Located in Seminole County, Altamonte Springs (Spanish for “high hill”) is the perfect place to spend time with friends and family if you’re hoping to get away from tourist-packed Orlando. Their exciting, monthly events and beautiful, natural parks reflect the duality of this environmentally-conscious city that is sure to provide you with both entertainment as well as much-needed relaxation. Altamonte Springs is also home to Florida’s biggest Fourth of July celebration which brings over 100,000 people from all over Florida which is only one of the many events you should be sure to catch the next time you visit. While you’re sure to never tire of the bustling activities of Altamonte Springs, it’s also a great place because of its sense of tight-knit community and its charming, wholesome environment. 

 

Our Fav Restaurants in Altamonte Springs

  1. Broadway Ristorante & Pizzeria Altamonte

For those looking for a filling bite to eat, Broadway Ristorante & Pizzeria Altamonte is the place to go. Founded in the 1990s, Broadway Ristorante & Pizzeria Altamonte has continued its tradition of excellence into its second generation. Bring your friends or family for a cozy neighborhood atmosphere and old-fashioned slow dining. Broadway Ristorante & Pizzeria Altamonte boasts on their official website that they use only the best ingredients for their homemade pasta, calzones, and salads. Their pizzas are hand-tossed and baked in a brick oven for that perfect, authentic New York City taste. 

  1. Mad Crab Seafood & Wings

Mad Crab Seafood & Wings boasts fresh, delicious seafood that’s prepared daily as well as affordable prices for everyone. This family-owned restaurant is perfect for when you’re craving crab legs, shrimp, or fish. Not into seafood? Not a problem! Try their wings which are equally as yummy- it’s only $18.95 for 20 pieces. Mad Crab Seafood & Wings also offers a variety of sauces for every taste-bud- favorites include the “mad sauce” which has a slight kick as well as “mad crab savory”- a delicious butter based sauce. 

  1. Tibby's New Orleans Kitchen | Altamonte Springs

Tibby's New Orleans Kitchen | Altamonte Springs is the go-to place for anyone craving soul food. With the artsy vibe of New Orleans, Tibby's New Orleans Kitchen | Altamonte Springs has vibrant decor and food that aims to feed the soul. Appetizers include fried pickle slices, gator bites served with the famous remoulade sauce, and boudin rolls. Kids are sure to love this restaurant too with a special menu for children that are 12 & under which includes fried shrimp and chicken fingers for only $5.75! Once you’re full of all the appetizers and main dishes, the desserts are a must-have. Tibby's New Orleans Kitchen | Altamonte Springs famous beignets and homemade bread pudding will be the perfect end to an amazing meal. 

  1. Keller's Bar-B-Q Altamonte Springs

H.A. “Andy” Keller founded Keller's Bar-B-Q Altamonte Springs in the 1950s and his traditional recipes and cooking techniques are used in the kitchen even today. The secret sauce recipe, handed down for generations, which is used to baste the meat will keep your beef, pork, or turkey soft and delicious. Their lunch specials, offered every day, are affordable and lasts until 5 pm- lunch includes a smaller-sized platter served with garlic bread and your choice of any three sides! 

  1. Crepevine

Crepevine serves delicious crepes served fresh every day with a variety of fillings that include fresh fruit and Nutella if you’re in the mood for something sweet or cheese and your choice of meat for something savory. Overwhelmed with all the choices? Go for The Wobbles, Crepevine most popular crepe, that has turkey, chicken, mushrooms, Cajun remoulade, and cheese. If you’re feeling a drink, mimosas are only $3!

 

Our Fav Nightlife Destinations in Altamonte Springs

  1. Luke's Kitchen and Bar

Luke's Kitchen and Bar is the place to go when you want to impress a date or indulge in a nice restaurant for some delicious food and drinks. Their Happy Hour is from Mondays to Fridays 4-6 pm with an assortment of cocktails for $7. Want a bite to eat while drinking? Try one of their appetizers or even spend a little money on their amazing 3-course menu for a reasonable $35. 

  1. Shotski's Food and Drink

With a varied music selection, Shotski's Food and Drink draws a crowd of diverse people looking to have some fun. “People are so friendly here and the atmosphere is buzzing with good vibes,” one review of Shotski's Food and Drink raves. This small but exciting bar also has the best drink prices in town. Happy Hour is from 12:00 p.m to 7:00 p.m so that’s the best time to drop by and take advantage of the affordable drinks and enjoyable atmosphere. 

