DOWNTOWN BUSINESS NEWS
JUNE Soft Opens Its Doors in Thornton Park
Thornton Park’s dining scene welcomes a new wood-fired contemporary Mexican restaurant from Team Market Group. Located at 700 E Washington Street, JUNE offers bold Yucatán-inspired flavors with a clean, elevated approach—featuring wood-fired shareable dishes, fresh cocktails, and a 90% gluten-free menu free from seed oils and refined sugars. To explore the menu or make a reservation, click here.
Unexpected Funds Withheld from Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida
The Boys & Girls Club of Central Florida has been suddenly notified that $2.4 million in 21st Century Community Learning Center funds, essential for serving over 1,200 children across five Clubs, are being withheld immediately. This unexpected pause threatens vital out-of-school and summer programs, putting staff and services at risk and potentially impacting millions of families nationwide. They are urgently calling on the community to contact their Congressional representatives, sign the support letter, and to help raise awareness by sharing their message on social media. Click here to learn more.
Florida Repeals Sales Tax on Commercial Real Estate Leases
According to a recent Dean Mead article, Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 7031, repealing Florida’s state sales tax on commercial real estate leases effective October 1, 2025. This change eliminates the 2% tax on leases for office, retail, and industrial spaces, potentially reducing occupancy costs and boosting the state’s competitiveness. Businesses should review lease agreements and stay tuned for guidance from the Florida Department of Revenue. Read the full article from Dean Mead here.
Big Changes Ahead for Camping World Stadium
Camping World Stadium is preparing for a major transformation with over $400 million in upgrades, including expanded capacity, new luxury boxes, and a retractable area for larger events. Construction is set to begin in January 2026 and wrap up by summer 2027. As the renovation progresses, the city is also seeking a new naming rights sponsor to replace Camping World. Read more about these exciting developments here.
DTO EVENTS
The Changing Face of Orlando: A Sesquicentennial Celebration
Celebrate Orlando’s 150th anniversary with The Changing Face of Orlando: A Sesquicentennial Celebration, a photo exhibition at the City Hall Terrace Gallery. Featuring 12 historic images alongside their modern-day recreations, the show captures the city’s transformation over the past century and a half. The exhibition runs from July 10 through August 31. Learn more about the exhibit here.
City of Orlando Sandbag Distribution
Hurricane season has arrived, and the City of Orlando is offering free sandbags to help residents prepare. From July 10–12, pre-filled or self-serve sandbags will be available at the Streets and Stormwater Division (1010 Woods Avenue), with a limit of 10 per vehicle while supplies last. Distribution runs from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. Learn more here.
Bite30 Orlando
Last call for Bite30! This event features $38 prix fixe menus at top local restaurants, including DOP members Acropolis Greek Taverna and The Drake Kitchen + Bar. Don’t miss your chance to try new flavors and experience some of Central Florida’s best dining. Bite30 ends July 13 — learn more about participating restaurants here!
Dr. Phillips Center Tour
Experience an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts with OFA, including rare access to all three theaters and the new Judson’s venue. Attendees will witness the remarkable Steinmetz Hall floor transformation and hear insights from the production team and original design collaborators. Space is limited—register by July 16.
“Home Sweet Suburbia” Opens at the ArtCube Gallery
Launching July 17 at the ArtCube Gallery on Orlando’s West Church Corridor, a new immersive installation delves into themes of surveillance, nostalgia, and environmental tension within Florida’s suburbs. Titled “Home Sweet Suburbia,” the exhibit recreates a suburban home environment enhanced by live camera feedback and a soundscape by Zouri Eve, who will perform live on opening night. The installation will be open 24/7 through late September at Interstruct Design + Build.
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