What is there to do in Orlando this Memorial Day?
Memorial Day weekend is FINALLY here! 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.
Memorial Day weekend celebrations at JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek
Make this Memorial Day weekend unforgettable with the array of recreation offerings at JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek. Dive into relaxation with two sparkling pools and poolside cabanas for rent, where you can soak up the sun and sip on refreshing cocktails while enjoying the holiday vibes. For those seeking fun in the sun, they will have poolside activities for all members of the family, including a mermaid meet and greet, fairy visits, face painting, crafts, and their famous watermelon eating contest!
Indulge in culinary delights and al fresco dining at their poolside restaurant Palm Cove with special Memorial Day favorites and delectable treats. If you’d rather a more intimate poolside experience, you can rent one of the luxury poolside cabanas complete with plush couches, satellite TV, ceiling fan, chilled towels, refreshments, and more.
With something for everyone and within the gates of Walt Disney World resort, this hotel is the ideal destination to spend Memorial Day weekend with friends and family.
Plate Above Catering
Summer is the season for cookouts and outdoor dining. Plate Above Catering delivers summer vibes to your BBQs and picnics with dishes that are sure to be a crowd pleaser. From savory ribs to elevated salads, Plate Above offers a variety of dishes to choose from to match your taste buds.
No matter your preference, each dish ensures restaurant-quality, scratch-made cuisines from a team of award-winning chefs.
Visit here to view menus and place your order now.
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!
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.
SUNSET, FIREWORKS & CHAMPAGNE
Experience the magic of the lake view, enhanced by the dazzling display of fireworks, right from the EVRBAR Terrace. This isn't just about the view, but an immersive experience where you will relish gourmet small bites prepared by their talented chef, set off perfectly with a welcoming glass of champagne. There's no need to worry about standing, as you can enjoy all of this from the comfort of a reserved seating area. Time: 7:00pm – 9:30pm
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 14th- 27th, 2024, 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. Current hours are Wednesday – Saturday from 11am – 3pm. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made by calling 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. Go on a safari
For an activity that's just as suitable for a date day as a family outing, check out a local safari experience. Wild Florida has an awesome drive-thru Safari Park with animal feeding experiences available as an add-on. Giraffe Ranch is another option.
Kids will also love the many petting zoos in Orlando.
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 in full swing in Florida but it won’t last long! 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 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.
FREE ADMISSION FOR MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND: The governor announced that entry fees will be suspended for all Florida State parks over Memorial Day weekend. These waived fees run from May 25th to 28th.
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.
Related Post: Celebrate Memorial Day with SeaWorld Orlando: Discounts Galore and Free Admission for Veterans and Active Military
22. Icon Park
Memorial Day Weekend at The Wheel at ICON Park will be shining red, white, and blue! While this year there are not any official memorial day weekend offerings, there are multiple events offered at various venues at Icon Park.
23. “Disney Dreams That Soar” Drone Show
We love doing date night at Disney Springs. The parking is free, the dining is marvelous, and it is so scenic. This summer at Disney Springs, drones will take to the skies above Lake Buena Vista with “Disney Dreams That Soar” – a summertime experience that will be a late-night perk for visitors.
After spending a day delighting in shopping, discovering fun activities and savoring diverse flavors at Disney Springs, turn your eyes to the skies above the West Side with a show amongst the stars. “Disney Dreams That Soar” will run nightly from May 24 through Sept. 2!
24. 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 24-27, 2024
Promenade at Sunset Walk
3251 Margaritaville Blvd. Kissimmee
Enjoy live music, street performers, markets, car shows and more.
FREE
Memorial Day Ceremony
Friday, May 24, 11am
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
City of Orlando Memorial Day Commemoration
Friday, May 24, 6 pm
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.
Memorial Day Feast
May 25-26, 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.
Remember & Honor – Memorial Day 5k
Saturday, May 25, 7:30-9am
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
Orlando Memorial Day Weekend Vendor Market & Car Show
Saturday, May 25, 9am-2pm
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
Memorial Day Salute
Saturday, May 25, 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
Memorial Day Weekend Boozy Book Fair
Saturday, May 25, 2-6pm
Forward/Slash
650 S Capen Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
Celebrate your Memorial Day weekend with Writer's Block Bookstore at FORWARD/SLASH! Kick off the summer with all your boozy book favorites, raffles, local vendors, and a local food vendor. A paid ticket ($12) comes with 5 raffle tickets and a drink ticket for a limited edition welcome cocktail.
FREE (A paid ticket is only required for attendees who would like the welcome cocktail and to participate in the raffles.)
90s vs 2000s Pool Party at Castle Hotel
Saturday, May 25, 4-8pm
Castle Hotel
8602 Universal Boulevard Orlando, FL 32819
It's time to dive into nostalgia as the best tunes and styles from two iconic decades battle it out. Put on your best throwback outfit and get ready to dance the day away. The pool will be buzzing with hits from the 90s and 2000s as you groove under the sun. Don't miss this epic showdown of eras! Grab your friends and let's make a splash at the Castle Hotel.
FREE
Rock N’ Blues Concert & Car Show
Saturday, May 25, 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 25, 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
Jungle Jam
Sunday, May 26, 3-8pm
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.
Memorial Day Event at Boxi Park
Monday, May 27, 2024
Boxi Park
Featuring food & drink specials, kids activities, and live music!
No cover, price of food and beverage varies
Memorial Day Community Ceremony
Monday, May 27, 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 Murph Challenge
Monday, May 27, 9am and 11am
Lake Nona YMCA Family Center
9055 Northlake Parkway, Orlando, FL 32827
Join YMCA's Murph Challenge this Memorial Day to honor fallen heroes with a rigorous workout of 1-mile run, 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 squats, and another 1-mile run.
FREE
Memorial Day at Sanford
Monday, May 27, 9am-12pm
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.
Stars, Stripes, and Splashes: Memorial Day Pool Party
Monday, May 27, 12-7pm
Courtyard by Marriott Titusville Kennedy Space Center
6245 Riverfront Center Boulevard, Titusville, FL 32780
Indulge in classic American favorites with meal tickets for mouthwatering hot dogs or juicy hamburgers, served alongside chips and a choice of soft drink. Lounge poolside, enjoy our family-friendly splash zone, and soak up the sun. While admission doesn't include alcoholic beverages, the Pool Bar will be open from 12-7pm, ready to quench your thirst with drinks available for purchase.
$30
Memorial Day Skate
Monday, May 27, 1-4pm
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
Books on Tap
Monday, May 27, 5-7pm
Crooked Can Brewing Company
426 W Plant St, Winter Garden, FL 34787
Book fair fun – now with your favorite beer! Crooked Can & Writer's Block Bookstore have taken the traditional book fairs and transformed them into adult book fairs. Shop your favorite books, best sellers, new releases, and more with friends and family while enjoying your favorite beers.
FREE
Feature image credit: Orlando World Center Marriott