvd., 407-836-8500, thehistorycenter.org This storehouse of archived wonders fills its exhibition spaces with traveling exhibitions as well as homegrown collections.
Footlight Theatre at Parliament House
Bach Festival Society 1000 Holt Ave., Winter Park, 407-646-2182, bachfestivalflorida.org BFS presents an annual season of classical music, performed by the 160 volunteer members as well as visiting artists.
Bob Carr Theater 401 W. Livingston St., 844-513-2014, drphillipscenter.org Now operated by the Dr. Phillips Center, this old standby still hosts the Orlando Phil, as well as concerts and comedians.
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts 445 S. Magnolia Ave., 844-513-2014, drphillipscenter.org Brand-new and beautiful, downtown’s airy glass-and-steel cultural facility offers various multi-use spaces and theaters hosting touring Broadway productions, comics, dance and local theater.
orlando weekly | city guide | listings | 83
Garden Theatre 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, 407-8774736, gardentheatre.org The lovingly restored historic theater in quaint downtown Winter Garden hosts theater, film and family shows.
Improv Orlando 9101 International Drive, 407-480-5233, theimprovorlando.com Touring and local stand-ups, magicians and sketch comedy troupes perform while patrons enjoy dinner and drinks.
Mad Cow Theatre 54 W. Church St., 407-297-8788, madcowtheatre.com The established and well-regarded professional Mad Cow Theatre features regular stage productions as well as classes, workshops and socials.
Orlando Ballet 445 S. Magnolia Ave., 844-513-2014, orlandoballet.org Orlando’s professional ballet company has settled gracefully into its new home at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra 425 N. Bumby Ave., 407-770-0071, orlandophil.org Wider fare than just classical music keeps the only professional orchestra in action: pops, film scores, opera and distinguished guest artists.
Orlando Repertory Theatre 1001 E. Princeton St., 407-896-7365, orlandorep.com Professional family theater productions have become the domain of Orlando Rep, which also presents shows from its Youth Academy.
Orlando Shakespeare Theater Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St., 407-447-1700, orlandoshakes.org One of the top Shakespeare companies in the country, OST produces a regular season in addition to PlayFest, which showcases new works.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 85
84 | listings | city guide | orlando weekly
Arts & Culture CONTINUED FROM PAGE 83
SAK Comedy Lab 29 S. Orange Ave., 407-648-0001, sak.com Good, clean fun is the hallmark of this troupe that specializes in improvisational comedy shows.
Theater on the Edge 5542 Hansel Ave., theaterontheedge.org Repertory theater company makes edgy choices of material.
Emotions Dance Company emotionsdance.org A contemporary dance company that seeks to engage social and environmental issues.
Jeremy Seghers facebook.com/whiterabbitorlando The local producer-director uses immersive staging techniques to create some of the most acclaimed theatrical performances of the past few years.
Opera Del Sol The Venue 511 Virginia Drive, 407-412-6895, thevenueorlando.com This space is the home of Blue Star and her VarieTease troupe, but also hosts plays, concerts, and cabarets.
The Winter Park Playhouse 711 N. Orange Ave., Winter Park, 407-645-0145, winterparkplayhouse.org Cabarets, musicals and holiday fare – this little community theater offers a busy theatrical calendar all year round.
THEATER GROUPS AND DANCE COMPANIES
operadelsol.org A new group producing irreverent mashups of operatic arias with pop culture, burlesque and current events.
Opera Orlando operaorlando.org This rigorous but always fun company stages chamber operas and recitals in collaboration with Orlando Philharmonic and other Florida opera groups.
Phantasmagoria phantasmagoriaorlando.com A Victorian steampunk circus troupe offering “macabre and delicious treats and tricks.”
Playwrights’ Round Table
Some vital performing arts groups around town that don’t have a fixed address.
theprt.com The mission of the group is to find and nurture new playwrights and give a home to new stage works.
