Let’s talk renovations (and how to get the dough to make them happen). | Photo via Pexels
Fall is in the air, and we’re feeling revived. Anyone else? If cooler temps (and hot coffee) have you ready to get creative and start a project or two, you’re not alone.
Whether you want to go big and increase your home’s value or just spruce things up before the holidays, it’s a great time to get started.
Starting small
From switching out light bulbs to replacing your cabinet knobs + drawer pulls, you can boost comfort and value without breaking the bank. Here are 10 low-lift, high-impact ideas, all under $100.
Getting cooking
When you think about home renovations, which room comes to mind first? For many, it’s the kitchen, and for good reason — upgrades can go a long way, both for your own enjoyment and your home’s selling potential.
Hungry for inspo? The National Kitchen & Bath Association’s annual Kitchen Design Trends report is a great resource. Here’s what’s in for 2025:
Statement colors for backsplashes, islands, cabinets, and walls
Biophilic design, aka bringing the outdoors in (think: large windows for natural light + herb gardens)
Multifunctional appliances and mood lighting
Making it happen
Considering major renovations? Even if you plan to DIY, the costs can add up. Luckily, there are options out there, like HELOCs (Home Equity Lines of Credit) and Equity Sharing Home Loans.
This spot is for the nonstop button mashers. | Photo via 6AM City
If you grew up saving your quarters to head to the arcade, you can power up that childhood excitement at Arcade Monsters. There are multiple locations in the Orlando area, including on International Drive in Orlando and in Oviedo + Lake Mary.
Inside each arcade you’ll find a massive selection of retro games with everything from pinball to “Pac-Man.” There are also more current games and international titles you may have never heard of before. You’ll also find food offerings and a bar for players 21+.
Plus, you won’t have to worry if you’re out of lives — entry includes unlimited play.
Pro tip: The arcades are family friendly, so feel free to introduce young gamers to your old-school favorites.
Events
Events
Wednesday, Sept. 24
BBMAK | 7:30 p.m. | Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts | $53
Chad + JT | 7-8:30 p.m. | Funny Bone Comedy Club | $32+
Thursday, Sept. 25
“Forever Plaid” | Through Sunday, Oct. 19 | Times vary | Orlando Shakes | $20+
Oviedo Oktoberfest 2025 | Thursday, Sept. 25-Saturday, Sept. 27 | Times vary | Oviedo Amphitheater and Cultural Center | Free
Orlando will install 35 new cameras at intersections, a safety measure aimed at preventing drivers from running red lights. The city already has 45 red light cameras, which have helped reduce crashes by 23%. The new cameras are expected to be installed in summer 2026. (Fox 35)
Development
Construction has begun on Ivey Flats, a 137-unit housing complex on South Ivey Lane in Orlando. The apartment community will feature affordable units for locals earning 80% of the median income or less. Potential renters can sign up to receive updates on the development.
Coming Soon
The Altamonte Mall is expecting seven new tenants to move in by the end of the year. The new retailers include Old Navy and Pop Mart — the trendy company known for its Labubu plush toys. Other additions include a gaming facility, two fashion shops, and two restaurants. (Orlando Business Journal)
Travel
Orlando International Airport is gearing up to launch air taxi service. Air traffic controllers conducted tests with the FAA to assess how electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft could integrate into current operations. FAA approval is still pending, but MCO hopes to launch service by 2028. (Orlando Business Journal)
Plan Ahead
The Asian Lantern Festival is getting ready to light up the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens. The three-quarter-mile path will start glowing on Friday, Nov. 14, and will continue through Sunday, Jan. 18. Ticket sales will begin on Wednesday, Oct. 1.
Ranked
Living in Orlando is pretty great, and the City Beautiful placed No. 11 on Resonance Consultancy’s “America’s Best Cities 2025" ranking. While Orlando missed the top 10, it did rank No. 1 in metrics pertaining to growth in population, jobs, and GDP.
Seasonal
With autumn comes crowd-favorite fall festivals + so much live music (we’re ready to jam out at ECD Orlando). Luckily, these hearing aids are the world’s first with multi-stream processing, designed to help you engage in conversations effortlessly (even in noisy environments).*
Real Estate
Searching for that perfect O-Town abode?These 19 new home communities are a great place to start. Brand-new and beautifully built, homeowners can choose from a wide range of styles, locations, and even amenities. See neighborhoods near you.*
Announced
Hungry for a good time? Grab ticketsfor the first annual Central Florida Food Fest on Saturday, Oct. 18, at Bonnet Springs Park for food from regional chefs, live music, a marketplace, and more at this 21+ only event.*
Seasonal
In the mood for a little home improvement this fall? From DIY projects under $100 to expert-backed kitchen trends — and how to pay for it all — keep reading.*
This coaster is on track for an early 2026 debut. | Photo via @legolandflorida
A new roller coaster is preparing to blast off at LEGOLAND Florida Resort. The Winter Haven park shared a look at its Galacticoaster, which is currently under construction and expected to launch in early 2026.
What do we know about this new space-themed ride? LEGOLAND is crediting it as its first-ever indoor family coaster and it will soar 50 ft high on a journey through a 1,500-ft track.
The attraction will also include an immersive, story-telling experience that begins in its queue. Plus, expect an accompanying souvenir shop and play space for toddlers.
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.
It’s officially scary movie season, at least, it is in my house. Scary movies are always a little creepier when they’re close to home, and the “Final Destination” franchise filmed scenes in Orlando for its 2009 installment.
