Hidden Gems on International Drive You’ll Wish You Tried

International Drive — or “I-Drive” as the locals call it — is often seen as just tourist central. Giant wheel? Check. Chain restaurants? Absolutely. But dig a little deeper and you’ll find some seriously underrated spots that are well worth your time (and appetite).

Here are 5 hidden gems on I-Drive that might just surprise you…

Wheel at Icon Park 📸 Image Credit: © TTFB

1. Café Tu Tu Tango

🎨 Art, tapas, and entertainment collide.

This quirky, colourful restaurant looks like an artist’s studio — and that’s the point. It serves small plates with a creative flair and often hosts live painters and performers. It’s fun, different, and way more memorable than another chain meal.

Tip: Go with friends and try 4–5 dishes to share. The avocado hummus and shrimp skewers are standouts.

2. Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition

🚢 Yes, a Titanic museum — and it’s hauntingly fascinating.

This surprisingly moving experience offers guided tours with costumed actors, replica sets, and over 300 artifacts from the RMS Titanic. A great indoor activity for a rainy Orlando day.

Tip: You get a passenger name at entry. Find out if you “survived” at the end.

3. ICON Park’s Hidden Bars

🍹 Beyond the big wheel… are a few brilliant drinks.

Most people ride The Wheel and leave. But ICON Park hides some great low-key hangouts. The Wheelhouse Bar has decent cocktails with a view, and if you’re into speakeasy vibes, try Ole Red’s upstairs lounge or Tapa Toro’s late-night flamenco vibe.

Tip: Go in the evening for live music and lighter crowds.

4. Fun Spot America (But Do This...)

🎡 Yes it’s known — but there’s a hack.

Fun Spot might seem like a kids-only carnival at first glance, but there’s serious nostalgia charm. The go-karts are brilliant, the SkyCoaster is pure adrenaline, and best of all — parking is free.

Tip: Go at night. The park lights up, it’s cooler, and you’ll skip most queues.

5. Kings Dining & Entertainment

🎳 Upscale bowling meets gourmet bites.

Not your average bowling alley. Kings has retro-chic décor, surprisingly good food, and a great bar menu. It’s perfect for a low-pressure evening after the parks — or a rainy day escape.

Tip: Book a lane in advance if you’re going after 6PM on a weekend.

Bottom Line:I-Drive might have a touristy rep, but tucked between the souvenir shops and flashy signs are some genuinely fantastic experiences. Next time you’re in Orlando, skip the usual haunts and try one or two of these gems.

You might just start seeing I-Drive in a whole new light.