September 4, 2026

It’s the most wonderful time of the year again, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with that special someone.

As the streets of The City Beautiful begin to glow with festive holiday cheer, now’s the perfect time to plan your next holiday date night in Orlando.

Whether you’re looking for lighthearted fun or a one-of-a-kind dining experience, there are plenty of romantic things to do in Orlando. And when you choose Rosen Plaza for your holiday getaway, you’ll be in prime position to enjoy them all.

Ready to experience holiday magic in The City Beautiful? Here’s our list of Orlando holiday date ideas to make the most of this uniquely special time of year.

Key Takeaways

• Celebrate the Holidays at Rosen Plaza
• Share a Meal at Jack’s Place Restaurant
• Go on an Ice Skating Date
• Look at Christmas Lights
• Watch a Holiday Show Together

Celebrate the Holidays at Rosen Plaza

There’s no better way to complete your Orlando holiday date night than with a romantic stay in the heart of the city.

At Rosen Plaza, our comfortable and stylish accommodations are ideal for creating magical memories with your special someone. And with a convenient I-Drive location, you’ll never be far from the best holiday couples activities in Orlando.

If you’re in town on December 24 or 25, savor the best festive dining in Orlando with our Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dining experiences. Check back soon to discover the extraordinary flavors that await you and your partner this year.

Let our heartwarming team at Rosen Plaza help make your seasonal celebrations extra special by booking your stay today.

Share a Meal at Jack’s Place Restaurant

While there are countless ways to celebrate the holidays as a couple in Orlando, sharing a delicious meal together will always be a timeless tradition.

Jack’s Place, widely known as the best steakhouse on I-Drive, welcomes all couples looking to savor festive dining in Orlando with sensational flavors and a charming ambiance. The restaurant’s soft amber lighting and signature steak dishes create the perfect environment for rekindling that special spark during the holidays.

Taste the flavors of Florida with freshly prepared seafood including herb crusted salmon or indulge in your choice of tender steak made from the finest ingredients. If you’re spending Christmas Eve in Orlando, enjoy an elegant, three-course prix fixe dinner during Christmas Eve at Jack’s Place.

Go on an Ice Skating Date

During the holidays, simple moments like bundling up and holding hands with your partner feel extra special.

Ice skating as a couple is a great way to cherish these ordinary moments by adding a touch of wintery wonder to your Orlando holiday date night.

While warm temperatures linger early in the holiday season, ice skating offers the perfect seasonal cool down. A variety of ice skating rinks throughout the city also make it one of the most popular couples activities in Orlando.

Skaters of all skill levels can glide over to the Ice Factory of Central Florida, where public skating is available all throughout the week. Couples can also lace up their skates at Orlando Ice Den, where holiday-themed events take every date night to a cool new level.

Look at Christmas Lights

While trees in Florida may not be covered in snow, they are decked out in plenty of dazzling decor for the holidays. And there’s no shortage of Orlando holiday lights waiting to be enjoyed with your significant other.

Harry P. Leu Gardens, north of downtown Orlando, transforms its 50 acres into an enchanting wonderland during their annual Dazzling Nights event. See giant crystal chandeliers hanging from treetops and stroll through a magical meadow filled with lit-up fireflies and butterflies.

Each year, the beloved Christmas Tree Stroll at Disney Springs welcomes a unique lineup of brightly decorated Disney-themed Christmas trees, including ones inspired by Pixar, Star Wars, and superhero favorites.

Watch a Holiday Show Together

If bonding over the arts is more you and your partner’s style, watching a live show together is a uniquely festive way to spend a Christmas date night in Orlando.

Make your romantic holiday evening unforgettable with performances that can only be seen during this magical time of year.

In the heart of downtown Orlando, discover a lineup of festive holiday performances at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Share a romantic evening with your partner by watching beautiful depictions of The Nutcracker or listening to the seasonal sounds of talented artists performing special holiday-themed songs.

Thanksgiving is traditionally a day of gratitude, good food, and spending time with loved ones.

For some people, it’s also the best time to travel and make brand new traditions with friends and family.

If you happen to find yourself in Orlando for the holiday, you’ll be happy to know there’s plenty to do on Thanksgiving Day to make special new memories.

Here are a few of our favorite things to do on Thanksgiving in Orlando this year.

Key Takeaways

• Hit the Pavement with a Turkey Trot
• Let Someone Else Prepare the Feast
• Head to the Theme Parks
• Prep for Black Friday
• See Orlando from a New Perspective
• Take it Easy

Hit the Pavement with a Turkey Trot

Get moving before you feast with a good ol’ fashioned Turkey Trot fun run.

The Seniors First Turkey Trot in downtown Orlando is an annual tradition celebrating its 37th year in 2026.

Join over 5,000 runners, joggers, and walkers for a 5k that circles the beautiful Lake Eola.

All participants receive a finisher medal and an official event t-shirt, as well as bragging rights for being up and at ‘em first thing in the morning.

Be sure to dress in your best Thanksgiving-themed costumes to compete in the costume contest and practice your gobbling for a chance to win Best Turkey Call.

After the 5k is over, kids can enjoy a free Tot Trot at 9:15 a.m. to stretch their legs and burn off some energy.

Give thanks while you give back to the Orlando community. Proceeds from the Seniors First Turkey Trot 5k go directly to Seniors First, an organization dedicated to helping low-income older adults struggling to keep their independence at home.

Your registration costs help support local organizations like Meals on Wheels, In-Home Care, Neighborhood Lunch with Transportation, and Stepping Stone Medical Equipment Bank.

Let Someone Else Prepare the Feast

Thanksgiving is about gratitude, family, and of course, food.

Whether you’re a guest of Rosen Plaza or an Orlando-area local looking for a little extra relaxation, our annual Thanksgiving buffet is the perfect way to celebrate.

We offer a true smorgasbord of classic holiday dishes and delicious new interpretations of traditional seasonal flavors.

At the buffet table, you’ll find juicy slices of hand-carved turkey topped with rich gravy. Pile your plate high with classic autumn delights and a cornucopia of innovative new flavors prepared by our talented chefs.

Held from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the Rosen Plaza Thanksgiving buffet also features brunch favorites like made-to-order omelets and pancakes, a create-your-own pasta station, and a crowd-pleasing kid’s buffet. 

Save room for dessert; there will be plenty of pies, cakes, and cobblers waiting to satisfy your sweet tooth at the end of the meal. (Or the beginning. We’re not here to judge.)

Head to the Theme Parks

The Most Magical Place on Earth is open 365 days a year, Thanksgiving included.

In fact, Thanksgiving Day is one of the most popular days to visit Orlando’s theme parks, so if you’re thinking about going, be sure to plan ahead.

By Thanksgiving Day, almost every theme park is already decked out with their holiday decorations, making it the perfect place to kick off the holiday season.

You can buy holiday merch, try specialty menu items designed for the festivities, and enjoy character meet-and-greets only offered this time of year.

Whether you’re planning on spending the day at Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, or SeaWorld Orlando, you’ll make some wonderful Thanksgiving memories in a totally unique environment.

