Fun Things to Do in Orlando for Couples in 2026

Looking for things to do in Orlando for couples? We had a blast there recently, and you can follow our exact itinerary. From great restaurants, fun activities, and even a posh place to stay, Orlando is for romance!

Living just a couple of hours from Disney World, we have been to Orlando more times than I can count. In fact, just before college, our daughters participated in the Disney College Program, which meant they would live in Orlando and work at the parks for a while. Of course, this also meant my husband and I would have a once-a-month Disney Park day to visit them.

It’s been several years since that time, and our visits to Orlando have cut down quite a bit. Other than the once-a-year trip to the Walt Disney World Resort for the Epcot Food and Wine Festival or Flower and Garden Fest, we really didn’t see much of a reason to visit.

That was until recently, when my husband and I decided to spend our anniversary at the Ette Hotel. No kids. No theme parks. No real plans. We just wanted to relax and have fun. This itinerary was perfect for both.

Check out the best places for couples to visit in Orlando below, and let me know if you have any hidden gems I should add. Looking to book your hotel now? Scroll down to the bottom for information about the Ette Hotel.

Bok Gardens

We decided to begin our trip with a visit to Bok Tower Gardens. I had wanted to go there for ages to see the Singing Tower and the famous gardens. This is truly one of the most unique things you can do in the Orlando area.

This National Historic Landmark was created by Edward Bok, who was the editor and publisher of Ladies’ Home Journal from 1889 to 1919. At the time it was built, the tower was on the highest point in Florida. 

I’d heard it was pretty, but had no idea how gorgeous the gardens were. The giant lily pads were mind-blowing. They recently tested their strength, and one lily pad held 183 pounds!  

Though Bok Tower is the main attraction – with its famous singing tower of a grand carillon with 60 bells – the lush gardens, colorful flowers, walking trails, and tranquil setting were reasons we would come back. 

If you go, the main concerts are at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. You can also hear short selections on the hour and the half-hour. Check the website for live concerts and special events. 

Port 27 at Lake Hamilton

Just a short drive from Bok Towers, we had so much fun at Port 27 at Lake Hamilton. We were heading to the Ette Hotel and decided to stop for a bite. Port 27 delivered so much more. This destination on the side of Highway 27 in Haines City is unique and fun, with dining, shops, arts and crafts classes, fitness classes, and live music, depending on the day you visit.

We saw a brewery and headed there first, thinking we’d have a beer and figure out where to eat. It turned out that you can order from anywhere in the complex and they will deliver it to the brewery! That was a first for us. We ordered a charcuterie board, which was fabulous. You’ll find a lot of dining options:

• Port 27 Brewery: Here you’ll find lagers, stouts, and so much more, much of which is brewed on site. Check out the website for special events, like trivia and bingo. Brewery tours are coming soon.
• Antica Trattoria: Offering pizza and charcuterie boards. This was the restaurant that delivered our charcuterie board to Port 27 Brewery.
• Burger Bar: If burgers and wings are what you’re craving, this is the spot.
• Van De Walle: Need some caffeine? Stop in for a coffee or espresso. Take a look at the pastries and chocolate while you’re there.
• Seafood Wagon: This spot serves up fresh ceviche Thursday through Sunday from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. It was delicious!
• Taco Wagon: Craving tacos? Pair a couple with a beer from Port 27 Brewery.

You’ll love Port 27. Make sure to get a photo on the swing!

Leu Gardens

Another spot we had been meaning to visit for years, Harry P. Leu Gardens is a gorgeous 50-acre botanical paradise featuring 15,500 specimens from 223 different plant families. Spend some time visiting the Edible Garden, Tropical Fruit Collection, Bamboo Collection, Rose Garden, and Butterfly Garden, among others.

Ask about a tour of the historic Leu House Museum. Learn about the history of the families who have owned this beautiful property, built in 1888, and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Be sure to look at the calendar for special events. As part of their 65th Anniversary this year, Leu Gardens is presenting Legacy in Bloom, an immersive flower and garden experience. Taking place over six zones, this “living storybook” celebrates Florida’s beauty.

Tip: If you have a membership to another garden, like Bok or Selby (in Sarasota), you probably have a reciprocal membership and can enter for free. We joined in October and have saved more than the membership dues already.

