Many adventures await inside these doors. | Photo via @laurenscanon
Picture this: Fall weather arrives, but you’re curled up inside reading a good book. This doesn’t have to be a work of fiction, because you can head to one of these 11 independent bookstores in the Orlando area to stock your shelves with new and new-to-you titles.
This local bookseller has two stores filled with novels across many genres. It’s known for highlighting indie authors, including children’s writers, and it hosts community events.
This family-owned store spreads sunshine with its wide selection of books. The staff is happy to help you find your next page-turner — you can start by exploring the staff picks.
If you identify as a book lover, this store is for you. The romance genre takes center stage here, but if that doesn’t fill your heart, the community aspect will. The shop offers events like author signings and release parties.
Orlando is taking strides toward developing its “O-Line” public space. City Council approved an engineering contract that would assess the feasibility of transforming space on Hughey Avenue for the project. This would create a trail from downtown to the SoDo neighborhood, but its timeline has not been announced. (Orlando Sentinel)
Travel
United Airlines announced plans to add 15 new routes in the US, including round-trip flights from Orlando to Houston, Chicago, and New York. The company made the decision after Spirit Airlines canceled routes following its bankruptcy filing, and United hopes to minimize disruptions to travelers.
Opening
Irish fashion retailer Primark has plans to outfit Orlando with its second local store. The budget-friendly brand signed a lease for a space at the Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets. A projected opening date has not been announced. (Orlando Business Journal)
Closing
Honey House Vintage will soon be a thing of the past. The Thornton Park boutique announced it will close on Sunday, Sept. 28. In its final weekend, the store will offer discounts on its remaining items and host a farewell event. (Orlando Weekly)
History
The Orange County Regional History Center is making its own history. The museum opened on Sept. 29, 2000, and is celebrating its 25th birthday. To observe this milestone, visitors will be able to receive discounts on memberships and on gift store purchases through Monday, Sept. 29.
Community
September is National Preparedness Month, and the City of Orlando is reminding locals to have resources ready in case of an emergency — especially during hurricane season. The city’s Emergency Management website also provides resources to address + recover from potential disasters.
Job
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A mellow moment in a can? Count us in. Cycling Frog is offering a free THC seltzer (just cover $2 shipping). Each flavor (Black Currant, Ruby Grapefruit, or Wild Cherry) pairs THC and CBD for a crisp, balanced sip that’s legal, low-key, and perfect for unwinding.*†‡
Category
City
📈 A powerhouse economy
Orlando is big, and it’s getting bigger. | Photo via Canva
Orlando keeps growing, and its economy shows no signs of slowing down. According to Niche’s “Rising Powerhouses” study, the City Beautiful ranked No. 3 on its list of mid-sized cities on the economic upswing.
The ranking assessed data from 2019 to 2023 to understand which US cities are experiencing the biggest economic boom. Here are some key metrics that helped Orlando earn a high placement:
42% — surge in GDP
73% — business application growth
36% — increase in median income
Orlando’s development is supported by one key factor — its people. The city is a leader in population growth, seeing a 14% increase. This indicates strong migration to the city, which has helped sustain housing demand and attract a range of businesses in different industries.
Games
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.
I was looking at my calendar yesterday, and there were 100 days until Christmas — as of today, it’s 99 days. I’m still waiting to hear about local holiday markets, but if you plan to visit Disney World, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party begins Friday, Nov. 7.
‡Limit 1 can of seltzer. First-time customers only. Must be 21+.
