Try the Hibachi Steak and Shrimp at Yak & Yeti. | Photo via @yakandyeti_disney
We recently shared a restaurant recommendation from reader Beverly S., who wrote in responding to the welcome emails we send out when someone subscribes — but there’s more where that came from. Check out these other reader-recommended spots:
“One of my favorite restaurants to eat at is North. Love their Italian nouveau traditional food. Also like Stassios Italian Deli for a quick bite and take out!” — Maria D.
Events
Events
Monday, July 7
Yoga & Meditation | 7-8 p.m. | The Veranda at Thornton Park | $15 | Destress after the work day in this beginner-friendly outdoor yoga class.
Tuesday, July 8
Hannah McGinley Lemasters | 7 p.m. | Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts | $23+ | Broadway meets jazz in this performance with Hannah McGinley Lemasters + a dynamic jazz trio.
Wednesday, July 9
Beautiful Café Scenes in Watercolor | 6-9 p.m. | Art & History Museums of Maitland, Maitland | $150 | Join this two-day workshop (the next class will take place on July 16) where you’ll paint a cafe scene using various watercolor techniques.
Thursday, July 10
Orlando Night Ride | 7-10 p.m. | Retro City Cycles | $50+ | Explore local bars, music, and nightlife by bike with a guide and a group.
Friday, July 11
MooChella Summer Vibes | 6-8 p.m. | Millie Moo’s | $20 | Think luau beach vibes when you come out to enjoy tropical drinks, beachy beats, and more family fun.
Saturday, July 12
84 - Van Halen Tribute | 7:30 p.m. | House of Blues, Lake Buena Vista | $20+ | You’ll “Dance the Night Away” at this tribute concert at the HOB.
Sunday, July 13
Ben Schwartz & Friends | 8 p.m. | Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts | $47+ | Expect an entirely improvised show by the “Parks and Recreation” actor + guest performers.
From the kitchen counter that lights up with your touch to the motion-sensor faucets, this Dr. Phillips home has everything you didn’t know you wanted. Our favorite feature, however, is the courtyard behind the front gate.
Outdoors
Going camping soon? Hipcamp allows you to browse campsites by location, date, and even party size. It looks like Camp Shiloh in Oak Hill has availability this weekend — and nearby wetlands to explore.
Kids
No. 13. That’s where Florida ranked on Wallethub’s list of states with the highest cost of childcare. Allow us to help offset some of those costs with our guide to free activities around Orlando.
Shop
Pre-coffee Costco run? Executive members now have that option, thanks to the supermarket’s extended hours that went into effect last week. Executive members in Orlando can now access the S Orlando and E Orlando locations at 9 a.m., Monday-Sunday. (Axios)
Real Estate
Orlando is one of the best cities for renters, according to a recent survey by RentCafé. The ranking used metrics ranging from cost of living and average apartment size to unemployment rates and average school quality. Make the most out of renting in ORL with our “Live” City Guides.
Jobs of the Week
Calling all digital nomads. Take a peek at these remote jobs:
Cool off after your trek with a dip in Wekiwa Springs — you earned it. | Photo via Florida State Parks
Hiking in Central Florida? Yep, it’s possible. And this time of year, our favorite trails are the ones that lead us to water. Check out some of our favorite spots for hiking near springs.
Key: Easy = 🥾 | Moderate = 🥾🥾 | Hard = 🥾🥾🥾 Wekiwa Springs, 1800 Wekiwa Cir., Apopka
Difficulty: 🥾 🥾
Length: 18.8 miles
Wheelchair accessible: Portions
Pet-friendly: Yes, with leash
Start your journey on the wet-to-dry trail, which begins on lower ground near the spring and ends upland. If you want a longer walk, opt for the shorter Orange Trail (5.3 miles), the longer White Trail (13.5 miles), or the accessible boardwalks.
There are five different trails for you to explore here. Make your way down the Spring Run Boardwalk for views of Blue Spring Run, or venture around Pine Island Trail to start + end at the Lagoon.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
Recently, we asked y’all a very philosophical question. And the results are in. Food for thought from one reader: “Technically, yes. Culturally, no. Existentially? It’s a hot dog. And maybe that’s enough.”
Our Lakeland coworkers recently put together a guide to nearby beach destinations that I thought was worth sharing. For each location, the team gave a food, activity, and accommodation recommendation. I know we’re coming off a long weekend, but I wouldn’t say no to a trip to Nokomis Beach.