Photo Courtsey of Harp and Celt

Fiddler’s Green Irish Pub and Eatery

Fiddler’s Green Irish Pub and Eatery has been a staple on West Fairbanks Avenue in Winter Park since 1996. This delicious eatery and pub was even featured on the Food Network “The Best Of” series. With an impressive happy hour (4 – 7 p.m. Monday-Friday with dollar off pints) and a wide selection of domestic, imported and Irish favorites in both bottles and on tap, Fiddler’s is a favorite with the local college students. The menu offers authentic Irish grub, such as corned beef and cabbage, Irish stew and Shepherds Pie, but also offers the typical burgers, salads and sandwiches.

544 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, FL 32789
407-645-2050; www.fiddlersgreenorlando.com

The Harp and Celt

This place is so spectacular that even President Obama stopped by during his visit to Central Florida in 2011. Built and designed by a Dublin carpenter, The Harp and Celt shines with an authentic 1900s turn-of-the-century look and feel. Free Wi-Fi, live soccer and rugby coverage on the tube only makes the beer at this place taste better. The Harp restaurant (located upstairs) serves up gourmet food with professional service at reasonable prices while The Celt (on the first floor) is a pub proud of its pours.  There is a wide selection of bottled beers, imported and domestic wines and spirits, plus homemade Irish cuisine.

25 South Magnolia Avenue, Orlando, Fl 32801
407-481-2928; www.harpandcelt.com

Scruffy Murphy’s Irish Pub

Located in the adorable neighborhood of College Park, Scruffy Murphy’s is good ole Irish pub serves up a menu of Irish favorites, such as Scotch Egg with Bushmills, apple mint chutney, bangers and mash and traditional potato pancakes boxty. But not to worry if you don’t have adventurous taste buds, they also serve the pub standards like hamburgers, fries and onion rings. Couple the grub with a signature cocktail like a Sour Apple-tini, Pomegrante Martini or Ferocious Kitty or opt for a delicious beer. Live music, Irish Breakfast and trivia games are detailed on the website schedule of events.

2625 Edgewater Drive, Orlando, Fl 32804
407-835-7150; www.scruffymurphysorlando.com

Photo Courtsey of Walt Disney World

There are plenty of options in the realm of nightlife in the area, but some of the best spots are nestled inside of hotels. Some offer high-energy music aimed at the party crowd, others draw guests in with a catchy theme and the rest go with subtlety. One thing is for sure, Central Florida has plenty of hotel bars to choose from, and we have listed our favorites to help you find your perfect match.

Rix Lounge at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

The lounge was designed to create an atmosphere of lavish comfort and every inch of this 300-seat/5,000-square-foot upscale lounge is certainly posh. The interior of the bar is bold, draped with grand fabrics, splashes of color and textures all inspired by Spanish and Mediterranean style. The menu is filled with specialty drinks and delicious tapas-style appetizers such as the chorizo flat bread and the seafood cappuccino.

Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
1000 West Buena Vista Drive, Orlando 32830
www.rix-lounge.com

Velvet Bar at Universal’s Hard Rock Hotel

This is the place to party like a rockstar. The bar is decked out with zebra print arm chairs, neon flashes of light and rock ‘n roll memorabilia adorning the walls. Grab a cocktail or settle in with some appetizers while you take in the sounds of music legends streaming over the speakers. Opt for outdoor seating on The Veranda when you need some fresh air.

Universal’s Hard Rock Hotel
5800 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL, 32819
www.hardrockhotelorlando.com

The Bösendorfer Lounge at Grand Bohemian Hotel

This local spot was voted the “Best Place to Sip Martinis” by the Orlando Business Journal and “Best Hotel Bar” by Orlando Magazine. Combine the awards, the hip atmosphere and live entertainment, and it is easy to see why Bosendorfer Lounge is always packed. Also make sure to spot the original works of art including “Daniel in the Lion’s Den” and “Presentation of Salome” by Florida artist William Russell Walker and “Entraptored” by Mexico City artist Susan Contreras.

