It’s time for your photo-op at some of Orlando’s most photogenic locations.
Trying to get that perfect Instagram photo? We’ve all been there. Luckily, Orlando is bursting with countless opportunities to achieve exactly that. From lush, natural backdrops to inquisitive, artsy ones, Orlando has a knack for them all. Here are a few local favorites that are sure to impress family, friends and followers alike the next time you come to town. And don’t forget to follow us at @VisitOrlando while you’re at it!
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Mills 50® District
Calling all artists and art enthusiasts! Mills 50® District, adjacent to downtown, has the most murals of any neighborhood in Orlando. Every street you cross, every corner you turn, nearly every step you take — you will see a work of art. Some people let the art speak for itself, while others get in on the fun and pose near it. Whichever route you choose, we are certain that your photos will be their very own works of art.
Discover: Things to Do in Mills 50
There is no cost of admission to the Mills 50 District. While this can be a walkable excursion, some people do choose to drive from mural to mural. We suggest visiting during the day to best capture the artwork. We also recommend arriving hungry, as Mills 50 boasts exceptional dining and nightlife that includes Orlando’s highest concentration of MICHELIN Guide restaurants. Various parking options are available, both free and paid.
Loch Haven Cultural Park
Minutes from downtown Orlando is Loch Haven Cultural Park, a 45-acre, tree-shaded playground of the arts that’s packed with educational museums, performance centers and enriching entertainment. It’s one of the best photography backdrops around.
Discover: Guide to Loch Haven Cultural Park
Loch Haven Cultural Park is home to the Orlando Museum of Art, Orlando Science Center, Orlando Ballet, Orlando Family Stage and so many more photo-worthy institutions that provide unique ways for you to explore the rich art and history that Orlando has to offer.
Park Avenue District
Located about 25 minutes north of our main tourism districts is Park Avenue District, the heart and soul of the city of Winter Park. This vibrant commercial corridor sits in the middle of an elegant neighborhood, making it one of the most alluring and photogenic stops around Orlando. Stroll cobblestone streets surrounded by scenic views, acclaimed dining and endless shopping — every corner a perfect photo opportunity.
Discover: Things to Do in Winter Park
Keep an eye out for the picture-perfect setting in Winter Park’s Hidden Garden, a tucked-away addition to the avenue that’s nestled between Boca Winter Park and Writer’s Block Bookstore. In this magical corridor, you can find your next favorite selfie spot as well as one-of-a-kind local gems like The Ancient Olive Gourmet.
Hannibal Square
Historic Hannibal Square is often the go-to photo stop for Orlando locals and is also located in Winter Park. Think Italian-inspired architecture with a dash of nature. If you want your Instagram feed to feel warm, inviting, charmed — Hannibal Square may just be the place for you and your camera.
There is no cost of admission to Hannibal Square or the Hannibal Square Heritage Center, where you can learn about the area’s importance to Black American history. We suggest visiting during the week, early morning, for the highest likelihood of capturing photos without any unwanted action in the background. Various parking lots and garages are scattered around the area (both free and paid), as well as on-street parking. Winter Park also has some of Central Florida’s best shopping and dining, including several MICHELIN Guide and James Beard Award honorees.
Lake Eola Park
Majestic trees. Calm waters. The downtown Orlando skyline surrounding you. This is what a photo session at Lake Eola Park guarantees. We simply could not go without including this staple on our list. Whether it be at night (hello city lights!) or during the day (hello sunny skies!), your camera will have no option but to capture the magic. If you’re extra lucky, the resident swans might just photo-bomb and take your already amazing photos to the next level.
Discover: Things to Do in City District
There is no cost of admission to Lake Eola Park; it is open every day of the week from 6 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. Various parking lots and garages are scattered around the area (both free and paid), as well as on-street parking. Stop by any of downtown’s excellent eateries for a bite to eat, and add the Orange County Regional History Center and Wells’Built Museum of African American History and Culture to the itinerary for a full day of local color.
Lake Nona Sculpture Garden
The innovative community of Lake Nona, located less than 15 minutes from Orlando International Airport (MCO), is recognized for its futuristic take on modern society. From driverless vehicles to the high-tech Lake Nona Wave Hotel, people from all over flock to bear witness. The Lake Nona Sculpture Garden is revolutionary in its own right, and it absolutely translates to the camera. 50,000 square feet of world-renowned sculptures surrounded by Florida’s iconic flora and fauna — now that is definitely feed-worthy.
