As the Theme Park Capital of the World, Orlando is where you go to unleash your inner child. The Central Florida city houses over eighteen different theme parks, including Universal Studios Florida, SeaWorld, and Walt Disney World Resort, which hosts one of our favorite annual gay party, One Magical Weekend.

But Orlando isn’t just about theme parks. It’s also a place of great natural beauty. When looking at a map of Orlando, you’d be forgiven for thinking someone had spilled a glass of water on it due to the impressive 100 lakes found within the city limits, with Lake Eola being the most famously photogenic. There are many natural parks within easy reach, perfect for hiking and any manner of outdoor activities to reconnect with Mother Nature. Orlando also has its own attractions like Icon Park and GatorLand. 

Finally, despite the tragedy of the Pulse shooting on June 12th, 2016, Orlando has a thriving and welcoming LGBTQ+ scene. So, even if your primary reason for visiting is some quality time with your inner child – or just to party at One Magical Weekend – you should get to know the city of Orlando itself. You won’t be disappointed!

Table of Contents

1. General Tips
2. Transportation & Airport Transfer
3. Gay Hotels in Orlando
4. Sightseeing & Activities in Orlando
5. Restaurants & Cafes
6. Orlando Gay Bars and Clubs
7. Orlando Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars
8. Gay Events in Orlando
9. Day Trips from Orlando

General Tips

Orlando has no specific gayborhood, but it has gay bars, cafés, and clubs scattered across the city. That said, Thornton Park and the Milk District are certainly favorites among the LGBTQ+ community. Despite regrettable back steps within Florida as a whole, Orlando remains a very LGBTQ+-friendly city, and you are highly unlikely to run into anything other than welcoming vibes.

The best time to visit Orlando is, like a lot of places, during the shoulder seasons of March/April/May and September/October. That way, you get good weather that isn’t swelteringly hot and fewer summer crowds. Avoid the school holiday season, especially as the theme parks draw in huge crowds during that time, meaning long queues. Orlando celebrates its Pride in October, which is, of course, amazing, but be sure to book accommodations well in advance.

Orlando is expensive in general; however, you can cut costs considerably by booking into a chain hotel or hostel. Visitors who intend to visit multiple attractions – and why wouldn’t you – might also consider investing in the Orlando Explorer Pass, which can be customized to include the attractions you intend to visit and can save you up to 35% on entrance fees.

Transportation & Airport Transfer

Getting to downtown from Orlando International Airport (MCO) is a breeze. The airport is located about 18 kilometers (11 miles) from downtown and offers several convenient options. The Lynx bus service (routes 11 and 51) is an economical choice, with one-way fares of just $2, taking around 40 minutes. For a quicker option, hop on the airport shuttle or grab a taxi, which costs about $35 to $45 and takes approximately 25 minutes. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available.

Orlando’s public transportation is extensive and user-friendly, with the Lynx bus system covering the city and surrounding areas. The I-Ride Trolley is another relatively cheap way to get around the International Drive area, with tickets costing only $2 for a single ride, $5 for a day pass, $7 for a three-day pass, and $9 for a five-day pass. It operates between 8 a.m. and 10:30 p.m. and stops at all the major attractions. For those planning to explore further in complete freedom, renting a car might be ideal, given the city's spread-out attractions. However, bear in mind that parking around the theme parks can be quite challenging and can cost around $25 for the day. Taxis also increase their prices for drop-offs there.

Gay Hotels in Orlando

There are no official gay hotels/resorts since the legendary Parliament House closed its doors a few years ago, but almost all hotels are gay-friendly.

Luxury

Grand Bohemian Hotel – This downtown hotel oozes sophistication, evident from the moment you pass into the welcoming lobby with its vaulted ceilings and Italian mosaics. This artistic flair runs throughout the hotel, from its on-site gallery to its award-winning restaurant, where jazz performances provide the mood to go with your meal. They have a stylish cocktail lounge, a spa, a rooftop pool with panoramic views, a whirlpool, and a fitness center. The luxurious rooms feature plush bedding, velvet drapes, marble bathrooms, and stunning city views. As you can imagine, none of this comes cheap, and the lowest-cost rooms start at around $300 a night.

