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TA B L E O F C O NT E NT S
LETTER FROM THE EDITORS
NEIGHBORHOODS 11 Downtown/Parramore 13 Thornton Park/Eola Heights 17 Mills 50 19 Ivanhoe Village 23 College Park 25 Audubon Park/Baldwin Park 27 Milk District 29 SoDo/Delaney Park 31 Winter Park/Maitland 33 Curry Ford West/Hourglass 41 UCF/Union Park 43 I-Drive/Tourist Corridor 45 Sanford 49
ROAD TRIPS 51 Micanopy 52 Apalachicola 53 Flagler Beach 55
LISTINGS 57 Music & Nightlife 58 Sports & Recreation 61 Attractions 67 Arts & Culture 71
This 10th edition of our City Guide – our annual love letter to our favorite places and neighborhoods here in Orlando – comes out at a very strange and challenging time for our city, and our country. Even a city as used to constant and rapid change as Orlando is in a place of deep uncertainty. It’s so hard to tell what the future will hold for the City Beautiful, be it tomorrow, next month, November, or even (gasp) 2021. Which perhaps makes it even more important to put down on paper the things that *right now* make Orlando such a strange and beautiful and unique place. And for this year’s issue we also wanted to look back a little more than we are accustomed to, taking some measure of comfort and stability in Orlando’s long and vibrant history as a way to look forward to what’s to come. We have such high hopes that our small business community will weather this metaphorical (and literal – hi, hurricane season) storm, but in order to be of service to you, the reader, we had to lean back on our usual emphasis on restaurants, shops and bars, and look more toward our natural beauty spots. In these pages you’ll find the usual neighborhood guides, road trip ideas, cultural listings and more than a few ideas for outdoor outings – which we strongly suggest that you avail yourselves of, despite the heat. Keep your head up, Orlando. We’ll see you all next year.
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Florida Group Publisher Graham Jarrett Editor in Chief Jessica Bryce Young Editorial Digital Content Editor Dave Plotkin Entertainment Editor Matthew Moyer Contributors Rob Bartlett, Jen Cray, Holly V. Kapherr, Faiyaz Kara, Seth Kubersky, Bao Le-Huu Advertising Director of Sales Jeff Kruse Multimedia Account Execs Dan Winkler, Scotty Spar Classified and Legal Rep Jerrica Schwartz Sales Department Administrator Rachel Gold Creative Services Production Manager Daniel Rodriguez Business Director of Operations Hollie Mahadeo Circulation Circulation Manager Collin Modeste Euclid Media Group Chief Executive Officer Andrew Zelman Chief Operating Officers Chris Keating, Michael Wagner VP of Digital Services Stacy Volhein Director of Digital Strategy Colin Wolf Senior Marketing and Events Director Cassandra Yardeni Digital Operations Coordinator Jaime Monzon Controller Kristy Dotson euclidmediagroup.com National Advertising: Voice Media Group 1-888-278-9866, vmgadvertising.com Orlando Weekly Inc. 16 W. Pine St. Orlando, Florida 32801 orlandoweekly.com Phone 407-377-0400 Fax 407-377-0420 Orlando Weekly is published every week by Euclid Media Group Orlando Distribution Orlando Weekly is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader. Copyright notice: The entire contents of Orlando Weekly are copyright 2020 by Euclid Media Group LLC. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Publisher does not assume any liability for unsolicited manuscripts, materials, or other content. Any submission must include a stamped, self-addressed envelope. All editorial, advertising, and business correspondence should be mailed to the address listed above. Subscriptions: Six-month domestic subscriptions may be purchased for $150; one-year subscriptions for $240. Periodical Postage Pending at Orlando, FL POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Orlando Weekly, 16 W. Pine St., Orlando, FL 32801.
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DOWNTOWN
neighborhoods
ORLANDO PUBLIC LIBRARY, DOWNTOWN BRANCH
A
t the beginning of 2020 it seemed a safe bet that UCF’s new downtown campus ushering in an influx of new residents would be the most noteworthy development in downtown Orlando this year. Instead, the ongoing pandemic and its resultant economic impact on the area’s usually booming nightlife sector are the summer’s biggest story. And yet, downtown Orlando and Parramore – the most historic districts in our city – have seen their share of seismic shifts, and will surely endure. The historically Black neighborhood of Parramore was created in the 1880s to segregate the city’s Black community, but has since become a vibrant and vital neighborhood. Downtown’s Church Street district has now become the “City District,” including Parramore and Orange Avenue, in Orlando’s Main Streets program, bringing the two neighborhoods closer than ever.
Wells’ Built Museum of African-American History & Culture 511 W. South St., wellsbuiltmuseum.org
In the 1920s, the former hotel and casino built by Dr. William Wells hosted entertainers on the Chitlin’ Circuit; now it houses artifacts and memorabilia of Orlando’s African American community.
Le House
595 W. Church St.; facebook. com/lehouserestaurant
The first Vietnamese restaurant to grace the Parramore District presents a focused menu of traditional fare
– phos, noodles, fried rice and rolls, along with stir-fried veggie options.
Orlando Public Library 101 E. Central Blvd., ocls.info
So much to offer: music, art shows, readings, free technology in the Melrose Center, and books, glorious books, all housed in a fabulous Brutalist concrete building. As of this writing, the building is currently only open for limited essential services.
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts 445 S. Magnolia Ave., drphillipscenter.org
The beautiful, modern multi-use performance space is currently on orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 13
pause as far as events, but we can’t wait to take in a ballet or a concert there again. Belated congratulations to the Dr. Phil for becoming a Certified Autism Center.
Walt Disney Amphitheater at Lake Eola
512 E. Washington St., cityoforlando.net
Originally painted in rainbow colors in honor of the first Come Out With Pride after Pulse, it looks like the Walt Disney Amphitheater is going to stay proud permanently. It’s often the site of free performances, ethnic festivals, and rallies and demonstrations of late.
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DOWNTOWN Palmer Feed Store
Orlando City Stadium
It’s a real live old-fashioned feed store where you can buy live chicks and ducklings, animal feed, seeds, hay bales and penny candy. Start your DIY victory garden here.
Since the Orlando City Soccer Club cut the ribbon on its new stadium, which seats 25,500 fans, this has been the loudest locus of civic sporting pride in Orlando.
912 W. Church St., palmerfeedstore.com
CityArts
39 S. Magnolia Ave., downtownartsdistrict.com
Headquartered in the venerable Rogers-Kiene Building in the heart of downtown, CityArts presents an ever-changing array of well-curated exhibitions from local and national artists.
neighborhoods
655 W. Church St., orlandocitysc.com
Wall Street Plaza
25 Wall St., wallstplaza.net
Note for the future when partying is indeed a thing again: You haven’t partied in Orlando until you’ve gone through the multi-venue revelry rite of passage that is Wall Street. LANDMARK CENTER | PHOTO BY STEVE CARROLL
PARRAMORE’S WESTART DISTRICT, 1011 W. CENTRAL BLVD. | PHOTO BY JOEY ROULETTE
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THORNTON PARK
neighborhoods
the area prime for peoplewatching. Snag a seat on the patio at Soco, 310 Lakeside, Relax Grill, the Stubborn Mule or World of Beer and settle in to watch the world go by.
Marsh House
512 E. Washington St. cityoforlando.net
Also known as the Eola House, the George Marsh House is in Lake Eola Park and was constructed in 1924. George Marsh was an important figure in Florida’s citrus industry, and this home was placed on the register of Orlando’s historic sites in 1991.
Constitution Green Dog Park
C
THE FOUR RIVERS FOUNTAIN IN THORNTON PARK | PHOTO BY MATTHEW MOYER
lustered near downtown Orlando, these micro-neighborhoods (Thornton Park, South Eola and Eola Heights) are home to the city’s oldest bungalows, full of historic properties still standing from the 1880s through the 1930s. Turn-of-the-century developer James Thornton apparently resided on James Street, which was named after him in 1913. Fast forward a hundred years, and historic Eola Heights is still known for lovely, curb-appeal drives for the HGTV-loving set, while Thornton Park and South Eola comprise some of Orlando’s coolest hangouts, with newer and more established restaurants, artsy and divey bars, and indie boutiques all lining the streets around two most iconic bodies of water: landmark Lake Eola and Washington Street’s Four Rivers Fountain.
Lake Eola Park
512 E. Washington St. orlando.gov
Park on the street, grab your picnic blanket and take a turn around Orlando’s central point: Lake Eola and its dancing fountain. The city’s signature swan boats are available for a romantic rental from 11 a.m. to
6 p.m. daily, along with plenty of actual swans (and other birds).
