The Orlando ICEBAR

You may before have ordered a vodka on the rocks. Well, how about a vodka in the rocks? That’s on offer at what’s literally the coolest drinking establishment in Orlando: the ICEBAR.

Long time readers of the Spot Cool Stuff travel blog already know of the Orlando ICEBAR—we reviewed this bar with the overly-capitalized name in our article about ice bars located in warm places. Inside the ICEBAR 50 tons of ice are carved into counters, lounge chairs and, yes, even the glasses patrons drink out of.

Before and since our visit there we’ve heard mixed reports about it from readers. And so here’s some advice to those considering knocking back a cold one at the ICEBAR when in Orlando.

The key to know is this: The ICEBAR is more of an experience and less of a place to go get drinks.

One doesn’t go to the ICEBAR for the single’s scene—in part because it’s nearly impossible to look attractive in the fleece poncos the bar provides.

One doesn’t go to hang out for long—guests are limited to stays of 45 minutes, though you likely wouldn’t want to stay longer than that anyway. It’s freezing inside the bar. (Go figure). We’d estimate that the average customer stays for about 20 minutes.

And one certainly doesn’t go to the ICEBAR because it is cost effective—the admission costs vary but at the time of writing if you book your ticket in advance online (which we suggest anyway) the cost is $14.95. The entry fee does not include drinks; those of the alcoholic variety average around $10 each. Vodka concoctions are the house speciality. (Hint: try a Penguin Pizz).

Are all those reasons to avoid the Orlando ICEBAR? For some it is. But not Spot Cool Stuff.

Especially if you are visiting Orlando when it is hot and humid (which is to say, most always) there’s something surreal about stepping into a mini winter wonderland. The ICEBAR is also one of those Orlando activities that kids and parents can enjoy in equal amounts. Seatings are every evening at 7:15, 8:00, 8:45, 9:30, 10:15 and 11:00—people 8 to 21 years old are allowed in during those first two times.

Perhaps coolest of all: Some of the ice carvings inside the bar are really imaginative. The ICEBAR is almost like a small ice art museum that happens to serve drinks.

As for what to do after visiting the ICEBAR, we suggest warming up. The FIREBAR is right next door.

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Related posts:
The Coolest Bar In Vegas: The minus5 Ice Lounge
Have Wood Buring Spa Will Travel
The Harbin China’s Snow & Ice Festival
Places That Resemble Dr. Seuss Illustrations ← one’s in Orlando
The World Guide to Ice Bars in Warm Places

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This article is part of Spot Cool Stuff’s Orlando Week 2010—read more Orlando vacation ideas