Orlando: What to do Other Than Disney

Orlando, Florida, is a city brimming with laid-back culture and carefree experiences that are the essence of a summer vacation, all year round! No matter what you're looking to enjoy here, be it a fun day out at a theme park, or an upscale dining experience like no other, there's a great range of things to see and do in Orlando.

No matter what you want your trip to look like, here are some of the city's best hotels, restaurants, and activities for you to enjoy.

Best Hotels in Orlando

Orlando has a great range of hotels and resorts, both in the city and on the outskirts for those looking for a more secluded retreat. Whether you plan on renting a car and staying at a spacious resort with multiple restaurants, resorts and pools and facilities, or a gorgeous boutique hotel right in the heart of the city, you're sure to find the perfect hotel for your stay in Orlando.

From sleek downtown spots catering to business and leisure travelers alike, to upscale stylish retreats with stunning views, every visitor will be able to find the perfect place to stay in this lively, fun-filled city.

Lake Nona Wave Hotel, Lake Nona Region, Orlando

Located in Southern Orlando, this gorgeous 4-star hotel sits between Lake Nona and Lake Hart. It is located just 14 miles from Florida Mall, and 15 miles from SeaWorld's Discovery Cove, making it a great choice for families and groups of friends looking to enjoy their vacation either on-site at the hotel, or with a rental car, thanks to the availability of on-site parking.

One of the most high-tech and innovative hotels in the area, Lake Nona Wave Hotel prides itself on having some of the most tech-savvy designs both in the rooms and in the communal areas. From the Technogym-powered fitness center to a robot waiter at the on-site Michelin Bacán restaurant (which serves up fabulous American Caribbean and Mediterranean cuisine), there's plenty of innovation here. There is also a variety of other on-site amenities, including swimming pools, a gorgeous sculpture garden, and even a nightclub!

Lake Nona Wave Hotel is home to 234 rooms, each with state-of-the-art tech additions such as digital connectivity, voice and app-enabled controls, “smart” windows that dynamically tint to block 99% of UV light, and comfy Bryte sleep technology beds. There are also the expected amenities too, such as air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi.

Ritz Carlton Grande Lakes, Orlando

Situated within a 500-acre nature reserve, the Ritz Carlton Grande Lakes feels like a true escape, but you'll be pleasantly surprised to learn that despite the secluded feeling of this resort it's still within 10 miles of some of Orlando's best attractions, including SeaWorld and the Universal Orlando Resort.

The architecture of this stunning resort is heavily inspired by Italy’s grand palazzos, and the interior boasts a range of lavish amenities including a 3,700sq metre spa, 18-hole Greg Normal-designed golf course, tennis courts, and three pools. There is also an on-site kids club if you're traveling with little ones. This resort is one of the best in Orlando for foodies, thanks to it's incredible 10 on-site dining options, including the Michelin-starred steak and seafood spot Knife & Spoon; creative menu and cocktail classes at Highball & Harvest; and the outstanding salads and smoothies at Vitale spa café. Guests can also grab a bite to eat at The Lobby Lounge, which provides gorgeous sunset views over afternoon tea or evening cocktails.

This 582-room hotel boasts a 65-inch satellite HD LCD smart TV in every room, alongside free bottled water and an iPod docking station. If you'd like an upgrade, some select rooms also offer a private furnished balcony, that provides stunning views.

The Alfond Inn, Winter Park, Orlando

Located in the snazzy suburb of Winter Park, this refined, artistic hotel is just a short walk from the upscale Park Avenue, a shopping and dining haven! With an excellent central location, this hotel is right on the doorstep of many great attractions, including The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, Winter Park Country Club (a public golf course), and Harry P Leu Gardens.

The Alfond Inn boasts a gorgeous, contemporary design, and many great amenities, including a serene rooftop pool, fitness centre, business centre, laundry facilities, 24-hour front desk, and a daily maid service. It is also home to the award-winning Hamilton's Kitchen restaurant, which serves up delicious, southern-style cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as fabulous weekend brunches.

