How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Orlando, Florida, United States
1. Local Restaurants in Orlando
Explore authentic local eateries offering delicious food at reasonable prices. Avoid overpriced restaurants near tourist attractions.
- Location: Restaurants in residential areas or off the beaten path.
- Pricing: Reasonable prices compared to popular tourist restaurants.
- Recommendations: Ask locals or check online reviews for hidden gems.
2. Orlando Farmer's Markets
Experience local produce and crafts while avoiding touristy souvenir shops. Visit the Winter Park Farmers' Market on Saturdays.
- Location and Day: Specific location (Winter Park) and operating day (Saturday).
- Authentic Local Goods: Support local farmers and artisans, not tourist-targeted vendors.
- Prices: Competitive prices for fresh produce and unique crafts.
3. Lake Eola Park
Enjoy a peaceful day outdoors without the tourist crowds. Picnic, feed the swans, or take a boat ride.
- Time of Day: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid larger crowds.
- Activities: Variety of activities like picnicking, boating, and events.
- Location: Centrally located in downtown Orlando.
4. Orlando's Mills Avenue District
Experience local nightlife with live music venues and unique bars. Avoid the touristy clubs near International Drive.
- Location: Downtown Orlando's Mills Avenue District.
- Live Music Venues: Variety of music genres and local bands playing live.
- Unique Atmosphere: Uniquely Orlando bars and venues, not chain establishments.
5. Kissimmee's Old Town
Steer clear of the touristy attractions in Kissimmee. Explore the antique shops and local eateries at Old Town instead.
- Location: Kissimmee's Old Town area.
- Authentic Shops: Antique shops and local businesses, not touristy souvenir stores.
- Activities: Live music, arcade games, and go-karts for family fun.
6. Orlando Urban Trail
Experience local history while avoiding tourist crowds. Bike or walk along the Orlando Urban Trail.
- Location: Running through downtown and various neighborhoods.
- Historical Sites: Pass by historical markers, parks, and local landmarks.
- Activities: Biking, walking, or jogging opportunities.
7. Winter Garden's Plant Street
Visit charming Winter Garden for unique shops and local eateries. Avoid overcrowded downtown Orlando.
- Location: Winter Garden's Plant Street area.
- Authentic Shops: Unique, locally-owned shops and antique stores.
- Local Eateries: Cafes, restaurants, and bakeries with local favorites.
8. Sanford's Historic Downtown
Experience small-town charm without the tourist traps. Visit Sanford's historic district for antique shops and local eateries.
- Location: Sanford's historic downtown area.
- Authentic Shops: Antique stores, locally-owned shops, and art galleries.
- Local Eateries: Cafes, breweries, and restaurants with local favorites.
9. Orlando Art Museum
Appreciate local art without the tourist crowds. Visit the Orlando Museum of Art for affordable, thought-provoking exhibits.
- Location: Located in downtown Orlando.
- Local Art: Showcases local and regional artists.
- Affordable Admission: Competitive admission prices compared to tourist attractions.
10. Wekiva Island
Escape the crowds and explore nature at Wekiva Island. Relax on the riverbanks or go tubing.
- Location: Located along the Wekiva River.
- Nature Activities: Swimming, tubing, kayaking, and picnicking opportunities.
- Wildlife Spotting: Spot local wildlife like alligators, otters, and birds.
11. Orlando's Thai Town
Taste authentic Thai cuisine without the tourist crowds. Visit Orlando's Thai Town for a diverse selection of restaurants.
- Location: Sand Lake Road in Orlando.
- Authentic Food: Family-owned restaurants serving authentic Thai dishes.
- Variety of Restaurants: Multiple restaurants offering a range of Thai cuisines and price points.
12. Orlando's Audubon Park Garden District
Discover hidden gems in Orlando's Audubon Park Garden District. Visit local shops and eateries without the tourist crowds.
- Location: Orlando's Audubon Park Garden District area.
- Local Shops: Unique, locally-owned boutiques and shops.
- Eateries: Cafes, restaurants, and food trucks with local favorites.
13. Orlando's Milk District
Experience Orlando's vibrant arts scene without the tourist crowds. Visit the Milk District for galleries and live music venues.
- Location: Orlando's Milk District area.
- Art Galleries: Multiple art galleries showcasing local and regional artists.
- Live Music Venues: Small, intimate live music venues featuring local bands.
14. Orlando's Ivanhoe Village
Discover unique shops and eateries in Orlando's Ivanhoe Village without the tourist crowds.
- Location: Orlando's Ivanhoe Village area.
- Local Shops: Unique, locally-owned boutiques and shops.
- Eateries: Cafes, restaurants, and food trucks with local favorites.
15. Orlando's College Park Neighborhood
Experience a charming neighborhood without the tourist crowds. Visit College Park for antique shops and local eateries.
- Location: Orlando's College Park Neighborhood area.
- Authentic Shops: Antique stores, locally-owned shops, and art galleries.
- Local Eateries: Cafes, restaurants, and food trucks with local favorites.