Experience a Tasting at Quantum Leap Winery

I was honestly shocked at how good the wine was the first time I visited Quantum Leap Winery. Let’s be honest. Florida has a reputation for fruit wines, and we’re not talking grapes. Strawberry wine, mango wine, Key Lime wine – not my style.

What you’ll find at Quantum Leap Winery is delicious wine made with grapes sourced from the best grape-growing regions in the world. The grapes are crushed near where they are grown and transported to the winery in Orlando.

The final fermentation is completed at the winery, along with stabilization, fermentation, barrel-aging, and blending. All this is done with sustainability in mind, as well.

Stop in for a tasting. Reservations are not required. Quantum Leap has charcuterie boards and chocolate pairings, too.

Take a Stroll or Boat Around Lake Eola Park

Located in downtown Orlando, this is a great place to spend a little downtime. Take a walk on the paved path around the lake or rent a swan-shaped paddleboat.

Beautiful live swans make their home in this natural habitat, and are perfect subjects for Instagram photos. Picnic tables are available if you want to bring lunch.

Have Lunch and Do Some Shopping at Disney Springs

Disney Springs is a Disney-themed restaurant and shopping complex. You’ll find a variety of shops, including a few carrying Disney merchandise, so if you need a gift for the kids or grandkids, this is the place to get it without having to go to Magic Kingdom.

Stop for a cocktail and appetizer at our favorite spot in Disney Springs, Raglan Road, or one of over 50 places to eat. There’s even a dine-in theater if you want to catch a movie.

Have a Beer at Rockpit Brewing

Rockpit Brewing was not on our list, but we happened to see the sign. My husband and I both enjoy craft beer, and this spot has a lot on tap. We both ordered a flight so we could try several local beers.

Rockpit also has a pretty large dining menu, so we decided to have lunch. The bartenders were super friendly, and the food was delicious.

We were there on a weekday afternoon, but I would imagine they get a good crowd on weekends. The building is huge and has some outdoor seating, as well.

Where to Stay in Orlando

When it comes to the most romantic experiences in Orlando, staying at the Ette Hotel has to be at the top of my list. The Ette Hotel has been awarded the prestigious Michelin Key two years in a row, and you’ll feel that vibe the minute you step into the lobby. This is the perfect place to connect and recharge.

Between the luxurious boutique hotel and room and the divine Salt & The Cellar by Akira Back – their onsite signature dining experience – you’d be hard-pressed to find a hotel this special in all of Orlando.

When it comes to dining, imagine Asian-infused Mediterranean flavors. We were blown away not only by the culinary aspect but also by the service and the entire experience. The sashimi was out of this world.

You’ll need a minute as the menu is huge, but even on busy nights, the staff does not rush you. I loved this Seared Chilean Sea Bass. The food really is spectacular.

While you’re there, visit the spa for a treatment. They have a wellness spa package and even offer a couples massage. Pamper yourself with a facial or the unique experience of a Vitamin C drench.

With the Bed and Breakfast Package, you’ll receive a credit towards breakfast at Salt and The Cellar before heading out to explore Orlando. It’s a lovely way to start the day.

It’s a good idea to book your stay at The Ette Hotel as far in advance as you can. Be sure to book your dinner reservation at the same time.

We were lucky enough to snag seats at the bar the first night of our stay. It’s a great option for a more casual meal. The AB Wagyu Tacos and Akira Back Pizza, half mushroom and half tuna, were both excellent.

Best Time to Visit Orlando

Orlando is beautiful just about every day of the year. The summer months can be pretty hot, but the occasional shower cools things off quickly. Spring, fall, and winter are usually spectacular.

There really are plenty of romantic things to do in Orlando for couples, and it’s a fantastic destination to explore any time of year. You’ll also find performing arts at Dr. Phillips Center, the fabulous Orlando Museum of Art, hot air balloon rides, a plethora of restaurants, and plenty of touristy stops like Madame Tussauds, SeaWorld Orlando, Universal CityWalk, and Sea Life Aquarium.

If you’re planning to visit Orlando with the whole family, check out these affordable things to do in Orlando. There really is so much to explore.

Don’t forget to grab your free printable packing list and start planning your next getaway to the Sunshine State. What will you do first?

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