Who knows – maybe a theme park Thanksgiving will be your new family tradition!

Prep for Black Friday

Orlando is quite the shopping destination. Since Thanksgiving unofficially kicks off the holiday shopping season, it makes sense to try and cross some things off your list and take advantage of crazy Black Friday markdowns.

These days, all the shopping malls and outlets in Central Florida are closed on Thanksgiving Day. However, at the crack of dawn on Friday (if not earlier), most stores open their doors and offer some of the notoriously best sales of the year.

At Rosen Plaza, you’re a short drive away from the popular Orlando Premium Outlets where you can shop at your favorite stores and save on luxury brands from around the world.

If you haven’t made your holiday shopping list yet, now’s a great time.

See Orlando from a New Perspective

Located in ICON Park on International Drive, The Orlando Eye is an epic observation wheel that can’t be missed.

Topping out at 400 feet, The Orlando Eye offers sprawling views of Central Florida. On beautiful, clear days, you can see everything from the nearby theme parks to Cape Canaveral and the Kennedy Space Center.

If you time your visit just right, you may even see some theme park fireworks in the distance.

You’ll spend the duration of the 20-minute ride in comfortable, air-conditioned, and stability-controlled capsules with room for you to stand, sit, and move around to get the best views.

A ride on The Orlando Eye is the perfect way to spend your Thanksgiving evening. (Yes, they’re open!)

Take it Easy at Rosen Plaza

If you’re on vacation at Rosen Plaza this Thanksgiving, embrace it.

November’s average high temp is 78, making it the perfect weather for pulling up a lounge chair by the pool and enjoying the sunshine.

You can also curl up in your comfortable room to enjoy our free Wi-Fi, watch a movie on one of our premium channels, or get your rest before a full day of Black Friday shopping.

Rosen Plaza is happy to be your home away from home for the holidays.

We’ll make sure you’re well-fed, well-rested, and well-entertained during your stay.

Of all the things we’re grateful for this year, your choice to stay at Rosen Plaza is what we appreciate most of all.

Grab your lederhosen and your favorite beer stein – it’s time to celebrate Oktoberfest in Orlando!

This Germanic festival is a celebration of Bavarian culture, including beer, music, dancing, games, and culinary traditions.

Oktoberfest originated in Munich in the early 1800’s as a royal wedding celebration. In the 200 years that followed, its popularity led to thousands of Oktoberfest festivals popping up all over the world.

Orlando is no exception.

Don’t be fooled by the name; Oktoberfest takes place in October or September. Traditionally, it lasts two full weeks leading up to the first Sunday in October.

Get your fill of Bavarian culture at these festivals celebrating Oktoberfest in Orlando.

Key Takeaways

• German American Society of Central Florida’s Oktoberfest
• Oktoberfest in Avalon Park
• Krush Brau Park
• Winter Parktoberfest
• Raise a Glass to an Oktoberfest Stay at Rosen Plaza

The German American Society of Central Florida’s Oktoberfest

Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026, noon – 9 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026, noon – 9 p.m.

The German American Society of Central Florida throws not one, but two Oktoberfest celebrations each fall.

Heralded as the “most authentic and longest running” Oktoberfest in Central Florida, the event includes plenty of German food, beer, dancing, and live music.

Experience delicious Germanic delicacies prepared by the German American Society of Central Florida’s Chef Alex Jones of Tasteful Journeys Catering.

Oktoberfest is fun for the whole family, too. Little ones will love the Kids Korner with plenty of entertainment and activities just for them.

Tickets are required and can be purchased in advance. In 2026, advance tickets on Eventbrite are $7 per person, or $10 when bought at the gate. Kids ages 11 and under are free.

Oktoberfest in Avalon Park

Beer Garden Preview Friday, Oct. 9, 2026, 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026, 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Avalon Park is a charming neighborhood in East Orlando known for its seasonal celebrations.

Every year, the Oktoberfest festival draws thousands of people of all ages to the area for a free evening of live polka music, Alpine dancing, food vendors, and more.

The event features a special wiener dog race that always draws a crowd. This year’s celebration is even more special with a Kids Entrepreneur Market, a designated teen area, and a car show.

Avalon Park’s Oktoberfest celebration also includes an adults-only Beer Garden where you can enjoy a refreshing brew. Preview the Beer Garden and raise a glass the Friday before the event.

Krush Brau Park

September 16 – October 25, 2026

One of the best places to enjoy Oktoberfest season is Krush Brau Park in Kissimmee, a German-inspired beer garden owned by a U.S. Army veteran once stationed overseas in Germany.

The bar/restaurant has become a vibrant multicultural destination celebrating German beer, food, music, and other cultural treasures.

Every year, Krush Brau Park hosts a variety of Oktoberfest events and specials, including the largest German Beer Garden in the US with over 10 acres of tented celebration space.

There is also a German marketplace where you’ll be able to pick up special memorabilia, unique souvenirs, clothing, and beer steins.

Live entertainment, a dedicated kid’s play area, face painting, and other attractions make this a great family-friendly event, too.

Winter Parktoberfest

2026 Date TBD

Winter Parktoberfest is one of Central Florida’s newest Oktoberfest celebrations.

Held in Mead Garden, this event unites a diverse community of locals with polka musicians, authentic German food, and adorable dachshunds.

Started in 2024, the past two year’s events featured food from Hollerbach’s, Orlando’s premier German restaurant, and plenty of flowing local beer and wine.

Stay tuned for more details about this family-friendly Bavarian celebration.

Raise a Glass to an Oktoberfest Stay at Rosen Plaza

Ready to celebrate Oktoberfest in style?

Enjoy an autumn stay at Rosen Plaza in the heart of Orlando’s entertainment district.

When you’re done clinking steins of beer and perfecting your polka, return to our hotel to sip something refreshing while lounging poolside. May we suggest Alligator Drool IPA, brewed just for Rosen Hotels & Resorts?

Our spacious, comfortable accommodations are perfect for hanging up your dirndl and lederhosen for a good night’s rest.

Halloween wouldn’t be Halloween without trick-or-treating.

This sugar-filled rite of passage is the highlight of many children’s holidays.

Here in Orlando, we love both Halloween and trick-or-treating. That means you can find a variety of festive spots and events for collecting candy and showing off your costume.

Here are seven unique trick-or-treating events in Orlando you can look forward to in 2026.

Details are still being released about some of the 2026 events. Stay tuned for updates!

Key Takeaways

• • Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
  • Brick-or-Treat at LEGOLAND Florida
  • SeaWorld Orlando’s Spooktacular
  • Eolaween
  • Halloween at Cranes Roost Park
  • Downtown Winter Garden’s Annual Halloween Trick-or-Treat
  • Lake Nona Graveyard Smash
  • All Treats, No Tricks at Rosen Plaza this Halloween Season

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

One of the most popular trick-or-treating events (albeit the most expensive) is Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom.

This separately ticketed, after-hours event features plenty of festive, spooky fun, including Mickey’s Boo to You Parade, the Not-So-Spooky Spectacular fireworks show, and so much more.

