The liveliness of Orlando can be found through the many districts around town. One of the liveliest districts of them all is the multi-mile strip of International Drive. This walkable vein in the middle of the attractions area offers happy hour deals, diverse dining options, live music, weekend brunches, entertainment venues and bars, and more. Dive into the best things to do on International Drive for adults – whether its for date night, a birthday, or you're a visitor.
1. Listen to live music
Head to local restaurants and bars for a full lineup of live music performances. Ole Red Orlando boasts live music nearly every night of the week. Tin Roof Orlando is also a lively spot for local tunes, and on weekends there are often several acts performing on the main stage throughout the day.
Pointe Orlando has multiple venues with great live music and dancing too!
2. Try an I-Drive happy hour
A surprising amount of I-Drive restaurants offer amazing happy hour deals for a budget-friendly date night. Most happy hours are on weekdays, but a few are offered daily.
Happy hours at The Pointe (Pointe Orlando):
- Taverna Opa: Daily happy hour 3–6 p.m. in the bar area; 2-for-1 drinks, half-price cocktails, and light Greek meze appetizers for half off
- Kavas Tacos and Tequila: Daily happy hour 3–6 p.m. in the bar area, $2 – $8 appetizers, $5 house margaritas, $5 Mexican mules, 1/2 off beer, house wine, and house margarita pitchers
- Maggiano's Little Italy: Monday – Friday 3-6pm; Premium drafts $5, classic cocktails $8, wine by the glass $8, and flatbreads $7
- The Pub: Monday – Friday 3-6pm; $2 off all draught beer selections, well cocktails $5, Trinity Oaks House wines $5.50, Pub Favourite Cocktails $7, and sharables $6.50
Happy hours at ICON Park:
- Helena Modern Riviera: Monday – Friday until 6pm; craft your own cocktail for $9.90, enjoy a selection of side dishes for $9.90, and sip on draft beer, wines by the glass, and mimosas for $5-6.
- Tin Roof Orlando: Monday – Friday 2-6pm; $3 Domestic Drafts, $3 Well Liquor, $4 Green Tea – White Tea – Lemondrop – Fireball, $5 NUTRL & White Claw, $5 Jack Daniels – Tito’s – Jameson – Espolon Tequila – Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, plus Saturday: Bottomless Mimosas's 12pm to 3pm, Sunday: Happy Hour 7pm to 10pm (excludes food)
- Yard House: Monday-Friday 3-6pm and Monday-Wednesday late night from 10pm-close; Half-priced pizzas and select appetizers, $2 off all draft beer/wine/spirits/cocktails, $3 off 9oz wine, $4 off half yards
Elsewhere on I-Drive:
- Cafe Tu Tu Tango: Monday-Friday 3-6pm in the bar, lounge and patio; Drink specials including cocktails and sangria, $4.22 food specials or get them all for $19.22
- ICEBAR Orlando: Sunday-Thursday 5-9pm rotating specials
- Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant: Monday-Friday 2-5pm; $9.50 wine by the glass/wine specialty drinks/select cocktails, plus soup, appetizer and flatbread specials
3. Relax by a resort pool
We're huge fans of ResortPass, a website that allows you to purchase day passes to local hotel pools without spending the night.
Several participating hotels are located on I-Drive, including Hilton Orlando (which has an amazing lazy river and sparkling outdoor pool) and Hyatt Regency Orlando. Both are also convenient to the Orange County Convention Center.
4. Attend a Vegas-inspired dinner show
Teatro Martini is an adults-only dinner and a show experience on International Drive featuring dancers, an aerialist, comedians, and more. There's also an option for just drinks and the show if you want to grab dinner somewhere else before or after.
Showtimes are Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30pm. After the show, explore the speakeasy bar, Jewel, which has dueling pianos and a fun atmosphere.
5. Go Dancing
Cuba Libre at The Pointe is great for dining plus offers Cuba Libre Nights on Fridays and Saturdays. Dance to a mix of salsa, merengue, bachata, cumbia and more during Tropical Fridays beginning at 10:30pm.
Dancing is top notch at Mango's Tropical Cafe, where you'll find themed fun in the nightclub area Thursday – Sunday. Other fun dancing spots include Blue Martini, ICEBAR, Señor Frogs, and Tin Roof Orlando.
6. Global Restaurants on International Drive
Orlando's International Drive is home to authentic Ethiopian fare at Nile Ethiopian Restaurant. Enjoy Mediterranean dishes at Helena Modern Riviera, or feast on Greek cuisine while belly dancers swirl around Taverna Opa. You could also plan an English-themed date night with a visit to The Pub or Gordon Ramsay's Fish & Chips restaurant.
