10 Top Neighborhoods in Orlando for a Relaxing Stay Away from the Theme Parks!
10 Top Neighborhoods in Orlando for a Relaxing Stay Away from the Theme Parks!
There are so many things to do in Orlando besides the theme parks. For example, Orlando’s beaches and lakes make great vacation spots, but many people never realize this during their stay.
When I took my family to Walt Disney World for the first time, we stayed in the central Downtown Orlando area and had to battle a lot of crowds as a result. For our next visit, we decided to stay somewhere quieter. I researched hidden gem Orlando neighborhoods and found Winter Park, with its peaceful ambiance and scenic streets.
Our stay in Winter Park put us close to the park but far enough to enjoy a much more laid-back vacation.
There are many unique neighborhoods in Orlando that make a great vacation spot. Going outside of the main city can give you lower rates, fewer crowds, and beautiful views for you to enjoy when you’re relaxing after theme park visits.
Orlando Neighborhoods to Explore
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Celebration — A quiet Disney-inspired town with a fun mini theme park.
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Winter Park — An artsy, lakeside city with beautiful shops, art galleries, and dining options.
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Dr. Phillips — A peaceful neighborhood within close driving distance of many popular attractions.
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Lake Nona — A modern, family-friendly area with beautiful outdoor spaces.
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Thornton Park — A historic, charming neighborhood perfect for couples or solo travelers.
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Baldwin Park — A lakeside community with plenty of green space and walking trails.
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Windermere — A luxury residential area with beautiful views and easy access to the water.
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College Park — A retro town with a charming, vintage feel and nice attractions nearby.
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Audubon Park — An eco-first town with a well-known market and hipster stores.
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MetroWest — A lowkey destination with an award-winning golf course, lakes, and lots of outdoor space.
Are there any Orlando neighborhoods or areas that are ideal for staying outside of the theme parks?
For a more relaxed stay outside Orlando’s theme parks, Dr. Phillips, Celebration, Lake Nona, and Baldwin Park offer great alternatives.
Dr. Phillips is an upscale area with lakeside views, fine dining, and proximity to major attractions, while Celebration, originally developed by Disney, features picturesque streets, charming shops, and a small-town vibe, while still being close to the parks.
Lake Nona is a growing area known for its modern amenities, health and wellness centers, and tranquil atmosphere, while Baldwin Park offers a scenic, walkable community with parks, restaurants, and a laid-back, residential feel.
1 | Celebration | Celebration, Florida is an adorable town, and if you’re a Disney fan, you’ll feel at home here right away!
Originally developed by The Walt Disney Company, Celebration is packed with that Magic Kingdom charm but is far less crowded than the main areas near Walt Disney World.
Old Town is my favorite spot with its beautiful Ferris wheel that lights up at night. There are also nice restaurants, shops, and a weekly classic car show!
Distance: Only 10 minutes from Disney World.
FAQ: Is Celebration a good place to stay for families?
Yes, Celebration is an excellent choice for families! It offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including a scenic lake, parks, walking trails, and seasonal events like holiday festivals and parades.
The neighborhood also has excellent restaurants, shops, and even a mini theme park, which are perfect for family outings. With its blend of convenience, charm, and comfort, it’s a fantastic place for families to stay during their Orlando vacation.
Dining Tip: Try Columbia Restaurant for Spanish and Cuban cuisine.
Best For: Families and visitors who want a peaceful, small-town vibe near Disney World.
Insider Tip: Celebration’s seasonal events offer fun things to do in Orlando, like fall festivals and holiday decorations.
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2 | Winter Park | We instantly fell in love with Winter Park when we arrived for our Disney vacation!
It’s a peaceful, upscale neighborhood with beautiful lakes, scenic views, and plenty of space to enjoy nature walks.
There are also plenty of great indoor activities in Orlando here, like touring art galleries or shopping at boutiques.
When you stay in Winter Park, you get the comfort of a familial neighborhood with all the convenience of staying less than half an hour from Disney. It’s a win-win!
Distance: 20 minutes from Universal Studios and Disney World.
FAQ: How far is Winter Park from major attractions?
Winter Park is 20-30 minutes from central Orlando and its major attractions including Universal Studios, Disney World, SeaWorld, and CityWalk.
Local Tip: The Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour is a great way to enjoy lake views and historic homes.
Best For: Art and nature lovers looking for a scenic, cultural escape.
Insider Tip: Visit during the Winter Park Art Festival in March for local and national exhibits.
3 | Dr. Phillips | Dr. Phillips is one of the most underrated alternative Orlando vacation spots.
This neighborhood offers top-notch dining and luxury experiences that make your Orlando vacation rental truly feel like a five-star getaway.
The town is named after a citrus farmer who sold most of his property to Minute Maid in the 1950s. So, this place is a real slice of Florida history!
One place you’ll want to check out is Restaurant Row, filled with delicious eateries serving up every type of fare you could dream of. From family-friendly establishments to luxury steakhouses, it’s the best place to eat in the area.
Distance: 15 minutes from both Disney World and Universal Studios.
FAQ: Why is Dr. Phillips a good area for families?
