While the thought of whisking away on a much needed holiday sounds blissful, you may not always have room in the budget for a getaway. That doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some time away from home in a vacation setting. We’ve gathered a list of Orlando resort dates for your next date night to get you in that vacation state of mind, no overnight stay required.
Hotel Bars
Wet your whistle while whetting your appetite at one of these stylish resort bars.
The Lounge, The Alfond Inn
Nothing says lavish quite like a boutique hotel. The Alfond Inn in Winter Park is nothing short of upscale. Stroll into the Inn’s lounge anytime Tuesday – Saturday between 9am and 9pm for a welcoming and posh experience. Wine and dine from the delectable menu of Hamilton’s Kitchen, the on-site restaurant filled with southern charm.
The Bösendorfer Lounge, Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando
The Bösendorfer Lounge is closed for refurbishment as of November 2022. We do not have a reopening date, but will update once we have more information. Once it reopens, be sure to steal away to the majestic atmosphere of The Bösendorfer Lounge for classic cocktails with a twist.
Image credit: Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando
Peacock Alley, Waldorf Astoria Orlando
Amid the hustle and bustle of the Waldorf Astoria Orlando main lobby lies the centrally located lobby bar, Peacock Alley. Elevate your conversation and your cocktails among the menu of New York traditions. Bar service begins at 12pm and lingers well into the evening.
Try one of the many crafted libations including the classic Peacock Egg. This signature drink contains fresh lemonade, lavender tea, blue curacao, and Bombay Sapphire gin mixed inside of a hollowed ice egg. Pair with small bites from the food menu.
Jake’s American Bar, Loews Royal Pacific Hotel
Captain Jake McNally invites adventurous travelers to delight in a recess at Jake’s American Bar inside Loews Royal Pacific Hotel. Sip on island spirits of the South Pacific while chowing down on hearty plates. Open daily for lunch and dinner until 11pm fly in for some fun with your co-pilot. And don’t forget to stop by the seaplane in the lagoon for an Insta-worthy photo op.
READ MORE: The Best Restaurants at Universal Orlando for Date Night
The Wellborn, downtown
Local history comes alive around every nook and cranny at The Wellborn. The intimate courtyard at this boutique hotel invites you to disappear among the teeming trees and flowers surrounded by three historic buildings. Listen to the soft splashing of the English fountain while you sip a cocktail; like the Best Friends made with purple gin, vanilla, lavender and lemon.
Bites and drinks are available Tuesday – Thursday from 5pm – 1am, Friday and Saturday from 5pm – 2am and Sunday from 11am-5pm.
Parking in the lot behind the Wellborn is PROHIBITED. Violators will be towed. Parking is available in the following areas:
- Any area that says “Wellborn Guest Parking”
- On Lucerne, in front of the Wellborn Hotel. Please do not double park or park in the roundabout; you will be towed.
- On the bottom floor of the parking garage, located on Delany. (available after 5 pm Tuesday-Friday and all day Saturday & Sunday)
Splash the day away in these watery oases perfect for any season.
Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate
Set your getaway sights on this Four Diamond resort known for leisure and fun. Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate has an abundance of activities to offer for day guests. Plunge into the resort pool with fountains, a water tower and slide or relax by the adults-only pool.
Of course, you can’t skip the 850 feet of R&R along the lazy river. Golfers will delight in knowing they can practice their putting on the mini-golf course for an extra fee. Stick around for dinner at Zen or David’s Club, two of the on-site restaurants. Day passes start at $40/person.
Image credit: Omni Orlando Resort ChampionsGate
Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach
Nothing says vacation like salty air and crashing waves. And seasonal Daycation Pool Passes are available in certain months of the year at Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach! Take in the scenic ocean views and live music (on the weekends) while lounging poolside. Weekday passes range from $10-$25 per person and weekend passes range from $20-$50 per person and include self parking.
If you’ve grabbed a weekend pass, be sure you bring your appetite to indulge in the weekend Brunch Remix. Offered from 11am-3pm every Saturday and Sunday, there is a dish for every palate to enjoy. Other perks include a live DJ on Saturday and live duo entertainment on Sundays.
Image credit: Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach
Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek
Pretend you’re in a faraway resort without leaving Orlando at Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek. Day pass perks include access to the resort-style pool (it’s heated), lazy river, water slide and hot tubs. You’ll also enjoy poolside service from the resort’s Beech Bar & Grille. Day passes start at $20 and cabanas begin at $175. FYI: a parking fee of $25 applies.
Read our guide to Day Passes to Central Florida Resorts from ResortPass for a full list of our favorite local resorts and hotels offering day use access for non-overnight guests with passes.
Retreat, relax and rejuvenate at one of these spa respites.
The Spa at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes
Schedule an appointment at The Ritz-Carlton’s spa for 40,000-square feet of bliss.The featured service is Grande Indulgence Massage. It includes a full body massage, a warm stone enhancement, scalp treatment and keratin gloves for the hands and feet. The spa is open daily.
Guests of the spa are invited to enjoy the fitness center, outdoor lap pool and Vitale spa café.
