In a city as beautiful and diverse as Orlando, we sometimes assume that date night on a budget isn't possible. But the great thing about downtown Orlando is that there are so many things to do–regardless of your budget!
From wine to sketch comedy shows to bingo, here are 15 date options under $30 for couples who want to spend a night out downtown without breaking the bank.
Originally published September 2017, updated by Brie Gorecki in September 2023
Lake Eola Swan Boats
Lake Eola Park – 512 East Washington Street
This date option doubles as a fun workout! Take a stroll around Lake Eola and see all the sights before pedaling a swan boat across the lake.
$15 per half hour
SAK Comedy Lab
29 S. Orange Ave.
This venue is where the great Wayne Brady got his start, and the laughs haven’t slowed down since. With shows happening during the evenings on select weekdays and during the weekend, you can share some laughs with your date for as little as $8 each. Before the show, grab a slice of pizza at one of the nearby pizzerias. Wanna try your hand at improv? There are FREE classes offered a few times a year so you can preview what the improv classes are like and decide if you want to continue on.
Tickets range from $8 – $20
Orlando Farmers Market
Lake Eola Park – Corner of E. Central Blvd & N. Eola Drive
Lake Eola Park comes alive on Sundays as vendors sell their homemade crafts, food, and plants at one of the largest Central Florida farmers markets. There are so many food and drink options to choose from and lots of interesting and creative art to peruse. For the perfect budget-friendly date, walk around the farmers market and chow down on food from local vendors.
FREE admission; vendor prices vary
Thornton Park 2nd Thursday Wine and Art Walk
Various locations throughout the Thornton Park District
The Thornton 2nd Thursday Wine and Art Walk is a fun monthly event that allows you to explore the Thornton Park District while becoming familiar with local restaurants and bars in the area. For $15, you get a glass and a map with more than 25 businesses that will be offering tastings. There’s also live music and local artists showcasing their work. Save some money and buy tickets in advance for $10 online. The starting location will vary each month.
$15 day of; $10 in advance
1Up Orlando Arcade Bar
25 West Church Street
Opening May 2022
Pac-Man, Galaga, Space Invaders— you name it, they probably have it! This retro arcade bar is created by the same folks as Cocktails and Screams. Play retro game, enjoy some fun cocktails, and attend one of their totally awesome theme nights.
Prices vary
Bike the Orlando Urban Trail
Runs southwest of Lake Highland to Mead Garden in Winter Park
Orlando has multiple bike trails and paths that run throughout Orange County, including the Orlando Urban Trail that runs near the North Quarter District. Bring your bike (or rent one from HOPR Bike Share) and bike along scenic Lake Highland and all the way to Mead Garden.
FREE
Third Thursday Gallery Hop
Downtown Arts District
The art galleries of Downtown Orlando come alive on the third Thursday of every month from 6-9 p.m. A variety of art galleries open their doors to Orlandoans as the work of established and emerging artists are showcased. Browse the Makers Market and get inspired by Performing Arts in Heritage Square Park. While it's totally free to attend, you can purchase a $10 wristband which will grant you access to drink specials and more at participating venues.
FREE
MoviEola
Lake Eola Park
Throughout the year on select nights, catch a free movie in Lake Eola Park as part of the city's MoviEola outdoor movie series. The fun usually kicks off with activities, food, and music, followed by the movie screening later in the evening. Pack your own picnic for a totally free date night. Check the Lake Eola Park Facebook Page for the latest schedule.
FREE; food truck menu prices vary
CMX Plaza Cinema Cafe 12
155 S. Orange Ave.
This movie theater is located right on Orange Avenue in the heart of Downtown Orlando. It features 12 auditoriums with very comfy leather seats. All screens are digital, and they have an expanded concession menu that also includes beer and wine. Watch the newest movie releases in style with your significant other. Score super cheap tickets if you can sneak away on a weekday afternoon.
Tickets range from $5 – $10 and up
Orlando Solar Bears game
Amway Center
Cheer on the Solar Bears during hockey season! The games take place throughout the season on weekdays and weekends, so there are plenty of opportunities to catch a game. Typically, your ticket also grants you access to special deals at venues after the game. These specials are always announced during the game.
Tickets from $18.50
Hamburger Mary's Twisted Bingo
110 W. Church St.
One of the most talked about bingo nights in Orlando, you’re always guaranteed to have a great time at Hamburger Mary’s, especially on their Twisted Bingo nights. They’re held Tuesdays from 6:30-9:00pm, and hosted by Gidget Galore and Ginger Minj. Reservations are for 6:30pm with the entertainment starting at 7:00pm. This duo is sure to make you laugh. Expect singing and great tunes throughout the night. Note, each guest is required to purchase an entree or two alcoholic beverages.
$6.99 to play; reservations recommended
Brew Theory Orlando
400 Pittman St, Orlando
An outdoor porch overlooking the hustle and bustle of downtown Orlando is a great place to relax, and the indoor Brew Theory taproom is large and comfortable. The beers are fairly affordable, and being able to see some of the brewing and distribution facilities is unique. Then there is deliciously indulgent food from Grilled Cheesus. Sink your teeth into gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, including a vegan option, and sip on cold craft beer in a casual environment with darts, a golf putting hole, and surfboard décor.
Prices vary; small parking fee applies
Related: A Beer Lover’s Guide to Breweries in Orlando
Happy Hour and Events at HAOS on Church
123 West Church St Orlando
One of the newest venues on Church Street is also one of the most intriguing. HAOS on Church has a unique, artsy and somewhat provocative vibe. Happy Hour is offered from 5:00-7:00pm every Wednesday through Friday, with specials on select cocktails. There are events each week, some with a $10 entry fee that goes to the performers. Their karaoke night on Wednesdays is free.
*As of September 2023, HAOS is closed for renovations. Check back for a reopening announcement.
Picnic at Lake Eola Park
512 E. Washington St.
Throw together a picnic for two and head over to Lake Eola Park to enjoy your feast. Watch the beautiful white and black swans swimming across the lake, take a stroll around the lake, or just relax together.
FREE; parking prices vary
