Usually, in Orlando, rain isn’t an issue (in any months not between May and September). But when it is, it would seem to the untrained tourist, that there would be nothing to do. Well, considering everything Orlando is known for (theme parks, Orange groves, theme parks) is outdoors. Wrong! If (read: when) there is a rainy day in the city beautiful, or even if it happened to rain all weekend, grab an umbrella and enjoy what Orlando has to offer indoors.
Start your wet day off with an amazing banana French toast (and ask for a side of peanut butter – just do it!) at Spice either in Winter Park or over looking Lake Eola. This is a must-come-back-when-not-raining spot as well. If you’re feeling frisky, pair that French toast up with a mimosa to make you feel at home. Think that’s the only place to go for a delish breakfast? Think again. Located right by one of the options for a retreat from the rain, is KeKe’s Breakfast Café. Their slogan “Fresh, Fast and Made to Order” couldn’t be more honest. Want something off their extensive menu of waffles, fruit, eggs, etc.? Great. Want to straddle the fence of the wild side and order something from the menu of your mind? Go for it. Either way, finish your food because there’s a full day of plans ahead.
Spice Steakhouse — Photo courtesy of Spice Steakhouse
While the image of people running rampant in the streets with Disney ponchos on is conjured up, there are actually a few different rainy-day options that don’t include the trash bag-esque cover up.
For instance, you can take a day by itself to “tour” the Millenia area. Stop into Swedish furniture superstore IKEA at your own risk – you may never leave. The 310,000-square-foot store seems to go on forever. You can play house, actually shop for furniture and décor or grab a Swedish meatball in their restaurant that boasts a different deal daily.
If you do end up making it out of there, head just down the parking lot to the Mall at Millenia to feed your inner Victoria Beckham. Shop major designer labels like Chanel, BCBG, Louis Vuitton or Burberry or take the cost-effective route as well. Spend a little (or a lot) of time playing with gadgets in the Apple store before making your way out.
Mall At Milennia — Photo courtesy of Mall At Milennia
If you’re looking for something a little less mall and a lot more games, take yourself to International Drive where you can stop into WonderWorks – the upside down house filled with a full arcade and laser tag arena, the newly-opened Dave & Buster’s – another full arcade with a bar and restaurant, or take in all the crazy and unusual exhibits at Ripley’s Believe It or Not. Not only are there places to have fun, but I-Drive is known for it’s plethora of restaurants. On this rainy day, however, stop in to Senor Frogs for karaoke and a fun, island vacation-style dining experience to help you forget that you’re really not on a far away island.
Dave And Buster's — Photo courtesy of Dave And Buster's
If you venture away from I-Drive, the Orlando Science Center is where you should take your attention. Their insightful movie engagements and exhibits change on a regular basis, so you never know what you’re going to get in that sense, but you know walking in that you’re going to be amazed by something on one of the four floors.
While the thought “this rainy day couldn’t possibly get any better” has probably already entered your mind, know that it can. Great for free Wednesday night “Pitcher Shows” out on the lawn, The Enzian Theater in Maitland is best known as the place for alternative movies that usually win lots of awards. So get some dinner and drinks and revel in the fact that you stayed dry in Orlando without having to throw on a poncho.