Interact with some of your favorite Disney characters dressed in their Halloween finest, including some rarely spotted friends like Jack Skellington and Sally from The Nightmare Before Christmas.

Kids and grown-ups alike get to participate in trick-or-treating at stations throughout the park, collecting ample amounts of candy. There are even allergy-friendly options for those with dietary restrictions.

Halloween night is sold out, but you can still enjoy trick or treating and other festivities on select dates from Aug. 7 through Oct. 31, 2026.

Ticket prices range from $129 – $214 for kids ages 3 to 9, and $139 – $224 for anyone 10 and older.

Brick-or-Treat at LEGOLAND Florida

About an hour drive from Orlando is LEGOLAND Florida, every brick-builder’s dream destination.

Every Halloween, they throw their Brick-or-Treat party for guests to enjoy.

On select dates from Sept. 5 – Oct, 31, 2026, LEGOLAND Florida comes alive with exclusive Halloween LEGO characters, festive dance parties and performances, and special holiday menu items.

On a Brick-or-Treat event day, you can pick up a candy bag and make your way to a variety of stations handing out monstrous mounds of sweets and treats.

Allergy and sensory friendly treat bags are also available.

Brick-or-Treat is included in the cost of admission to LEGOLAND Florida, so be sure to plan your visit on an event day.

SeaWorld Orlando’s Spooktacular

The final theme park trick or treating experience on our list is SeaWorld Orlando’s Spooktacular.

The event is a kid-friendly Halloween celebration complete with a harvest maze, bubble dance party, mermaid meet-and-greets, Halloween crafts, and so much more.

Purchase a reusable candy bag (last year’s price was $3.99 per bag) to take advantage of the trick or treat trail, where guests of all ages can collect an assortment of candy.

Have a little one who loves Sesame Street? Make your way to Sesame Street Land for a special Halloween parade featuring all your favorite characters.

Spooktacular occurs on select dates from Aug. 29 – Nov. 1, 2026, and is included in the cost of a SeaWorld Orlando admission ticket.

Be sure not to confuse Spooktacular with SeaWorld Orlando’s separate – and much scarier – haunted house event, Howl-O-Scream.

Eolaween

Downtown Orlando loves getting into the spooky spirit of Halloween with a celebration every year.

Held on Lake Eola Park’s East Lawn by the Eola House, this family-friendly celebration includes games, a DJ, crafts, and lots of trick-or-treating.

Typically, as the sun sets, they’ll also show a family-friendly Halloween movie for everyone to enjoy on the lawn together.

Stay tuned for more details about the 2025 Eolaween event!

Halloween at Cranes Roost Park

Cranes Roost Park in Altamonte Springs is known for their fabulous community events. Halloween is no exception.

Every year, their Halloween at Cranes Roost celebration hosts over 15,000 kids who come to trick or treat from booths sponsored by local businesses.

Live entertainment, costume contests, games, and other activities await families who attend.

Check back for details about the 2026 Cranes Roost Park Halloween event.

Downtown Winter Garden’s Annual Halloween Trick-or-Treat

Winter Garden is a beautiful historic neighborhood in Orlando with a charming downtown area full of shops, restaurants, and boutiques.

In late October, they host their annual Halloween Experience, a free 10-day celebration with attractions like a spooky hay maze, seasonal decorations, and fall-themed photo spots.

Stay tuned for more details about the 2026 Halloween event in Winter Garden!

Lake Nona Graveyard Smash

The Lake Nona Graveyard Smash is an exciting community Halloween event typically held the Saturday before Halloween.

Roam through Lake Nona Town Center alongside character performers, have your face painted, and enjoy Halloween-themed entertainment.

Kids can trick or treat at interactive stations, collecting candy while getting into the spooky spirit.

Be sure to check out Lake Nona Town Center restaurants for fun themed beverages and treats available for purchase to be enjoyed throughout the event.

The official date for Lake Nona Graveyard Smash 2026 is TBD.

All Treats, No Tricks at Rosen Plaza this Halloween Season

Sweeten your Orlando vacation with a stay at Rosen Plaza this year.

When you’re not out collecting candy, you could be lounging by our beautiful pool, savoring a steak dinner at Jack’s Place, or enjoying any of the nearby International Drive attractions.

You’ll appreciate our comfortable accommodations, friendly hospitality, and convenient location.

Book your Halloween stay with us today.

Terrifying screams will engulf Universal Studios Florida once again as the park celebrates its thirty-fifth frightful year of Halloween Horror Nights.

Fearless guests can find thrills at 10 new haunted houses, multiple scare zones, and exclusive shows.

HHN 35 will run on select nights from August 28 to November 1, 2026. Here’s a look at some of the attractions that await you at HHN this year.

Key Takeaways

• 2026 Halloween Horror Nights Haunted Houses
• The Fear Doesn’t Stop There
• Other Fun Halloween Horror Nights 35 Activities
• End Your Night at a Comfortable Orlando Hotel

2026 Halloween Horror Nights Haunted Houses

Each year, Universal Orlando designs terrifying and elaborate haunted houses based on popular horror franchises.

Guests can immerse themselves into worlds of terror and torture – for their own enjoyment, of course.

Here’s a look at the 2026 haunted house lineup at HHN.

• Jack & Oddfellow: Chaos & Control – Madness and mayhem prevail as Jack the Clown and Dr. Oddfellow go head to head in a terrifying battle of chaos vs. control. Guests will dive into the wickedly twisted Oddverse where they’ll find themselves caught in the middle of a fearsome meeting of foes.
• Sinners – Find yourself transported to 1930’s Mississippi at the Smokestack Twins’ juke joint. Here, a troop of bloodthirst vampires have come to crash the party, and they won’t leave until the blues are running red.
• Stranger Things 5 – Based on the final seasons of Netflix’s Stranger Things series, this haunted house pits you and the Hawkins gang against Demogorgons and the Mind Flayer for one last adventure.
• Hellraiser – The depths of hell await you in this haunted house inspired by the original “Hellraiser” trilogy. Bear witness to Pinhead and the Cenobite’s nighmarish rituals as you avoid a realm of enduring pain.
• Evil Dead Burn – Horror is a family affair in this terrifying haunted house based on the new movie, “Evil Dead Burn.” The Book of the Dead has been opened once again, and you’ll need to escape the grasp of possessed Deadites who are out for blood.
• Ozzy Osbourne: Prince of Darkness – Heavy metal legend Ozzy Osbourne’s legacy of darkness lives on in this haunted house where music and mayhem collide.
• H.R. Bloodengutz Presents: A Halloween Fright-Tacular! – A love letter to the frightful fantasies of Halloween, this house contains ghouls, gore, and all the best horrors of this haunting holiday.
• MADLANDS: Caged Cannibals – In a defunct zoo running rampant with cannibals, you’re the prey. Make your way through this dystopian nightmare designed to have you fleeing for your life.
• Cybergoria – The machines have taken over. After years of cryo-sleep, humans have awoken to find they have been stripped of everything that makes up humanity – including flesh.
• INVASION: Alien Abduction – Extraterrestrials have arrived, but they haven’t come in peace. Can you escape their probing tentacles and vicious intentions to abduct and torture you?