Hyatt Regency Orlando – Located on International Drive, the Hyatt Regency is a newly renovated, luxury gay-friendly hotel next to the Orlando Convention Center and not far from ICON Park and Universal Studios. It’s huge, and the highlight of the hotel is the large palm tree-lined outdoor pools – one on the roof and the other downstairs with waterfalls, a waterslide, and luxurious cabanas. Other amenities include a 24-hour gym, a fully-equipped spa, and four restaurants, ranging from casual bites to fine dining experiences. The rooms are spacious and luxurious, with the cheapest rooms going for $250 – $300 a night.

Mid-Range 

Sheraton Lake Buena Vista – The official hotel for One Magical Weekend, is well-chosen as it offers the full, luxurious Orlando experience. The hotel features two expansive outdoor pools (where the Therapy Pool Parties take place), complete with a waterslide and poolside cabanas. They also have a rejuvenation spa, a 24/7 state-of-the-art fitness center, a volleyball court, a games room, an onsite convenience store, and two restaurants. Sheraton Lake is perfectly located just a ten-minute drive from Walt Disney World Resort, and shuttle buses run directly to all the big theme parks. The rooms are spacious and homely, with the cheapest costing around $150 a night.

Aloft Orlando Downtown – Alternatively, for those wanting to stay right in downtown Orlando, this hip hotel is a great option and is near many big attractions and LGBTQ+ bars. The chic, loft-inspired rooms boast plush platform beds, walk-in showers, and custom amenities by Bliss Spa. Facility-wise, they have a lively cocktail bar, a handy 24-hour pantry, a “re” zone with snacks, a “re SM Lounge” to socialize in, a gym, and an outdoor pool with stunning city views. Rooms cost around $200 a night.

The Delaney Hotel – Also in downtown Orlando near the nightlife hotspots, the Delaney Hotel describes itself as ‘a respite from the ordinary’ – an apt description for the boutique luxury hotel, which has modern art bedecked on all its walls. The rooms feel ultra-modern with plush bedding, streaming tablets, bathroom mirrors with integrated clocks, and rainfall showers. The hotel restaurant/bar Delaney’s Tavern is a particular highlight renowned for its creative gourmet cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. Rooms start at around $175 a night.

Budget

Orlando Palms – A four-star hotel at budget prices (around $75 a night)! The only catch is it's a little further out of the center – near Florida Mall – but nothing a short taxi ride can’t handle. The rooms are modern and spacious, if simplistic. There's a gym and a reasonably sized outdoor pool.

Rosen Inn Closest to Universal – Another good budget option is found with the Rosen Inn chain, especially for those whose focus is seeing the Universal theme parks, as it’s located just a short walk from Universal Orlando Resort and near International Drive. The comfortable rooms are well stocked with microwaves and mini-fridges. There’s also a gym, an outdoor pool, and the rather fun addition of a video arcade game room. The on-site restaurant, The Palms Dining Room, offers delicious breakfast buffets, and the International Pub is a place to relax and drink. There are also two other Rosen Inns nearby: Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista and Rosen Inn International Near the Park, which offer a similar standard at budget prices but are closer to different attractions. Rooms go for around $50 – $100 a night.

Sightseeing & Activities in Orlando

Walt Disney World Resort – To state the obvious, no visit to Orlando is complete without experiencing a little Walt Disney magic. The resort encompasses four incredible theme parks: Magic Kingdom, where you’ll find famous rides like Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean as well as attractions like the iconic Cinderella Castle; Epcot, with attractions that celebrate human achievement with futuristic technology and world cultures; Disney's Hollywood Studios, with a movie theme containing rides like Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge; and Disney's Animal Kingdom, a blend of nature and adventure featuring exotic animals and the awe-inspiring Pandora – The World of Avatar. Book tour →

