I recently had a conversation with a friend of mine who believed after the sun went down, Orlando literally fell asleep. She is planning to go in December and wished there was more to do in the evenings after taking a break from the theme parks.  I told her she was in luck!  I was going to become her personal entertainment expert and plan her nightlife activities.    The next two blogs will give you a good look into the city.

Orlando has a HOT and thriving nightlife, mainly because of the local DJ and music scenes that have emerged during the past two decades.  Visitors, like you or me, can hang out in cool lounges that play the latest underground sounds; drink a pint at a laid-back pub; check out live concerts featuring international acts; or dance until the early morning at one of Orlando's mega clubs. 

Much of the action is centered along Orange Avenue, but dozens of hot spots are also clustered along its intersections with Church, Magnolia and Pine streets and Central Boulevard. 

Club Firestone is considered downtown's epicenter with world-known DJs spinning house and techno. Club Icon and Tabu also provide that "big city" dance experience.

For those who still want to dance, but are seeking other options, there's Independent Bar, which features '80s alternative, '90s indie and post-modern sounds. 

Downtown also features numerous bars and lounges that have live bands for a more intimate setting.  The Social and The BackBooth showcases national indie acts and local bands that are on the verge of becoming household names.  Sky60, a rooftop bar, offers great views of Orlando's skyline while listening to down-tempo beats.

Another great option is The Bosendorfer Lounge. It's located in one of my favorite spots, the artsy Grand Bohemian Hotel. It's an elegant setting to sip martinis or a glass of champagne. Room 3 Nine is the place to "see and be seen" when looking for a hip, casual and relaxed lounge-style atmosphere.

As you can see there is an abundance of nightclubs and bars. Orlando and its downtown area come alive at night with the sights and sounds of a young, vibrant metropolis.  My next blog will cover the more options waiting to be discovered!

Have fun, and dance the night away for me in Orlando!     Ciao!