Florida is well known as a superb vacation destination, with a genuinely astonishing variety of sights, experiences, and locations to see, do, and explore. Orlando is one of the most famous spots in the state, famous as the home of the Magic Kingdom of Disney, the Happiest Place on Earth.
But Orlando isn’t just for kids and families. Away from the bright lights of the amusement parks, there are a wealth of alternative and romantic options that make it a wonderful vacation option for couples. So if you are looking forward to a Tampa cruise with your partner and fancy doing something special beforehand, read on, and discover a few of the best things to do for couples in and around Orlando.
Enjoy a day at the beach
Orlando is perfectly positioned to take advantage of some of the most underrated (and therefore off-the-beaten-track, tranquil, and exclusive) beaches in Florida. New Smyrna Beach is the closest to Orlando, with a picturesque coastline and an iconic lighthouse. A little further away, Daytona Beach might be best known for Nascar, but the sand and surf here is pretty special too, and the perfect place to wile away some time with your loved one.
Take in the sunset at Winter Park
Winter Park is one of Orlando’s trendiest and most alternative neighborhoods, and the Winter Park Lakes include some of the most romantic spots in the city. Take a kayak tour at sunset, or try a stand-up paddleboard tour during the full moon for a truly magical experience.
Enjoy old-school fun at ICON Park
The heart of Orlando, ICON Park boasts all the fun of the fair and is a great place to indulge in a little retro theme park romance. Ride the giant wheel (you can even rent a capsule all to yourself with champagne included!), try the Orlando Starflyer, the city’s tallest swing ride, or grab dinner at one of the many excellent restaurants in the park.
Experience fun at Pointe Orlando
In just a 2-minute drive from Disney, Pointe Orlando is a perfect place if you want to enjoy shopping, dining, nightlife, and entertainment in one place. If you want to just chill in the afternoon with your partner, you must try their restaurants that offer Orlando happy hour every 3pm-6pm where you can enjoy cocktails at half of its price.
Eat al fresco at Eola Park
Sometimes the most romantic thing you can do is grab a picnic with your beau, and enjoy the fresh air and natural beauty of a city park. Eola Park is a delightful spot, one of Orlando’s oldest parks, and the lawns in front of the lake make an amazing picnic location.
Swim with manatees at Crystal River
About an hour’s drive from the center of town, Crystal River is the heart of Florida’s natural spring country, and one of the best places in the world to see manatees. Swimming with these gentle, charmingly ugly water creatures is an amazing experience, and one of the best things you can do as a couple near Orlando.
