From solving mysteries downtown to sipping cocktails in a hidden speakeasy, Orlando North is packed with creative ways to connect. Whether you’re planning a Valentine’s date or simply looking for fresh ideas close to home, these handpicked spots offer everything from adventurous outings to cozy dinners.
Activities
Experience the ‘Real Florida’ with a Private Horseback Tour by Hidden Palms Ranch
Sanford, FL
Ride side-by-side through hammocks of ancient live oaks and the palm tree-lined floodplains of Lake Jesup. Get a taste of the “real Florida” on horseback with Hidden Palms Ranch private tours, sure to be an unforgettable outing with your special someone. Depending on the time of year – you may also catch glimpses of fields of stunning native sunflowers – a true picture-perfect opportunity!
Solve a Downtown Mystery Together with Amazing Adventure Hunts
Sanford, FL
Think all escape rooms are indoors? Not so fast. This escape game-scavenger hunt hybrid event by Amazing Adventure Hunts takes place outdoors on the streets of Downtown Sanford and is unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. As you wind through brick-lined streets and historic corners, follow cryptic clues while racing against the clock as a couple, double date, or family of up to five! To up the ante, consider their Clues & Brews hunt on select weekend days, where you’ll pass by some of Sanford’s many famous breweries and bars along the way!
Jump, Climb, and Compete at Activate
Altamonte Springs, FL
Interact with cutting-edge technology while jumping, climbing, and laughing your way through the world’s first active gaming facility, located in our very own Altamonte Mall. Choose between one of Activate’s ten immersive games, from a floor-is-lava style adventure called “Grid”, a competitive game of “Hoops”, or an extreme round of “Hide”-and-go-seek. Can’t choose between rooms? Enjoy unlimited access to all games with their “all-you-can-play” pass.
Turn Date Night Tactical at Decision Tactical
Sanford, FL
Pair a fun night out with practical skills training at Decision Tactical, Central Florida’s only indoor “tactical theme park”, where couples can practice safe firearm usage on thrilling real-world mission simulations in a safe, high-tech environment. This Valentine’s Day, Decision Tactical is offering a “Mr & Mrs. Smith” package where a couple can share an appetizer, two drinks, a shared shooting experience, and individual shooting range simulator challenges for just $100! Rest assured: 360° shooting range uses no real ammo, making this experience safe for all ages and comfort levels.
Find Your Flow Together at Magnolia Yoga in Longwood
Longwood, FL
Unwind together on the mat at one of Orlando North’s newest yoga studios, Magnolia Yoga & Wellness Center. Using a trauma-informed methodology, ease in with Hatha, Restore, Yin, Flow, or even prenatal yoga classes available throughout the week. Follow your yoga class with a delicious plant-based croissant or smoothie at vegan French café, Goodway Cafe, located just next door.
The Arts
Stargaze Side-by-Side at Our Planetarium
Sanford, FL
The painter, Vincent van Gogh once famously said: “For my part I know nothing with any certainty, but the sight of the stars makes me dream.” Dream with your better half at The Emil Buehler Perpetual Trust Planetarium at Seminole State College of Florida, which offers live, interactive shows and full-dome video presentations that are unlike any planetarium show you’ll ever experience. For just $6 an adult, experience traditional star displays, cultural shows that detail the importance of astronomy around the world, and feature presentations that whisk you through the depths of outer space!
Experience Live Theater Together at Theater West End
Sanford, FL
Did you know that Downtown Sanford is home to an award-winning live theater? From familiar favorites such as Cabaret, Jesus Christ Superstar, and SpongeBob the Musical to original performances from the community, Theater West End will captivate you and your loved one at one of their intimate shows. With just around 100 seats per show, advance tickets are highly recommended.
Food
Get Cozy Over Fondue at Colorado Fondue Company
Casselberry, FL
Nothing says cozy like bubbling pots of melted cheese fondue! Take your plus-one to a comforting night out at Casselberry establishment Colorado Fondue Company, which has been serving Central Florida since the early 90s. This is not your standard fondue experience, with unique dishes including Sriracha Bacon Cheddar cheese fondue, garlic-roasted and coconut-marinated Fusion Shrimp, and seasonal chocolate fondues, including Campfire Toasted S’more, featuring chipotle sea salt. Colorado Fondue Company runs new specials each month, so be sure to check their website ahead of time for their latest deals!
Play Food Truck Roulette at Sanford’s Food Truck Fiesta!
Sanford, FL
Let’s play a game: first, make plans to visit the Sanford Food Truck Fiesta, Central Florida’s Most Culturally Diverse Food Event. Then, narrow down a list of iconic food trucks to four you have to try with your loved one. (This may be extremely difficult since there are usually 40+ vendors!) Finally, close your eyes and randomly assign one to an appetizer, entree, drink, and dessert course. Just like that, you have yourself an unforgettable Food Truck Roulette date, sure to leave you satisfied!
