Achieve something truly special this year, and open yourself up to more adventures in Orlando. There’s always time for embracing quiet introspection throughout the coming months, but there’s also no harm in adding a bit of metropolitan magic to your goals. Whether this takes the form of a mysterious meal involving eating in the dark or cheering on the Solar Bears, make your 2024 bucket list count with this list of 10 unforgettable things to do in the city.
1. Experience a star-lit performance with views
Grab your fedora or blindingly bedazzled flares for the spectacular Concert Under The Stars series in Orlando. Having already taken over rooftops of premier venues in the glamorous likes of Miami and San Diego, the vintage sounds of iconic music are making their nostalgic way to the equally old-school and elegant Enzo’s on the Lake–a traditional Italian restaurant in Longwood.
Over the coming months, music lovers can book their place on select dates at star-lit performances inspired by the one, the only Frank Sinatra, or unleash their inner dancing queen during a sensational tribute to ABBA served with a side of classic cocktails!
2. Feel the atmosphere at Kia Center
Sure, it’s nice to have a family celebration or casual get-together with friends to look forward to but sometimes the year just needs a little organized entertainment push to really bring things together. See the Orlando Magic or Solar Bears or get tickets to an electrifying live music event you won’t forget any time soon. From Hozier and Bad Bunny arriving in May to the NBA playoffs, and so much more, browse through Kia Center’s calendar to make 2024 count,
3. Be surrounded by countless candles at a special venue
If you have yet to experience a Candlelight concert, why wait until next year? Add attending one of these eye-opening performances to your 2024 bucket list. Talented musicians, including string quartets and pianists, are taking to the stages inside some of Orlando’s finest venues, such as The Azalea Lodge at Mead Gardens, to put awe-inspiring twists on your favorite music. From the best of The Beatles to a jazz concert celebrating Aretha Franklin, there’s a Candlelight program to suit all music tastes.
4. Time travel to the 80s at The Abbey
Continuing on a live entertainment roll, The Abbey is a pretty impressive event venue in Orlando worth turning to for a variety of thrilling options. Throwback dance parties, comedy nights, disco brunch, and Halloween specials are only some of the exciting experiences to be had at The Abbey. Don’t miss out on discovering what lies behind that giant marquee and create some new memories inside an iconic place.
5. Tick off visits to all of Orlando’s theme parks
Where should you even begin when it comes to checking off all the city’s world-famous theme parks? Perhaps you’re a die-hard fan and have already been on every last Universal Studios ride or have taken on Expedition Everest at Walt Disney World® Resort one too many times. Regardless, there’s no harm in adding a fairytale and action-packed spark to your year. Spend a day at Minion Land, take the kids to LEGOLAND ® Florida Resort, explore all six lands at Magic Kingdom® Park, and more.
6. Discover the ultimate enigmatic dining experience
Dining in the Dark is a gastronomical experience perfect for the adventurous gourmet who’s willing to add some foodie fun to their bucket list. Lower the mandatory blindfold and prepare to put your tastebuds to the test while enjoying a delicious three-course meal. Sweet will be sweeter, spicy spicier, and distinguishing between subtle textures all the more difficult. Are you up for a flavorful challenge this 2024?
7. Become an Orlando book worm
Nearly everyone has a terrifyingly mental, sometimes hard-copy, list of books they want to have read by the time the year is out. Most are unrealistic and nearly impossible to complete—such is life. However, joining your local library might be the perfect motivator. The Orange County Library System gives bookworms access to 15 public branches, including the beloved Orlando Public Library.
8. Make seeing beautiful things your theme for autumn
This October, make your way to Central Park for the annual Winter Park Autumn Art Festival where local artists, food vendors, and live entertainment come together for a vibrant event in downtown Winter Park. From the poster unveiling and kickoff party on September 12 right through the children’s art activities and music between October 12 and 13, don’t miss out on the 51st annual Autumn Art Festival.
9. Shift gears in a biker’s paradise
And the festivities continue with Biketoberfest® on October 17 until October 20. If you missed it over the last 31 years, why not make 2024 the year you add it to your bucket list? Biketoberfest® is THE place to be if you want to see some mighty fine motorcycles. This rally lasting four days is a great opportunity to discover what’s to be loved about life on two wheels as well as meet fellow enthusiasts.
10. Keep up to date with the latest Orlando food trends
The city of Orlando is already home to some great burger joints, sushi spots, and let’s not forget fabulous bakeries, but there are also some new kids on the culinary block this year. Michelin-starred chef Michael Collantes opened Bar Kada this year—a sake lounge offering a menu with an “international perspective”. Boxer and Clover, a stall in the East End Market, has been winning over healthy appetites for authentic barbecue with its perfectly seasoned and smoked meat since March. Places like these and plenty more are keeping the food scene in Orlando interesting, so get out there and discover some brand-new concepts this year.