Orlando Unplugged: June 2026 News & Updates

Orlando continues to move through the year with a strong mix of growth, creativity, and major development shaping communities across Central Florida. From Downtown Orlando and Winter Park to Orange County’s expanding corridors, this month’s stories highlight everything from new restaurant concepts and retail expansion to large-scale civic projects, public art installations, and real estate activity that reflects ongoing demand across the region. As the Orlando metro grows in population and national attention, the latest updates capture a city that is constantly evolving while still holding onto the character of its neighborhoods and identity.

Sinners Haunted House Coming to Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando

Universal Orlando is bringing the world of Sinners to Halloween Horror Nights this fall with a brand-new haunted house inspired by the Academy Award-winning supernatural horror film. Set inside the eerie Club Juke from the movie, the experience will immerse guests in a 1930s Mississippi Delta nightmare filled with vampires, live music, and intense scares pulled directly from the film’s storyline. As Halloween Horror Nights celebrates its 35th year, the addition of Sinners continues Orlando’s reputation as the top destination for immersive seasonal entertainment and next-level haunted attractions.

Thornton Park Calls on Local Artists for New Downtown Orlando Murals

Thornton Park District is searching for Central Florida artists to create three new murals along East Washington Street in Downtown Orlando. The public art project will transform the exterior wall of The Red Scarlet Salon with large-scale pieces inspired by local culture, nature, community, and creativity. Selected artists will each receive funding for their work as Orlando continues investing in murals and placemaking projects that add more character and visual identity to its neighborhoods. Applications can be submitted, here.

Paradox Steakhouse Planned for Former Blu on the Avenue Space in Winter Park

A mysterious new steakhouse concept called Paradox is preparing to open on Park Avenue in Winter Park, taking over the former Blu on the Avenue location. The upcoming restaurant is teasing a modern steakhouse experience centered around elevated dining, refined design, and a private members-only lounge, though many details remain under wraps. With hints of Michelin-level culinary influence and exclusive experiences, Paradox is already generating buzz as one of the newest additions to Winter Park’s evolving dining scene.

Historic Lubbe House Added to Florida Preservation Watch List

The historic Lubbe House near Lake Eola has officially landed on the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation’s annual “11 to Save” list, bringing statewide attention to the ongoing debate surrounding the property’s future. Built in 1930, the Mediterranean-style home sits at the center of Orlando’s planned Lake Eola Gateway project, which aims to transform one of Downtown’s most visible corners. While city leaders say the house will remain standing, preservation advocates continue pushing for stronger legal protections as discussions over restoration, reuse, and Downtown redevelopment move forward.

Jeff’s Bagel Run Launches Ice Cream Summer With Jeremiah’s Italian Ice Collaboration

Jeff’s Bagel Run is rolling out a new limited-time “Ice Cream Summer” menu featuring creative seasonal flavors and a collaboration with Florida favorite Jeremiah’s Italian Ice. The summer lineup introduces specialty cream cheeses inspired by popular Jeremiah’s flavors, along with returning drinks and new dessert-inspired beverages available through August. As local food brands continue leaning into playful seasonal experiences, the partnership adds another unique collaboration to Central Florida’s growing dining scene.

Pulse Memorial Update Reveals New Visitor Pavilion Design

The City of Orlando has released updated plans for the Pulse memorial project, offering a first detailed look at the proposed indoor Visitor Pavilion. The space is designed to preserve artifacts, share stories connected to the nightclub, and create an immersive environment for reflection and remembrance. While city officials say the pavilion will provide important historical context, the latest design has sparked renewed conversation among survivors and community members about how the tragedy should be memorialized moving forward.

Orlando Science Center’s New Dome Theater Officially Opens This June

The Orlando Science Center is unveiling its newly transformed dome theater this June, bringing upgraded planetarium shows, giant-screen films, and the return of laser light experiences to Loch Haven Park. The redesigned venue features advanced 8K laser projection, immersive surround sound, and modern seating as part of a major renovation funded through the center’s Unlock Science campaign. The reopening marks a major investment in Orlando’s educational and cultural attractions while reviving a longtime favorite for Central Florida audiences.

