Before you scoff at the idea of going downtown sober, think twice. You can still enjoy the delicious drinks of some of the most exclusive bars in Orlando, at no expense to your liver.
Whether you are being a responsible driver (as everyone should be) or you're a rare case and allergic to alcohol, all you have to do is ask the bartender to make a virgin signature cocktail! Here is a list to get you started on your own mocktail bar crawl, which is a bit classier than a regular bar crawl.
Simply start at number 1 in the north and work your way south to number 6. You'll be able to say the only thing that went south that night was your movement, while your drinking friends will probably say their night went south for less appealing reasons.
Disclaimer: you must still be 21+ to enter these venues.
1. The Courtesy
Prided in being Orlando's first craft cocktail bar, you can't miss out on this classic and classy bar. It is located on Orange Avenue in the heart of downtown, just north of Saddle Up All-American Bar.
2. The Woods
Your next stop is a cozy upstairs setting also on Orange Avenue, themed as the name suggests. The great thing about this place is that the menu and drink themes change every month. Rest assured, you can always count on something fresh and tasty here since the bartenders have quite the variety of flavors to work with.
3. Bauhaus
Head south down Orange and turn left onto Pine Street. Go back in time 100 years at Bauhaus, where the rustic feel will have you saying, "George, fetch me my Model T!" by the end of the night. Okay, maybe you won't be saying that, but you will be talking about how unique the drinks are.
4. Hanson's Shoe Repair
Go even further back in time at Hanson's Shoe Repair, where you can take a break from the bar crawl to get your shoes shined. Just kidding, there is way more to Hanson's, which is hidden away above Bauhaus (oops, secret is out!). Just make sure you "SPEAK EASILY" to them over the phone in the afternoon to ensure your entry that night.
5. Joysticks
Keep heading east on pine street to Joysticks (take a left when you leave Hanson's/Bauhaus). NO ONE should live their lives without experiencing this retro arcade bar/lounge. It is a place of nostalgia overload, with several free arcade games and lounges themed as your favorite movies and toys from the 80s. They also provide live music and karaoke, and for crying out loud, they have EDIBLE GLITTER to work into their drinks.
6. Treehouse
When you exit Joysticks, you'll cross the street and find Treehouse. It is connected to the Attic Nightclub, but you can find it's designated entrance around the corner on Magnolia Avenue. It's a great spot for adults reminisce on the simple times of playing outside in an relaxed, intimate setting.
The themes in these bars are awesome enough to make you forget that you're not drinking alcohol. Still, the fantastic bartenders really help make the experience so welcoming. They are also great atmospheres to catch up with friends and meet new people. What are your favorite places downtown? Please feel free to share your expanded list with me!
