Orlando Unplugged: September News & Updates

September in Orlando brings a fresh lineup of exciting updates and developments. From vibrant new art installations and impressive tourism growth to fresh dining spots and key community improvements, this month is packed with highlights that showcase the dynamic spirit of The City Beautiful. Dive into our roundup to see what’s new in the city.

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

Orange County Announces Selected Artworks for Sculpture on the Lawn Series

The Orange County Arts and Cultural Affairs office has unveiled the winning artists for its 10th Annual Sculpture on the Lawn series. This year, four standout sculptures were selected from 136 entries, including “Drop” by John Bannon from Chicago, “Compostela” by Manuel Ferreiro Badia from Spain, “Blue Mulberry” by Lionel T. Dean from the UK, and “Abhaya” by Sonny Behan from Miami. These captivating pieces will be showcased in front of the Orange County Administration Center in Downtown Orlando starting January 2025 and will remain on display through January 2026, offering a unique visual experience for residents and visitors alike.

Central Florida’s Tourism Industry Reaches Record $92.5 Billion Economic Impact in 2023

Central Florida’s travel and tourism sector achieved a historic milestone in 2023, with an unprecedented economic impact of $92.5 billion—a 5.6% increase from the previous year. Visitor spending soared to $58.5 billion, equating to over $160 million in daily expenditures, significantly bolstering the local economy and reducing the annual tax burden by $7,400 per household. The tourism industry supported 464,000 jobs across various sectors, with direct roles in hospitality and indirect roles spanning architecture, engineering, and transportation. As the region continues to attract millions of visitors, Central Florida’s economy remains robust, driven by its thriving tourism industry.

Creative City Project Returns with Fall Favorites at Leu Gardens

This fall, the Creative City Project brings back two beloved immersive experiences to Leu Gardens, with exciting new twists. From September 27th to October 31st, visitors can enjoy “Happy Frights,” a family-friendly adventure featuring 14 themed stops, including a whimsical swamp, a clown-filled carnival, and a hedge maze with giant plants. After dark, “Haunting Nights” offers a spookier experience for adults, complete with a roaming Bigfoot, a sexy minotaur, and a Dia de los Muertos celebration featuring live music and frozen margaritas. Tickets start at $27.90, promising an unforgettable autumn experience in Orlando. Tickets can be purchased, here.

Oviedo Park Pub Announces Two-Day Grand Opening Celebration Sept. 6th and 7th

Oviedo Park Pub is marking its grand reopening with a two-day celebration on September 6th and 7th. The revamped venue, now under Brianna Feldman’s ownership, will feature a full liquor bar, 15 new TVs, and a 140-inch projector. Festivities include one hour of complimentary Michelob Ultra drafts, specialty cocktails, and house wine from 5 to 6PM, along with live entertainment and happy hour specials. The pub allows guests to enjoy food from local micro-restaurants within its space. For more details, visit Oviedo Park Pub's website.

Team Market Group Unveils Plans for Thornton Park Graffiti Junktion Property

Team Market Group is set to introduce “June,” a new dining concept at the former Thornton Park Graffiti Junktion site by late 2024. The restaurant will blend Yucatan flavors with Asian influences, inspired by the coastal ambiance of Tulum. Guests can look forward to a range of dishes from raw seafood to grilled meats in a resort-style setting. For updates, visit Team Market Group's website.

Developer Proposes Food Hall for Mills 50 Post Office Building

A new proposal aims to transform the Mills 50 Post Office building into a 9,000-square-foot Asian food hall. The developer has requested fewer parking spaces and permission to sell alcohol near Hillcrest Elementary School. This project, which is under review by the City of Orlando’s Municipal Planning Board, seeks to create a fresh dining experience in the area.

City to Add Six New Swans to Lake Eola Flock

The Orlando City Council has approved funding for six new swans to replenish Lake Eola’s flock. The $19,500 investment will cover the purchase of Australian black-necked, trumpeter, and whooper swans, replacing those lost recently. This addition aims to maintain the park’s picturesque swan population.

OMA Announces Fall Exhibitions and Centennial Gala

The Orlando Museum of Art (OMA) is set for a vibrant fall season with a range of new exhibitions celebrating its centennial. The museum will present engaging shows designed for diverse audiences, reflecting its commitment to innovative and varied art. The season’s highlight is the 100 Years of Art gala on September 28th, featuring a special performance by the Orlando Philharmonic and The Orlando Opera, starting at 6PM with limited tickets available. For more details, visit omart.org.

New Dining Concept Coming to Mills 50

The former Armstrong Lock building in Mills 50 is set to transform into a new dining destination. Juan Rios, known for Agave Azul, is creating a live fire restaurant inspired by Yucatan cuisine. The venue will feature a Mayan Pib oven for traditional cooking and hand-made tortillas. Recent renderings show a 2,900 SF space with a covered patio to minimize noise and enhance dining. The project, still in early development, includes plans for fewer parking spots but additional bike parking and transportation subsidies for employees.