Dr. Phillips is a peaceful, family-friendly neighborhood close to major attractions like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios.
It also offers excellent dining options, with Restaurant Row being a standout, featuring a variety of family-friendly eateries. With its blend of convenience, serenity, and proximity to attractions, Dr. Phillips is a fantastic choice for families visiting the area.
Dining Tip: Explore Restaurant Row’s diverse options, from Rocco’s Tacos to Eddie V’s.
Best For: Foodies and upscale travelers who appreciate fine dining and convenience.
Insider Tip: Check out food and wine events along Restaurant Row for a taste of local Florida cuisine.
4 | Lake Nona | Gorgeous Lake Nona gives you some breathing room from the hustle and bustle of Downtown Orlando.
It’s one of the best neighborhoods in Orlando to stay in if you want some distance from the theme parks but still want to be within a short driving distance.
This is an innovative neighborhood with a youthful feeling that has a lot of open green spaces for families to enjoy.
Distance: 25 minutes from major theme parks like Disney World and Universal Studios.
FAQ: Is Lake Nona a family-friendly area?
Yes, Lake Nona is a highly family-friendly area in Orlando. With its wide open spaces, numerous parks, walking trails, and community events, it offers an ideal environment for families looking to relax and enjoy nature. Additionally, with attractions like Boxi Park offering live music and family-friendly activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Local Tip: Enjoy the local art installations, walking trails, and community events around Lake Nona Town Center.
Best For: Families seeking a modern, comfortable neighborhood.
Insider Tip: Check out Boxi Park for outdoor dining, live music, and family activities.
5 | Thornton Park | Thornton Park is one of the best non-touristy places in Orlando to stay at. This neighborhood is filled with charming bungalow homes, towering oak trees, and an array of vibrant eateries and boutique shops.
The picturesque streets, combined with a European feel on Washington Street, make Thornton Park a standout neighborhood for those seeking a peaceful yet stylish stay.
It’s the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern-day appeal, offering trendy boutiques for some retail therapy, as well as upscale dining establishments and cozy wine bars perfect for a relaxing evening out.
Whether you're exploring on foot or relaxing in one of the many green spaces, Thornton Park is an elegant and timeless community ideal for out-of-towners looking for a laid-back vacation.
Distance: 15 minutes from Downtown Orlando.
FAQ: What activities are there in Thornton Park for a quiet day?
Kick off your morning with breakfast at one of the local cafes, stroll along Main Street to admire the classic architecture and scenery, and spend your afternoon in a nearby park or at one of the boutiques. Finish off your day with a lovely dinner and drinks at one of Thornton Park’s famous wine bars. You can also visit Downtown Orlando’s nearby Lake Eola Park for an afternoon or evening stroll.
Dining Tip: Visit local favorites like The Falcon Bar and Soco Restaurant for an unforgettable meal.
Best For: Couples or solo travelers who love historic charm with a downtown vibe.
Insider Tip: Thornton Park hosts a monthly Art Walk featuring local artists and live music—perfect for an evening out.
6 | Baldwin Park | Baldwin Park is one of my favorite Orlando neighborhoods with undeniable local charm.
This lakeside community features scenic paved walkways, a charming dock with a gazebo, and an abundance of green spaces perfect for leisurely strolls. It’s the ideal place for a relaxing retreat away from the theme parks.
There are 20 parks within the neighborhood, two serene lakes, three refreshing pools, and a village center that’s perfect for a sunny afternoon stroll. With so much greenery, scenic beauty, and walking trails, Baldwin Park offers plenty of free things to do in Orlando for a day of exploration.
Whether you're looking to relax or get active, Baldwin Park is perfect for those who enjoy an active lifestyle without sacrificing the calm and charm of a neighborhood community.
Distance: 20 minutes from Disney and Universal.
FAQ: Are there pet-friendly places to stay in Baldwin Park?
Yes, Baldwin Park has pet-friendly cottages and several major hotels with their own pet policies. Be sure to check availability and policies before booking your stay!
Dining Tip: Enjoy lakefront views at The Osprey and indulge in fresh sushi at Seito Sushi for an unforgettable dining experience.
Best For: Families and pet owners looking for a calm, scenic environment with plenty of outdoor activities.
Insider Tip: Baldwin Park’s Village Center hosts events like farmers' markets, live music, and holiday festivities—perfect for a charming day out.
7 | Windermere | Windermere is known for its upscale homes, tranquil lakes, and serene suburban feel, making it one of the best neighborhoods for relaxing things to do in Orlando.
If you’re looking to savor the calm of a residential neighborhood while staying just a short drive from Disney, Windermere is the perfect choice.
This picturesque community lies along the Butler Chain of Lakes, making it an ideal spot for boaters and outdoor enthusiasts. It’s also close to ICON Park, offering shopping and dining options the whole family will enjoy, making it a great combination of relaxation and convenience.
Distance: 15-20 minutes from Disney.
FAQ: Is Windermere a good option for longer stays?
Yes! Windermere is perfect for long-term stays in Orlando thanks to its residential feel, lake access, and stunning scenery.
