Orlando is well known for being family friendly with popular tourist destinations like Disney World, Universal Studios and Sea World. For the locals, these places are fun to go to every now and then, but they aren’t a place to regularly visit on the weekends. Locals know the city as a culturally eclectic area where there’s always something to do. Floridians know that the heart of the city exists in its downtown area, and that special moments between Orlando romantics be spent at better places than Cinderella’s castle. 

Park Ave

Located just a few minutes north of Orlando in Winter Park, Park Ave features lavish restaurants, shops, and museums in a New England style community. You can easily walk the area, especially in the cooler fall months, and there are plenty of attractions around to inspire you. The area also features events throughout the year, including a fashion week, Christmas tree lighting ceremony, and several art festivals. If you’re planning a date, but don’t want to commit to one specific location, Park Ave is the perfect spot to roam around and see where the night takes you.

Leu Gardens

Minutes from downtown, Leu Gardens is a gorgeous, 50-acre oasis that’s perfect for a new couple or for those who want to rekindle a long-term romance. For only $7 for a day pass, the gardens offer a relaxing atmosphere with a beautiful backdrop. Leu Gardens is the perfect spot for a romantic stroll, or to take advantage of one of the many events the gardens offer. Special events are held throughout the year, including a Date Night, which features an outdoor movie right in the gardens. The Jazz and Blues Stroll is a great event to pack a picnic for while enjoying live jazz music under the stars. Whether there is an event going on or you are just there for a scenic walk, Leu Gardens is a picturesque place to spend with someone special.

Lake Eola

At the heart of downtown Orlando is Lake Eola, a serene area to take a long walk, have a picnic, or take a ride on a swan shaped paddleboat. Close to the downtown bars, the lake is also a calming place to relax after a night out. Many residents use the surrounding sidewalk for exercise or to walk their pets, so there is always an abundance of energy around. Within the area, you can feed the ducks and swans, take a ride on an electric gondola, or see a play at the nearby amphitheater. Lake Eola is the epitome of Orlando residential life at its best.

So if you are a local, or a tourist looking for something more intimate than a theme park, these beautiful spots can offer you a romantic date you may not be able to get anywhere else.