Orlando Top 10

Writers note: This list came about by narrowing down some of the best places around the city. I’m a local and Ana was new in town, so we had a mix of perspectives to pick these special spots. Even as a local I haven’t been to some of these places, so it makes it all the more fun to see a Google Review-like summary of their vibes.

Stardust Cafe 

Nostalgia, comfort, and string lights represent The Stardust Cafe. This cute spot will wrap you up in a blanket of wonderful coffee shop vibes. This adored cafe opened up back in 1999 as a store where you could sip coffee as you picked out a movie to rent. The natural transition from a video-rental store to a full on cafe came about when DVD players were lost to the more modern tech we love today. There is a charming Italian-style counter where you can order a coffee or a yummy nibble and nearly every wall has picture frames with quirky photos and random knick-knacks. During the day there is tons of sunlight washing through the windows and at night the twinkling lights along the ceiling create a warm, inviting aura. From live shows with local bands to poetry nights, this is the place to catch a chill vibe.

Corrine Drive

If you are looking for a relaxing shopping moment, Corrine Drive is the spot for you! With coffee shops, gardening, vintage clothing and CD stores, the area provides a good amount of places for you to spend a typical Florida afternoon. In addition, the street is welcoming a brand new bookstore focused on romances of all kinds, which adds a plus to the variety of independent businesses that chose Corrine Drive as their forever spot.

Leu Gardens 

The natural garden offers the perfect setting for those who are thinking about scaping the craziness that means living in Orlando. With 50 acres of land and 40 plant collections, Leu Gardens is ideal for all ages and seasons. If you decide to go with kids, near the tropical garden, there is a ‘children’s reading corner’ and some benches for a quick pause. If you are feeling romantic, make sure to check the rose and butterfly gardens, where colorful and delicate flowers attract pollinators. Even though the garden feels like a different place, Florida’s weather is still a factor, so sunscreen and water are must-haves year-round.

Avalon Exchange 

The peak of cute vintage clothes is what you’ll find at this local thrift store! Avalon Exchange is all about mixing an 80’s theme with current trends. Who doesn’t love that? All their inventory comes from the locals, meaning it’s almost guaranteed that something will strike your eye. Many gems are peppered around the store including adorable pins and big-name brands. New inventory is put out almost daily, so there’s always more to come back for. Grabbing some Stardust coffee on the way to this thrift is a perfect afternoon!

Winter Park

Winter Park is one of the best spots around Central Florida to hang out any day of the week at any time of the day. While it is considered the city of arts and culture, the region also aims for a “sustainable future for all generations” by protecting Winter Park’s natural system and hosting over 35 annual events that helps to maintain the community united. For locals and tourists, the neighborhood is very welcoming, from The Wine Room that allows you to explore over 150 wines from around the world, to the Rollins Museum that catches your attention with art from the four corners of the globe.

The Enzian 
This beloved theater creates the gorgeous experience of blending together a delicious dinner with an entertaining film! Numerous film festivals are hosted here, including the Florida Film Festival, adding to the charm of this local theater. Sit back and joyfully relax as you watch films that range from classics to modern masterpieces. A theater like this is a lucky find to put the allure back into cinema. Who doesn’t want to go out for a wonderfully combined dinner and a movie?

Orlando Museum of Art 

As a perfect place to spend the day, the Orlando Museum of Art offers an incredible environment for everyone (including toddlers) who are looking to escape the craziness of living in one of the most touristic cities in the world. Founded in 1924, OMA is the home of a well-curated ancient America collection and modern artists such as Andy Warhol, which allows adults to better understand the importance of art throughout the centuries, while also offering on-site events such as “Yoga in the Galleries” and “Stroller Tours.” Everybody should add a little bit of art to their lives.

Tori Tori 

Tori Tori is the perfect Japanese pub food located at North Mills Ave, with a variety of flavorful drinks and small bites for you to try. The gentle lighting and peaceful ambiance create a cozy setting, ideal for couples or small gatherings.

A calm, speakeasy aesthetic hits you when you first walk in. An interesting menu paired with beautiful mocktails cement this restaurant as a unique experience! Each dish came out sporadically when the chef was finished and the pretty presentation stayed consistent. The small tapas-style portions allowed for the focus to be on the burst of flavor and aroma at an affordable price. Take a step inside to see why so many locals are raving about this spot!

The Wellborn 

With an adorable and relaxing vibe, The Wellborn is a great spot 

for brunch with friends or by yourself. You can enjoy your Spanish-style tapas either by the courtyard or inside the historic I.W. Phillips House while sipping on vibrant, colorful drinks. Speaking of historic houses, The I.W. Phillips House was built in 1917 and moved to the current location in the 1980s. If you’re stopping by on a Sunday, you’re in for a treat—live music in the courtyard makes brunch even more enjoyable!

Milk District 

The comfy Milk District is the place to go for a quick snack, relaxing afternoon, or a fun night out! This small, but excitingly packed, area of our city has some native staples. The widespread Festival Park is usually packed with sports lovers all afternoon long with the Orlando Skate Park right next door. Kelly’s Ice Cream is a go-to for the creamiest sweet treat to satisfy cravings. Southern Nights, a spunky nightclub, feels like a scavenger hunt where a new crowd is just around the corner and fun events pop up weekly. This district aims to keep the focus on uplifting artists and small businesses located within its borders. We love seeing a strong vision for diversity being implemented in wonderful ways!

Written by: Melanie Diel and Ana Carolina-Ferreira

Cowritten by: Verdugo Lizama

Edited by: Nina Rueda

Published in the Strike Magazine Orlando print issue 10, Spring 2025. Piece begins on page 82.