The real gem of Orlando is not found in a theme park
by Fabrizio Gowdy
The area just south of Orlando is teeming with huge theme Parks—Disney, Universal, SeaWorld, Legoland—but five miles north of downtown Orlando you’ll find a very different kind of attraction, the city of Winter Park.
The city was established in the late 19th century as a winter resort for the original snowbirds, wealthy Northern elites, with President Chester Aurthur calling it “prettiest place I’ve seen in Florida.” From its elegant homes along quiet brick streets to the upscale shops and restaurants lining Park Avenue, modern-day Winter Park has not forgotten its affluent roots.
One of the best ways to see the tiny hamlet is from the water. One of Winter Park’s oldest attractions, hour-long scenic boat tours leave from the end of East Morse Boulevard and take visitors through three three lakes and two narrow, man-made canals. You’ll get excellent views of waterfront properties as tour guides point out mansions belonging to celebrities, including that of beloved TV host Mister Rogers. One of Florida’s unique and interesting experiences, the tour is a must-see if you’ve never done it.
If you enjoy perusing high-end shops, you’ll find dozens of clothing stores, jewelers, and boutiques as you stroll the main commercial district on Park Avenue. Winter Park is hardly lacking in fine dining options, either. Staying on Park Avenue, Briarpatch Restaurant is one of the top breakfast spots. Bosphorus Turkish Cuisine and the waterfront Hillstone Restaurant consistently rank as top-rated lunch and dinner establishments.
Another popular activity among visitors is walking Rollins College, which Princeton Review named America’s prettiest college campus. Overlooking Lake Virginia, the campus is home to the Rollins Museum of Art and the Knowles Memorial Chapel, an iconic Mediterranean Revival building on the National Register of Historic Places.
One thing that strikes you as you stroll Winter Park is the level of city planning and excellent incorporation of art and greenspaces. The centerpiece of downtown is Central Park, an 11-acre green space with a SunRail station offering easy access to Orlando and beyond via train. With its abundance of well-kept parks such as the Kraft Azalea Garden and the Mead Arboretum, it’s no wonder the area is a popular spot for proposals and weddings. Just steps away from Central Park is the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of Art, showcasing the world’s most comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany.
Be on the lookout for images of peacocks—they’re everywhere, hanging above shopfronts, on fountains and sculptures, and even the city seal. The flamboyant bird, a fitting symbol for Winter Park, is a sort of mascot for the city. With a local peacock population of several hundred, the large birds have been known to roam residential streets and snack on food put out by residents.
With its emphasis on greenery, art, and culture, Winter Park is a pleasant place for a weekend retreat, or even just a quick stop if you happen to be heading to a theme park.
