Discover the story of Orlando and Central Florida at the Orange County Regional History Center, a fascinating downtown museum housed inside the beautifully restored 1927 Orange County Courthouse. Across four floors of exhibits, visitors can explore 14,000 years of Central Florida history, from the region’s earliest people and pioneer settlements to citrus, aviation, civil rights, tourism, and the arrival of the theme parks.
Located in the heart of downtown Orlando, the History Center is an excellent stop for anyone curious about the city beyond its famous attractions. Historic artifacts, photographs, immersive displays, rotating exhibitions, and the courthouse itself reveal how a small Central Florida community developed into one of the world’s most recognizable travel destinations.
The History Center is located inside Orange County’s historic 1927 courthouse. The landmark building was once known as the “Million-Dollar Courthouse” and is part of the history visitors come to explore.
Quick Facts
- Located in downtown Orlando
- Housed in the historic 1927 Orange County Courthouse
- Four floors of exhibits
- Explores 14,000 years of Central Florida history
- Permanent and rotating special exhibitions
- Features an exhibit exploring Orlando’s transformation during the theme-park era
- Smithsonian Affiliate
- Family friendly
- Accessible by elevator
What You’ll See
The History Center’s core exhibitions explore the people, industries, cultures, and events that shaped Central Florida. Exhibits cover the region’s Indigenous peoples and natural environment, Spanish influence, pioneer life, African American history, cattle ranching and citrus growing, aviation, transportation, tourism, and other important chapters in the area’s development.
One of the most interesting sections for Orlando visitors explores the region’s transformation into a global tourism destination. The Theme-Park Era follows the dramatic changes that occurred after Walt Disney World opened in 1971, while Destination Florida looks further back at how travelers reached and experienced Central Florida before today’s theme parks and resorts.
Historic Courthouse
The building is an attraction in its own right. Completed in 1927 as the Orange County Courthouse, the restored landmark retains historic architectural details that give the museum a character very different from a modern exhibition hall. Exploring Central Florida’s past inside one of downtown Orlando’s most significant historic buildings adds another layer to the experience.
Visitors can also step inside the ornate historic courtroom, where exhibits share stories connected to actual cases once heard inside the building.
Special Exhibitions
In addition to its permanent galleries, the History Center regularly presents limited-run exhibitions covering Central Florida history, art, culture, and broader topics in American and world history. As a Smithsonian Affiliate, the museum is also able to present special exhibitions from the Smithsonian Institution and other prestigious museums.
Special exhibitions change throughout the year, so even returning visitors may discover something new. Check the museum’s current exhibition schedule before visiting if there’s a particular exhibit you’d like to see.
Allow around two hours for a first visit, and longer if you enjoy reading historical exhibits in detail. With four floors to explore, there’s considerably more inside than you might expect from the museum’s downtown footprint.
Why Visit the Orange County Regional History Center?
- Discover the history of Orlando beyond the theme parks.
- Explore four floors of exhibits inside a historic courthouse.
- Learn about Central Florida’s Indigenous, pioneer, agricultural, aviation, and tourism history.
- Discover how Walt Disney World and the tourism industry transformed the Orlando region.
- Step inside the courthouse’s historic courtroom.
- Experience changing special exhibitions throughout the year.
- Enjoy an affordable indoor attraction in the heart of downtown Orlando.
Perfect For
- History lovers
- First-time Orlando visitors
- Central Florida residents
- Families with school-age children
- Rainy-day activities
- Budget-friendly attractions
- Visitors exploring downtown Orlando
Good to Know
- The museum is located at 65 E. Central Boulevard in downtown Orlando.
- The History Center is a cashless facility.
- Elevators provide access to each museum floor.
- Paid museum admission includes two hours of validated parking in the nearby Library Garage, with one validation per visiting party.
- The museum recommends bringing a light jacket or sweater because the galleries can be cool.
- The History Center is currently undergoing several renovations, improvements, and updates, so check ahead if you’re visiting for a specific exhibition.
Park in the Library Garage at 112 E. Central Boulevard, just a short walk from the museum. Visitors with paid History Center admission receive validation for two hours of free parking, making it convenient to explore the museum without worrying about downtown parking costs.
Hours
The Orange County Regional History Center is generally open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The museum closes for select holidays and may occasionally adjust hours for special events, so check the official website before visiting.
Admission
General admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors age 55 and older, $7 for students and military with valid ID, and $6 for children ages 5–12. Children age 4 and younger receive free admission. Additional free and discounted admission programs are also available. Prices are subject to change, so check the official website before visiting.
Looking for More Orlando History?
Continue exploring Central Florida’s past at Fort Christmas Historical Park, where a replica 1837 fort and pioneer village offer a closer look at Florida’s frontier era and early life in Orange County.
Pair Your Visit
Because the History Center is located in the heart of downtown Orlando, it’s easy to pair your museum visit with a walk around Lake Eola Park or a performance at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Add lunch or dinner downtown for an easy half-day exploring Orlando beyond the theme parks.
Nearby Things to Do
The Orange County Regional History Center is within walking distance of Heritage Square, the Orlando Public Library, restaurants, public art, and other downtown destinations. Kia Center is also nearby for Orlando Magic games, concerts, and other major events.
Orange County Regional History Center Images
