A record 68 million people visited Orlando in 2016. Tourists from all over the United States come to Orlando to visit theme parks, relax on the gorgeous beaches and play golf at the world-class courses.
While many come to the Sunshine State for family-friendly fun, some come to enjoy the nightlife. Orlando has a happening bar scene geared toward locals and tourists alike. If you enjoy alcohol, friends and fun, Orlando is the perfect destination.
What to Do in Orlando After Dark
Many tourists enjoy the CityWalk at Universal Orlando. Here, you can find restaurants and entertainment. You can watch live shows, see the Blue Man Group, play mini-golf and even go shopping. There is even a club with music played by celebrity DJs.
Disney World also has nightlife. Downtown Disney is home to shopping, dining and entertainment. You can also watch the Epcot fireworks show every night at 9 p.m.
If you want to escape the tourist scene, though, there are many lounges and bars in the area so you can relax. Downtown, you can find three clubs in one building. Chillers, Latitudes and the Big Belly Brewery offer a casual atmosphere for young adults.
Wall Street Plaza is another place to consider if you enjoy bar-hopping. Here, you’ll find eight bars. Loaded Hogs and One Eyed Jacks are both party bars. Globe is a European cafe, Waitiki is a Tiki lounge and Slingapours is a dance club. The Monkey Bar is a martini bar and Tuk Tuk Room offers sushi and cocktails. Many people flock to Wall Street Cantina for their margaritas.
Bullitt Bar is a newer bar downtown. What makes it unique is that it features a rock and roll theme, so consider hanging out there if pop and dance music isn’t your thing.
Don’t overlook the hotels. Even the locals hang out at the lounges in the most popular hotels. Rix, located at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, is surprisingly sophisticated and un-Disney-like. Here, you can find signature drinks and gourmet appetizers. in a trendy Mediterranean-inspired setting. Disney’s Grand Floridian has a band and pianist in the lobby. At Disney’s Contemporary Resort, you’ll find Outer Rim, a trendy nightspot. After dark, you’ll find karaoke at Kimonos, a sushi bar in the Walt Disney World Swan.
At the Hard Rock Hotel, you can enjoy cocktails in the Velvet Lounge while enjoying the ambience of music and rock and roll memorabilia. At Gaylord Palms, you can relax at Auggie’s Jammin’ Piano Bar and hear live music every night at 9 p.m.
If you’re looking for something different from the average dance club scene, consider one of these options:
- At Disney’s BoardWalk, you can indulge in some people-watching in a midway atmosphere. You can enjoy a nice stroll with friends and family. On most nights, you can watch street performers sing and dance—and even perform magic tricks and juggle—outdoors on the promenade.
- Atlantic Dance is a hot spot for business travelers. This club—open to everyone 21 and older—features ’80s dance hits and Top 40 music from Tuesday through Saturday. It’s open until 2 a.m. and best of all, there’s no cover charge.
- If you’re more into cowboys and the western atmosphere, head on over to Jellyrolls, which is a club that’s reminiscent of a rustic saloon. There, you’ll find dueling pianos. There’s always a boisterous crowd and it’s very busy on weekends. You must be 21 or older to enjoy this bar, which is open until 2 a.m.
Drinking and Getting Home Safely
It’s important to stay safe when drinking in public so your night out doesn’t end up in the emergency room—or jail. A good way to avoid getting overly drunk is to eat and drink water while enjoying your alcohol. Don’t down your drinks; sip them slowly and enjoy them. Keep your drink with you at all times. Be aware of how much you are drinking. Avoid engaging in drinking games.
Do not attempt to drive home after a night of drinking. Get a ride from a sober friend or a taxi. You can also use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. There is no excuse to drive drunk.
Have You Been Charged With a DUI in Orlando?
Did your night out in Orlando lead to a DUI charge? The Orlando criminal defense lawyers from Moses & Rooth, Attorneys at Law can help. A DUI conviction can affect many aspects of your life for years. We can assess the details of your case and help formulate a solid defense. Give our office a call today at (407) 377-0150.
CC Image by Ricardo’s Photography at Flickr.