BarkHaven Expands Menu and Entertainment Offerings in Orlando

Orlando’s popular dog-friendly sports bar and social hangout, BarkHaven, is rolling out a refreshed human-focused menu featuring new favorites like cheeseburger quesadillas, patty melts, loaded chips, and protein bowls. Alongside the expanded food options, the venue is launching a weekly “Bites and Bevs” video series and continuing its full lineup of dog-friendly events, including DJ dog dance parties, trivia nights, agility days, and singles events. As BarkHaven continues evolving into both a neighborhood gathering spot and a canine-friendly destination, it blends food, entertainment, and community in one of Orlando’s most unique social spaces.

Audubon Park Hosts Neighborhood Music Festival Across Local Businesses

The Audubon Park Garden District recently turned into a walkable music experience with the Next Door Live! Music Fest, featuring local musicians performing across neighborhood venues including East End Market, Redlight Redlight Brewpub, and The Neighbors. The free, pet-friendly event encouraged guests to explore local shops while enjoying live performances, pop-up vendors, and community activities like a sticker scavenger hunt. With strong community turnout and support for local nonprofits, the festival highlighted Audubon Park’s role as one of Orlando’s most vibrant and creative districts.

Universal CityWalk Brings Back 600 Block Speakeasy Experience

Universal Orlando Resort has revived its 1920s-inspired 600 Block Speakeasy at CityWalk for a limited-time engagement through August 23rd, 2026. Hidden inside the Briar Suite above Pat O’Brien’s, the immersive experience transforms the space into a Prohibition-era hideaway complete with themed décor, live music, specialty cocktails, and secret entry mechanics. Designed as an exclusive 21-and-over experience, the speakeasy continues Universal’s push toward highly themed, story-driven nightlife experiences that blend entertainment, dining, and immersive storytelling.

First United Methodist Looks to Redevelop Downtown Campus, but Plans to Stay

The First United Methodist Church of Orlando is seeking a development partner for its longtime downtown campus at 142 E. Jackson Street, but the goal is not to leave the site. The church has issued a Request for Proposals for its full-block property near City Hall and the Dr. Phillips Center, which spans nearly two acres and includes multiple existing structures. While the property is being positioned for redevelopment, the church has made clear it intends to remain on site, requesting 20,000 to 40,000 square feet of future space within any new project. The RFP leaves the door open to mixed-use redevelopment options including housing, hospitality, institutional use, or a reduced church footprint as the congregation looks to modernize while maintaining its downtown presence.

AdventHealth Moves to Incorporate Additional Properties Into Health Village Plan

AdventHealth is moving forward with plans to formally incorporate seven additional properties into its Health Village campus north of Downtown Orlando. The parcels, totaling nearly three acres, already sit within the long-established Health Village boundary and are currently used for medical office purposes. The update is largely administrative, aligning existing holdings with the hospital’s long-term campus strategy rather than expanding into new territory. The request also includes a proposed pedestrian bridge over Dade Avenue to better connect major facilities, though final approvals and permitting are still pending future City Council review.

Windermere Lakefront Estate Hits Market for $27 Million

A sprawling lakefront estate in Windermere has been listed for $27 million, offering more than 11 acres of private waterfront living along Cypress Lake. The 22,000-plus-square-foot residence includes seven bedrooms, extensive entertaining spaces, and luxury amenities such as a theater, golf simulator, wine room, and resort-style pool with waterfall and slide. Positioned behind gated access with over 440 feet of lake frontage and direct access to the Butler Chain of Lakes, the property blends privacy with proximity to Orlando’s urban core. The estate also features a 10-car garage, guest wing, and expansive outdoor living areas designed for large-scale entertaining.

Waterford Lakes Town Center Adds New Wave of Retail and Dining Tenants

Waterford Lakes Town Center in East Orlando continues its expansion with several new national retailers and dining concepts set to open in the coming months. New additions include UNIQLO, which will bring its LifeWear apparel concept, [solidcore] fitness studio, Joe & The Juice, PopUp Bagels, and Total Wine & More. These openings add to a growing tenant mix that already includes recent arrivals like Fat Rosie’s Taco & Tequila Bar, CAVA, MINISO, and Mister O1 Extraordinary Pizza. The continued growth reflects strong demand for experiential retail and lifestyle-driven shopping destinations across East Orlando.