Grand Bohemian Hotel
325 South Orange Ave., Orlando, FL 32801
www.grandbohemianhotel.com

Rocks At The Peabody Hotel Orlando

Grab a seat, order up your favorite in cocktail and settle for the fantastic live entertainment at Rocks.  Set inside The Peabody Hotel, this high-energy bar offers  bottled beers from around the world, an extensive wine list and carefully crafted cocktails. The surroundings and exceptional service is the perfect complement to sleek decor.

The Peabody Hotel Orlando
9801 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819
www.peabodyorlando.com

Photo Courtsey of Enzian Theater

When you are planning for a night out on the town with a group or a quick catch up with a long-lost friend, a bar seems like a good choice. Most offer great people watching,  tasty drinks and fairly extensive menus. Here are a few of those types of bars that will do more than wet your whistle.

Ember

A laid-back European vibe with detailed Mediterranean design provides a great backdrop for an evening out with friends. The menu highlights creative daily features and smaller plates for sharing, soups, salads and entrees. The outdoor seating area is ideal for a nice breezy night.

42 W. Central Blvd. Orlando, FL 32801
407-849-5200; www.emberorlando.com

Cafe Tu Tu Tango

From the moment you pull up to Cafe Tu Tu Tango you’ll immediately notice the theme: art. The building is jam packed with sculptures and art work covering every nook and cranny. The atmosphere is exploding with chatter, energetic music and live performances (belly dancers and fire eaters). To top it off, the food holds your attention just as much as the theme. It’s tapas style, so sharing is encouraged, Plus, everything on the menu is delicious.

8625 International Drive, Orlando, Florida 32819
407-248-2222; www.cafetututango.com

Eden Bar at Enzian

Nestled next to the Enzian Theater, the Eden Bar is a unique indie-film theater and the location of the nationally recognized Florida Film Festival. This outdoor restaurant and bar offers views of a 400-year-old oak tree, green gardens and a bubbling fountain. Daily happy hour specials from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. offer one-of-a-kind drink creations such as the Pear Basil Martini and the Cucumber Gin Mojito.

1300 South Orlando Avenue  Maitland, FL 32751
407-629-0054; ww.enzian.org

Photo Courtsey of Loews Hotels

A romantic hotel is the perfect backdrop for love to blossom. For those special occasions like Valentine’s Day and anniversaries or just for a relaxed couples weekend away, choosing the right hotel can be tricky.  Here is our list for the top five most romantic hotels in Central Florida.

Grand Bohemian Hotel
Located in the heart of downtown Orlando, this hotel sparkles with an early-20th-century Euro-Bohemian decor. Need help impressing that special someone? Then opt for the Heart’s Desire package, which includes a couples massage, a One Amber Higgins designed heart necklace and a $170 food and beverage gift card.
(325 S. Orange Ave, Orlando, 866-663-0024)

Universal’s Portofino Bay Hotel
Everything about this hotel from the architecture to the themed swimming pools feels as if you are roaming the streets of the famed seaside village of Portofino, Italy. Take a romantic stroll with your loved one to watch the sunset over the bay.
(5601 Universal Blvd, Orlando, 407-503-1000)

Bohemian Hotel Celebration
With a charming blend of Old Florida elegance and contemporary luxury, the Bohemian Hotel in Celebration is a great hotel pick. The nearby downtown area of this unique neighborhood offers boutique shops, dining and entertainment options for a fantastic night out on the town.
(700 Bloom Street, Celebration, 407-566-6000)

EO Inn & Urban Spa
The EO Inn & Urban Spa is a 17-room, deluxe-suite property tucked away in the trendy neighborhood of Thornton Park. Here you can purchase the I Love You package including a 50-minute couples massage and a $50 gift certificate to Hue Restaurant.
(227 N Eola Dr, Orlando, 407-481-8485)

Universal’s Royal Pacific Resort
Feel like going island hopping in the South Pacific? Then head over to Universal’s Royal Pacific Resort. The property is breathtaking with lush tropical landscaping, white sandy beach and lagoon-style swimming pool. Dine on exceptional cuisine with your honey at Emeril’s Tchoup Chop.
(6300 Hollywood Way, Orlando, 407-503-3000)

Photo Courtsey of Aiguille Rock Climbing Center

Orlando has much more than just incredible outlet shopping and the wonders of Mickey Mouse, in fact, it has quite a few under-the-radar attractions, which are a bundle of fun. Even the experienced Orlando traveler may find a few hidden gems on our top 10 list of off-the-beaten path activities and attractions.

