Megan duBois

There’s something to be said about walking into the local watering hole and knowing you’re going to get a great cocktail or craft beer. In Orlando, the best bars are scattered around the city, from the theme park corridor all the way to historic downtowns and even some of the area's trendiest neighborhoods. Some of the best bars in Orlando include cool wine spots where you can enjoy glasses by the ounce or glass, ultra-themed cocktail lounges where you can fall down the rabbit hole to wonderland, or even retro tiki bars complete with all of the kitschy decorations. And if you’re into local beer, don’t worry; we’ve also got that covered. These are the best bars in Orlando. This guide was updated by Orlando-based writer Megan duBois. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.  RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in Orlando

Orlando is known for its epic theme parks, but outside of the theme park corridor, there’s even more to see and do in the City Beautiful. From destination restaurants and cool museums to gardens and live performances, there’s always something going on in Orlando. And even when the temperatures hit triple digits in the summer, you don’t have to worry because some of the world’s best water parks are here too. No matter if a local or a tourist there’s always something new to see or do in the city. Whether you’re looking for something relaxing like a spa day or a way to get out and enjoy the warm afternoons, these are the best things to do in Orlando, Florida. This guide was updated by Orlando-based writer Megan duBois. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.  RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in OrlandoThe best Airbnbs in Orlando

When you think of Orlando, you likely think of the incredible theme parks with towering coasters and attractions that dot the city skyline. In fact, Orlando is known as the theme park capital of the world, with over a dozen parks within a short distance of each other. If you haven’t been to one of the parks in a while, now is a great time to go because 2024 and 2025 are set to bring some of the biggest and best new additions to the area's parks. Just this year, Disney added a new attraction based on the popular movie The Princess and the Frog, and Universal launched its new kid-friendly land based on popular DreamWorks characters and films. And don’t even get us started on what’s coming in 2025 (hint: it’s an all-new theme park at Universal Orlando Resort called Epic Universe). With so much happening at the best Orlando theme parks, now is a great time to visit or plan your next trip. This guide was updated by Orlando-based writer Megan duBois. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.  RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Orlando🍣 The best restaurants in Orlando🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Orlando

Tired of the same old beach destinations? Say hello to the Gulf Coast, where beach days are a little more relaxed and the chill crowds are focused more on catching rays and having fun, less on flaunting trends and snapping IG pics. From Texas to the Florida Panhandle, the Gulf Coast boasts beaches for every style: stunning white-sand beaches with emerald waters, spring break spots that still maintain their chill and hidden retreats offering world-class fishing and outdoor adventure. On top of all that, you’ll find no shortage of Southern charm and hospitality. And did we mention seafood? The bounty of the Gulf is served up mere steps from the source, so you can dine on the freshest shrimp, crabs, fish and more after a long day relaxing on the beach. The best Gulf Coast beaches in Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi and Florida will make you rethink that vacation to overhyped hotspots. Each beach has its own unique offerings, from art and culture to casinos or camping. Next time you want to hit the beach, consider these Gulf Coast beaches for a fabulous time without all the fuss.

All around the United States, amusement parks and theme parks welcome guests almost daily to enjoy a day of fun. While you may instantly think of the big hitters like the bi-coastal Disney or Universal theme parks, there are plenty of others around the country worth visiting, too. Many of the best amusement parks feature a variety of attractions that can keep families entertained throughout the day. From thrill-seekers looking for their new favorite rollercoaster to kids looking to test the waters on new rides, U.S. theme parks really have something for everyone. And let’s not forget about the food, which has come a long way from fried feasts. These days, theme parks are serving up everything from character-shaped ice creams and savory snacks to incredible restaurant-style dinners that feature hand-rolled pasta and perfectly cooked steaks. From the East Coast to the West Coast, and everywhere in between, an amusement park is usually close by. These are the best amusement parks in the U.S. for 2024. RECOMMENDED: The best attractions in the U.S.America's most popular theme parksThe best indoor amusement parks in the U.S.

Orlando might be known for its many, many world-leading theme parks, but that doesn’t mean the party ends when night falls. Oh no. Between the kids clubs and the rollercoasters, Orlando’s nightlife scene is thriving – you’ve just got to know where to look.  Most of the action happens downtown, on Orange Avenue and Church Street, where you can bar hop without ever having to hail an uber. But there’s spots all over the city, and we’ve rounded up the very best below. Most of these are 21 and up, but if you fancy a drink with the kids in tow, don’t forget Walt Disney World has an entertainment district. Here are the best nightlife spots in Orlando right now.  RECOMMENDED:🍸 The best bars in Orlando🌮 The best restaurants in Orlando🎢 The best theme parks in Orlando🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Orlando This guide was written by Megan duBois, a writer based in Orlando. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.