Patios for peoplewatching Various locations
As one of the city’s most walkable neighborhoods, there are always pedestrians out and about in Thornton Park, making orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 17
300 S. Summerlin Ave. orlando.gov
Next to the giant live oak on Thornton Park’s west side, the Constitution Green Dog Park is open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily, and features pet waste stations, water stations for humans and canines, plenty of seating and a double-gated entry.
Snap! Downtown 420 E. Church St. snaporlando.com
This contemporary gallery space is home to revolving exhibitions of multimedia art, over 100 exhibited international photographers, and is a treasured lecture and event space for Orlando’s art community.
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MILLS 50
THE SUNROOM |
PHOTO BY JAMES HAND
neighborhoods
TORI TORI | PHOTO BY ROB BARTLETT
T
he urban neighborhood named after its central intersection of Mills Avenue and Colonial Drive (aka State Road 50) and taking in Colonialtown, Park Lake Highland and Hillcrest has been a vibrant gem of Orlando for decades. Vietnamese immigrants settling in Orlando in the late 1970s gave the area much of its character, opening up grocery stores, shops and amazing restaurants up and down the streets, turning the area into a bustling commercial district. More businesses and a whole lot of nightlife destinations settled in over the intervening years, giving Mills 50 more than its fair share of buzz. It’s a unique mix of longtime neighborhood landmarks and new enterprises, hip restaurants and arty havens, a melting pot that captures the unique spirit of Orlando.
The Mayor
canopy outward naturally, and reach out to wiggle its branches freely.
This 200-year-old live oak outside the Mennello Museum dubbed “The Mayor” is one of the oldest trees in the area and is a testament to its species. Live oak limbs grow upward and outward as they get older, touching down to the ground for added support and then curling back up into the air, creating a dome of resurrection-fern-filled goodness. This is one of the few trees of its type in the city that has had enough uninterrupted space to extend its
Total Will’s
daily selling beer to go as well as T-shirts bearing the Uncle Lou’s logo, likely to become as ubiquitous locally as CBGB T-shirts are to New York City – except Lou’s is still open.
Uncle Lou’s
The Center Orlando
Usually a bustling haven for live music and general revelry, Will’s Pub has pivoted to become the cheekily named Total Will’s, a spot to purchase low-priced packaged spirits and bottled cocktails, also the occasional site of livestreamed concerts. Orlando underground landmark Lou’s is open a few hours
The LGBTQ+ support center is busier than ever, having added on-site COVID-19 testing for a time to the array of services offered to the community. Still offering counseling, free HIV and hepatitis C testing, career services, discussion groups and so, so much more.
Loch Haven Park, 900 E. Princeton St.
1042 N. Mills Ave., willspub.org 1016 N. Mills Ave.
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946 N. Mills Ave., thecenterorlando.org
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MILLS 50 Remix Record Shop 1213 N. Mills Ave., remixrecordshop.com
Neighborhood record emporium is still truckin’ (unhip Grateful Dead reference pulled from the proverbial bargain bin) with a steady stream of new releases landing in the shop and a mountain of used vinyl that includes more than a few very equitably priced treasures.
Tori Tori
720 N. Mills Ave., toritoripub.com
Though Tori Tori’s owners took pains to point out that they were primarily a cocktail bar, not a restaurant,
neighborhoods
when they opened up on Mills back in November, this OW Top Table of 2019 still impresses big-time with their food game. Even better, that aforementioned food menu is available on a to-go basis.
Dong-A Market 816 N. Mills Ave.
The 10,000-square-foot Asian supermarket and Mills 50 mainstay is a great local place to go for fresh produce, meat, seafood, spices and seasoning, sundries and candy. It’s a perfect time to reacquaint yourself with this store as an alternative to the big chains. THE LGBT CENTER
THE MAYOR, IN LOCH HAVEN ON THE GROUNDS OF THE MENNELLO MUSEUM | PHOTO BY ROB BARTLETT
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IVANHOE VILLAGE
neighborhoods Rock & Roll Heaven 1814 N. Orange Ave. rock-n-rollheaven.com
The Heaven is like this weird pop/ rock culture time capsule stuffed to the gills with records, CDs, tapes, memorabilia, toys, posters, buttons and stereo equipment. There’s really nothing else like it. Dig deep.
Gaston Edwards Park 1236 N. Orange Ave. orlando.gov
Locals love this park for its waterfront location with grilling area, playground, fitness stations, volleyball courts and linkages to the Orlando Urban Trail. ROCK & ROLL HEAVEN | PHOTO BY JASON GREENE
W
e swear this is true: The area around Lake Ivanhoe, on the north side of Orlando’s downtown, was a booming pineapple farm at the end of the 1800s. Entrepreneur George I. Russell, who settled near the lake, cultivated both the varieties that already grew here and plants from Hawaii and Puerto Rico. Eventually, Russell’s pineapple farm grew to more than 20 acres. Once trade opened with Cuba, the pineapple trade died out, and Russell opened a water park, called Russell’s Point (later renamed Joyland), in 1910. Now, Ivanhoe Village is home to Orlando’s arts and culture district, lively bars, casual restaurants, antique and vintage shopping and more.
Ivanhoe Row
1211-1235 N. Orange Ave. ivanhoevillage.org
The Imperial Wine Bar at Washburn Imports
The quaint stucco buildings directly across from Gaston Edwards Park house a multitude of different entertainments, including the Hammered Lamb, Yay! Tiny Shop, Jarboe Boutique, Tim’s Wine Market, Oxford Eyes optical shop, The East Tattoo shop and more.
1800 N. Orange Ave. imperialwinebar.com
Does it get more indie Orlando than a wine bar in a furniture store? John Washburn turned a corner in 2010 and the patio of his home-goods store into a wine bar and beer garden featuring 35 wines and 35 beers, plus a selection of small plates.
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Loch Haven Cultural Campus Various locations
In and around Loch Haven Park on the east side of Princeton Street are many of the cultural centers Orlandoans know and love. The Orlando Science Center, Lowndes Shakespeare Center, Orlando Museum of Art, Orlando Repertory Theatre, Mennello Museum of American Art and Orlando Ballet are all located in this corridor.
Orlando Fire Museum 814 E. Rollins St. orlandofiremuseum.org
Learn the history of Orlando’s Fire Department in the redbrick firehouse, formerly known as Station 3, in Loch Haven Park. Check out the museum’s pride and joy, a restored 1926 American LaFrance fire engine.
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COLLEGE PARK
neighborhoods Kerouac House 1418 Clouser Ave. kerouacproject.org
From 1957-1958, Beat writer Jack Kerouac lived, worked and (ahem) drank at the bungalow on Clouser Avenue in College Park, where he stayed with his mother. There, he wrote the original manuscript for Dharma Bums, making the cozy cottage a haven for the literary set. The back bedroom is arranged much the same as Kerouac left it.
HISTORIC PUBLIX | PHOTO BY HANNAH GLOGOWER
J
ust northwest of downtown, College Park is named for the neighborhood’s residential streets, many of which bear the moniker of colleges and universities like Yale, Harvard and Vassar. Citrus entrepreneur John Ericsson built the first home at 19 W. Princeton St., but the Great Freeze of 1894 stopped College Park’s development in its tracks. College Park has been home to some notable names, including astronaut John Young and Beat writer Jack Kerouac, and has been Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer’s home base for more than 20 years – a hell of an endorsement. Plans are afoot for a massive mixed-use development called the Packing District at the intersection of Orange Blossom Trail and Princeton Street, but things have slowed a bit on that front – we’ll check in with you on that next year.
Historic Publix Supermarket
2015 Edgewater Drive publix.com
You could shop at any Publix – or any other grocery store, for that matter – but the one at 2015 Edgewater Drive is pretty special. Built in 1950, the store’s architecture is the draw, recalling the streamlined, neon-lined, midcentury vibe of the era.
Crawl the boutiques Various locations mycpna.org
All along Edgewater Drive, you’ll find a bevy of boutiques full of houseplants, home décor, gifts and antique finds. Pick your way through nifty gifts at Good Crowd and vinyl at Foundation Records, find the perfect secondhand accent at All the Right Stuff or Top Drawer Consignments, or be beguiled by brilliant estate baubles at Stewart Jewelry, open since 1946. orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 25
Dubsdread Golf Course & Tap Room at Dubsdread 549 W. Par St. historicaldubsdread.com
This golf course is one of Central Florida’s originals, founded in 1924 and renovated in 2008. The on-site restaurant, Tap Room at Dubsdread, is a popular eatery after hitting the links, and is open to non-golfers who want to try the locally famous burger.
