Because the Theme Park Capital of the World, Orlando is the place you go to unleash your interior youngster. The Central Florida metropolis homes over eighteen totally different theme parks, together with Common Studios Florida, SeaWorld, and Walt Disney World Resort, which hosts one among our favourite annual homosexual get together, One Magical Weekend.
However Orlando isn’t nearly theme parks. It’s additionally a spot of nice pure magnificence. When taking a look at a map of Orlando, you’d be forgiven for pondering somebody had spilled a glass of water on it as a result of spectacular 100 lakes discovered throughout the metropolis limits, with Lake Eola being essentially the most famously photogenic. There are various pure parks inside simple attain, good for climbing and any method of outside actions to reconnect with Mom Nature. Orlando additionally has its personal points of interest like Icon Park and GatorLand.
Lastly, regardless of the tragedy of the Pulse taking pictures on June twelfth, 2016, Orlando has a thriving and welcoming LGBTQ+ scene. So, even when your main motive for visiting is a few high quality time together with your interior youngster – or simply to get together at One Magical Weekend – you must get to know the town of Orlando itself. You received’t be disillusioned!
Desk of Contents
1. Basic Suggestions
2. Transportation & Airport Switch
3. Homosexual Inns in Orlando
4. Sightseeing & Actions in Orlando
5. Eating places & Cafes
6. Orlando Homosexual Bars and Golf equipment
7. Orlando Homosexual Saunas & Cruising Bars
8. Homosexual Occasions in Orlando
9. Day Journeys from Orlando
Basic Suggestions
Orlando has no particular gayborhood, but it surely has homosexual bars, cafés, and golf equipment scattered throughout the town. That stated, Thornton Park and the Milk District are definitely favorites among the many LGBTQ+ group. Regardless of regrettable again steps inside Florida as a complete, Orlando stays a really LGBTQ+-friendly metropolis, and you’re extremely unlikely to run into something apart from welcoming vibes.
The very best time to go to Orlando is, like loads of locations, in the course of the shoulder seasons of March/April/Could and September/October. That approach, you get good climate that isn’t swelteringly sizzling and fewer summer time crowds. Keep away from the varsity vacation season, particularly because the theme parks attract large crowds throughout that point, which means lengthy queues. Orlando celebrates its Satisfaction in October, which is, in fact, superb, however you’ll want to ebook lodging properly upfront.
Orlando is pricey typically; nonetheless, you may minimize prices significantly by reserving into a series resort or hostel. Guests who intend to go to a number of points of interest – and why wouldn’t you – may also take into account investing within the Orlando Explorer Move, which may be custom-made to incorporate the points of interest you propose to go to and may prevent as much as 35% on entrance charges.
Transportation & Airport Switch
Attending to downtown from Orlando Worldwide Airport (MCO) is a breeze. The airport is positioned about 18 kilometers (11 miles) from downtown and gives a number of handy choices. The Lynx bus service (routes 11 and 51) is a cost-effective selection, with one-way fares of simply $2, taking round 40 minutes. For a faster choice, hop on the airport shuttle or seize a taxi, which prices about $35 to $45 and takes roughly 25 minutes. Trip-sharing providers like Uber and Lyft are additionally available.
Orlando’s public transportation is intensive and user-friendly, with the Lynx bus system overlaying the town and surrounding areas. The I-Trip Trolley is one other comparatively low cost option to get across the Worldwide Drive space, with tickets costing solely $2 for a single trip, $5 for a day move, $7 for a three-day move, and $9 for a five-day move. It operates between 8 a.m. and 10:30 p.m. and stops in any respect the most important points of interest. For these planning to discover additional in full freedom, renting a automotive is perhaps best, given the town’s spread-out points of interest. Nevertheless, keep in mind that parking across the theme parks may be fairly difficult and may price round $25 for the day. Taxis additionally enhance their costs for drop-offs there.
Homosexual Inns in Orlando
There are not any official homosexual resorts/resorts for the reason that legendary Parliament Home closed its doorways just a few years in the past, however nearly all resorts are gay-friendly.
Luxurious
Grand Bohemian Resort – This downtown resort oozes sophistication, evident from the second you move into the welcoming foyer with its vaulted ceilings and Italian mosaics. This creative aptitude runs all through the resort, from its on-site gallery to its award-winning restaurant, the place jazz performances present the temper to go together with your meal. They’ve a classy cocktail lounge, a spa, a rooftop pool with panoramic views, a whirlpool, and a health middle. The luxurious rooms function plush bedding, velvet drapes, marble bogs, and beautiful metropolis views. As you may think about, none of this comes low cost, and the lowest-cost rooms begin at round $300 an evening.
