5 Places to Party in Orlando
Sure Orlando is known as a kids' vacation spot with its array of world-famous theme parks, but there is also plenty of fun for the grown-ups long after tired tots are tucked in. From Downtown Disney to downtown Orlando, pubs, clubs and speakeasies are serving up drink specials, innovative cocktails and live entertainment late into the night. Here are 5 entertainment districts perfect for spending a night of bar-hopping fun. (From Uber to $2 trolleys and convenient cabs, rides are plentiful when your night is done.)
Universal CityWalk
Just outside Universal's two theme parks, you’ll find CityWalk, with a fun mix of clubs and restaurants such as Hard Rock Live, Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, Red Coconut and the groove. Take karoake to the max at Rising Star, where you can perform with your own band and back-up singers. Or, chill out on the patio with a hurricane at the famous New Orleans flagship, Pat O'Brien's, or enjoy the lively show of dueling piano players inside. CityWalk is open 11 am-2 am. No admission fee, but cover charges apply. Parking free for Florida residents after 6 pm.
Downtown Orlando
It’s a bar hopper’s paradise located in several square blocks off Orange Avenue. Church Street and Wall Street are popular areas where streets are blocked off for foot-traffic only. You’ll find everything from casual bars and local pubs to upscale wine bars and roof-top dance clubs. The Courtesy and Hanson's Shoe Repair are two speakeasies popular among locals for their craft cocktails. Corona's Cigars offers high-end cigars along with aged spirits, Ember features a laid-back outdoor patio, and the Amway Center's rooftop bar one80 presents panoramic views of the skyline.
Disney’s Boardwalk
This boardwalk created in the theme of Atlantic City’s famous stretch offers a sports bar, piano sing-along bar and dance club, as well as numerous restaurants and shops. It's a popular spot for dinner or a post-park hangout when Epcot closes at 9:30 pm. Watch the big game at ESPN Zone over a beer or listen to the lively dueling piano players at Jelly Rolls—they seem to know every single song ever played. Admission to the boardwalk is free but bar cover charges apply; open till 2 am.
Downtown Disney
Party the night away on the West Side, where House of Blues and Bongos Cuban Café offer live music and signature drinks, or chill out on the patio with a pint of Guinness at Raglan Road Irish Pub. Admission to Downtown Disney is free but bar cover charges apply; open till 2 am.
International Drive
This stretch between Universal and SeaWorld is a hub for nightlife and entertainment. Find dinner shows, game centers, night clubs or relaxed pubs. Use Pointe Orlando as your homebase and begin with an entertaining dinner at Taverna Opa or BB Kings. Just up the road are several more fun options. At ICEBAR, even the glasses and barstools are made of ice. Howl at the Moon is home to entertaining dueling pianos and King's offers the adults plenty of games from bowling to bocce.