Adventures in Florida
Ever thought about taking a kayak or canoe out to see the sun set? The Full Moon Paddle offered by Adventures in Florida lets you experience the setting of the sun and rising of the moon in a whole new way. They even encourage you to sip on a glass of wine in the moonlight.

Truffles & Trifles
This is a surefire way to have fun and bump up your cooking cred at the same time. The College Park-based business has been going strong for 27 years, if that tells you anything. Once you arrive, you’ll split into groups of four or five. One group is usually in charge of appetizers, another handles the entree and so on.

RDV Sportsplex Ice Den
Chill out with a lap around the ice rink at the RDV Sportsplex. Don’t forget to wrap up to stay warm.

Forever Florida’s Rawhide Round-Up
Saddle up for the ride of your life! Learn the basics of herding cattle on a three-hour horseback adventure. Then chow down on a delicious lunch at Cypress Restaurant.

Orlando Circus School
Possibly one of the most unusual attractions around, the Orlando Circus School lets you swing, hang and bounce until your heart is content. Try you hand at the German Wheel, flip out on the trampoline or challenge the family members to a Circus Family Day duel. This is one place where acting like a clown is highly encouraged.

Aiguille Rock Climbing Center
Climb around Spider-Man style at the Aiguille Indoor Rock Climbing Center. Everyone from beginners to advanced climbers can enjoy the climbing walls because each course is color coded to indicate levels of difficulty. Not a climber? Try the hard-core yoga class instead to increase concentration and muscle strength.

Paddle Board Orlando
Stand up paddleboarding is fun for all ages and activity level. This is a great way to explore Central Florida from a different vantage point. The longboards are very stable and the paddle motion strengthens your core and balance. Its a fun way to get in a little workout.

Farris & Foster’s Fine Chocolates
Have you ever wanted to create a personalized chocolate concoction? Farris & Foster’s Fine Chocolates lets you become a chocolatier during what they call a “chocolate party.” By the way, you also get to sample the ingredients and final products. Yum.

Back to Nature
Meet the residents of the Back to Nature Wildlife Preserve including bobcats, owls and possums. This is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescue, raise, rehabilitate and release Central Florida’s injured or orphaned native wildlife. This is a great way to have some fun while learning about these amazing creatures.

Orlando Paintball
Thought paintball was a thing of the past, think again! This mental and physical challenge is full of exciting twists and turns. They offer both indoor and outdoor courses, a free slice of pizza and weekday specials. Our favorite is “Shoot your friends” Monday.

Photo Courtsey of Bee's Knees Sweet Treats

It’s true, there are days that call for a cute little apron and some baking therapy. Then, there are those days when you’d like to just buy something scrumptious that takes no prep at all.

When you’re ready for a sugary treat made by a pro, check out these wildly popular dessert places around Central Florida.

Blue Bird Bake Shop
With more than 30 dynamic flavors, this Audubon Park shop specializes in cupcakes. Beyond that, they also serve up organic coffee, brownies, cookies, scones and muffins.
(3122 Corrine Drive, Orlando, 407-228-3822)

Bee’s Knees Sweet Treats
Established in 2010, The Bee’s Knees Sweet Treats was started by two great friends who wish to share their confections and homemade baked goods with the community. Everything here is created using fresh and locally grown ingredients.
(745 Bennett Road, Orlando, 407-893-9832)

The Yum Yum Cupcake Truck
Five days a week you can track down the Yum Yum Cupcake Truck around town. When you spot the truck make sure to grab a few cupcakes since all of the scrumptious flavors are worth trying.  Opt for the Dom Berrignon which was Facebook-voted the best January cupcake.
(Food Truck pops up around the city, 407-494-9336)

Yogurtland
Mix and match until your heart and tummy is content. This divine dish is loaded with calcium, vitamins, probiotics and live active cultures so you wont feel guilty for a second while indulging.
(415 N. Orlando Ave., Winter Park, 407-629-6300)

Orlando Science Center

For an educational day visit some of Orlando’s museums.

