Orlando Unplugged: July News & Updates

Step into the heart of Orlando this July with our vibrant news roundup. Uncover the city's freshest stories, from community highlights to must-see events that light up the season. Whether you’re a local resident or an eager traveler, our selection provides a unique look into the vibrant and diverse life of Central Florida. Discover new experiences, celebrate local culture, and stay informed with everything that makes Orlando an unforgettable destination.

Originally published on June 30th, 2024. Updated for accuracy.

News Highlights

Central Florida Public Media Revives Tiny Desk Concert Series

Central Florida Public Media, formerly known as WMFE, is reviving its annual Tiny Desk Concert showcase, highlighting local talent in NPR's renowned Tiny Desk Contest. After hundreds of submissions, a selection committee of community members and artists has narrowed it down to the top five finalists, chosen by Central Florida Public Media listeners. These finalists performed live at The Social in Downtown Orlando in June. Check out the video submissions, here.

Orlando Museum of Art Announces Florida Prize 2024 Winner

OMA recently awarded Yanira Collado the prestigious Florida Prize in Contemporary Art for her intricate mixed-media installations. Collado's innovative approach earned her the $20,000 best-in-show award, highlighting her profound impact on Florida's art scene. Njeri Kinuthia, an Orlando-based artist, received the People's Choice Award and a $2,500 prize for her vibrant interactive multimedia works. The exhibition, curated by Coralie Claeysen-Gleyzon, Cottrell-Lovett Chief Curator, runs until August 25th, 2024, offering a showcase of Florida's dynamic artistic talent.

Orlando to Host Florida's Second Passport Office

Orlando has been selected by the U.S. State Department to house Florida's second passport office, announced by Orlando U.S. Rep. Maxwell Frost. Currently, Florida, the third-largest state by population, only has one passport agency located in Miami. This new office aims to alleviate the burden on residents who currently have to travel long distances or incur expenses for overnight stays to obtain passports. Frost, who advocated for the office's establishment, highlighted the challenges faced by working-class Floridians and the need for more accessible passport services. The expansion is part of a nationwide effort to meet the increasing demand for passport services across the United States. The U.S. General Services Administration will now commence the process of selecting a location for the new office, with Frost hopeful that Orlando's robust tourism infrastructure will expedite the decision-making process.

Mills Market Expands with Onigiri Concept

Mills Market, formerly Tien Hung Market, continues its transformation under local restaurateurs Jimmy and Johnny Tung with the introduction of UniGirl, an upcoming onigiri vendor. This addition follows the successful launch of Zaru, a gyoza and udon shop recognized by Michelin, signaling the market's shift towards a modern Asian-inspired food destination. Banh Mi Boy, another tenant, will also undergo renovations to include dine-in seating and a refreshed menu featuring Vietnamese sandwich classics with innovative twists. Future plans for Mills Market include a hidden Japanese whisky bar and over 10 new micro restaraunts and shops, set to debut in phases. The market serves as a culinary incubator for local chefs, reflecting a legacy project deeply rooted in the community's history and future aspirations.

Wall Street Revamp Includes Bellhop's Return

Wall Street Plaza in Downtown Orlando is undergoing significant changes with the ownership of Gilt Nightclub acquiring several key properties, including Bellhop, Hooch, Shine, and The Hen House. Thriving Hospitality Group, led by Mike D’esposito, will oversee the food and beverage operations, while the nightclub owners focus on live events and nightlife enhancements. Plans include remodeling venues like Hooch into an American Country-themed spot, temporary closures for Shine's makeover, and potential additions like an ice cream concept at The Hen House. Bellhop, the upscale cocktail lounge, will soon reopen with a new menu and a grand celebration, marking its return to the vibrant downtown scene.

Quantum Leap Winery Moves to New Lakefront Location

Quantum Leap Winery, known for its innovative approach to winemaking, has announced its relocation from the Mills 50 area to a scenic new venue at The Cottage on Lake Fairview. Situated at 4410 Edgewater Drive, adjacent to The Acre Orlando, the winery plans to utilize both names for its new home. Currently undergoing renovations to accommodate onsite wine production, Quantum Leap Winery aims to unveil its new space with a public opening event scheduled for Friday, July 12th.