Edible Education Experience at the Emeril Lagasse Kitchen House & Culinary Garden 26 E. King St. edibleed.org
Chef Emeril Lagasse cut the ribbon himself at the Kitchen House & Culinary Garden, which sits across from Orlando Junior Academy and regularly serves its students as a hub for children to learn about where food comes from and how to cook it. Monthly programs such as Culinary Curiosities and Chef Night are open to the public.
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AUDUBON PARK & BALDWIN PARK
neighborhoods Places, and was home to only four families between the years the Mizell family staked their claim in 1858 until Harry P. Leu donated the house and grounds to the city in 1961. The Leus, who purchased the home in 1936, traveled widely and brought back exotic plants for their garden, now a 50-acre floral jewel in Orlando’s crown.
East End Market 3201 Corrine Drive eastendmkt.com
Orlando’s first food hub, community space, neighborhood market and culinary incubator, East End Market is where locals gather on weekends to sit in the vegetable garden and enjoy some of the area’s best artisan bites from Hinckley’s Fancy Meats, La Femme du Fromage and Gideon’s Bakehouse, among many others.
Palmer’s Garden & Goods LAKE BALDWIN | PHOTO BY ROB BARTLETT
T
he Audubon Park neighborhood was developed in the 1950s and 1960s, built around and serving the nearby Orlando Air Force Base and later the Naval Training Center. Leafy streets named after birds are lined with midcentury bungalows, home to young families. Baldwin Park, while just as family-friendly, meanwhile, popped up almost full-blown where the aforementioned NTC once stood in the early 2000s, envisioned by city leaders as a tastefully dense cluster of walkable houses and townhouses with a mixeduse town center. Both communities now boast bustling food and dining scenes, vintage and maker boutiques, and plenty of natural beauty.
Lake Baldwin Park 2000 S. Lakemont Ave., Winter Park cityofwinterpark.org
gas-engine boats, as well as 25 picnic tables and public restrooms.
Located on more than 23 acres bordering Lake Baldwin, the park is one of only two with a sandy beach on site, and it’s off-leash dog-friendly during the hours of 8 a.m. to sunset. Pavilions are available for reservation, and there’s a boat ramp and dock for kayaks, canoes and non-
Harry P. Leu Gardens, Leu House Museum & Mizell Cemetery 1920 N. Forest Ave. leugardens.org
The restored 19th-century home is listed on the National Register of Historic
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2611 Corrine Drive palmersgarden.com
Near the intersection of Bumby and Corrine, Palmer’s Garden & Goods is a locally owned spot to wander amongst the flowers and fill your garden with all that blooms – as well as garden decor and patio accents. The shop also offers landscaping and gardening services, and the staff are extra-knowledgeable.
New Broad Street dining district
Various locations on New Broad Street, Baldwin Park
Turn off Bennett Road onto New Broad Street and feast your eyes on the multimillion-dollar mansions on your way to the shopping and dining district that ends at the shore of Lake Baldwin. Make dinner reservations at the Osprey or Seito Sushi, munch a croissant from Café 906, or wipe the sweat from your brow while sampling Sichuan dishes from Taste of Chengdu (fingers crossed that chef Tiger Tang puts the final touches on this location soon).
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MILK DISTRICT
neighborhoods
MURAL ON THE SIDE OF THE T.G. LEE DAIRY FACING ROBINSON STREET | PHOTO COURTESY MILK DISTRICT
I
n a sequestered neighborhood just east of Thornton Park is the Milk District, a short-but-sweet spot in town named for its proximity to the cow-topped T.G. Lee Dairy. Long before the Milk District became a hipster hangout, Orlandoan T.G. Lee started his dairy empire with two cows and a calf. By 1925, the T.G. Lee plant opened its doors, processing local milk from grazing cows in nearby pastures. These days you’ll find laid-back beer bars, a longrunning gay nightclub, inventive restaurants, vintage shopping and darts aplenty. New restaurants and bars open all the time in this fast-gentrifying patch, but the old standards remain … and the cow stays in the picture.
À La Cart
ball”) fans, the Bull & Bush has a devoted following.
In a world of takeout and outdoors dining, gourmet food trucks have really hit a stride. This food truck park hosts a rotating list of vendors, and has a comfy place for patrons to sit and a bar fully stocked with beer taps.
Etoile Boutique
609 Irvington Ave. alacartorlando.com
The Bull & Bush 2408 E. Robinson St.
2424 E. Robinson St. etoileboutique.com
Owner Falon Quillen has made her boutique a necessary stop for vintage clothing and unique jewelry. Perhaps the longest-shining gem in this neighborhood, the store recently expanded in size and boasts a robust online shopping operation.
Before the Milk District even was the Milk District, the Bull & Bush British Pub was there, slinging the Orlando Executive best pints of Guinness in town Airport since 1987. Popular with darts 365 Rickenbacker Drive players and soccer (sorry, “foot-
orlandoairports.net
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Police and medical helicopters and banner-pulling biplanes rub wings with charter planes and private jets at the Executive Airport, just three miles from downtown (or strolling distance from the Milk District). If you’re going to meet a millionaire in this neighborhood, it’s here.
Orlando Festival Park 2911 E. Robinson St. cityoforlando.net
Usually the site of festivals and events every weekend in nice weather, Festival Park has been a little forlorn of late. But the sand volleyball courts are still there, and you can pick up the 12-mile Lake Underhill Path here.
Pom Pom’s Teahouse & Sandwicheria 67 N. Bumby Ave. pompomsteahouse.com
Devour conceptual sandwiches like Mama Ling’s Thanksgiving: turkey, gouda, stuffing, gingercranberry chutney, and mashed potatoes – with a side of gravy.
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SODO
neighborhoods
online. Though new concerts may be on pause as of this writing, Glazer is hard at work improving the sound and lighting and making it possible for musicians to record there as well.
Cypress Grove Park 290 Holden Ave. orangecountyfl.net
The renovated 1925 estate house at Cypress Grove is a favorite for lakeside weddings, but the park itself is open to the public daily, and features fishing, a playground, walking trails and pavilion available for rental.
Greenwood Cemetery PULSE SITE MEMORIAL | IMAGE COURTESY ONEPULSE FOUNDATION
S
hort for “south of downtown,” the SoDo District is the business counterpart to residential Delaney Park, known for its walkabout parks, lakes and brick streets lined with historic and restored homes. Orlando Health has served as a mainstay of the area since 1918 (though under different names), and while chain restaurants are the main investors in the area, small businesses pop up regularly, lending diversity to dining and shopping options.
Pulse Memorial
1912 S. Orange Ave. onepulsefoundation.org
In the small hours of June 12, 2016, Orlando was brought to its knees by the act of terrorism that took 49 lives. In the four years since the tragedy, the site of the mass shooting has undergone several permutations – the most recent, a memorial photo collage of images, art and commemorations of the lives lost.
Timucua Arts Foundation
2000 S. Summerlin Ave. timucua.com
The home of Benoit Glazer and family doubles as a beautiful and intimate and utterly unique concert venue that redefines the very notion of a “house show.” The nonprofit Timucua has hosted adventurous music across genres, often simulcasting these events orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 31
1603 Greenwood St. orlando.gov
First established in 1880, Greenwood Cemetery features scenic views and historically important gravesites including names locals know recognize: T.G. Lee, Mayor Bob Carr, Capt. James Parramore and Joseph Bumby, among others. Former cemetery sexton Don Price offers moonlight walking tours.
The Aardvark
2610 S. Ferncreek Ave. theaardvarkfl.com
It’s still a neighborhood beer store, stocking bottles and cans from local breweries, as well as wine and gifts, but now the spot is home to a restaurant and bar serving “gulf-to-grill” and “groveto-stove” plates.
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WINTER PARK
KNOWLES CHAPEL AT ROLLINS | PHOTO BY HANNAH GLOGOWER
neighborhoods
PARK AVENUE IN WINTER PARK | PHOTO BY BARRY KIRSCH
W
inter Park is a city steeped in history everywhere you turn, from the Rollins College campus to Central Park to the vibrant streets of historically Black neighborhood Hannibal Square. And, as the first Black incorporated municipality in Florida, nearby Eatonville has an independent streak going back to its very beginnings in the 1800s. Though College Park has the Kerouac House, Eatonville can boast of being the hometown of literary titan Zora Neale Hurston, site of the annual Zora! Festival and a cultural hub worth a visit any time of the year. Ritzy Winter Park and restaurant-heavy Maitland are prime destinations for locals wanting a quality meal, world-class museums and fancy shopping. All three neighborhoods always seem to have something new cooking.