1. Orlando Museum of Art
It began with a group of artists in the 1920s displaying their work. Today, it’s known as one of the best museums in the South. A big part of Orlando’s cultural scene, the museum plays host to the Festival of Trees and other fun events throughout the year.
(2416 N. Mills Ave., Orlando, 407-896-4231)

2. Menello Museum
For another dose of ingenuity, walk across the street to the Mennello Museum of American Art. Inside, a treasure trove of works is on display by folk artist Earl Cunningham. Outside, the lawn areas offers gorgeous views and majestic trees. One in particular is known as “The Mayor,” one of Central Florida’s oldest and largest oaks. It’s dozens of massive limbs that rest on the ground are a sight to see.
(900 E. Princeton St., Orlando, 407-246-4278)

3. Orlando Science Center
Kids and adults alike love the Orlando Science Center. It’s four floors of pure fun. Check out simulators at Science Park and DinoDigs, where a fossil display is the main attraction. To top it off, the giant refractor telescope at the top of the observatory offers stellar star-gazing.
(777 E. Princeton St., Orlando, 407-514-2000)

4. Orange County History Center
The Historical Museum opened its doors in 1942 in the Orange County Courthouse, which was built in 1892. It began as a pioneer kitchen exhibit for the Central Florida Centennial Celebration. These days it brings photography exhibits to life, hosts gatherings and serves as a way to preserve Central Florida history.
(65 East Central Blvd., Orlando, 407-836-8500)

5. The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art
The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art boasts the world’s most comprehensive collection of Tiffany jewelry, pottery, paintings and lamps. Plus: There’s the chapel interior Charles Tiffany — one of Winter Park’s first residents — designed for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago.
(445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407-645-5311)

Mandara Spa at Disney's Swan and Dolphin Resort

When you are completely worn out from all the hullabaloo that is Orlando, scope out a spa — there are plenty of them. Your weary muscles deserve a treat.

Orlando’s Ritz-Carlton at Grande Lakes
There’s a reason that The Ritz-Carlton Spa is voted again and again as one of Orlando’s top spas. First of all, It features 40 treatment rooms, a private 4,000-square-foot heated outdoor lap pool, a Carita salon, a boutique and a café. I mean, who said relaxing should not also include eating? The healthy cuisine includes tasty salads, power drinks, smoothies and a wide selection of waters.

Second, the treatments are so unique. There’s the East Indian Lime Scalp and Body Massage, which is just heavenly. Or the neuromuscular massage, which is super effective in relieving discomfort from tension headaches and other back and neck pains. Or the Eco-Rooftop Hammock Experience, which takes you to a private green rooftop sanctuary for a “zero gravity” massage. My all-time favorite, however, is called “Drift To Sleep,” which is designed to take you to a deep state of sub-consciousness. Perfect for those with overactive minds or those who are sleep deprived. It begins with an aromatherapy milk bath. Then, you sip aromatic herbal tea, infused with specialized essential oils like lavender and St. John’s Wort to assist in slowing the body’s internal rhythms. Next up: a peaceful body massage, including warm aromatherapy oils, Reiki, Cranial Sacral holds, lymphatic drainage and other polarity techniques specialized to transition you into the alpha state of sleep. Your sleep therapists will then encourage 30-minute power nap on a warmed, down duvet and oversized massage table.

Check the spa’s webpage http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/Orlando/Spa/Default.htm for deals throughout the year.