Beth Marshall Presents
Voci Dance
bethmarshallpresents.wordpress. com The longtime Fringe Festival producer has formed her own company, producing an ambitious slate of plays and events.
facebook.com/vocidance The modern dance company presents theatrical experiences incorporating elaborate set and costume design.
Center for Contemporary Dance thecenterfordance.org Home to resident modern dance companies Coby Project, Dawn Branch Works, Mary Love Dance Projects, Moore Dance Project and U-Turn Dance Co.
Central Florida Community Arts cfcarts.com This very inclusive musical arts organization believes every artist of every age should have a cultural platform to connect and perform.
Gallery Eola Art by Brandon Geurts
orlando weekly | city guide | listings | 85
86 | listings | city guide | orlando weekly
Sports & Rec What’s been called the crown jewel of Orange County’s parks department, Barnett Park is easy to miss since it’s situated just out of sight of Colonial Drive. The park is worth the extra effort, though, with its BMX track, fitness center, dog park, softball fields and more.
Orlando Wetlands Park 25155 Wheeler Road, Christmas, 407-5681706, cityoforlando.net/wetlands This is what Florida looked like before humanity had its way, and that’s precisely why the more than 20 miles of roads and trails that Orlando Wetlands Park offers amazing wildlife sightings – in particular bird-watching, alligators and even bears, among a number of other native creatures.
Bill Frederick Park
S
ports in Central Florida reign supreme, whether you’re a weekend warrior who likes to slather on the sunscreen and get some exercise or the type who’d rather crack open a few beers while you watch someone else sweat it out.
3401 S. Hiawassee Road, 407-246-4486, cityoforlando.net/parks It’s the largest park in Metrowest, covering 183 acres around Turkey Lake, one of Floridians’ favorite fishing spots in the state. The park offers canoeing, kayaking, nature trails and volleyball courts, and is one of the only city parks where camping is permitted – with a permit, naturally. Dutch Holstein, wearing orange crown, poses in front of scoreboard, Orlando, FL, 1951 (Florida State Archives)
Cady Way Trail Trinity Preparatory School, 5700 Trinity Prep Lane, Winter Park, cfanarchy.com
UCF Knights
TEAMS Orlando Magic NBA Season: October through April Amway Center, 400 W. Church St., 800-7453000, orlandomagic.com
Orlando City/Pride Soccer Club MLS Season: March through October Orlando City Stadium, 655 W. Church St., 407480-4702, orlandocitysc.com
NCAA Football Season: August through December Bright House Networks Stadium, University of Central Florida, 407-823-1000, ucfathletics.com
PARKS Lake Eola Park
East Coast Hockey League Season: October through April Amway Center, 400 W. Church St., orlandosolarbearshockey.com
512 E. Washington St., cityoforlando.net/parks If Orlando’s a universe of its own, then Lake Eola Park is the sun. With farmers markets, entertainment, activism, athletics, leisure interests and much more occurring on a regular basis around the park’s 1.1-mile path around the lake, it’s the epicenter of the City Beautiful.
Orlando Psycho City Derby Girls
Langford Park
Roller Derby League Season: February through November Semoran Skateway, 2670 Cassel Creek Blvd., Casselberry, orlandoderbygirls.com
1808 E. Central Blvd., cityoforlando.net/parks Just a quick jaunt outside of downtown, along with Dickson Azalea Park, Langford Park offers the chance to lounge in the shade after going for a stroll along its array of walkways.
Orlando Solar Bears
Orlando Anarchy Women’s Football Alliance Season: April through July
BIKING AND HIKING
Barnett Park 4801 W. Colonial Drive, orangecountyfl.net
orlando weekly | city guide | listings | 87
Entrance is 1/4 mile north of State Road 50 on Herndon Avenue This is 6.5 miles of paved road, and it’s perfect for bicyclists and stroller-pushers alike. Connecting Orlando and Winter Park and the Cross Seminole Trail in Seminole County, the trail features an assortment of water fountains, rest stops and mile markers, and that’s not even counting the 685-foot long suspension bridge that crosses Semoran Boulevard.