Hyatt Regency Orlando – Situated on Worldwide Drive, the Hyatt Regency is a newly renovated, luxurious gay-friendly resort subsequent to the Orlando Conference Middle and never removed from ICON Park and Common Studios. It’s large, and the spotlight of the resort is the big palm tree-lined out of doors swimming pools – one on the roof and the opposite downstairs with waterfalls, a waterslide, and splendid cabanas. Different facilities embody a 24-hour health club, a fully-equipped spa, and 4 eating places, starting from informal bites to superb eating experiences. The rooms are spacious and splendid, with the most cost effective rooms going for $250 – $300 an evening.
Mid-Vary
Sheraton Lake Buena Vista – The official resort for One Magical Weekend, is well-chosen because it gives the complete, luxurious Orlando expertise. The resort options two expansive out of doors swimming pools (the place the Remedy Pool Events happen), full with a waterslide and poolside cabanas. In addition they have a rejuvenation spa, a 24/7 state-of-the-art health middle, a volleyball courtroom, a video games room, an onsite comfort retailer, and two eating places. Sheraton Lake is completely positioned only a ten-minute drive from Walt Disney World Resort, and shuttle buses run on to all the large theme parks. The rooms are spacious and homely, with the most cost effective costing round $150 an evening.
Aloft Orlando Downtown – Alternatively, for these wanting to remain proper in downtown Orlando, this hip resort is a good choice and is close to many massive points of interest and LGBTQ+ bars. The stylish, loft-inspired rooms boast plush platform beds, walk-in showers, and customized facilities by Bliss Spa. Facility-wise, they’ve a vigorous cocktail bar, a useful 24-hour pantry, a “re” zone with snacks, a “re SM Lounge” to socialize in, a health club, and an out of doors pool with beautiful metropolis views. Rooms price round $200 an evening.
The Delaney Resort – Additionally in downtown Orlando close to the nightlife hotspots, the Delaney Resort describes itself as ‘a respite from the unusual’ – an apt description for the boutique luxurious resort, which has fashionable artwork bedecked on all its partitions. The rooms really feel ultra-modern with plush bedding, streaming tablets, rest room mirrors with built-in clocks, and rainfall showers. The resort restaurant/bar Delaney’s Tavern is a specific spotlight famend for its artistic connoisseur delicacies and vibrant ambiance. Rooms begin at round $175 an evening.
Price range
Orlando Palms – A four-star resort at funds costs (round $75 an evening)! The one catch is it is slightly additional out of the middle – close to Florida Mall – however nothing a brief taxi trip can’t deal with. The rooms are fashionable and spacious, if simplistic. There is a health club and a fairly sized out of doors pool.
Rosen Inn Closest to Common – One other good funds choice is discovered with the Rosen Inn chain, particularly for these whose focus is seeing the Common theme parks, because it’s positioned only a brief stroll from Common Orlando Resort and close to Worldwide Drive. The snug rooms are properly stocked with microwaves and mini-fridges. There’s additionally a health club, an out of doors pool, and the somewhat enjoyable addition of a video arcade sport room. The on-site restaurant, The Palms Eating Room, gives scrumptious breakfast buffets, and the Worldwide Pub is a spot to loosen up and drink. There are additionally two different Rosen Inns close by: Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista and Rosen Inn Worldwide Close to the Park, which provide an identical customary at funds costs however are nearer to totally different points of interest. Rooms go for round $50 – $100 an evening.
