Romantic Things to Do in Orlando Florida: 20 Enchanting Experiences for Two
With all the theme parks and family fun to be had, Orlando may not strike you as a traditionally romantic getaway at first glance. Look a little closer, though, and you’ll find this central Florida hotspot is filled to the brim with experiences to rekindle your love.
When you think of a romantic escape, your mind might drift to Parisian cafés, tropical beaches, or the neon-lit allure of Las Vegas. But if you’re planning a romantic getaway Orlando style, you’ll find the City Beautiful is more than just a family-friendly destination.
This Central Florida hotspot is a surprisingly intimate, enchanting place for couples looking to rekindle the spark or celebrate special occasions. From the whisper of a gentle breeze across a scenic lake to candlelit dinners with views of world-class entertainment, you’ll discover that Orlando’s lush neighborhoods, cultural gems, and famed theme parks offer a tapestry of experiences perfect for lovebirds.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most romantic things to do in Orlando, Florida—from classic date nights and secret gardens to sunrise hot air balloon rides over the horizon.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a second honeymoon, or just a cozy date night during an extended vacation, this listicle will ensure you have plenty of ideas for romantic getaways in Orlando Florida.
Dive in, take notes, and let your love story unfold against the backdrop of Orlando’s enchantments.
1. Paddle a Swan Boat at Lake Eola Park
For a serene respite right in the heart of downtown Orlando, head to Lake Eola Park, where couples can rent a swan boat and enjoy a peaceful ride across the shimmering water. The city skyline, leafy trees, and whimsical real-life swans create a setting that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle.
Gliding hand-in-hand, you’ll find the swan boat experience perfect for reconnecting and enjoying quiet moments together. Afterward, stroll around the park, grab a coffee, and even browse the farmer’s market on Sundays. It’s no surprise that a gentle cruise on a swan boat is consistently listed among the most romantic things to do in Orlando.
2. Enjoy a Sunset Picnic and Sailing on Lake Apopka
Orlando boasts numerous picturesque lakes, and taking advantage of these natural gems for a dreamy date is a must. One of the most enchanting romantic things to do in Orlando Florida is to set up a sunset picnic by the shore and then embark on a sunset sailing on Lake Apopka or one of the region’s other stunning bodies of water.
Sailing into the warm pink and orange hues of a Florida sunset provides an unforgettable, intimate setting perfect for whispering sweet nothings as the world gently drifts by. Consider bringing a gourmet picnic basket filled with local cheeses, chocolates, and sparkling wine to elevate the moment.
3. Explore the Charm of Winter Park
If you’re seeking romantic getaways in Orlando Florida that feel charmingly European, venture over to Winter Park. With its cobblestone streets, quaint boutiques, lush gardens, and picturesque lakes, Winter Park offers a gentler, more refined side of Central Florida.
Stroll through the rose garden at Leu Gardens, savor a slow brunch at a chic café, or hop aboard a scenic boat tour that meanders through the area’s chain of lakes. The quiet elegance and old-world charm of Winter Park set the stage for meaningful conversations, heartfelt laughter, and memories you’ll cherish long after you return home.
4. Indulge in a Date Night at Disney Springs
For couples who wish to blend the enchantment of Walt Disney World with sophisticated dining and entertainment, Disney Springs is the perfect date night destination. Live music, waterfront walkways, and a vast array of world-class restaurants and bars await.
Begin with a handcrafted cocktail at The Edison or a glass of wine at Wine Bar George, then feast on artisanal pizzas at Blaze or upscale Asian-inspired cuisine at Morimoto Asia.
End the night with a sweet treat from Amorino Gelato and a romantic waterfront stroll. Disney Springs offers many of the most romantic things to do in Orlando while maintaining that signature Disney magic.
5. Enjoy a Performance at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
If you’re looking for a cultural and refined romantic getaway Orlando style, book tickets to a show at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S Magnolia Ave. This state-of-the-art center for the performing arts—set in the heart of downtown Orlando—hosts Broadway shows, ballets, operas, and concerts.
Get dressed up for the evening, have a pre-show dinner at a nearby upscale restaurant, and indulge in a theatrical performance that will inspire conversation and delight. Attending a show at the Dr. Phillips Center might just become one of your favorite romantic getaways Orlando can provide, especially if you surprise your partner with tickets.
6. Wander Through the Orlando Museum of Art and Loch Haven Park
Art lovers searching for romantic things to do in Orlando Florida should look no further than the Orlando Museum of Art and nearby Loch Haven Cultural Park. Here, you can admire contemporary exhibitions, thought-provoking installations, and timeless masterpieces.
After exploring the museum, take a leisurely walk through the sculpture-dotted grounds of Loch Haven Park. The combination of culture, nature, and creative inspiration sets a dreamy stage for heartfelt discussions and quiet handholding, turning an afternoon into a cherished memory.
