BeLOCAL West Orlando March 2023

WEST ORLANDO

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IMPORTANT NUMBERS

VOTER REGISTRATION:

registertovoteflorida.gov/home ▸ 1-866-308-6739

EMERGENCY: Dial 9-1-1

HOSPITALS:

AdventHealth Lake Nona ER ▸ 10080 Lake Nona Blvd., Orlando, FL 32827 ▸ 321-340-4100

AdventHealth Winter Garden ▸ 2000 Fowler Grove Blvd., Winter Garden, FL 34787 ▸ 407-614-0500

Nemours Children’s Hospital, FL ▸ 6535 Nemours Pkwy., Orlando, FL 32827 ▸ 407-567-4000

Orlando Health Horizon West Hospital ▸ 17000 Porter Road, Winter Garden, FL 34787 ▸ 407-407-0000

Orlando Health – Health Central Hospital ▸ 10000 W. Colonial Drive, Ocoee, FL 34761 ▸ 407-296-1000

Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children

Neurology – Summerport ▸ 5151 Winter Garden Vineland Road, Ste. 212, Windermere, FL 34786 ▸ 321-843-5437

VAMC Lake Nona, FL ▸ Veteran Affairs Medical Center, 13800 Veterans Way, Orlando, FL 32827 ▸ 407-599-1404

POISON CONTROL: Call 800-222-1222

LAW ENFORCEMENT:

Apopka Police Department ▸ 407-703-1771

Kissimmee Police Department ▸ 407-846-3333

Lake Nona Police Office ▸ 407-219-5560

Ocoee Police Department ▸ 407-905-3160

Windermere Police Department ▸ 407-876-3757

Winter Garden Police Department ▸ 407-656-3636

COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENTS:

Apopka Service Center ▸ 1111 Rock Springs Road, Apopka, FL 32712 ▸ 407-858-1481

Orange County Health Department ▸ 5449 S. Semoran Blvd. #18c, Orlando, FL 32822 ▸ 407-858-1400

Osceola County Community Health Clinic at Buenaventura Lakes ▸ 2622 Simpson Road, Kissimmee, FL 34743 ▸ 407-943-8600

MENTAL HEALTH:

Center for Behavioral Health – Orlando ▸ 601 E. Rollins St., Orlando, FL 32803 ▸ 407-896-8097

Lake Nona Behavioral Health Services, PLLC 10437 Moss Park Road, Suite b, Orlando, FL 32832 407-808-5773

Mental Health Association of Central Florida

1525 E. Robinson St., Orlando, FL 32801 ▸ 407-898-0110

Serene Behavioral Health ▸ 6150 Metrowest Blvd., Suite 101, Orlando, FL 32835 ▸ 321-270-9989

Thriveworks Counseling and Psychiatry Orlando

6150 Metrowest Blvd., Suite 305, Orlando, FL 32835 407-512-8596

SUBSTANCE ABUSE:

Fresh Start Ministries of Central Florida, Inc. ▸ 4436

Edgewater Drive, Orlando, FL 32804 ▸ 407-293-3822

Orlando Recovery Center ▸ 6000 Lake Ellenor Drive, Orlando, FL 32809 ▸ 407-680-1226

WhiteSands Alcohol and Drug Rehab Orlando

56 E. Pine St., Orlando, FL 32801 ▸ 407-255-2351

TRANSPORTATION:

Greyhound: Bus Station ▸ 555 John Young Pkwy., Orlando, FL 32805 ▸ 407-292-3424

Lynx Central Station ▸ 455 N. Garland Ave., Orlando, FL 32801 ▸ 407-841-5969

ORANGE COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR OFFICE:

4101 Clarcona Ocoee Road, Orlando, FL 32810

Hours: 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. ▸ Fax: 407-296-5156

Services:

▸ Driver’s Licenses and State IDs –

U.S. Citizens and Permanent Resident Card Holders

▸ Motor Vehicle/ Vessel Tags and Titles

▸ Written Tests – U.S. Citizens and Permanent Resident Card Holders

▸ Road Tests – U.S. Citizens and Permanent Resident Card Holders

▸ Hunting and Fishing Licenses

▸ Parking Permits

▸ Hazmat Endorsements

New Florida residents must obtain a valid Florida driver’s license within 30 days of establishing residency in order to legally drive in Florida.

