Exploring Iconic Lake Eola in Downtown Orlando

Venture outside of the tourist areas to experience an off-the-beaten-path attraction that your whole family will love when you want to skip the theme parks

The 23-acre Lake Eola was originally formed by a sinkhole in the city center, which has since become an iconic symbol of Downtown Orlando. In fact, the Lake Eola Fountain was selected as the icon or symbol on the flag of the City of Orlando. The park is also home to swans, ducks and other birds that have become a part of Lake Eola's charm.

Both locals and tourists flock to Lake Eola every weekend when the park hosts the Orlando Farmers Market at the corner of E. Central Blvd and North Eola Drive. At this venue, you can find over 50 vendors who attract families who enjoy strolling around the lake, buying local produce, eating healthy food and purchasing artisan cheeses, muffins and much more.

One of the most exciting activities available in Lake Eola is its swan paddle boats, which have become a favorite for couples. These pedal-powered icons of Lake Eola allow you to explore the lake with breathtaking views of the Orlando skyline. For under $20, you can rent one of these “swans” and find yourself doing something quite different to the theme parks Orlando is known for—and makes just as good of an opportunity for a selfie as meeting a theme park character.

You can also find some of Central Florida's most charming historical buildings near Lake Eola, including the Orange County Regional History Center, the Orlando Public Library, Church Street Station, and many more. The Lake Eola area is also home to great Orlando restaurants, cafes, wine bars, lounges, and shops—most of which are locally-owned and give you a chance to enjoy a day without long theme park lines under the sun.

Lake Eola and the Downtown Orlando area are located 22 miles north of Vista Cay Resort by Millenium. To get there, you can use an app ride like Uber or Lyft, but if you have a car you can jump on I-4 East heading to Daytona Beach and Downtown Orlando will soon be visible in the horizon. And when you get there, you will also have a chance to see a lot more of Downtown to help you see that Orlando is an amazing city full of life and excitement throughout.

Have questions about other off-the-beaten-path attractions, simply ask one of our staff members for pointers about what to do around Orlando.