This incredible lineup of haunted houses is sure to draw some impressive lines. Spend less time waiting with a Halloween Horror Nights Express pass that lets you skip the regular lines one time at all 10 haunted houses.

V.I.P., or rather, R.I.P. Tours are also available and offer benefits like priority entry to haunted houses and a personal guide to lead you away from impending doom throughout the evening.

The Fear Doesn’t Stop There

If you thought you could walk from one haunted house to the next in peace, you are terribly mistaken.

During Halloween Horror Nights 35, you’ll find four themed sinister scare zones scattered around Universal Studios. Here, scare actors roam through the foggy streets, ready to spook guests.

In 2026, you can look forward to scare zones like Infernal Carnival of Nightmares, Sideshow of Decay, FORTNITEMARES, and Downtown Clown Town.

Other Fun Halloween Horror Nights 35 Activities

When you want a break from screaming, you can rest your voice (and your feet) as you enjoy some eerie entertainment at two live shows.

This year’s lineup includes Nightmare Fuel: Blood Noir, a vampirish production with death-defying stunts and heart-pumping music.

The second show is Stranger Things: Return to Hawkins, a review of five epic seasons of the Netflix series with unforgettable highlights projected onto the Universal Studios lagoon.

While you’re in the park for Halloween Horror Nights 35, you can also experience exhilarating Universal Studios rides and attractions at night.

Select rides will be open for guests to enjoy, including Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts and Revenge of the Mummy.

It’s a great time to ride your favorite coasters and explore the park, since lines are typically a little shorter while other guests are focused on HHN.

If all the thrills and chills have caused you to work up an appetite, check out some of the exclusive food and drinks available to guests during the event.

Designed to spook and satisfy, these indulgences are perfect for enhancing your night exploring haunted houses and sauntering through scare zones.

End Your Night at a Comfortable Orlando Hotel

After a terrifying night at Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights 35, escape to a peaceful hotel room at Rosen Plaza.

Located on International Drive, Rosen Plaza provides affordable luxury and great amenities, all within a few minutes’ drive of your favorite Orlando entertainment.

The hotel is conveniently close to Universal Orlando and some of the area’s top restaurants, bars, and attractions.

Rosen Plaza also offers guests complimentary shuttle transportation to Universal Orlando theme parks, including the brand-new Universal’s Epic Universe.

Rest your head knowing you’ve escaped the monsters and ghouls of HHN 35…

…at least for now.

Located inside Rosen Plaza is a stylish establishment known for its unique decor and a menu full of phenomenal steaks and steakhouse classics — Jack’s Place restaurant on International Drive.

Whether you’ve never been or are craving a return visit, now is the perfect time to plan your next reservation.

Starting August 14 through September 30, 2026, Magical Dining comes to Jack’s Place. During this six weeks, you can join us for a three-course prix-fixe menu for the incredible price of $40 per person.

Here’s a look at what you can expect to find waiting for you during Magical Dining at Jack’s Place.

Key Takeaways

• Appetizers
• Entrees
• Desserts
• With Magical Dining, Every Bite Helps Support a Local Nonprofit
• Jack’s Place: A Restaurant with a Lot of Character(s)

Appetizers

The first course of the Magical Dining menu includes three delicious appetizers.

Start with a divine dish like the Short Rib Ragu over Polenta Cakes. Savory short rib is stacked atop beautiful rounds of polenta, then topped with a refreshing vegetable relish and a red wine demi-glace.

For a delightful seafood option, try the Tuna Tartare. It’s made with tender Yellow Fin tuna, fresh avocado and cucumber, sweet soy sauce, and drizzled with a zesty sriracha aioli.

Your third appetizer option is a classic Caesar Salad topped with fresh-shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano and house-made herbed focaccia croutons for the perfect crunch.

However you choose to begin your meal, your taste buds are sure to be delighted.

Entrees

Once your appetite has been whetted, move onto the main course: entrees.

When it comes to perfectly prepared main ingredient, Jack’s Place always delivers.

This time, you’ll have your choice of four fantastic entrees.

Jack’s Rotisserie Half Chicken is a Magical Dining specialty that’s as comforting as it is indulgent. Tender rotisserie chicken is served with creamy parmesan mashed potatoes, fresh market vegetables, and an elegant sauvignon blanc cream sauce.

The Herb Crusted Salmon is prepared tender and flaky, allowing the subtle flavors of the fish to shine through. That’s where the subtlety of flavors ends. It is served with parmesan mashed potatoes and market vegetables, which are drizzled in a heavenly lemon fennel brown butter.

For a vegetarian dinner option, indulge in the flavors of the Mediterranean with the Pesto Pasta. Fresh pasta is tossed in a fragrant basil pesto sauce for an absolutely delicious main course.

And of course, it wouldn’t be dinner at Jack’s Place without the option to spoil yourself to a perfectly cooked Filet Mignon. This premier cut of steak is melt-in-your mouth tender. Cleanse your palate between bites with the rich and creamy signature Jack’s Au Gratin Potatoes and fresh seasonal vegetables.

Feeling hungry? Upgrade your 6oz filet to a 10oz for only $10 more.

If you’re tempted to dive into a true surf-and-turf experience, enhance your filet with optional items like succulent pan-seared scallops or a juicy broiled lobster tail.

Desserts

Hopefully you’ve saved plenty of room for dessert. You won’t want to miss the delectable offerings at Jack’s Place.

The Chocolate Torte is melt-in-your-mouth magic in every bite. This decadent treat is perfect dessert for any self-proclaimed chocoholic.

This is also a great opportunity to try the award-winning Key Lime Pie at Jack’s Place. This Floridian favorite has the perfect balance of sweet and tart. Its crumbly, buttery crust complements the pie’s delectably creamy filling.

A slice of lemon cheesecake ends your meal with a bright sweetness and a smooth texture that you will undoubtedly savor.

With Magical Dining, Every Bite Helps Support a Local Nonprofit

Every year, Magical Dining uses a portion of proceeds to support an Orlando nonprofit.

With every Magical Dining menu purchased, up to $2 is donated to local nonprofits.

This year’s nonprofits benefitting from Magical Dining are Children’s Safety Village, The Daily Bread, Nathaniel’s Hope, NextStep Orlando, The Nurture Place, and Victim Service Center of Central Florida.

By choosing a Magical Dining experience this fall, you’ll be supporting a wonderful local charity while still enjoying an incredible meal at a participating restaurant like Jack’s Place.

Jack’s Place: A Restaurant with a Lot of Character(s)

There are great steakhouses, and then there are great steakhouses with personality. Jack’s Place in Rosen Plaza is an incredible upscale casual steakhouse with a fantastic story – and the decor to prove it.

The restaurant is a fond love letter to Rosen Hotels & Resorts founder Harris Rosen’s father, Jack.