Universal Orlando Resort – It’s a galvanizing debate on whether Universal or Disney wins when it comes to theme parks, so you’ll have to go to both and make up your own mind. The resort features three amazing theme parks: Universal Studios Florida, where guests can step into their favorite movies and TV shows with attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley; Universal's Islands of Adventure, home to thrilling rides and immersive lands such as The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade and Marvel Super Hero Island; and Universal's Volcano Bay, a tropical-themed water park with exciting slides and a relaxing wave pool. Book tour →

Lake Eola Park – The park centered around the beautiful Lake Eola is pure serenity. The lake itself is calming to look at with five of the six types of swans in the world found gliding along it. The skyline view is gorgeous with the usually blue sky reflecting beautifully off the glass buildings. The surrounding area features a scenic walking path, perfect for leisurely strolls or jogging, and visitors can join the swans on the lake via swan boat rides. The rainbow-colored Walt Disney Amphitheater is also photogenic and hosts various events and performances. Many diverse dining options exist in the area, as well as attractions like a Chinese pagoda and the Linton E. Allen Memorial Fountain, especially stunning when illuminated at night. Book tour →

International Drive – Commonly known as I-Drive, this is Orlando's version of the Las Vegas Strip and is home to renowned attractions like Icon Park, featuring The Wheel, a 400-foot observation wheel offering breathtaking views of the city. Visitors can also enjoy Madame Tussauds (like the London waxworks museum), Sea Life Orlando Aquarium, and Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum (displaying oddities like shrunken human heads and rare animal skeletons). The drive is packed with restaurants from all over the world, numerous shops peddling Disney paraphernalia, and outlet malls. The Drive hums at night with its fair share of bars and clubs, but they get ridiculously busy.

Lake Louisa State Park – This park is often aptly described as a ‘natural theme park for those with an outdoor spirit.’ The park spans over 4,500 acres and features rolling hills, three huge lakes, and thick forests ripe for exploration. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, and wildlife watching on the crisscrossing trails. The park's lakes, including Lake Louisa, offer opportunities for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Campsites and cozy cabins provide a perfect setting for an overnight stay.

Gatorland – Known as the “Alligator Capital of the World,” Gatorland offers visitors the chance to see thousands of alligators and crocodiles in a natural setting. Highlights include the exciting Gator Jumparoo Show, where alligators leap for food, and the Alligator Breeding Marsh, home to hundreds of alligators. Adventurous visitors can enjoy the Screamin' Gator Zip Line, soaring over alligator-infested waters, and the Stompin' Gator Off-Road Adventure. With interactive exhibits, a petting zoo, and opportunities to hold a baby alligator, it’s an exciting experience for all ages. Book tour →

LEGOLAND – LEGO geeks rejoice! This theme park features over 50 rides, shows, and attractions inspired by the popular LEGO brand. Highlights include Miniland USA, where iconic American landmarks are recreated with millions of LEGO bricks, and LEGO Ninjago World, offering interactive ninja-themed adventures. The LEGOLAND Water Park provides splashy fun with water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. Book tour →

Discovery Cove – Voted the Best Theme Park in Orlando by USA Today, this immersive experience is perfect for tourists looking to interact with marine life in a lush, tropical setting. This all-inclusive day resort provides the opportunity to swim with dolphins, snorkel among colorful fish and rays in The Grand Reef, and hand-feed exotic birds in the free-flight aviary. Visitors can relax on pristine beaches, float along a scenic lazy river, and enjoy unlimited access to freshly prepared meals and beverages throughout the day. Book tour →

Kennedy Space Center – Located about an hour east of Orlando, the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral offers an out-of-this-world experience. Visitors can learn about the Hubble Space Telescope, see real rockets, and enjoy interactive exhibits. The center also features the Shuttle Launch Experience and the Space Shuttle Atlantis, making it a must-visit for space enthusiasts. Book tour →

Winter Park – The lakes and canals of the historic city of Winter Park have led to its nickname, the self-proclaimed ‘Venice of America.’ Located just north of Orlando, visitors can take a boat along its canals and lakes or explore the picturesque Park Avenue, lined with boutique shops, gourmet restaurants, and art galleries. Book tour →