It’s no secret that there’s a hell of a lot of food to choose from in Orlando. In the past few decades, Orlando has risen to become a culinary center in Florida and a serious contender with the biggest cities in the food world.  And sure, it might be synonymous with Disney and theme parks, but Orlando knows how to do fine dining too. In 2024, a whole 48 Orlando restaurants now find themselves on the Michelin guide in some capacity. For those, head to our Orlando Michelin guide, but for everything from sandwiches to home-style classics, here are the best restaurants in Orlando right now.  RECOMMENDED:🎢 The best theme parks in Orlando🏖️ The best beaches near Orlando🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Orlando

Orlando might be known as theme park haven, but have you ever wondered what happens after dark? Well we’ve got news: they go clubbing. And the nightlife here comes in all shapes and sizes.  Here you’ll find pulse-pounding EDM hubs, LGBTQ+ spots, country clubs and jazz bars, and a load of places somewhere in between. Don’t expect Miami or Vegas levels of crazy, but the nightlife scene here is something special. Ready to party? Here are the best clubs in Orlando right now.  RECOMMENDED:🍸 The best bars in Orlando🌮 The best restaurants in Orlando🎢 The best theme parks in Orlando🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Orlando This guide was last updated by Megan duBois, a writer based in Orlando. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.  

Where to stay in Key West? We have what you need. This is the best place to enjoy the ocean, hop in a kayak, and relax all day by the sea. And whether you’re a diver, snorkeler, or certified chiller, Key West has got something great for you. But don’t just plan out your activities in meticulous detail. Make sure you choose the absolute best hotel going, to suit every kind of trip, whatever you want from your Key West stay. Lucky for you, we’ve made it easy and picked out the very best hotels that Key West has to offer, close to a whole host of great restaurants, bars, and attractions. Read on for exactly where to stay in the Conch Republic, making sure your Key West stay is exactly what you need. RECOMMENDED: The best Airbnbs in Key West Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every hotel featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. 

Key West is one of those places that is so idyllic it can be hard to believe it’s actually real. Picture the scene: palm trees swaying gently in the breeze, surrounded by crystalline turquoise waters, basking in year-round sunshine - absolute bliss. If that ain’t the good life, we don’t know what is. And there are few better ways to properly indulge in Key West than by renting an Airbnb. The city’s finest Airbnbs range from abodes that are mere steps away from the area’s biggest attractions to those that are perfect for lounging by the beach. We’ve sifted through all of Key West’s Airbnb rental options to find the ones that are totally unmissable: read on to find out more. Updated April 2024: With new properties constantly emerging from the woodwork, it's only right that we share the ones that have recently caught our attention. Prepare to be dazzled by a renovated condo with communal pool and a classy duplex that opens up onto a private beach.  RECOMMENDED: 🏝Why not stay at one of the best hotels in Key West? Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

The Wall Street Journal published an article recently with a headline that asked: “Wait, Is Fort Lauderdale…Cool?” To locals, this seemed both like confirmation of something they already knew and absurd. Because if that’s ever been an actual question, it was answered long ago. That’s especially true when we’re talking about the Fort Lauderdale restaurant scene. Sure, a generation ago, dining out here largely meant staid Las Olas restaurants serving vaguely continental cuisine. But now, the city has stellar restaurants spread from the sand's edge to the county's western reaches. To be sure, we visited the city’s chef-driven spots and hidden strip-mall gems and places as cool as, well, Fort Lauderdale itself. Follow our guide to the best restaurants in Fort Lauderdale to see just how cool this city has become. This guide was updated by South Florida-based writer Eric Barton. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.  RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Fort Lauderdale🏖️ The best beaches near Fort Lauderdale🏨 The best hotels in Fort Lauderdale🌴 The ultimate guide to Florida

