Reasons Why Meeting Planners Love Central Florida

• The number of diverse venues. According to Visit Orlando, the area welcomed more than 7.9 million business travelers in 2025—and the Central Florida region is perfectly primed to meet their varied needs. Venues of all sizes across diverse environments are available, from luxury properties such as Evermore Orlando Resort to boutique properties in serene natural areas designed to accommodate smaller groups and budgets.

Read More: Notes From the Road: Orlando & The Bahamas

• Hidden gems that surprise and delight. For planners eager to infuse adventure into the itinerary, Central Florida offers unforgettable experiences. Just north of Orlando, crystal-clear freshwater springs Wekiva Springs and Rock Springs boast low entry prices. Video game fans will love International Drive’s Vault 5421, a Fallout and Mad Max-themed speakeasy inside a comic book store that serves up sci-fi-inspired cocktails. For those hosting events between Tampa and Orlando, Lakeland’s hip food hall and craft brewery, The Joinery, can be rented out and offers dishes from seven eateries, ranging from tightly packed sushi burritos to a standard yet delectable cheeseburger.
• Activities that showcase old Florida history. While Central Florida has recently seen a surge in development, remnants of its history remain visible. Orlando’s Gatorland provides a campy, delightfully fun experience involving alligator encounters, capybara meet-and-greets, shows and animal feeding sessions. In Clermont, The Showcase of Citrus honors Florida’s rich orange grove heritage, dating back to when commercial citrus farming expanded near St. Augustine and Tampa in the 1800s. Groups can enjoy monster truck tours, animal safaris and pick fresh citrus to take home. In Lake Wales, Bok Tower Gardens offers a meditative and historic experience. Established in 1929, the lush National Historic Landmark is best known for its Singing Tower, a unique structure built by Dutch landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr.
• It’s a growing foodie destination. Central Florida is a thriving culinary hub with more than 60 Michelin-recognized restaurants. For upscale events, the Michelin-recommended Capa Steakhouse & Bar at Four Seasons Resort Orlando specializes in Spanish-inspired dishes and is conveniently located near Walt Disney World. For intimate groups seeking a memorable dining experience in downtown Winter Park, OMO by Jont has one Michelin star and offers a tasting menu featuring modern, experimental cuisine.

Places to Meet & Stay

Tucked in a quiet corner of downtown Orlando, The Wellborn offers an intimate setting with 20 suites and a garden event space that accommodates up to 250 guests. On-site catering and bar service simplify planning, while nearby restaurants and shops encourage post-event networking and exploration.

8,000 sq. ft. of event space; 5 guest rooms

Set amid Central Florida’s natural landscape in Bowling Green, Streamsong Resort is designed for wellness-focused retreats and distraction-free gatherings. The property features 13 indoor meeting spaces for 10 to 600 attendees, plus four restaurants and an award-winning golf course for bonus group experiences.

20,000 sq. ft. of meeting space; 216 guest rooms

Housed in a restored 1924 building, The Terrace Hotel Lakeland pairs historic character with modern meeting amenities. The property features proximity to downtown attractions, including Hollis Garden and Joker Marchant Stadium—where the Detroit Tigers participate in spring training.

3,183 sq. ft. of event space; 88 guest rooms

Lake Nona Wave Hotel combines convenience with elevated design through flexible indoor and outdoor venues, a signature ballroom and tech-enabled meeting spaces. Less than 15 minutes from Orlando International Airport (MCO), the property offers easy access while maintaining a distinct atmosphere.

59,976 sq. ft. of meeting space; 491 guest rooms

This article appears in the July/August 2026 issue. You can subscribe to the magazine here.