The neighborhood’s serene vibe, combined with local amenities like cozy cafes and boutique shops, creates a comfortable environment for longer stays. Whether you're visiting for business, leisure, or a temporary relocation, Windermere’s combination of luxury and convenience makes it a great choice for those looking for a more relaxed, home-like atmosphere during their time in Orlando.
Local Tip: Windermere offers scenic lakeside trails, perfect for morning jogs or peaceful picnics in nature.
Best For: Travelers seeking a luxurious, peaceful suburban retreat near the attractions.
Insider Tip: Windermere has fantastic local coffee shops and brunch spots like Dixie Cream Café for a cozy morning out.
8 | College Park | College Park offers a vintage feel with its eclectic shops, making it a unique and peaceful neighborhood for a stay in Orlando.
This charming area is close to cultural gems like Orlando Science Center, Rollins Museum of Art, Harry P. Leu Gardens, and the Mead Botanical Gardens.
Overlooking Lake Ivanhoe, College Park provides stunning views of the city skyline and easy access to water sports.
For golf lovers, the Dubsdread Golf Course, built in the 1920s, is a must-visit. Today, it’s a top golf destination, offering beautiful courses and a great restaurant to relax after a round.
Distance: 10 minutes from Downtown Orlando.
FAQ: How far is College Park from Universal and Disney?
College Park is conveniently located, just 7.8 miles from Universal Studios and 16.2 miles from Disney.
Local Tip: Edgewater Drive is filled with quirky boutiques, cozy cafes, and local eateries, perfect for exploring the neighborhood’s vibrant culture.
Best For: Visitors looking for a retro, local vibe with easy access to Downtown Orlando and theme parks.
Insider Tip: Be sure to visit the vintage bookstores and record shops around College Park for some hidden gems.
9 | Audubon Park | For the artsy, outdoorsy type, Audubon Park is your Orlando dream getaway.
Known for its laid-back, eco-friendly atmosphere, this neighborhood is perfect for anyone looking to unwind in a sustainable environment while enjoying creative local shops and unique cultural experiences.
Be sure to visit Corrine Drive, a sleek and stylish street famous for its bookshops, record stores, and one-of-a-kind boutiques. It’s the perfect spot to spend a few hours browsing and soaking up the artistic vibe.
Another must-visit is the East End Market, a hub for fresh, artisan goods like organic juices, artisan cheeses, baked treats, and more. It’s ideal for stocking up your vacation rental fridge with delicious, local products.
Distance: 15 minutes from Downtown Orlando.
FAQ: Are there eco-friendly accommodations in Audubon Park?
Yes! Look for lodgings with certification from the Audubon International Green Lodging Program, ensuring your stay aligns with sustainable practices.
Dining Tip: Don’t miss the East End Market for a taste of local, organic food and artisan goods that support the eco-conscious community.
Best For: Eco-conscious travelers seeking a sustainable, relaxed neighborhood.
Insider Tip: Visit the Harry P. Leu Gardens for stunning floral displays. It's free on select days and offers a peaceful escape into nature.
10 | MetroWest | MetroWest is a culturally diverse neighborhood that offers affordable accommodations near Disney and Universal Orlando. This area provides an excellent option for travelers who want easy access to theme parks without breaking the bank.
The 1,805-acre community is best known for stunning Lake Pamala and the award-winning MetroWest Golf Club, which offers great recreational opportunities. For those who love fishing or boating, the nearby Turkey Lake is the perfect spot to spend a day on the water.
Families will love the open space, nice restaurants, and peaceful, residential atmosphere that MetroWest offers. It’s a great choice for those seeking a quieter, budget-friendly alternative to staying directly near the theme parks.
Distance: 15-20 minutes from Disney and Universal.
FAQ: Is MetroWest safe for tourists?
Generally speaking, MetroWest is a safe area for tourists, but as with any neighborhood, you should exercise caution and practice personal safety, especially when out at night.
Local Tip: MetroWest is close to scenic Turkey Lake Park, offering a budget-friendly outdoor experience that’s perfect for picnics, hiking, or simply enjoying nature.
Best For: Budget-conscious travelers looking for a convenient, affordable stay near Orlando’s top attractions.
Insider Tip: Turkey Lake Park offers affordable fishing, picnic areas, and playgrounds—perfect for families or anyone looking for a relaxing day outdoors.
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Ready to Explore More of Orlando?
Whether you want something family-friendly, best for adults, or a nature-lover’s paradise, you can find it in Orlando. Before you book your stay, be sure to do some research to find the best Orlando neighborhood that aligns with your vacation style and travel budget.
Whether you’re looking for affordable family-friendly options, upscale resorts with luxury amenities, or peaceful surroundings that let you unwind after a busy day at the parks, Orlando has something that will cater to your needs. No matter where you stay, Orlando’s unique neighborhoods promise a memorable, enjoyable experience for every type of traveler.
When you’re planning your next trip to Orlando, make sure to consider not just iconic spots but hidden gems as well. To start planning your Central Florida getaway, visit the Westgate Resorts Travel Blog.
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* Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.
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