Tree Time Event at Mead Botanical Garden

Mead Botanical Garden will host "Tree Time – Green Up" on October 17th from 5:15-7:30PM. This event includes a tour of 21 desirable tree species for Florida yards and a panel discussion on urban greening. Attendees can enjoy beverages from Yaupon Brothers American Tea, wine, and lite bites. The tour, guided by volunteers, showcases the garden’s diverse tree collection, followed by a panel moderated by Dr. Leslie Poole with local experts discussing tree canopy challenges. For more information, click here.

InterContinental Orlando Set to Open on I-Drive

InterContinental Hotels & Resorts will introduce a new luxury hotel on International Drive in 2028, replacing the Wyndham Orlando Resort. The InterContinental Orlando will feature 700 guest rooms, including 84 suites, five dining options, a 15,000 SF spa, a pool, and extensive meeting space. Developed by Flag Luxury Group and Unicorp National Developments, the hotel aims to add a touch of luxury to Orlando’s vibrant scene. Learn more about this exciting development at IHG.com.

SunRail Expands with New DeLand Station Opening

August 12th set SunRail's expansion into a new station in DeLand. This $40 million project extends the rail line by 12.2 miles, connecting DeBary to DeLand, making it the northernmost stop in Central Florida. The station offers a convenient commute from Orlando for about $4, serving as a gateway to DeLand's attractions and providing access to Hontoon Island State Park and the local downtown area. Trains will run Monday through Friday, with services every half-hour in peak times. The station also connects with Amtrak and local transit options. This expansion follows Maitland's decision to withdraw from its SunRail contract, with DeLand's station set to boost regional connectivity and development.

Pretty Please Lounge Brings Tropical Vibes to Downtown Orlando

Pretty Please, a new jungle-themed lounge, has opened at 1 S. Orange Avenue, bringing a slice of paradise to downtown Orlando. Nestled between Thrive Cocktail Lounge and Taco Bell Cantina, this exotic retreat offers a unique atmosphere with lush greenery and soothing waterfall sounds. The menu features cold-pressed juices and creative cocktails like the Watermelon Paloma and spicy margaritas. Pretty Please is one of the last nightclubs approved before Orlando’s recent moratorium, offering a tropical escape in the heart of the city.

Melt Brownie Sweetens Downtown Maitland

Melt Brownie has opened a new store in Downtown Maitland at 110 N. Orlando Avenue, formerly the Sourdough Bread House. The bakery, known for its artisan brownies, officially launched on August 17th. Melt Brownie, which first opened in Winter Springs, now brings its delicious offerings to Maitland, with plans for a third location in Orlando. The shop features a variety of brownies, including classics, topped brownies, and mini versions, with flavors rotating weekly. Popular varieties include Caramel Turtle Cheesecake and Raspberry Cheesecake. For more information, visit Melt Brownie.

Corkcicle and KFC Collaborate on Unique Drinkware Collection

Corkcicle and KFC have teamed up to launch a limited-edition drinkware collection inspired by the iconic KFC bucket. The collection includes a bucket cooler and tumblers, featuring Corkcicle's signature insulation technology and KFC’s branding. Available in KFC stores and online starting August 1st, this collaboration offers fans a stylish and functional way to enjoy their favorite beverages while showcasing their love for KFC.

Parramore’s “Triple Nipple” Warehouse Available for Lease

The distinctive “triple nipple” warehouse at 617 W. Central Boulevard in Parramore is back on the market for lease. Previously home to the pop-up Yard Bar, the 16,215 SF space was acquired in 2019 by Lamont Garber with plans to convert it into a retail or brewery space. However, a $100,000 impact fee halted those plans. Now, Garber is offering the space for lease at $16.50 per square foot, likely for storage use. The property, with its iconic design, remains a prominent feature of the Parramore area. For more details, click here.

Red Bull Double or Nothing Returns to Orlando

Red Bull’s Double or Nothing wakeboarding competition is set to make waves in Orlando again on September 7th. Held at Lake Ivanhoe, this event promises thrilling performances from wakeboard legends, including Parks Bonifay, who created the event in 2004. Spectators can enjoy the action for free from Gaston Edwards Park, with the competition running from 9AM to 4PM. This year’s event follows the world’s first triple flip and continues to push the boundaries of wakeboarding. For more information, visit Red Bull’s event page.

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse in Concert at Dr. Phillips Center

On September 7th, Dr. Phillips Center will host “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” in concert at the Walt Disney Theater. This special event features a live performance of the film’s award-winning score by an ensemble of musicians, alongside a screening of the movie on a massive HD screen. The show includes a percussionist, electronic instrumentalists, and a DJ. There will be two showings, a matinee at 2PM and an evening performance at 7PM. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased here.