Discover: Things to Do in Lake Nona
There is no cost of admission to the Lake Nona Sculpture Garden. We suggest visiting during the day to fully capture the art, but plenty of ambient lighting is provided in the evening as well. You will also find a free parking garage nearby, along with Boxi Park and a ton of great restaurants that include MICHELIN Recommended BACÁN and Nami.
Plant Street
Situated just 20 minutes west of Orlando, Winter Garden’s Plant Street has a rich history. Its neat architecture and “small town” vibe are photography gold. While there are countless picture-perfect spots all around Plant Street, a fan-favorite is Winter Garden’s iconic Clock Tower. Lined by beautiful trees and thriving plants, this Clock Tower is only missing one crucial thing: you!
Discover: Things to Do in Winter Garden
There is no cost of admission to Plant Street. We suggest going during the week, early morning. Various parking lots and a free parking garage can be found nearby. You can also grab bites and brews at Plant St. Market, home to Crooked Can Brewing Co., among other bespoke eateries in the area.
The Orlando Eye by Merlin Entertainments at ICON Park®
Deemed the “brightest beacon in the Orlando sky,” The Orlando Eye at ICON Park® remains a sight for sore eyes. Visitors and Orlando natives alike gravitate to this 400-foot-tall unicorn, part of the International Drive Entertainment District (aka I-Drive). From its 64,000 color-changing LEDs to its prolific views, trust us when we say: This is so not your average observation wheel. Many people choose to stand in front of The Orlando Eye from ground-level and get a cool upwards shot, while others choose to take their photos while riding The Orlando Eye. Both options are sure to bring a pop of life to any Instagram.
Discover: Things to Do at ICON Park
While there is no cost to enter ICON Park, there is a ticket fee to ride The Orlando Eye. Tickets may be purchased in person or on their website. We suggest going as early as possible, as ICON Park does get busier in the evening time. Free self-service and paid valet parking options are available on site, along with ample dining and nightlife choices and other can’t-miss attractions.
Rollins College Campus
Rollins College in Winter Park is known as one of America’s most beautiful college campuses, making it an ideal environment for your next best shot. The 70-acre campus showcases stunning Spanish-Mediterranean architecture that gorgeously blends the school’s historic buildings with its surrounding greenery, such as tree-lined brick roads and captivating views of Lake Virginia.
You can walk through the campus free of charge. It’s also complimentary to enter the Rollins Museum of Art and see their rotating exhibitions or their impressive permanent collection of over 6,000 historical objects. On your way out, you can grab a great photo around their statue garden or in the sunlit gazebo that’s waterside to the lake.
Discover: Orlando Guide to Museums & Galleries
Orlando Gardens
The outdoors have some of the best settings in store, complete with natural sunlight and bright vibes that you can almost feel through the phone screen. That’s why the idyllic gardens of Orlando make up some of the top spots for your next photo shoot.
Discover: Guide to Orlando Gardens
Near downtown, Harry P. Leu Gardens holds Florida’s largest formal rose garden and a tropical rainforest for you to get lost in. Winter Park also has a couple of gardens on display. Mead Botanical Garden boasts two butterfly gardens, scenic walking trails and a greenhouse that looks great in the background of your photos, while the waterfront Kraft Azalea Garden shows off a free-standing exedra and one of the largest surviving banyan trees in the state. And these are just a handful of the lush landscapes where you can capture memories around Orlando.
Celebration
Located about 25 minutes from Orlando and minutes from Walt Disney World® Resort, the community of Celebration is a postcard-worthy town with brick-lined streets, pastel buildings and a lakeshore breeze. This place is a colorful canvas for the camera.
For those looking to extend their stay here, check out some of the sophisticated resorts that Celebration has to offer including the four-star full-service hotel Meliá Orlando Celebration or The Inn at Celebration, which rests alongside shimmering Lake Rianhard.
Southern Hill Farms
True to its name, Southern Hill Farms is surrounded by sweeping hills. Get a taste of farm life for the day and be sure to document the whole thing while you’re at it. Located in Clermont, close to Walt Disney World® Resort, Southern Hill Farms is sure to meet all your aesthetic needs. From the endless rows of sunflowers (when in season) to the 120 acres of farmland, there is a unique photo-op for everyone. The cherry on top? They also have various curated photo backdrops scattered throughout the property.
The family-owned and operated u-pick farm requires you to purchase tickets (available on their website) to enter the premises during special events, but is otherwise free to explore. Their busiest times are the weekends; they are closed Mondays and Tuesdays. We suggest going during the week and arriving at their opening time. Free parking is available on site.
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