If you’ve been following the magic here at Flamingo in Fantasyland (your Orlando local guide!), you know that International Drive (I-Drive) is the heartbeat of Orlando’s tourist district. But even for seasoned locals, there is one spot that is currently undergoing massive changes that you cannot ignore: Pointe Orlando.
Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated night out, a family-friendly afternoon, or the latest celebrity-backed lounge, the “new” Pointe Orlando is quickly becoming the ultimate alternative to the theme park crowds. Here is your ultimate guide to the dining, nightlife, and entertainment taking over the district.
Looking for more ideas outside the gates? Check out our list of the Best Things to Do in Orlando Besides Theme Parks!
What’s New at Pointe Orlando: The “Live!” Era & Beyond
The biggest buzz at the Pointe right now is the grand opening of Live! at the Pointe Orlando. This 73,000-square-foot dining and entertainment district has completely revitalized the area with a “block party” atmosphere.
1. Celebrity-Backed Lounges
- Still Lounge by Dre and Snoop: This is the ultimate cool-kid hideaway. Backed by legends Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, it focuses on premium “Still G.I.N.” cocktails in a moody, high-end hip-hop setting. If you love discovering the best secret bars in Orlando, this needs to be next on your list.
- Palm Tree Club (by DJ Kygo): Bringing an “endless summer” feel to I-Drive, this two-story venue features a coastal restaurant downstairs and a high-energy rooftop lounge with incredible views of the Orlando skyline.
Love a unique drink vibe? You’ll want to see our list of Orlando’s Speakeasies!
2. High-Energy Dining & Nightlife
- Taffer’s Tavern: Bar Rescue fans, this is for you. Jon Taffer’s first Florida outpost uses “kitchen of the future” tech to ensure every short rib and cocktail is perfectly consistent.
- Kavas Tacos + Tequila: From the team behind Taverna Opa, Kavas brings modern Mexican vibes, tableside guacamole, and a massive tequila selection.
- Dick’s Last Resort: Infamous for its sarcastic, rowdy service and comfort food.
- Sports & Social and PBR Cowboy Bar: A sports fan’s dream with a 25-foot LED wall, paired with the iconic PBR mechanical bull right next door.
- Shark Bar: A neon-lit retro sanctuary playing the best hits of the 80s, 90s, and 2000s.
3. Interactive Entertainment
- Activate: Step into a real-life video game. This active gaming facility challenges you to jump, climb, and dodge lasers in rooms where the “floor is lava.”
- Sandbox VR: The most immersive VR experience on the planet. With haptic vests, you actually feel the action in worlds like Rebel Moon or Deadwood Valley.
Looking Ahead: What’s Coming in 2026
The roadmap for 2026 is looking sweet—literally. The Pointe is transitioning from a dining hub to a full-blown world-class attraction destination.
- Museum of Ice Cream: This is the one we are most excited about! The world-famous Museum of Ice Cream is bringing its pink-hued, sprinkle-filled wonderland to the Pointe. Construction is already well underway on this massive two-story location. Expect multi-sensory exhibits, unlimited ice cream treats, and the iconic sprinkle pool. It is guaranteed to be the #1 Instagram spot in Orlando for 2026.
- The Great American Game Show: Ever wanted to be a contestant? This new interactive attraction allows you and your friends to compete in a high-tech, televised-style game show environment. It’s the perfect group activity for families or corporate retreats looking for things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.
- Zukka Sushi & Juan Valdez: Global flavors continue to arrive with premium Colombian coffee and innovative Japanese rolls slated for the 2025/2026 transition.
- The I-Drive Transit Revolution: By Summer 2026, dedicated bus lanes will be completed, making it easier to zip between the Convention Center and the Pointe without the legendary I-Drive traffic.
Classic Staples: The Icons of I-Drive
Even with all the new additions, these spots remain essential for any Pointe Orlando visit:
- Main Event Entertainment: Much more than just a bowling alley, this massive complex features state-of-the-art lanes, gravity ropes, laser tag, and a massive arcade. It’s the ultimate rainy-day fallback.
- Regal Cinemas & IMAX: Catch the latest blockbusters on the massive IMAX screen or experience the 4DX theater, where your seat moves and you feel the wind and rain from the movie. If you’re staying near I-Drive for the new parks, don’t miss our Ultimate Guide to Epic Universe!
- Funny Bone Comedy Club: Funny Bone Comedy Club & dinner theater. This 21+ club brings stand-up from big names to rising talent.
- WonderWorks: The famous “upside-down building” remains a top-tier family attraction with 100+ hands-on exhibits.
- Taverna Opa: Famous for belly dancing on tables and wood-fired lamb chops. It’s a Greek party that never goes out of style.
- Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar: Step into Old Havana with stunning architecture, open-air vibes, and the best mojitos in town.
- The Pub: Voted the “Best Fish & Chips in the U.S.,” this British-inspired spot is a favorite of this Orlando local guide!
- Rodizio Grill: An authentic Brazilian Steakhouse (Churrascaria) with rotisserie-grilled meats.
Tips for Visiting Pointe Orlando
- Parking Validation: Many of the “Live!” venues, Main Event, and the Regal cinema offer parking validation. Don’t forget to ask your server or the ticket counter!
- Social Media Moments: Head to The Hampton Social for their “Rosé All Day” neon sign or JoJo’s ShakeBAR for a massive “Biggie Shake” that will blow up your Instagram feed.
- The Vibe Shift: The Pointe is great for families by day, but after 9:00 PM, the energy shifts to a premier nightlife destination.
Planning a trip to Orlando? Keep following Flamingo in Fantasyland for the latest updates on I-Drive, theme park secrets, and hidden gems in the City Beautiful!
Thanks for reading!
