Years ago, someone told me that “Maitland is the place people drive through to get to other parts of Orlando.” Looking back, I don’t think this was quite accurate. Sure, this town north of Orlando has its fair share of office buildings and strip malls, like any other suburb in the area. But there are actually quite a few cool things to do in Maitland.
Maitland is one of the oldest suburbs in Central Florida. It boasts several museums, beautiful parks and lakes, and a nationally recognized movie theater that hosts an epic annual film festival. Even as it moves forward, the city maintains a strong sense of history.
Keep reading to discover 14 of the best things to do in Maitland!
1. Audubon Center for Birds of Prey
Want to see some wildlife without paying Animal Kingdom prices? Visit the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey. This bird sanctuary rescues and cares for injured birds of prey so that they can be released back into the wild.
Located next to beautiful Lake Sybelia, the Audubon Center is home to eagles, hawks, owls, and more. You can stroll around the grounds and learn all about these fascinating birds. You might even see a staff member taking them out of their enclosures.
For nature lovers, the Audubon Center is a great way to learn about local conservation efforts. Florida has one of the largest bald eagle populations in the country. The Audubon Center monitors bald eagle nests to help protect them. The center promotes bird-friendly plants and water conservation.
Address: 1101 Audubon Way, Maitland, FL 32751
2. Enzian Theater
The Enzian Theater is a beloved local spot that any film buff needs to check out. It’s not only one of the best things to do in Maitland, but one of the best things in the Orlando area.
This non-profit theater offers a unique moviegoing experience. They show independent, foreign, cult, and kids movies that you won’t find elsewhere in town. Sit back, order some lunch or dinner from the menu, and enjoy the show.
The Enzian is also home to the annual Florida Film Festival. This world-famous event celebrates the best in independent and foreign cinema. Known as “the film festival with a heart,” the Florida Film Festival features celebrity guests and an eclectic film lineup.
TIP: If you’re looking for a free date night idea, grab a blanket and attend their Popcorn Flicks in the Park event.
Address: 1300 S. Orlando Avenue, Maitland, FL 32751
3. Maitland Art Center
The Maitland Art Center is a true hidden gem. Located on a quiet road, it’s one of three museums on the Art and History Museums of Maitland Main Campus. Paying the entry fee grants you access to all three museums.
The Maitland Art Center is a National Historic Landmark. It started in 1937 as an art colony founded by artist and architect André Smith. Now, the museum showcases Smith’s artwork and other exhibits.
But the Maitland Art Center isn’t limited to the building. Across the street, you’ll find a serene outdoor garden with ornate carved stonework. The garden is one of the few remaining examples of Mayan Revival architecture in the Southeastern U.S. It’s a must-see if you find yourself in Maitland.
Address: 231 W. Packwood Avenue, Maitland, FL
4. Maitland History Museum
The Maitland History Museum is the second museum on the Main Campus. It’s a small museum, but it’s packed with detail.
Maitland has an interesting history. Originally home to the Seminole Indians, the town was established as a fort in 1838 but never saw combat. It was named after a captain in the Seminole Wars who never actually visited here. As time went on, Maitland became involved in the citrus and tourism industries.
The museum traces Maitland’s major events. You can learn about the founding of the Florida Audubon Society in 1900, the establishment of nearby Eatonville, and author Zora Neale Hurston’s contributions to the area.
Address: 231 W. Packwood Avenue, Maitland, FL
5. Telephone Museum
One of the quirkiest things to do in Maitland is visit the Telephone Museum. Located behind the Maitland History Museum, it’s the third museum on the Main Campus.
Telephones actually played an important role in Maitland’s history. Back in the early 1900s, the son of a local grocer had the idea to install telephones in his top customers’ homes to make ordering easier. His smart business move led to the creation of the Winter Park Telephone Company, which served the area for many years.
At this museum, you can step into an old phone booth, see antique switchboards, and view a collection of retro phones. It’s a fun time capsule of old technology.
Address: 231 W. Packwood Avenue, Maitland, FL
6. Holocaust Memorial Resource & Education Center of Florida
The Holocaust Memorial Resource & Education Center of Florida started as a project by a local Holocaust survivor. It’s since become the first Holocaust museum in the Southeast.
The museum’s exhibits vividly depict the atrocities of the Holocaust. Visitors can walk through the events that led to the genocide of millions of Jews. They can also hear testimonials from survivors and liberators.
In addition, the Holocaust Memorial Resource & Education Center hosts special exhibits, community events, and teacher education programs. Admission to the museum is free.
