Eatonville FloridaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Eatonville, Florida.
1. Zora Neale Hurston National Museum of Fine Arts
LITERARY AND CULTURAL LANDMARK
The Zora Neale Hurston National Museum of Fine Arts showcases beautiful art pieces by artists of African descent in the heart of historic Eatonville. Visitors can explore exhibits that celebrate African American culture and the legacy of Zora Neale Hurston, the famous author who grew up in this community. The museum also offers books and merchandise for purchase, with donations helping to support this important cultural institution.
2. Eatonville Walking Tour
HISTORIC SELF-GUIDED EXPLORATION
The Eatonville Walking Tour offers a self-guided journey through America's oldest incorporated all-Black town, starting at The Hungerford School and ending at Mack's Garage. Along this historic path, visitors will encounter significant landmarks including the Hurston homesite and the Old Cemetery, providing insights into the town's rich cultural heritage. The tour takes approximately two hours to complete and is available from sunrise to sunset, sponsored by The Florida Department of State.
3. Kennedy Boulevard
HISTORIC MAIN STREET
Kennedy Boulevard serves as the main thoroughfare through historic Eatonville, offering visitors a glimpse into the town's unique character and heritage. This historic walking area features notable landmarks including the Zora Neale Hurston National Museum of Fine Arts and other culturally significant sites. Strolling down Kennedy Boulevard allows visitors to experience the authentic atmosphere of America's oldest incorporated all-Black town.
4. St. Lawrence AME Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
St. Lawrence AME Church stands as an important religious and historical landmark in Eatonville, representing the spiritual foundation of this historic community. The church has played a significant role in the town's development as America's oldest incorporated all-Black municipality. Visitors can appreciate both the architectural features and the cultural significance of this enduring institution in Eatonville's heritage.
5. The Hurston Homesite
LITERARY ICON'S CHILDHOOD HOME
The Hurston Homesite marks the childhood home of celebrated author Zora Neale Hurston, one of America's most influential writers of the 20th century. This historical site provides visitors with a connection to Hurston's formative years in Eatonville, which later inspired much of her literary work including her famous novel 'Their Eyes Were Watching God'. Visiting the homesite offers insight into how Eatonville's unique community shaped Hurston's perspective and storytelling.
6. The Old Cemetery
HISTORICAL BURIAL GROUNDS
The Old Cemetery in Eatonville serves as a solemn historical site preserving the memory of the town's early residents and founders. This burial ground offers visitors a tangible connection to the history of America's oldest incorporated all-Black community. The cemetery is an important stop on the Eatonville Walking Tour, providing context for understanding the town's development and cultural significance.
7. The Hungerford School
HISTORIC EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION
The Hungerford School represents an important educational landmark in Eatonville's history as one of the earliest schools established for African American students in Central Florida. Founded in the late 19th century, this institution provided crucial educational opportunities for generations of Black students during segregation. The school serves as the starting point for the Eatonville Walking Tour, highlighting its significance in the community's development and heritage.
8. Mack's Garage
HISTORIC AUTOMOTIVE LANDMARK
Mack's Garage stands as a historic landmark in Eatonville, representing the town's economic development and entrepreneurial spirit. The garage marks the endpoint of the Eatonville Walking Tour, bookending visitors' exploration of America's oldest incorporated all-Black town. This site helps tell the story of local business and commerce in Eatonville's development through the 20th century.
9. Walt Disney World Resort
WORLD-FAMOUS THEME PARKS
Walt Disney World Resort offers an expansive entertainment complex featuring four major theme parks, two water parks, and numerous hotels just a short drive from Eatonville. Visitors can experience the magic of Magic Kingdom, the cultural pavilions of Epcot, the Hollywood glamour at Disney's Hollywood Studios, and the animal adventures at Disney's Animal Kingdom. The resort provides entertainment for all ages with iconic attractions, spectacular shows, character encounters, and immersive themed areas.
10. Universal Orlando Resort
MOVIE-THEMED ADVENTURE PARKS
Universal Orlando Resort features three exciting theme parks with immersive attractions based on popular films and television shows near Eatonville. Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure offer thrilling rides and experiences themed around franchises like Harry Potter, Marvel superheroes, and Jurassic Park. Volcano Bay water theme park completes the experience with tropical-themed water slides and relaxation areas for the perfect Orlando vacation.
11. Lake Eola Park
URBAN OASIS DOWNTOWN
Lake Eola Park serves as Orlando's signature urban green space, featuring a scenic lake with its iconic swan boats and amphitheater. The park hosts numerous events throughout the year, including the weekly farmers market, various festivals, and outdoor concerts at the Walt Disney Amphitheater. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the nearly mile-long sidewalk encircling the lake while admiring the Orlando skyline views and the park's famous fountain light shows in the evenings.
12. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
SPACE EXPLORATION ATTRACTION
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers an immersive journey into America's space program with exhibits featuring authentic spacecraft and interactive experiences. Visitors can tour launch areas, meet astronauts, and experience the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit with more than 60 interactive elements. The complex also features the impressive Rocket Garden, IMAX space films, and the moving Heroes & Legends exhibit honoring astronaut pioneers.
13. Wekiwa Springs State Park
NATURAL SPRINGS RETREAT
Wekiwa Springs State Park offers a refreshing natural escape with crystal-clear springs maintaining a year-round temperature of 72 degrees, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The park provides opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the Wekiva River, plus miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding through diverse ecosystems. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking, camping, and wildlife viewing in this pristine natural setting just a short drive from Eatonville.
14. Winter Park
UPSCALE CULTURAL DISTRICT
Winter Park charms visitors with its brick-lined streets, upscale shopping on Park Avenue, and beautiful Chain of Lakes accessible by scenic boat tours. The city boasts impressive cultural attractions including the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, featuring the world's most comprehensive collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany works. Visitors can also explore Rollins College campus, the Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens, and the Winter Park Farmers' Market in this sophisticated Central Florida destination.
15. SeaWorld Orlando
MARINE LIFE THEME PARK
SeaWorld Orlando combines marine life exhibits with thrilling rides, educational presentations, and spectacular shows featuring dolphins, orcas, and sea lions. The park offers exciting roller coasters like Mako, Kraken, and Ice Breaker alongside opportunities to interact with and learn about marine animals. Visitors can enjoy areas like Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, Discovery Cove, and Aquatica water park for a complete marine-themed entertainment experience.