7. Experience a Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Central Florida
Imagine soaring above the verdant landscape of orange groves, glittering lakes, and theme parks glimmering in the distance as the sun rises. A hot air balloon ride is one of the most unforgettable and romantic things to do in Orlando.
Drifting silently through the early morning sky, you’ll witness the region’s beauty from a breathtaking vantage point. It’s the perfect opportunity to celebrate special occasions—perhaps an anniversary or a proposal—while you float over the lush expanses of Central Florida. Don’t forget to toast with a glass of champagne upon landing, sealing the memory in your hearts.
8. Revel in the Elegance of a Lakefront Dinner at Hillstone in Winter Park
For a romantic dinner that surpasses the ordinary, reserve a lakefront table at Hillstone at 215 S Orlando Ave, Winter Park. Overlooking Lake Killarney, Hillstone’s outdoor lawn, Adirondack chairs, and fire pits create a dreamy setting for couples.
With a seasonally inspired menu focusing on top-quality ingredients, the restaurant is as famous for its ambiance as its cuisine. Share a bottle of wine, watch the sailboats drift by, and linger as the sun dips below the horizon. This combination of culinary excellence and scenic tranquility is a shining example of the romantic getaways Orlando is known for.
9. Stroll Down Park Avenue and Visit a Wine Bar
One of the ultimate date night experiences involves taking a slow, hand-in-hand stroll down Winter Park’s elegant Park Avenue. Peppered with upscale boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafés, this tree-lined street offers plenty of opportunities to pause and savor the moment.
Select a charming wine bar like The Wine Room, where you can sample wines by ounce, share a charcuterie board, and enjoy intimate conversation. Such a classic, simple date can rank high on your list of romantic things to do in Orlando Florida. The ambiance and warmth of Park Avenue create an ideal environment for sparking a deep connection.
10. Savor a Couples’ Spa Day at a Luxury Resort
Sometimes, the best romantic getaway Orlando can offer involves slowing down and pampering yourselves. Many of the city’s luxury resorts—such as the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes—feature world-class spas perfect for a couples’ massage or a private whirlpool soak. Slip into plush robes, sip herbal teas, and let your worries melt away.
Follow up with a leisurely afternoon by the pool or indulge in a gourmet brunch. A rejuvenating spa day is one of those romantic getaways in Orlando Florida that leaves you both feeling refreshed, reconnected, and deeply content.
11. Take a Scenic Boat Tour in Winter Park’s Chain of Lakes
The Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour guides you through three of the area’s most beautiful lakes and charming canals, offering a glimpse of waterfront mansions, lush fauna, and hidden gardens. This peaceful excursion can serve as a memorable highlight of your romantic getaway Orlando experience.
As you glide through quiet waterways, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a pastoral painting. The gentle hum of the boat’s engine and the soft lapping of water provide a soothing soundtrack, allowing you to focus entirely on each other.
12. Enjoy Live Music and Cocktails at Downtown Orlando’s Speakeasies
For couples who love nightlife infused with a touch of class, downtown Orlando’s growing craft cocktail scene awaits. Seek out a hidden speakeasy-like Mathers Social Gathering at 3 Phoenix Building, with its plush velvet seating, antique décor, and inventive cocktails.
Live jazz or acoustic sets often fill the space with a gentle melody, setting the mood for whispers and laughter. This kind of experience adds flavor to the romantic things to do in Orlando, proving that the city’s sophistication goes beyond its theme parks. Pair your evening with a late-night dessert, and let the city’s charm wash over you.
13. Spend an Afternoon at the Enzian Theater and Eden Bar
Film-loving couples will adore the Enzian Theater, an independent cinema nestled beneath Spanish moss-draped oaks. Screening indie films, classics, and cult favorites, the Enzian combines art and gastronomy in one alluring package. Snuggle up on a cozy couch, sip craft cocktails, and watch a thought-provoking film—an ideal date night for cinephiles.
After the show, head to the adjacent Eden Bar, where the open-air setting and lush foliage provide a romantic backdrop for discussing the film and imagining your future adventures together. It’s a treasured local secret and one of the romantic things to do in Orlando Florida that caters to culture enthusiasts.
14. Admire the Views from ICON Park’s The Wheel
Though Orlando’s claim to fame often revolves around theme parks, you don’t need to be a thrill-seeker to find love in the skies. Head to ICON Park on International Drive and take a ride on The Wheel, a 400-foot observation wheel that offers panoramic views of the city. Step into a private capsule, hold each other close and watch the city lights sparkle far below.
With views stretching to downtown Orlando and even glimpses of Walt Disney World, it’s a perfect vantage point to take it all in. This is one of the most romantic things to do in Orlando, blending sightseeing with a cozy, elevated moment just for two.