Coro Restaurant Brings Italian-Inspired Dining to Audubon Park

Audubon Park welcomes a new culinary addition with the opening of Coro Restaurant at 3022 Corrine Drive. Set to open in early July, Coro is the brainchild of Chef Timothy Lovero, formerly of Luke’s Kitchen in Maitland. Taking over the former Bikes Beans and Bordeaux Cafe, Coro promises a menu blending New American influences with Italian-inspired small plates like dumplings and pierogies, complemented by house-made juices and kombucha. Reservations can be made online for those eager to explore this exciting new dining experience.

Perla’s Pizza Returns to Winter Park

Prepare your taste buds, Winter Park: Perla’s Pizza is set to make a comeback at the former Winter Park Collective and The Wine Barn location. Originally co-founded by Michael Collantes of Soseki and Christian Ziegler, Perla’s Pizza gained fame in Ivanhoe Village for its creative offerings, including the popular banana and pepperoni pizza. After a brief hiatus, Collantes is reviving the brand, promising a fresh menu of innovative pizzas that captured local hearts before.

New Ivanhoe Food Hall Seeks Local Vendors

Exciting news for food enthusiasts in Ivanhoe Village: City Food Hall is gearing up to transform the former The Hall on The Yard building into a vibrant culinary destination. Known for its Miami roots and commitment to local flavors, City Food Hall will introduce ten chef-driven concepts alongside two golf simulators for interactive sports entertainment. Scheduled to reopen this summer, the 12,550-square-foot space will feature indoor and outdoor bars, plus three private event areas. Interested vendors can inquire about leasing opportunities by emailing info@cityfoodhall.com.

Ivanhoe Park Brewing Introduces Ivanhoe Park Lager House at Former Deadwords Brewing Location

Following their acquisition of Deadwords Brewing Company, Ivanhoe Park Brewing Co. reveals their new venture: Ivanhoe Park Lager House. Set to open around June 12th, coinciding with the U.S. Men’s National Team soccer match, this concept will specialize in traditional lager styles like Kolsch Wheels, Side Pull Taps, Slow Pour Pilsner, and Milk Tubes. These offerings complement Ivanhoe Park’s existing lineup of ales, stouts, IPAs, and seasonal brews, with select Deadwords Brew recipes making occasional appearances. Stay tuned for updates on the menu offerings alongside their distinctive craft beers brewed in-house once again.

Hamburger Mary’s Orlando Relocates to Kissimmee

Hamburger Mary’s Orlando bids farewell to Church Street after 16 vibrant years, announcing a move to Kissimmee near the parks. While the exact location remains under wraps, fans can follow their Broadway Brunch at Jack and Honey’s in Thornton Park during the transition. Known for drag performances, brunches, and community events, Hamburger Mary’s leaves a legacy at 110 W. Church Street, having served nearly two million patrons since opening. Their final service day downtown was in early June, marking the end of an era in Orlando’s dining and entertainment scene.

DTO Launches DTO Live Initiative with Year-Round Arts and Music

Greg Hayworth didn't let nearby train noises or rain dampen his sidewalk performance in Downtown Orlando. Serenading passersby with a mix of tunes from "The Piña Colada Song" to "Under the Boardwalk," the guitarist was part of the new DTO Live initiative launched this summer. Collaborating with United Arts of Central Florida, the city aims to enrich Orlando's cultural landscape by hosting over 800 events through June 2025 across 11 downtown locations. The diverse lineup includes jazz, R&B, alternative music, dance performances, poetry readings, and even mime acts by artists like Ben Macon. Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, at the initiative's kick-off, emphasized DTO Live's role in bolstering the city's artistic vibrancy and economic vitality. Alongside live performances, DTO Live will feature six large-scale art installations, starting with a rainbow-painted arch titled "No Place Like Home." This initiative, part of Project DTO 2.0, underscores Orlando's commitment to fostering creativity and enhancing its reputation as an inclusive cultural hub.