Econ Trail Dean Road just north of State Road 50 Running from East Orlando to Alafaya Trail, Econ Trail runs parallel with the Little Econlockhatchee River – a living work of art that offers both pretty views and spots where the fish actually bite.
Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park 8300 W. State Road 46, Sanford, 407-8842009, floridastateparks.org/lowerwekivariver Come prepared, because this section of the parks lacks amenities. However, there are 18 miles of multi-use trails you can hike or bike.
Rock Springs Run State Reserve 30601 County Road 433, Sorrento, 407-8842009, floridastateparks.org/rockspringsrun At its best, this is pretty much a big patch of underdeveloped land, featuring 17 miles of CONTINUED ON PAGE 89
88 | listings | city guide | orlando weekly
Sports & Rec CONTINUED FROM PAGE 87
multi-use trails. Find it about 10 miles west of I-4 on County Road 433.
Wekiwa Springs State Park 1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka, 407-884-2009, floridastateparks.org/wekiwasprings Pick your poison – canoeing or kayaking (rental available) – or set out along the 13 miles of immaculate heavily wooded hiking, biking or horseback-riding trails. But make sure you get there early, because this spot is a popular one among locals.
West Orange Trail 501 Crown Point Cross Road, Winter Garden This 22-mile trail snakes through Winter Garden, Apopka and Orlando, and it’s open to both walkers and bikers – and some sections are even open to horses. Feel free to park along one of the four trailheads located at various points along the trail.
PADDLE SPORTS Blue Spring State Park 2100 W. French Ave., Orange City, floridastateparks.org/bluespring This park covers more than 2,600 acres, and on top of that, it’s a manatee refuge. Consider it an A-plus place to swim, go paddleboarding or simply picnic. But during manatee season, mid-November through March, expect the waterways to be closed.
Bioluminescent Bay Mosquito Lagoon, near Titusville Florida’s Indian River Lagoon and Mosquito Lagoon spring to life from early June to early October. The luminescence is caused by dinoflagellates (tiny things you can’t see) in the bay, which glow neon-blue whenever the water is disturbed. Though they’re not necessary, guides are recommended for this trip – and paddlers should begin their trip around dusk.
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
Rock Springs Run – Wekiva River
IOA Corporate 5K
Apopka-DeBary, dep.state.fl.us/gwt/guide/paddle.htm If the entire 27-mile trip down Rock Springs Run is your sort of thing, plop yourself in at King’s Landing near Apopka. On your way, stop at Wekiwa Springs State Park for a swim in the clear blue waters.
TBD 2019 Lake Eola, Central Boulevard and Lake Eola Drive, corporate5k.com Insurance Office of America sponsors this huge event, where businesses and nonprofits form teams and compete with more than 18,000 runners and walkers from 700 organizations.
FUN RUNS AND UN-FUN RUNS The Color Run April 14, 2018 Osceola Heritage Park, 1875 Silver Spur Lane, Kissimmee, thecolorrun.com Run or dance or walk or whatever your way through this 5K – an added bonus: you get doused in colored powders and paints at various stations on the course.
Brick Dash 5K April 14, 2018 One Legoland Way, Winter Haven, legoland.com/florida Sponsored by Publix, this family-friendly event benefits Merlin’s Magic Wand, Legoland Florida Resort’s global children’s charity. Run or walk, it doesn’t matter; this is for a good cause.
Star Wars Half Marathon – The Dark Side April 19-22, 2018 Walt Disney Resort, rundisney.com A Star Wars-themed weekend of running your ass off, with a 5K, 10K and half-marathon, and the universe’s well-being depends on it.
Tough Mudder Oct. 13-14, 2018 Clear Springs Ranch, 5020 Cox Road, Bartow, toughmudder.com A grueling, dirty obstacle race along a 10- to 12-mile-long course.
