Let’s start with dates that involve fresh air, scenic beauty and a hint of adventure. These nature-inspired ideas are for you. Head to Wekiva Island, where you can kayak the calm waters or lounge in a riverside cabana. For a quieter escape, stroll through Leu Gardens, where meandering pathways lead to secret nooks perfect for a romantic photo op. If you’re up for a hike, head to the Disney Wilderness Preserve. There are three hikes of various lengths, ideal for couples looking to connect while spotting wildlife like turtles, herons and more.
The Disney Wilderness Preserve offers three hikes of various lengths. Photo by Roberto Gonzalez
Trails at Disney Wilderness Preserve:
• White Harden Trail: 0.5-mile short loop.
• Red Wilderness Trail: 2.5-mile loop which offers access to Lake Russell and a closer look at the preserve’s natural communities.
• Yellow Trail: 6-mile loop takes you through wetland and upland habitats.
Water lovers can make a splash at Florida’s famous natural springs. Rent a tube at Rock Springs in Kelly Park and float peacefully or kayak the river at Wekiwa Springs State Park. Want to elevate the experience? Rent a kayak or book a tour at King’s Landing. The crystal-clear fresh waters will blow you away. We booked a tour with King’s Landing and had the best time together celebrating my husband’s birthday. We saw otters and swam in clear shallow water. My husband impressed our small tour group by climbing up onto one of the trees over the water and diving off into a glorious cannonball.
For a nighttime adventure, book a bioluminescent kayaking tour at Indian River Lagoon, where every paddle stroke lights up the water like something out of a fairy tale. It’s a date night you’ll never forget.
Bok Tower Gardens is a sight to hear and behold. Photo by Roberto Gonzalez
Finally, one of the most beautiful places in the entire state of Florida is Bok Tower Gardens. When people ask me where to take day trip from Orlando, this is where I send them. Bok Tower Gardens is the scene of many of my own childhood memories, and now that my husband and I have a son of our own, we’ve already made lifelong memories here together.
Bok Tower Gardens is ideal in the winter because camellias and azaleas are in season, blossoming throughout the multi-acre gardens. Bok Tower itself is a beautiful sight to behold—and hear, thanks to the seasoned carillonneurs who perform the bells inside the tower at scheduled intervals each day. Your visit will be filled with romantic scenery and sounds.
Orlando Magazine’s Favorite Spots for Adventurous Couples
Image sourced from Instagram @orlandotreetrek
Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park
Test your teamwork with an exhilarating ropes course and zipline through the treetops. With varying difficulty levels, you can push each other’s limits or stick to an easier course for laughs and bonding. End your adventure with a sense of accomplishment and stories to share. orlandotreetrek.com
Skydive DeLand (Indoor Option: iFLY)
Take your date to new heights! Tandem skydiving is an adrenaline-packed activity that will leave you both feeling on top of the world. If jumping out of a plane sounds too intense, try iFLY Orlando’s indoor skydiving for a thrilling but safe experience. skydivedeland.com | iflyworld.com/orlando
ATV Adventures in Clermont with Revolution Off Road
Get down and dirty with an off-road ATV adventure. Traverse rugged terrain, splash through mud puddles, and enjoy the rush of tackling obstacles together. It’s a perfect blend of adrenaline and laughter for couples who love the outdoors. revolutionoffroad.com
Orlando Magazine’s Favorite Spots for Outdoorsy Lovebirds
Image sourced from Instagram @lake.louisa.state.park
Lake Louisa State Park
Rent kayaks, paddle through serene waterways and enjoy a picnic surrounded by Central Florida’s natural beauty. Pack your favorite snacks and a cozy blanket to make it an intimate escape. Don’t forget to catch the sunset over the lake for a picture-perfect ending to your day. lakelouisastatepark.com
Leu Gardens Moonlight Walk
Stroll hand-in-hand under the stars at this lush botanical garden in Orlando. Their moonlight strolls are scheduled during full moons, making it a uniquely enchanting experience. You can also explore their romantic rose garden during the day for an equally memorable date. leugardens.org
Wekiwa Springs Hike & Swim
Start your day with a hike through scenic trails, then cool off with a swim in the springs. Bring a blanket for a post-swim snuggle on the grass, surrounded by nature’s tranquility. floridastateparks.org