Jack Rosen worked as a safety engineer at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City in the 1930s. Here he met countless celebrities staying at the hotel. He began to sketch caricatures of the famous guests and eventually became the Waldorf Astoria’s resident caricature artist.

Jack Rosen is credited with creating more than 100,000 caricatures in his lifetime. A special selection of his work, including images of guests such as Queen Elizabeth II, Alfred Hitchcock, and Neil Armstrong, proudly hang on the walls of Jack’s Place.

Whether you’re dining with family, colleagues, friends, or someone special, there’s something everyone will love on the Jack’s Place Magical Dining menu. Don’t wait to make your reservation on OpenTable or by calling (407) 996-1787.

The thrills of Orlando come in many forms besides its iconic theme parks, including the high-octane showcases of the city’s top athletes.

Summer is coming to an end, which means the season of our favorite sports is on the horizon. Trade in your beach and swimwear for your favorite athlete’s jersey and spend your next adventure in The City Beautiful watching top-tier professional and college athletes in action.

Whether you’re in the mood for a game of football, soccer, or basketball, fall has something for every fan. With the amenities and dining options of Rosen Plaza Hotel, you’re fueled for each day of athletic spectacles.

Gear up for an exciting assortment of sporting events in Orlando to enjoy this fall.

Key Takeaways

• College Football
• Professional Basketball
• Minor League Hockey
• College Volleyball
• Professional Soccer
• It’s Game Time in Orlando

College Football

Roll the tide with fellow college football fans as the University of Central Florida (UCF) Knights kick off the season with a home game against Bethune-Cookman University on September 3, 2026.

Those visiting Orlando later in the month can catch the Knights battling Georgia State University on September 19. The team will also take on TCU on September 26 in this year’s Big 12 Conference kickoff.

Stopping by in October? Grab your favorite snacks and cheer for the Knights in their Homecoming game against BYU on October 24.

Planning a Halloween vacation in The City Beautiful? The Knights’ “Mission X” Space Game against Baylor on October 30 continues UCF’s exciting tradition of space-themed football games.

The end of the season includes a matchup against Arizona State University on November 14. Dress up in your best Knights gear for their final home game against Iowa State on November 20.

Professional Basketball

It’s nothing but net for basketball fans visiting Orlando for a break from the season’s sweater weather.

If you want to watch the Orlando Magic in action during the pre-season, October is the best time for your stay.

The Magic’s first pre-season game is set against the Cleveland Cavaliers on October 13. Grab some burgers, hotdogs, and nachos from the snack bar to stay fueled for a showdown of 3-pointers and slam dunks.

Make it a week-long sports fan adventure and stick around for the Magic’s game against the Miami Heat on October 16. Imagine jumping up as the Magic score the winning basket before the buzzer goes off, celebrating the big “W” with fellow hoop heads.

Minor League Hockey

If you’re wondering what Orlando’s hockey scene is all about, the East Coast Hockey League’s Orlando Solar Bears will show you.

The Solar Bears begin the season against the Florida Everblades on October 18. Make the following week a minor league hockey retreat with showdowns against the South Carolina Stingrays on October 24 and a rematch against the Everblades on October 25 at the Kia Center.

November sets the stage for multiple Solar Bears home games against rivals such as the Atlanta Gladiators, Savannah Ghost Pirates, and Jacksonville Icemen.

Looking for fun ways to spend your Thanksgiving vacation in Orlando? The Solar Bears’ back-to-back home games against the Greenville Swamp Rabbits on November 27 and 28 offer a spectacle of snap shots and backhand shots for your festive adventures.

College Volleyball

While volleyballers will have to wait until next summer for fun in the sand, the UCF Knights are serving up exciting games to enjoy in the meantime.

The Knights women’s volleyball team will square off against Kansas State at home on September 24.

The fall season continues with more opportunities to watch the Knights in Orlando, including October 9 against Cincinnati, October 11 against Kansas, and October 18 against West Virginia.

The Knights will have their work cut out for them with matchups throughout the next month against Iowa State (November 5), Houston (November 8), and Colorado (November 22).

Save time during your Orlando Thanksgiving for watching the Knights spike their way to victory against BYU on November 25 and Utah on November 27.

Professional Soccer

The FIFA World Cup may be over for the year, but fans who are still looking to scratch that soccer itch have plenty of sporting events in Orlando to enjoy.

Inter&Co Stadium is the place to be, with Orlando City Soccer Club (SC) taking on San Diego on September 5 and Toronto a week later on September 12. International Drive is also full of sports bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a hearty meal and refreshing drinks while watching a game with the Lions.

Bring your good luck soccer gear and help Orlando win against Columbus on October 10, D.C. United on October 17, and New York City on October 24.

Orlando City SC will square off against New England in their last game of the year on November 7, so don’t miss the chance to yell “Goal!” as they land the winning shot.

Women’s soccer fans join the fun with several Orlando Pride (NWSL) games at Inter&Co Stadium throughout the fall.

Watch NWSL’s best show off their volley and inside foot shots against the Houston Dash on September 6 and the Portland Thorns on September 19. The soccer extravaganzas continue on October 2 against the San Diego Wave and October 25 against the Gotham FC.

It’s Game Time in Orlando

Sports fans of all ages unite in Orlando this fall to cheer on the city’s best athletes in college and the pros.

Spectacles of touchdowns, power drives, and slam dunks spark reminders of what made you a fan. With all of Orlando’s options for sporting events this season, there’s a chance to become a new fan around every corner.

Rosen Plaza has the luxurious accommodations you need to recharge after each exhilarating showdown. Whether you want to fuel up with a breakfast buffet before the game or celebrate your team’s victory with fine dining or meals by the pool, we have you covered.

Book your fall vacation with us today and witness Orlando’s best athletes in action.

So, you’ve done your research and found a cheap flight to Orlando International Airport (MCO). All that’s left to do is show up at your local airport, have a fun vacation, and fly home…right?

Well, almost.

MCO is a sprawling airport. It’s the busiest in Florida and the ninth busiest in the United States.

The hustle and bustle can disorient and exhaust arriving and departing flyers alike. Before getting to the airport, it’s important to have a game plan.

Here are seven tips for getting through Orlando International Airport like a pro.

Key Takeaways

• • 1. Download the MCO App
  • 2. Arrive to the Orlando International Airport Early
  • 3. Know Your Terminal and Gate
  • 4. Pack Your Orlando Souvenirs Wisely
  • 5. Skip the MCO Security Line
  • 6. Bring Your Appetite
  • 7. Plan Your Orlando Airport Parking or Transportation Strategy
  • Prepare for a Comfortable Takeoff at Rosen Plaza

1. Download the MCO App

Not only is MCO crowded — it’s also massive. At 21 square miles, it’s the third largest airport in the country — big enough to make you wish you had a map in your pocket.

Luckily, there’s an app for that!

In addition to helping you get around the airport, the MCO app provides estimated security line wait times and updates on your flight.

Keep track of parking availability and find precisely where you left your car to save time driving and wandering around the parking lots.

You’ll also find information on shopping, dining, and ground transportation options.

The app is free and available to both Android and iPhone users.

