You think the UCF area is all done growing, and then … surprise! With new eateries opening and new locations popping up in tandem with spanking-new student housing compounds, the area grows more diverse in its offerings, bound by sticky floors and nickel beers no more. Don’t forget about the cultural offerings around the area, too, including Theatre UCF and plenty of quality concerts, art shows and literary events dotting the University of Central Florida campus and surrounding spots. Stretching down Alafaya Trail and up University Boulevard, this neighborhood is starting to mature in its own way, while keeping that laid-back college vibe alive.
EAT
Nar Mediterranean Grill
3402 Technological Ave.
407-277-4774
narmedi.com
Natura Coffee and Tea
12078 Collegiate Way
407-482-5000
naturaorlando.com
Super Burger
10042 University Blvd.
407-842-1509
superburger.net
DRINK
Lazy Moon
11551 University Blvd.
407-658-2396
lazymoonpizza.com
World of Beer UCF
3402 Technological Ave.
321-235-9741
wobusa.com/locations/ucf
PLAY
CFE Arena
12777 N. Gemini Blvd.
407-823-3070
cfearena.com
Little Econ Greenway/Jay Blanchard Park
2451 N. Dean Road
407-208-0954
GO
Light Up UCF
www.cfearena.com/light-up-ucf.php
Ice skating, carnival rides and food vendors, plus outdoor showings of holiday movies. Dates TBD, but the event usually begins shortly before Thanksgiving and lasts through the New Year.
UCF Book Festival
9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Saturday, April 5, 2014
education.ucf.edu/bookfest
Meet loads of local and out-of-town writers at this literary fest. Author signings, panel discussions, workshops and book sales are all on the schedule.