Additionally, new Florida residents must also obtain auto insurance from a valid Florida insurance agent within 10 days of establishing residency in order to register and title your vehicle(s), vessel(s) and mobile home(s).

You are considered a Florida resident if you have:

▸ Started employment in Florida.

▸ Enrolled your child(ren) in a public school in Florida.

▸ Registered to vote in Florida.

▸ Filed for homestead tax exemption on property in Florida.

▸ Lived in Florida for a period of more than six consecutive months.

LEARNER’S AND INTERMEDIATE LICENSES

To obtain a Learner’s License, customers must be at least 15 years old and have an accompanying driver at least 21 years old occupying the front passenger seat while the licensee is operating the vehicle. Learner’s Licenses must be held for a period of one year or until the licensee’s 18th birthday, whichever comes first.

To obtain an Intermediate Driver’s License, customers must be at least 16 years old and have held their Learner’s License for at least one year or until their 18th birthday with no traffic convictions and pass the Road Test.

HUNTING AND FISHING LICENSES

Recreational licenses may be purchased online through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Many recreational licenses may also be purchased at area sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and other retail outlets. A valid hunting and fishing license must be carried on his or her person when participating in these activities unless a person is exempt. Annual licenses expire 12 months from the date of issuance.

about the COVER

Orlando is full of iconic landmarks — from Ferris wheels to castles. But for us locals, the crown jewel sits in downtown Orlando.

“When you see our Lake Eola Park for the first time, it’s an experience of tranquility surrounded by the sight of our swans, vibrant artwork, the sound of our fountain, and the many people enjoying our great outdoors,” Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer told us.

That is why we chose Lake Eola as the cover photo for our debut of BeLocal Orlando. It speaks to locals and the city beautiful as a whole. In fact, the city of Orlando’s logo is the majestic fountain.

Lake Eola is also a significant part of Orlando’s history. The Summerlin family donated the land to the city with the promise it would be beautified for public use. It was declared a public park in 1888. It wasn’t until later that a sinkhole formed, creating the lake. The original fountain was first installed in 1912 and since then has been replaced and renovated with a beautifully choreographed light show.

In upcoming issues, we will take a closer look at the backstory behind Lake Eola swans, the art sculptures around the park, and future plans for a facelift of Orlando’s iconic centerpiece, Lake Eola Park.

— Daniella Hume

ORLANDO! W E LCOM E TO

Whether you’ve moved from the next town over, across the street or across the country, settling into a new area can be both exciting and overwhelming.

Within the first few months, you will likely be establishing new routines, getting to know local hotspots, looking into local professionals and influencers, and exploring your new communities’ vast resources.

With so many nuisances and so much on your plate from this new change in your life, it can be daunting to think about everything you need to do to get used to the new surroundings.

Enter BeLocal West Orlando! In your hands you hold the best of the best of everything Orlando. BeLocal West Orlando was developed to give the locals perspective into everything that Orlando has to offer.

From dining, shopping, to family outings and attractions, this is your local guide to what you need to know and what you want to know about

the Orlando area, you now call home. With so much to offer you’re going to need a guide to truly understand your new area that you call “HOME.”

As one of the largest states for attractions, there’s so much more to explore, from wineries, local parks, local springs and much much more.

BeLocal West Orlando gives you the best of the best in Orlando written by the residents who are experts at their crafts and influencers in their fields. Learn about hidden gems and insiders’ tips, indulge in the best parks and dining experiences, discover trips to take with the kids, or places to get away from it all, and become versed in top shopping excursions.

So, sit back, relax, and enjoy your new home in the Orlando area!

Shannon Silva Publisher

407-923-4715

Shannon.Silva@belocalpub.com

AT THE

Orlando has many amazing beaches just 90 minutes away from the city, which comes as a surprise to many first-timers who don’t associate Orlando with a day at the coast. In fact, you can reach the Gulf of Mexico or the Atlantic Ocean in well under two hours, so the options of where to enjoy the sun, sea and sand are plentiful.

“All Florida beaches have different parking rates. Some are even free. Be sure to factor the fees into your consideration, especially if you are on a budget.”

