The City Beautiful is full of discoveries. From the most beautiful places in Orlando, which include indoor and outdoor spaces, to art museums and experiences, there's a lot for adults to do in Orlando. And there are some hidden gems too!
We absolutely LOVE following spouses Rob and Chuck, the duo behind the Instagram account lego_explore_orlando. They showcase must-see places in Orlando from the perspective of Legos in such a creative fashion. Check out this list of lesser-known Orlando gems courtesy of lego_explore_orlando!
Orlando's Hidden Gems
Art and History Museums – Maitland
A&H’s Maitland Art Center is Central Florida’s only National Historic Landmark. It is easily Central Florida’s most Instagrammable locale, a stunning wedding venue, and a perfect spot to find a bench and read a good book. Opened in 1937 as an artist’s colony, its legacy continues today with a number of in-studio artists that create new works daily and offer a variety of public workshops.
Historic Downtown Sanford
Over the years, Historic Downtown Sanford has undergone a stunning change that demands a visit. These 16 square blocks are now home to some of Central Florida’s best restaurants, a food hall, craft breweries, a distillery, a folk-art gallery, two community theaters, and some amazing shopping.
The area is home to two of our favorite annual events, Sanford Porchfest, and many other things to do in Sanford.
Greenwood Cemetery
A cemetery… how romantic! Greenwood is Orlando’s oldest official cemetery, and the resting place of many famous Orlandoans with familiar names: T.G. Lee, Mayor Bob Carr, Joseph Bumby, Mayor Capt. James Parramore, and Joe Tinker. The city used to offer a FREE monthly moonlight walking tour, but it is no longer offered.
Still, if you want to explore Orlando history it is an interesting place to visit. And if you're into that sort of thing American Ghost Adventures is one of our favorite downtown Orlando date ideas.
Lake Concord Park
Adjacent to Casselberry City Hall is one of Central Florida’s most picturesque parks. Along Lake Concord, you’ll find a beautifully landscaped public space punctuated by eleven magnificent sculptures. Pack a picnic basket and cozy up under the large oak tree. If you bring the little ones with you, there is a climbing structure and splash pads for them.
The sculpture Aurora is amazing, but doesn’t fit in our trunk (not that we tried or anything). By the way, this park has one of our favorite Christmas light displays during the festive time of year!
Beefy King
Although it is not hidden, it is still a gem! You’ve likely driven by this Orlando icon hundreds of times, but haven’t yet veered your car into the parking lot. Don’t put it off any longer. There’s a reason this local joint has been serving up roast beef sandwiches for over 50 years. We recommend the roast beef with spuds and a cherry milkshake. Our family has been eating here for generations, you can trust us.
Orlando’s Murals
Orlando’s art scene has experienced a renaissance in these past few years, evidenced by the addition of over 50 amazing murals throughout Downtown Orlando and its surrounding neighborhoods. Make a day of it by grabbing your friends and your cell phone cameras as you tour and pose with these incredible works of art. We recommend starting in the Milk District, then heading to Mills 50, then up Ivanhoe row to the Greetings from Orlando mural at Orange and Colonial, before heading to College Park. Of course, you’ll want to pop into the local restaurants and bars along the way.
The Enzian
Maitland’s Enzian celebrates 25 years this year. This cinema café is home to the Eden Bar and the Florida Film Festival. It is Central Florida’s only alternative cinema offering independent, foreign, and classic films. Shy away from the megaplexes this Friday and try something a little different, you might be surprised.
Explore more: Our favorite date ideas at the Enzian
Lake Eola Swan Boats
Ok, so this one is no secret. We all know that Lake Eola offers some of the most beautiful views of the city and is host to numerous festivals throughout the year, and an incredible Orlando Farmers' Market. We just can’t help but wonder how you have lived here for umpteen years and haven’t yet been out on a swan boat. It is time. No, really, finish this list, get in your car, and go ride in a swan boat.
About @lego_explore_orlando
Spouses Rob and Chuck try to take advantage of all that this amazing city has to offer. From hyper-local events and locales to the tourist corridor, they are intent on experiencing it all. Follow their Instagram account @lego_explore_orlando to discover the best things to do around town in a fun and quirky way.
All images courtesy of lego_explore_orlando.
Small Towns and Hidden Gems
More posts in this archived series:
- Kid-Friendly Dates Around Orlando by @momlando
- Orlando’s Most Sought-After Frozen Treat Spots by @sweetseekers
- 7 Orlando Bachelor and Bachelorette Party Ideas by @theorlandoduo
- 9 Ways to Spend an Afternoon in Central Florida by @orlandoadventuring
- A Tour of Sanford’s Best Bars and Eateries by @drinksanford
- 8 Things to do at Disney Without a Park Ticket by @livingbydisney
- 10 Orlando Dessert Places You Must Visit by @arlenemlaboy