And Volcano Hot Pot & BBQ just opened on International Drive, one of the many great Korean BBQ restaurants in Orlando.
7. Unwind at a beer spa
International Drive has a brand new, one of a kind spa experience you've got to try at least once. At Orlando Beer Spa, sink into a relaxing tub for a blissful beer soak while you treat yourself to self-serve craft beer on tap. Couples can choose a private room with one tub or two, and the experience lasts for one hour. Book here.
Don't go before you read our Orlando Beer Spa review and tips.
8. Take a Champagne flight on The Orlando Eye
Taking flight on The Orlando Eye at ICON Park, complete with two glasses of champagne, has date night written all over it. Just grab a drink of your choice before your ride at SkyBar, including wine and champagne. Line up your “flight” with sunset for extra romance.
9. Indoor Places on International Drive
From an amazing aquarium to glow in the dark mini golf, one of the best things to do on International Drive is play indoors. Whether it's a rainy day or way too hot outside, I-Drive is home to many fun indoor activities in Orlando.
10. Immerse yourself into a movie at a 4DX Theater
Want to feel like you're part of the latest blockbuster? The Pointe's movie theater, Regal Pointe Orlando 4DX & IMAX, happens to be a 4DX theater. Select films are screened in 2D or 3D and enhanced with motion activated seats and interactive sensory experiences.
11. Arcade Monsters
Have a blast playing games in a 16,000 square feet of arcade gaming, restaurant, bar, merchandise store, and anime art exhibit space. Arcade Monsters is locally owned and a fun for all ages, even adults.
12. Savor Magical Dining Month menus
We look forward to the month of August each year, which always kicks off Visit Orlando's multi-week Magical Dining program. This annual celebration of Orlando eateries features dozens of restaurants offering date nighters a three-course, prix fixe menu for just $40/person.
As an added bonus, $1 from each meal is donated to a worthy local cause each year. Magical Dining is Friday, Aug. 16 through Sept. 30, 2024 with a record 150 restaurants, including 25 new restaurants!
13. Visit a chocolate museum
Because one isn't enough, there are TWO chocolate museum experiences on Chocolate Kingdom and The Chocolate Museum. Both offer guided chocolate tours, but we love The Chocolate Museum's wine & chocolate pairing, which includes museum admission for $35.
14. FunnyBone Comedy Club
One of the best things for adults to do on International Drive is laugh out loud! FunnyBone Comedy Club and Restaurant is the new name of the legendary comedy club formerly known as Orlando Imrpov.
15. Upscale Restaurants on International Drive
Dress in your date night best for an upscale night out at Del Frisco's, Oceanaire Seafood Room, A Land Remembered (located inside Rosen Shingle Creek), or The Capital Grille. Dress up nice and raise a glass to an adult night out.
16. Dive into Weekend brunch
Spend a lazy Saturday or Sunday brunch at one of I-Drive's best brunch spots. Here are a few we love:
- The Hampton Social: Saturday – Sunday 10am – 3pm; Featuring the Fried Chicken Stack and the Frosé Bellini
- Mia's Italian Kitchen: Saturday-Sunday 11am – 3pm; Bottomless mimosa deals, plus bottomless brunch dining
- Kavas Tacos and Tequila: NEW Brunch Saturday and Sunday 11am – 2:30pm, with $18 bottomless sangria, house margaritas, or mimosas
17. Arcades at International Drive
Get in touch with your inner child at Main Event Entertainment, which offers dining options, VR experiences, laser tag, bowling, games, and more all under one roof. Max Action Arena at ICON Park is another great choice for VR experiences, laser tag, and more.
18. Hang out at a local brewery and craft beer bar
Did you know the I-Drive district is home to a local brewpub? Half Barrel Beer Project offers their own brews on tap alongside those from other Florida craft breweries. Find this spot near International Drive on Universal Blvd (soon to be home to Universal Epic Universe).
19. Snuggle up in fur coats at ICEBAR Orlando
Don your cozy winter jacket (provided with your ticket package), and sip an ice-cold concoction with your date when visiting ICEBAR Orlando on International Drive. It's the perfect antidote to steamy summer temperatures! Start off in the Fire Lounge with cocktails and light bites before heading into the frosty bar awesome ice sculptures.
Take advantage of the Florida Freeze package, which includes jacket and gloves rental, a premium drink and one appetizer of choice in the Fire Lounge.