4012 Central Florida Parkway, Orlando, FL 32837
407-206-2400
www.ritzcarlton.com

The Spa at the Peabody
Just walking into this spa triggers instant relaxation mode. You’ll be surrounded by rubber duckies, towels that look very much like edible cupcakes and scents that artfully encourage repose. Try the signature mango ginger infusion or the tranquility body cocoon or a even a deep tissue massage. I recommend the paraffin wax treatment, which is said to help circulation and heals and soothes, too. Better yet, it makes your tootsies smell mighty nice. Apres-treatment, make a beeline for the hot tub. Then, in your sloth-like state, check out the steam room. Then it’s back to the hot tub and straight to a cushy chair for some lounging.

9801 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819
407-345-4431
www.peabodyorlando.com

The Waldorf Astoria Spa by Guerlain
There’s a lot to adore about The Waldorf Astoria Spa by Guerlain. For starters, the treatments. Try the Waldorf Impériale, a 2-hour treatment that includes an indulgent massage and decadent facial complete with Guerlain’s complete age-defying skincare, Orchidée Impériale. Or sign up for Intensive Body Therapy, a 2-hour treatment that includes an invigorating Vichy shower body polish, replenishing body wrap, and customized skincare concentrate therapy to sublimate the skin from head to toe. Should you not have time to enjoy one of these luxurious treatments, relax with the spa’s tea lounge, steam room and jacuzzi for a daily fee of $30.

14200 Bonnet Creek Resort Lane, Orlando, FL 32821
407-597-5500
www.waldorfastoriaorlando.com

Mandara Spa
Mandara, a Sanskrit word referring to an ancient legend about the quest to find the secret to eternal youth and beauty, is everything you’d expect from a Disney resort. For starters, the Balinese architecture alone will blow you away. Rooted in the great Hindu traditions and reminiscent of the Polynesian style, Balinese structures are created with natural materials including woven bamboo and coconut wood. The moment you enter the spa through the Meru Temple you’ll notice the intricate detail in every nook and cranny.

Beyond its good looks, the Mandara Spa is also well known for its over-the-top pampering and beauty services. The Mandara experience is inspired by the traditions of healing touch present in the Balinese culture. Together, these time-honored therapies, along with modern methods, meld together creating unique treatments; and with over 40 options, there is certainly a choice for everyone.

1500 Epcot Resorts Blvd., Lake Buena Vista
407-934-4SPA (4772)
www.swananddolphin.com

Relâche Spa at the Gaylord Palms Resort
Before your appointment, I highly recommend making a beeline for the Eucalyptus Steam Room. It is the perfect way to start your day spa experience. After that, the Muscle Melt treatment is a great choice. The Thai-inspired treatment will work your pressure points and release blocked energy. Plus, a heated herbal poultice is used to reduce aches and pains followed by a massage with lemongrass-infused oil to nourish the skin. Next, washed it all off in one of the spa’s duper-super showers. I’m talking seven shower heads shooting from all directions, plus your choice of lighting and music. It was every bit as fanciful as it sounds.

6000 West Osceola Parkway
, Kissimmee, FL 34746
407-586-2000
www.gaylordhotels.com

Eden Bar at Enzian

Taverna Opa
This is the place for breaking plates, dodging confetti-style napkins and sampling tasty dishes like the smash-it-yourself garbanzo beans appetizer. Just as impressive: the garlic-marinated chicken kabobs and Santorini shrimp. Better yet, the energy of this eatery will have you dancing in your seat or — for the more adventurous — on the table.
(9101 International Drive; 407.351.8660; opaorlando.com)

Paddleboarding on the Banana River. Photo courtesy of Sobe Surf.

Central Florida has a smattering of cooler-than-cool things to keep you busy. You know the obvious ones — Disney, SeaWorld and Universal. Now here are the more inconspicuous spots. Some scream adventure; others soothe the soul.

1. Harry P. Leu Gardens
This 50-acre botanical garden is Orlando’s equivalent to The Secret Garden: a maze bursting with color and unusual greenery. At Leu Gardens  take a guided tour of the southern-styled grounds, chill at a concert or just run amok through the giant bamboo stalks, hyper-manicured lawns and Camellias (they have the world’s largest collection). Better yet, its location on the shores of Lake Rowena affords a fitting view of the sunset.