2. Arrive to the Orlando International Airport Early

In 2025, MCO served over 57 million travelers. 2026 is expected to surpass that record-setting number.

That’s a lot of people, and many are young flyers still learning the ins and outs of air travel. As a result, getting through security can take longer than other airports.

The general rule of thumb is to arrive at the airport 2 hours before a domestic flight’s departure time.

MCO officials, however, recommend getting to the Orlando airport 3 hours in advance. Doing so will ensure you have ample time to check any bags, get through security, and find your gate.

3. Know Your Terminal and Gate

With the opening of Terminal C in 2022, MCO now has three terminals split between two buildings.

Each terminal is accessible only via one of the airport’s Automatic People Movers (APMs). If you board the wrong APM, you’ll spend precious time backtracking.

And depending on where you end up, you may need to go through security again to get where you’re headed.

The moment you arrive at the airport, verify your terminal and gate information on the airport display system. Then use the MCO app to find the right place.

Driving to the airport and flying from Terminal C? Be sure to park in a Terminal C parking lot for extra convenience.

4. Pack Your Orlando Souvenirs Wisely

Many travelers view their Orlando vacation as a chance to shop ‘til they drop.

As you pack your sweet souvenirs, remember some items need to go in checked luggage.

One of the TSA’s best-known rules is the 3-1-1 rule, which states that you can bring a single 1 qt. bag of liquid goods on the plane with you. Each item in it needs to be 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less.

Of course, 3-1-1 applies to things like perfumes, wine, and bottled water.

Gels such as fruit preserves or some deodorants also fall under the rule.

Other liquids may not be so obvious.

For instance, your standard magic eight ball holds 3.5 oz. of liquid and will need to go in a checked bag. Glowsticks you picked up at the parks will count toward the 3-1-1 rule. And any snow globes in your carry-on will need to be 3.4 oz. (about the size of a tennis ball) or smaller.

When packing up your new finds, also consider the following:

Inflated balloons are not allowed on airplanes.

However, you can stop by the Disney Store in the main terminal before security and ask them to deflate your Mickey balloon before boarding. When you arrive at your destination, have your local party supply store refill it.

Many toy weapons, like foam swords and Nerf guns, need to go in a checked bag. However, Harry Potter wands and Star Wars lightsabers are allowed in your carry-on.

Wait until you get home before wrapping any presents you bought in Orlando. Otherwise, you may find a hardworking TSA agent undoing your hard work.

Another option is to wait and buy your souvenirs at the airport. Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld each have shops in all three terminals at MCO.

5. Skip the MCO Security Line

With so many awesome stores and restaurants in Orlando International Airport, you’ll want to minimize your time in the security line and maximize your time in your terminal.

Luckily, MCO offers a few options to get you shopping and snacking in no time.

TSA PreCheck

TSA PreCheck lets qualifying flyers zip through security, usually in 5 minutes or less. And all without having to take out your 3-1-1 bag or laptop and remove your shoes, belt, and jacket.

This members-only program is open to U.S. citizens and nationals and lawful permanent residents.

To join, you’ll need to visit an application center close to home. The application costs $78 and entails a short form, background check, and fingerprinting.

Most applications are approved in 3-5 days, at which you’ll receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN). When booking flights with a participating airline, provide your KTN when prompted.

Your TSA PreCheck membership lasts five years, at which you’ll fill out a new application and pay a $70 renewal fee.

Citizens of the United Kingdom, Mexico, Brazil, and 11 other countries may qualify for Global Entry, a program granting you the same benefits as TSA PreCheck.

CLEAR Plus

In 2010, Orlando International Airport became the first to adopt CLEAR Plus, a biometric program that gets you to the front of the security line.

CLEAR Plus memberships cost $219 per year.

You can register online or at a participating airport. When you get to airport security, approach a CLEAR kiosk and scan your boarding pass, then your fingerprints or irises.

You’ll be escorted to the front of the line and then complete the security screening as usual.

6. Bring Your Appetite

Eating at the airport can save you time and gives you something to do if you make it to your terminal early.

MCO has some great dining options that reflect the culinary diversity and quality of the city at large.

Terminal A features familiar favorites like Chick-fil-A, McDonald’s, and Chipotle for grab-and-go-meals.

It’s also home to specialty restaurants like Cask & Larder, a brewpub owned by culinary power couple James and Julie Petrakis.

Camden Food Co. serves custom and pre-made salads and sandwiches in Terminal B, or enjoy casual dining options like Ruby Tuesday, Outback Steakhouse, and Bahama Breeze.

Over in Terminal C, you’ll find loads of local flavor. MCO’s newest terminal has a second Cask & Larder location, Sunshine Diner by Chef Art Smith, and other exciting options.

You’ll also find brand new restaurants representing local culinary hot spots like Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream, Maxine’s on Shine, 4Rivers, Smoke & Donuts, and more.

7. Plan Your Orlando Airport Parking or Transportation Strategy

Parking can be brutal at MCO, especially depending on the time of year you’re traveling.

Parking lots have been known to fill quickly and rideshare demand can drive prices at peak times.

Knowing what to anticipate ahead of time can help take the stress out of getting to and from the airport.

Before driving to the airport, check MCO’s website for real-time updates on parking capacity. You’ll be able to see which lot has the most spaces available prior to your arrival.

There are also plenty of places to park your car offsite that often offer lower rates and a shuttle services from MCO back to your car upon your return.

If you’re planning to get to your destination via rideshare, it’s always recommended to pre-schedule your ride to avoid long waits or surge pricing.

It’s also helpful to know where you’re going to meet your driver. Uber and Lyft pick up at designated areas on Level 2 of Terminals A and B.

Signage is usually clear, but it never hurts to give yourself a little extra time to figure out exactly where you’re going.

Prepare for a Comfortable Takeoff at Rosen Plaza

Rosen Plaza is the perfect hotel to rest up before departing to your next destination.

Our Orlando hotel is in the heart of the city and offers amenities like a free Universal Orlando shuttle, making it easy to explore.

Take time to enjoy our onsite dining, lounge by a crystal-clear pool, and explore the best entertainment Orlando has to offer.

Then, when your time in The City Beautiful comes to an end, you’ll be just 15 minutes away from Orlando International Airport.

Hallmark might not make cards for National Girlfriend Day (yet), but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a holiday worth celebrating.

August 1 has been designated National Girlfriend Day, and while there’s some debate over whether it’s meant to celebrate romantic or platonic girlfriends, we figure it’s always a good time to treat a special lady to a memorable experience.

After all, we could all use a good excuse to spend more quality time together, right?

With that, we thought we’d help inspire you to put together a few ideas to surprise your girlfriend.

(And, side note, all of these can be fun platonic girlfriend hangouts, too.)

Here are 11 date ideas she’ll love for National Girlfriend Day.

