Leu Gardens
Nestled just north of downtown Orlando, Leu Gardens is a 50-acre oasis that feels worlds away yet is just minutes from the city center. These stunning botanical gardens are one of Orlando’s hidden gems, offering natural beauty, walking trails, and rotating exhibits. Wander through vibrant butterfly and rose gardens exploding with color. Pause to take in the tranquil koi pond filled with fish lazily gliding through the water. Marvel at the vast camellia collection, one of the largest in the nation. The gardens seamlessly blend with oak forests and open meadows in a natural Florida habitat. Don’t miss touring the historic Leu House Museum, an elegant 19th century home that gives you a glimpse into Florida’s past. Wander through antique-filled rooms that transport you back in time. Outside, oak trees dripping with Spanish moss frame the home, further adding to the timeless atmosphere. With so much to delight your senses, you’ll soon forget you’re just minutes from the city hustle and bustle. Leu Gardens is one of Orlando’s most scenic hidden gems perfect for garden enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone needing an oasis from the theme park crowds.
Address: 1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
Phone: (407) 246-2620
The Polasek Museum
Tucked away on the shores of Lake Osceola just north of downtown Orlando, lies a small but mighty museum that whisks you away to another world. The Polasek Museum is a hidden gem focused on the work of Czech-American sculptor Albin Polasek. Tour Polasek’s lakeside 1920s winter home filled with his iconic sculptures along with antique furnishings, artwork, and decor from his era. Marvel at the creative simplicity of “Man Carving His Own Destiny,” see the serenity of the Mother and Child pieces, and appreciate the craftsmanship of fluid, moving bronze. Polasek’s neoclassical and art deco sculptures have an otherworldly, dreamlike quality with fluid lines and intimate detailing. Outside, the home’s courtyard, manicured gardens, and boathouse provide an idyllic backdrop. Stroll through the meditative Memorial Garden, taking in views of the lake’s shimmering waters. The tranquil 6-acre property seems frozen in time, providing a peaceful artistic refuge. For art and culture lovers, the Polasek Museum’s rotating exhibits, special events, and sculpture garden tours make it a can’t-miss hidden gem on the Orlando art scene.
Address: 633 Osceola Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
Phone: (407) 647-6294
Hannibal Square Heritage Center
Delve into the rich history and heritage of one of Orlando’s historic neighborhoods at the Hannibal Square Heritage Center in Winter Park. This free museum and cultural center brings to life the vibrant west Winter Park community that was established in the late 1800s. Through exhibits, oral histories, historic photographs, and guided walking tours, you’ll learn how it grew into a thriving African American neighborhood in the early 20th century. Prominent settlers like James Seymour planted citrus groves, drawing others to the area, while Dr. William Wells built his practice treating Black and white patients when segregation limited access to care. Don’t miss the moving short film showcasing Hannibal Square’s close-knit community, businesses, music scene and legacy. The Heritage Center breathes life into the neighborhood’s stories through programming, education, and preservation. It’s an impactful and immersive experience highlighting an important piece of local African American history and culture.
Address: 642 W New England Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
Phone: (407) 539-2680
Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve
For an off-the-beaten path outdoor adventure, head to the Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve just minutes from downtown Orlando. At this hidden natural gem, you’ll feel worlds away amid nearly 250 acres of tranquil woods, wetlands, and prairies. The preserve has over 7 miles of scenic hiking and biking trails that wind through pine flatwoods, cypress domes, oak hammocks, and pine rocklands. Pause to appreciate the Spanish moss swaying from ancient oaks along the upland trail. Keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife like osprey, hawks, gopher tortoises, and Florida scrub lizards. Further on, the boardwalk trail crosses a marshy cypress wetland inhabited by red-bellied turtles and wading birds like egrets and herons. The longer Lake Trail loops around the preserve’s centerpiece – the serene 34-acre Lake Tibet. This ecologically rich habitat makes the preserve one of the area’s top spots for nature lovers and birdwatchers. With miles of woodland trails to explore, the Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve lets you enjoy natural Florida beauty and tranquility just minutes from the city. It’s the perfect eco-centric hidden gem to add to your Orlando itinerary.
Address: 8777 County Rd 535, Orlando, FL 32836
Phone: (407) 836-1480
The Frick Collection Center
Nestled along the shores of scenic Lake Ivanhoe just north of downtown, The Frick Collection Center is a charming hidden art oasis. This small lakeside gallery is located in a restored 1920s cottage, showcasing rotating exhibits of work from local Orlando artists. The intimate setting, along with free admission, makes experiencing the contemporary works personal and accessible. Exhibits range from thought-provoking to whimsical, highlighting Orlando’s creative community and spurring conversation about art. While there, be sure to take time to appreciate the surroundings. Meandering pathways, stone benches, and pier overlooks invite you to wander the peaceful grounds and take in views of the glistening lake and fountain. majestic oak trees dripping with Spanish moss frame the home, further adding to its timeless appeal. For a refreshing arts adventure off the beaten path, The Frick Collection Center perfectly blends culture, nature, and nostalgia into a lakeside hidden gem perfect for art lovers.
Address: 225 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803
Phone: (407) 246-4278
Escape Game Orlando
For interactive indoor fun with a twist, head to Escape Game Orlando, located just north of downtown. At this unique attraction, you and your group can put your communication skills, critical thinking, and problem solving to the test in an immersive escape room. Choose from an array of themed rooms like ancient temples, crime scenes, paranormal investigations, bank robberies, and Egyptian tombs. Gear up for an exhilarating cognitive challenge as you search for clues, find hidden objects, solve puzzles, crack codes, and try to escape before time runs out. With different rooms, storylines, and difficulty levels, Escape Game Orlando offers an intense 60-minute adventure perfect for friends, families, team building exercises, and anyone needing a mental workout. It’s an engaging hidden gem delivering next-level entertainment you won’t find at any theme park.
Address: 10042 University Blvd, Orlando, FL 32817
Phone: (407) 270-5299
Cru Chocolate Lounge
Indulge your sweet tooth in style at Cru Chocolate Lounge, a cozy cafe and chocolatier located in Orlando’s charming College Park neighborhood. At this hidden gem, artisan chocolates take center stage. Watch as chocolate crafters meticulously handcraft indulgent bonbons, truffles, and other confections in the onsite kitchen. Savor the exquisite flavors and silky textures of their signature creations like the Criollo or Raspberry Rose bonbon. Beyond sweets, Cru serves up premium coffees, teas, and made-to-order chocolate treats like rich crepes slathered in nutella and fruit. The intimate, modern lounge exudes vintage Parisian cafe vibes with its dark wood accents, marble counters, and leather couches – the perfect chocolate tasting spot. Cru Chocolate Lounge is a must-try for chocolate connoisseurs and anyone looking to discover Orlando’s tastiest hidden gems.
Address: 2607 Edgewater Dr Suite 1, Orlando, FL 32804
Phone: (407) 801-0845
Plan Your Tour of Orlando’s Hidden Gems
Venture off the well-trodden tourist track on your next Orlando vacation to uncover another side of the city. Get out and explore outdoor oases, cultural sites, local shops, and interactive attractions showcasing what the real O-Town is all about. Party Bus Orlando makes it easy to navigate the city in comfort while keeping your group together. Our customized charter buses and tours let you focus on experiencing Orlando’s amazing hidden gems rather than the hassles of traffic and parking. Call (407) 374-2470 today to start planning your private custom tour!