Orlando, Florida is a city that likely needs no introduction. Famously known as a city built around theme parks, a trip to Orlando was on the top of the list for nearly every child growing up. However, Florida still has much to offer for adults and children-at-heart. You know all the big-ticket parks: Disney World, Universal Studios, Epcot Centre, Gatorland, SeaWorld, Discovery Cove, Legoland, and so much more. However, over the years attractions have grown to include world-famous restaurants, high-end outlet shopping centres, theatrical performances, and amazing concert and sporting event venues.

Golfers will love the challenging and historic courses throughout the city and surrounding areas, and art-lovers can enjoy major hubs such as the Orlando Museum of Art, the Mennello Museum of American Art, as well as a number of small, independent galleries and art studios found throughout the area. Fans of aviation have an opportunity to visit the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, which features exhibits and displays, historic spacecraft and memorabilia, shows, two IMAX theatres, and a range of bus tours of the spaceport.

From fine-dining destinations to laid-back cafés, Orlando is sure to have something for everyone when it comes to food. Best of all, the cities most famous eateries aren’t know to stick to tradition. From world-famous food trucks with exciting and innovative menus to hole-in-the-wall diners to fine dining establishments, the cities culinary offerings are as diverse as the Orlando itself. Lovers of craft beer will also find themselves at home in Orlando, with places like Orlando Brewing, Dead Lizard Brewing Company, and Ten10 Brewing but just a few of the dozens of breweries and taprooms scattered across the city,

Now that we’ve gone over the basics, it’s time to think about optimising your next trip to Orlando. If you’re looking for an area that is a veritable one-stop-shop for all things fun, look no further than the Church Street Marketplace. Located in the heart of Downtown Orlando, the Church Street District is home to an eclectic mix of world-class dining, professional sports, live entertainment, nightclubs, bars, and theatres. With a history dating back to the 1800s, you can be sure that this is an area you’ll want to explore while spending time in Orlando. Here is our list of the top things to do in and around the Church Street Marketplace in Orlando.

Go Axe Throwing At BATL: The Backyard Axe Throwing League

BATL Orlando delivers thousands of square feet of axe throwing in the heart of Orlando in the Church Street District. Our Orlando location is just off Interstate 4 and is less than 10 minutes from the Amway Center – home of the NBA’s Orlando Magic. Our newest US venue can host parties from 2 – 100 people, which makes it perfectly suited for almost any outing. While you’re axe throwing, BATL Orlando offers a fully licensed bar serving a selection of local beers, wine and coolers as well as a delicious shareable food menu in the works. Alternatively, for a plating fee of $3.00 per person, you are welcome to bring food for your guests or have it delivered, as long as it is prepared off-site. Outside desserts such as cakes, pies, and cupcakes are exempt from plating fee charge. Celebrate your sweet tooth!

The Backyard Axe Throwing League pioneered the sport of urban axe throwing back in 2006, so it’s no surprise that we’re the best at what we do. Our weekly league play is what made us famous, but each of our 16 locations across North America offers other ways to get involved with axe throwing. Our private event group bookings are offered for groups of 2 and up and are perfectly suited for any occasion – adult birthdays, bachelor and bachelorette parties, corporate team building, or just a summer outing with friends. Private event bookings (BATL Premium) last 1.5 hours and include one on one coaching from our expert staff, followed by a round-robin tournament and playoff. If you’re looking to get involved in our sport with less commitment, BATL also offers weekly hourly public walk-in sessions (BATL Casual) with no advance booking required; just show up and hone your skills! Make sure to stop at BATL for some axe throwing next time you’re in the Orlando area!

If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, try joining an axe-throwing league. BATL Orlando’s axe throwing leagues run for 8 weeks, completely under the guidance of our resident axe gurus. Each season consists of round-robin style tournament play, where you’ll throw 28 games against other people in the league, culminating in a top 16 double elimination playoff on week 8. Our leagues are suitable for people of all skill levels, with staff on hand at all times ready to give you tips and tricks to make sure that you’re hitting the bullseye. League play falls under the National Axe Throwing Federation (NATF) umbrella, the world’s foremost governing body of the sport of axe throwing (of which BATL is a founding member). Being part of the NATF also gives you access to the most advanced statistic tracking in the sport of urban axe throwing.

Other Fun Outings In Downtown Orlando:

Check Out Art Orlando

If wandering around downtown Orlando is your idea of a day well spent, this is the activity for you. Grab a map from the DT Orlando Information Center and get lost in the streets, only to stumble upon one of the nine massive contemporary art sculptures that make up art Orlando. Not only is it a good way to get to know the lay of the land, but they will also bring clout to your Instagram game.

Hit The Open Seas At Lake Eola Park

Alright, well, it might not be the sea…but that doesn’t mean that Lake Eola can’t be just as much fun. Located in the heart of Downtown Orlando, Lake Eola Park is one of Orlando’s most famous attractions – the centre of which is a huge swan-filled lake. Spend the day hanging out by the water with the birds, or rent a swan-shaped boat of your own and enjoy a cruise. Don’t forget to bring a picnic!

A Night On The Town

The unofficial centre of Downtown Orlando, Church Street is the place to go for a great night out. You’ll find some of the city’s best restaurants here, plus plenty of cool bars and night clubs. Church Street is also home to the historic Railroad Depot, as well as theatres, shopping plazas and the huge Amway Center sports arena – which hosts the NBA’s Orlando Magic, concerts, and more.