Enzian Theater
1300 Orlando Ave., Maitland, enzian.org
The arthouse cinema/bistro is open for business and pushing forward with screenings and some special programming like themed classics series and the Florida Film Festival. Pairing that with a robust campaign of streaming screenings and rentals of adventurous new fare is a canny move, too. The adjoining Eden Bar is a beautiful outdoors spot to enjoy a bite and a beverage.
WPRK
91.5-FM, wprk.org
It’s been a turbulent couple of years for the best in basement radio and the voice of Rollins College.
Repeated moves and temporary homes had finally come to an end with a move into a gorgeous stateof-the-art new studio … and then the pandemic hit. The station is still plugging away, with hosts sending in their playlists remotely for the city to enjoy. So while it’s not quite up to full, eclectic strength, it’s still a relief to hear WPRK on the FM dial.
SkyCraft Parts & Surplus 2245 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, skycraftsurplus.com
Despite some chatter last year that they were moving, the Winter Park standby is open and ready to fill your needs for electronics, hardware, tools, circuitry and all manner of orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 33
mad-scientist worthy gear you didn’t even think you needed. Do your DIY repair shopping here.
BAMF Comics & Collectibles
500 E. Horatio Ave., Maitland, bamfcomicstore.com
Maitland comics and coffee clearinghouse par excellence is still continuing much the same as always – though they have shifted most of their innovative store events and programming online. The wellcurated selection of comics new and old, gaming supplies and toys is continuously growing, and they are open for in-person shopping or curbside pickup.
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WINTER PARK Teak Neighborhood Grill
The Ravenous Pig
565 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, theravenouspig.com
901 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland, teakorlando.com
With the June addition of new executive chef Clay Miller (formerly of Dovecote), the well-loved gastropub looks to be starting a new chapter, but still offering the same nouveau American cuisine and drinks, either in-person or to-go.
Maitland burger haven teak has been getting a lot of televised attention lately: a segment of Food Paradise and a spot on Travel Channel’s “50 States of Burgers.” And now that the word’s out on their second, “secret” menu, you have twice as many reasons to visit for some to-go dinner.
Winter Park Farmers’ Market
The New Standard 1035 Orlando Ave., Winter Park, newstandardwp.com
When it opened last year in the Ravaudage complex, the New Standard concert venue/eatery promised to set a, well, new standard for live music in the Orlando area with state-of-the-art sound and lights and a busy live music calendar. For now, the restaurant is still going strong, there’s been a robust livestream schedule and it looks like some dinner shows are in the works. Also: lovely batch cocktails to go!
Central Park West Meadow, New York Avenue and Morse Boulevard, Winter Park, cityofwinterpark.org
Being outdoors is where it’s at these days, as is supporting local merchants, vendors and farmers. You can do both those things at this outdoor weekend market, and be assured of freshness of product and quality more than at a big box store.
Rifle Paper Co.
558 New England Ave., Winter Park, riflepaperco.com
This ground zero for an endless array
neighborhoods of aesthetically pleasing stationery, cards, journals and more is definitely worth a visit. Plus now is a great time to actually start writing letters (in style) again. Recently Rifle was in the news for donating their fabric to Orlando Face Mask Strong to make masks for caregivers.
Soul Food Fantasy 521 E. Kennedy Blvd., Eatonville
Specializing in good old BBQ, seafood and Southern specialties, Soul Food Fantasy offers a variety of stellar comfort food for anyone with an appetite for home cooking.
DaJen Eats
323 E. Kennedy Blvd., Eatonville, dajeneats.com
If you didn’t think it was possible to enjoy the delicious island flavors of Jamaica in vegan dishes, DaJen Eats will prove you wrong. Owner Jenn Ross, a self-described “happy, irie vegan,” impresses with a menu that includes chick’n and biscuits, vegan rice bowls, “hoax tails” and dairyfree ice cream.
HANNIBAL SQUARE COMMUNITY PRIDE MOSAIC, 721 W. NEW ENGLAND AVE. |
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PHOTO COURTESY VISIT FLORIDA
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CURRY FORD
neighborhoods crunchwrap from Leguminati without even leaving the Social House.
Clemons Produce 325 Curry Ford Road
Indie before it was cool, longtime local grocer Clemons stocks fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, bread, dairy, spices, meats and more in the Dover Springs Shopping Plaza strip mall. Even better, most items are locally sourced and can be had for great prices.
Hourglass Park 1800 Carlton Drive orangecountyfl.net
The two bodies of water connected by a short, narrow canal known as Lake Hourglass (that’s where they get the name!) has a lovely adjoining little park, perfect for kayaking and fishing, or just sitting and taking in all the natural sights. The park also features a playground and an open field.
Lake Underhill Park 4355 Lake Underhill Road orlando.gov LEGUMINATI CRUNCHWRAP | PHOTO BY ROB BARTLETT
C
onway Road was one of the very first paved highways in Orange County, running along what is now Briercliff Drive, Curry Ford Road and Conway Road, ending at Anderson Road in the neighborhood’s center. The area was originally settled in the 1850s and is now hotting up with local favorites for food and beverages, as well as new developments anchored by Lake Hourglass. There’s a move afoot to rename the ’hood the Hourglass District, but old habits die hard in Curry Ford.
The Lake Underhill Loop trail is 1.3 miles around, and continues in both directions to connect to Festival Park, Orlando Skate Park, Kittinger Park and Park of the Americas. The trail is equipped with fitness stations and is a favorite spot for boaters, birdwatchers and anglers.
Barber Park
3701 Gatlin Ave. orangecountyfl.net
Hourglass bar-hop
Various locations on Curry Ford Road
All within the same corner of Bumby Avenue and Curry Ford Road, you’ll only need to cross one street to hop to several watering holes in the
neighborhood, including Hourglass Social House, Hourglass Brewing and Claddagh Cottage. Hungry? F&D Woodfired Italian Kitchen has quality carbs to quell tomorrow’s hangover, Cilantro’s Taqueria has the handheld goodness, or choose between tamales from Tamale Co. and a vegan orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 41
Outfitted with basketball, baseball, volleyball and pickleball courts, plus a roller hockey rink and skateboarding area, Barber Park is a recreation paradise. There’s also a fishing area and off-leash dog park, along with walking trails, picnic areas and playground.
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UCF
neighborhoods
THE REFLECTING POND AT UCF
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hat the University of Central Florida lacks in ivy-walled gravitas, it more than compensates for in sheer size. It’s pretty much the largest university in the nation – that official title gets traded among UCF, Texas A&M and Ohio State from year to year – with a whopping 70,000 students, plus more than 13,500 faculty and staff. So it’s no surprise this side of town is pretty much all gown, not so much town. The university was founded in 1963 at the height of the space race, with the express mission of training personnel for the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral and its motto remains “Reach for the stars,” though these days the stars are as likely to be gifted football players like the Griffin brothers as Mars and the moon.
University of Central Florida
4000 Central Florida Blvd., ucf.edu Designed in a pattern of concentric circles, the layout of UCF’s main campus is said to have been influenced by Walt Disney’s plans for Epcot. With 55,000 undergraduates, at certain points of the day an aerial view would surely more resemble an anthill. As well as its students and faculty, the campus serves Orlando with prestigious art shows and concerts in its schools of visual arts and music, respectively – just pop half a Xanax before you try to park if you don’t have a permit sticker.
WMFE Studios
11510 E. Colonial Drive, wmfe.org
It’s not really open to the public, but UCF Arboretum if you’ve ever wondered where the ingenious local programming of the arboretum.ucf.edu Orlando area’s NPR affiliate originates, More than half of UCF’s 1,100this is where the magic comes from.
Waterford Lakes Town Center 413 N. Alafaya Trail, waterfordlakestowncenter.com
Starbucks, Sephora and Sunglass Hut: Waterford Lakes is the quintessential American shopping center. And for the student population of UCF, that’s a convenient and sometimes comforting thing. Scattered among the chain restaurants catering to timid freshmen’s palates are some second locations of local favorites like Domu Chibi Ramen, MX Tacos and Zaza New Cuban Diner – worth seeking out.
