Barbie debuted in 1959 and has been an international icon ever since. Though each Barbie is different, they all have the same lasting effect, inspiring generations. The release of Greta Gerwig’s new Barbie movie broke the record for the biggest opening for a film with a female director, proving that Barbie’s impact remains strong. The Barbie movies’ fun, adventurous, and inspiring nature has people of all ages looking to celebrate and embrace Barbie’s lifestyle in their own cities.
As a full-service Orlando Property Management Company we know the ins and outs of the city. Orlando is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world because there is no shortage of things to do. We know Barbie would love Orlando, so we want to help you embrace your inner Barbie. We’ve created a Barbie-inspired guide to Orlando, using the two most iconic Barbies as inspiration; the original Barbara Millicent Roberts, and Malibu Barbie.
The Original Barbie
The Original Barbie, Barbara Millicent Roberts, was released in 1959. Did anyone know the impact this would make on the world? The original Barbie wore a black and white swimsuit, a ponytail, red lipstick, and hoop earrings. The movie poster for the new Barbie movie shows actor Margot Robbie dressed in a black and white striped swimsuit resembling the original Barbie. As Barbara Millicent is a 50s girl, we know she would hang out at one of the local diners or catch a movie at the family drive-in. Here are a few spots in the Orlando area that will allow you to turn back time to the 50s and spend a day in the life of Barbara Millicent Roberts.
Drive-in movies in Orlando:
Drive-in movies became a hit and were one of the most popular activities in the 50s and 60s for people of all ages. The Orlando area has a number of drive-in movies, including The Ruskin Family Drive In, which they call home to the last 50’s family drive-in. Since its first showing in 1952, driving in for a movie here will give you an authentic 50s experience.
Over in Lakeland is the Silver Moon Drive In Theater, thriving since 1948. This drive-in theater is even currently playing the Barbie movie. What’s more Barbie-esque than watching the Barbie movie the way the original Barbie would have done it? Be sure to grab some snacks and enjoy the film!
Best Diners in Orlando, Florida
Orlando, Florida is known for its theme parks, where you can find unique themed restaurants, cafes, and shops, including several retro-style diners.
Soda shops were a popular hangout spot in the 50s, providing a place for teens and adults alike to grab an ice cream, soda and enjoy the company of friends. Beaches and Cream Soda Shop, located in Disney’s Beach Club Resort, is decorated to resemble a vibrant retro soda shop with colorful tile floors and jukeboxes. The restaurant serves gigantic ice cream creations and popular diner fare like onion rings and burgers.
Although located in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where you’ll need valid admission to the park, 50’s Prime Time Cafe is the perfect place to embrace Barbie’s roots. With vinyl chairs and black and white TVs playing clips from famous 1950s shows, this 50’s dedicated cafe will have you wishing you were a member of the greatest generation. Order Grandpa Jean’s Chicken Pot Pie, Pineapple Upside Down Cake, and a Rootbeer Float for a genuinely authentic 1950s Barbie experience.
The Beaches and Cream Soda Shop and the 50’s Prime Time Cafe also make the perfect Instagram photo-op. To make for a totally far-out Barbie tribute, wear a striped shirt and some hoop earrings to match the original Barbie and embrace the lifestyle of the icon herself.
Orlando, Florida Malibu Barbie
When people think of Barbie, Malibu Barbie may be one of the first to come to mind. Malibu Barbie is the ultimate pink girly girl, surfing legend, and beach babe. Hence the name Malibu Barbie; this coastal-inspired Barbie is from Malibu, California. Living like Malibu Barbie for a day would mean wearing pink and visiting coastal-themed places in Orlando.
Being in Florida makes it easy to mimic the coastal feel of Malibu, California. With the warm climate and plenty of coastal-themed places in Orlando, achieving the lifestyle of Malibu Barbie won’t be difficult.
Best Restaurants in Orlando, Florida
Purple Ocean Superfood Bar, with multiple locations in Orlando, is one of the many tropical-inspired restaurants in the area. Purple Ocean Superfood resembles the coastal vibe Malibu Barbie would love, decorated with surfboards, tropical plants, and boho decor. They use all-natural, organic, raw ingredients to make their delicious acai bowls and smoothies. We highly recommend the “Jobos” acai bowl packed with banana, strawberries, coconut flakes, and Nutella and topped with honey or agave.
The Glass Knife located in Winter Park, Florida is an aesthetic cafe and bakery serving delicious cakes, pastries, and savory brunch bites. Although not a beach theme, this restaurant, pink on the outside and the inside, makes the perfect place for a girly get-together to indulge in a sweet treat before seeing the new Barbie movie.
Barbie Dream House in Orlando
They say you always find your way back home, and if Malibu Barbie were in Orlando, the phrase would be accurate; Orlando has its very own Malibu Barbie Dreamhouse. Inside the arcade bar 1-up is a true pink paradise Barbie Dreamhouse decked out in pink neon signs and cute decor. Inside the Dreamhouse you’ll find a pink ball-pit bathtub, a Barbie photo wall, and endless Instagram photo opportunities. The bar also serves a Barbie Dreamhouse cocktail you can enjoy while relaxing in the Malibu Barbie paradise.
Orlando, Florida Outdoor Oasis
Just a short drive from Orlando, you can find the crystal-clear springs of Kelly Park/Rock Springs. This hidden gem with a beautiful river and vibrant greenery will help you embrace Malibu Barbie’s love for the beach and the outdoors. You can tube or paddle board through the free-flowing natural spring or relax and enjoy the scenic views. Grab your sun hat, beach towel, pink bathing suit, and a refreshing smoothie from Purple Ocean Superfood Bar, and head to Kelly Park/Rock Springs to embrace Malibu Barbie’s carefree and glamorous lifestyle right here in Orlando, Florida.
Our Barbie-Inspired Orlando Property Management Guide
Just as Barbie has remained an inspiration to generations worldwide, our Orlando Barbie-inspired guide shares some exciting ways to celebrate the release of the new Barbie movie and to honor the timeless icon. Orlando’s diverse restaurants, bars, and experiences allow you to unleash your inner Barbie, embrace her personas, and create a unique adventure.
So, whether you’re a long-time Barbie fan or simply seeking to participate in the current Barbie trends, the abundance of things to do in Orlando offers a variety of ways to embrace the lifestyle of Barbie. Step into the world of Barbie for a day and have some fun; come on Barbie, let’s go explore Orlando!
If you are a rental property owner or investor looking for Orlando Property Management services, contact our boutique property management company. We specialize in the management of single-family homes, townhomes, condos and multifamily properties throughout the Orlando and Central Florida area. Contact Us today for the best Orlando property management services!
