Orlando’s Best Bars: Beyond the Theme Parks
Orlando. The name conjures images of magical kingdoms, thrilling rollercoasters, and family fun. But beyond the dazzling lights and character meet-and-greets lies a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene. As a local who’s explored every nook and cranny, I’m here to guide you through Orlando’s best bars, from hidden speakeasies to lively local hangouts. Forget the tourist traps; this is where the real Orlando comes alive after dark.
Downtown Orlando: The Heartbeat of the City
Downtown Orlando is where you’ll find a concentration of the city’s most energetic and eclectic bars. Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated cocktail or a no-frills local dive, downtown has it all.
The Imperial at Washburn Imports
Nestled within the eclectic Washburn Imports furniture store, The Imperial is a true gem. It’s one of those places you have to know about to find, and that’s part of its charm. Step through the antique doors and you’re transported to a dimly lit, bohemian oasis filled with unique furniture and art. The vibe is laid-back, the cocktails are expertly crafted, and the selection of craft beers is impressive. It’s the perfect spot for a date night or a relaxed evening with friends. Don’t miss their rotating selection of craft beers, and keep an eye on their events calendar for live music or themed nights. Their patio is also a lovely escape on a warm Orlando evening.
SkyLounge Orlando
For breathtaking views of the Orlando skyline, head to SkyLounge. Located atop the Grand Bohemian Hotel, this rooftop bar offers a sophisticated atmosphere and panoramic vistas. It’s the ideal place to enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail or wind down after a long day. The upscale ambiance, plush seating, and expertly mixed drinks make it a memorable experience. While it’s on the pricier side, the view and the quality of the experience are well worth it. They often have live jazz music, adding to the elegant mood.
The Guesthouse
This charming neighborhood bar in the Milk District is a local favorite for a reason. The Guesthouse boasts a cozy atmosphere, friendly bartenders, and an impressive rotating selection of craft beers. It’s the kind of place where you can strike up a conversation with regulars and feel instantly at home. They often feature local brews, so it’s a great spot to sample what Florida’s craft beer scene has to offer. Their outdoor patio is a fantastic spot to enjoy a beer on a pleasant evening, and they frequently host trivia nights and other community events.
Hops and Props Brewery Tour Stop (Check for Location)
While not a permanent bar, keep an eye out for pop-up events or brewery tours that might include stops at places like Hops and Props. These often offer a fantastic way to discover new breweries and sample a wide variety of local craft beers in a casual setting. For the latest on such events and to explore more about the local beer scene, checking out resources like dropt.beer’s blog is a great idea. They often cover local brewery news and events.
Wall Street Plaza
If you’re looking for a more energetic and social experience, Wall Street Plaza is a must-visit. This pedestrian-only street in downtown Orlando is lined with multiple bars and restaurants, creating a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends. You can hop from one establishment to another, each offering a different vibe. From sports bars to dance clubs, there’s something for everyone. It’s a great place to experience the buzz of downtown Orlando’s nightlife. Look out for their regular street parties and live music events.
The Milk District & Mills 50: Bohemian Vibes and Local Brews
These adjacent neighborhoods are known for their artistic flair, independent spirit, and a burgeoning craft beer and cocktail scene. They are the heart of Orlando’s alternative culture and a fantastic place to explore.
The Knack
A beloved spot in the Milk District, The Knack is a no-frills, classic neighborhood bar. It’s unpretentious, welcoming, and has a great jukebox. Expect friendly faces, affordable drinks, and a genuine local atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to unwind after exploring the unique shops and boutiques in the area. They have a solid selection of beers on tap and in bottles, making it a go-to for beer lovers.
Will’s Pub
A true Orlando institution, Will’s Pub has been a cornerstone of the local music and bar scene for decades. It’s a no-nonsense dive bar that hosts live music almost every night of the week, featuring a mix of local and touring bands across various genres. The beer selection is extensive, and the atmosphere is always buzzing. If you want to experience authentic Orlando nightlife and catch some great live music, Will’s is the place to be. Don’t forget to check their schedule for upcoming shows.
