Near Orlando however world’s away in attraction
I’ve at all times been a sucker for a small city. Or not less than the thought of a small city the place everybody is aware of one another, and all of the exercise normally takes place on a picture-perfect Primary Avenue that’s house to myriad enjoyable locations and quirky characters. The humorous factor is, whereas this concept appears tremendous enjoyable, it seems that I, like so lots of you, have a little bit of an elevated sense of what right now’s superb small city needs to be. Do I actually wish to eat at Al’s Pancake World (Stars Hole) or store in a retailer the place Aunt Bea may need bought a floral home gown (Mayberry)? I’m pondering, no! I’m a Floridian so clearly I take pleasure in issues which are quirky or perhaps a bit rustic. I really like a great hole-in-the-wall seafood shack however I additionally adore fabulous buying, nice eating, and boutique accommodations that provide upscale facilities.
In the event you’re like me and are searching for a small, walkable city for a weekend getaway that matches this invoice, you’re in luck. Jacksonville is a simple drive to uber-cute Winter Park. Positioned somewhat north of Orlando simply off of I-4, this hamlet brings all the most important road “feels” that one needs. Keep within the stunning Alfond Inn, the place you’ll be able to take pleasure in poolside cocktails, spa remedies, or a meal earlier than strolling a number of steps to the bustling village simply across the nook.
The primary thoroughfare is Park Avenue and it’s surrounded by Central Park, a beautiful inexperienced house that’s excellent for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. Park Avenue itself is crammed with unbiased boutiques, vintage and curiosity outlets, and chef-owned eating places. Don’t miss The Briar Patch for breakfast or lunch however plan to reach early. There’s normally a line of shoppers ready for the mimosas and to-die-for brunch fare. After a day of buying, hit Prato for dinner and pattern trendy takes on traditional Italian dishes. This stylish spot boasts a lovely outside patio and is a favourite for wood-fired pizzas and seasonal pastas.
Soak in a little bit of tradition with a go to to the Morse Museum of American Artwork, the place you’ll be able to view essentially the most complete assortment of works by Louis Consolation Tiffany on this planet. Or, head again to the Alfond Inn to admire their assortment of latest artwork. Installations change periodically and are courtesy of the Cornell High-quality Arts Museum at Rollins School. For the last word weekend deal with, take one of many hour-long Scenic Boat Excursions that launch day by day from 312 East Morse Blvd. Take pleasure in attractive views of historic houses, parks and pure areas whereas cruising via a series of lakes and scenic canals.
Wrap up the weekend by strolling via the attractive Spanish Mediterranean structure of Rollins School. You could be fortunate sufficient to catch a play or choral live performance when you’re there. Among the finest elements of this small city is that each one the locations shared with you’re inside strolling distance of one another. Jax Maggie & Co love that! Winter Park is greater than only a fairly face. It’s a real Florida gem that mixes a small city really feel with a contemporary sense of luxurious, historic attraction and pure magnificence.
— Maggie
Search for extra of Jax Maggie’s travels in upcoming editions of Jacksonville Journal.