Orlando Museum of Art's Instagram Hacked in Crypto Promotion

The Orlando Museum of Art faced a social media hack as its Instagram page was compromised to promote a cryptocurrency. Hackers replaced content with a video endorsing a "MemeCoin" and altered the profile link to direct users to a Telegram group focused on volatile crypto investments. The museum's Facebook and website remained unaffected. The incident sparked speculation about its connection to the upcoming Florida Prize Exhibition, with reactions ranging from surprise to humor on social media. The museum swiftly removed the video and is working with Meta to resolve the issue.

Orlando Abortion Clinic Faces Closure, Launches Urgent Fundraiser

The Center of Orlando for Women, Orlando's sole independently operated abortion clinic, has initiated a crucial online fundraiser via GoFundMe to secure its continued operation. With a target of $500,000, the campaign aims to cover essential expenses including rent, equipment, patient support services, legal fees, administrative costs, and staff salaries. Situated just south of downtown, the clinic is one of only two remaining abortion providers in Orlando alongside a Planned Parenthood health center. Following Florida's stringent new law effective May 1st, 2024, which restricts abortions after six weeks of pregnancy with limited exceptions, the clinic faces imminent risk of closure. The fundraiser underscores the critical role of the Center of Orlando for Women in providing essential reproductive healthcare amidst increasingly challenging legal and operational hurdles.

UCF Philanthropist Couple Lists $8M Italian-Style Winter Park Home

Anthony and Sonya Nicholson, renowned UCF benefactors, have put their Italian-style Winter Park home on the market for $8 million. The property, located at 1400 Alabama Drive, offers six bedrooms, six full bathrooms, and three half-bathrooms. The estate features a library, wine cellar, home theater, and expansive outdoor areas, including a pool and guest house. The Nicholsons are notable for their significant contributions to UCF, including a $2.5 million donation to the Nicholson School of Communication and Media. The sale of their home marks a significant moment in the local real estate market, reflecting the couple's lasting impact on the community.

Two Orlando Restaurants Named 'Most Legendary' by Southern Living

Southern Living magazine has recognized two Orlando eateries in its list of Florida's "most legendary" restaurants. These spots are celebrated for their cultural significance and local charm, eschewing trendy appeal for authentic dining experiences.

Lee and Rick's Oyster Bar: Ranked at No. 8, Lee and Rick’s Oyster Bar on 5621 Old Winter Garden Road has been a staple for over 70 years. Known for its 80-foot oyster bar, it offers cold beer and freshly shucked shellfish in a nautical setting, overseen by the family's eldest son.

Bull & Bear Steakhouse: At No. 15, located within the Waldorf-Astoria Orlando on 14200 Bonnet Creek Resort Lane, Bull & Bear reimagines steakhouse classics with personalized table-side service and dramatic presentations, including their famed dessert, The Lemon.

The full list features 15 additional restaurants across Florida, showcasing a diverse array of beloved culinary destinations.

Target to Anchor Lake Nona West, Setting a New Retail Standard

Excitement mounts as Target prepares to debut as the inaugural anchor tenant at Lake Nona West, marking a significant milestone for the burgeoning community. Spanning nearly 150,000 SQ FT, Target's arrival fulfills a long-awaited desire among Lake Nona residents, positioning itself at the heart of the 405,000-square-foot lifestyle shopping center on Lake Nona Boulevard. Designed to blend large and junior anchor stores with a vibrant mix of shops, dining options, and essential services, Lake Nona West aims to cultivate a dynamic community hub. Tavistock, the visionary force behind Lake Nona's development, confirms advanced discussions with various tenants, promising a blend of esteemed national brands and local favorites to enrich the retail landscape.

First Look at Epic Universe Preview Center at Universal CityWalk

Universal Orlando is set to unveil the Epic Universe Preview Center on Friday, June 13th, at CityWalk. This new attraction allows visitors to explore detailed models of the upcoming Epic Universe theme park, scheduled to open in 2025. Located in the former Universal Legacy Store, the center offers augmented reality experiences to preview attractions, shops, and more. Guests can also shop for exclusive merchandise and enjoy immersive photo opportunities, giving them a glimpse into the colorful world of Epic Universe.