Sightseeing & Actions in Orlando
Walt Disney World Resort – To state the plain, no go to to Orlando is full with out experiencing slightly Walt Disney magic. The resort encompasses 4 unimaginable theme parks: Magic Kingdom, the place you’ll discover well-known rides like House Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean in addition to points of interest like the long-lasting Cinderella Fortress; Epcot, with points of interest that commemorate human achievement with futuristic expertise and world cultures; Disney’s Hollywood Studios, with a film theme containing rides like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge; and Disney’s Animal Kingdom, a mix of nature and journey that includes unique animals and the awe-inspiring Pandora – The World of Avatar. Ebook tour →
Common Orlando Resort – It’s a galvanizing debate on whether or not Common or Disney wins in relation to theme parks, so that you’ll must go to each and make up your personal thoughts. The resort options three superb theme parks: Common Studios Florida, the place company can step into their favourite motion pictures and TV exhibits with points of interest like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley; Common’s Islands of Journey, house to thrilling rides and immersive lands comparable to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade and Marvel Tremendous Hero Island; and Common’s Volcano Bay, a tropical-themed water park with thrilling slides and a soothing wave pool. Ebook tour →
Lake Eola Park – The park centered across the lovely Lake Eola is pure serenity. The lake itself is calming to have a look at with 5 of the six kinds of swans on the earth discovered gliding alongside it. The skyline view is beautiful with the normally blue sky reflecting fantastically off the glass buildings. The encompassing space encompasses a scenic strolling path, good for leisurely strolls or jogging, and guests can be a part of the swans on the lake through swan boat rides. The rainbow-colored Walt Disney Amphitheater can also be photogenic and hosts varied occasions and performances. Many numerous eating choices exist within the space, in addition to points of interest like a Chinese language pagoda and the Linton E. Allen Memorial Fountain, particularly beautiful when illuminated at night time. Ebook tour →
Worldwide Drive – Generally referred to as I-Drive, that is Orlando’s model of the Las Vegas Strip and is house to famend points of interest like Icon Park, that includes The Wheel, a 400-foot remark wheel providing breathtaking views of the town. Guests can even take pleasure in Madame Tussauds (just like the London waxworks museum), Sea Life Orlando Aquarium, and Ripley’s Consider It or Not! Museum (displaying oddities like shrunken human heads and uncommon animal skeletons). The drive is filled with eating places from everywhere in the world, quite a few retailers peddling Disney paraphernalia, and outlet malls. The Drive hums at night time with its fair proportion of bars and golf equipment, however they get ridiculously busy.
Lake Louisa State Park – This park is usually aptly described as a ‘pure theme park for these with an out of doors spirit.’ The park spans over 4,500 acres and options rolling hills, three large lakes, and thick forests ripe for exploration. Guests can take pleasure in quite a lot of actions comparable to climbing, biking, horseback using, and wildlife watching on the crisscrossing trails. The park’s lakes, together with Lake Louisa, supply alternatives for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Campsites and comfy cabins present an ideal setting for an in a single day keep.
Gatorland – Referred to as the “Alligator Capital of the World,” Gatorland gives guests the prospect to see 1000’s of alligators and crocodiles in a pure setting. Highlights embody the thrilling Gator Jumparoo Present, the place alligators leap for meals, and the Alligator Breeding Marsh, house to a whole bunch of alligators. Adventurous guests can benefit from the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line, hovering over alligator-infested waters, and the Stompin’ Gator Off-Highway Journey. With interactive reveals, a petting zoo, and alternatives to carry a child alligator, it’s an thrilling expertise for all ages. Ebook tour →
LEGOLAND – LEGO geeks rejoice! This theme park options over 50 rides, exhibits, and points of interest impressed by the favored LEGO model. Highlights embody Miniland USA, the place iconic American landmarks are recreated with hundreds of thousands of LEGO bricks, and LEGO Ninjago World, providing interactive ninja-themed adventures. The LEGOLAND Water Park supplies splashy enjoyable with water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. Ebook tour →
Discovery Cove – Voted the Greatest Theme Park in Orlando by USA As we speak, this immersive expertise is ideal for vacationers trying to work together with marine life in a lush, tropical setting. This all-inclusive day resort supplies the chance to swim with dolphins, snorkel amongst colourful fish and rays in The Grand Reef, and hand-feed unique birds within the free-flight aviary. Guests can loosen up on pristine seashores, float alongside a scenic lazy river, and revel in limitless entry to freshly ready meals and drinks all through the day. Ebook tour →
Kennedy House Middle – Situated about an hour east of Orlando, the Kennedy House Middle at Cape Canaveral gives an out-of-this-world expertise. Guests can be taught in regards to the Hubble House Telescope, see actual rockets, and revel in interactive reveals. The middle additionally options the Shuttle Launch Expertise and the House Shuttle Atlantis, making it a must-visit for house fans. Ebook tour →
Winter Park – The lakes and canals of the historic metropolis of Winter Park have led to its nickname, the self-proclaimed ‘Venice of America.’ Situated simply north of Orlando, guests can take a ship alongside its canals and lakes or discover the picturesque Park Avenue, lined with boutique retailers, connoisseur eating places, and artwork galleries. Ebook tour →
Pulse Memorial and Museum – A poignant and transferring tribute devoted to the victims and survivors of the Pulse nightclub tragedy of June 12, 2016. The memorial website, positioned on the former nightclub, serves as a spot of reflection and remembrance, that includes a tranquil backyard, lovely paintings, and tributes honoring the 49 lives misplaced. The adjoining museum, at present underneath improvement, will educate guests in regards to the occasions of that night time, the affect on the group, and the continued efforts to advertise love, acceptance, and unity. Ebook tour →
Eating places and Cafes in Orlando
Lazy Moon – This restaurant truly has three places throughout the town and is arms down one of the best pizza in Orlando. They declare that the pizzas are “so massive, you’ll want each arms to tame them,” and dimension – in relation to pizza – does certainly matter.