DOG PARKS Lake Baldwin Park Dog Park 2000 S. Lakemont Ave., Winter Park, cityofwinterpark.org/lake-baldwin-park With its just over 23 acres of beautiful, shady parkland and its sandy beach for your pup to roll around and get filthy on, Lake Baldwin Park defines what it is to be “dog-friendly.” Well-supervised dogs are even allowed to be off their leashes from 8 a.m. until sundown.
West Orange Dog Park 12400 Marshall Farms Road, Winter Garden, orangecountyfl.net/cultureparks/dogparks Split into two sides, one for larger dogs and one for smaller dogs, the West Orange Dog Park offers a number of the same amenities as other county parks, including plenty of room for our furry friends to run around as well as a time-out zone and a “doggie relief” station.
Dr. Phillips Dog Park 8249 Buenavista Blvd., orangecountyfl.net/cultureparks/dogparks First of all, it’s an off-leash park, so let that be clear for those who second-guess their pet’s manners from time to time. Open and tidy, with just a touch of shade to lounge in while your dog’s running around, it’s a favorite among locals.
Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend
Near Titusville, fws.gov/merrittisland This refuge doesn’t permit paddling inside the impoundments. However, what is available is the spectacular shows Mother Nature has to offer, from sightings of manatees to alligators to friendly scrub jays and more.
Nov. 1-4, 2018 Walt Disney World Resort, rundisney.com A series of races for runners of all ages, including a 10K through Epcot and the Wine and Dine half-marathon. The race concludes with a finish line party at Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival.
Econlockhatchee River
Savage Race
Chuluota, dep.state.fl.us Whether the Econ is easygoing or more troublesome than relaxing depends on the river’s water levels (high in the summer, low in the spring.) But for paddlers, the glimpse of even just a touch of the diverse array of wildlife along this 19-mile stretch is worth the effort.
Nov. 10-11, 2018 17951 Hamilton Road, Dade City, savagerace.com The thesis of this 6.5-mile race is in its name, as participants are required to take on 27 wildly difficult obstacles with names like the Colon Blow and the Nutt Smasher.
orlando weekly | city guide | listings | 89
Ha’ani Hogan, wearing handmade flower crown, cheers on UCF in the 2018 Peach Bowl
90 | listings | city guide | orlando weekly
Attractions
A
s the world’s tourist destination, Orlando has a little bit of everything – from an unforgettably magical experience at Cinderella’s Castle inside Disney World’s Magic Kingdom to gator wrangling and zip-lining over hundreds of toothy reptiles at Gatorland. No two things are alike, so we suggest you try them all.
Airboat Rides at Midway 28501 E. Colonial Drive, Christmas, 407-5686790, airboatridesatmidway.com See bald eagles, otters, blue herons and a lot of gators at this popular airboat tour on the St. Johns River.
Audubon Center for Birds of Prey 1101 Audubon Way, Maitland, 407-644-0190, fl.audubon.org Watch Florida’s raptors get some TLC at this rehab center near Lake Sybelia. Open to the public, the center’s gazebo houses birds currently in rehabilitation and man-made wetlands.
Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales, 863-676-1408, boktowergardens.org On the outskirts of Orlando’s suburbs, Bok Tower Gardens hosts botanical gardens designed by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. Take in the natural wonders of Florida as you listen to the song coming from the iconic neo-Gothic Singing Tower and its carillon bells.
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens 3755 W. Seminole Blvd., Sanford, 407-3234450, centralfloridazoo.org Home to more than 400 animals, the Central Florida Zoo is a relaxing sanctuary for threatened animals like the Madagascar red-ruffed lemur or the Thai clouded leopard. Feed the giraffes some lettuce or pet a greater one-horned rhino.
Bok Tower (vintage postcard postmarked Jan. 17, 1963, via Florida State Archives)
Forever Florida
The Holy Land Experience
4755 N. Kenansville Road, St. Cloud, 407-9579794, foreverflorida.com This 4,700-acre nature preserve features the best of Florida. Enjoy horsebacking, zip-lining and a trail buggy tour featuring a traditional ranch and other wildlife.
