When it comes to romance in the 407 or the 321 (Orlando area codes for those of you that aren’t locals), there are surprisingly a lot of great options. However, finding these can often be a challenge because the media, marketing, and guides for the area are much for focused on the theme parks than they are on helping you get your romance on.
That’s where we come in. Today, we’re going to look at 15 of the most romantic things to do in Orlando for couples. And instead of just giving you a big list, we’re breaking them down into several categories to help you find exactly what you want:
- Classic Romantic Experience in Orlando
- Unique Orlando Romance Ideas
- Hidden and Intimate Spots in Central Florida
- Outdoor Romantic Ideas for Couples (When it’s not 200 degrees)
If you’re ready, let’s dive in.
A Free Orlando Romance Tool You Need to Have
Before we get into our list, if romance is what you’re looking for in Orlando, there’s a free tool you need to have. It’s called LoveTrack, and it’s a couples app and date night planner with hundreds of unique and romantic date night ideas, daily couples questions, anniversary reminders, and so much more.
If you always want fun and romantic ideas to do in Orlando (literally for free), you need to get this app. It’s an incredible resource and a must-have (especially because it’s legit free).
Now that you’re all set, let’s get into the list.
Classic Romantic Experience in Orlando
If you’re looking for something traditionally romantic, there are quite a few options in Orlando. Keep in mind that some of the options in this category can be a bit expensive, but that comes with the game when you’re looking for something “classic” in a tourist-driven town.
A Visit to Harry P. Leu Gardens (see the roses!)
The Harry P. Leu gardens are located right in downtown Orlando and have a 50 acre plot of beautiful flowers and gardens that are topped off by the incredible rose collection. You can go year-round (and it’s great), but keep an eye out for special events, especially around the holidays. The holiday lights walk is out of this world.
Being right in downtown, there are a lot of great little restaurants around that you can check out to make it into a full romantic night. If you want something really fun, go to the East End Market that is like 2 miles away. Tons of great restaurants, an out of this world cookie store (Gideon’s Bakery, just like the one at Disney Springs), and some of the best “chicken” sandwiches on the planet at Winter Park Biscuit Company. We put it in quotes because it’s actually a Vegan restaurant, but you seriously can’t tell.
A Sunset Stroll At Lake Eola Park
Keeping on the budget-friendly side of things, a stroll around the iconic Orlando park with the fountain, swan boats, and amazing skyline views is perfect for a romantic night in Orlando. If you want to keep it simple, you can pack a picnic and enjoy it on the grounds. Or, if you want to step it up a notch, there are a ton of restaurants and adorably romantic coffee shops nestled right around the park.
And if you want to really do it Florida style, there’s a Publix on the south end of the park where you can snag some Pub Subs for your picnic! Yes, that it classic Florida romance if you ask us!
You can totally rent a swan boat as well (which is romantic), but just remember, you peddle them…which means it’s technically exercise. A lot of people don’t realize that until they’re sweating out in the middle of the lake and need to get back to shore 🙂
Victoria and Albert’s at Grand Floridian
When we said some of these ideas would be pricy, this is why (but don’t worry, if it’s in the budget, it is totally worth it). A Five Diamond AAA rated restaurant, Victoria and Albert’s is considered one of the most romantic fine dining spots in Orlando. It’s all done through a multi-course tasting menu that walks you and your senses through a magical world of deliciousness.
Prices start at $295 per person with several upscale add-on options available. This is certainly one of the pricier romantic things to do in Orlando for couples, but it’s a bucket list item for most who live in or have visited the city.
And yes, it’s located on Disney property at the beautiful Grand Floridian hotel.
Spa Day for Two at the Ritz Carlton
Surprise, the pricy train has not stopped chugging for this idea, but again, probably worth every penny. If you really want to pamper each other with a romantic outing in Orlando, a spa day for two at the Ritz Carlton is about as grand as you can get.
The 40,000 square foot spa (award winning) has a private pool, outdoor healing garden, and a comprehensive menu of treatments.
Easy to spend a lot here, but hard to go wrong when it comes to romance.
Unique Orlando Romance Ideas
Now, it’s time to get into what we think are the most fun options for romantic things to do in Orlando. These more unique ideas are a bit out of the box and can help you break from the mundane routine.
Check Out the Lake Nona Sculpture Garden
The outdoor art garden at Lake Nona features intimate pathways and large-scale sculptures that are a perfect romantic place for couples in Orlando to explore. What’s great is this is a bit of a hidden gem with a really peaceful atmosphere, perfect for unhurried walks and conversation.
You can mix this with a picnic or go when Lake Nona is having one of it’s many special events that are perfect for romance and connection.
Go For a Ride on the Wheel at ICON Park (I-Drive)
Is there anything more romantic than a Ferris wheel? Okay, there might be some things, but it’s definitely up there as one the most ICON-ic (all puns intended) romance staples. If you’re looking to connect, why not go for a ride on The Wheel at ICON Park located on I-Drive!
Yes, I-Drive is a bit of a tourist area, but the 400-foot observation wheel can help you escape the hustle and bustle. And the best part? You have the option to book a private capsule, add champagne, and watch the sunset or the lights together.
Set up a Private Fireworks Cruise at Disney
We did our best to stay away from the theme parks on this list of romantic things to do in Orlando for couples, but come on…it’s Orlando. We can’t stay fully away! Besides Victoria and Albert’s, there’s another romantic option for couples around the theme park corridor. We’re talking about a private fireworks cruise at Disney.
You can hire a boat drive to take you and your special someone out onto the lake around Disney to watch the fireworks. They’ll even pipe the music in for you to go with the show!