  1. Cheers

Cheers always has a full liquor bar, a spacious bar deck, pool tables, dartboards, and anything else you’ll need for a busy night with your friends. The best day to go to Cheers is Saturday as that’s when they have their weekly karaoke nights. Bring your friends or members of your family at the end of the week and get ready to belt out your favorite songs with a full crowd. 

  1. Friendly Confines | Altamonte Springs

Located next to Barnes & Noble and behind Bahama Breeze | Altamonte Springs, Friendly Confines | Altamonte Springs is a sports bar, restaurant, and memorabilia store all in one place. Every day of the week is packed with a special event: Cubbie Claws Monday, Trivia Tuesdays, Wine & DJ Wednesdays, Burger & $1 Beer Thursdays, Live Music Fridays, and DJ & Steak Saturdays! Happy Hour is every day from 11 a.m to 7 p.m and 11 p.m to 2 a.m where they have specials on their popular margaritas and other mixed drinks. They also sell unique collectibles for virtually any sport so if you’re looking for signed baseballs or jerseys, this is the place for you. 

  1. Kiwi's Pub & Grill

Like Friendly Confines, Kiwi's Pub & Grill is another popular option if you want to go to a sports bar. Kiwi's Pub & Grill has 32 TVs and subscriptions to the NFL, NHL, and MLB as well as pool tables, pinball games, and a jukebox for those not into sports. They also don’t skimp on their drinks -- imported, craft, and domestic beers are offered on their menu along with a fully stocked liquor bar. They are open from 10 a.m to 2 a.m every day with delicious and reasonably priced weekday specials which includes $2 beef tacos on Thursdays. 

 

Our Fav Destinations for Things to Do in Altamonte Springs

  1. Semoran Skateway

Family-owned and operated since 1978, Semoran Skateway is a “safe haven in the community”, according to one review. Some people might think roller skating is an outdated activity but pay a visit to Semoran Skateway and your mind might be changed by its timeless atmosphere and fun, neon lights. They offer public and private sessions as well as classes weekly. Don’t miss out on their monthly derby nights!

  1. Petrified Forest

Petrified Forest is another place to check out in Altamonte Springs for a unique experience with your friends. Voted one of the top “must-see” haunted houses in Florida by Scare Factor’s 2019 voter poll, this attraction hosts three terrifying trails that’ll leave you ‘petrified’ as its name suggests. “Best haunt I’ve been to in many years...can’t wait for next year!” one satisfied goer reviewed -- an opportunity to experience Petrified Forest is limited so be sure to check out their tickets before they all sell out!

  1. Cranes Roost Park

Cranes Roost Park surrounds Cranes Roost Lake with multiple benches and one-mile walkway. Along with the park where you can get in touch with nature, Cranes Roost Park boasts an impressive European-style plaza and the Eddie Rose Amphitheater which has a cool floating stage. A stroll in this park is perfect when you want to listen to music and find some relaxation. But don’t be mistaken! This park is also full of exciting activities like annual music events hosted along with their beautiful choreographed fountain shows. 

  1. Airport Lanes

Who doesn’t love bowling? Airport Lanes isn’t just a bowling alley, though! They offer a packed arcade, 40 bowling lanes, and a sports bar. Host social events here or take a visit with a couple of your friends for an exciting night out. “Sunday Funday” is the perfect way to end your weekend with games of bowling for only $3.09 and $3 arcade cards. Feeling like you need something fun to do on a normally dreary Monday night? “Monday Mayhem” at Airport Lanes has unlimited bowling per person for $12.89 -- an amazing deal! Their classic fries, wings, and ice-cold beer is another must-have while you’re bowling. 

  1. Lake Concord Park North

Lake Concord Park North is a 9 acre park that is home to Casselberry Jazz Concerts and the Casselberry Art House -- the artistic and cultural center of the city for sure. Lake Concord Park North offers a variety of amenities including an interactive water-play area, a boardwalk, a sculpture garden, and an abundance of Florida native plants. Take a leisurely stroll with your partner or family surrounded by the beautiful green flora of this park. 

 
For more on Altamonte Springs, return to 407area, your local guide to Orlando! 
 
Image courtesy of Flickr.