Hamburger Mary’s Bar & Grille – Situated on West Church Road, Hamburger Mary’s is as a lot in regards to the camp expertise as it’s in regards to the meals. Identified for its cabaret dinner exhibits and Broadway brunches, it’s a spot the place you may take pleasure in a Mary Burger or Fried Twinkies with a cocktail and a aspect of sass.
Chef Artwork Smith’s Homecomin’ – Located in Lake Buena Vista close to the Disney Parks, this Southern-style restaurant pays homage to Florida’s agricultural heritage with farm-to-table delicacies. Chef Artwork Smith, referred to as Oprah’s private chef, gives dishes like Fried Rooster & Doughnuts and Hummingbird Cake. Take pleasure in handcrafted moonshine cocktails on the breezy again porch for a real style of Southern consolation.
Quantum Leap Vineyard – Half LGBTQ+ owned, Quantum Leap Vineyard is a good retreat for wine and cider lovers. Tucked away on Wilfred Drive, it gives a wide array of wines from premier rising areas. Pair your wine with cheese, charcuterie, and chocolate, or take pleasure in choices from varied meals vans that frequent the vineyard.
Domu – Domu means “a dream come true,” and when you occur to dream of fantastic noodles, then yours will certainly come true when visiting right here. The restaurant is famend for scrumptious house-made noodles and inventive small plates with three places within the chain, essentially the most central being positioned in Orlando’s Mills 50 district. Order a Wasabi Ginger Margarita throughout completely satisfied hour if you need kick to begin the night time.
King Bao – Within the coronary heart of Mills 50, you’ll undoubtedly wish to get your arms on the king’s buns. Bao buns, that’s, that are full of creative components like firecracker shrimp and Korean beef. This hotspot additionally serves loaded tots and candy bao.
Orlando Homosexual Bars and Golf equipment
District Dive – A classy pop culture-themed bar simply subsequent to the membership Southern Nights, this native spot supplies a extra relaxed setting for socializing earlier than heading to the membership. District Dive options cozy, industrial-chic decor, an intensive drink menu, two pool tables, darts, a pinball machine, and a spacious patio.
Southern Nights Orlando – Situated within the coronary heart of downtown within the Milk District, Southern Nights is one among Orlando’s hottest LGBTQ+ golf equipment and gives loads of tacky enjoyable amongst a welcoming crowd. There’s a big dance ground, video bar, and out of doors space. Common occasions embody drag exhibits, burlesque exhibits, and themed nights.
Savoy Orlando – Present in Ivanhoe Village, Savoy Orlando is the second of the 2 massive homosexual golf equipment in Orlando. It doesn’t appear to be a lot from the surface, however as soon as inside, you’ll discover a multi-roomed membership with vigorous go-go dancers, drag exhibits, and DJs, in addition to a pool desk and an out of doors patio. On daily basis has a cheerful hour, and there’s by no means a canopy cost. So, how improper can you actually go?
Hank’s Bar – Hank’s is without doubt one of the oldest homosexual bars in Orlando and has that laid-back neighborhood homosexual bar really feel. It’s positioned on Edgewater Drive and has pleasant employees, inexpensive drinks, a pool desk, an old-school jukebox, and an out of doors patio in its favor.
Barcodes Orlando – An off-the-cuff homosexual bar catering to a mature crowd. Situated on Edgewater Drive, your common night time has a relaxed ambiance with pool tables, dartboards, and TVs. To spice it up a bit, although, they’ve drag race viewing events, an underwear-only night time on Sundays, and occasional kink nights catering to the pup group.
Stiffy’s Orlando – A part of the Southern Nights household, Stiffy’s is a cocktail bar that caters to the bear and leather-based group. It hosts themed nights with scantily clad male dancers, creating a singular and thrilling ambiance, and has common fetish occasions.
