Things to do / Travel Guide
Orlando is one of the world's premier honeymoon destinations, and romance seekers will not be disappointed, as Disney leads the way in Central Florida. Indeed, Disney is synonymous with themes, many of which are suited for romantic visitors. The close-by Gulf Coast cities of Sarasota, St. Petersburg, and Tampa offer a different romantic experience - historic inns, white sand beaches, and perfect sunsets.
Romantic Accommodations around Orlando and Tampa, Florida
Finding that perfect place to call your love nest during your stay in this region is a big piece of the romance puzzle. There are some great choices to be sure.
In the Orlando area there are a few hotels that can be recommended for romantic couples, which are notably at the higher end of the price scale. The Disney property that best qualifies is Disney's African-themed Wilderness Lodge. Hundreds of species of animals roam the property and the attached “African” savannah. The rooms all feature hand-carved African furnishings and artwork and dining options that include both regional cuisine and exotic wildlife dishes. Make sure and migrate down to the pampering world-class spa.
Did you choose Orlando as your romance spot over Italy? Universal has the answer for you in the Portofino Bay Hotel. Looking for a bit more nature, golf, and horseback riding and a bit less of Mickey and company? Try The Villas of Grand Cypress. Further from the theme parks, but also further away from the family groups, the Westin Grand Bohemian is one of the few hotels in the area that targets art lovers and couples looking for a chic hotel experience and some fine dining.
The Gulf Coast plays host to Clearwater, Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota. Gorgeous sunsets, midnight strolls along vast stretches of white sand beaches, and frolicking in the water are activities that go hand-in-hand with those who wish to, well, go hand-in-hand. In Clearwater, there are some really nice places that don't necessarily cost an arm and a leg to visit. The Belleview Biltmore is one such place. Built in 1897, it is the largest inhabited wooden structure in the U.S., appearing prominently on the National Register of Historic Places. The rooms are really homey and comfortable, with big beds and tasteful antique furnishings. There's also a great spa for being pampered, and the golf course is right there, in case you want to play a romantic round (hey, it could happen).
Romance-minded visitors should also consider Cypress. This Sarasota B&B clearly has romance in mind. Situated beneath mango trees, palms, and moss-covered oaks, this oasis of tropical beauty and serenity gives guests the feel of a bygone era. Overlooking the calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the innkeepers treat guests like family, and serve a scrumptious breakfast each morning. The suites are elegant and charming as well as comfortable and warm.
Romantic Dining around Orlando and Tampa, Florida Searching for some romantic dining options in Central Florida? Let's see if we can get those senses some stimulation:
Disney, of course, offers fine dining in some of its theme park restaurants, with the best ones in Epcot Center's World Showcase. Whatever theme you find romantic - be it dining in a 1950's convertible, an African marketplace, or on the set of a TV sitcom, you will find it at Disney. Just make sure to reserve in advance and don't expect to be alone. Outside the theme parks, don't miss Downtown Disney's variety of food and entertainment.
At the high end of the price spectrum is Victoria & Albert's in the Grand Floridian Resort, featuring international cuisine in an intimate and elegant environment. Reserve early and go easy on lunch - the chef has prepared a seven course dinner for you!
Enzo's Restaurant on the Lake in Longwood (southeast of Orlando) has the magic of amazing classic Italian cuisine. Owner Enzo Perlini makes sure that visitors here get the real deal. Dishes like spaghetti alla carbonara and straccetti di manzo whisk you away to old Napoli. The wine list is extensive (and expensive), and the service is excellent.
Probably nobody understands how to appeal to your senses better than the French. Thus, it's no surprise that Chateau France in St. Petersburg is a favorite for couples looking to dine with romance in mind. Built in 1910, the building itself lends and air of elegance and Victorian grace. Chef/Owner Antoine Louro presents a menu steeped in French traditional cuisine, such as escargot, and patés. Fresh seafood and other local produce rounds out a robust menu selection that definitely earns its four-star rating.
Bernini, in Tampa, is a fantastic option for the couple seeking a great restaurant. This two-story bistro was originally a bank, and it still sports its original vaulted ceilings and marble floors. Each floor has its own style, with the casual crowd below, and the more romantic pairing upstairs. The cuisine is splendid, with an array of dishes like beef tenderloin, duck, and lobster ravioli. A great wine list compliments it all, and there's a stylish martini bar as well. Rumor has it that Cher orders take-out here.
Romantic Excursions around Orlando and Tampa, Florida
Okay, now that you're stuffed like a ravioli, it's time to hit the town. Nightlife in this region is hopping. For example, we suggest trying Tabu in Orlando. Located inside Beacham Theater, this hot dance club has scarlet red walls done in Art Deco. The furniture is comfy, and there are three dance floors to choose from. Another Orlando must-do is the Peacock Room. Live jazz, fantastic martinis, and a laid-back atmosphere make it a perfect place to sit, and gaze into each other's eyes. Great happy hour there, too! In Tampa, you may want to consider the channel-side hotspot, Howl at the Moon. As the name implies, this is no tame nightspot. Dueling pianos get the house rocking, but there's a corner or two that lends itself to a bit of coziness. Dark woods and big, comfortable seats are a nice touch.
In the nightlife area, Disney again makes its presence felt with Downtown Disney - a dazzling array of shops, restaurants, nightclubs, and entertainment venues like Cirque Du Soleil. Disney's Pleasure Island is another nightclub haven, with six different options showcasing everything from disco to comedy, all for one price.
Another tried and true vehicle for romance is the beach. In the Central Florida region, those seeking out beautiful sunsets, white sand and gentle surf are definitely in luck. On the eastern coast, perhaps try Cocoa Beach (of “I dream of Jeanie” fame), Vero Beach (home of Major League Baseball's LA Dodgers during spring training), or Bathtub Beach. On the Gulf of Mexico side, there's Crescent Beach, Lido Beach, Madeira Beach, and Clearwater Beach. And what could possibly be more romantic than Honeymoon Island State Park Beach?
Romantic Vacation Ideas in Orlando, Tampa, Cape Canaveral and Central Florida
Romantic-Vacations-Getaways
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge - Florida
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