Ava McDonnell
After working hard, everyone looks forward to an evening of good times and even better drinks. And in Central Florida there is no lack of local bars and restaurants that can turn a long day into an opportunity for relaxation and community. From chic, newly opened spots to beloved, long-standing favorites, there’s a happy hour experience for every taste and budget. Here’s our list of bars spread across the region:
This new contemporary cocktail bar and grill has a modern ambiance perfect for a casual evening out or late-night bite. They focus on rebuilding classic drinks and blending flavors of Southeast Asia and Mediterranean in their menu. They have generous happy hours, with special cocktails (including “Sake Sangria” for $8) and select food dishes at a discount. The kitchen also stays open late, making it a great option for those who crave a good meal on those late nights.
Happy Hour: Mondays all day; Sunday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 5 PM – 6:30 PM & 11PM – close.
Location: Mills 50 District, Orlando
If you’re looking for a lively, sports-loving environment, Tom’s Watch is the perfect place. Recently added to I-Drive, this bar features a plethora of massive screens, it’s the ideal spot to catch a game or fight. During happy hour, you can get $5 pints, $5 wine, and $5 wells, plus $7 select appetizers and $12 select entrees with signature cocktails being $10. One can expect a community atmosphere and a wide selection of beers, cocktails, and classic bar food to share with your party.
Happy Hour: Monday through Sunday from 3 PM – 6PM & 9 PM – close.
Location: International Drive, Orlando
ICON Park Bars (The Lawn Bar & Wheelhouse Bar)
Located in the popular ICON Park, both bars offer a fun, entertaining complex. The Lawn Bar is located on ICON’s spacious lawn, where kids can play and watch The Orlando Eye and other outdoor entertainment. If you’re looking to cool off, Wheelhouse Bar is located inside The Wheelhouse Food Hall where you can purchase discounted cocktails like Mojitos, Sangrias, Tequila Sunrises, and Tropical Mangos for $8, along with Jell-O shots (3 for $6 or 5 for $8) at both bars. They are the ideal option to take a break after or in between experiencing the park’s attractions.
Happy Hour: All day Monday – Wednesday; Thursday – Sunday from 5 PM – 7 PM.
Location: ICON Park, Orlando
This recently opened “neighborhood rum bar” has already made a name for itself, earning a Michelin Bib Gourmand designation. During happy hour, customers can indulge in $10 cocktails and $8 highballs and sippers, alongside a rotating selection of small plates (fishdip, shrimp skewers, etc.) ranging from $2 to $10 and half off oysters. Otto’s High Dive is great for those seeking expertly crafted drinks and unique, flavorful bites in a cozy, low-key setting.
Happy Hour: Weekdays from 4 PM – 6 PM
Location: The Milk District, Orlando
Bringing a touch of Mediterranean luxury to Winter Park, AVA offers a refined “Golden Hour” experience. While specific drink discounts change often, their happy hour features a “Taste of the Cyclades,” a curated assortment of five chef-selected bites for $20, paired with handcrafted drinks. Whether you’re looking for a celebration or a casual night out, AVA is worth trying for its elegant atmosphere and delectable dishes from Keftedes Meatballs to Black Truffle Pizza.
Happy Hour: “Golden Hour” Sunday through Thursday from 5 PM – 6 PM (exclusively at the bar).
Location: Winter Park
The new Marlin Bar by Tommy Bahama creates a place for an island escape. This casual yet stylish spot offers daily happy hour deals on a selection of their signature island-inspired cocktails (like the Baja Margarita, Mai Tai, and Coconut Cloud Martini for $11), wines for $9, and select beers for $6, plus $8 well drinks. If you enjoy unwinding and live music, this is the spot you’re looking for.
Happy Hour: Daily from 3 PM – 6 PM.
Location: Winter Park
Proper is Orlando’s premier craft cocktail and vinyl hi-fi bar, offering a mid-century atmosphere. Their happy hour provides half off any of their crafted drinks, perfect for a pre-dinner cocktail or fun evening out. Every night, Propers plays a curated all-genre playlist from vintage soul to contemporary beats, making every experience different.
Happy Hour: Wednesday – Saturday from 5 PM – 7 PM
Location: Downtown Orlando (112 S Orange Ave)
This sleek, Thai-inspired speakeasy creates an intimate and inviting vibe. Noir has quickly become known for its creative cocktails with Thai twists, featuring fresh herbs and unexpected spices. Some signature drinks include the Adam & Eve (Gin, Baileys, matcha, and coconut rolls) or the Divine Presence (Jasmine-infused whiskey, coconut Jasmine, Demerara Syrup, and Gold Leaf). During happy hour, you can enjoy select classic cocktails for just $10 making it an excellent time to try their unique mixed drinks.
Happy Hour: Nightly from 5 PM – 7 PM
Location: Ivanhoe Village (behind a hidden wall inside Talay restaurant, Orlando)
The Vintage Speakeasy sends customers to a bygone era with a classic speakeasy ambiance. There is bar seating, lounge seating, table seating, and a dance floor with live jazz music playing all night. They tend to focus on crafted cocktails (like a cucumber and strawberry infused Hendricks, fresh espresso with Kahlua, etc.) and select bites (like Charcuterie, Blackened Brie, and flatbreads). During happy hour they have $8 cocktails, $6 well drinks, $2 off beers, and discounted select wines. Their extensive happy hour makes it easy to enjoy a step back in time without breaking the bank.
Happy Hour: Tuesday – Saturday from 3 PM – 8 PM; Latin Night on Thursdays from 6 PM – 9 PM
Location: Hunter’s Creek, Orlando
Whether you’re exploring the latest additions in town or returning to a trusted favorite, Central Florida’s happy hour offerings cannot be beat. With each location having a unique environment and menu, there is something for everyone. So go ahead, try different bars, find your perfect spot, and raise a glass.
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