Pleasure Island, Downtown Disney, and CityWalk are nighttime magnets for most tourists and some locals. But the dozens of clubs and bars along Orange Avenue and the rest of downtown Orlando attract most home-grown night owls, business travelers who want to stay as far as possible from the Mickey madness, and a small number of enterprising tourists who venture north at night.

Free Ride--A free public transportation system called Lymmo (tel. 407/841-2279; www.golynx.com/services/lymmo/index.htm) runs in a designated lane through the downtown area. But because Lymmo stops running at 10pm (midnight on Fri and Sat), it may stop moving before you do. So stash enough cash for a taxi if you're going to party late into the night.

Disney's Boardwalk--Disney's Boardwalk has a few options for folks searching for off-the-field nightlife. Street performers sing, dance, and do a little juggling and magic most evenings on the outdoor promenade.

Atlantic Dance (tel. 407/939-2444 for limited recorded information) features top-40 and '80s dance hits Tuesday through Thursday, and live bands on Friday and Saturday nights. It's open to everyone 21 and over. Hours are from 9pm to 2am and admission is free.

The rustic saloon-style Jellyrolls (tel. 407/939-5100) offers dueling pianos and a boisterous crowd. Strictly for the over-21 set, it's popular with visiting business travelers. There's a $5 cover after 7pm.

If you're looking to hoist a pint, the Big River Brewery and Grill (tel. 407/560-0253) serves micro-brewed beer as well as steaks, ribs, chicken, fish, sandwiches, and salads. Prices range from $7 to $27. It's open Monday through Thursday from 11:30am to 1am; Friday through Sunday from 11:30am to 2am. It's near Atlantic Dance.

Disney's Boardwalk can be a cheap night out if you enjoy strolling and people-watching (and if you stay out of the restaurants and clubs). It has something of a midway atmosphere reminiscent of Atlantic City's heyday.