Orlando has so much more to offer for families than the just experiencing the theme parks, like Disney World. If you’re ready to get away from it all to a place where relaxation, nature, and excitement all live together in harmony, you’re ready for a trip to Lake Eola Park.
This area of Orlando has activities for every member of the family and every personal taste! From events to views and eats, this place has it all. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular attractions at this special place located in the heart of the city.
Swan Boats
Lake Eola Park offers you the opportunity to get out on the water when you rent a swan boat. The best thing about the swan boats is that they are easy to operate. You don’t have to be a boating expert to get around. No visit to Orlando is complete without enjoying this fun daytime activities.
Get out on the water with your family and enjoy the sights of the park from a new perspective, like the beautiful Lake Eola fountain. It’s also a great way to get some exercise and get a closer look at some of the real-life swans!
Enjoy the Walking Trails
Any time of day is a great time to check out the Lake Eola Walking Trail. With nearly a mile of paved walkway, this is a great trail for vacationers looking to take an early jog, lovers going on a romantic walk, or families trying to get in touch with nature.
On your walk, you’ll get different sites of both the city of Orlando and the natural world. Enjoy the wildlife like turtles, wading birds, and of course, swans. You’ll also get to see the beautiful Art Deco fountain from all of its best angles.
Along your walk, you’ll also encounter the beautiful sights of the Historic Eola House, the Chinese Ting Pagoda, a playground for children, and several monuments. The monuments include the Confederate Monument to the City of Orlando and a monument to World War II veterans involved in the Battle of the Bulge. Both of these monuments are great teaching moments for both parents and children.
Feed the Swans
Do you like to have a more personal encounter with wildlife? Feeding the swans is absolutely legal and even a popular activity.
The lake is home to five species of (live) swans: trumpeter swans, black-neck swans, whooper swans, royal mute swans, and Australian black swans. If you plan on feeding them, skip the bread and popcorn, and get special bird feed instead. Don’t worry! It’s easily acquired. Simply stop in one of the animal food shops around the lake before you head down for feeding time.
Walt Disney Amphitheater
The Walt Disney Amphitheater offers all kinds of entertainment is a large, outdoor seating venue. Stop by for concerts, movies, and even some plays put on by the Orlando Shakespeare Company.
Many of these arts events are free and open to the public. For tickets to Orlando Shakespeare Company shows, check out their 2021-2022 season.
Other Entertainment and Events at Lake Eola
Lake Eola is always bustling with activity. No matter what day of the year you go, you’ll likely be able to find some entertainment or activity. Here are some of the popular events and venues at Lake Eola Park.
Nightly Light Show on the Lake
Even if nothing is going on at the amphitheater on the day of your visit, you’re still guaranteed to get a spectacular show. Every night between 8 pm and 9 pm, the Lincoln E. Allen fountain in the middle of the lake lights up for a spectacular light show accompanied by beautiful smooth jazz music. Parents and kids alike will love and be amazed by it. So make sure your kids stay up long enough and don’t miss it!
Orlando Farmer’s Market
Every Sunday, Lake Eola is home to a fabulous Farmer’s Market. You’ll find the freshest produce and meats sold by their own farmers. You’ll make a good ecological and economic choice by doing your grocery shopping at this famous farmer’s market.
Even if fresh groceries aren’t your thing, there’s plenty else that the farmer’s market has to offer. Local vendors sell all their artisan goods from arts and crafts, jewelry, clothing, prepared foods and drinks, and more!
4th of July
If you happen to be at Eola Lake for the Fourth of July, you’re in luck as you’ll get some of the best Americana entertainment Florida has to offer. The Lake has a huge 4th of July celebration that includes performances, refreshments, and even a firework show!
Refreshments, Views, and Accommodations
With all this activity, you’re bound to get a little hungry. Lucky for you, Lake Eola Park is home to some of the most fabulous restaurants in Orlando. Every palette is sure to be pleased with options like beer gardens, Italian fare, all-American cuisine, bistros, cafes, Indian food, and more.
Some of the best restaurants even have lakeside views and seating. If any of those don’t suit your fancy, but you still want to be able to look out on the water while you eat, why not order some delicious takeout? Choose a restaurant, grab your food, and then walk it to one of the picturesquely situated picnic tables for a DIY al fresco meal.
Of course, you’ll also need a place to rest your head at the end of one day before your next adventure at Lake Eola Park. Why not find a family-friendly vacation rental in Orlando close to all your favorite activities and large enough for the whole family to stay in comfortably?
Your Vacation to Lake Eola Park
You can’t beat the beautiful views, architecture, and wildlife of Lake Eola Park. Downtown Orlando can leave you loving swans, singing songs, and with a full tummy after a delicious meal. Come find out why this is the best vacation spot for families today!
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