Orlando to Form Advisory Board for Pulse Nightclub Memorial

City officials in Orlando are moving forward with plans to establish an advisory board for the Pulse nightclub memorial project, marking progress in honoring victims and survivors of the 2016 tragedy. The board will include shooting survivors, victims' family members, first responders, and other stakeholderst. This board aims to ensure transparency and inclusivity in developing the memorial, following setbacks with the former OnePulse Foundation. City leaders, acknowledging challenges ahead, plan to prioritize community input and transparency in the memorial's development.

'Pathways' Showcases Florida's Emerging Art Stars Across Two Galleries

'Pathways' presents the work of six emerging artists competing for the Carlos Malamud Prize at both Rollins College and UCF galleries. The exhibit spans nearly 60 works including photography, sculpture, installations, and mixed media. Highlights include Tenee' Hart's winning fiber sculptures, Samuel Aye-Gboyin's Ghanaian portraits, Fernando Ramos's masked portraits, and Diego Alejandro Waisman's Miami trailer park series. Clio Yang explores digital culture, while Patricia Cooke's neoprene furniture installations add whimsy. The exhibition aims to bridge emerging artists with established institutions, offering mentorship and visibility crucial to their careers.

Sak Comedy Lab's Glittering Debut on Church Street

Sak Comedy Lab celebrated the grand opening of its new 175-seat venue at 55 W. Church St., marking a return to Downtown Orlando where it first began in 1991. The new space boasts a theme park-quality lobby and state-of-the-art theater setup, enhancing its renowned improv performances. Despite the absence of famed alum Wayne Brady, original founder Terry Olson joined the festivities, underscoring Sak's enduring local cultural influence. The evening featured a lively "Duel of Fools" competition, affirming Sak's commitment to uproarious, family-friendly comedy.

Florida Hemp Industry's Relief: DeSantis Vetoes Controversial Bill

Governor Ron DeSantis's recent veto of SB 1698 has brought a temporary relief to Florida's hemp industry, sparing it from stringent regulations that threatened its existence. The bill aimed to impose strict THC limits and ban delta-8 THC products, which industry experts argued would have devastated businesses and prompted many to relocate out of state. DeSantis cited concerns over the bill's impact on small businesses and the economy, emphasizing the need for a more balanced regulatory approach. While the veto is celebrated as a victory, industry members remain vigilant amid future legislative sessions and impending challenges.

Downtown Orlando Introduces Ride DTO, New On-Demand Electric Shuttle Service

Downtown Orlando is set to launch Ride DTO, a pioneering on-demand electric shuttle service this fall, enhancing transportation options and visitor access within the downtown core. The initiative, supported by an agreement with Circuit Transit, will operate five mini-shuttles, including ADA-compliant vehicles, catering exclusively to small groups via a mobile app. Unlike shared rides, Ride DTO offers direct service to destinations without pooling passengers en route. Initial fares are anticipated at $1 per ride, with potential discounts tied to downtown restaurant patronage. Operating daily from 8AM. to 8PM, the service aims to support daytime mobility for downtown workers and visitors alike. The city's investment of $595,712.50 for an initial year underscores its commitment to expanding urban mobility, following successful models in cities like West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale. Scheduled to commence in September, Ride DTO will prioritize accessibility and convenience while providing regular updates on ridership and service metrics to ensure effective implementation and community engagement.