20. Chill out at a sports bar
Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux is a relatively new addition to I-Drive perfect for sports fans. The restaurant chain was founded by Brandon Landry, a former walk-on basketball player at LSU. Immerse yourself in the game-day fun while noshing on Cajun cuisine and game-day favorites with a twist.
Tom’s Watch Bar is perched above International Drive, with 360-degree sports viewing experience and world-class rooftop views. The big draw is the giant stadium screens or the 150+ TVs lining the restaurant and bar. Take in amazing views of the Orlando skyline thanks to the two-story venue’s prime rooftop location, all while enjoying chef-inspired delicious dishes and drinks.
Other spots to watch football and sports on I-Drive include Miller's Ale House and Cheers Sports Bar.
21. Fun Spot
Why not fully embrace date night in a tourist district? Dress in your best tourist-inspired outfits and then explore Fun Spot America together. Sneak a kiss on the Ferris Wheel, zip around in go-karts, have a Midway games competition, and fill up on fair food. Lean ALL the way in!
22. Swim with dolphins
Escape to a tropical island during an all-inclusive day at Discovery Cove. Breakfast, lunch, snacks, beverages (including beer and wine), masks and a take-home snorkel, sunscreen, day-use towels and wet suits are all part of your admission. You've also got full use of the lazy river, Grand Reef, aviary, dolphin encounters and so much more. Florida residents can enjoy 20% off tickets.
23. Make art at Abstract Orlando
Create your own fluid art or resin art masterpieces side by side at Abstract Orlando. This artsy studio will guide you in creating your own abstract creation and features fun options like canvases, cheeseboards, coasters and cake stands.
Beer and wine are available for purchase if you need a little help channeling the muse. FYI: You will need to return to the studio at a later date to pick up your finished piece or pay for shipping.
24. Skydive…indoors
Feeling adventurous, but not quite ready to jump out of an airplane? Indoor skydiving is the perfect date for you. iFLY Orlando offers this unique 2-hour experience on International Drive.
25. Plan an Overnight staycation
Extend your I-Drive date with an overnight stay. A few of our top picks on I-Drive include Hilton Orlando (unwind in the lazy river and with a spa treatment), Rosen Shingle Creek, Avanti Resorts, Hyatt Regency Orlando, and CoCo Key Hotel & Water Resort.
26. Break out of an Escape Room together
Escape rooms seem to be everywhere, several notable ones along I-Drive including Escapology, America's Escape Game, and The Escape Game Orlando. Put your problem solving skills to the test and enhance your bond at one of the many escape rooms in Orlando.
27. Savor something sweet
Try a dessert-only date night for a fun twist on your usual routine. Over the top desserts on I-Drive include the chocolate piñata at Uncle Julio's and pretty much everything on the menu at Sugar Factory.
28. Attend special events
Comedy acts, big name and tribute concerts, conventions, theme park festivals, holiday happenings and more are all part of the event lineup in the I-Drive district. See what's on the events calendar.
29. Take advantage of Florida resident deals
Locals in the know can take advantage of Florida resident deals at I-Drive hotels, attractions and restaurants. A few of our favorites are discounted dining at Cafe Tu Tu Tango, the Florida Freeze package at ICEBAR, and 20% off at Discovery Cove.
30. Play Mini Golf
When we asked our readers about their favorite first date, several recalled a memorable first date outing at Pirate's Cove mini golf on I-Drive. It's one of my favorite mini golf courses in Orlando, with a fun theme and challenging holes. In fact, you'll find most of Orlando's best mini golf courses along I-Drive, including a glow in the dark course.
31. Go indoor go karting
Several indoor go-kart racing options are available to Orlando locals including K1 Speed and Andretti Indoor Karting & Games, which has an arcade bar, ropes/zipline course, laser tag, bowling and more in addition to karting.
Related: Indoor Date Ideas for a Rainy Day in Orlando
32. Have your own bowling tournament
Enjoy a little friendly competition with your own bowling tournament. You can reserve a lane at King's Dining and Entertainment or Main Event Entertainment, which both have bowling alleys. This would also be a fun idea for a double date night.
33. Sip craft brews at a sci-fi themed bar
Vault 5421 is a small hidden bar located within the local comic book store Gods & Monsters. This in-house lounge has a nice drink menu and a delightfully nerdy atmosphere.
34. Practice your swing at Topgolf
Golf lovers will want to check out Topgolf, a sprawling, multi-level 65,000 square foot golf entertainment complex located near I-Drive. The Orlando location features Toptracer technology, creating an instant playback of your golf ball hit. Each hitting bay is climate-controlled, so no need to wait for cooler temperatures. Go on a Tuesday for half-priced game play.