Cruise the St. John’s River Aboard the Barbara Lee in Sanford
Sanford, FL
Journey along the St John’s River in an award-winning historic steamboat with live entertainment and delicious food. Enjoy river breezes and live entertainment upon one of The Barbara Lee’s unique voyages: from standard lunch cruises to Italian Buffets to Pirate-themed comedy nights, and even a special Valentine’s Day sail with a charming themed atmosphere. See if you can spot any alligators, manatees, native birds, or other wildlife from atop one of the Barbara Lee’s many decks.
Polka Your Way Through Dinner at Hollerbach’s German Restaurant
Sanford, FL
Those who know, know: Tiki taki tiki taki hoi hoi hoi! There’s a clear reason large groups from hours away hop aboard packed tour buses just for a meal at our beloved Hollerbach’s German Restaurant in Sanford – and it’s not just the amazing live polka music. A dinner at Hollerbach’s is truly the full gamut: amazing authentic German food (including sausages, schnitzels, and potato pancakes), a wide variety of German-style draft beers, stellar fresh desserts from their in-house bakery, and interactions with talented performers singing German tunes into the night. If you’ve never taken your favorite foodie to Hollerbach’s before – this is your sign!
Sip, Slurp, and Share Dumplings At Zen Dumplings
Altamonte Springs, FL
Warm soup or bingeworthy dumplings? Why choose when you can indulge in Zen Dumplings’ famous soup dumplings (Xiao Long Bao) in Altamonte Springs. Choose from truffle pork, crab, chicken, beef, or a combination platter if you can’t decide. Impress your Valentine with the proper technique: dip, take a small bite to release the steam, then enjoy. Not in the mood for dumplings? Dan Dan Noodles, Fried Rice, and Scallion Pancakes round out the menu.
Enter S’mores Heaven at Wondermade
Sanford, FL
Based right here in Sanford, FL, Wondermade has quietly become one of the country’s most celebrated marshmallow makers. Along the way, they’ve earned “favorite” status from Oprah (yes, that Oprah), Disney, and boutique shops nationwide. Although their 65 flavors are all available to order online, it’s only at their Downtown Sanford store + ice cream bar that you can indulge in the magic of fresh-torched marshmallows-on-a-stick, s’mores, and the most delicious hot cocoa you’ll ever taste. More “experience” than just a dessert shop – you’ll want to be sure to add this to your must-go list!
Dine Behind Bars at The Old Jailhouse
Sanford, FL
After serving as everything from a wagon shop to the county jail – The Old Jailhouse is now a romantic scratch-made fine dining establishment featuring an extensive “libations” menu and Southern-inspired favorites including: Cured Pork Belly with Bourbon Castrique, Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Orange Honey Glaze, and Buttermilk Fried Chicken with Gouda Mac n’ Cheese. This is an absolute must-visit to impress your date!
Plan an Iconic Valentine’s Brunch at Boca
Lake Mary, FL
Looking for a brunch that feels special? At Lake Mary’s latest obsession, Boca, you can feast on Lobster Wontons and Cheesy Corn Fritters as starters, before moving on to their iconic Yellowfin Tuna Poke Bowl featuring chopped sushi-grade #1 ahi tuna. The main event includes showstoppers like their iconic BBQ Pulled Pork Benedict and Lemon Ricotta Pancakes. You can’t go wrong when you pair with any of their thirst-quenching brunch cocktails, including their classic Boca Bloody Mary or Bottomless Mimosas.
Drink
Line Dance Under the Lights at The Barn
Sanford, FL
Grab your boots! We’re going line dancing! Plan a night out at Sanford’s iconic 16,000 sq ft country music venue, nightclub, and bar, The Barn, which has been in business for over 40 years! Line dancing classes are available every Wed, Thur, Fri & Sat from 7 pm to 9 pm for line dancers of all skill levels! Step out onto their huge floor and dance to the latest and hottest country music side by side.
Pedal, Sip, and Sightsee with Limo Cycle
Sanford, FL
Get geared up and ride Central Florida’s original “pedaled party” and sightseeing bike! The Limo Cycle is a fun and relaxing way to experience Sanford’s adorable downtown while exercising next to someone you love. Limo Cycle offers public and private tours and Beer Crawls that zero in on Sanford’s famous breweries almost every night of the month, multiple times throughout the day. Perfect for unique sightseeing with someone special!
Escape to a Hidden Tiki Speakeasy at Suffering Bastard
Sanford, FL
When you walk into Tuffy’s Bottle Shop, tropical tiki-escape is probably the last thing you’d expect to find. But alas – if you know where to go, and if you have a coveted reservation slot, you too can experience this highly acclaimed hidden Speakeasy for yourself! Suffering Bastard is famous for its impressive decor and massive cocktail menu, with tiki icons indicating its drinks’ strength (fair warning: you’re capped at two “Zombies”). They also serve “communal drinks” meant to be shared with a pair of couples because they are so strong, and non-alcoholic mocktails for those who want to enjoy the tropical “vibes” without the booze.
Visit DoOrlandoNorth.com or @DoOrlandoNorth on Social Media for more date night ideas!