The first time I went to Key West, well, let’s just say it’s a bit of a blur. It was like that for time No. 2 through 17. Then came a trip, years later, married and semi-mature, when I wanted something different. I asked for recommendations from a native, a fifth-gen Conch, as the locals are called. She loaded my Google Maps Key West page with places I’ve been hitting since. It’s not that I still don’t have those blurry nights on Duval, hitting Sloppy Joe’s and seeing what happens after. It’s just now I go to the tree-shaded neighborhoods elsewhere on the island to hit happy hour at bars full of locals, and eat truly great food at the corner bistros, and have breakfast the next day, blocks away from the tourist-produced detritus of last night. Want a visit to Key West restaurants that combines the best tourist spots with places locals have been swearing by for, well, five generations? We’ve got you covered. This guide was updated by South Florida-based writer Eric Barton. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.  RECOMMENDED:📍The best things to do in Key West🍻The best bars in Key West🏨 The best hotels in Key West🏘 The best Airbnbs in Key West🏖️ The best beaches in Key West

Miami favorite The Wharf's Fort Lauderdale location is right along New River, a lively addition to the spate of new businesses setting up shop in the historic Las Olas district. The Wharf Fort Lauderdale brings the Hamptons to Florida with its whitewash fencing, white-and-navy nautical decor, dog-friendly Astroturf, and boat parking along the 480-foot-long dock space. And the massive space parties just as hard.  Within the expansive 1.25-acre event space are four bars and five food-court–style eateries helmed by local restaurants. Look out for noteworthy concepts including classic American fare from Lunchroom by be nice Restaurants (the group also responsible for local favorites Coconuts, Foxy Brown and Top Hat Delicatessen), Asian fusion spot Mrs. Balloo, pan-Asian cuisine from chef Timon Balloo and pizza from chef Jose Mendin’s The Piefather. During the day The Wharf is a casual eatery and hang-out spot for people of all ages, including families, but at night the 21+ crowd gets the place to themselves for drinking and dancing. Bar top seating encourages groups to sit and linger while they enjoy cocktails and outdoor games like cornhole, while seafaring elements make for perfect photo opps—not that we think this crowd needs the motivation to snap rosé selfies for the ’Gram.  Those looking for a more traditional restaurant experience should pop next door to RIVERTAIL, run by James Beard-nominated chef José Mendín. The seafood-driven restaurant has an impressive raw bar menu

We're willing to bet you know at least one kid who loves Peppa Pig. The British TV show has been enthralling youthful audiences around the world for almost two decades and has even generated a generation of American kids with fake British accents (seriously). Well, all those millions of young Peppa fans will soon have their own dedicated theme park in the United States that they can bug their parents to visit. Move over Disney World, Peppa Pig is headed to Florida.  The new theme park is slated to open in Orlando, Florida in 2022 and will feature rides, attractions, a water play area and live shows all catering to preschool-age children and their families. Kids will have the opportunity to meet Peppa, George, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig and the rest of the animal gang as you explore the adorable world that looks like it’s been dropped right out of your TV and into central Florida.  Peppa fans will love rides such as Grandad Dog’s Pirate Boat Ride, where little piggies can hop aboard and set sail for Pirate Island, and Peppa Pig’s Balloon Ride, where you get to fly high above the park in one of Miss Rabbit’s hot air balloons. Other rides feature characters like Grampy Rabbit and Mr. Bull.  The park will also feature two play zones: A splash pad where kids can mimic jumping in muddy puddles (Peppa's favorite pastime) filled with fountains, slides and interactive water features perfect for hot Florida summers and a Pirate Island where everyone in the family can look for buried treasur

After a year of being deprived of the special kind of magic that is Disney World fireworks, the theme parks are introducing two new shows this fall—just in time for the park’s 50th anniversary.  The celebration begins October 1, and the resort-wide party is set to last a whopping 18 months and feature fun new attractions, destination-worthy new dishes and (drum roll, please) two brand-new firework shows at Magic Kingdom and EPCOT.  At Magic Kingdom Park, the new ’Disney Enchantment’ show will light up the night with dazzling colors around Cinderella Castle and down Main Street, USA. The show will feature an all-new soundtrack, lighting, fireworks and projections—not just on the castle itself, but all the way down Main Street, too.  Artist concept courtesy Disney Meanwhile, when the lights go down around World Showcase Lagoon at EPCOT, Mickey fans will be in awe of the highly anticipated new show, ’Harmonious.’ The fireworks display will be one of the largest ever presented at a Disney park, combining Disney music with pyrotechnics, actual moving fountains, and fantastic lighting. For the ’Harmonious’ soundtrack, classic Disney songs have been reinterpreted and re-recorded in more than a dozen languages by a group of 240 different artists from around the world.  Can’t wait that long for some Disney magic? Disney World is currently open for business, and starting July 1, both Magic Kingdom Park and EPCOT will bring back their fireworks shows with the same nighttime spectacula