Soaking up the Floridian sunshine while lounging on the beach or strolling on the boardwalk are highly enjoyable alternatives to the attractions and amusements found in Orlando, so take a look at what we consider to be the best beaches in the Orlando area of Central Florida. Whether you are looking for miles of soft, secluded sand, big waves and beach breaks or a quaint seaside town with cafés and games arcades, we have the right beach town or coastal region for you.

TOP FIVE BEACHES, ORLANDO:

1. Cocoa Beach (1 hour from Orlando)

Cocoa Beach is on the east coast of Florida, just a 45-minute drive from Downtown Orlando. The beach is famous for its surf, laidback lifestyle and beautiful natural landscape. There are stunning (albeit inconsistent) waves to ride, and if you want to try surfing for the first time, you can take surf lessons. Cocoa Beach was home to Kelly Slater, the world’s most successful surfer ever, so it is a great place to pick up a board and ride the waves.

The well-maintained shores around Cocoa Beach are wonderful for relaxing as well as taking nature walks around the coastline. This quintessential beach town is great for leisure time, with watersports and deepsea fishing both popular. Plus, if you want to venture slightly further you can also head to the nearby Kennedy Space Center.

CONTINUED >

— Joseph S.

Cocoa Beach

LOCAL TIP

2. Clearwater Beach (2 hours from Orlando)

A resort area on the Gulf of Mexico, Clearwater Beach is an immaculate white sandy beach with beautiful, calm, blue waters that are excellent for swimming. Clearwater Beach is a popular spot for watersports, snorkeling, parasailing and jet skiing, and the beach is only two hours from downtown Orlando.

Regularly rated as one of the best beaches in the United States, the climate at Clearwater Beach is mild and warm throughout the year. With beautiful tropical plants and palms lining the beach, it really is a paradise for those who love the sun, sea and sand.

3. Daytona Beach (90 minutes from Orlando)

Daytona Beach is a fun and friendly seaside town in central Florida. The beach is long, with regular lifeguard stations, and a popular boardwalk. There is a lively ambiance here, particularly on weekends, with a funfair and games arcade overlooking the sand. There’s a nice collection of hotels in Dayton Beach if you decide to spend more than a day here.

4. Canaveral National Seashore (1 hour from Orlando)

One of the most secluded and pristine beaches near Orlando is the Canaveral National Seashore. It is home to many endangered species, including sea turtles that come to the beach to lay their eggs in the sand.

5. New Smyrna Beach (1 hour from Orlando)

Quiet and residential, the town of New Smyrna also has some important sites that should be visited during your time at the beach, including the New Smyrna Beach Sugar Mill Ruins and the historic downtown region with its quaint cafés and restaurants.

“New Smyrna Beach is the local hang-out beach — be sure to get there early before 9 a.m. to get a great spot!” — Shannon S.

Clearwater Beach

New Smyrna Beach

Canaveral National Seashore

Daytona Beach

SCHOOLS SCHOOLS

REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS

Students are registered at their school with the completed registration packet and required documents. Students in Orange County are zoned to attend a school based on their home address.

Visit www.ocps.net/departments/student_enrollment/find_my_school

Graduation Rate Surpasses State Average

The district’s graduation rate in 2019-20 was 97.9% among our traditional high schools.

Districtwide Accreditation

OCPS received unanimous recommendation for district accreditation from AdvancED, a nonprofit organization that conducts rigorous on-site reviews of schools and districts.

1:1 Digital Learning

In its sixth year, the LaunchED one-to-one digital learning program provides more than 188,667 devices to students. In light of the CODID-19 pandemic, we accelerated our efforts in order to provide devices to every student.

“Super

Scholars” – Top 20 Universities

One hundred and twenty-six high school graduates from the class of 2020 were accepted into the nation’s top 20 colleges and universities (as ranked by US News and World Report) and U.S. service academies.

Magnet Schools of America

Seven of the district’s magnet schools are recognized by Magnet Schools of America for demonstrating a high commitment to academic standards, curriculum innovation, diversity efforts, specialized teaching staff, and parent and community involvement.

2014 Broad Prize winner

Orange County was a co-winner of the award in 2014, which recognized public school systems that made the most substantial gains in student achievement and narrowing achievement gaps.