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acre footprint is protected wetlands, under the oversight of the St. Johns River Water Management District. The 80-acre Arboretum is a research and education center, but also open to the public during daylight hours. The area comprises several types of native Florida habitat, including a cypress dome, oak hammock, sand pine scrub and longleaf pine flatwoods. Like much of natural Florida, the beauty is in the details rather than the general scene, and observant visitors may spot wild orchids, pitcher plants, sundews, bladderwort, lobelia, mint, tarflowers and wild blueberries.
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I-DRIVE
neighborhoods but whether you plan to visit the parks or not, it’s the new place to book that staycation this year. The hotel is all about wellness, and features a pool with splash pad, a rooftop terrace and numerous in-house dining options.
Shingle Creek Trail
Trailhead: 5165 Metrowest Blvd. orlando.gov Shingle Creek’s trailhead starts at Eagle’s Nest Park and connects Orlando, Orange County, Osceola County and Kissimmee. The trail features a two-mile loop around Lake Fran, as well as two overlook points near Sand Lake Road for wildlife spotting.
Discovery Cove
6000 Discovery Cove Way discoverycove.com
B
THE WHEEL AT ICON PARK
efore Walt Disney World was even a magical glimmer in the eye of its developer, the land between what would be the “Most Magical Place on Earth” and Downtown Orlando was basically swamp. Once WDW became a reality, it was clear that visitors would need a place to stay closer to the theme park. The first hotel on International Drive was completed one year before Disney World opened its doors in 1971. Now, International Drive and the Orlando tourism corridor are home to more than 1,000 hotels, plus more attractions and dining than you can shake a pair of mouse ears at.
Icon Park
8375 International Drive iconparkorlando.com
Since its grand opening in 2015, Icon Park has had almost as many names as the number of years it’s been in operation. The centerpiece is the 400 foot-tall “Wheel at Icon Park,” known locally as the Orlando Eye, but the
complex also features shopping, dining, nightlife and other diversions.
JW Marriott Bonnet Creek
14900 Chelonia Pkwy. marriott.com
Orlando’s second JW Marriott is located right on Disney property, orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 45
Call it the anti-theme park. Imagine all the fun you can possibly have in a swimsuit – floating along a lazy river, snorkeling a coral reef, diving with sharks, swimming with dolphins, lazing in a cabana – without any of the standing in line. Food and beverages included.
Disney Springs levels up
1486 Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista disneysprings.com
Exciting new operating partners are making their way to Disney Springs over the next year, including upscale quick-service coffee hub Beatrix, and some locals have entered the mix: Gideon’s Bakehouse (launched at Audubon Park’s East End Market) announced their second location to open here later this year.
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SANFORD
neighborhoods history, but in 2009, the Goldsboro West Side Community Historical Association joined together to preserve and celebrate the region’s African American roots. The facility on 13th Street, aka Historic Goldsboro Boulevard, hosts art, artifacts and historical archives, along with an organic garden.
Historic Downtown Sanford
First Street, Sanford historicdowntownsanford.com Though the city is largely residential, the historic downtown is home to art galleries, antique shops, dining and nightlife, theater, and a Saturdaymorning farmers market.
Hollerbach’s Willow Tree Rooftop
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here the St. Johns River meets the southern shore of Lake Monroe, Sanford mixes old Central Florida charm with the vibrancy of a city very much on the move. Their historic downtown has exploded of late with a wealth of creative dining and drinking options, as well as art, music and culture. From the marina to the quaint commercial district to the leafy residential areas, Sanford’s renaissance is no longer just a fiercely guarded secret among locals.
Black Bear Wilderness Area
5301 Michigan Ave., Sanford seminolecountyfl.gov Covering approximately 1,600 acres of northwest Seminole County, the wilderness area features wetland habitat and hosts wildlife like the swallow-tailed kite, white-tailed deer, and, of course, the black bear. A loop trail rambles along the river with gorgeous natural views aplenty.
Goldsboro Museum
1211 W. 13th St., Sanford goldsboromuseum.com In 1891, Goldsboro became the second all-Black incorporated township within the United States, founded by William Clark (brother of Joe Clark, one of the founders of Eatonville, the first incorporated all-Black township in the United States, 20 miles away). In 1911 Goldsboro was cheated of its charter in a shameful moment of orlando weekly | city guide | neighborhoods | 49
205 E. First St., Sanford hollerbachs.com Almost a year in the making, the expansion of popular German bierhaus Hollerbach’s Willow Tree Café is finally complete, with the rooftop beer garden and second-floor dining area opening this summer. We may not be ready for shoulder-to-shoulder beer drinking just yet, but we’re looking forward to it with great anticipation.
Foodie faves Various locations Celery City Craft Beer Garden, named for the city’s connection to the celery farms of the 1890s, has more than 50 beers on tap. Buster’s Bistro serves up Belgian beers and frites. Wondermade has you covered for handcrafted marshmallows and ice cream. Or make a reservation at the Smiling Bison gastropub, the Old Jailhouse, the Tennessee Truffle or any of several dynamic dining options – check Orlando Weekly’s restaurant listings for more.
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ROAD TRIPS 2020:
GET IN THE VAN
Vacations this year are … well, not easy. At press time and for who knows until when, many countries are closed to American travelers – and many states are closed to Floridians, unless you’re up for a 14-day quarantine first. That makes road trips your most likely option for any kind of getaway fun.
But even there, who feels 100 percent safe in a hotel room? So: Camping it is. Pack up that tent, or if you’re not quite that gung-ho about sleeping on the ground, look into renting an RV or camper. If #vanlife is good enough for thousands of hot young Instagrammers, it’s good enough for us.
We’ve highlighted three of our favorite Florida cities this year, making sure to choose those with state parks that welcome campers. At present, no walk-in overnight stays are allowed, so you’ll need to plan ahead and reserve a place to pitch your tent or park up.
MICANOPY
PHOTO BY ALICIA WELLMAN
Though it’s just 15 minutes south of Gainesville, Micanopy feels miles and decades away. The tree-lined streets are canopied with Spanish moss; the green light that filters through it roams over historic buildings housing quirky antique stores and junk shops. (Thirty-eight of those buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places.) The immortal Michael J. Fox classic Doc Hollywood was filmed here, among countless other films, and once you see the town, you’ll understand why. If you ever sobbed over The Yearling, Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings’ evergreen novel of if-you-love-something, shoot-
PHOTO BY BRYAN KATZ
it-in-the-neck, you’re acquainted with Cross Creek. Rawlings immortalized this
Micanopy, visitmicanopy.com Paynes Prairie Preserve, floridastateparks.org Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park, 18700 S. County Road 325, Cross Creek
Cracker settlement just outside Micanopy in The Yearling and South Moon Under, as well as a memoir and cookbook both named Cross Creek. Her house and farm 52 | road trips | city guide | orlando weekly
are preserved as a time capsule of rural Florida; even if the museum is closed, you can still wander the grounds (and it’s pretty easy to peek in some of the windows). Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is a 21,000-acre freshwater marsh purchased by the state in 1970 for wetlands restoration. Low-lying areas host cypress, longleaf pine, swamp tupelo and cypress along mysterious blackwater streams, while the higher points are sunny hammocks and sandhills. Herds of wild horses and even bison roam the savannah, and the park is one of Florida’s premier birding sites, home to more than 300 species.
APALACHICOLA
Overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, Apalachicola is a laid-back little fishing town that boasts the best seafood in Florida, and some of the best oysters in the country. (Sadly, those oysters are off the menu for the next five years as of the week we went to press, as the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission attempts to revive the over-harvested wild mollusks.) In town, you’ll find restaurants and breweries, historic Victorian houses and tin-roofed warehouses, and even a museum dedicated to the patron saint of Florida: John Gorrie, who invented the ice machine that was the basis of blessed, blessed air conditioning. But this year,
we’re focusing on the outdoorsy stuff, not the bars and restaurants and museums, charming though they may be. And St. George Island is one of the most beautiful places to camp – or simply spend a beach day – you might ever find. On the Gulf side of this barrier island, sugar-white sand and azure water; on the bay side, marsh scrub and pine forest. Best of all, there’s so little light pollution that it’s the best place to see stars in Florida. Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park (whew) closes at sundown, unless you’ve reserved a campsite, so you’ll need to do that.
road trips
The Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve Nature Center (double whew) is closed as of press time, but may have reopened since, if you need a little air conditioning and some aquarium browsing at toddler’s-eye height. But the trails are still open, and offer glorious selected views of the reserve’s 246,000 acres. The Florida National Scenic Trail winds through the palmetto flatwoods and cypress swamps of the adjoining Apalachicola River Wildlife and Environmental Area. You have the potential here to check red-cockaded woodpeckers, osprey, bald eagles, turkeys, alligators and bears off your wildlife bingo card.