Pulse Memorial and Museum – A poignant and moving tribute dedicated to the victims and survivors of the Pulse nightclub tragedy of June 12, 2016. The memorial site, located at the former nightclub, serves as a place of reflection and remembrance, featuring a tranquil garden, beautiful artwork, and tributes honoring the 49 lives lost. The adjacent museum, currently under development, will educate visitors about the events of that night, the impact on the community, and the ongoing efforts to promote love, acceptance, and unity. Book tour →

Restaurants and Cafes in Orlando

Lazy Moon – This restaurant actually has three locations across the city and is hands down the best pizza in Orlando. They claim that the pizzas are “so big, you’ll need both hands to tame them,” and size – when it comes to pizza – does indeed matter.

Hamburger Mary’s Bar & Grille – Located on West Church Street, Hamburger Mary’s is as much about the camp experience as it is about the food. Known for its cabaret dinner shows and Broadway brunches, it’s a place where you can enjoy a Mary Burger or Fried Twinkies with a cocktail and a side of sass.

Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ – Situated in Lake Buena Vista near the Disney Parks, this Southern-style restaurant pays homage to Florida’s agricultural heritage with farm-to-table cuisine. Chef Art Smith, known as Oprah’s personal chef, offers dishes like Fried Chicken & Doughnuts and Hummingbird Cake. Enjoy handcrafted moonshine cocktails on the breezy back porch for a true taste of Southern comfort.

Quantum Leap Winery – Half LGBTQ+ owned, Quantum Leap Winery is a great retreat for wine and cider lovers. Tucked away on Wilfred Drive, it offers a wide selection of wines from premier growing regions. Pair your wine with cheese, charcuterie, and chocolate, or enjoy offerings from various food trucks that frequent the winery.

Domu – Domu means “a dream come true,” and if you happen to dream of amazing noodles, then yours will indeed come true when visiting here. The restaurant is renowned for delicious house-made noodles and creative small plates with three locations in the chain, the most central being located in Orlando’s Mills 50 district. Order a Wasabi Ginger Margarita during happy hour if you want a good kick to start the night.

King Bao – In the heart of Mills 50, you’ll definitely want to get your hands on the king’s buns. Bao buns, that is, which are stuffed with inventive ingredients like firecracker shrimp and Korean beef. This hotspot also serves loaded tots and sweet bao.

Orlando Gay Bars and Clubs

District Dive – A trendy pop culture-themed bar just next to the club Southern Nights, this local spot provides a more relaxed setting for socializing before heading to the club. District Dive features cozy, industrial-chic decor, an extensive drink menu, two pool tables, darts, a pinball machine, and a spacious patio.

Southern Nights Orlando – Located in the heart of downtown in the Milk District, Southern Nights is one of Orlando's most popular LGBTQ+ clubs and offers a lot of cheesy fun among a welcoming crowd. There’s a large dance floor, video bar, and outdoor area. Regular events include drag shows, burlesque shows, and themed nights.

Savoy Orlando – Found in Ivanhoe Village, Savoy Orlando is the second of the two big gay clubs in Orlando. It doesn’t look like much from the outside, but once inside, you’ll find a multi-roomed club with lively go-go dancers, drag shows, and DJs, as well as a pool table and an outdoor patio. Every day has a happy hour, and there’s never a cover charge. So, how wrong can you really go?

Hank's Bar – Hank's is one of the oldest gay bars in Orlando and has that laid-back neighborhood gay bar feel. It’s located on Edgewater Drive and has friendly staff, affordable drinks, a pool table, an old-school jukebox, and an outdoor patio in its favor.

Barcodes Orlando – A casual gay bar catering to a mature crowd. Located on Edgewater Drive, your average night has a relaxed atmosphere with pool tables, dartboards, and TVs. To spice it up a bit, though, they have drag race viewing parties, an underwear-only night on Sundays, and occasional kink nights catering to the pup community.

Stiffy's Orlando – Part of the Southern Nights family, Stiffy's is a cocktail bar that caters to the bear and leather community. It hosts themed nights with scantily clad male dancers, creating a unique and exciting atmosphere, and has regular fetish events.

