Orlando's Nightlife and Activities
Like every thing else in the area, Orlando's entertainment is big on style, thrills and commercial drive. And although all you may want to do after a long day in lines and on roller coasters is curl up in bed, you really shouldn't miss some of the spectacular purpose-built entertainment complexes, excellent clubs and themed dinner shows on offer.
Disney's Pleasure Island is a giant entertainment complex aimed at dazzling you and your family even further with plenty of scripted action and every type of music imaginable. It also aims to relieve you of more hard-earned cash, so look out for all those opportunities to buy photos, souvenirs and yet more food. The bars and clubs here, and along the waterfront Boardwalk Resort, play everything from classic rock to jazz and retro grooves. The star attraction has to be the incredible performances by Cirque du Soleil though. The modern circus troupe performs La Nouba, a breathtaking show of acrobatics, dance and circus tricks that will leave you and the family truly stunned.
Universal's competition, CityWalk, is an eclectic mix of nightclubs, bars and shows with everything from jazz and reggae to a Latin Quarter and faithful recreation of the famous New Orleans bar Pat O'Brien's. Along with the visually stunning landmarks is a 20-screen cinema with curved stadium seating and high-tech sound. There are usually some child-friendly movies on show as well as a selection of the latest releases.
Family fun Orlando entertainment outside the main theme parks
The next best Orlando entertainment complex is Pointe Orlando, packed with restaurants and bars, a giant entertainment center with interactive games and attractions, and two giant nightclubs. The Florida entertainment centers are child-friendly and are generally a big winner with teens. Outside the main centers themed dinner shows are another popular form of entertainment and can be based around anything from murder mystery nights to medieval battles.
For something less artificial and some real Orlando entertainment head to the downtown area where there's a range of excellent clubs to choose from and extended happy hours everywhere. The chain of wine bars and brewpubs on Wall St Plaza often have live music and once a month organize a joint block party.
Alternatively you could take in a professional Florida basketball game to see Orlando Magic play or check out the offerings at the performing arts center, ballet or opera. Whatever you decide to do you certainly won't be stuck for choice.
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