Address: 851 N. Maitland Avenue, Maitland, FL 32751
7. Maitland Farmer’s Market
The Maitland Farmer’s Market takes place next to City Hall on Sundays from 9am-1pm. You’ll find a variety of vendors selling food, plants, crafts, and more. There’s also live music for entertainment. If you’re looking for free things to do in Maitland, this is a small, family-friendly event with a low-key vibe.
Address: 1776 Independence Lane, Maitland, FL 32751
8. Lake Lily Park
Lake Lily Park, located on 17-92 in downtown Maitland, is a great spot for a stroll. The park features a 1/2-mile pathway that loops around the lake. It’s one of the most relaxing things to do in Maitland.
If you want to unwind, there are benches and tables around the park. A gazebo overlooks the fountain in the middle of the lake. Despite its small size, the park is well-maintained and attractive.
The Waterhouse Residence Museum and Carpentry Shop Museum are also located on the park grounds. However, these museums are closed for renovations as of 2024.
Address: 701 Lake Lily Drive, Maitland, FL 32751
9. Maitland Community Park
Maitland Community Park is nestled in a quiet neighborhood off 17-92. The park spans 25 acres and offers a variety of amenities, including tennis courts and a tot lot.
One of the best features of Maitland Community Park is its trail system. Lined with trees for shade, the trails are ideal for hiking, biking, and dog-walking.
Address: 1400 Mayo Avenue, Maitland, FL 32751
10. Blackbird Comics and Coffee
Blackbird Comics and Coffee is one of my favorite things to do in Maitland. This comic shop and coffeehouse is a treasure trove of geeky goods.
Blackbird has a great selection of comic books, graphic novels, vinyl, board games, toys, and more. They also host fun events, such as Free Comic Book Day.
One unique thing about Blackbird is that you can rent board games to play in-store or at home. And if you get hungry during your gaming session, the shop offers sandwiches and an impressive coffee and tea menu. It’s the ultimate nerdy hangout spot.
TIP: Blackbird gets very busy around lunchtime, so visit earlier or later in the day if you want to get a seat.
Address: 500 E. Horatio Avenue, Maitland, FL 32751
11. Minnehaha Park
At first glance, Minnehaha Park seems like your basic suburban park. Tennis courts, playground, pavilions, check. Nothing exciting, right?
But there’s more to this park. Further in, you’ll find a peaceful boardwalk that winds through the wetlands and overlooks Lake Minnehaha.
And that’s not all. Elsewhere in the park, a pedestrian tunnel leads you under Horatio Avenue. From there, you can catch a glimpse of folks sailing past on the Winter Park Chain of Lakes.
The tunnel also provides access to Covered Bridge Park across the street. So you’re getting two parks in one, which is pretty sweet.
Address: 1001 E. Horatio Avenue, Maitland, FL 32751
12. Covered Bridge Park + Jim Houser Azalea Garden
I’m combining these two parks since they’re both small and located right next to each other. Both parks are situated in a neighborhood facing Horatio Avenue. Despite the traffic noise, both parks were peaceful on a Saturday morning.
You can access Covered Bridge Park through the Minnehaha Park pedestrian tunnel or from Jim Houser Azalea Garden. It’s a neatly landscaped space perfect for walking your dogs or relaxing on a bench.
During azalea season early in the year, Jim Houser Azalea Garden comes alive with vibrant colors. The 1.5-acre park was named after a former Maitland mayor. My friend who visited the park with me said it’s a great place to read a book, which I agree with.
Address: 700 and 701 Old Horatio Avenue, Maitland, FL 32751
13. Maitland Chocolate Factory
If you’ve just finished lunch at Kappy’s Subs, Mediterranean Street Food, or one of Maitland’s other restaurants, indulge in dessert at the family-owned Maitland Chocolate Factory.
This sweet little shop has all kinds of treats, from truffles to chocolate-covered Oreos. (I recommend the dark chocolate sea salt caramels.) They also do custom orders and ship gift baskets.
Address: 445 S. Orlando Avenue, Maitland, FL 32751
14. Orlando Ice Den
The Orlando Ice Den is technically located in Orlando. But it’s on Maitland Summit Boulevard, so it’s basically in Maitland.
This ice-skating rink offers public skating sessions and Learn to Skate classes. Don’t worry if you don’t have your own skates. You can rent them at the rink. Make sure to bundle up in a sweatshirt and long pants, because it’s ice cold in there.
Address: 8701 Maitland Summit Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32810
Conclusion: 14 of the Best Things to Do in Maitland, FL
Maitland is more than your typical Orlando suburb. It has a rich history and interesting places to explore. If you’re looking for things to do in Maitland, you can likely find something to suit your tastes.
The Enzian and the Maitland Art Center are notable cultural attractions. The parks and the Audubon Center offer a relaxing escape into nature. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Maitland is worth checking out.