From theme and water parks galore to zoos and aquariums, Orlando seems pre-packaged for one-size-fits-all experiences. But take a closer look, and you may find that there’s a lot of character here, and we aren’t talking about the costumed ones with big ears. Spots like Audubon Park answer the question of what to do in Orlando that’s against the grain.
Nothing better than exploring a new place through your stomach
2806 Corrine Drive
Orlando, FL 32803
(407) 745-4743
Sweet or savory, this bakery has the pie that will please your palate. You can’t go wrong with the classics like key lime—you’re in Florida after all. But we say taste the pie that goes places most pies don’t and order the Bison Taco. Want to walk and eat? Grab a hand pie to go.
3201 Corrine Drive
Orlando, FL 32803
info@gideonsbakehouse.com
Why do the lines wrap around the block? The cookies, that’s why. Their classic chocolate chip is what put Gideon’s on the map and won them countless awards. Just remember to tell your mom she still bakes the best, even if it isn’t true.
3201 Corrine Drive, Ste 100
Orlando, FL 32803
(407) 960-1228
Ramen is definitely having its moment, and Domu does it right. Grab a few friends and even more small plates and kick back with a seasonal cocktail. Save room for the real deal here. Order up a steamy bowl of spicy tonkotsu and dive into these absurdly slurp-able homemade noodles.
1809 Winter Park Road
Orlando, FL 32803
info@kadenceorlando.com
Kadence is small, expensive and by reservations only, but if you want an authentic omakase experience without traveling to Japan, this is it. Inside this nondescript black box building is a small world of chef-chosen intricately playful sushi dishes.
3022 Corrine Drive
Orlando, FL 32803
(407) 427-1440
What do you do if there isn’t a place for you? You make your own, and that is what owners Jen and Darrell Cunningham did. There is something fresh and healthy here for everyone, including the house-made vegan and gluten-free black bean soup. Check out their weekly beer tastings, which also include gluten-free options.
Come one, come all, come thirsty
2810 Corrine Drive
Orlando, FL 32803
(407) 893-9832
Don’t be scared by the vast selection at this craft beer bar. Not sure what you’re looking for? Just tell the knowledgeable staff your likes and they’ll point you toward and pour you the proper pint.
3201 Corrine Drive, Ste 105
Orlando, FL 32803
(407) 790-7758
Nested inside the East End Market is this tropical colored, easy, breezy seafood bar. Pull up a stool and order ceviche prepared from fresh, locally caught fish and cool off with a white wine or a local beer. Ahhh, the good life!
1842 E Winter Park Road
Orlando, FL 32803
(407) 623-3393
Bookstore? Coffee shop? Bar? Whatever. They don’t care what you call it, and neither should you when you come to this cool as hell little spot. Order up a drink (pick your poison), cruise through some kitschy books, and soak up the come-as-you-like atmosphere.
Grab some vintage gear, pick out a souvenir, or just check out the local vibe
3106 Corrine Drive
Orlando, FL 32803
(321) 300-6957
This vintage boutique features carefully hand-picked pieces by self-described Gypsies of the Rising Sun. Whichever decade floats your boat, they’ll have something from it, as well as original pieces from local artists.
2916 Corrine Drive
Orlando, FL 32803
(407) 4447-7275
Yeah, owning physical copies of your favorite music is still thing. We think there’s nothing better than flipping throughs rows of discs and vinyl and discovering that long-lost album or one that’s destined to be a desert island pick. Check their local calendar to see new record releases and live performances.
1842 E Winter Park Road
Orlando, FL 32803
Rain or shine, from 5-9 p.m. on Mondays you can get a little taste of all the Audubon Park activities there are to do. The pet and family-friendly gathering features live music, art, and plenty of food.
With eclectic and funky boutiques, craft beer bars, and indie bookstores, Audubon Park is an oasis away from Orlando’s themed experiences. Next time you’re in Orlando, make sure to look past the parks to get an experience that’s not prefabbed.
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