15. Attend a Show at the Orlando Shakespeare Center
If you appreciate the classics, attending a performance at the Orlando Shakespeare Theater in Loch Haven Park is a refined choice for a romantic evening. Sharing laughter at a Shakespearean comedy or wiping away tears after a heartfelt drama can bring couples closer together.
The post-show discussions often lead to deeper conversations about life, love, and art. Combine this cultural experience with a pre-show dinner or a late dessert run, and you’ve crafted a date that stands out among other romantic getaways Orlando has to offer.
16. Embark on a Culinary Adventure With a Foodie Tour
Couples who bond over exceptional cuisine will love exploring Orlando’s thriving culinary scene. Book a food tour that takes you through neighborhoods like the Mills 50 District, Audubon Park, or College Park to sample farm-to-table bites, artisan pastries, and carefully crafted cocktails.
Learning about the city’s diverse flavors, meeting passionate chefs, and savoring each bite hand-in-hand add a gastronomic dimension to romantic getaways in Orlando Florida. The sensory delight of new tastes and aromas will surely bring you closer together, forging memories that linger long after the last crumb is gone.
17. Celebrate Special Occasions at a Rooftop Bar or Lounge
For a grand gesture—anniversaries, birthdays, proposals, or “just because”—elevate the moment at one of Orlando’s chic rooftop bars. Venues like Capa at the Four Seasons, 10100 Dream Tree Blvd, or AC Sky Bar, 333 S Garland Ave Floor 18, offer sweeping views, artisanal cocktails, and a glamorous ambiance.
Sipping champagne under the stars and gazing upon the city lights can turn a simple night out into one of those romantic getaways Orlando couples will recount fondly for years. It’s an elevated setting that reminds you that love should be celebrated in style, marking your special occasions with sophistication and sparkle.
18. Explore the Natural Beauty of Wekiwa Springs State Park
For couples who crave nature and tranquility, a day trip to Wekiwa Springs State Park is just the ticket. Just a short drive from Orlando, this natural oasis offers hiking trails, kayaks, and crystal-clear springs perfect for a refreshing dip. Pack a picnic and spend the day enjoying each other’s company beneath the shade of old-growth trees.
Whether you choose to paddle down the Wekiva River, spot wildlife, or simply lounge on the grassy banks, connecting with nature is one of those timeless romantic things to do in Orlando Florida that soothes the soul and strengthens your bond.
19. Tour the Scenic Lakefront Homes in Windermere
Take a leisurely drive to Windermere, a tiny town near Orlando known for its luxurious homes and lakefront estates. Cruising along tree-lined streets and peeking at grand mansions nestled along the shores can spark daydreams of shared futures and grand adventures.
Finish your afternoon with a stop at a local café or bakery, savoring pastries and coffee as the sun softens over the lake. Even if you’re just browsing, the serenity and elegance of this area make it one of the most understated yet romantic getaways Orlando offers for couples who appreciate architectural beauty and tranquility.
20. Find Enchantment at Walt Disney World’s Epcot and Magic Kingdom After Dark
No list of romantic things to do in Orlando would be complete without highlighting Walt Disney World. While the parks are famous for family fun, they can be equally enchanting for couples—especially after dark.
Wander through the World Showcase at Epcot, sampling global cuisines as the torches flicker on the lagoon. Catch the evening fireworks display at Magic Kingdom, hand-in-hand with your loved one. There’s a fairy-tale quality in the air that evokes a sense of wonder and possibility.
Relish the small moments: sharing a Mickey pretzel, laughing at classic attractions, or slow dancing under the shimmering lights of Cinderella Castle. It’s pure magic and one of the undeniably most romantic things to do in Orlando Florida. Read this Disney World itinerary for adults for more insider tips.
Orlando: More Than Meets the Eye
While Orlando is globally recognized for its theme parks and family-friendly fun, it has a softer side that’s perfect for couples in love. These 20 suggestions merely scratch the surface of the city’s romantic potential.
Whether you’re sipping handcrafted cocktails under twinkling lights in downtown Orlando, delighting in an intimate wine tasting, or watching hot air balloons drift over the horizon, you’ll find romantic getaways in Orlando can rival any destination known for romance.
This guide is designed for those willing to venture beyond the ordinary, eager to discover not just the city’s entertainment but also its hidden corners of serenity and elegance.
The most romantic things to do in Orlando aren’t always the loudest or the most obvious. Sometimes, they involve a quiet bench by a lake, a well-chosen bottle of wine, or the hushed darkness of a candlelit theater.
As you plan your romantic getaway Orlando dream trip, remember to cherish the unique blend of nature, culture, cuisine, and enchantment that only Central Florida can provide. In this city of shining lights, lakeside tranquility, and cultural riches, love is always in the air—waiting for you to breathe it in, savor it, and make it your own.
