Orlando Things to Do for Adults
Guide to the Orlando Area
Orlando Things to Do for Adults
Orlando is known around the world for its theme parks, but the region also offers a wide range of experiences designed for visitors who want something beyond the family attractions. From nature springs and lakeside trails to acclaimed restaurants, rooftop lounges, and cultural venues, there are countless Orlando things to do for adults who want to explore the city in a different way. With 55+ communities like Cresswind DeLand, Cresswind at Lake Harris, and Cresswind at Hammock Oaks, it is easy to enjoy calm, residential living with convenient access to many of Central Florida’s most enjoyable experiences.
Outdoor Escapes & Relaxing Nature Experiences
Wekiva Springs State Park
Many locals love spending time at Wekiva Springs State Park, where clear spring water, shaded trails, and easy kayak rentals create the perfect setting for a relaxing day outdoors. It is a calm escape from the busier areas of Orlando and an easy day trip from surrounding Central Florida communities.
Lake Eola Park & Downtown Strolls
In the heart of downtown, Lake Eola Park offers paved walking paths, swan boat rentals, and skyline views. Visitors often pair an afternoon stroll with coffee at a nearby café, a weekend farmers market, or an evening at one of downtown Orlando’s many restaurants and bars.
Discovery Cove Day Retreat
For a resort style experience, many people choose Discovery Cove, an all inclusive day resort with lagoons, lazy rivers, and optional animal encounters. With limited daily attendance and food and drinks included, it feels more like a private retreat than a traditional park visit, ideal for a relaxing escape with friends or a special occasion.
Arts, Culture & Charming Neighborhoods
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is a favorite destination for evenings out, hosting touring Broadway shows, concerts, comedy, and special events. Its downtown location makes it easy to plan dinner nearby before or after a performance.
Orlando Museum of Art & Mills 50
For a quieter afternoon, the Orlando Museum of Art and the nearby Mills 50 district offer galleries, murals, and creative local eateries. Visitors can explore rotating exhibits, then stop by a neighborhood coffee shop, wine bar, or restaurant.
Winter Park & Park Avenue
Just north of Orlando, Winter Park feels like a European inspired village with brick streets, lakes, and tree shaded parks. Park Avenue is lined with boutiques, wine bars, and cafés, and the Morse Museum of American Art showcases an impressive collection of Tiffany glass. It is an easy place to spend a day browsing, dining, and people watching.
Dining & Drinks for an Elevated Night Out
Fine Dining & Special Occasions
Orlando’s culinary scene has earned national attention, with several restaurants featured in the MICHELIN Guide. For a standout evening, consider Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort or Kadence in the Audubon Park area, both known for exceptional tasting menus and intimate atmospheres that feel perfect for anniversaries or milestone celebrations.
Casual Favorites & Local Gems
For more relaxed evenings, many residents head to neighborhood spots such as Domu for handmade ramen and creative cocktails or The Ravenous Pig in Winter Park, known for elevated, seasonal dishes and a welcoming atmosphere. For something sweet, The Glass Knife offers beautifully crafted desserts, pastries, and coffee in a stylish café setting that feels perfect for a relaxed date or an after-dinner treat.
Nightlife, Rooftops & Unique Experiences
Downtown Orlando & Rooftop Views
Downtown Orlando has an impressive mix of cocktail lounges, rooftop bars, and wine spots. Visitors enjoy skyline views and small plates at AC Sky Bar, and can easily walk to nearby restaurants, live music, and late night venues for a full evening in the city.
International Drive & Adults Focused Shows
Along International Drive, there are lounges, live music venues, and themed bars that feel distinctly different from the daytime park experience. Orlando nightlife on I Drive includes everything from casual sports bars to more upscale lounges, while Teatro Martini offers a cabaret style dinner show designed specifically for adults who want a fun, theatrical night out.
Why Active Adults Choose the Orlando Area
The Orlando area appeals to many active adults who want a balance of relaxed everyday living and convenient access to entertainment. With communities like Cresswind DeLand, Cresswind at Lake Harris, and Cresswind at Hammock Oaks, Kolter Homes offers 55+ neighborhoods that feel connected to Orlando while still feeling peaceful and residential.
- Year-round warm weather, ideal for golf, walking, and outdoor clubs
- Easy access to Orlando’s entertainment, shopping, and dining, without living in the center of tourist areas
- Nearby lakes, springs, and parks for boating, paddling, and nature escapes
- Access to major healthcare providers and everyday conveniences
- Planned 55+ communities with resort style amenities, lifestyle programming, and opportunities to connect with neighbors
If you are exploring Orlando things to do for adults and considering a move to Central Florida, Kolter Homes communities make it easy to enjoy both quiet days at home and spontaneous nights out in one of Florida’s most exciting regions.
Cresswind DeLand, DeLand, FL (55+)
A boutique 55+ community in DeLand, offering new homes, resort style amenities, and easy access to Orlando, area beaches, and charming downtown DeLand.
Cresswind at Lake Harris, Tavares, FL (55+)
A new active adult community in Lake County, located near the Harris Chain of Lakes, with resort inspired amenities and flexible one story home designs.
Cresswind at Hammock Oaks, Lady Lake, FL (55+, Coming Soon)
A coming soon 55+ community in Lady Lake, planned to offer new homes, lifestyle amenities, and convenient access to Central Florida attractions.
Cresswind Central Florida 55+ Communities
Explore all Cresswind 55+ communities in Central Florida and find the neighborhood that best fits your lifestyle near the Orlando area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best Orlando things to do for adults?
Popular Orlando things to do for adults include visiting Wekiva Springs or Discovery Cove for a more relaxed day, enjoying shows at the Dr. Phillips Center, exploring Winter Park and Park Avenue, planning date nights at fine dining and local favorite restaurants, and experiencing downtown or International Drive nightlife.
Is Orlando a good place to live if you are not focused on theme parks?
Yes, the Orlando area offers lakes, springs, golf, arts, shopping, and a growing dining scene in addition to its parks. Many people choose nearby communities so they can enjoy a quieter daily lifestyle, then plan trips into Orlando for shows, dining, or attractions whenever they choose.
How close are Cresswind communities to Orlando attractions?
Communities like Cresswind DeLand, Cresswind at Lake Harris, and Cresswind at Hammock Oaks are located in Central Florida towns within driving distance of Orlando. This gives residents an easy way to plan day trips and nights out while enjoying a quieter, residential setting at home.