Apalachicola, downtownapalachicola.com Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park, 1900 E. Gulf Beach Drive, St. George Island, floridastateparks.org; camping reservations, floridastateparks. reserveamerica.com Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve Nature Center, 108 Island Drive (State Road 300) at Cat Point, Eastpoint, apalachicolareserve.com Apalachicola River Wildlife and Environmental Area, myfwc.com APALACHICOLA OYSTERS
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FLAGLER BEACH
road trips
FLAGLER BEACH PIER
Sun bunnies: Flagler Beach offers six miles of cinnamon-red coquina sand facing the Atlantic Ocean, and there’s nary a highrise hotel in sight. The old-fashioned pier stretches out over the water, casting sundappled shade beneath; up top, there’s no alcohol allowed, but you can watch for dolphins, pelicans, even right whales between December and March. Best of all, the beaches are pet-friendly and the parking is free.
If you do decide to vanlife it, Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area has 34 beach-dune campsites and 34 sites on the Matanzas River side of the long, skinny barrier island. The beach here is quiet and windswept, good for surfing and shell-hunting. Canoe and kayak rentals are available and the Intracoastal Waterway is yours for the exploration. Exhale: You’re on vacation.
Flagler Beach, visitflagler.com Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area, 3100 S. Oceanshore Blvd., Flagler Beach, floridastateparks.org; camping reservations, floridastateparks. reserveamerica.com
PHOTO BY RACHEL KRAMER
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MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE
listings
LIVE MUSIC AT THE BEACHAM | PHOTO COURTESY THE BEACHAM
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rlando’s vibrant local music scene – bands, venues, and touring acts – is on pause. Local venues were among the first businesses to be shuttered as the coronavirus spread, and they will also, sadly, be among the last to reopen whenever we return to a semblance of normalcy. For now, musicians are doing the best they can to keep some momentum going with virtual shows and releasing new recorded material. There are live music and nightlife events scheduled in various venues late in the year, but it’s anyone’s guess whether these will happen (fingers firmly crossed). If you’re a fan of a particular musician or band, buy their merchandise online. If a local venue is doing package or merchandise sales, ditto.
Addition Financial Arena 12777 N. Gemini Blvd., additionfiarena.com
The former CFE Arena on the UCF campus is more than just a student venue: It seats roughly 10,000 and hosts pop, rock and hip-hop, as well as comedy and other events.
Amway Center 400 W. Church St., amwaycenter.com
Countless big-name national acts have all made the Amway a tour stop – not to mention a
red-hot selection of young Latin music superstars and comedians – and this big-league arena is also home to the Magic and the Solar Bears, only a few steps from downtown.
The Beacham
46 N. Orange Ave., thebeacham.com
The downtown concert venue provides a much-needed home for larger-scale shows and DJ nights in the center of the city. The open floor provides multiple pathways to edge your way 58 | listings | city guide | orlando weekly
up to the front, though good luck navigating tightly packed crowds.
Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts
1905 Kentucky Ave., Winter Park, bluebambooartcenter.com
Triple-threat performance space/ art gallery/recording studio hosts the full sonic spectrum of jazz, classical and world music, as well as theater and literary events.
CityWalk at Universal 6000 Universal Studios Plaza,universalorlando.com
This no-cover complex of bars and clubs tucked away within the Universal Studios sprawl offers plenty of opportunity for a little more grownup-oriented fun outside the province of Harry Potter and the Incredible Hulk.
Hard Rock Live
6050 Universal Blvd., hardrock.com/live
Venture deep into the heart of Universal’s CityWalk entertainment complex for entertainment that straddles big-time, nostalgic and next-bigthing all at once.
House of Blues
1490 E. Buena Vista Drive, houseofblues.com
Shows may start on the early side, but that’s the only overt sign that this concert venue is in Disney Springs. The sightlines and sound system are recommended.
Independent Bar
70 N. Orange Ave., facebook.com/ independentbarorlando
Downtown’s I-Bar is the destination of choice for those who want a little something more indie from their nightclub adventures.
Parliament House
410 N. Orange Blossom Trail, parliamenthouse.com
Veteran gay nightclub and resort hosts a nonstop cavalcade of drag shows, cabaret and even theatrical performances, though arguably the main attraction is the packed dance floor.
The Plaza Live
425 N. Bumby Ave., plazaliveorlando.org
This Milk District mainstay hosts shows by the Orlando Phil’s smaller ensembles plus a wide-
A FULL HOUSE AT THE BEACHAM | PHOTO COURTESY THE BEACHAM
ranging slate of ’80s icons, guitar legends and comics.
The Social
54 N. Orange Ave., thesocial.org
Mainstay downtown venue is the very definition of “intimate”; most nights this small room is packed to the gills with the devoted, straining to get as close as possible to their favorite touring artist.
Southern Nights 375 S. Bumby Ave., facebook.com/ southernnightsorlando
Longstanding LGBTQ+ dance shangri-la has been holding it down for years with a strong calendar of drag shows and dance nights. And the crowds keep pouring in.
Stardust Video and Coffee 1842 E. Winter Park Road, facebook.com/stardustie
This College Park eatery/bar also plays host to a wide array of leftfield music events. orlando weekly | city guide | listings | 59
Timucua Arts Foundation
2000 S. Summerlin Ave.,timucua.com
A truly unique live music experience. Tucked away in an unassuming South Orlando neighborhood, the big white house offers incredible natural acoustics, a near cathedral-like setting and an adventurous event slate.
Wall Street Plaza
25 Wall St., wallstplaza.net
Seven clubs congregate on one entire block of prime downtown real estate given over to the Wall Street complex, a nightly magnet for anybody ready for some drinking and mingling. Weekends are delightful madness.
Will’s Pub
1042 N. Mills Ave., willspub.org
The Will’s/Lil’ Indies/Dirty Laundry compound is an essential component of both local scene-building and providing a stage to touring acts of all adventurous stripes. The event calendar often reads like a genre collage, and that’s a very good thing.
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SPORTS & RECREATION
listings
JUNIPER SPRINGS
2
020 is definitely the year to focus on the recreation half of the “Sports & Rec” duo. As we go to press, the MLS and NBA are both playing games in their respective bubbles right here in Orlando, but past that, absolutely nothing is guaranteed as far as seasons and play for the rest of the year. But just because professional and student athletes might not be able to go for the gold, nothing is stopping you. There is an absolute bounty of parks, bike and hiking trails, and springs for you to explore, get some exercise on, and forget how garbage 2020 is in a rush of endorphins and/or cool spring water. Fresh air and wide open spaces are this year’s MVPs, so get in on that action.
LOCAL TEAMS
Orlando City Soccer Club Major League Soccer orlandocitysc.com
Orlando Magic NBA basketball
Orlando Solar Bears East Coast Hockey League orlandosolarbearshockey.com
UCF Knights NCAA Football ucfathletics.com
orlandomagic.com
Orlando Pride Soccer Club National Women’s Soccer League orlandocitysc.com
Orlando Roller Derby WFTDA Roller Derby orlandorollerderby.com
PARKS
BMX track, a fitness center, a dog park, golf areas, softball fields and more, making it an essential location for any outdoors enthusiasts.
Bill Frederick Park 3401 S. Hiawassee Road, orlando.gov
The biggest park in Metrowest covers 183 acres situated around Turkey Lake, one of the most popular fishing lakes in the area. The park offers canoeing, kayaking, nature trails, volleyball courts and other amenities and diversions.
Barnett Park
Blue Jacket Park
The crown jewel of Orange County’s parks department can be overlooked because it can’t be seen from Colonial Drive. But it boasts two disc golf courses, a
Blue Jacket Park was once the Orlando Naval Training Center, the home of service personnel known as “Blue Jackets.”
4801 W. Colonial Drive, orangecountyfl.net
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2501 General Rees Ave., orlando.gov
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SPORTS & RECREATION
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TOSOHATCHEE WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA | PHOTO BY ASHLEY BELANGER CONTINUED FROM PAGE 61
Today, its 75 acres have been designated as a historic site that’s popular for hosting baseball, soccer and softball, and events like weddings.
Central Park
251 S. Park Ave., Winter Park, cityofwinterpark.org
You’re smack-dab in the middle of Winter Park’s downtown shopping district and you want to experience a little greenery and nature, so you cross the street and are immediately surrounded by fountains, landscaped plants and the oak tree canopies of Central Park’s 11 acres.
