Just a Brightline ride away, Orlando offers more than just a trip to Disney. With a wide array of family-friendly activities, museums and resorts for a couples getaway, we bring you our picks for the ultimate getaway to Orlando.
Four Seasons
Offering both luxury and play in spades, Four Seasons Resort Orlando is an escape for kids and parents alike. From a world-class spa with cutting-edge treatments to the Michelin-starred restaurant Capa Steakhouse and many other amenities, relaxation, play and indulgence are all part of the Four Seasons Orlando experience. Float away in the Lazy River or have a quick reprieve in the adults-only pool while children get their Disney dose. Don’t forget the golf course or additional on-site amenities. 10100 Dream Tree Blvd., Lake Buena Vista, Website
Waldorf Astoria Orlando
Residing on a peaceful 482-acre nature preserve, the Waldorf offers an oasis of luxury with amenities and experiences for the perfect respite. Suites exude sophisticated elegance, including designer bath products, spacious living and dining areas, and private balconies with envious views of the prestigious golf course or beautiful nature preserve. This five-star hotel features amenities such as poolside cabanas surrounding a refreshing pool, a spa with various luxury treatments and a meticulously designed 18-hole golf course by acclaimed golf course architect Rees Jones. Multiple dining options include the award-winning Bull & Bear, which offers reimagined steakhouse classics such as guest favorites like fried chicken or the pasta explosion. 14200 Bonnet Creek Resort Lane, Orlando, Website
Grande Lakes Orlando
Standing over 500 acres, guests staying at Grande Lakes Orlando can enjoy the property’s incomparable amenities and dining experiences. The property features a 582-room Ritz-Carlton and 1,010-room JW Marriott hotel. At the same time, families and couples can enjoy activities such as original culinary venues from award-winning chef John Tesar, the Michelin Guide recommended Primo, a signature lazy river, three waterslides, an 18-hole Greg Norman-designed championship golf course, a 40,000-square-foot spa and more. 4040 Central Florida Pkwy, Orlando, Website
Lake Nona Wave Hotel
Located in Orlando’s Lake Nona neighborhood, Lake Nona Wave Hotel is ushering in a new form of hospitality for the city. Home to a 50,000-square-foot Sculpture Garden, the hotel brings an enchanting collection of sculptures and landscaping from one of the world’s largest private art collections. Guests can also enjoy dedicated well+ech rooms with a rotating roster of sleep innovations and first-of-its-kind AI amenities, such as Bryte Balance beds and View Smart Windows, to help improve REM sleep. Guests at the hotel can also dine at the MICHELIN-recommended BACÁN, which serves upscale Latin flavors, or the 10-seat chef’s counter at Nami. 6100 Wave Hotel Drive, Orlando, Website
AVA
Embodying the essence of a Mediterranean and Aegean culinary journey, AVA delivers genuine hospitality, delicious cuisines and a vibrant atmosphere. Focusing on providing a unique experience for guests to bask in, AVA combines cultures, designs and cuisines, offering a refined dining experience. Menu items include flavors from the Mediterranean and Cycladic islands with the freshest ingredients, evolving meals for a flavorful taste highlighting exotic spices, fragrant herbs, lemons, rose water, orange peel, dried fruits and nuts, fruits and vegetables. 290 S Park Ave., Orlando, Website
Edoboy
This unique Michelin restaurant is unlike any other. As Orlando’s first standing sushi bar, Edoboy reveals the authentic experience of enjoying Japanese cuisine. Edoboy embraces a simple, sleek concept, delivering a fast and fun way to share a maximum of twelve delectable tastes. Highly recommended items are a sweet Hokkaido scallop finished with briny uni from Tasmania and a seared sea bream with uni butter, lemon and sea salt. Finishing off the meal with the must-try miso soup, made from the bones of the fresh fish cut daily. 728 N Thornton Ave., Orlando, Website
Norman's
This award-winning fine dining experience prepares a delectable selection of new-world culinary and mixology options. Known as the best fine-dining seafood restaurant in Orlando, menu items feature local ingredients complemented by the textures, colors and flavors of a unique blend of cultures. Savor elegant dishes and creative cocktails at one of the two private dining rooms or the beautiful alfresco outdoor area. 7924 Via Dellagio Way, Orlando, Website
Natsu
This intimate omakase spot offers two-night seatings at the ten-seat counter at 5:30 and 8 p.m. Taking customers through a journey of Japanese cuisine, guests can enjoy decadent sushi with seasonal and fresh ingredients sourced directly from Japan. Helmed by chef Stone, who brings his culinary skills, Natsu is an unparalleled flavor experience. Reservations must be made in advance. 777 N Orange Ave., Orlando, Website
Rollins Museum of Art
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Featuring rotating exhibits paired with ongoing programs, Rollins Museum of Art is a teaching museum that works to integrate art into daily life. As one of Florida’s first college museums, attendees can explore a collection of more than 5,700 objects spanning ancient artifacts to contemporary pieces. 1000 Holt Ave., Winter Park, Website
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Art
Located in the heart of downtown Orlando, Dr. Philips Center offers an array of venues for remarkable performing arts events. The largest venue, The Walt Disney Theater, hosts shows ranging from famous Broadway presentations to distinguished galas that will make your night unforgettable. 445 S Magnolia Ave., Orlando, Website
Orlando Science Center
For those who enjoy the intricate learnings of science and technology, the Orlando Science Center offers people of all ages the chance to dive into a world of creativity. Satisfy your inner child with a stimulating adventure, as the private museum offers a wide range of exciting exhibits with hands-on explorations, creating a fun interactive experience and live shows that delve into thrilling concepts. The Science Center promises to create a fun and engaging experience that’ll leave long-lasting memories. 777 E Princeton St., Orlando, Website
Photography by: Photos Courtesy of Venues
