From Dazzling Nightlife and Romantic Dining to Family Fun and Attractions for All Ages, I–Drive Offers Something for Everyone
If you haven’t been to International Drive lately, now is the perfect time to go. The crowds are down, the weather is cooler, and the area has undergone a recent revitalization. This 10.5-mile stretch of nonstop fun encompasses six theme parks, hundreds of shops and restaurants, hotels and attractions for every age.
“If you have a day or even a couple of hours, there is always something to do,” said Maria Triscari, president and CEO of the International Drive Resort Area Chamber of Commerce. “We have every cuisine imaginable, amazing attractions and some of the best shopping in the world.”
This world-class destination in the heart of Orlando’s tourist corridor offers everything from miniature golf and chocolate-tasting family outings to romantic fine dining. Learn to belly-dance, lie on a bed of nails, and even fly in a helicopter — all on the same day.
Spend the day at Fun Spot America and ride Central Florida’s only wooden roller coaster, hit the go-kart track, ride the thrill rides or feed the alligators. It’s good old-fashioned fun at a price that won’t break the bank.
There’s more than meets the eye at I–Drive 360. Of course you’ll want to ride on the iconic Coca-Cola Orlando Eye observation wheel, but families can easily make a day of it by visiting the incredibly lifelike wax figures at Madame Tussauds, discovering more than 400 skeletons at Skeletons: Animals Unveiled, and walking through the 360-degree ocean tunnel at Sea Life Orlando Aquarium. When hunger strikes, grab a quick meal or linger for an evening of fine dining and entertainment.
Nearby Kings Orlando is another great option for a family outing or a night on the town (over age 21 only after 8 p.m.). This retro-inspired bowling alley sports 22 lanes, billiards, pingpong, a full-service restaurant, two bars and outdoor games for hours of fun. Check the website for happy hour discounts and weekly promotions.
Whether you’re looking for a place to kick back and watch the game with a mountain of nachos or play the latest video games in a high-energy arcade, Dave & Buster’s is the place to play, eat, drink and have fun. This all-ages venue is popular for birthday parties and corporate events.
With tropical-themed seating areas, indoor waterfalls and dazzling dancing, Mango’s Tropical Café brings live music and upscale Latin flavors to the heart of I-Drive.
“We spared no expense to make Mango’s the premier Orlando dining, entertainment and nightlife destination, right in the heart of the attractions corridor,” said Joshua Wallack, Mango’s developer.
The 55,000-square-foot nightclub boasts a family-friendly dinner show and more than 100 menu options, including an extensive offering of appetizers, salads, burgers, pizzas, seafood and a host of Latin-themed dishes.
If you haven’t been to I-Drive lately, head down for a visit. With many new attractions, shops and restaurants, there is a whole new world of fun to explore, right in your own backyard.💓