As I type this, Hurricane Milton is bearing down on the Orlando area. Us locals have spent the past few days panic-buying hurricane snacks (and in my case, digging into them early), laughing at hurricane memes on Facebook, and nervously watching the weather forecast. Things feel anything but normal right now.
But I’m determined to have some normalcy. And nothing says “aggressively normal” like the suburbs. I’d already started this post about Altamonte Springs, perhaps the most suburban Orlando suburb, so let’s talk about it.
The city of Altamonte Springs is located about 20 minutes northeast of Orlando. It’s mostly known for its long stretch of retail along 436. You can’t drive 2 feet without hitting a chain store or restaurant.
However, Altamonte Springs has more to offer. It includes a charming local park, picturesque walking trails, a great comic shop, and the only dollar theater in the area. And it’s home to a local legend—but more on that later.
Here are 10 things to do in Altamonte Springs.
1. Shop at the Altamonte Mall.
Let’s start with the obvious. Located just off I-4, the Altamonte Mall is the centerpiece of Altamonte Springs. You can’t miss it as you’re driving down 436.
The Altamonte Mall has the typical mall things: department stores such as Macy’s and Dillard’s, fast-fashion stores such as H&M and Forever 21, a Hot Topic, a play area for the kids, and a food court. And for all you bookworms, there’s even a Barnes & Noble.
Want to catch a movie? Head over to the AMC Theatre. Hungry? Dine at one of the nearby restaurants, such as Bahama Breeze or Seasons 52.
Honestly, the Altamonte Mall is pretty decent as malls go. And unlike many malls across the country, it actually gets a lot of visitors. Yay for not having a sad, dying mall.
Address: 451 E. Altamonte Drive, Suite 2165, Altamonte Springs FL, 32701
2. Take a stroll around Cranes Roost Park.
Located behind the Altamonte Mall, Cranes Roost Park is a local hotspot that plays host to numerous events.
It seems like everyone in Altamonte Springs hangs out here—families, couples, dog walkers, Pokemon Go enthusiasts, joggers, you name it. The park stays open late, so there’s usually someone around.
Taking a walk around Cranes Roost is a great way to unwind. The walking path offers serene lake views, and there are plenty of benches to sit back and relax. You might even spot some turtles in the water.
Throughout the year, Cranes Roost also hosts all sorts of special events. You can attend concerts, free festivals, and craft shows here. During the holidays, you can enjoy Christmas light displays, concerts, and movie nights.
The park’s location makes it easy to hop from one place to another. You can take a walk or shuttle ride to the nearby AMC Theatre to watch a movie. Or you can walk over to Uptown Altamonte for a bite to eat.
Address: 274 Cranes Roost Boulevard, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701
3. Play a round at Congo River Golf.
Congo River Golf is one of those places I don’t frequent often, but when I visit, I always enjoy it.
This minigolf course features 18 holes themed with rocks, waterfalls, and caves. As someone who’s not exactly a pro golfer, I find the course challenging but still enjoyable. It’s kept clean and well-maintained, adding to the experience.
Note: This course has a lot of stairs. So if anyone in your group has mobility issues, this isn’t the best choice.
There’s more to do on the property, including a small arcade and a laser maze. And don’t miss the baby gator pit by the entrance. You can even feed them for an extra fee.
Address: 531 W. State Road 436, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714
4. Hike at Lake Lotus Park.
Lake Lotus Park is a hidden gem, boasting 120 acres of woods and wetlands. This nature preserve is a great place to unwind and connect with nature.
During my recent visit, the boardwalk and one of the trails were closed. Hurricane Ian caused major damage to these parts of the park back in 2022. Repairs are ongoing, but there’s no set date for when these areas will reopen.
However, I was able to explore another trail within the park, and I enjoyed it. The forest canopy provided some much-needed shade. I spotted some beautiful plants along the way.
Just be aware, the terrain is a bit uneven, with plenty of small tree stumps along the path. So wear sturdy shoes and watch your step.
Note: Pets are not permitted in the park, so leave Fido at home if you’re going to visit.
Address: 1153 Lake Lotus Park Road, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714
5. Explore the Seminole Wekiva Trail.
If you’re up for a longer hike, check out the Seminole Wekiva Trail. This paved trail stretches nearly 14 miles through Altamonte Springs. It’s great for hiking, biking, skating, or running.
