It’s not everyday you get to celebrate a significant relationship milestone. Anniversaries, proposals, engagements, and meaningful holidays definitely call for a certain type of celebration. Yet planning can sometimes feel overwhelming and daunting. In fact, one of the most frequent questions we receive from the guys is, “Where is the best place to take my partner for a special night out?” (Kudos for planning ahead, fellas.)
To help you plan your perfect evening, we’ve rounded up our favorite over the top (but totally worth it) experiences in Orlando, ideal for celebrating your upcoming special occasion.
Champagne Experience on The Wheel at ICON Park
If you haven’t taken in the gorgeous views from atop The Wheel at ICON Park, what are you waiting for? In addition to daily “flights” on this larger than life Ferris Wheel, which has become a fixture of the I-4 landscape, you can also upgrade your experience. Sip a glass of bubbly during your flight for $35 (online in advance) or go all out by booking your own private champagne capsule or romance capsule starting at $185. Bonus points if you ride during the evening and catch theme park fireworks.
Relax in luxury at the Ritz Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes
The gift of relaxation is one of the best gifts you can give, especially when you’re able to enjoy the experience side by side. Head to the Ritz Carlton Orlando for a spa daycation and treat yourselves to a couples massage or the signature hammock massage. Follow up your treatment with cocktails or a bottle of champagne and a healthy light lunch from Vitale, Spa Café, or stick around for a romantic fine dining feast at Norman’s.
If you really want to go all out for a special occasion, consider booking one of the newly-launched seaplane excursions. You and your partner can enjoy a “flightseeing” tour of Orlando attractions, or opt to arrive in style at a local restaurant during a fly-in lunch or dinner at Central Florida restaurants. Seaplane excursions are offered daily Wednesday-Saturday, and range from $125-$350 per person depending on the experience.
Private hot air balloon ride
Hot air balloon rides are definitely a bit of a splurge at $175/person, but the sweeping views of Central Florida’s natural beauty at sunrise justify the cost. While you can share the basket with a few other passengers, booking your own private flight is also an option. Bob’s Balloons offers private charters for two beginning at $475. You’ll glide over treetops and lakes, with a Florida sunrise as the backdrop.
Rent out a restaurant for the evening
Finding a local restaurant offering private dining for two can be difficult, but The Tennessee Truffle has you covered. Instead of booking a table for two, rent out the whole restaurant for the evening. Your chef will prepare an 8-10 course dinner (personalized to your tastes) to be served at your dreamy table for two. That luxury comes with a $400 price tag per couple, but offers up the perfect setting for a milestone anniversary, intimate Valentine’s Day dinner, or proposal.
Nighttime Helicopter Tour
See Orlando in a completely new light while sharing a memorable adventure on a nighttime helicopter tour. Based out of the Kissimmee Gateway Airport, MaxFlight Helicopters has several nighttime options. Choose from a 15-minute flight around the theme parks and Orlando Eye, a 30-minute “city lights” tour of downtown Orlando, or an Epcot fireworks tour.
Exotic Animal Experience
If your significant other is an animal lover, don’t miss the up close and adorable encounters offered at the Exotic Animal Experience. Play with a baby monkey, give a kangaroo a belly rub, have a photo-op with a baby zebra, snuggle a sloth, and more. Several experiences are available, including a private encounter for $225, which includes playtime with all of the animals.
St. Johns Rivership Dinner Dance Cruise
Picture this: you and your date enjoying a romantic dinner and bottle of champagne, listening to live music, and dancing the night away while you cruise on the St. Johns River. This nighttime cruise is offered every Saturday on the St. Johns Rivership. Stroll hand in hand as you board the Barbara-Lee. At a little over $60 a person (drinks are extra), this is a more affordable option for a one of a kind evening celebration.
Weekend glamping in a Luxe Teepee
If primitive camping isn’t your thing, consider glamping instead. Glamorous camping is the best way to experience the great outdoors in luxurious accommodations. Luxe Teepees, the newest addition to the Westgate River Ranch glamping lineup, will spoil camping for you forever. In addition to stylish accommodations (complete with a king sized bed) you’ll also enjoy complimentary resort activities, your own “luxe concierge,” a nightly campfire and more. Rates begin at $575/night. Tents are also available, beginning at $265/night (activities are extra) to make your Florida glamping experience complete.
Disney Springs dinner and a show
Theme parks usually don’t top our list of date night destinations. However, the evolution of Disney Springs has brought with it an impressive selection of date night-worthy dining options and experiences. Paddlefish, Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’, and STK have all elevated the tourist-trodden area into an inviting oasis for foodie couples. After a satisfying meal, continue your evening at Cirque du Soleil La Nouba. The show features a mesmerizing lineup of acrobatic performances and entertainment that make it worth the $59/ticket price tag. Just make sure to catch the show before the final Disney Springs performance at the end of 2017.
Forever Florida Overnight Horseback Adventure
Perfect for the outdoorsy, horse-loving couple, Forever Florida’s overnight horseback adventure can’t be beat. The tour lasts for a day and a half and includes a three-hour trail ride, camping at a remote campsite, and a savory steak dinner. Cuddle up by the campfire, snuggle in your tent (don’t forget to bring a sleeping bag!), and enjoy breakfast and a three-hour ride back in the morning.
More ideas for special occasions:
• Chef’s Table at Victoria & Albert’s
• Romantic Orlando Staycation
• Delicious Disney dining series
• Broadway show at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
About the Author
Stephanie Patterson is the managing editor of Orlando Date Night Guide. She’s a talented professional food and travel photographer and writer with a passion for creativity, the beach and great eats. When she’s not taking photos or writing, you can find her exploring the state for her Florida travel blog, Travel Taste Click. Find her online at www.spattersonphotography.com and www.traveltasteclick.com.