Orlando Homosexual Saunas & Cruising Bars
Membership Orlando – This bathhouse is simply as a lot enjoyable in the course of the day as it’s at night time. It’s positioned only a few minutes from downtown and has an out of doors heated swimming pool, leisure areas each inside and outdoors, a sizzling tub, whirlpool, dry sauna, a well-equipped health club, a number of darkish rooms, and a “man cave.” In addition they run particular occasions like pup and jock nights. A one-time membership is $14, and $23 with a locker.
Homosexual Occasions in Orlando
Come Out With Satisfaction Orlando – Orlando’s Satisfaction celebrations happen later within the Satisfaction season in October to coincide with Coming Out Day yearly. The centerpiece of the occasion is the Satisfaction Parade downtown, that includes colourful floats, marching bands, and varied group teams. The festivities afterward happen round Lake Eola Park with a number of phases showcasing high-energy performances by native and nationwide artists, drag exhibits, and DJ units. The night culminates with a spectacular fireworks show over Lake Eola. Dates: October 18 – 25, 2025.
One Magical Weekend – One of many world’s largest LGBTQ+ delight and music festivals! One Magical Weekend takes place at Walt Disney World Resort, together with pool events, themed events, and epic dance events…principally numerous superb events. Highlights embody their signature occasion Riptide at Disney’s Hurricane Lagoon Water Park, that includes one of the best worldwide DJs and the chance to benefit from the huge array of slides and water rides within the park between units. Dates: June 4 – 8, 2026.
Crimson Shirt Days/Homosexual Days – Since 1991, on the primary Saturday of June yearly, LGBTQ+ people maintain a “homosexual day” at Magic Kingdom the place members put on pink shirts to create a visual assertion of unity and help for LGBTQ+ rights. This occasion contains group rides, meet-ups, and photograph alternatives all through the park. Dates: June 7, 2026.
The Satisfaction Cup – Shattering the stereotype that gays don’t like sports activities, this occasion is an annual LGBTQ+ sports activities competitors organized by the KindRED Satisfaction Basis in early June. Individuals can compete in basketball, soccer, volleyball, pickleball, golf, kickball, and extra. Dates: 2026 to be introduced.
Love Is Common Nights – Common Studios additionally has its personal Satisfaction celebrations yearly to point out solidarity with the LGBTQ+ group. Held at Common Orlando Resort’s Crimson Coconut Membership each Thursday and Friday night via June, company can take pleasure in unique drinks, merchandise, camp reside leisure, and a DJ. Dates: Each Thursday and Firday in June, 2o26.
Annual Pulse Remembrance Ceremony – This ceremony honors the 49 lives misplaced within the Pulse nightclub taking pictures on June 12, 2016. Held on the Pulse Interim Memorial, the occasion is a poignant reminder of the tragedy and a celebration of the resilience of Orlando’s LGBTQ+ group. Dates: June 12 , 2o26.
Day Journeys from Orlando
Daytona Seaside – This well-known sandy stretch of seaside makes for an exquisite day journey. Apart from sunbathing and swimming, there’s Daytona Seaside Boardwalk and Pier with amusement rides, arcades, and cultural points of interest just like the Museum of Arts and Sciences and the historic Ponce Inlet Lighthouse. Town of Daytona can also be famend for motorsports, internet hosting the annual Daytona 500 on the Daytona Worldwide Speedway. Ebook tour →
Clearwater Seaside – These prepared to take an extended 106-mile drive west of Orlando can go to the perfection that’s Clearwater Seaside with its pristine white sands and clear turquoise waters. This seaside vacation spot is ideal for sunbathing, water sports activities, and beachside eating. Its different points of interest are the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and the long-lasting Pier 60, which gives every day sundown celebrations with avenue performers and distributors. Ebook tour →
St. Augustine – Only a two-hour drive from Orlando, St. Augustine is the oldest European-settled city within the U.S. It’s additionally named after the patron saint of brewers – do with that info what you’ll. The city has a cobblestoned Nationwide Historic Landmark District, the Castillo de San Marcos Nationwide Monument, its personal seashores, and quite a lot of retailers, eating places, and historic websites, making it worthy of a day go to. Ebook tour →
Mount Dora – This charming LGBTQ+-friendly lakeside city is lovingly referred to as Mount Adore by its residents and is famend for its quaint downtown, vintage retailers, tree-lined streets, cozy cafes, and historic structure. The city hosts a number of annual festivals, together with the Mount Dora Arts Pageant and the Mount Dora Craft Truthful, attracting artists and crafters from throughout the nation. Nature fans can take pleasure in boating, fishing, and scenic views at Lake Dora.
Featured picture by Eduardo Neri Du from Pixabay
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