Orlando Standard

Lights, camera — action! It’s time for your photo-op at some of the most photogenic, “Instagrammable” locations throughout Orlando (Andrew Spear’s Red Bull: Little Saigon mural in the Mills 50 district pictured).

Trying to get that perfect Instagram photo? We’ve all been there. Luckily, Orlando is bursting with countless opportunities to achieve exactly that. From lush, natural backdrops to inquisitive, artsy ones — Orlando has a knack for them all. Here are seven local favorites that are sure to impress family, friends and followers alike the next time you come to town. And don’t forget to follow us at @VisitOrlando while you’re at it!

Discover: Orlando Murals

MILLS 50 DISTRICT

@whitehysteria

Calling all artists and art enthusiasts! Mills 50, adjacent to downtown Orlando, has the most murals of any neighborhood in Orlando. Every street you cross, every corner you turn, nearly every step you take — you will see a work of art. Some people let the art speak for itself while others get in on the fun and pose near it. Whichever route you choose, we are certain that your photos will be their very own works of art.

Discover: Reasons to Visit Mills 50

@floydsorlando

There is no cost of admission to the Mills 50 District. While this can be a walkable excursion, some people do choose to drive from mural to mural. We suggest visiting during the day to best capture the artwork. We also recommend arriving hungry, as Mills 50 boasts exceptional dining and nightlife that includes Orlando’s highest concentration of MICHELIN Guide restaurants. Various parking options are available, both free and paid.

LAKE NONA SCULPTURE GARDEN

@simon.villa.a

The innovative community of Lake Nona, located less than 15 minutes from Orlando International Airport (MCO), is recognized for its futuristic take on modern society. From driverless vehicles to the high-tech Lake Nona Wave Hotel, people from all over flock to bear witness. The Lake Nona Sculpture Garden is revolutionary in its own right, and it absolutely translates to the camera. Fifty thousand square feet of world-renowned sculptures surrounded by Florida’s iconic flora and fauna — now that is definitely feed-worthy.

Discover: Reasons to Visit Lake Nona

@payton_marchele

There is no cost of admission to the Lake Nona Sculpture Garden. We suggest visiting during the day to fully capture the art, but plenty of ambient lighting is provided in the evening as well. You will also find a free parking garage nearby, along with Boxi Park and a ton of great restaurants that include the MICHELIN Guide Recommended BACÁN.

HANNIBAL SQUARE

@_baileysophia

Located in the heart of quaint, storybook-esque Winter Park, about 30 minutes north of our main tourism districts, historic Hannibal Square is often the go-to photo stop for Orlando locals. Think Italian-inspired architecture with a dash of nature. If you want your Instagram feed to feel warm, inviting, charmed — Hannibal Square may just be the place for you and your camera.

Discover: Reasons to Visit Winter Park

@acallephotography

There is no cost of admission to Hannibal Square or the Hannibal Square Heritage Center, where you can learn about the area’s importance to African American history. We suggest visiting during the week, early morning, for the highest likelihood of capturing photos without any unwanted action in the background. Various parking lots and garages are scattered around the area (both free and paid), as well as on-street parking. Winter Park also has some of Central Florida’s best shopping and dining, including several MICHELIN Guide and James Beard Award honorees.

LAKE EOLA PARK

#orlando #orlandoflorida #home #citygirls …

@msdivaglamour

Majestic trees. Calm waters. The downtown Orlando skyline surrounding you. This is what a photo session at Lake Eola Park guarantees. We simply could not go without including this staple on our list. Whether it be at night (hello city lights!) or during the day (hello sunny skies!), your camera will have no option but to capture the magic. If you’re extra lucky, the resident swans might just photo-bomb and take your already amazing photos to the next level.

Discover: Reasons to Visit Downtown Orlando

@jctorrech

There is no cost of admission to Lake Eola Park; it is open every day of the week from 6 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. Various parking lots and garages are scattered around the area (both free and paid), as well as on-street parking. Stop by any of downtown’s excellent eateries for a bite to eat, and add the Orange County Regional History Center and Wells’Built Museum of African American History and Culture to the itinerary for a full day of local color.

PLANT STREET

I used to only visit Orlando for theme parks (as some of these old photos will tell), but now that I’m older, I visit for the city (and still, theme parks).

Orlando has some great restaurants, museums, concert venues and overall vibes that make for great memories. So yes, I will be going to Orlando “again” and I’m takin andywashurr with me!

@itsmichellelaine

Situated just 20 minutes west of Orlando, Winter Garden’s Plant Street has a rich history; its neat architecture and “small town” vibe are photography gold. While there are countless picture-perfect spots all around Plant Street, a fan-favorite is Winter Garden’s iconic Clock Tower. Lined by beautiful trees and thriving grasses, this Clock Tower is only missing one crucial thing: you!

Discover: Reasons to Visit Winter Garden

@brunaeleuterio

There is no cost of admission to Plant Street. We suggest going during the week, early morning. Various parking lots and a free parking garage can be found nearby. You can also grab bites and brews at Plant St. Market, home to Crooked Can Brewing Co., among other bespoke eateries in the area.

THE WHEEL AT ICON PARK  ®

@tayannesteve

Deemed the “brightest beacon in the Orlando sky,” The Wheel at ICON Park   ®remains a sight for sore eyes. Visitors from all over the world, and Orlando natives alike, gravitate to this 400-foot-tall unicorn, part of the International Drive Entertainment District (aka I-Drive). From its 64,000 color-changing LEDs to its prolific views, trust us when we say: This is so not your average observation wheel. Many people choose to stand in front of The Wheel from ground-level and get a cool upwards shot, while others choose to take their photos while riding The Wheel. Both options are sure to bring a pop of life to any Instagram.

Discover: Reasons to Visit ICON Park

Rides start at $27.49 per person, so my best advice is to get the Play Pass, so you can experience everything and get the most bang for your buck! Have you ever experienced the Wheel? 

ICON Park 

Wyndham International Drive

Orlando Vacation 

The Wheel 

While there is no cost to enter ICON Park, there is a ticket fee to ride The Wheel. Tickets may be purchased in-person or on their website. The Wheel is open every day starting at noon. We suggest going as early as possible, as ICON Park does get busier in the evening time. Free self-service and paid valet parking options are available on site, along with ample dining and nightlife choices and other can’t-miss attractions.

SOUTHERN HILL FARMS

@mamaof5style

True to its name, Southern Hill Farms is surrounded by sweeping hills. Get a taste of farm life for the day and be sure to document the whole thing while you’re at it. Located “off a little dirt road” in Clermont, close to Walt Disney World   ®Resort, Southern Hill Farms is sure to meet all your aesthetic needs. From the endless rows of sunflowers (when in season) to the 120 acres of farmland, there is a unique photo-op for everyone. The cherry on top? They also have various curated photo backdrops scattered throughout the property.

@conexaopelomundo

The family-owned and operated u-pick farm requires you to purchase tickets (available on their website) to enter the premises. Their busiest times are the weekends; they are closed Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. We suggest going during the week and arriving at their opening time. Free parking is available on site.

Original source can be found here.