Image credit: The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes
The Spa, Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort
Exfoliate, regenerate and radiate after an excursion at Four Seasons Resort Orlando’s spa. Indoor and outdoor tranquility lounges are available to decompress after your treatment. Utilize the chic showers and whirlpool.
Just in time for fall, all of you pumpkin spice lovers will want to try the Spiced Pumpkin Purifying Body Polish. Close your eyes and breathe in deep to experience the joy of falling autumn leaves and warm scents during this 80-minute treatment.
Rock Spa, Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach
Make relaxation a staple in your routine all year long with a Rock Spa membership at Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach. The Gold Record Membership ($99/month) allows for one 50-minute massage or facial per month and a resort day pass for all recreation areas the day of your appointment. The Platinum Record Membership ($149/month) gives you one 80-minute massage or facial per month, a resort day pass for all recreation areas on the day of your treatment and unlimited use of the gym all month long.
Both memberships include complimentary child care for up to two hours (ages 5-15), unlimited access to the Spa Lounge and Steam Room, 20% off additional services, 10% off retail spa products, VIP backstage passes to Rock Sparties and exclusive offers on all Hard Rock Hotel has to offer.
Rock & Rhythm treatment room | Image credit: Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach
Mandara Spa, WDW Swan and Dolphin Resort
Mandara Spa at Walt Disney World’s Swan and Dolphin Resort will transport you to the Indonesian island of Bali with its lavishly dark wood and ornamental arch displays. Remnants of a cultural temple surround the Spa to evoke a soothing and peaceful temperament. The interior Tea Garden and Meditation Garden allow you time to unwind in total tranquility.
Image credit: Mandara Spa
Resort Crawls
Spend a few hours traveling from one locale to another during a Universal Resort crawl.
I suggest you start your sipping tryst at Universal Resort’s CityWalk since it closes before the resort bars. One of my favorite spots at CityWalk has always been Pat O’Briens. I can order a favorite beer while tuning in to the dueling pianos. Sing along! I also like the cozy feel as if you were hanging at a friend’s place. Pat O’Briens is currently open nightly 5pm – 2am.
Image credit: Pat O’Briens
Board the water taxi and take the short ride to Hard Rock Hotel where you will head straight to the Velvet Bar. Party like a rock star at this plush and fashionable lobby bar. Velvet Bar is open daily from 5pm-2am.
Feel free to walk to the next stop at Loews Royal Pacific or take the water taxi again. Upon arrival, seek out the Orchid Court Lounge and Sushi Bar for sweeping tropical paradise views of a South Pacific lagoon. Here you have generous options of sushi, sashimi and appetizers that will pair nicely with a Japanese whisky, sake or beer. The Lounge is open daily 8pm – 11pm.
The last stop is Cabana Bay Beach Resort’s Swizzle Lounge. Use the stroll from Loews Royal Pacific Resort to enjoy free-flowing conversation. When you’ve arrived at the retro Swizzle Lounge, find a comfy seat and pour over the drink menu filled with nods to vintage concoctions. The hard part will be deciding which one to try first. Swizzle Lounge is open Sunday-Thursday from 5pm – 12am; Friday and Saturday from 1pm – 12am.
Image credit: Swizzle Lounge
Water taxis typically run until 2am. If you choose to forego transportation, each stop is easily walkable. Remember to drink responsibly and utilize a ride-share service when necessary.
Here are some other resort crawls to try.
Festivals/Events
Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic
The esteemed Food and Wine Classic at Swan and Dolphin is back and better than ever! This epicurean display of creative artistry for the palate is a more intimate, VIP style for foodies. This year’s dates are November 11 and 12th from 5:30pm-9pm both nights.
The tickets are $165/person. There is a discounted nightly rate for those attending the event; however, attendees will need to call 888.828.8850 for pricing details.
Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin
Christmas at Gaylord Palms
Is it ever too early to start thinking about your Christmas plans? I think not! Christmas cheer will be delivered starting November 18, 2022 and running through Jan 1, 2023 during Christmas at Gaylord Palms which will be in full swing with an abundance of lights, decorations and activities.
Returning this year is the beloved ICE! and we couldn’t be more thrilled! Chiseled moments from “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” is how your eyes will be filled. Walk along the Grinch’s story to see him finish in Whoville glory. The grumpy grinch may steal the show, but we know in the end his heart does grow.
Attendees can expect many other favored activities like plummeting slides, icy coasters, snowball makers, elf training, gingerbread decorating and Mrs. Claus’ traditions.
Harbor Nights at Loews Portofino Bay Resort
Discover la dolce vita on this Italian-inspired date night along the picturesque harbor of the Portofino Bay Hotel, on Friday, November 25, 6:30-9pm.
Enjoy select wines and unlimited gourmet bites from the resort’s top restaurants, along with a live band and incredible opera performances.
VIP tickets include additional hors d’oeuvres, exclusive food and wine stations, and special reserved seating. Dance beneath the twinkling lights and witness the illumination of the piazza’s grand Christmas tree on this holiday edition of Harbor Nights. You must be 21 or older to attend this event.
