International Drive is famous among frequent visitors to Florida, as it has everything you could want in one location, from stunning resorts to exceptional restaurants. However, if you have never stepped foot in Orlando, you might be unsure about what is available in the commercial district.
Well, prepare to be wowed, as you will soon have many restaurants, accommodations, and entertainment options at your fingertips. Read this beginner’s guide on what to expect at International Drive.
Stunning Resorts
You will want to return to Orlando year after year following a stay at International Drive due to the quality of its exceptional resorts, such as the recently renovated Westgate Palace Resort.
Many vacationers stay on International Drive due to the number of attractions, restaurants, and outlets available. What’s more, the convenient location and I-Trolley system make it easier to travel to and from the best theme parks in Orlando, such as Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort.
Of course, what keeps people coming back to International Drive is the caliber of its resorts, which deliver on comfort, style, convenience, and luxury time and again. Yet, you might feel stuck due to the many accommodation options.
If this is the case, it is a wise idea to pick a spot that ticks every box for space, privacy, fun, and comfort, such as Westgate Palace Resort. You will stay in a recently renovated two-bedroom villa, which provides activities for young, old, and those in between, such as volleyball, basketball, an arcade, playground, pool cabanas, and an outdoor pool. Also, you will rest your head a mile away from The Wheel at Icon Park and Universal Studios Florida. Make an informed choice at westgateresorts.com.
Fun Attractions
From fun theme parks to historic attractions, International Drive offers activities to suit many families, couples, and groups of friends.
Now you have found the perfect place to stay, you can start filling your itinerary with fun attractions at International Drive. Top of your list must be ICON Park, an open-air entertainment complex spread across 20 acres, offering cool restaurants, bars, and The Wheel, a 400-feet observation wheel.
International Drive is home to some world-famous attractions you may have heard about, such as Madame Tussauds Orlando, WonderWorks, Discovery Cove, Fun Spot America, Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, and SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium.
Unforgettable Dining Experiences
You could dine at International Drive for every meal for the next year and still wouldn’t have tried all the dishes on offer. Featuring a mix of unique restaurants and popular fast-food chains, you are bound to find a meal to match your mood, taste, and budget.
There is a dish to match every craving, appetite, and preference at International Drive. The popular commercial district is home to countless restaurants dedicated to satisfying every customer who walks through their doors.
You can expect your typical fast-food chains like McDonald’s or Domino’s Pizza, but you can enjoy a Big Mac or mass-produced pizza any day of the week at home. When staying at International Drive, you would be smart to dine at one of the many fantastic restaurants in the city that serve beautifully presented, delicious dishes that could become a vacation highlight.
If you are scratching your head about the best restaurants to visit, you will not regret dining at Maggiano’s Little Italy, which is a small Italian chain with Chicago roots. Fuel up your body after a fun yet busy day with a prime steak, homemade pasta, fresh fish, or yummy chef specials. Each item on the menu is made from scratch daily and offers authentic Italian flavors that will encourage you to return before leaving Orlando.
Superb Shopping
Enjoy fantastic discounts on designer and name-brand clothing, footwear, and accessories at International Drive. It is home to superb outlets that care for your bank balance without compromising quality or style.
You would be wise to take a little extra money to treat yourself at International Drive, as it is the ultimate shopping destination in Orlando. Locals and tourists could easily spend the whole day exploring the area for quality clothing, cool keepsakes, and sleek footwear, as the district features superb outlet malls, souvenir shops, and more.
Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets is a great place to spend your time between attractions, as it is home to more than 160 designer and brand outlet stores, such as Burberry, Prada, Nike, Armani Exchange, and Tommy Hilfiger, to name a few options. It is the perfect place to treat yourself or a loved one to a luxury handbag, cool pair of sneakers, or a designer dress.
Don’t skip a visit to Orlando International Premium Outlets, either. It is the largest outlet in Orlando and features more than 180 designer and brand stores, including Under Armour, Kate Spade New York, Adidas, and Victoria’s Secret. You could enjoy savings between 25-65% at the outlet, which will stretch your money further on vacation.
Also, avoid stocking up on souvenirs at the various theme parks, which are notoriously expensive, and buy keepsakes at Bargain World, ICON Park Gifts, or Gala Gifts, to name a few discount stores. You will pay a fraction of the price for Disney and Universal trinkets, and your loved ones at home will not know the difference. Also, it is one top tip parents should bear in mind if buying souvenirs for many children.
Atmospheric Nightlife
Dance, sing, or unwind in one of the many bars, lounges, nightclubs, and sports bars at International Drive. You will find the perfect venue to suit your mood and needs, from singing karaoke to watching a football game on a large screen.
International Drive isn’t just for families; you can choose from many cool bars, nightclubs, and lounges across the commercial district. If you and your friends have your heart set on singing at the top of your lungs to karaoke, show off your pipes at O’Shucks Pub and Karaoke Bar. However, if you would prefer to kick back and relax with a refreshing bottle of beer, a glass of wine, or a cocktail, make your way to Zebra’s Lounge & Grille.
Cheers Sports Bar is an easygoing spot for those looking to catch a live game on a large TV screen. It is one of the best places in International Drive to watch a football or basketball game while eating a burger or sandwich.
Restorative Spas
An Orlando getaway can take its toll on your muscles as the days pass, as you will spend many hours on your feet exploring theme parks, attractions, and natural wonders. Restore your mind and body or wash off the city from your skin by visiting a luxury spa for a soothing treatment.
If you are staying at International Drive, you will not need to look far for a serene spa with exceptional treatments, and they may even be available at your resort. However, you can visit a destination that solely specializes in beauty and body treatments.
For instance, Mr. BarberSpa’s employees are experts in male grooming and offer hair, grooming, and unique therapies to make men look and feel good. Also, you will feel like a whole new you when stepping out of Orlando Spa Oasis, as you can take your pick from Swedish, Thai, deep tissue, hot stone & foot massage treatments, and each treatment will be customized to your specific needs. You will feel fresh, happy, and ready to check every attraction off the rest of your itinerary.
Dinner with a Twist
If you want to laugh aloud or get your brain working over a delicious meal, dinner with a show will provide a memory that you and your loved ones will treasure.
International Drive is well-known for providing a host of dinner shows that will wow diners of various ages. Few destinations combine unique culinary experiences with world-class entertainment, but that is what you can expect during your stay.
If dinner with a show sounds like fun to you and your loved ones, you will love Sleuth Mystery Dinner Shows, which requires diners to become detectives while enjoying a show filled with comedy and mystery.
Conclusion
International Drive is anything but small. You can trust it isn’t all style over substance, as the commercial district is home to exceptional resorts, restaurants, malls, bars, and entertainment that you will never forget. Your every need is catered for throughout your stay, and you could easily spend every day of your vacation without feeling bored. Don’t miss it on your trip to Orlando.
