One of the most fun and relaxing parts of vacationing is ditching cooking in your kitchen in favor of savoring delicious dishes prepared by professionals at restaurants. In and around Orlando, you’ll find a host of unique dining options that are well-suited for kids and adults alike. Here are a few of our favorite dining spots near the Walt Disney World resort.
Disney Springs
Beginning closest to Disney World, Disney Springs has a variety of fun, themed dining options that are sure to delight both young and old. See a kid-friendly flick and enjoy a meal at AMC Dine-In, eat amid lush vegetation at Rainforest Cafe, or bowl while you bite at Splitsville Dining Room. With free parking and no admission charge, Disney Springs is a great way to extend the Disney fun without breaking the bank. See the full list of Disney Springs dining options here.CityWalk
If you have older kids in your group, Universal CityWalk may be a great choice for you. Similar to Disney Springs, CityWalk is an admission-free collection of venues that offers one-of-a-kind immersive themed dining and entertainment experiences. At CityWalk, you and your little ones can enjoy a burger among rock star memorabilia at Hard Rock Cafe Orlando, grab a bite surrounded by sports at NBC Sports Grill and Brew, or satisfy your sweet tooth at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen. Each of these restaurants offers a dedicated kids’ menu, so there’s sure to be something for everyone to enjoy.
McDonald’s PlayPlace
For a slightly lower-key, but still thoroughly Orlando experience, head to McDonald’s PlayPlace on Sand Lake Road. Close to much of the theme park action, the PlayPlace is a great choice to let kids blow off steam when it’s humid outside since the treehouse play center, toddler area, and 100+ game arcade are all located indoors. Enjoy a quick and affordable breakfast or lunch while little ones go wild on the playground.
Taverna Opa (and all of International Drive)
Unique and family-friendly dining abounds at Taverna Opa Orlando. This Greek restaurant serves food family-style and offers entertainment in the form of belly dancers and authentic Greek music. If Greek isn’t your cuisine of choice, International Drive serves up an array of other kid-friendly options including Thai, Mexican, Spanish, and Italian fare as well as quick bites like burgers, pizza, and ice cream. If you’ve done the theme-park dining experience but still have a hungry crew, head to International Drive to satisfy even the pickiest eater.
Once your day is done and your belly full, rest up in a comfortable hotel near all of the action. Close to the Disney complex, head to the Crowne Plaza Lake Buena Vista or the Fairfield Inn Orlando Lake Buena Vista. Near all the delicious dishes on International Drive, the Comfort Inn International, Element Orlando International Drive, and Best Western International Drive offer excellent spots to stay. Or check out the Wyndham Orlando Resort & Conference Center/Celebration, Staybridge Suites Orlando Royale Parc, Fairfield Inn Orlando Airport, or Aloft Orlando International Drive for other great options.