Dickson Azalea Park
100 Rosearden Drive, orlando.gov
Along with neighboring Langford Park, Dickson Azalea provides a shaded oasis just outside of downtown. WPA-era bridges, pavilions and walkways crawl around and over the stream that
trickles through the leafy park.
Greenwood Urban Wetlands
1411 Greenwood St., orlando.gov
Surrounded by beautiful cypress trees, with leaves that blend lively shades of orange and yellow during Florida’s shortlived autumn, Greenwood Urban Wetlands’ 19 acres is a sight to be seen any time of the year. And these wetlands adjoin Greenwood Cemetery, a can’tmiss piece of old Orlando.
Lake Eola Park
512 E. Washington St., orlando.gov
The center of downtown Orlando life, Lake Eola Park hosts farmers markets, cultural fairs, entertainment, foot races, white swans, black swans and more, along with a .9-mile walkway that orbits the signature fountain in the middle of the lake.
Lake Lily Park
701 Lake Lily Drive, Maitland, itsmymaitland.org
Popular among dog walkers and birders, this picturesque, pocketsize park is located in the heart of Maitland, surrounded by some of the city’s gorgeous historical buildings.
Harry P. Leu Gardens 1920 N. Forest Ave., leugardens.org
These historic gardens nestled in Audubon Park boast a spectacular collection of native and exotic flora, including a rose garden, a butterfly garden and the largest documented camellia collection in Eastern North America.
Mead Botanical Garden
1300 S. Denning Drive, Winter Park, meadgarden.org
A garden oasis with bike paths and a picnic area bursting with natural fauna and wildlife. Take a CONTINUED ON PAGE 65
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SPORTS & RECREATION CONTINUED FROM PAGE 63
hike near forested wetlands, and if you’re quiet enough, hear the hawks and wading birds.
Orlando Wetlands Park
25155 Wheeler Road, Christmas, orlando.gov
With more than 20 miles of roads and trails threading through mostly undeveloped marshes, Orlando Wetlands Park is the place to go if you’re in the mood to get in touch with nature. Wildlife sightings – including alligators and bears – aren’t uncommon, to say nothing of the prime birdwatching.
Tosohatchee Wildlife Management Area
County. The trail features water fountains, rest stops and mile markers, as well as a cool 685-foot-long suspension bridge that crosses Semoran Boulevard.
Econ Trail
Dean Road just north of State Road 50
This ever-expanding trail in East Orlando begins at Jay Blanchard Park and extends all the way to Alafaya Trail. It runs alongside the Little Econlockhatchee River, which offers pretty views and plenty of good spots to fish, canoe or just sit in the grass and enjoy a riverside picnic.
Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park
8300 W. State Road 46, Sanford, floridastateparks.org
listings
SPRINGS Blue Spring State Park
2100 W. French Ave., Orange City, floridastateparks.org
Volusia County’s Blue Spring, the largest spring on the St. John’s River, is notable both for the gorgeous spring run, but also the chance to have a close encounter with a manatee. The park is a designated manatee refuge (they’re drawn to the temperate 70-degree waters) in the winter. Canoeing, camping, snorkeling and hiking are also favorite activities.
Juniper Springs State Park Ocala National Forest, Florida 40, Silver Springs, fs.usda.gov
Juniper Springs is a bit of a drive – OK, it’s an hour and a half away – but oh, so worth it. From Head east on Colonial Drive until tiny bubbling springs to massive the road forks, then steer right to ones gushing out of crevices in take State Road 520 until you see the earth, you will get your fill of the small brown sign beckoning water – all of it under a canopy of you to turn left and discover Orlando Urban Trail palms and oaks. The swimming orlando.gov Tosohatchee WMA. It’s off the area, campground and trails The nearly 3-mile long trail near beaten path, but its 60 miles were built in the ’30s by the Downtown Orlando is a hidden of trails offer a rare solitude. pocket of peace and scenic quiet Civilian Conservation Corps, part Enjoy hiking the rugged Florida of the Depression-era New Deal landscapes – quaint ponds, open cutting through the heart of that put millions to work (sounds metro Orlando. This trail runs fields of wildflowers, canopies from Lake Highland through Loch like a good idea whose time has of hanging moss – populated in come again!). Haven Park, all the way to Mead the early morning hours by wild turkeys, deer and more birds than Botanical Garden in Winter Park. Wekiwa Springs State Park Audubon Park documents on its 1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka, street signs. West Orange Trail 3365 Taylor Creek Road, Christmas, myfwc.com
BIKING AND HIKING
This section of the park has no amenities, but it does have 18 miles of multi-use trails you can hike or bike.
501 Crown Point Cross Road, Winter Garden, orangecountyfl.net
This 22-mile trail stretches through Winter Garden, Apopka Entrance is 1/4 mile north of State and Orlando. It’s open to Route 50 on Herndon Avenue walkers and bikers, and some This 6.5-mile paved path, popular parts are open to horses, too. with bicyclists and strollerFour trailheads with parking are pushing moms alike, connects located at various points. Orlando and Winter Park and the Cross Seminole Trail in Seminole
Cady Way Trail
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floridastateparks.org
You can canoe or kayak here (rentals are available), but this park also has 13 miles of pristine, wooded hiking, biking and horseback-riding trails. This park is very popular, particularly in summer, and when the parking lot fills, the park entrance closes. So get there early.
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ATTRACTIONS
O
AIRBOAT RIDES
rlando’s many tourist destinations and theme parks are open for business as we go to press, but it’s difficult to get a clear sense of what the future holds for local attractions. The majority of new park construction and expansion is on hold for the indeterminate future, so don’t expect any new debuts or openings, beyond Universal’s Bourne Stuntacular, for now. Now might be a good time to visit to take in more venerable local spots like Bok Tower Gardens, but there’s something on offer for everybody here. In May, Gatorland debuted their new Social Distancing Skunk Ape and we can’t think of anything that better sums up our present, deeply strange moment.
Airboat Rides at Midway
Dinosaur World
See bald eagles, otters, blue herons and a lot of gators at this wildly popular airboat tour on the St. Johns River.
Life-size dinosaur models reign over this attraction seen from Interstate 4. Walk among the dinosaurs, dig for fossils, or visit the kitschy museum.
28501 E. Colonial Drive, Christmas, airboatridesatmidway.com
Bok Tower Gardens
1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales, boktowergardens.org
On the outskirts of Orlando, Bok Tower Gardens is bursting with botanical gardens designed by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. Take in the natural wonders of Florida as you listen to the song coming from the iconic Singing Tower and its carillon bells.
listings
5145 Harvey Tew Road, Plant City, dinosaurworld.com
Gatorland
14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail, gatorland.com
Known as the “Alligator Capital of the World,” this eco-preserve is home to thousands of flesheating reptiles and the trainers brave enough to wrestle them. Get close (but not too close) to see them eat and sleep, or zipline safely above their marsh. Say hi to the Social Distancing Skunk Ape while you’re there. orlando weekly | city guide | listings | 67
Icon Park
8375 International Drive, iconparkorlando.com
Right in the middle of Orlando’s tourist district, Icon Park features the Wheel, a 400foot observation wheel, marine animals at the Sea Life Aquarium, skeletons at the Museum of Osteology, your favorite celebrities at Madame Tussauds wax museum and the Orlando Starflyer, the world’s tallest swing ride.
Legoland
1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven, legoland.com/florida
What’s not to love about the 150acre attraction dedicated to the tiny plastic building blocks and miniature humans that have been entertaining kids of all ages for decades?
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
State Road 405, east of Titusville, kennedyspacecenter.com CONTINUED ON PAGE 69
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Take a tour of the 363-foot Saturn V that took Americans to the moon and catch the lunar particles that still dust astronaut Alan Shepard’s space suit.
Orlando Science Center 777 E. Princeton St., osc.org
Home to Florida’s largest refractor telescope, the Orlando Science Center has a place for everyone. Children can explore KidsTown to their hearts’ content, which includes a climbing area and pickable “orange grove.”
Orlando Speed World Dragway 19164 E. Colonial Drive, raceosw.com/dragway
Local drag racing finds a home
at Orlando Speed World. Check out racing and stunt events here every week.
SeaWorld Orlando 7007 Sea World Drive, seaworld.com/orlando
Outdated marine animal shows aren’t the only thing SeaWorld has to offer. There’s Sesame Street land, thrilling roller coasters and exciting water adventures at Aquatica, and even drive-in movie events that make this theme park a must-visit.