Key Takeaways

• Enjoy a Swan Boat Ride at Lake Eola
• Spend the Day at Wekiva Island
• Pick Her a Pearl at Disney Springs
• Learn to Cook Something New
• Make Custom Art Together
• Swim with Dolphins at Discovery Cove
• Engage in Friendly Competition at Top Golf
• Do a Food Tour at East End Market
• Check Out a Local Farmer’s Market
• Cheer on the Orlando Pride
• Savor a Stay at Rosen Plaza

Enjoy a Swan Boat Ride at Lake Eola

At the heart of The City Beautiful, Lake Eola offers a peaceful oasis amidst towering buildings and the sprawling urban landscape of Downtown Orlando.

It’s home to a multitude of landscaped gardens, beautiful art installations, and the town’s iconic Lake Eola fountain.

On Tuesdays through Sundays, visitors can rent a pedal-powered swan boat to enjoy the peace of the lake and view the magnificent fountain up close.

Enjoy a 30-minute rental for only $15. Pets are welcome, too.

After your boat ride, spend some time walking around the lake and taking in the sights. Then, end with a drink and something to eat at a nearby restaurant like The Stubborn Mule or Thrive Cocktail Lounge & Eatery.

Spend the Day at Wekiva Island

If your girlfriend loves the great outdoors, there’s no better way to spend National Girlfriend’s Day than at Wekiva Island.

This unique destination is located on the lush banks of the Wekiva River, offering a variety of ways to explore and enjoy the surrounding tropical wilderness.

Take to the water with canoe, kayak, or paddleboard rentals and keep your eyes open for local wildlife like alligators, manatees, turtles, and birds.

Toast to your girlfriend(s) with a refreshing cold beer or a glass of wine from the onsite bar, The Tooting Otter. If you’ve paddled up an appetite, the onsite food truck, Without a Paddle Cafe, makes fresh eats like burgers, tacos, and sandwiches.

Pull up a couple of Adirondack chairs on the boardwalk and watch the world float by on the Wekiva River in a beautiful, peaceful setting.

Pick Her a Pearl at Disney Springs

Jewelry is always a great gift, especially on National Girlfriend Day.

Take your gift-giving to the next level and take her to create a custom piece at The Pearl Factory in Disney Springs.

This sweet kiosk offers guests the opportunity to pick their own pearl-bearing saltwater oyster and reveal the special round pearl awaiting them inside.

Once the pearl has been revealed, you can choose to have it set in one of over 135 jewelry settings in 14K white, yellow, or rose gold, or sterling silver.

You’ll leave with a one-of-a-kind gift that will forever evoke the memory of making it together.

Complete your date with a special meal at one of Disney Springs’ fabulous restaurants or a sunset ride on the Aerophile, a tethered helium balloon offering panoramic views of Orlando.

Learn to Cook Something New

Learning together is a great way to make meaningful memories – and it’s even better when the result is something delicious.

Truffles and Trifles is an independent cooking school in the Orlando neighborhood of College Park, named one of the top five cooking schools in the United States by the Food Network.

They offer a variety of class themes like Northern Italian, French Pastry Techniques, Tacos and Tequila, and a special Date Night class focusing on cocktails and appetizers.

Don your aprons and get ready to cook, laugh, and make a mess.

Make Custom Art Together

Does your girlfriend love getting creative?

Take her to Abstract Orlando, a fluid art studio where you can create custom pieces that aren’t just fun to make – they also serve as treasured souvenirs long after date night has come and gone.

Start by picking out your “canvas”, whether it’s a statuette, a piece of serving ware, or a piece of wall art.

Then, choose your color palette. A skilled fluid art specialist will put together your supplies and walk you through creating your masterpiece.

Pick up your dried and professionally polished artwork seven days later and display it somewhere you can see it and be reminded of your wonderful date together.

Swim with Dolphins at Discovery Cove

Cross “swimming with dolphins” off your girlfriend’s bucket list with a day at Discovery Cove in Orlando.

This all-inclusive day resort is a true gem, offering incredible experiences alongside some of the planet’s most magnificent marine animals.

Interact with gentle dolphins, snorkel with graceful rays, and hand-feed tropical birds in an aviary that feels like paradise.

When you’re not hanging out with new creature friends, enjoy relaxing on a white sandy beach together, or gently floating down the Wind-Away River.

A Discovery Cove day pass also includes unlimited food and select beer and wine, with premium drink packages available as an upgrade.

Wetsuits, animal-safe sunscreen, and lounge chairs are all included in the experience, too.

Engage in Friendly Competition at Top Golf

There’s nothing wrong with getting a little competitive in a relationship.

Put your golf skills to the test with a date at Top Golf, a high-tech driving range designed for fun and entertainment.

Settle into a private covered bay, outdoors but equipped with cooling fans for warmer months and heaters for when temperatures drop.

Treat yourself to a fun drink and some delicious food to enjoy as you play a fun game that challenges golfers of all skill levels in unique and interactive ways.

Great music, big TVs in each bay, and comfortable lounge furniture all make Top Golf the perfect place for a relaxed date night that fosters friendly competition.

Do a Food Tour at East End Market

East End Market is an Orlando foodie paradise.

Not only is it home to DOMU, a Michelin Bib Gourmand ramen restaurant; it’s also the perfect place to conduct your own mini food tour date.

Inside East End Market, you’ll find a variety of vendors peddling culinary specialties and artisan goods.

Start with something savory from Winter Park Biscuit Company or a cheese selection from La Femme du Fromage. Eat fresh poke from Rion’s Ocean Room (owned and operated by DOMU chef Sonny Nguyen), or try Japanese Gyukatsu from Gyukatsu Rose.

When it’s time for something sweet, pop over to Gideon’s Bakehouse, the flagship location of the viral bakery that draws wild crowds at its Disney Springs location.

There’s also WAFU, which serves taiyaki, or Japanese fish-shaped waffles stuffed with sweet or savory fillings.

If this date idea appeals to you and your lady, you may want to arriver on the side of an earlier time frame; some East End vendors are known to sell out before closing at the end of the day.

Check Out a Local Farmer’s Market

For a special morning date, venture out to one of the area’s charming farmers markets.

On Saturdays, the Winter Park Farmers Market is a bustling community event where you can find produce, plants, baked goods, coffee, and plenty of other unique finds.

Afterwards, you can stroll through Central Park’s quaint rose garden or head to Briarpatch for one of the best brunches in Orlando.

Also held on Saturdays is the Winter Garden Farmers Market, an award-winning weekly event with live music, artisan goods, handmade items, and much more.

Your girlfriend will love swinging by Rosallie, a picture-perfect French cafe in Winter Garden with swoon-worthy pastries and irresistible European charm.

The Orlando Farmers Market takes over Lake Eola on Sunday mornings, hosting over 100 vendors every week. It’s known for being dog-friendly, so let the pup be your third wheel on your date!

Cheer on the Orlando Pride

Supporting local Orlando sports is something everyone can get behind.

National Girlfriend Day happens to fall during the thick of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) season.

Orlando’s home team, The Orlando Pride, won the 2024 NWSL Championship, becoming the city’s first professional sports team to bring home a major league trophy.

Put on your purple and head to the beautiful Inter&Co Stadium downtown to watch an exciting match and cheer on some of the baddest women in The City Beautiful.

