What is there to do in Orlando this Memorial Day?
Memorial Day weekend is on the horizon! Are you ready? Do you need some curated, uber-cool ideas about how to spend the Memorial Day holiday? Here are 23 cool ideas (off the beaten path!) about how to spend your Memorial Day holiday!
Even more ideas can be found in our 50 Summer Date Ideas list.
FEATURED
Memorial Day Weekend at JW Marriott Clearwater Beach
Dive into luxury Gulf Front experiences with our exclusive calendar of Memorial Day Weekend events at JW Marriott’s beachfront resort. Enjoy Dive-in movies under the stars, unwind with specialty spa offers, embrace whimsy with kid’s face painting and fairy hair in the lobby. Reserve nighttime adventures for the little ones at our Hideaway Hangout kid’s club, savor beachfront BBQ delights, indulge in pop-up ice cream shops, and elevate your rooftop pool experience with the Tattinger champagne cart. Your unforgettable beach escape awaits!
Resort Packages are available.
FEATURED
Grande Lakes Orlando Memorial Day GLO Summer
Memorial Day weekend kicks off GLO Summer at Grande Lakes Orlando, a seasonal celebration filled with entertainment every Saturday and summer holiday.
Guests can look forward to a mix of relaxing and high-energy experiences across the resort. Highlights include:
- Memorial Day Feast at Highball & Harvest – A holiday-inspired menu and cocktails in honor of the U.S. military.
- Remember & Honor 5K – A scenic fun run/walk through the back 9 of the Greg Norman-designed golf course, followed by champagne, mimosas, massages with Theragun, and a chance to win spa treatments. Includes a T-shirt, medal, and goodie bag. Open to all ages and the public.
- Inflatable Water Slides on the Da Vinci Lawn – Cool off with kid-approved thrills.
- Movie Under the Stars – Enjoy an outdoor family movie night on the lawn.
- Silent Disco Bleu – Dance to your own beat with wireless headphones, colorful cocktails, tasty bites, and a stunning fireworks finale.
- On-Property Favorites – Food trucks, face painting, balloon artists, live music, steel drummers, and fresh coconuts (with or without alcohol) at The Ritz-Carlton Pool.
Click for info and to book your Memorial Day Weekend escape.
Seas the Summer Memorial Weekend Celebration at Tradewinds Island Resorts
Seas the Summer Memorial Weekend Celebration at Tradewinds Island Resorts
Kick-off summer this Memorial Weekend on the soft white sands of St. Pete Beach at TradeWinds Island Resorts. There is plenty of fun and sun for the entire crew with our exclusive beachfront zipline, expanded water park, sparkling pools, watersports, live music and refreshing tropical drinks! Fireworks are definitely in the forecast, as well as campfire and smore's!
Sunday, May 25, events for guests from 5 pm – 10 pm on the RumFish Lawn and Beach!
- 5 – 9 PM: Beachfront party with cornhole, face painting, balloon animals and caricature artist.
- 5 – 9 PM: Glow-In-The-Dark Bash: Light up the night during this electric evening of fun! Join us for a round of glow volleyball, or challenge your friends to life-size Jenga or ladder toss game.
- 5 – 9 PM: Full beach bar offering drink specials!
- 6 – 9 PM: Live concert performance by Tempo Tantrum (70s, 80s, 90s hits)
- 6 – 9 PM: VIP Dinner available for purchase – buffet on the RumFish Lawn, two drink tickets, and fire performers. Reservation link coming soon.
- 9 PM: Fantastic Fireworks display on the beach.
Celebrate this holiday on the beach, and better yet, save on your stay when you visit myorlandobeach.com.
1. Watch Memorial Holiday Fireworks
Book a Memorial Weekend getaway at one of our fabulous local resorts and enjoy the added bonus of holiday fireworks displays. Orlando World Center Marriott (Sunday at 9pm followed by laser light show at 9:15 pm) and Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate (Saturday at 9pm) will all have festive displays for resort guests.
Glo Summer Nights Celebrations and Weekly Fireworks Displays
Boasting signature weekly fireworks displays in addition to spectacular glow-charged nights at the recently debuted Grande Lakes Waterpark, alongside an abundance of activations fit for every traveler. Throughout the summer, Grande Lakes Orlando will play host to an array of experiences perfect for families and guests of all ages including dazzling fireworks displays that will take center stage every Saturday evening at 9pm.
There are even Memorial Day Weekend Deals!
2. Orlando Fringe
Take in a few shows at the Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival which is back this year from May 13th- 26th, 2025, perfect for something fun to do the Memorial Day weekend. This 14-day art festival features hundreds of shows throughout multiple venues in Orlando’s Loch Haven Park. Shows range from comedy to burlesque, music to drama, and everything in between.
3. Outdoor movies
Catch a flick at a local drive-in movie theater this Memorial weekend, or watch an outdoor movie.
4. Bike ride Memorial Weekend date
Rent bikes this Memorial Holiday Weekend and cycle the West Orange Trail. We love starting at Killarney Station and ending in Downtown Winter Garden. Oakland Nature Preserve is a notable stop along the way, with a boardwalk to Lake Apopka and free admission. The Cross Seminole Trail is another option.