Universal Orlando Resort 6000 Universal Blvd., universalorlando.com
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moment at Universal Orlando.
Wallaby Ranch
1805 Deen Still Road, Davenport, wallaby.com
Lose your terrestrial inhibitions by hanging out with the gliders at Wallaby Ranch. The ranch’s aerotow system launches people (and their instructors) into the air for an unforgettable experience.
Walt Disney World Resort disneyworld.disney.go.com
The most magical place on Earth is still open for business and going strong. The newer Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge land at Disney’s Hollywood studios is proving to be a park fave up there with perennials like Space Mountain and the Haunted Mansion.
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SCULPTURE GARDEN AT THE MENNELLO MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART | PHOTO BY TOM WILLIAMS
W
ith internationally renowned theme parks based right here, it’s no surprise that, Orlando is a city with active visual and performing arts communities – it takes a lot of creative work to make all that magic, and our theaters and galleries showcase this homegrown talent. Though most museums are open at present, the pandemic has most of our theater spaces closed, with season openings pushed back until, optimistically, later in the year. Proving the maxim that it’s the people, not the spaces, that make up a scene, local performers are practicing their craft online with Zoom and Facebook readings, plays, comedy shows and even some classical music events, but it might take some time to reach the level of activity we enjoyed in 2019.
GALLERIES AND MUSEUMS Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens 633 Osceola Ave., Winter Park, polasek.org The Czech artist’s former residence is now a gallery, surrounded by gorgeous lakeside gardens full of his bronze sculptures.
Art and History Museums – Maitland 231 W. Packwood Ave., Maitland, artandhistory.org
The cultural complex includes the Maitland Art Center (a National Historic Landmark), the Germaine Marvel multi-use space, the Victorianera Waterhouse Residence, the Telephone Museum and the Carpentry Shop Museum.
Atlantic Center for the Arts
1414 Art Center Ave., New Smyrna Beach, atlanticcenterforthearts.org The residency program here, which draws internationally renowned visual artists, writers
Tucked away on the campus of Rollins College, this museum continues to acquire cutting edge works of contemporary art for its Alfond Collection, donated by a pair of alumni.
Crealdé School of Art
600 St. Andrews Blvd., Winter Park, crealde.org The school, set in lakeside bungalows with a sculpture garden, is known for creative classes as well as ever-changing gallery shows.
Faith Arts Village Orlando and musicians, is the main focus, but the Center also offers public exhibits and performances.
The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art 445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, morsemuseum.org
This museum features an astounding collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, including a wing dedicated to recreating the essence of Laurelton Hall, Tiffany’s Long Island estate.
CityArts
39 S. Magnolia Ave., downtownartsdistrict. com The Downtown Arts District is centered in the venerable Rogers-Kiene Building. The historic building recalls Orlando’s past; the rotating exhibits within feature local, national and international artists.
Cornell Fine Arts Museum
1000 Holt Ave., Winter Park, rollins.edu/cfam
221 E. Colonial Drive, faithartsvillage.com This ministry of Park Lake Presbyterian Church, housed in an old motel, provides individual artists studios and hosts a monthly art market.
Flying Horse Editions
UCF Center for Emerging Media, flyinghorse.cah.ucf.edu University of Central Florida’s fine art research facility and nonprofit publisher of limited-edition prints, artist books and multiple-edition art objects is a hidden gem of UCF’s expansion into Downtown Orlando.
Hannibal Square Heritage Center 642 W. New England Ave., Winter Park, hannibalsquareheritagecenter.org
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The Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center of Florida 851 N. Maitland Ave., Maitland, holocaustedu.org
The tiny gallery within the Jewish Community Center hosts rotating exhibits that challenge the viewer.
The Mennello Museum of American Art 900 E. Princeton St., 407-246-4278, mennellomuseum.org
The space is small, but it packs a lot of punch. It’s a showcase for works by folk artist Earl Cunningham and an eclectic mix of traveling exhibitions.
THEATERS AND PERFORMING ARTS GROUPS Athens Theatre
124 N. Florida Ave., DeLand, athensdeland.com DeLand’s restored historic theater hosts a resident community theater group, youth theater and concerts.
Bach Festival Society of Winter Park 1000 Holt Ave., Winter Park, bachfestivalflorida.org
with Orlando Philharmonic and other Florida opera groups.
Orlando Ballet
600 N. Lake Formosa Drive, orlandoballet.org Orlando’s professional ballet company performs regularly at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, while its school teaches and nurtures the next generation of ballet stars.
Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra 425 N. Bumby Ave., orlandophil.org
Wider fare than just classical music keeps the only professional orchestra in action: pops, film scores, opera and distinguished guest artists.
BFS presents an annual season of classical music, performed by more than 100 volunteer members as well as visiting artists.
Orlando Repertory Theatre
Mills Gallery
Bob Carr Theater
Professional family theater productions have become the domain of Orlando Rep, which also presents shows from its Youth Academy.
Small, adventurous gallery space located in the Gallery at Mills Park apartment building has hosted exhibitions by William Burroughs and local Kieran Castaño alike.
Operated by the Dr. Phillips Center, this old standby still hosts the Orlando Phil, as well as concerts and comedians.
Orlando Shakes
Orange County Regional History Center
250 SW Ivanhoe Blvd., cfcarts.com
1650 N. Mills Ave., millsgalleryorlando.com
65 E. Central Blvd., thehistorycenter.org
This storehouse of archived wonders fills its exhibition spaces with traveling exhibitions as well as homegrown collections and pieces.
Orlando Museum of Art
2416 N. Mills Ave., omart.org
401 W. Livingston St., drphillipscenter.org
Central Florida Community Arts This very inclusive musical arts organization believes every artist of every age should have a cultural platform to connect and perform.
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts 445 S. Magnolia Ave., drphillipscenter.org
Nestled into Loch Haven Park, the reinvigorated OMA shows work by major artists as well as homegrown talent.
The beautiful, airy glass-and-steel cultural facility downtown offers multi-use spaces and theaters hosting touring Broadway productions, comics, dance, live music and local theater.
Snap Downtown
Garden Theatre
420 E. Church St., snaporlando.com Slick photography-centric gallery hosts some of the best art parties in town.
The Terrace Gallery
Orlando City Hall, 400 S. Orange Ave., cityoforlando.net/arts This gallery showcases some of the city of Orlando’s public art collection, as well as nationally touring and locally curated exhibitions.
Wells’ Built Museum
511 W. South St., wellsbuilt.org Housed in a historic hotel, Wells’ Built is a trove of African American artifacts of Orlando from the era of segregation. A necessary visit.
Zora Neale Hurston National Museum of Fine Arts 344 E. Kennedy Blvd., Eatonville, zoranealehurstonmuseum.com
This gallery is devoted to African American history and culture, and features the oftenchallenging work of contemporary artists of African descent.
160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, gardentheatre.org The lovingly restored historic theater in quaint downtown Winter Garden hosts theater, film and family shows.
The Improv Orlando
9101 International Drive, theimprovorlando.com Touring and local stand-ups, magicians and sketch comedy troupes perform while patrons enjoy dinner and drinks.
Mad Cow Theatre
1001 E. Princeton St., orlandorep.com
Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St., orlandoshakes.org One of the top Shakespeare companies in the country, the Shakes produces a regular season in addition to PlayFest, which showcases new works.
Phantasmagoria
phantasmagoriaorlando.com A Victorian steampunk circus troupe offering “macabre and delicious Halloween treats and tricks.”
Playwrights’ Round Table
facebook.com/playwrightsroundtableorlando The mission of the group is to find and nurture new playwrights and give a home to new stage works.
SAK Comedy Lab
29 S. Orange Ave., sak.com Good, clean fun is the hallmark of the troupe that specializes in improvisational comedy shows.
Theater on the Edge
5542 Hansel Ave., theaterontheedge.org Repertory theater company makes edgy choices of material and dives deep into the human condition.
54 W. Church St., madcowtheatre.com
Theater West End
The established and well-regarded professional Mad Cow Theatre features regular stage productions as well as classes, workshops and socials.
Professional theater in Sanford’s historic downtown stages musicals and repertory plays.
115 W. First St., Sanford, theaterwestend.com
The Winter Park Playhouse
Opera Orlando
711 N. Orange Ave., Winter Park, winterparkplayhouse.org
This rigorous but always fun company stages chamber operas and recitals in collaboration
Cabarets, musicals and holiday fare – this little community theater offers a busy theatrical calendar all year round.
operaorlando.org
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