The Seminole Wekiva Trail follows the path of the former Orange Belt Railway, which was once the longest railway in the United States. The trail is part of the Florida Coast-to-Coast Trail. A section of the trail is also part of the Florida National Scenic Trail.
You can join the Seminole Wekiva Trail at one of three trailheads in Altamonte Springs:
- The San Sebastian trailhead on 436
- Sanlando Park
- The Seminole County Softball Complex
You can also find trailheads in Longwood and Lake Mary.
6. Run wild at Urban Air Adventure Park.
Maybe you have kids who are bouncing off the walls. Or maybe you’re feeling restless yourself. If that’s the case, consider visiting the Urban Air Adventure Park in Uptown Altamonte.
This indoor park offers a variety of activities, such as trampolines, a ropes course, climbing walls, a warrior course, and bumper cars. It’s popular with families, and you can even host birthday parties there.
7. Shop the local antique malls.
When it comes to antique malls, Orlando neighborhoods like Ivanhoe Village and Audubon Park usually steal the spotlight. But Altamonte Springs has a few good options located within minutes of each other:
- Wirewood Market (1102 E. Altamonte Drive)
- Adjectives Market (1200 E. Altamonte Drive)
- The Mercantile (1260 E. Altamonte Drive)
These three antique malls are packed with items from dozens of vintage dealers. You can also find some vintage-style modern pieces there. You never know what treasures you’ll stumble upon.
8. Geek out at The Collective.
If you like to curl up with a comic book or get competitive with board games, The Collective is the place for you.
This comic shop can be found in the shopping plaza across from Congo River Golf. The Collective sells comic books, card games, board games, miniature figurines, and other merch to satisfy a variety of geeky pursuits.
The shop is bright, clean, and well-organized, with plenty of seating for your gaming group. There’s even a separate room off to the side where you can chill out with your laptop.
Address: 520 W. State Road 436, Suite 1172, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714
9. Watch a movie at the dollar theater.
Edit: The Picture Show is closed as of January 30, 2025.
Missed that big summer blockbuster when it first played in theaters? Need to entertain a bunch of kids? Looking for a cheap date night activity? The Picture Show is here to save the day!
It’s rare to find anything these days that costs just $2, especially a trip to the movies. However, at this dollar theater in Altamonte Springs, you can catch second-run movies for only $1.75 per ticket. And on Tuesday nights, tickets are only $1.
Don’t expect a luxurious experience at The Picture Show. The theater doesn’t have the cushiest seats and the fanciest sound system in town. But it’s comfortable enough, and you can’t beat the ticket price.
Address: 130 E. Altamonte Drive, Suite 1200, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701
10. Behold the Eyesore on I-4.
I couldn’t write about Altamonte Springs without mentioning its legendary local landmark.
This unique structure, known as the Majesty Building, stands alongside I-4 in Altamonte Springs. It was funded by a religious broadcaster who began construction in 2001. The building was supposed to be completed in 2003, but that date got pushed back again and again (and again).
Over 20 years after construction began, the Majesty Building still stands unfinished. It was eventually nicknamed the Eyesore on I-4 due to its roadside location and odd appearance.
(I think it looks like a giant monster sinking its fangs into a brick. But that building is like a Rorschach test, so you might have your own thoughts on the matter.)
The Eyesore on I-4 is famous among Central Floridians as a monstrosity, a symbol of perseverance, and the subject of many memes. It’s remarkably hurricane-proof, able to withstand whatever gets thrown its way. It is truly a local legend.
Conclusion: 10 Things to Do In Altamonte Springs
Altamonte Springs is usually recognized for its shopping. But there’s more to the city than just chain stores. There are other entertainment options to explore around town.
With seasonal events such as A Petrified Forest, you have even more options. This scare trail attraction is only open a few weeks a year, but it’s one of the most popular haunts in Central Florida.
Altamonte Springs is also a short drive from Winter Park and Maitland, where you can find even more fun activities. And up the road in Apopka, nature experiences such as Wekiwa Springs Park and Rock Springs Park await.
As you pass through town, be sure to say hello to the Eyesore on I-4. I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s still standing tall.