5. Have lunch on a farm
Memorial Day weekend is the last day to enjoy lunch under the gorgeous oak tree at Bountiful Farms Bistro. The farm will close for the season at the end of May, and will reopen in October, so Memorial Day Weekend is your last chance to enjoy this setting until fall. Current hours are Wednesday – Saturday from 11am – 3pm. Summer hours can change due to weather, for info call 352-409-3204.
6. Float down a river in a tube this Memorial Day
Soak up the sun at one of Central Florida's natural lazy rivers. Two of our favorite spots are Kelly Park and KP Hole.
FYI: Kelly Park will fill up to capacity. Get there early to get in line if you're hoping to get in.
7. Get wild at Gatorland
For an activity that's just as suitable for a date day as a family outing, head to Gatorland. This classic Florida attraction has southern charm and a wild side.
Kids will also love the many petting zoos in Orlando, one of which is located inside Gatorland, along with a great splash pad and water zone!
8. Wekiva Island
Laze the day away at Wekiva Island. Private cabanas are available for rent and there's live music every Saturday evening.
DISCOVER: 7 Things to Do at Wekiva Island
9. Munch Your Way through a Local Farmer's Market
Pick up something delicious and locally grown at one of our local farmer's markets. Then take it home to create a delicious meal combining local produce with your favorite meats on the grill. Try the Windermere (Friday), Winter Park (Saturday), Winter Garden (Saturday) or Lake Eola Farmer’s Market (Sunday).
10. Pick your own Blueberries and Peaches
Blueberry season is winding down in Florida. The season typically winds down near the end of May/early June, so get out there and visit a local u-pick farm like Southern Hill Farms and Amber Brooke Farms while you can. Farms are also offering u-pick sunflowers, wildflowers, peaches, and more.
11. Take a Hike
Some of our local favorites include Lake Lotus Park, Lake Louisa State Park, Wekiwa Springs State Park, and Flat Island Preserve. Or, try one of these natural parks near the theme parks.
12. Brewery Hop
Orlando has a fantastic craft beer scene and there are new craft breweries popping up around town. Our Beer Lover's Guide to Breweries in Orlando has them all. And if the kids need to come along, check out 10 Kid-Friendly Orlando Breweries.
13. Go kayaking
There are so many kayaking experiences near Orlando. Explore Rock Springs Run in a clear kayak, paddle the headwaters of the Everglades from The Paddling Center at Shingle Creek (in Kissimmee), or try a nighttime paddle with A Day Away Kayak Tours.
14. Visit Downtown Celebration
Get out and enjoy the sunshine with a lunch date and a walk around Downtown Celebration. Share truffle fries and flatbreads paired with wine at Imperium, get a scoop (or two) of gelato from Le Macaron, rent bikes, or explore the paved pathways on foot.
15. Make your own pancakes
Eat DIY pancakes at Old Spanish Sugar Mill at DeLeon Springs. This open-air eatery is THE reason De Leon Springs State Park needs to be added to your bucket list. You get all-you-can-eat pancakes, made by you. Be prepared for a wait no matter what time of day you visit, as this is a popular activity.
16. Pack a picnic
Nothing says summer quite like lazing the day away on a picnic blanket in a local park. Go on a romantic picnic with our favorite spots as your guide.
17. Book a Staycation
Book a local staycation at Orlando World Center Marriott which is hosting a Memorial Weekend celebration with BBQ/live DJ & Fireworks.
Alternatively, Grande Lakes Orlando (Saturday at 9pm) and Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate (Saturday at 9pm) will all have festive displays for guests staying overnight at the resort.
DISCOVER: 12 Amazing Memorial Day Weekend Deals and Getaways
18. Hop on the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour
Make Memorial Day weekend the time you finally take the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour. Tours run daily on the hour from 10am – 4pm and tickets are $20. Combine this with a double date for Prato and gelato.
19. Dine outdoors
See how many of these 75+ restaurants with great outdoor seating you can make it to in the span of the long weekend.
20. Spend the day at a resort pool
You don't have to be an overnight guest to spend the day at one of Orlando's best resort pools. Many hotels and resorts offer day passes through Resort Pass or grant access to locals for the day with a qualifying spa appointment. Memorial Day weekend in Orlando is the perfect time to spend the day together poolside.
21. Try an Only in Florida adventure
There are some things you just can’t do anywhere else. Enjoy a unique experience by trying one of these only in Florida adventures.
22. Relax at a Spa
For a quick and affordable idea you can enjoy the Wellsystem Massage Bed at JW Marriott Bonnet Creek. This 20-minute spa session melts stress away, starting at $50.
The Spa by JW at JW Marriott Bonnet Creek just earned a 4-star Forbes Travel Guide rating, and it's easy to see why. Unwind with massages, steam rooms, and saunas, and enjoy the co-ed relaxation room together. The Ritz-Carlton Spa at Grande Lakes is the best in Orlando and treatment there unlocks access to an adults only pool and gorgeous relaxation rooms.