4655 Vineland Road, 407-872-2272, holylandexperience.com Get your money’s worth, Orange County residents, and visit this taxpayer-subsidized recreation of ancient Jerusalem. You could pay for admission or wait until that one day a year when they have to let you in for free.
Fort Christmas Historical Park and Museum 1300 Fort Christmas Road, Christmas, 407254-9310, orangecountyfl.net Find replica Florida Cracker-style cabins and a pioneer schoolhouse at this regional history museum that evokes an 1837 fort during the second Seminole War.
I-Drive 360 8375 International Drive, i-drive360.com Right in the middle of Orlando’s tourist district, I-Drive 360 features the multi-colored Coca-Cola Orlando Eye observation wheel, marine animals at the Sea Life Aquarium and your favorite celebrities at Madame Tussauds wax museum.
Gatorland Dinosaur World 5145 Harvey Tew Road, Plant City, 813-7179865, dinosaurworld.com Life-size dinosaur models reign over this attraction seen from Interstate 4. Dig for fossils, mine through artifacts and excavate a 27-foot skeleton under the sand.
14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail, 407-855-5496, gatorland.com Known as the “Alligator Capital of the World,” this eco-preserve is home to thousands of flesh-eating reptiles and the trainers brave enough to wrestle them. Get close (but not too close) to see them eat and sleep, or zipline safely above their marsh.
Jungle Adventures Nature Park 26205 E. Colonial Drive, Christmas, 407-5682885, jungleadventures.com A natural habitat filled with rare Florida panthers, black bears, wolves, tropical birds and a whole lot of gators. The mouth of a 200-foot man-made gator serves as the entrance to this “real Florida animal park.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 93
orlando weekly | city guide | listings | 91
92 | listings | city guide | orlando weekly
Attractions SeaWorld Orlando 7007 Sea World Drive, 407-545-5550, seaworld.com/orlando Outdated marine animal shows are not the only things SeaWorld has to offer. Thrilling roller coasters and exciting water adventures at Aquatica make this theme park a mustvisit.
Universal Orlando universalorlando.com Thank the stars for multi-day passes, because Universal offers way too much to enjoy in one day. From the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to the newly opened Volcano Bay water theme park, there’s never a dull moment here.
Wallaby Ranch Rocket men: Father and sons at the Canaveral National Seashore look toward the NASA launch site at the Kennedy Space Center (circa 1996, Florida State Archives)
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 91
Legoland 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven, legoland.com/florida What’s not to love about 150-acre attraction whose theme is tiny blocks and miniature humans? Customize fun your way here.
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Orlando Science Center 777 E. Princeton St., 407-514-2000, osc.org Home to Florida’s largest refractor telescope, the Orlando Science Center has a place for everyone. Children get to explore the recently remodeled KidsTown, which includes a climbing area and pickable “orange grove,” while adults get to connect at Science Night Live with fun exhibits and a little liquor.
1805 Deen Still Road, Davenport, 863-4240070, wallaby.com Lose your terrestrial inhibitions by hanging out with the gliders at Wallaby Ranch. The ranch’s aerotow system launches people (and their instructors) into the air for an unforgettable experience.
Walt Disney World Resort disneyworld.disney.go.com The most magical place on Earth doesn’t really need an explanation, so we’ll just give you the new stuff: The Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge theme park will make its debut in 2019 at Disney, and it’s not something you want to miss.
State Road 405, east of Titusville, 855-4334210, kennedyspacecenter.com Take a tour of the 363-foot Saturn V that took Americans to the moon and catch the lunar particles that still dust astronaut Alan Shepard’s space suit. Make it worth your while and visit when there’s a live rocket launch scheduled.
Mead Botanical Garden 1300 S. Denning Drive, Winter Park, 407-6226323, meadgarden.org A garden oasis with bike paths and a picnic area ripe with natural fauna and wildlife. Take a hike near forested wetlands, and if you’re quiet enough, hear the hawks and wading birds.