EDC Orlando 2024 Lineup Unveiled: 100+ Performers and Record-Breaking B2B Sets

Insomniac has unveiled the highly anticipated lineup for Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) Orlando 2024, set to take place at Tinker Field from November 8th to November 10th. This year's edition promises to be the largest EDM festival in Florida's history, drawing over 300,000 attendees for three electrifying nights Under the Electric Sky. Highlighting the event are a record-breaking 12 back-to-back (b2b) performances, including debut collaborations like Kaskade b2b Alison Wonderland, Deorro b2b Timmy Trumpet, and Oliver Heldens b2b Benny Benassi. These sets will showcase a blend of established favorites and exciting newcomers, setting a new standard for the festival. Insomniac's iconic stages—kineticFIELD, circuitGROUNDS, neonGARDEN, and stereoBLOOM—will host performances curated by acclaimed brands such as Bassrush, Factory93, and Insomniac Records, ensuring a diverse and immersive musical experience. The festival's Ryno Bus Art Car will spotlight local talent, with themed days dedicated to Florida breaks and Drum & Bass. Downtown Orlando will pulsate with pre-parties and afterparties, enhancing the festival experience both within and beyond the venue. Tickets, including General Admission, GA+, and VIP options, go on sale June 27th at 12PM, here.

Blue Bamboo Transforms Former Winter Park Library into Arts Hub

Winter Park's former library building will undergo a transformation led by Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts. Following approval from the City Commission, Blue Bamboo, alongside partners like Central Florida Vocal Arts and Performing Arts Matters, plans to repurpose the space into a vibrant performing arts hub. The project, which secured the site over competing proposals, including one from Rollins College, envisions a multi-level venue. It will feature a ground-floor performance space and upper levels dedicated to education, studios, offices, and galleries. The third floor will be adaptable for community events. Blue Bamboo's move comes after the nonprofit's previous plans fell through, marking a significant investment in Winter Park's cultural landscape with a 40-year lease starting at $132,000 annually, subject to incremental increases.

Delta Launches New Orlando-to-London Heathrow Flights for Winter 2024

Delta Air Lines is set to introduce seasonal flights between Orlando International Airport (MCO) and London Heathrow Airport (LHR) starting October 26, offering Floridians direct access to the U.K. This new route, operated four times weekly until March 29th, will utilize Delta’s A330-900neo aircraft featuring Delta One Suites, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort+, and Main Cabin experiences. Passengers can expect a premium onboard experience with amenities like lie-flat seats, extensive entertainment options via Delta Studio, onboard Wi-Fi, and complimentary mobile messaging. Partnering with Virgin Atlantic, Air France, and KLM, Delta aims to enhance connectivity with up to 187 weekly flights from London Heathrow to various U.S. destinations this winter, including Miami, Tampa, and Delta’s key hubs. For more details or to book flights, visit delta.com, reinforcing Delta’s commitment to enriching transatlantic travel options.

1st Annual Rocktoberfest is Coming to Orlando - A Fusion of Rock Music and Oktoberfest

Central Florida Fair & WJRR present the 1st Annual Rocktoberfest, a fusion of rock music and Oktoberfest vibes, unfolding over two days at the Central Florida Fairgrounds on October 25th and 26th. The festival will feature multiple stages with performances from top rock tribute bands alongside traditional Bavarian music. Experience the true Oktoberfest atmosphere with a wide selection of craft beers and authentic German food, and explore local vendors offering handmade goods, unique merch, and delicious culinary treats. The 1st Annual Rocktoberfest is set to feature live music, entertainment, German beer, German food, vendor village, and VIP experiences. A variety of ticket options are available including single day, and multi day tickets, plus VIP options. For more information and to book tickets, which are on sale now, click here.

Agave Azul Cocina Mexicana to Open NAYA Comida + Barrita in Maitland

Agave Azul Cocina Mexicana is expanding its culinary footprint with the upcoming launch of NAYA Comida + Barrita in Maitland. The local, family-owned restaurant chain is bringing a new concept inspired by Riviera Nayarit’s pacific coast and lush rainforest. NAYA Comida + Barrita will focus on three key elements: Wood Fire, Nixtamal, and Mezcal, offering a bespoke menu of contemporary regional Mexican cuisine and agave-forward cocktails. The restaurant will be located inside the new 65,000-square-foot Trelago Market commercial center on Maitland Boulevard, featuring a stylish interior and a spacious outdoor patio area. Established in 1998, Agave Azul Cocina Mexicana is known for its vibrant atmosphere and flavorful menu blending traditional and modern Mexican culinary influences throughout Central Florida.

