Tipping Points: Bars Abound in Orlando North Seminole County
From cultured craft cocktail lounges to Irish pubs to lazy lakefront hangouts, the destination has it all
ORLANDO NORTH SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. (July 8, 2019) — Most of us, when traveling, like to set aside time to belly up to the bar. And Orlando North Seminole County certainly has no shortage of welcoming places that attract tourists and locals alike. Here’s a (short) curated list of recommended bars in our destination — most of which serve food.
Note: We’ve not included the many craft breweries that have popped up in Seminole County in the last few years. And we have stayed away from smokey dives.
Bitters & Brass — This cocktail lounge is owned and operated by bartenders from Central Florida. Homey but elegantly appointed, this classy drinking establishment offers classes on how to make classic cocktails. Classy. 410 Sanford Avenue, Sanford.
Cheers Lake Mary — So Cheers, the TV show, ended in 1993, and Cheers Lake Mary opened in 1996. So what. If memory serves, the bar here bears a notable resemblance to the one that Sam and Woody tended. Hearty pub far is served. Cheers also features karaoke, trivia and bingo. There’s also a Cheers in Altamonte Springs. 3005 Lake Mary Blvd., Lake Mary.
Connolly’s Tavern — More than one Yelp reviewer likened Connolly’s to a traditional Irish pub. Besides the cozy interior, the bar features a spacious outdoor courtyard. Get your fill of Guinness and other suds. Live music on weekends. 323 N. Ronald Reagan Blvd., Longwood.
Hollerbach’s Willow Tree Cafe — Experience a dose of authentic Deutschland (except for the weather) in this combination beer hall, restaurant and gathering spot. In addition to serving a vast selection of imported German beers, wines and schnapps, Willow Tree also features traditional German entertainment and a gourmet German deli. Around the corner is a shop to purchase your lederhosen. Roll out the barrels! 205 E. First St., Sanford.
The Imperial — A neighborhood-style bar in downtown Sanford, The Imperial specializes in boutique wines, craft beers and classic cocktails. The bar shares time with Washburn Imports, a quirky furniture store during the day. The Imperial is open Tuesday to Saturday, 5 p.m.-midnight. 116 E. 1st Street, Sanford.
Lazy Gator Bar — Part of the Black Hammock airboat ride complex on the shores of Lake Jesup, the Lazy Gator is a genuine taste of Old Florida. Sit inside or out on the expansive deck. Beer, wine and specialty drinks — and make sure to order gator bites. 2316 Black Hammock Fish Camp Road, Oviedo.
Marlow’s Tavern — This is as much a choice eatery as a good-time saloon, but either way it’s a terrific place to spend some of your valuable leisure hours. 352 Mike Roberto Way, Oviedo
Sanford Ave Tavern — Although only open three years, this place, located right on downtown Sanford’s main drag, already feels like an institution. At the very least, it’s a friendly and relaxed hang. You’ll be greeted by garage-style doors that open up all the to let the air in. 412 Sanford Ave., Sanford.
About Orlando North, Seminole County:
Teeming with old Florida charm and young Florida vibrancy, Orlando North, Seminole County offers visitors nature-based attractions, eclectic dining, a booming micro brew scene, plus a year round calendar of festivals and events. With over 2,000 waterways, you’ll discover a wide array of thrilling outdoor activities from paddling in clear freshwater springs and rivers to airboating among alligators, or zooming through an aerial zip line course. It also features an array of sports and training facilities for amateur tournament play, including the 102-acre Boombah Sports Complex at Seminole County. And getting here is easy via Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), Orlando International Airport (MCO), aboard the Amtrak Auto Train, or via auto on I-95 and I-4; and you’ll save 30% on accommodations over Orlando and beachfront hotels. All this and it’s less than an hour’s drive to area theme parks and beaches too. 1-800-800-7832 or 407-665-2900 or visit: www.DoOrlandoNorth.com