Winter Park FloridaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Winter Park, Florida.
1. The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art
WORLD-RENOWNED TIFFANY GLASS
The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art is famous for its extensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, including stunning stained glass, jewelry, and decorative art. Visitors can explore galleries filled with intricate glass lamps, windows, and the reconstructed Tiffany Chapel from the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition. This cultural gem offers an immersive experience into American decorative arts history.
2. Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens
SCULPTURE AND GARDENS RETREAT
The Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens showcases the home, studio, and lush gardens of renowned Czech-American sculptor Albin Polasek. Guests can view an impressive array of his sculptures displayed both indoors and throughout landscaped lakeside grounds. The museum offers a peaceful setting for art appreciation and reflection.
3. Winter Park Chain of Lakes
SCENIC WATERWAY ADVENTURES
The Winter Park Chain of Lakes offers a network of picturesque lakes connected by charming canals, ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and scenic boat tours. Visitors enjoy serene waters surrounded by lush greenery and glimpses of grand historic homes. The lakes provide both relaxation and outdoor recreation opportunities within the city.
4. Park Avenue Shopping District
CHIC BOUTIQUES AND CAFÉS
Park Avenue is Winter Park's vibrant main street, renowned for its upscale shopping, sidewalk cafés, and fine dining experiences. The avenue is lined with boutiques, art galleries, and shaded parks that host seasonal festivals and events. It's the perfect place to stroll, shop, and soak in the city's elegant European-inspired ambiance.
5. Central Park
RELAXING URBAN GREEN SPACE
Central Park is the heart of downtown Winter Park, featuring beautifully manicured gardens, winding pathways, and charming fountains. The park is a community hub for outdoor concerts, art festivals, and leisurely picnics under shady oak trees. It provides an inviting escape for relaxation and recreation amid city life.
6. Scenic Boat Tour
HISTORIC CANAL CRUISES
The Scenic Boat Tour offers a unique perspective of Winter Park's natural beauty and historic estates from the water. Guests glide through tranquil lakes and canals while guides share fascinating stories about the city's architecture and local history. This relaxing tour is a signature experience for visitors of all ages.
7. Winter Park Farmers' Market
FRESH PRODUCE AND LOCAL GOODS
The Winter Park Farmers' Market is a lively Saturday tradition known for its farm-fresh produce, artisan foods, and vibrant community atmosphere. Held in a historic train depot, the market features vendors offering everything from baked goods to plants and local crafts. It's a favorite spot for locals and visitors to enjoy a taste of Central Florida.
8. Rollins College
HISTORIC LAKESIDE CAMPUS
Rollins College is Florida's oldest recognized college, set on a picturesque campus overlooking Lake Virginia. Visitors can admire Mediterranean Revival architecture and beautifully landscaped grounds, or attend art and music events open to the public. The Walk of Fame and Cornell Fine Arts Museum are notable highlights on campus.
9. Mead Botanical Garden
NATURE AND WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Mead Botanical Garden is a tranquil oasis spanning 47 acres, featuring scenic trails, boardwalks, and diverse plant collections. Visitors can spot native wildlife, enjoy butterfly and vegetable gardens, and participate in nature-themed programs. The garden offers both peaceful strolls and educational experiences in a lush setting.
10. Casa Feliz Historic Home Museum
SPANISH REVIVAL ARCHITECTURE
Casa Feliz is a beautifully restored Spanish farmhouse designed by celebrated architect James Gamble Rogers II. The historic home offers tours, cultural events, and a glimpse into early 20th-century life in Winter Park. Its picturesque setting and striking architecture make it a popular venue for weddings and community gatherings.
11. The Winter Park Playhouse
INTIMATE MUSICAL THEATER
The Winter Park Playhouse is Central Florida's only professional musical theater, acclaimed for its lively Broadway-style productions and special cabaret performances. The intimate setting ensures every seat offers a close view of the action and musical talent on stage. It's a beloved destination for theater enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
12. Kraft Azalea Garden
LAKESIDE GARDEN SANCTUARY
Kraft Azalea Garden is a hidden gem situated on the shores of Lake Maitland, renowned for its graceful cypress trees and flourishing azalea blooms in spring. The garden's classical Exedra monument provides a peaceful spot for reflection and photography. It's popular for weddings, picnics, and quiet escapes in nature.
13. Winter Park Historical Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE EXHIBITS
The Winter Park Historical Museum chronicles the city's evolution, from railway resort town to thriving community, through engaging exhibits and artifacts. Housed in a former railroad freight depot, the museum hosts rotating displays highlighting local history, traditions, and notable residents. It's an informative stop for those interested in the story behind Winter Park.
14. Hannibal Square Heritage Center
AFRICAN AMERICAN ART & HISTORY
The Hannibal Square Heritage Center celebrates the art, culture, and history of Winter Park's African American community. Visitors can explore powerful photographic exhibits, oral histories, and art installations reflecting the neighborhood's rich legacy. The center also offers educational programs and cultural events throughout the year.
15. Orlando Science Center
HANDS-ON SCIENCE EXPLORATION
The Orlando Science Center is a dynamic destination for families and curious minds just south of Winter Park, offering interactive exhibits on everything from physics to paleontology. Guests can enjoy live science demonstrations, giant screen films, and engaging children's play areas. Its proximity makes it an easy and educational outing from Winter Park.