2. The Nature Conservancy’s The Disney Wilderness Preserve
Located just south of Orlando in Osceola and Polk counties, this little-known getaway protects the headwaters of the Everglades ecosystem. Its 12,000 acres provide a cozy home for hundreds of wildlife species, including bald eagles, snakes, bobcats, Florida scrub-jays, sandhill cranes and gopher tortoises. Plus, there are 2.5 miles of hiking trails among the pine flatwoods available to visitors who want to learn about the preserve’s resident plants and animals.

3. SoBe Surf in Cocoa Beach
The best way to scope out the area’s teeming marine life is to skim across its waters. More specifically, head to SoBe Surf in Cocoa Beach for a stand-up paddleboarding lesson. You’ll be in good hands. The instructors are lifeguard certified and award-winning paddleboarders. Participants hop aboard super sturdy, extra-long boards and paddle several miles on the Banana River Bay. Expect an up-close encounter with manatees, dolphins, pelicans and fish of all sorts as you glide by waterfront mansions, including one owned by pro surfer Kelly Slater.

4. DeLeon Springs State Park
Before you hit the water at DeLeon Springs State Park, load up on carbs at the Old Spanish Sugar Mill Grill & Griddle House — an all-day breakfast joint inside the park where you cook flapjacks at your table. From there, hop into the 72-degree water for a 9 ½-mile jaunt via kayak, canoe or paddle boat. If you still have energy, trek the trails. Note: Turkey, deer and gators traverse these pathways, too. With 18,000 acres of lakes and marshes to explore, it’s easy to keep busy. The difficult part is leaving!

5. Winter Park Scenic Boat Ride
The lakes are so charming, it’s no wonder all types fancy the Winter Park Scenic Boat Ride. Glide by towering cypress, tropical birds and magnificent mansions, including the residence of a former world champion whistler.

6. Forever Florida
The Zipline Safari attraction at Forever Florida gives guests the chance to propel through a 4,700-acre wildlife conservation haven. In other words, you’ll breeze through seven ziplines, perch atop nine aerial observation platforms and clamor across two sky bridges. In fact, the high-flying adventure takes you through nine beautifully preserved ecosystems. Once the ride is over, trot down a section of the Florida Trail, one of eight national historic pathways running from South Florida to the Panhandle.

7. Wallaby Ranch
Uh, you can hang glide without mountains? Sure you can, according to the flying experts at Wallaby Ranch. It’s called aerotowing – think launching upward 2,000 feet then gliding nose first out of the sky while wrapped up like a human burrito. This old farm-turned-hang-gliding paradise is equal parts thrilling and family friendly. After your high-altitude frolic, try hammock lounging, trampoline bouncing or bungee slinging, a story in itself.

8. Discovery Cove
Turn off Central Florida Parkway and wander onto what looks exactly like a Caribbean island complete with with hammocks and the soothing sounds of steel drum music. Here, at Discovery Cove, you have the chance for some one-on-one time with an Atlantic bottlenose dolphin. Pose for photo ops, teach your new flippered friend some tricks and tour the lagoon via the dolphin’s dorsal fin. Don’t forget the aviary, too, where 250 birds flutter around freely. Then, lunch on grilled salmon and gourmet salads at the upscale cafeteria (food is included with your ticket), hop on the horticulture tour and leave plenty of time to feed the sting rays.

9. Orlando Aerial Art
Fun-loving folks of all types flock to Orlando Aerial Arts for an utterly uplifting workout. Here, you’ll find Cirque du Soliel-style classes. (Think: Climbing silk cloths that hang from the ceiling.) It is the perfect way to gain flexibility and core strength. Better yet: You are so busy mastering the skills that you don’t even realize you’re burning calories at the same time.

10. Enzian Theater
What you won’t find at the Enzian Theater are sticky floors, scary restrooms or a sub-par snack bar. What you will find is quite the opposite — independent films paired with gourmet eats.