Things To Do
in Maitland
Maitland, Florida is a compact, tree-lined suburb north of downtown Orlando known for its quiet residential neighborhoods, lakes, and a small but lively cultural core around Lake Lily. The city blends historic buildings and art venues with parks, independent shops, and a popular weekend farmers’ market. Maitland is popular with families, professionals who commute to Orlando, and visitors who want a calmer base near the theme parks and city attractions.
Small museums, craft breweries, an independent cinema, and easy access to Central Florida’s parks make it a pleasant mix of suburban comfort and creative energy.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Maitland Historical Society to learn about the city's rich past. Stroll through the quaint streets of the historic district, admiring the stunning architecture of the buildings dating back to the 19th century. Stop by a local café for a delightful breakfast featuring homemade pastries and fresh coffee.
After lunch, head to the Maitland Art Center, where you can explore the unique Mayan-inspired architecture and a diverse collection of artworks. Spend some time in the tranquil gardens that surround the center, perfect for a leisurely walk or a quiet moment of reflection. Don't forget to visit the gift shop for unique local art pieces to take home.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a nearby restaurant featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. After dinner, consider attending a performance at the nearby Enzian Theater, where you can enjoy indie films in a cozy setting. Cap off the evening with a nightcap at a local bar, soaking in the charming atmosphere of Maitland.
Start your day with a refreshing walk or jog along the scenic trails of the Lake Lily Park, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and wildlife. Take a moment to enjoy the serene lake views and the vibrant flora that adorn the park. Grab a breakfast sandwich from a local deli to fuel your morning adventure.
Spend your afternoon exploring the expansive grounds of the Maitland Community Park, where you can enjoy activities like picnicking, frisbee, or simply relaxing under the shade of oak trees. Visit the nearby dog park if you're traveling with furry friends, and let them enjoy some playtime. For lunch, pack a picnic or visit a food truck for a tasty bite.
As evening approaches, unwind at the park with a sunset picnic, enjoying the beautiful colors reflecting on the water. Alternatively, venture to a local restaurant known for its outdoor seating and vibrant atmosphere. Engage in some stargazing afterward, as Maitland's low light pollution allows for a clearer view of the night sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-20 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-5 |
| 🚕Local taxi / short rideshare | $8-20 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $90-180 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $5-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Orlando attractions while offering a quieter, small-town feel
- Access to lakes, parks, and cultural venues like the Enzian and Maitland Art Center
- Friendly community with a strong local farmers’ market and independent businesses
- Limited late-night and high-end dining options compared with Orlando
- Hot, humid summers and hurricane season risks
- Depends on a car for many errands and trips outside the central village
Places to Visit in Maitland
Visit one of these nice places.
Picturesque lake with a boardwalk, gardens, sculptures, and a fountain — ideal for sunrise, sunset reflections, and capturing the town’s community events.
Historic architecture with colorful murals, arches, and unique details — great for architectural and cultural photography.
Quirky independent cinema and outdoor/indoor bar — atmospheric shots in the evening with neon signage and classic cinema vibes.
Clear springs, shaded trails, and natural landscapes perfect for wildlife, river, and nature photography, especially early morning.
Food in Maitland
Maitland Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Locally sourced grouper, snapper, and shrimp prepared grilled, blackened, or fried — look for seafood platters and fish tacos at local restaurants and gastropubs.
Must-Try!
Cuban and Latin-inspired dishes are common across Central Florida; try a pressed Cuban sandwich or ropa vieja at neighborhood cafes and Cuban bakeries in the region.
Shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and comfort-style sides are available at diners and Southern-style restaurants in and around Maitland.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market with local produce, baked goods, prepared foods, and artisan vendors — great for grabbing breakfast, coffee, or snacks and sampling seasonal produce.
Food trucks and weekend pop-ups appear around community events and parks, offering tacos, barbecue, and fusion street food — check local event calendars for schedules.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
People are generally polite and informal; a friendly greeting, saying please/thank you, and small talk are customary.
Many residential areas are quiet and private — avoid trespassing in neighborhoods and observe posted signs at parks and preserves.
Dress is casual for most situations; bring a light jacket for air-conditioned indoor spaces and smarter attire if dining at upscale restaurants.
Safety
Tipping in Maitland
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., tipping is customary: 15–20% of the pre-tax bill in restaurants for good service, $1–2 per drink at bars or $3–5 for table service, and round up or tip taxi/rideshare drivers and hotel staff. For exceptional service, tip more.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common. Small cash is useful for markets, tips, and some small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon and bring sun protection, lightweight clothing, and water. Hurricane season (June–November) peaks mid-August to October—follow forecasts and have flexible plans.
Temperatures gradually moderate, humidity decreases, and conditions are pleasant for outdoor activities; hurricane risk remains early in the season but typically declines by November.
Mild and comfortable with cool evenings; daytime temperatures are pleasant for walking and outdoor exploration — winter is a popular time for visitors from colder climates.
Warm and increasingly humid with abundant wildflowers and active outdoor events; comfortable for hiking, paddling, and festivals before the summer heat sets in.
Maitland at Night
Hiking in Maitland
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular state park north of Orlando with spring-fed swimming areas, multiple trail options for hiking and biking, and canoe/kayak access — great for nature lovers and families.
A multi-use trail suitable for walking, running, and cycling that connects parks and neighborhoods through shaded areas and alongside waterways.
A larger conservation area east of Maitland offering varied trails, river paddling on the Econlockhatchee River, and opportunities to spot wildlife in a more rugged setting.
Airports
How to reach Maitland by plane.
Primary airport for the region (domestic and international flights), roughly 20–30 minutes by car depending on traffic. Rental cars, taxis, and rideshares are readily available.
Smaller airport north of Orlando, often used by some budget and charter carriers; about 30–40 minutes by car from Maitland.
An option for some flights and private aviation; approximately 45–60 minutes away by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many established families live in Maitland, attracted by good schools, parks, and suburban amenities.
Commuters and professionals who work in Orlando or nearby business districts form a significant portion of the population.
Maitland attracts retirees seeking a mild climate and quieter community with access to healthcare and cultural activities.
The area is ethnically and culturally diverse, reflecting Central Florida’s mix of White, Hispanic/Latino, Black, and immigrant communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer has a growing following in the region with Orlando City SC drawing local support; amateur and youth soccer are common.
NBA basketball is popular locally; many residents follow the Orlando Magic and youth/rec basketball programs are widespread.
Golf is widely played in Central Florida, with many public and private courses for casual and serious golfers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Maitland.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available (salads, grain bowls, veggie sandwiches) and newer restaurants often feature vegetarian entrées; ask staff for plant-based preparations.
Vegan choices exist but can be limited in smaller eateries; larger cafes and restaurants in Maitland and nearby Winter Park/Orlando are more likely to have vegan mains and desserts.
Many restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests, but always mention allergies explicitly; bakeries and some ethnic eateries may have limited gluten-free options.