Orlando Speed World 19164 E. Colonial Drive, 407-568-5522, raceosw.com/dragway Local drag racing finds a home at Orlando Speed World. Check out street drags and drifting events here every week.
A futuristic vision has always been in place at Disney World, as seen in this 1967 ad showing the monorail speeding through the Contemporary Resort.
orlando weekly | city guide | listings | 93
94 | listings | city guide | orlando weekly
SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION
A broken air conditioner is met with a shrug and a mental note to head to the hardware store in many parts of the country, but in Central Florida it creates a hot mess. While many have the resources to promptly fix this Sunshine State nightmare, some of Florida’s low-income residents aren’t so lucky. Living in lowincome housing means that appliances may not work as well, apartments may not be insulated as thoroughly against the heat and humidity, and landlords may not be as attentive to resident’s needs. Children and the elderly suffer and can wind up in hospitals when landlords fail to meet their needs — and that’s where Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida new medical-legal partnerships comes in to help. CLSMF is a non-profit law firm providing free civil legal aid to low-income residents in 12 Central Florida counties, including Orange County. Originally founded in 1966, the firm strives to remove the barriers to justice
that these vulnerable communities face, including obtaining food, shelter, education and health care. While criminal court cases guarantee defendants the right to an attorney, no such guarantee exists for civil cases. CLSMF helps people with everything from domestic violence issues to special education needs to challenges faced by minorities and people with disabilities, and their new medical-legal partnerships (MLP), funded by The Florida Bar Foundation, expand that reach by integrating lawyers into the medical field. CEO Kimberly Sanchez is spearheading the initiative with the National Center for Medical-Legal Partnership (MLP) to implement it statewide. The partnership helps physicians and lawyers work together to address healthcare-related civil legal needs. Every low-income person has 2-3 unmet civil needs creating barriers to healthy eating, safe housing, employment and personal safety, and addressing those needs improves quality of life and reduces the strain on medical care services. For example, someone who is denied food stamps may have to make trade-offs between affording food and necessary medication. CLSMF’s new partnership initiative can help those resi-
dents appeal food-stamp denials, which means they can afford their medicine as well as healthy food that helps manage chronic disease. Better illness management means less doctor and emergency room visits, allowing medical professionals more time and resources to better treat their patients. In addition to the new MLP, CLSMF helps low-income individuals on a multitude of levels that most people wouldn’t think of unless it happens to them. Their non-profit status means that they frequently rely on charitable donations from lawyers, workplace giving, and recurring donations from altruistic individuals seeking to make a difference. “For anybody who cares about any social issue, we cover that,” says a representative of the firm. “We can help people facing issues ranging from domestic violence, consumer fraud, fair housing, and make sure that kids with disabilities, the elderly and veterans are treated fairly.” The firm also covers a more extensive area than similar civil legal aid firms, so they touch more people in need within the state of Florida.
orlando weekly | city guide | listings | 95
A recent partnership with Legal Services of Greater Miami is a great example of CLSMF’s extensive reach. The Community Economic Development Project (CEDP), also funded by The Florida Bar Foundation, covers counties from south Florida all the way north to Citrus County, and it enters economically-challenged areas at a grassroots level to help small business owners and other community members build a solid foundation that helps their community thrive. From healthcare to housing to family law, Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida is dedicated to assisting Floridians who need it the most. Their extensive legal and geographic reach makes them a great organization to support and donate to if someone wants to make a difference. “Anything somebody might really feel passionate about, we address those issues,” stresses the representative of the firm. Visit CLSMF’s website at clsmf.org to see how you can help keep Central Florida’s citizens healthy, safe and, of course, cool in the state’s heat.