With just 112 rooms, this is definitely a 'boutique' hotel by Orlando's standards, and each room provides guests with gorgeous contemporary décor, free Wi-Fi, a refrigerator and coffee-making facilities, as well as an iPod docking station, and cable TV.

Rosen Shingle Creek Resort, Universal Boulevard, Orlando

Located just off the tourist-centric International Drive, guests can enjoy a quaint respite at the expansive, 230-acre Rosen Shingle Creek.

With glorious, Spanish revival architecture and old-fashioned charm, this wonderful resort has everything to offer. The range of gourmet dining options includes the outstanding steakhouse, A Land Remembered; Italian food at Cala Bella; deli-style meals at 18 Monroe Street Market; and coffee and pastries at Smooth Java Coffee Bar. This gorgeous resort is also home to a great range of amenities and facilities, including four outdoor pools, a top-rated golf course, a golf academy, a full-service spa (featuring a hot tub and sauna), tennis courts, and even wildlife trails!

This huge resort is home to 1,501 beautiful rooms, each with a 40-inch flat-screen TV, refrigerator, and coffee-making facilities.

Grand Bohemian Hotel, Central Business District, Orlando

Grand Bohemian is a must-stay spot for anyone looking to stay in Downtown central Orlando. Towering over the city, a stay at the Grand Bohemian is like staying in an art gallery thanks to its multiple beautiful artworks and elegant interior.

The hotel boasts a gorgeous rooftop swimming pool with panoramic views of the city and a relaxing sundeck with a whirlpool. There is an on-site fitness center with cardio equipment and weights, a spa, an extensive art collection to view, and two fabulous dining options. Guests can enjoy fine dining at the gourmet restaurant The Boheme, or relax with a drink in hand at the swanky Bosendorfer Lounge, where you can enjoy live entertainment or a special jazz brunch on Sundays.

With a selection of gorgeous rooms with velvet touches, these luxurious guest rooms feature 37-inch flat-screen TVs, and stunning, upscale decor.

Best Restaurants in Orlando

The dining scene in Orlando is truly a vibrant mix! With innovative dishes and both national and international cuisine taking center stage at some of the city's best establishments, visitors can find themselves indulging in a great range of food at both well-established and lively new restaurants.

Whether you're looking to dine on something new and adventurous, or hoping to try the best of the best when it comes to your favorite comfort food, there's a culinary experience for everyone's palette in Orlando.

AVA MediterrAegean, Winter Park, Orlando

Located in the gorgeous suburb of Winter Park on the outskirts of Orlando, AVA MediterrAegean is a cozy, yet upscale restaurant that offers a multi-sensory ambiance, focusing on group dining and sharing the experience with friends.

This amazing restaurant is known for its creative, shareable dishes and weekend brunches (Friday through Sunday). Be sure to try some of the most popular menu options, including the honey-glazed halloumi cheese, Greek Omelette with bell pepper, spinach, onion, and feta cheese, and the waffle and Greek honey with yogurt and berries.

Many of the magnificent dishes here pair very well with some of the establishment's bespoke cocktails, such as Smoke and Bitters, made from a great range of ingredients, including Alfred Giraud Heritage French Whiskey, 12 years aged WhistlePig, Demerara, and black walnut bitters.

Kabooki Sushi, North East Orlando

Kabooki Sushi is a hip and fun restaurant that offers all the traditional and classic sushi dishes one would expect from a great Sushi spot, with an exceptional à la carte menu.

If you're looking for a restaurant where you can celebrate a special occasion though, this is it - The chef-selected 10 to 15-course omakase experience provides an unbeatable culinary adventure. No matter which you choose though, be sure not to get too full, as the house-made desserts here are next level. Be sure to try the cheesecake!

The Monroe, Callahan, Orlando

The Monroe is a stylish, yet quirky spot. A cross between a stylish lounge, elegant semi-private dining room, coffee shop, and cocktail bar, The Monroe does it all. With several multi-use spaces, you can visit multiple times and have a completely different experience (but all with exceptional standards of service).

