When we were staying at Highlands Reserve recently with our son and his wife, who had come down from North Carolina, he and I had an afternoon skins golf comp at the wonderfully appointed 9 hole Winter Park Golf Course (WP9), and as our son and his wife used to live in Winter Park we all decided to make a days of it. Here’s an idea of what we, and you, can get up to in the city of Winter Park.
Winter Park, Florida, is a hidden gem that offers a delightful day trip experience for those seeking a break from Theme Park fatigue, or just a change from hanging out by the pool. This charming city, nestled just a few miles northeast of downtown Orlando, boasts a great blend of culture, history, and natural beauty that makes it a great place for a day’s outing.
One of its standout features is its picturesque chain of lakes. You can take leisurely boat tours on the pristine waters of Lake Osceola and Lake Virginia, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and scenic views. The chain of lakes also provides opportunities for picnicking, fishing, and birdwatching, so it an ideal spot for all nature enthusiasts.
For those interested in art and culture Winter Park is home to the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art. This houses the world's largest collection of works by renowned artist Louis Comfort Tiffany. The museum's stunning collection of Tiffany glass, lamps, and jewellery is wonderful to behold, and it also offers a great insight into the fascinations of the Arts and Crafts and Art Nouveau movements.
Park Avenue, the city's main thoroughfare, is another highlight. Lined with charming boutiques, art galleries, and sidewalk cafes, it's a shopping paradise and a hub for dining and people-watching. Strolling down Park Avenue, visitors can soak up the European-inspired ambiance while indulging in boutique shopping and savouring some wonderful cuisine.
Additionally, the Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens showcases a diverse collection of sculptures in a beautiful lakeside setting, making it a super serene place for art lovers to enjoy.
Winter Park also boasts Rollins College, a prestigious liberal arts institution, and the stunning campus can be explored at leisure. The campus is home to the Cornell Fine Arts Museum, which features a rich collection of art spanning various periods and cultures.
And of course, there’s the delights of the Winter Park 9 Golf Course. Sitting right in the middle of the city it’s a wonderful golfing experience at 2500 yards from the tips with three par 3’s, four par 4’s, and two par 5’s. Originally built in 1912 it recently went through a major 1.2 million USD renovation project and re-opened to rave reviews in 2016 with The Golf Channel, and Golf Advisor, named it the 5th Best Short Course in the entire country.
Winter Park, Florida, is a wonderful destination for a day trip. Its scenic lakes, cultural attractions, and charming atmosphere make it a unique and inviting place to explore. Whether you're interested in art, nature, simply relaxing in a beautiful setting, or playing a quick 9 holes, Winter Park has something to offer almost any visitor.
Ed Skilbeck
10th December 2023