Summer in most of the Sunshine State of Florida usually means two things: extreme heat and torrential rain. While it’s possible to find time in between storm clouds and heat waves to cool off in the ocean or just enjoy some time outside, one thing is for certain: autumn is the official beginning of Florida Season.

Located centrally in Florida less than 4 hours from Miami, Jacksonville, or Tampa Bay lies Orlando. It’s true: Orlando is a magical place. And it’s not just because it’s home to Cinderella’s castle at Walt Disney World. There’s an incredible mix of fun things to do in this great city that make it an ideal vacationing spot for not only families but young singles, baby boomers, foodies, outdoor adventurous types, luxury shoppers and international visitors. While the city was built on theme park fame, the number and variety of Orlando attractions have grown to include world-famous restaurants, high-end outlet shopping centers, theatrical performances, and amazing concert and sporting event venues. Golfers love the challenging and historic courses throughout the city, and art-lovers enjoy the Orlando Museum of Art, the Mennello Museum of American Art as well as a number of small, funky galleries and art studios sprinkled throughout the area.

All that was missing from the Orlando area? Axe throwing. That is, until now. BATL is excited to become part of the Orlando community, opening our 16th location and first in the Sunshine State of Florida this September that will serve the entire area of Greater Orlando including Kissimmee, Sanford, Saint Cloud, Winter Garden, Daytona Beach and more. If you live in the Orlando area or are planning a trip there this fall, let us help you out with some tips and make the most of your time in the theme park capital of the world.

Plan A Trip To BATL, The Backyard Axe Throwing League Orlando

The sport of urban axe throwing that has taken the world by storm started just as you might think it would: at a cottage with friends. In 2006, founder and CEO Matt Wilson to a cabin just outside of Toronto with his closest pals and after hours of rain, they had to find a way to keep busy. The group began throwing hatches at a tree, and instantly felt the cathartic release of sinking an axe into softwood. Little did they know this was the start of something huge.

Coming Fall of 2019, BATL is excited to open our first Florida location right in the heart of Orlando. Looking to get involved with BATL Orlando? We offer many ways to get involved in the sport of urban axe throwing that we started back in 2006.

BATL Casual, Walk-In Axe Throwing Sessions: If you’re looking for a casual way to get involved with the sport of axe throwing, all BATL venues offer public walk-in sessions (no reservations required) every weekend. It’s the perfect way to test the water when it comes to axe throwing, with little commitment. Our expert coaches are on hand to guide you the whole way, so whether you’re new to the sport or looking to hone in on your skill BATL has you covered.

BATL Premium, Private Axe Throwing Event Bookings: BATL Orlando will offer two types of private event bookings: 1-hour bookings for groups of 2-5 people, and 2-2.5 hour bookings for groups of 6 and up. No matter which private event you book, you’ll get the same thing that BATL has become famous for the best one on one instruction from our skilled and friendly staff members, followed by a round robin style tournament and single elimination playoff – all orchestrated by our staff, leaving you with nothing to do but throw axes and enjoy the company of your guests. These parties are perfectly suited to any adult gatherings (bachelor/bachelorette parties, corporate team building, adult birthdays, etc) and BATL Orlando is getting set up to offer complete bar and food services, which means even less planning for you.

BATL League, Weekly League Play: It’s no secret that the foundations of BATL start with our axe throwing leagues. Thousands strong we show the power of being good to each other, using the axe as a tool to build community inspired by our backyard roots. BATL Orlando will be no different. Our 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 worlds 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 Top Fall Activities In Orlando, via 10best.com

Visit an Orlando Theme Park

This one is a no brainer. Visitors both young and young at heart can immerse themselves in the world’s top theme parks right here in Orlando. Whether it’s the magic of Walt Disney World Resort, endless adventures at Universal Orlando Resort, an aquatic wonderland at SeaWorld Orlando, or building family fun at LEGOLAND Florida Resort, Orlando has theme parks that are perfect for you. What’s more, our parks continually have new projects on the horizon, so even the most frequent visitors will always find fresh ways to create lasting memories, year after year, in Orlando: Theme Park Capital of the World.

Central Florida Oktoberfest

This uber authentic German festival has gotten so popular over the years that the German American Society of Central Florida has had to start selling tickets to keep the place from overcrowding. With two October weekends in which to get your oompah on, this resplendent celebration of German beer, food and music is family friendly, festive and a great way to usher in the start of fall. In 2019, the weekends of October 4-5 and 25-26 (Friday/Saturday) will bring with them Hofbrau on tap, live music all day (or evening) long, friendly and festive schunkeling with the band and more.

Epcot International Wine And Food Festival

Like clockwork with the fall holiday calendar (autumn brings with it a host of holidays that inspire many to throw temporary diet caution to the wind!), Walt Disney World’s renown Epcot International Food & Wine Festival brings the foodies out in full force. Why? How about tens of international food and beverage marketplaces from which to sample? How about a concert series with nightly performance from well known acts? How about an array of culinary demonstrations and beverage seminars by celebrity chefs and TV personalities? Add to this that all of it (save the food/wine purchases you make on site) are included with regular admission to Epcot and you’ve got a winner of a festival that runs for several weeks throughout the season.

Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens

From goats at the petting zoo to the super cool insect zoo (your enthusiasm will depend on your comfort level with creepy-crawlies) this Sanford Zoo isn’t as small as it may seem. More than 500 animals representing roughly 200 species call this place home, including elephants, llamas, cheetah, apes and a whole house full of reptiles to ooh and ahh over. Active visitors may want to take a turn on the on-site aerial adventure course and everyone enjoys the weekend Keeper Chats. Who wouldn’t want to learn more about the zoo’s colorful, beautiful residents?

Be sure to make the most of your time in magical Orlando, and make a stop to the brand new BATL Orlando location is a must the next time you’re in the area!