Sarah’s Small Town Escapes: Winter Garden
Just 30 minutes west of Orlando, Winter Garden feels like a total change of pace. With its small-town charm and walkable, historic downtown, it’s the kind of place you’ll want to keep coming back to. Here are six spots worth checking out on your next visit!
1. Take a walk at Newton Park
Newton Park sits right on Lake Apopka, just a short walk from busy Plant Street. You’ll find great views, a boardwalk, and raised walkways. The wildlife is plentiful. I saw a bunch of birds and even a few alligators while I was there!
2. Visit the Winter Garden Hertigage Musem
Operated by the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation, which was actually formed to save the Edgewater Hotel from demolition, this small museum in the heart of downtown is a treasure. Don’t miss the video that details the twists and turns of Winter Garden's history. it’s an impressive story! The nearby Central Florida Railroad Museum is also worth a visit.
3. Explore Plant Street
Plant Street is the heart of historic Winter Garden. Stop in the many shops (Writer’s Block Bookstore and Apricot Lane are two of my favorites!) and grab a bite to eat. You’ll often find a line out the door at Rosallie Le French Cafe, but it’s worth the wait. And, Plant Street Market is very popular, especially in the early evening hours.
You’ll also see plenty of bikers and walkers passing through downtown on the popular West Orange Trail, which threads through the center of Plant Street.
4. Appreciate local art at Sobo Art Gallery
Escape the heat in this free art gallery just off Winter Garden’s main drag. When I visited SOBO, student art was on display, showcasing the incredible talent of local grade-school artists. It was inspiring to see their creativity!
5. Shop the Winter Garden’s Farmers Market
The Winter Garden’s Farmers Market is a major draw, taking place every Saturday year-round from 8 am to 1 pm. With over 100 vendors, you’ll find everything from locally-sourced produce to artwork, baked goods, clothing, accessories, and the most refreshing fresh lemonade!
6. Spend the night at The Edgewater Hotel
The Historic Edgewater Hotel has been a cornerstone of Winter Garden’s growth since the 1920s and 1930s. It also played a significant role in its recent resurgence. I loved spending two nights there in the Corner King Suite overlooking Plant Street. The building is also home to several restaurants & shops, including Scoops Ice Cream!