96 | listings | city guide | orlando weekly
Annual Orlando Events Bite Night
APRIL Florida Film Festival
April 6-14, 2018; Enzian Theater, 1300 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland; 407-629-1088; floridafilmfestival.com
Whether you’re a fan of dramas, comedies, documentaries or shorts, the Florida Film Festival has it all. Florida Music Festival
April 12-14, 2018; downtown Orlando, multiple venues; floridamusicfestival.com
June 25, 2018; Orchid Garden, 126 W. Church St.; bitenightorlando.com
Bite Night transforms the historic Orchid Garden Ballroom into a foodie wonderland featuring samples from more than 20 of Orlando’s best-loved chefs and restaurants.
JULY Fireworks at the Fountain
July 4, 2018; Lake Eola Park, North Eola Drive and East Robinson Street; cityoforlando.net
A downtown music festival geared toward artists looking to break into the major-label industry.
Nothing says patriotism like the “oohs” and “ahhs” elicited by the choreographed firework and light show at Lake Eola each year.
Whiskey Business
Tacos & Tequila
April 27, 2018; Cheyenne Saloon, 128 W. Church St.; whiskeybusinessorlando.com
At this upscale and sophisticated event, guests can sample their way across continents to discover the best scotches, bourbons and whiskeys.
July 14, 2018; Cheyenne Saloon, 128 W. Church St.; tacosandtequilaorlando.com
Peak-taco deniers get to try dozens of takes on everyone’s favorite Tex-Mex one-handed treat – along with plenty of tequila and cerveza.
MAY
AUGUST
Orlando Fringe
Best of Orlando
May 15-28, 2018; Loch Haven Park, 777 E. Princeton St.; orlandofringe.org
Thespians from all over the world descend on the theater complex at Loch Haven for two weeks of performances. Beer ’Merica
May 19, 2018; Gaston Edwards Park, 1236 N. Orange Ave.; orlandoweeklytickets.com
Celebrating American Craft Beer Week, this daylong beer festival on the shore of Lake Ivanhoe spotlights more than 100 varieties of American craft brews, along with live music, games and giveaways. MegaCon
May 24-27, 2018; Orange County Convention Center, 9800 International Drive; megaconorlando.com
Central Florida’s largest comic and media convention brings in big names from the worlds of television, film, comics and more for a huge celebration of pop culture.
JUNE Gay Days/One Magical Weekend
May 29-June 4, 2018; multiple locations; gaydays.com; onemagicalweekend.com
Organized trips to Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando resorts during the day, themed parties every night. Bite30
June 1-30, 2018; multiple locations; bite30.com
A monthlong celebration of the best food Central Florida has to offer, with special prix fixe menus at each participating restaurant.
Aug. 22, 2018; The Beacham, 46 N. Orange Ave.; orlandoweekly.com
Annual party in honor of Orlando Weekly’s Best of Orlando winners. If you snag a ticket to this exclusive party, congratulations: We like you.
SEPTEMBER United We Brunch
Sept. 8, 2018; Orchid Garden, 126 W. Church St.; unitedwebrunch.com
Orlando’s top brunch destinations unite for one big day party featuring unlimited brunch tastings and an open bar. Halloween Horror Nights
Sept. 14-Nov. 3, 2018; Universal Studios, 6000 Universal Blvd.; halloweenhorrornights.com
This year’s Halloween Horror Nights features a Stranger Things house, and that’s probably all you need to know.
eat and drink with Orlando Weekly and check out surprise performances at our big gay brunch. Orlando Film Festival
Oct. 18-25, 2018; Cobb Plaza Cinema Café, 155 S. Orange Ave.; orlandofilmfest.com
The Orlando Film Festival has grown by leaps and bounds in recent years, and now brings hundreds of independent films and filmmakers downtown for a week of screenings, panels and parties. Creative City Project: Immerse Oct. 19-20, 2018; Downtown Orlando; creativecityproject.com
Immerse offers up a whole weekend of live performing arts scattered throughout public spaces in the heart of downtown Orlando. Spooky Empire
Oct. 26-28, 2018; Caribe Royale Orlando, 8101 World Center Drive; spookyempire.com
This convention for horror fans descends on I-Drive, bringing actors, musicians, makeup specialists, tattoo artists and more for a ghoulishly fun weekend. Central Florida Veg Fest
October, 2018; Festival Park, 2911 E. Robinson St.; cfvegfest.org
Chow down on some crueltyfree cooking at this event for vegetarians, vegans and openminded omnivores. Learn about veg living and get an up-close look at some of the animals spared when you opt for a salad instead of a Baconator.