Chayote Closes in Winter Park Village, Set to Reopen as The Grove Bar + Kitchen

Chayote Barrio Kitchen has closed in Winter Park Village and will soon reopen as The Grove Bar + Kitchen under Chef Mario Pagán. The final day of service for Chayote was May 10th, with the new concept expected to open later this month. The Grove will continue under Pagán’s ownership but shift away from a strictly Latin-forward menu toward seasonal New American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced Florida ingredients. The updated concept will also emphasize a more flexible dining and cocktail experience designed for lunches, dinners, and private events. The change marks a new chapter for the space while maintaining ties to the chef’s culinary roots and his long history in Florida’s food scene.

HomeGoods Coming to Colonial Plaza Market Center in Former Big Lots Space

HomeGoods is moving into Colonial Plaza Market Center in East Orlando, taking over the former Big Lots space near Bumby Avenue. While a timeline has not been announced, signage is now in place confirming the upcoming store, which will join a retail lineup that includes Marshalls, Old Navy, Ulta, Hobby Lobby, Sprouts, and more. The space is currently vacant with no visible interior buildout underway, and HomeGoods has not yet listed an official opening date. The addition further expands TJX Companies’ footprint in Orlando’s retail landscape and continues the steady redevelopment of the Colonial Drive corridor.

Don Omar Announces Orlando Stop on “The Last World Tour” at Kia Center

Global reggaeton superstar Don Omar is bringing his “The Last World Tour” to Orlando’s Kia Center on October 3 as part of a 21-city international run. The tour celebrates more than two decades of hits that helped define the genre, including “Danza Kuduro,” “Dale Don Dale,” and “Bandoleros.” Known as one of the most influential voices in Latin music, Don Omar continues to build on a legacy that includes multiple major awards and global recognition. The Orlando stop is expected to be one of the most anticipated concerts of the fall, with tickets going on sale May 22nd.

Tijon Fragrance Lab Opens in Winter Park With Hands-On Custom Perfume Experience

Tijon Fragrance Lab has officially opened in Winter Park, offering guests a unique, hands-on experience where they can create their own custom perfumes and colognes. Located on South Orlando Avenue, the studio guides visitors through blending fragrance oils before bottling and labeling their own signature scent. The space operates as both a retail shop and interactive workshop, with multiple class options ranging from express sessions to in-depth fragrance courses. A grand opening celebration is scheduled for June 9th, marking the full launch of the new experiential concept in Central Florida.

Orlando Selected as Final Host City for Olympic Q-Series Ahead of LA28 Games

Orlando has been chosen as one of four global host cities for the Olympic Q-Series, the expanded qualification series leading up to the LA28 Olympic Games. The city will host the final stop of the international event from June 8–11th, 2028, joining Tokyo, Shanghai, and Montreal in the multi-city lineup. The competition will feature six sports including skateboarding, BMX freestyle, 3x3 basketball, beach volleyball, climbing, and flag football, with sport allocations to be confirmed at a later date. The event will serve as a key qualification pathway for athletes aiming to compete in LA28, bringing international attention to Central Florida. Local officials say the selection highlights Orlando’s growing role as a global destination for major sporting events.

Gene Leedy’s “Guest House” Mid-Century Modern Home Hits the Market in Winter Haven

A historic mid-century modern residence designed by architect Gene Leedy has hit the market in Winter Haven, offering a rare opportunity to own a piece of Florida’s architectural history. Known as “The Guest House,” the 1967 lakefront home sits along Lake Mirror and features three bedrooms, glass walls, and elevated living spaces designed to maximize waterfront views. The 3,800-plus-square-foot home includes standout features such as a glass atrium, vintage elevator, heated pool, and expansive balconies connected to nearly every room on the second floor. Originally built for educator Thelma Lynne Guest, the home reflects Leedy’s signature Sarasota School of Architecture style, blending modernist design with Florida’s natural landscape.