Or head to the Orlando Beer Spa for a private room, cozy tub, and craft brews on tap . This is a fun twist on the spa experience.
The Mandara Spa at the Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin resort spa feels like a hidden temple retreat. Book a 50- or 80-minute massage and let your cares drift away Disney-style.
Plan your spa outing with our list of the best spas for couples.
23. Check out some Memorial Day Events in Orlando
In addition to our curated list, here are a few events happening this weekend for you to check out:
Memorial 4 Day Weekend
May 23-26, 2025
Promenade at Sunset Walk
3251 Margaritaville Blvd. Kissimmee
Enjoy live music, street performers, markets, car shows and more.
FREE
Memorial Day Ceremony
Friday, May 23, 10am
Orlando VA Medical Center in Lake Nona
This solemn occasion will pay tribute to the brave men and women who have selflessly served and sacrificed for the United States Armed Forces. Attendees will have the opportunity to reflect on the valor and dedication of those who have given their lives in service to our country.
FREE
Remember & Honor – Memorial Day 5k
Saturday, May 24, 6:30-9am
The Ritz-Carlton Grande Lakes
4012 Central Florida Pkwy, Orlando, FL 32837
The Remember & Honor – Memorial Day 5k is a walk or fun run family event which you can enjoy while taking in the amazing landscape of this beautiful Grande Lakes resort. After the race, replenish your body with champagne or mimosas, an assortment of healthy snack options, as well as a stretching and massage by their spa therapists. You will also receive an exclusive T-shirt, medal, and a special goodie bag.
$75
Memorial Day Feast
Saturday and Sunday, May 24-25, 5:30-10pm
Highball & Harvest
4012 Central Florida Parkway, Orlando, FL
Join Highball & Harvest in honoring the U.S. Military with a holiday-inspired menu and cocktails.
Memorial Day Salute
Saturday, May 24, 9:45-11:30am
Cypress Grove Park
290 Holden Ave., Orlando, FL 32839
Enjoy this Memorial Day Salute, honoring all Veterans, presented by Friends of Cypress Grove Park. Event activities include Meaning and Folding of the American Flag, VFW Post 2093 Community Band, Veterans Pinning Ceremony, POW/MIA Presentation, Patriotic Guest Speaker, and Posting of the Colors. Bring chairs, blankets, and a picnic.
FREE
Rock N’ Blues Concert & Car Show
Saturday, May 24, 4-9pm
Lake Concord Park
95 Triplet Lake Drive, CASSELBERRY, FL 32707
View more than 150 classic cars ranging from Camaros to Chevelles to Mustangs, plus food trucks and live music.
FREE Admission
Reggae Fest Orlando Memorial Day Weekend
Saturday, May 24, 9pm
The Vanguard
578 N. Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801
The biggest dance party in the U.S. returns to Orlando Memorial Day weekend! Get ready to dance and vibe to DJ's spinning the best tunes in Dancehall, Reggae, Afrobeats, Amapiano, Soca, Reggaeton & more.
Tickets start at $20
Memorial Day Community Ceremony
Monday, May 26, 8:30-9:30am
Veterans Memorial Park
420 S. Park Avenue, Winter Garden
The Memorial Day Community Ceremony will honor and remember local veterans who gave their lives during times of war or while serving in the United States armed forces. The event includes a Roll Call of Veterans, placement of wreaths, and patriotic songs to pay homage to those that made ultimate sacrifice.
Memorial Day at Sanford
2025 TBA
Veterans Memorial Park
Honor and preserve the legacy of the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and members of the Coast Guard, our heroic guardians of freedom, who gave their lives in service to this Country.
Memorial Day Skate
2025 TBA
Astro Skate Orlando
866 S Goldenrod Rd, Orlando, FL 32822
Enjoy your Extended Weekend at Astro Skate. FREE AYCE Hot Dogs & Hamburgers served 1st Hour!
Admission is only $10+Rental
Memorial Day Event at Boxi Park
2025 TBA
Boxi Park
Featuring food & drink specials, kids activities, and live music!
No cover, price of food and beverage varies
Jungle Jam
2025 TBA
d.b.a.
809 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
Enjoy tropical rhythms, specialty cocktails, select wine by the glass, and snacks by The Strand. $10 at the door will get you a complimentary shot of jungle juice.
City of Orlando Memorial Day Commemoration
2025 TBA
Greenwood Cemetery
1603 Greenwood St, Orlando, FL 32801
District 4 City Commissioner Patty Sheehan and members of Mayor Buddy Dyer’s Veterans Advisory Council will lead a special Memorial Day Commemoration Ceremony to honor and remember the men and women of the United States Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.
Orlando Memorial Day Weekend Vendor Market & Car Show
2025 TBA
Gateway Classic Cars of Orlando
635 Century Point, Lake Mary, FL 32746
The fun starts with free coffee and pastries while supplies last and the Vendor Market goes until 2pm. Event includes Vendor Market (9am-2pm), Caffeine & Chrome Car Show (9am-Noon), and Women In Wheels Car Show (Noon-2pm). Bring the whole family and check out the classic cars and support local small businesses.
FREE
Feature image credit: Orlando World Center Marriott