Is this pricy? Yes, and how pricy depends on what you choose. You can do a booking with other people (still intimate), or book your own boat (more expensive, but more intimate and romantic). Totally up to you and your budget! Prices change based on the night and the season.
Hidden and Intimate Spots in Central Florida
While many of the romantic ideas we’ve shared already are hidden gems, we wanted to focus in on a few ideas that we think most people (even seasoned Orlando locals) might not be aware of.
Take the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour
Did you know Winter Park has a scenic boat tour? They do! This hour-long ride on a pontoon boat takes you through the intricate chain of lakes weaving through this part of Orlando. You’ll see historic mansions, incredible sunset skies, and breathtaking mosquitos (kidding). Seriously, though, this is a really unique romantic idea that there’s a really good chance your special guy or gal has never heard of (and it’s only $20 a person).
The only thing to know about here is that it’s first come-first serve, so make sure you get their early for the time you want to go!
Explore the Casa Feliz Historic Home Museum
Want romance in Orlando? The Casa Feliz Historic Home Museum has your back. This restored 1930s Spanish-style farmhouse is incredible for walks, conversation, pictures, and connection. What’s neat is you’ll not only be able to explore inside, but the outside gardens are perfect for romantic connection.
The duality of inside and outside makes this a “weather safe” option as well in case things change quickly (which they tend to do in Central Florida).
Book a Stay at The Alfond Inn at Rollins College
For those Orlando couples who want an overnight romantic option, the Alfond Inn at Rollins College is a hidden gem perfect for some romance. This boutique hotel in the Winter Park area of Orlando is great for a romantic overnight stay. Enjoy curated temporary art, upscale dining, and a neat location if you want to explore a little on your stay.
Go for a Romantic Stroll at the Mead Botanical Garden
Yes, we have a lot of walking options on this list, but walking, talking, and connecting in a romantic environment really is super romantic! Another great option here is the Mead Botanical Garden. This 47 acre natural oasis has a really romantic butterfly garden, lush walking trails, and even a creek (amazing to sit and listen to together).
What really makes this a great romantic option for Orlando couples is it’s off the beaten path (both figuratively and literally) which means it’s less crowded and more laid back.
Outdoor Romantic Ideas for Couples (When it’s not 200 degrees)
Florida (and Orlando) has some incredibly beautiful outdoor offerings, so a list of the best romantic ideas in Orlando would be incomplete without a dedicated outdoor section.
If you’re a local, you don’t need to hear this (because you know), but if you’re visiting, hear this. Please check the weather and the temperature before you set up one of these romantic options. Yes, we’re talking a little about storms, but more about unbearable heat during the summer.
Indulge in Wine Tasting at Lakeridge Winery
A little outside of central Orlando (between Minneola and Clermont) is the Lakeridge Winery. It’s a bit off the beaten path, but a wonderful place for a romantic outing together. Set in probably the only rolling hills of Florida, the winery does private tours and special weekend events.
What’s really fun is bringing a blanket and setting up on the weekend to listen to live music and enjoy the outdoors. Even if you aren’t a wine drinker, you can have fun and enjoy some good food and entertainment.
Go for a Romantic Sunset Walk at Kraft Azalea Park
We weren’t sure if this belonged in the hidden gems section or this one, but you can obviously see what we settled on. Kraft Azalea Park is a lakeside park with giant cypress trees, tons of romantic photo spots, and plenty of places to relax together.
The park is super popular for proposals, which feels like the best evidence that this is a great romantic option for couples in Orlando.
Set out on a Hand in Hand Romantic Hike or Float at Wekiwa Springs State Park
Our next idea for romance in Orlando, yes, could be more walking, but you also have an option to float together! The Wekiwa Springs State Park offers natural spring fed crystal-clear waters that are relaxing, peaceful (at times), and perfectly romantic.
This is a romantic idea for a daytime date, and ideally we’d recommend not going on a holiday weekend if you’re looking for a little bit of quiet and privacy. No matter what, though, the scenery and peaceful waters are a perfect recipe for romance.
Try Kayaking the Bioluminescent Waters at Indian River Lagoon
Want to do something both romantic and super cool? The Indian River Lagoon offers nighttime kayaking where the water is illuminated by glowing plankton. It’s hard to explain how cool this is, but it’s a must check out. Technically this is still Orlando (but right on the edge), so it made our list. That said, it would have made our list still if it was a little further out because it’s just that cool and romantic.
It’s rare to be able to do something physical like this at night, so get excited and take advantage of it!
Tips for Maximizing Romance in Orlando
Knowing the best romantic options for couples in Orlando is a great start. But if you really want to maximize your romance, here’s a few helpful tips.
Maximize the Simple Options with Creativity
You’ll notice that a lot of our romantic ideas in Orlando are based around the simplicity of nature. Embrace that! Set up cute romantic touches to make this simplicity stand out.
Plan for Traffic and Crowds
Yes, this is a tourist town. Unexpected or excessive traffic and crowds can really sour a romantic outing pretty quickly. Do your homework beforehand to make sure you’re minimizing traffic and excessive crowds as much as possible.
Seriously, Watch the Weather
Orlando weather is always going to be unpredictable. Even if you watch the forecast in the morning, it can chance 15 minutes later. Since you can’t control the weather, our advice is to have contingencies in case it rains. Always have an idea for something close by that you can use as a romantic fallback option in case you get rained out.
Look in the Smaller Cities
If you just search for Orlando romantic ideas, you’ll see all of the “bigger” options in the heart of Orlando. But if you’re open to driving out to the smaller suburbs, you can find some incredible romantic hidden gems, like many of the ones we shared today.
Use LoveTrack!
We mentioned it earlier, but we want to share it again. If you want to experience romance in Orlando, you need to get the LoveTrack app. It’s 100% free and is designed for exactly what you’re looking for.