35. Hitch a ride on the I-Drive Trolley
Did you know there's a trolley that runs along I-Drive, stopping at all of the best attractions? The I-RIDE Trolley makes 30+ stops and a day pass is just $5/person. Park the car at a free garage and then hop on the trolley to explore the full district at your leisure.
36. Stroll through a quirky museum
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is known as the weirdest place in Orlando, highlighting unusual relics and rare treasures throughout 16 galleries. Museum of Illusions is another oddball spot to explore with a childlike sense of wonder. And don't forget the world famous Madame Tussauds Orlando – where you can get up close and personal with the hottest celebs!
And you can't miss I-Drive's iconic upside down building–aka WonderWorks–where you can immerse yourself in mind-bending experiences – it's the perfect spot for your next date night!
37. Enjoy a spa day together
Here are a few International Drive spas with special treatment options just for couples:
- eforea spa at Hilton Orlando
- Mandara Spa at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
- The Spa at Shingle Creek
- The Spa at Rosen Centre
38. Play glow in the dark mini golf
Putting Edge has a fun glow in the dark mini golf course. While it may be a bit cheesy, the course is surprisingly challenging and a fun way to pass an hour. It's also a unique activity for a rainy day, or for escaping steamy summer temperatures.
39. Wander through SEA Life Aquarium
Located in the same complex as The Wheel, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium is surprisingly enjoyable and larger in size than it appears from the outside. Walk through an ocean tunnel, spot sharks and sea turtles, and more.
40. Universal Orlando Restaurants
Universal Orlando, Islands of Adventure, SeaWorld Orlando, Discovery Cove, Aquatica Orlando all call the I-Drive district home. But even if you don't splurge on tickets to one of these parks, you can head to Universal CityWalk which features the Great Movie Escape and some of the best restaurants at Universal Orlando.
Pro tip: If you're visiting CityWalk, you can utilize the free water taxi to visit some of the theme park hotels, too.
41. Snap silly selfies at Museum of Illusions
Wander through this mind-bending museum for an assortment of quirky photo-ops. Interact with optical illusions, explore playful exhibits, and expand your perception. This is a great spot to bring along the kids, too!
42. Have a diner date
Fill up on diner food for a nostalgic date. A few of our favorite options on I-Drive include B-Line Diner at Hyatt Regency Orlando has some seriously classic diner desserts like pie, malts, shakes, and a banana split.
43. Splash around a water park
Where to go when you need to beat the summer heat? Head to one of I-Drive's numerous water parks. Splash your way around CoCo Key, Aquatica Orlando, and Volcano Bay.
44. Explore Dezerland Park
Dezerland Park is a huge indoor space with go-karting, bowling, arcade games, axe throwing, and glow-in-the-dark putt putt at Putting Edge.
45. Check out dinner + a show
Sure, they can get a little cheesy at times, but dinner shows are such a fun date night idea! Check out Teatro Martini, a dinner show that's adults-only. Or, test your detective skills as you laugh your way through the murderous dinner show at Sleuths.
There's also a special cocktail party + dinner gala at the Titanic Artifact Museum, Velvet Sessions (complete with cocktails and light bites) at Hard Rock Hotel Orlando, and comedy shows at Improv Orlando.
46. Experience new attractions
Head to Universal to check out the new Jurassic World VelociCoaster, or SeaWorld Orlando's new Penguin Trek roller coaster.
47. Step into the Titanic
Visit the Promenade Deck, walk down the Grand Staircase and more at Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition. This I-Drive attraction features 300+ artifacts, room recreations, guided tours and more. For an extra immersive experience, get tickets to the dinner gala on Friday and Saturday nights including a multi-course meal, cocktail party and historical reenactments.
48. Take a helicopter tour
While not located directly on I-Drive, MaxFlight offers helicopter tours which will take you on a flight over area theme parks and I-Drive attractions, including The Wheel. Walt Disney World can be seen in the distance too. Schedule a sunset, nighttime, or theme park fireworks tour for a more romantic experience.
49. Shop 'til you drop at the outlet malls
Shop for some spiffy new date night digs at Orlando International Premium Outlets and Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets, both located on International Drive. The I-Ride Trolley also makes stops at both destinations if you don't want to deal with trying to score a good parking spot at the outlets.
50. Relax on the lawn at ICON Park
Looking for a budget-friendly idea? Bring along your favorite book, grab an ice cream and get some Vitamin D while relaxing on the lawn at ICON Park. The Wheel is the perfect backdrop for a couple's selfie. Parking is free!
Feature image credit: Pointe Orlando