Rosetta Bakery Opens First Central Florida Location

Rosetta Bakery, a renowned Miami Beach establishment, is opening its first Central Florida location at The Mall at Millenia. Known for its fresh Italian pastries and artisan breads, the new bakery will be situated within the Orangeries Café. The bakery’s unique “live menu” concept allows customers to view the baking process through a glass wall. While the opening date is yet to be announced, fans can look forward to a variety of Italian treats, including croissants, bombolones, focaccia, and gourmet pizzas. Learn more at Rosetta Bakery’s website, here.

Orange County to Eliminate $424 Million in Medical Debt

Orange County has approved a groundbreaking plan to wipe out approximately $424 million in medical debt for over 150,000 residents. The initiative, voted in favor by the county commission, will use $4.5 million from federal American Rescue Plan funds to partner with Undue Medical Debt, a nonprofit specializing in debt relief. The program aims to alleviate financial burdens from medical expenses, impacting many who struggle with high debt. Local advocates emphasize the plan’s importance in improving community health and financial stability. For more details, visit Undue Medical Debt.

102 JAMZ Returns to Orlando Airwaves

102 JAMZ is back on the airwaves, rebranded from FM 101.9. Known for its throwback hits, the station relaunches with a nostalgic mix of classic tracks from artists like 2Pac, Beyoncé, and Eminem. Originally broadcast under this name from 1988 to 2014, 102 JAMZ aims to rekindle its iconic status with 10,000 consecutive throwback hits. Led by Brand Manager Miguel ‘Mijo’ Irizarry, formerly of Miami’s Power 96, the station promises a unique listening experience for Orlando’s music enthusiasts.

Repairs Underway for Lake Eola’s Chinese Ting Pagoda

The Chinese Ting at Lake Eola, a notable gift from Orlando’s sister city Guilin in China, is undergoing essential repairs. Built in Shanghai and assembled in Orlando three decades ago, the pagoda sustained damage in 2017 when a massive branch fell onto it. Although the deck was quickly repaired, the roof repairs have been delayed due to insurance and contractor issues. Scaffolding is now in place, and the Mayor’s office expects the repairs to be completed in 2-3 weeks. Visitors are asked to avoid the construction area for safety while the work is ongoing.

Massive Land Annexation Proposal by Mormon Church for Orlando

Farmland Reserve, Inc., an investment arm of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, is proposing to annex 52,450 acres of its Deseret Ranch property into Orlando. This initiative aims to establish a cohesive planning framework for the land’s development over the next 70 years. The annexation is intended to streamline land management and promote smart growth while conserving natural resources. Currently used for agriculture, timber, cattle, and solar energy, the land will benefit from unified municipal oversight, avoiding fragmented planning and supporting long-term development goals.

Orlando International Airport Launches New MCO Rewards Program

Orlando International Airport (MCO) has launched MCO Rewards, a new loyalty program offering perks for spending at the airport. Managed by GlidePathCX, the free program allows customers and employees to earn rewards such as airline miles, gift cards, and cash-back by linking their credit or debit cards. Enrollment is straightforward through mcorewards.com, where users can sign up, link their cards, and start earning points on dining, shopping, and parking. The program aims to enhance the customer experience and provide valuable insights for future improvements at the airport.

Exciting Church Street Revamp to Boost Downtown Orlando

Church Street in Downtown Orlando is poised for a major makeover to become a “Festival Street,” designed to boost local business activities and enhance mobility. The City Council has approved a series of improvements to transform the section of Church Street between the SunRail station and Garland Avenue. This redevelopment will include enhanced landscaping, the removal of curbs, and the ability for occasional street closures for events. The project will complement The Canopy, a new urban park expected to begin construction early next year, creating a vibrant, flexible space for community events.

Wild Florida Welcomes Rare Albino Alligator Hatchling

Wild Florida is thrilled to announce the hatching of a rare albino alligator at its Gator Park. This successful hatching marks the third time the park, known for its unique albino alligator breeding program, has welcomed such a creature. The baby alligator was born after a meticulous 60-day incubation period and will be introduced to the public after a month of maturation. In the meantime, visitors can see the parents, Snowflake and Blizzard, and participate in the Albino Gator encounter, a unique experience at Wild Florida, which also offers discounted rates for Florida residents.

New 36-Unit Townhome Development Planned for Hourglass District

A developer is proposing a new 36-unit townhome project in the Hourglass District of Orlando, covering nearly two acres. The project, under the names East West Place LLC and FL Acquisition LLC, involves annexing several parcels from the county to the city. The plan includes a central stormwater pond surrounded by landscaping and pedestrian pathways to enhance the area’s appeal.

Florida Vouchers Still Cover Disney World Passes for Homeschoolers

Florida’s Step Up For Students has confirmed that state-funded vouchers can still be used to purchase theme park passes, including those for Disney World, Sea World, Universal, and Legoland. The 2024-2025 guide for education vouchers allows purchases for various educational and enrichment items despite proposed legislative changes that sought to limit spending to core educational materials. Families can receive reimbursements for theme park admissions if they provide a statement of educational benefit, ensuring that diverse learning opportunities, including educational trips to theme parks, remain accessible.