Top 10 Hidden Gems

Our Local Expert Says:

Best DIY dessert experience

Description:

Besides being a great place to buy gourmet chocolate, this working chocolate factory in Baldwin Park offers nightly chocolate parties that give visitors the opportunity to to take over the factory to create and sample decadent chocolate treats. Upon your arrival, guests are outfitted with an apron and
chef's hat and then a friendly and gregarious guide gives an overview of supplies, ideas for types of chocolates to make, and a quick lesson in chocolate making. Guests are then set loose in the factory to create the pound of chocolate they'll be taking away with them.

Make such treats as truffles, peanut butter cups, and chocolate dipped strawberries, while dipping anything in chocolate: pretzels, biscotti,marshmallows, cookies, and rice crispy squares. Each station
is given its own sampling plate for you to nibble at as you go.

Farris and Foster's also does a couple's date night at 9pm on Friday and Saturday evenings - which makes for a superb after-dinner dessert experience. Try Baldwin Parks Colibri Mexican Cuisine.

Our Local Expert Says:

Bringing nature back to the city

Description:

From short jaunts in local lakes to week-long expeditions through the Everglades, Adventures in Florida has the staff, the gear, and the know-how to provide the exact kayak adventure you seek. Local day trips include places such as Wekiwa Springs and the Econlockatchee River. Equipment and instruction are provided.

Our Local Expert Says:

Love that you can enjoy a glass of wine during the film!

Description:

Plaza Cinema Café is downtown Orlando's first movie complex in many decades. It is located in the heart of downtown and is more than your average movie theater. It boasts large, comfy chairs with connected small tables and drink holders to put every thing on. There are 12 screens showing the latest movies, and two are 21 and older only. Plaza Cinema Café has two wine bars that also serve beer and overlook Orange Avenue below, while the snacks offered are more than the typical popcorn and candy. Choose from a number of American favorites including appetizers, entrees and desserts. It is also scheduled to host a number of events for special occasions. - Diane Dilov-Schultheis

Our Local Expert Says:

Awesome downtown inn steps from everything!

Description:

The EO Inn & Urban Spa, a small boutique property with only 17 deluxe suites, is a hidden gem tucked inside downtown Orlando's poshest neighbored, Thornton Park. Overlooking Lake Eola and located minutes from a myriad of fabulous downtown eateries, EO Inn also boasts a decadent spa where guests are perfectly pampered. One of the inn's best features is its rooftop terrace featuring a bubbling jacuzzi and private sundeck.


It's the perfect setting for conducting business in style or hosting visits from out-of-town guests. Numerous options for relaxation include, lakeside walks, outdoor theater, concerts, fine dining, sporting events, world-class attractions or a visit to our new Spa.

The elegant, understated interiors feature many personal touches. All rooms are "smart-wired", with the latest technology necessary to conduct business on a 24-hour basis. Select rooms offer lake views, while others overlook the lushly landscaped grounds of Lake Eola park and the downtown skyline. Amenities include a rooftop terrace with whirlpool, our new day spa facility, and a nationally renowned bakery-cafe, Panera Bread. The EO Inn is more than a place to stay. It's a tranquil retreat... a haven away... read more

Our Local Expert Says:

One of the best lakeside restaurants in the area!

Description:

More than 25 years ago, this enchanting Italian villa on the shores of Lake Fairy was converted into an outstanding family run restaurant. The old house was divided into several dining rooms, creating an ambiance of time-honored elegance and homespun grace.

Come early to grab a glass of wine and enjoy it in their sculpture garden overlooking Lake Fairy. If you've timed it right, you might even be able to find a seat on the deck and watch the sun go down. This quiet and pretty area has been the site for many weddings and private parties. The food is simple, traditional, flavorful and homemade with only the freshest of ingredients. Start your meal with their famous Antipasti platter, a variety of house specialties.Then choose from pastas, seafood, meats, and poultry.Some dishes of note are The Dover Sole, the Spaghetti Alla Carbonara and the Penne Alla Vodka. Chances are, you won't be disappointed by anything you order here.

If you've saved room for dessert, you can enjoy conventional favorites such as tiramisu or Crème Brule, which is almost as smooth as the professional, polished service you'll be given by your server. The dining pace is slow and easy, leaving you lots of time to... read more

Our Local Expert Says:

best place to chill in the wild

Description:

Wekiva River is an outdoor oasis with tons of perks. Rent kayaks or canoes to head out on the pristine Wekiva River, play volleyball or horseshoes, join in on a guided excursion, or simply kick back and sip a beer while you take in the picturesque scene. Riverside cabanas, decked out with cozy couches and Adirondack chairs, are available for rent. Live music is scheduled most weekend evening.

Description:

Find this friendly tavern in the heart of the Celebration area just a little south and west of Orlando. Step inside and feel like you are far away from central Florida in an authentic New England tavern. Celebration Town Tavern is both a restaurant and tavern offering a family-friendly, welcoming atmosphere in nautical surroundings. Choose from menu selections such as sandwiches, burgers, appetizers, soups (clam chowder), salads and fresh tasty specials and seafood items like Maine lobster roll, Massachusetts's clams, the meatloaf stacker and fish 'n' chips. Choose from indoor, lounge or outside seating. Drink selections consist of beer, wine and specialty drinks from the fully stocked bar. - Diane Dilov-Schultheis