Orlando’s Other Parks
We talked about Lake Eola on Sunday in the Valentine’s Day in Orlando blog so today I thought I’d write about some of the other parks and things to do in the Orlando area.
First up: Winter Park, one of Central Florida’s wealthiest areas and home to “Orlando’s Rodeo Drive”. Winter Park is a captivating place and you can enjoy a quieter pace of life just wandering around exploring everything it has to offer. From locals sauntering by their flower boxes to dining alfresco and enjoying a glass of wine, you’ll soon come to love the area.
Once you’ve enjoyed passing a few hours there, taken in Park Avenue where luxury retailers abound, make a short trip to Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour and enjoy floating by towering Cypress trees, tropical birds and eying up some mouth watering residences. This is the place to peak into the backyards of lakeside mansions and not risk arrest. You’ll never know what or who you will see.
If you’re visiting on a Saturday, take in the the Farmers Market at the citys restored train depot. The perfect place to get in touch with your culinary side.
Nearby is The Charles Hosmer Morse Musuem of American Art which boasts the world’s most comprehensive collection of Tiffany jewelry, pottery, paintings and lamps. There’s also the chapel interior that Louis Comfort Tiffany designed for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago.
From there, why not enjoy a performance by the Bach Festival Society of Winter Park at Rollins College? Rollins is the state’s oldest college and the 160 person choir and orchestra has entertained crowds for nearly 75 years. There’s nothing more charming than hearing live music in the Knowles Memorial Chapel with it’s stunning stained glass windows and stately architecture.
Next: Loch Haven Park.
One of the highlights of the Loch Haven Park is The Orlando Museum of Art. From early beginnings in the 20’s of groups of artists displaying their work, today it is known as one of the best museums of the south. Another must visit is the Orlando Science Center located in the same place. Four floors of pure fun and experiences to suit all the family.
Mennello Museum of American Art is another great venue to visit as you’ll find a treasure trove of works by folk artist Earl Cunningham while outside you’ll be sure to enjoy majestic trees and fabulous views. “The Mayor” is one of Central Florida’s oldest and largest oaks and its massive limbs that rest on the ground are simply something you have to see.
Just before you leave check out what’s playing at Orlando Repertory Theatre. Classics such as The Neverending Story and Junie B. Jones show throughout the year.
Finally: Thornton Park.
Here you’ll find sidewalk shops and craftsman style bungalows all just a heartbeat away from downtown. You an walk the cobblestones to find many wonderful shops and be sure to stop by Keila Glassworks as you’ll be sure to see a fine exhibition of glassblowing. You might even like to give it a go yourself in the mini workshop!
As you can see, there’s much to do…explore… and let us know what you find.
