Discover Winter Park: Spots to Check Out
Winter Park is a quaint suburb of Orlando, Florida, known for its old-world charm, tree-lined avenues, and serene lakes. It's a place where culture and leisure intertwine; you can enjoy leisurely boat tours on the glassy lakes, stroll through the elegant shops and cafes on Park Avenue, or immerse yourself in art at world-class museums. In this week’s blog, we explore some of the many activities and spots to check out in Winter Park!
Scenic Boat Tour
If you're new to the area and looking for a unique local experience, don't miss out on the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour! Perfect for nature enthusiasts or those just looking to explore beyond the usual Orlando spots, this boat tour is a hidden gem.
Nestled in Lake Osceola, just a quick drive from downtown Orlando, the tour takes you on an hour-long journey through three of Winter Park's beautiful lakes, connected by two serene man-made canals. Alongside nature, you'll be treated to views of stunning lakeside estates. As you cruise, watch out for local wildlife like diving cranes and sunbathing alligators, or perhaps a team of rowers from nearby Rollins College.
Starting your adventure is easy. The boat tour's dock is conveniently located at the end of Morse Boulevard on Lake Osceola, just a short walk from Park Avenue, the region's renowned upscale shopping district.
The boat tour boasts six spacious 18-passenger pontoon boats. Tickets are priced at $20 for adults and $10 for kids aged 2-11, while those under 2 can join for free. Just remember, they accept cash or check only! They operate from 10 am to 4 pm daily. It's an experience you won't forget!
Leu Gardens
Discover the splendor of Leu Gardens: 50 acres adorned with over 40 distinct plant collections from across the globe. Wander through a lush tropical rainforest, admire Florida's grandest formal rose garden, and be captivated by a mesmerizing butterfly haven. Located just a stone's throw from downtown Orlando, it's one of Florida's most cherished garden sanctuaries.
Fluffy Fluffy
If you’re a sweet tooth in search of a unique dessert experience, you can’t miss out on Fluffy Fluffy. At this place, each pancake is crafted uniquely. They begin with egg whites, whipped to ensure the end result is feather-light. These pancakes are then gently cooked at low temperatures, achieving a texture that seamlessly bridges a soufflé and a classic pancake — it's delightfully soft, bouncy, and airy. What’s more, they also serve savory croffles, cheesecake, and drinks!
This venue embraces Canada's rich cultural tapestry, weaving together flavors from both Eastern and Western traditions. Whether it's breakfast, lunch, dinner, be sure to check this spot out!
Park Avenue Shopping District
Since 1887, Park Avenue has served as the heart of a luxurious winter haven, epitomizing sophistication with its fine dining, upscale boutiques, and art museums, all set against a backdrop of shady parks and festive events. This charming street, often likened to "Little Europe," features hidden gardens, unique local shops, and a popular Saturday farmers’ market. The scenic boat tour we mentioned earlier, offering lakeside views of luxurious homes adds to the area's allure, making Park Avenue a timeless destination for visitors.
Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of Art
The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art houses the world's most extensive array of Louis Comfort Tiffany creations- this includes an array of Tiffany's masterpieces, from jewelry and pottery to art glass, windows, lamps, and even the chapel interior from the 1893 Chicago World's Fair.
In its latest expansion, which debuted in February 2011, the Morse Museum unveiled a dedicated space for artifacts from Tiffany’s famed Laurelton Hall estate. The museum welcomes visitors Tuesday through Sunday all year round, excluding certain holidays.