Orlando Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars

Club Orlando – This bathhouse is just as much fun during the day as it is at night. It’s located just a few minutes from downtown and has an outdoor heated swimming pool, relaxation areas both inside and outside, a hot tub, whirlpool, dry sauna, a well-equipped gym, multiple dark rooms, and a “man cave.” They also run special events like pup and jock nights. A one-time membership is $14, and $23 with a locker.

Gay Events in Orlando

Come Out With Pride Orlando – Orlando’s Pride celebrations take place later in the Pride season in October to coincide with Coming Out Day every year. The centerpiece of the event is the Pride Parade downtown, featuring colorful floats, marching bands, and various community groups. The festivities afterward take place around Lake Eola Park with multiple stages showcasing high-energy performances by local and national artists, drag shows, and DJ sets. The evening culminates with a spectacular fireworks display over Lake Eola. Date: October 29th, 2024.

One Magical Weekend – One of the world’s largest LGBTQ+ pride and music festivals! One Magical Weekend takes place at Walt Disney World Resort, including pool parties, themed parties, and epic dance parties…basically lots of amazing parties. Highlights include their signature event Riptide at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, featuring the best international DJs and the opportunity to enjoy the vast array of slides and water rides in the park between sets. Dates: May 29 – June 2nd, 2025.

Red Shirt Days/Gay Days – Since 1991, on the first Saturday of June every year, LGBTQ+ individuals hold a “gay day” at Magic Kingdom where participants wear red shirts to create a visible statement of unity and support for LGBTQ+ rights. This event includes group rides, meet-ups, and photo opportunities throughout the park.

The Pride Cup – Shattering the stereotype that gays don’t like sports, this event is an annual LGBTQ+ sports competition organized by the KindRED Pride Foundation in early June. Participants can compete in basketball, soccer, volleyball, pickleball, golf, kickball, and more.

Love Is Universal Nights – Universal Studios also has its own Pride celebrations every year to show solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community. Held at Universal Orlando Resort’s Red Coconut Club every Thursday and Friday evening through June, guests can enjoy exclusive drinks, merchandise, camp live entertainment, and a DJ.

Annual Pulse Remembrance Ceremony – This ceremony honors the 49 lives lost in the Pulse nightclub shooting on June 12, 2016. Held at the Pulse Interim Memorial, the event is a poignant reminder of the tragedy and a celebration of the resilience of Orlando’s LGBTQ+ community.

Day Trips from Orlando

Daytona Beach – This famous sandy stretch of beach makes for a wonderful day trip. Besides sunbathing and swimming, there’s Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier with amusement rides, arcades, and cultural attractions like the Museum of Arts and Sciences and the historic Ponce Inlet Lighthouse. The city of Daytona is also renowned for motorsports, hosting the annual Daytona 500 at the Daytona International Speedway. Book tour →

Clearwater Beach – Those willing to take a longer 106-mile drive west of Orlando can visit the perfection that is Clearwater Beach with its pristine white sands and clear turquoise waters. This beach destination is perfect for sunbathing, water sports, and beachside dining. Its other attractions are the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and the iconic Pier 60, which offers daily sunset celebrations with street performers and vendors. Book tour →

St. Augustine – Just a two-hour drive from Orlando, St. Augustine is the oldest European-settled town in the U.S. It’s also named after the patron saint of brewers – do with that information what you will. The town has a cobblestoned National Historic Landmark District, the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, its own beaches, and a variety of shops, restaurants, and historic sites, making it worthy of a day visit. Book tour →

Mount Dora – This charming LGBTQ+-friendly lakeside town is lovingly called Mount Adore by its residents and is renowned for its quaint downtown, antique shops, tree-lined streets, cozy cafes, and historic architecture. The town hosts several annual festivals, including the Mount Dora Arts Festival and the Mount Dora Craft Fair, attracting artists and crafters from across the country. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy boating, fishing, and scenic views at Lake Dora.

Featured image by Eduardo Neri Du from Pixabay

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