Lil Indies
Connected to Will’s Pub, Lil Indies is its more intimate, cocktail-focused counterpart. It has a cozy, speakeasy vibe with a fantastic menu of creative cocktails and a curated selection of craft beers. It’s the perfect spot for a more relaxed evening, perhaps before or after a show at Will’s. The bartenders are true artists, and the atmosphere is intimate and inviting. Their outdoor seating area is also quite pleasant.
Ivanhoe Village: Chic and Crafty
Just north of downtown, Ivanhoe Village offers a more refined yet still local bar experience. It’s a charming area with boutique shops, antique stores, and some excellent drinking establishments.
The Robinson Room
This stylish cocktail lounge in Ivanhoe Village is known for its expertly crafted drinks and sophisticated ambiance. The bartenders are knowledgeable and passionate, creating unique concoctions that are both delicious and visually appealing. It’s a great place for a special occasion or when you’re in the mood for a top-notch cocktail. Their menu is extensive, featuring both classic and innovative drinks. The dim lighting and comfortable seating create an intimate setting.
The Other Bar
Don’t let the name fool you; this is a bar you definitely want to know about! Located in the heart of Ivanhoe Village, The Other Bar offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere with a great selection of craft beers and a solid cocktail menu. It’s a popular spot for locals, offering a comfortable place to socialize and enjoy a well-made drink. They often have a good variety of local and regional craft beers on tap.
Local Brewery Scene: A Growing Force
Orlando’s craft beer scene has exploded in recent years, with new breweries popping up regularly. For the true beer enthusiast, exploring these local breweries is a must. Many offer tasting rooms where you can sample a wide array of their brews, often paired with food trucks or live music. If you’re passionate about craft beer, consider looking into resources like dropt.beer. They are a fantastic resource for discovering local breweries, checking out their beer lists, and even purchasing beer online from participating breweries, which is a great way to support local businesses. You can find their shop at dropt.beer/shop/.
Other Neighborhood Gems to Explore
Orlando is a sprawling city, and great bars can be found in many different neighborhoods. Don’t be afraid to venture out and explore!
Taverna Opa Orlando
While primarily a restaurant, Taverna Opa in the Sand Lake area offers a unique bar experience with its lively Greek atmosphere, belly dancers, and plate smashing (yes, really!). The bar area is a fun place to grab a drink and soak in the energetic ambiance. It’s a departure from the typical bar scene and offers a taste of something different. Their cocktails are infused with Mediterranean flavors, and the energy is infectious.
Se7en Bites (Bar Area)
This beloved Southern comfort food spot in the Milk District also has a charming bar area. While known for its incredible brunch and lunch, their bar serves up delicious cocktails and a good selection of beer. It’s a cozy spot to grab a drink and some fantastic food in a relaxed setting. Their craft cocktail menu is surprisingly robust for a place also known for its food.
Insider Tips for Orlando’s Bar Scene:
- Transportation: Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available and recommended, especially if you plan on drinking. Downtown Orlando and the Milk District are relatively walkable once you’re in the area, but getting between neighborhoods might require a ride.
- Happy Hour: Many bars, especially in downtown and Sand Lake, offer fantastic happy hour deals. Check individual bar websites or social media for their specific offerings.
- Local Events: Keep an eye on local event calendars for bar crawls, brewery events, live music nights, and themed parties. Sites like dropt.beer’s blog often highlight these.
- Dress Code: Most bars in Orlando are casual. However, upscale cocktail lounges like SkyLounge or The Robinson Room might appreciate slightly dressier attire.
- Embrace the Local: Don’t be afraid to ask bartenders for recommendations. They are often the best source of insider knowledge about what’s new, what’s popular, and what hidden gems you might have missed.
Orlando’s bar scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. Whether you’re a craft beer aficionado, a cocktail connoisseur, or just looking for a friendly place to grab a drink, you’ll find your perfect spot. So, step off the beaten path, explore these local favorites, and discover the true spirit of Orlando after dark. Cheers!
