Dance the night away with high-energy LGBTQ+ nightclubs, performing arts and late-night eateries in the downtown Orlando area (‘Heart’ mural by Kim Murphy in the Mills 50® district pictured).
Colorful, inclusive and welcoming to all, Orlando invites you to rejoice and love yourself with LGBTQ+ friendly nightspots in downtown Orlando and beyond. Options range from laid-back urban wineries and patisseries to dazzling nightclubs with some of the city’s best drag shows and burlesque performances for a choose-your-own-adventure story you won’t soon forget.
Additional reporting by Lily Denneen.
Discover: LGBTQ+ Orlando Travel Guide
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Nightclubs, Bars & Performing Arts
Southern Nights
Voted Orlando Weekly’s Best Gay Bar for five years and counting, and the largest of its kind in Orlando, Southern Nights is a vibrant nightclub in the trendy Milk District. They offer incredible themed nights and multiple drag performances throughout the week, along with tantalizing burlesque acts every Saturday, part of their weekly Girl the Party celebration. If you prefer something a little more laid-back, head next door to sister venue Southern Craft for colorful concoctions and live music between sets.
SAVOY Orlando
Part of the Ivanhoe Village Main Street district, SAVOY Orlando is a never-ending party complete with go go dancers, drag shows, billiards, dancing and electrifying themed events. Best of all, there’s no cover charge, so you can make this the main attraction or one of several stops on an unforgettable night out in Orlando.
Discover: Things to Do in the Ivanhoe Village Main Street District
Renaissance Theatre Company
Also in the Ivanhoe Village Main Street district, Renaissance Theatre Company is celebrated for its original, inclusive theater productions, themed cabarets, and weekly Off The Record drag performances. It’s part of Loch Haven Park, a compact cultural corridor with several museums, theaters and the home of the Orlando Ballet, if you’re looking for even more ways to enjoy a night out in Orlando.
The Dust
Steps from beautiful Lake Eola Park in the Thornton Park district, The Dust — formerly known as Stardust Lounge — is home to Orlando’s longest running burlesque show. The below-ground bar has a somewhat gritty, nostalgic appeal, with ‘80s, ‘90s and 2000s jams every weekend and burlesque performances on the first Thursday and third Wednesday of each month. When you’re ready for a change of scenery, head upstairs to sister venue Aku Aku Tiki Bar to sip on ferociously fun tropical libations.
Discover: Things to Do in Thornton Park District
Late Night Restaurants
Grab a bite at LGBTQ+ owned or allied restaurants in the downtown Orlando area, all of which are open well after the sun goes down. For even more fantastic daytime options, like Se7en Bites and Island Time, check out our guide to some of Orlando’s LGBTQ+ owned restaurants.
Discover: Eat & Drink in Orlando
Bites & Bubbles
One of Orlando’s many LGBTQ+ owned restaurants, Bites & Bubbles is a contemporary American restaurant with European flair, featuring a broad international cheese selection, an extensive wine list and a full bar. Enjoy some tapas and sparkling wine al fresco, or head inside for inspired bites in a romantic setting in Orlando’s Mills 50® district.
Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’
If you happen to be near Walt Disney World® Resort, don’t miss Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ at Disney Springs®. Owned by celebrity chef and two-time James Beard Foundation award winner Art Smith, this southern-style kitchen serves up elevated comfort fare inspired by Florida’s rich agricultural heritage. Think Southern charcuterie, buttermilk-brined fried chicken and fresh local catch paired with citrus-infused cocktails and multiple varieties of moonshine on tap.
Discover: Top Things to Do at DISNEY SPRINGS
The Glass Knife
Renowned for their picture-perfect pastries, sweet and savory brunch picks, and showstopping cakes, The Glass Knife in Winter Park is one of my favorite post-dinner stops for coffee, cocktails and a little something special to go. They’re open until 11 p.m. most days, and you can preorder online if you have your eye on a specific pastry — they’re likely to sell out if you save the best for last!
Discover: Things to Do in Winter Park
The Hammered Lamb
This lively LGBTQ+ owned pub in the Ivanhoe Village Main Street District is open late every day, serving craft beer, cocktails and hearty handhelds until 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. The self-declared safe space hosts a monthly Hammered Brunch with drag performances and live music, along with nightly drink specials, karaoke, trivia and more special events throughout the year.
Quantum Leap Winery
Just around the corner in College Park, Quantum Leap is a sustainable winery and cidery that offers tastings by the glass or in various themed wine flights. They do close relatively early, but their lively events, delicious wines and welcoming environment make this a fantastic first stop on your next night out in Orlando.
Garp & Fuss
Nestled in a romantic enclave of Park Avenue in in Winter Park, Garp & Fuss serves creative American fare and craft cocktails with a little Chicago flair. We especially love the atrium for date night — the rustic brick walls, glass ceiling and romantic ambiance lend an extra cozy effect for a little mid-supper stargazing.
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