As native New Yorkers, my family and I had previously never heard of Altamonte Springs, Florida. However, when we started looking to buy a condominium near Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, our realtor showed us several properties in this charming city. Altamonte Springs is a versatile neighborhood, offering something for everyone. It features beautiful parks, shopping, family-friendly activities, seasonal events, and much more.
Visiting Altamonte Springs: At a Glance
Where Is Altamonte Springs?
Altamonte Springs is located in Seminole County, right off I-4 Exit 92, just 10 miles north of downtown Orlando. Its proximity to I-4 makes it convenient for visiting the area’s theme parks and other major attractions.
Enjoy the sunset at Cranes Roost Park every night! Photo by Luke Stefanchik
Top Things To Do In Altamonte Springs, FL
This 45-acre park surrounding Cranes Roost Lake is the crown jewel of Altamonte Springs. The lake is encircled by a one-mile walking path with benches and covered seating areas, perfect for a leisurely stroll. My kids love seeing the ducks, ibis, turtles, fish and other wildlife in the park. Cranes Roost also features a choreographed fountain show, a 62-foot tower and the Eddie Rose Amphitheater. With weekly, monthly and annual events there is always something happening at Cranes Roost Park.
Indulge the family with some retail therapy at this sprawling market place, one of my kids’ favorite destinations. The mall features Macy’s, family-friendly stores (i.e. Barnes & Noble, FYE, The Children’s Place), food court, and table service restaurants.
There are movies for the whole family at this massive, 18-screen theater. Special features include discount matinees, open caption (on-screen subtitles), sensory friendly films, XL premium 4K laser projection laser (including an IMAX screen), and MacGuffins, an in-theater bar.
This multi-use facility offers year-round activities and programs. It features a pool facility with zero-depth entry play area, a therapeutic pool with water wheelchair access, activity room, playground, and bocce, basketball, pickleball, and tennis courts.
Enjoy a round of mini golf at Congo River! The game is set amidst waterfalls, caves, wooden bridges and tropical foliage. After the game enjoy arcade games and feed the live alligators on-site.
Look out for wildlife at Lake Lotus Park! Photo courtesy City of Altamonte Springs
As the official lake nature preserve of Altamonte Springs, Lake Lotus Park features 120 acres of woods and wetlands teeming with wildlife. Other amenities include picnic areas, barbecue grills, an enclosed pavilion available for rental, education center, and playgrounds
Home to Crane’s Roost Park, Uptown Altamonte is the city’s premier business and residential district which offers brand name hotels, upscale shopping, numerous casual and fine dining restaurants, offices, and more. Uptown Altamonte hosts many seasonal events, such as the Summer Block Party and Light Up the Holidays.
In addition to 40 bowling lanes, Bowlero offers an arcade, pro shop, sports bar, and cozy lounge area. Once you work up an appetite try the "pizza and pitcher combo," featuring cheese or pepperoni pizza and a pitcher of ice-cold margarita, beer, or soda.
The Altamonte Springs Children’s Library offers a wide variety of books, resources and programs for every family member, including board books, graphic novels, manga, books in Spanish, computer learning, LEGO sets, parenting resource materials, and much more.
Treat your family to a day of outdoor fun at this 1.5-acre picnic/recreation area with access to Lake Orienta. This picturesque lake offers 141 acres of water access for fishing, skiing, and other water sports.
Compete for bragging rights and glory at Activate. Photo courtesy Activate
Enjoy high-tech fun at this interactive gaming facility that combines physical activity, mental challenges, and cutting-edge technology. Activate offers a wide range of dynamic games that react in real time, ensuring an adrenaline-filled adventure for everyone.
Located on the west side of Altamonte Springs, Merrill Park offers lighted softball fields, beach volleyball courts, and batting tunnels, as well as an exercise trail and playground. In between games enjoy a meal at one of the picnic pavilions.
Get around Altamonte Springs with ease by jumping on a CraneRIDES vehicle. Photo courtesy City of Altamonte Springs
CraneRIDES is a small fleet of electric, autonomous shuttles that travel on a fixed route, stopping at popular shopping and recreation destinations. An attendant is on board each shuttle to answer questions, resolve technical issues, and drive the vehicle if necessary.
Indulge your family’s artistic side at these fun and relaxed art classes. Each session has a fun theme, such as Marvel Avengers: Doomsday and Nightmare Before Christmas, and includes music, custom mocktails, and all the supplies you need.
Urban Air is a great spot to get out energy, especially when the heat or storms take over a Florida afternoon.
This indoor adventure park welcomes kids (and adults) of all shapes and sizes with adrenaline-fueled challenges.
This supervised camp for teens, ages 13 to 15, offers a diverse range of recreational and vocational activities. Teens enjoy sports, games, swimming, and participate in job shadowing, resume building, interview training, and other personal growth activities.
Restaurants for Families in Altamonte Springs
In addition to offering some of the best pizza in Altamonte Springs, Nick’s is known for delicious New York original beef patties. As native New Yorkers, my family and I can vouch for their authenticity and flavor.
Family love the tasty entrees, like the chimichanga plate, at Fiesta Cancun. Photo courtesy Fiesta Cancun
Treat your family to a flavorful feast of Mexican delights at Fiesta Cancun FL. The restaurant offers a colorful setting, friendly service, and traditional favorites such as tacos, nachos, enchiladas, chimichanga and Mexican street corn.
My family enjoys entertainment with our dinner, so Kobe is one of our favorite restaurants. Teppanyaki selections are prepared fresh at your table by chefs with more than a little showmanship, offering crowd-pleasing bits as the onion volcano and egg roll.
If your family loves Greek food like mine, head to the Fat Lamb for delicious Mediterranean classics, like falafel, lamb gyros, and chicken kebabs.
Conveniently located next to Congo River Golf, this perennial kids' favorite is the perfect place to celebrate a birthday or enjoy a rainy afternoon.
Popular Altamonte Springs Events
Summer starts with the ultimate city-wide block party.
The holidays are so much better at Altamonte Springs' event, with fireworks, train rides, live music, and of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Red Hot & Boom just happened for America's 250th birthday! Photo courtesy City of Altamonte Springs
Celebrate America's birthday at Altamonte's famed Independence Day party, Red Hot & Boom
Kids have a wonderful time dressing up in costume, eating candy, and dancing to live music.
Where to Stay in Altamonte Springs with Kids
Conveniently located one block from I-4 and within walking distance of restaurants, SpringHill Suites is the perfect family destination. A free buffet and hot breakfast is offered every morning. Families can enjoy the indoor pool and whirlpool.
This family-oriented destination has amenities like outdoor pool, daily hot breakfast, free WiFi and parking, and a fitness center featuring a Peloton® Bike.
Those looking for an elevated stay should check out this Hilton property. It offers a sit-down restaurant, lounge serving cocktails and light fare, and room service. There’s also an outdoor pool and whirlpool, fitness center, and spa.
Tips for Visiting Altamonte Springs