While you’re there, you can dine on delicious food from local restaurants like 4 Rivers, Black Rooster Taqueria, and Teak Neighborhood Grill, all of whom have counters in the stadium.

Savor a Relaxing Stay at Rosen Plaza

The best way to treat your girlfriend this National Girlfriend Day is with a stay at Rosen Plaza in Orlando.

Enjoy a relaxing day sipping tropical cocktails by the pool or dipping your toes into the tropical whirlpool.

Then, enjoy dinner at Jack’s Place, our signature steakhouse where, on Friday and Saturday evenings, you can have your caricature drawn by a professional artist as a memento of your visit.

Step outside and find yourself in the midst of Orlando’s thriving entertainment district with bustling nightlife, or head back to your beautiful room for a great night’s sleep in our comfortable beds.

Show your girlfriend how much she means to you by sweeping her off her feet this National Girlfriend Day.

Summer in Orlando is prime time to visit one of the area’s fantastic water parks.

There’s no better way to beat the heat than by floating along a lazy river, flying down an epic water slide, or unwinding in a private cabana with a tropical drink in hand.

Walt Disney World® Resort , Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando each have their own themed water parks balancing refreshing thrills and relaxing sandy beach vibes in their own unique ways.

Naturally, these incredible water parks draw big crowds in the summer, which can lead to long lines and more time waiting in the intense Florida sun.

This summer, experience Orlando’s water parks in a new way by visiting them after dark.

Three water parks – SeaWorld Aquatica, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, and Universal’s Volcano Bay – are hosting separately ticketed family-friendly events for exclusive access to their most popular attractions.

With limited tickets available, attendees can look forward to short lines, special menu items, and other magic moments you won’t experience any other time of year.

Need help deciding which event to attend?

Here’s a look at the three biggest summer 2026 water park after-hours events in Orlando.

Key Takeaways

• AquaGlow at Aquatica
• Disney H2O Glow at Typhoon Lagoon
• Universal Volcano Bay Nights
• Experience the Best of Orlando Water Park Nightlife While Staying at Rosen Plaza

AquaGlow at Aquatica

Select Nights May 15 – Sept. 26, 2026

Aquatica is a fantastic Orlando water park packed with thrilling rides and slides.

By day, it’s one of the area’s most popular water parks, perfect for staying cool on a warm, sunny day.

By night, it transforms into an exciting neon wonderland for its exclusive AquaGlow event.

Experience Aquatica like never before, complete with dance parties, laser light shows, and an epic foam party with a DJ spinning popular tunes.

Throughout the park, you’ll find immersive glow zones, which are breathtaking light installations that add pops of vibrant color against the night sky.

Unique to AquaGlow are attraction overlays that transform popular slides and rides just for the event.

New overlays for 2026 include Electric Tides, a spectacular laser show set in the wave pool, and Riptide Ravers, which amps up the competitive Riptide Race slides with music, lights, and plenty of extra energy.

Take on Roa’s Rapids AMPED UP, which sends riders careening through neon light tunnels with mist effects, or enjoy the serenity of LUMINOUSE Lane, an overlay of the lazy river with soft glowing lights.

The exciting Tassie’s NEON Twist returns this summer, too, transforming the fan-favorite slide into a kaleidoscope of swirling colors and exciting music.

On Aquatica’s sandy beach, you’ll find the Beach Bash, which hosts games and activities the whole family can enjoy together.

Tickets start at $49.99 (kids under 3 are free) and include unlimited complimentary soft drinks and a commemorative bracelet. You can also add a meal package with a drink and entree for an additional $10 per ticket.

While it’s the least expensive of the three after-hours water park events, keep in mind it doesn’t include parking, which adds an additional $27 per vehicle to your cost.

The event officially begins at 8 p.m., but early admission starts at 4 p.m., meaning you get extra time in the water park before the party kicks off.

Disney H2O Glow at Typhoon Lagoon

Select Dates June 2 – Sept. 5, 2026

Typhoon Lagoon is Disney’s water park that emulates tropical paradise surrounding the story of a long-ago shipwreck.

Their H2O Glow event is a fantastic way to experience everything the park has to offer with limited crowds, complimentary perks, and exclusive character meet-and-greets.

The water park’s top attractions will be open all night long, including North America’s largest wave pool, Miss Adventure Falls whitewater raft ride, and the coaster-like Crush ‘n’ Gusher water slide.

Show off your dance moves at an electrifying DJ dance party, where you can meet Disney characters like Powerline Max, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Chip ‘n’ Dale Rescue Rangers, Scrooge McDuck, and Launchpad McQuack.

Enjoy specialty snacks and beverages included in the cost of your ticket, like unlimited popcorn and novelty ice cream treats. Other exclusive food and beverage items are available for purchase.

Tickets cost $85 to $89 per person, but kids ages 3 to 9 cost only $65 to $69 (little ones under 3 are free!)

Parking, towels, and life jackets are included in the price.

H2O Glow officially runs from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m., but ticket holders get Typhoon Lagoon entry beginning at 6 p.m.

Universal Volcano Bay Nights

Select Nights May 3 – Aug. 21, 2026

Universal Volcano Bay is one of the most recognizable theme parks in Orlando with its towering Krakatau volcano, often seen billowing clouds of steam into the sky.

At night, the volcano is illuminated by colorful LED lights, establishing the vibes for a unique and exciting after-hours event.

Volcano Bay Nights brings energy and fun to the water park in a way that only Universal can.

Attendees can enjoy an epic Beach Bash, complete with games, a live DJ, and appearances from beloved characters like Shrek, Fiona, and Puss in Boots from the Shrek franchise.

Familiar Viking faces from How to Train Your Dragon have been known to drop by the party from time to time, too.

Some complimentary snacks are included with admission to the event, including mini churros, golden pineapple and coconut popcorn, and unlimited soda.

The event is also known for its specialty foods available for purchase, including tasty tots and savory cones stuffed with fillings like macaroni and cheese.

Volcano Bay Nights is the longest event of the three options, running from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. However, you can still arrive at 4 p.m. for non-exclusive access to the rides and attractions until the party starts.

Tickets for Volcano Bay Nights are the most expensive at $99 per person ages 3 and older (kids under 3 are free), but they include an extra hour of party time, standard parking, and the complimentary treats mentioned above.

Experience the Best of Orlando Water Park Nightlife While Staying at Rosen Plaza

If you’re planning a summer trip to Orlando, consider this your sign to buy a ticket to one of these amazing after-hours water park events.

You’ll get to experience the best of Orlando’s water parks with little to no lines, exclusive family-friendly party vibes, and without the need for sunscreen!

For the moments when you’re not living it up on waterslides or floating the evening away on a lazy river, make Rosen Plaza your home base.

Our spacious and comfortable rooms are the perfect place to rest and relax, and our seasonally heated pool is perfect for enjoying moments of blissful downtime.

Treat yourself to something delicious from our onsite dining establishments and wander along I-Drive to see the best of Orlando’s entertainment district.

You’ll never miss a moment when you stay at Rosen Plaza.