Gaylord Palms Resort Orlando Shines Bright with Summer Fun

This summer, Gaylord Palms Resort Orlando is the place to be with a dazzling array of activities and events. Highlighting the festivities is the all-new "Sounds of America: A Nighttime Spectacular," featuring over 200 colorful drones choreographed to an original musical score, lighting up the skies above on select nights including June 7th, June 14th, June 28th, and more through September 1st. Meanwhile, Cypress Springs Water Park hosts the "Sunshine Splash Bash" by day, complete with poolside games and animal encounters, and transforms into the neon-lit "Aqua Glow Pool Party" by night, where guests can enjoy glow merchandise and light-up cocktails. For a unique experience, guests can blend their own frozen cocktails at the Spin ‘n’ Blend Bicycle. Other adventures include the pirate-themed escape room, "The Pirate’s Treasure," and the augmented reality game "Wildlife Rescue." With so much to offer, including fine dining, spa treatments at Relâche Spa, and immersive wildlife encounters, Gaylord Palms promises an unforgettable summer escape for guests of all ages.

For more details and reservations, visit gaylordpalmsgetaway.com.

Orlando International Airport's Summer Expansion and Travel Tips

Orlando International Airport is gearing up for an exciting summer season with expanded global connectivity through new nonstop routes across North America, Europe, and the Caribbean, solidifying its status as a key hub for travelers. From thrilling skiing adventures in Chile to exploring vibrant cultures in destinations like Brazil, Canada, Mexico, and Spain, MCO offers a diverse array of summer getaways. To enhance passenger experience, MCO has launched the "Kickoff to Takeoff: Summer Travel Playbook," a digital campaign providing essential travel tips such as reserving parking, arriving early, using the MCO app, and accessing MCO Reserve services, ensuring smooth journeys through the airport during this busy season.

Utopia Of The Seas: Setting Sail from Port Canaveral

Royal Caribbean International has officially welcomed its latest marvel, Utopia of the Seas, gearing up for its highly anticipated debut from Port Canaveral this July. Following an impressive construction period at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, the ship was handed over amidst celebrations attended by over 1,400 crew members and workers. Utopia of the Seas promises to redefine short getaways with its innovative offerings, including 3- and 4-night cruises. Featuring more than 40 dining options, multiple pools, thrilling activities, and the allure of Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean ensures an unforgettable vacation experience. President and CEO Michael Bayley expressed excitement, highlighting Utopia's diverse attractions from Southern cuisine and live music to children's play areas and aquatic parks. For more details or booking information, visit royalcaribbean.com.

Portillo’s to Open 7th Florida Location in Waterford Lakes

Portillo’s, renowned for its Chicago-style street food, is expanding its footprint in Central Florida with a new restaurant opening at Waterford Lakes Town Center. This marks the chain’s 7th location in Florida, adding to its popular offerings such as Chicago-Style Hot Dogs, Famous Italian Beef Sandwiches, Char-Grilled Burgers, and Portillo’s Famous Chocolate Cake. Situated on Alafaya Trail, the new restaurant will feature Portillo’s signature diner-style design, including a spacious dining room, an outdoor patio, and a double-lane drive-thru for added convenience. Michael Osanloo, CEO of Portillo’s, expressed enthusiasm about expanding in Orlando, highlighting the community’s positive response to their Chicago street food. With plans for further growth across the Sunbelt region, Portillo’s continues to enhance its presence in Florida, catering to local tastes and preferences. For more details, visit Portillo’s website.

SeaWorld Orlando Sets Opening Date for Penguin Trek Coaster

SeaWorld Orlando has announced the opening date for its new attraction, Penguin Trek, set for July 7th with early access for passholders starting July 2nd. Replacing Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, the coaster is family-friendly, featuring snowmobile-style cars and accommodating riders from 42 to 77 inches tall. It includes two launches, reaches speeds of 43 mph over 3,000 feet of track through Antarctic scenes, and concludes at SeaWorld's penguin habitat. The launch coincides with SeaWorld's 60th anniversary festivities, which include other new attractions like the Antarctica Realm and Xceleration stunt show.