Orlando Nightlife

There's much more to Orlando than Mickey Mouse and amusement parks. While this Central Florida destination used to have a reputation as just a place for families, this is a thing of the past. Orlando today is home to large variety of restaurants, nightlife, live music venues, and festivals that attract young people from far and wide who want to blow off a little steam. Instead of waking up early, you could be staying up late in Orlando. Keep reading to find out the basics about Orlando nightlife.

Universal CityWalk

One of the best places for Orlando nightlife is located at Universal Studios. CityWalk is home to restaurants, bars, movie theaters, and dance clubs all in one convenient location. This nightlife complex is an attraction not only for out of town visitors, but for Orlando locals too. Here you will find restaurants including the Hard Rock and Emeril's along with bars such as Margaritaville and Pat O'Brien's . Part of the appeal of CityWalk is the fact that everything is in one place. You can go from dinner right to dancing without having to jump in a taxi.

Downtown Disney

Another center of Orlando nightlife is Downtown Disney. There is entertainment here for every mood. On the night where you just want to see a movie, head over to the 24-screen AMC movie theater . When you feel like splurging on a meal, check out Bongos Cuban Cafe or Raglan Road Irish Pub . Beyond food and movies, there are also many places for drinking and dancing the night away.

Here you can attend a concert at the House of Blues or a show at Cirque du Soleil . Downtown Disney is divided into three sections, and if you're looking for the rowdy nightlife, head right to Pleasure Island. Nightlife options here include Paradiso 37 , Orlando Harley-Davidson , and Curl by Sammy Duval . There are also many festivals and events that take place at Downtown Disney; you never know what you're going to find on any given night.

Downtown Orlando

Beyond the theme parks, Orlando itself is also home to a variety of nightlife. While bars, restaurants, and clubs aren't as concentrated as they are in CityWalk or Downtown Disney, there are still some great, affordable options. Church Street is one popular destination, with top places being Latitudes , Big Belly , and Chillers . Expect to find cheaper prices and value for drinks when you get away from the resort areas.

More Nightlife Options

Orlando is also home to some nightlife that you might not expect. Feel like live music? Be sure to check out B.B. King Blues Club . When the craving for sports bars hits, check out Cheers Sports Bar or Lucky Leprechaun Irish Pub . Travelers that love piano bars will want to visit Howl at the Moon while those looking for a strong cocktail might want to sample a few options at Margaritaville.

From comedy shows to billiards halls, Orlando has every type of nightlife you could imagine. Sometimes the best nighttime entertainment can be found right in your Orlando vacation rental. After an active day, nothing might sound better than curling up in your cozy rental and watching a movie. The perfect night in Orlando can take many forms, from ordering a pizza and eating dinner in your pajamas to putting on your best outfit and hitting the nightclubs. The choice is up to you.