The menu boasts modern twists on some classic comfort foods, including fried chicken, St. Louis-style ribs, and pork schnitzel.

Bombay Street Kitchen, Sky Lake, Orlando

If you're looking for the best spot in town for Indian food, then Bombay Street Kitchen may well be it! A two-time Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient, this restaurant serves up some truly outstanding street food and boasts a menu exploring a whole world of flavors and textures.

Dishes are taken from traditional street foods found in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, and more, with everything from Bhature to Dosas, there's something for every taste on the menu.

Se7en Bites, North East Orlando

Located in the North Eastern area of Orlando is the amazing Se7en Bites. This restaurant/bakery hybrid is a fan-favorite amongst locals and visitors alike and has been featured on TV, including the popular Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives with Guy Fieri.

Se7en Bites grew in popularity thanks to its exceptional nostalgic Southern comfort food with a modern twist. Be sure to try the Vanilla Bean Bourbon Bacon Nightime SkPie or the Chicken Pot Pie. Be sure to get there early though, as both of these run out almost every day!

Best Things to do in Orlando

Of course, when visiting Orlando, the first things that come to mind are Disney and Universal, but there's actually so much more to do than that! This sunny city offers an excellent and diverse range of activities, from enjoying thrilling rides and marine life, to taking a gentle boat ride around historical architecture.

Visitors can immerse themselves freely in the city's laid back and fun-loving culture through scenic parks, live music and some of Florida's best attractions.

SeaWorld Orlando

One of Orlando's best attractions is this stunning theme park, filled with coasters themed around marine life and animal exhibits and encounters. It makes the perfect spot for a family day out, and even has a Sesame Street-themed area for the little ones to enjoy!

Guests can enjoy thrilling rollercoasters, such as the Ice Breaker which features four launches, including a reverse launch into a beyond-vertical drop! And jaw-dropping exhibits including up-close encounters with dolphins and sharks! Plenty of animals here put on exhilarating shows and guests can take the opportunity to learn about their natural habitats and behaviours.

Winter Park Farmers Market, Winter Park, Orlando

Located at Central Park West Meadow in the area of Winter Park, you can find the Winter Park Farmer's Market every Saturday, where local vendors and artisans set up their stores to sell all kinds of unique and yummy items.

It's a great spot to visit if you have a Saturday morning spare, as it is open only between 8 am and 1 pm. There's a great range of vendors that set up their stalls here, ranging in style, and offering everything from lemonade and beef jerky, to some truly unique options. Its a great place to visit if you're looking for some tasty treats to take home with you.

Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour, Winter Park, Orlando

Head up north of the city of Orlando to the quaint area of Winter Park, and embark on an amazing Boat Tour to explore the area's lakes and byways. 

A great experience for those interested in history and architecture, visitors can float down the waterways to see some of the area's historical homes and Floridian wildlife. The boat tour lasts for around an hour, and guests can even bring aboard their own food and drink, making it a lovely and relaxing way to experience a picnic. Pair this with a trip to the aforementioned farmers market and take your produce with you so you can snack on the water!

Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando

Located in the central business district, the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is the go-to spot in Orlando City for lovers of live music. Visitors can see an abundance of great Broadway shows here (such as Hamilton), as well as family entertainment and movie nights.

Whether it's movies, music, or musical theatre you love, there's something for everyone here. If you're interested in a truly unique experience though, you can even see movies in conjunction with the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, who play the score live while visitors watch the movie.

The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is also the home of the Orlando Ballet, which performs throughout the year. Be sure to see the Nutcracker if you're visiting during Christmas time!

Lake Eola Park, Orlando

Lake Eola (and of course, Lake Eola Park) is one of the best locations to experience the essence of Florida right in the heart of downtown Orlando. The perfect place for taking a relaxing stroll around the lake and enjoying the picturesque views of the downtown skyline.

You can rent swan-shaped paddleboats if you'd like to get out on the water with the real swans or visit The Walt Disney Amphitheater, an arena hosting live concerts, movies, and performances.