50 Date Night Ideas on I-Drive for Locals

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!

Live music at Ole Red Orlando on International Drive
Image credit: Ole Red Orlando

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 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, 1/2 off beer
  • Maggiano's Little Italy: Monday – Friday 3-6pm; Premium drafts $3, classic cocktails $7, Canopy Hill wine $6 and flatbreads $4
  • 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:

  • Tapa Toro: Daily happy hour 3-6pm; 2-for-1 drinks, half off house beer/wine/sangria, half price cocktail pitchers, and discounted appetizers
  • Tin Roof Orlando: Monday – Friday 4-6pm; $1 OFF Domestic Drafts, $3 Pink Whitney, $3 Fireball, $3 House Wine, 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, $3.22 food specials or get them all for $18.22
  • 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.

Hilton Orlando lazy river - hotel on International Drive
Image credit: Hilton Orlando

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.

Dancers during Teatro Martini show on International Drive Orlando
Teatro Martini show on International Drive Orlando – image by Dani Meyering

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.


Cuba-Libre-Pointe-Orlando-Latin-Dancing-and-Live-Band
Cuba Libre on International Drive – image by Dani Meyering

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. Spanish tapas and enjoy live flamenco performances at Tapa Toro, 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.

Taverna Opa Restaurant on International Drive – image by Dani Meyering

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.

orlando Beer spa treatment rooms
Beer spa treatment room options include one tub or two | Dani Meyering

8. Take a Champagne flight on The Wheel

Taking flight on The Wheel 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.

Main Event Entertainment Center

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. 2023 dates and info coming soon.

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 $29.90.

Chocolate and wine pairing at Chocolate Kingdom

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:

French Toast Brunch Tacos and Birria Hash at Kavas Tacos Tequila – image by Dani Meyering

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).

Date ideas in International Drive - Half Barrel Beer Project
Image credit: Half Barrel Beer Project

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.

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.

Abstract Orlando - date night idea on International Drive
Image credit: Abstract Orlando

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.

Uncle Julio's Chocolate Pinata
Uncle Julio's Chocolate Pinata

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.

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.

dark and creepy interior of Vault 521 Bar in Orlando - Dani Meyering
Vault 5421 Bar in Orlando – Dani Meyering

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:

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.

SeaLife Aquarium Orlando - Indian Ocean Tank
SeaLife Aquarium Orlando – Indian Ocean Tank | Dani Meyering

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.

Grand Banks Swizzle Cocktail Universal's Great Movie Escape
Grand Banks Swizzle Cocktail Universal's Great Movie Escape – Terri Peters

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.

Dancers and Dining area at Teatro Martini show on International Drive Orlando
Teatro Martini show – image by Dani Meyering

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 brand new Jurassic World VelociCoaster, or SeaWorld Orlando's new Ice Breaker and 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!

Lawn and water feature of Icon Park Orlando
Relax at the Lawn of Icon Park Orlando | Dani Meyering

Feature image credit: Pointe Orlando