NOVEMBER Orlando Beer Festival
Nov. 10, 2018; Festival Park, 2911 E. Robinson St.; orlandobeerfestival.com
Orlando’s only large-scale legitimate craft beer festival that attracts brewers and guests from all over Florida.
Grandma Party Bazaar
December 2018 (date TBA); Stardust Video & Coffee, 1842 E. Winter Park Road; stardustie.com
Handmade crafts from local artisans and live music from local bands make this our favorite stop for holiday shopping.
JANUARY Zora! Festival
January 2019 (dates TBA), downtown Eatonville, Kennedy Boulevard, Eatonville, zorafestival.org
Eatonville’s most famous writer gets a festival in her honor every year featuring live music, arts and educational activities. Buffalo Wild Wings Citrus Bowl Jan. 1, 2019; Camping World Stadium, 1 Citrus Bowl Place; buffalowildwingscitrusbowl.com
The Citrus Bowl plays host to one of the BCS games every New Year’s Day.
FEBRUARY Lunar New Year Dragon Parade
February 2019 (date TBA), Fashion Square Mall, 3201 E. Colonial Drive, centralfloridadragonparade.org
Formerly taking place in Mills 50, this Lunar New Year celebration got so big that it had to move to the Fashion Square Mall in 2015. Orlando Chili Cook-Off
February 2019 (date TBA); Festival Park, 2911 E. Robinson St.; orlandochilicookoff.com
This event brings the heat with more than 100 different types of chili to sample, the World Chili Eating Championship competition, live music and more.
MARCH Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival
Florida Blue Florida Classic
March 2019 (dates TBA); Central Park, Winter Park; wpsaf.org
The Great Orlando Cocktail Party
Annual football game between Bethune-Cookman University and Florida A&M.
Browse through booths from tons of artists and vendors at one of the country’s oldest, largest and most prestigious juried art festivals.
A celebration of Orlando’s craft cocktail scene, with samples from the city’s best bars and speakeasies along with live entertainment.
DECEMBER
Sept. 29, 2018; Location TBA; orlandoweekly.com
OCTOBER Come Out With Pride
Oct. 13, 2018; Lake Eola Park, 512 E. Washington St.; comeoutwithpride.com
Our favorite downtown parade party celebrates the LGBTQ community. Big Gay Brunch
Oct. 13, 2018; The Abbey, 100 S. Eola Drive; orlandoweekly.com
Nov. 18, 2018; Camping World Stadium, 1 Citrus Bowl Place; floridaclassic.org
Sweet and Savory
Art31
March 2019, multiple locations, art31.org
Dec. 1, 2018; Location TBA; orlandoweekly.com
The Art & History Museums – Maitland sponsors this monthlong celebration featuring internationally acclaimed artists every year.
Christmas in the Park
Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival
A night of desserts, drinks and delicious dishes, served up by top local and regional artisans. December 2018 (date TBA); Central Park, North Park Avenue and West Morse Boulevard, Winter Park; morsemuseum.org
The Morse Museum decorates Central Park with stained glass windows and the Bach Festival Choir performs a Christmas concert.
Before the big gay parade, come
orlando weekly | city guide | event calendar | 97
March 2019 (dates TBA); Sunshine Grove, Okeechobee; okeechobeefest.com
The annual Okeechobee Fest is the area’s biggest international music festival, drawing thousands to the swamp for four days of fun.
98 | event calender | city guide | orlando weekly