$79 and up per person
Image credit: Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
Orlando Resort Date Restaurants
Dive into one of these dining establishments for tasteful morsels of gastronomical fare. Bon Appetit!
Disney Resort Restaurants
It’s so magical to get a pinch of pixie dust by dining at Disney without needing a theme park ticket. Explore our favorite Romantic Restaurants at Disney Resort Hotels.
Desserts at Olivia’s at Old Key West Disney hotel – Dani Meyering
Highball & Harvest and Knife & Spoon, The Ritz-Carlton Orlando
It’s hard to beat the freshness and comfort of farm-to-table dining. Highball & Harvest at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, delivers Southern flavors using seasonal fresh fruits and herbs. The menu dovetails with the rustic décor creating an elegantly laid-back vibe.
Highball & Harvest Operating hours
Breakfast: 7am-11pm
Lunch: 11:30am – 2:30pm
Bar Bites: 11:30am – 10pm
Dinner: 5:30pm – 10pm
Capa, Four Seasons Resort Orlando
Ascend seventeen floors of the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort to the upscale Capa restaurant.
Capa features two outdoor terraces ideal for enjoying the cooler evenings of a Florida fall. Seafood and mouthwatering wood-grilled offerings seasoned with Spanish flare fill the menu. Take a stab at the signature 32 oz Prime Porterhouse or Blackened Chilean Seabass for the main dish. The restaurant is open daily 5pm-10pm.
Make reservations at sunset for added charm.
Bull & Bear, Waldorf Astoria Orlando
The stately Bull & Bear at Waldorf Astoria Orlando is an excellent pick for a special evening out. Tableside preparations, carefully curated cocktails and innovative vittles are what come together to make Bull & Bear one of OpenTable’s top 100 restaurants in the U.S. Diners can expect impeccable service to compliment the lamb or chateaubriand.
Order a traditional beverage to sip as you drink in dialogue with your love. Bull & Bear is open daily 6pm-10pm.
Image credit: Bull & Bear
Estefan Kitchen Orlando, Margaritaville Resort Orlando
Calling SunsetWalk on Margaritaville Resort Orlando home, Estefan Kitchen Orlando is a surefire way to liven up date night. From the food to the music, all five senses will be invigorated with Latin notes at this Cuban cultural hub of atmospheric flavors. The menu is full of classic dishes, gluten free and vegetarian options. Leave time to take a hand-in-hand stroll down SunsetWalk after dinner.
ALSO TRY:
- 7593 Chophouse, Reunion Resort
- California Grill, Disney’s Contemporary Resort
- Hamilton’s Kitchen, The Alfond Inn
Golf Courses
You and your love can swing your way into fun at one of these golf courses. No membership required!
Walt Disney World Golf Courses
The beloved Mickey Mouse welcomes golfers from all skill levels to tee off at one of four courses. Three courses are a full 18 holes; Palm, Magnolia and Lake Buena Vista. Oak Trail is a 9-hole walking course. Magnolia is the longest while Lake Buena Vista is a favorite among avid golfers I know. Players are urged to book a tee time online. Golf carts are thoroughly sanitized between guests. Prices vary depending on course.
Looking for something a little different? Try footgolf! It is played either before or after a 9-hole booking on Disney’s Oak Trail. Players will play traditional golf on the blue pins and footgolf along the orange pins. Footgolf follows the same rules as the traditional golf game. Bookings can be reserved after 2:30pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Advanced reservations are required.
Omni Orlando Resort ChampionsGate
Omni Orlando Resort ChampionsGate is home to two championship courses designed by Greg Norman, golfer and architect. The International Course is a link-style fairway and the National Course is a traditional American-style green. The blend of styles will certainly make it challenging to keep your ball out of the watery grave. Golfers can search tee times online for current rates through the booking option.
If you’re looking to up your game, the Resort is also the world headquarters for the David Leadbetter Golf Academy. They will be happy to take you from duffer to pro.
Streamsong Resort
Grab your sticks and make a tee time at Streamsong Resort. This top golf club offers three Scottish link-style courses for golf enthusiasts to drive and putt their way through an outdoor date. Streamsong Red, Streamsong Blue and Streamsong Black each come with their own challenges through tall dunes, sunken ponds and native grasses.
Public guest golf play is only available May 27 – September 30th.
Image credit: Streamsong Resort
Mission Inn Resort and Club
It’s not every day you have the opportunity to play a piece of history. Take a short drive to Howey-in-the-Hills where you can read the green on a course that’s been standing for over 100 years. George O’Neil created the El Campeon course at Mission Inn Resort and Club in 1917 and incorporated 85-foot elevation changes, something unusual for the Florida landscape. The Resort offers a second newer course that is much different from its counterpart. Las Colinas was built in 1992 and received “Best New Course” title by Golf Digest the same year. El Campeon is $59 plus tax per player with cart. Las Colinas is $49 plus tax per player with cart. Fore!
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Feature image credit: Omni Orlando Resort at Championsgate