DAYCARE AND PRESCHOOLS

Primrose School of Lake Nona

The Goddard School of Orlando (Lake Nona)

Amazing Explorers Lake Nona

My Kids Academy

Ladybird Academy of Windermere

The Learning Experience - Windermere

StarChild Academy

All Kidz Preschool - Winter Garden

Children’s Lighthouse of Winter Garden

Ladybird Academy of Winter Garden

PREPARATORY/PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Central Florida Preparatory School

Montverde Academy

The Crenshaw School

Windermere Preparatory School

Foundation Academy - Tilden Campus

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

Apopka

Clay Springs

Lakeville Elementary School

Lovell

Wolfe Lake

Eagle Creek

Laureate Park

Moss Park

North Lake

BayLake

Keene’s Crossing

Winter Garden

Dillard Street

Maxey

SunRidge

Whispering Oak

MIDDLE SCHOOLS

Apopka Memorial

Piedmont Lakes

Wolfe Lake

Lake Nona

Chain of Lakes

Gotha

Horizon West

Bridgewater

Lakeview

Sunridge

HIGH SCHOOLS

Apopka

Sheeler High Charter School

Wekiva

Lake Nona

Windermere

Winter Garden

ESTEEM

St. Lillie V

West Orange

Bayhill CC

9000 Bay Hill Blvd., Orlando, FL 32819

888-422-9445 ▸ www.bayhill.com

Dubsdread Golf Course

549 W. Par St., Orlando, FL 32804 407-246-2551

www.historicaldubsdread.com

Located just minutes from downtown Orlando, Dubsdread Golf Course features the oldest public layout in the central Florida area.

Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course

1950 W. Magnolia Palm Drive, Orlando, FL 32830

407-939-4653 ▸ www.golfwdw.com

This 18-hole golf course at Walt Disney World features a pro shop, a driving range and snacks.

Golden Bear Club

6300 Jack Nicklaus Pkwy., Windermere, FL 34786 407-876-5775

www.thegoldenbearclub.com

The Golden Bear Club is a Jack Nicklaus Signature-designed course. Since its opening, it has become the centerpiece of the prestigious community of Keene’s Pointe. This phenomenal private country club is bordered by the Butler Chain of Lakes and features majestic oaks, towering cypress trees, and all types of natural flora.

Heathrow Legacy Country Club

1200 Bridgewater Drive, Lake Mary, FL 32746 407-333-1450

At Heathrow Legacy Country Club there is a gracious welcome waiting for you and a lush, green fairway with your name on it. With two spacious clubhouses just 2 miles from one another and an athletic club adjacent to both, we have what you’re looking for. Unique to central Florida, we offer 36 holes of Championship golf between our two well-maintained courses, along with 13 tennis courts and a resortstyle pool. Indoor and outdoor dining is available year-round and our culinary team offers only the freshest of ingredients. For those with children, we have in-house sitter care, various activities, and classes, and our social calendar is always full of a variety of events for all ages!

Lake Nona Golf and Country Club

9100 Chiltern Drive, Orlando, FL 32827 407-209-1200 ▸ www.lakenona.club

Lake Nona Golf and Country Club sits at the heart of the 17-square-mile Lake Nona community in Southeast Orlando and offers superb amenities, exceptional family experiences, outstanding service and the highest quality of living in Central Florida.

MetroWest Golf Club

2100 S. Hiawassee Road, Orlando, FL 32835

407-299-1099 ▸ www.metrowestgolf.com

Metrowest Golf Club is ranked among the region’s best golf courses. A “must-play” for committed golfers. Metrowest offers fresh challenges for scratch players, demanding exacting shots from tee to green.

Orange Tree Golf Club

7540 Woodgreen Drive, Orlando, FL 32819

407-351-4034 ▸ www.orangetreegolfclub.com

Orange Tree Golf Club is a family-owned and operated private golf club in the heart of the Dr. Phillips area. Designed in 1972 by Joe Lee, Orange Tree Golf Club features 7036 yards of gorgeous fairways and greens; and with six sets of tees to choose from, Orange Tree Golf Club is the perfect course for players of all ages and skill levels.

The Country Club Of Orlando

1601 Country Club Drive, Orlando, FL 32804 407-849-0990 ▸ www.countrycluboforlando.com

By providing personalized service and exceptional amenities, we combine the unifying spirit of our history with family recreation, entertainment, and a community which appeals to all generations.

The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club

4048 Central Florida Pkwy., Orlando, FL 32837 407-393-4900 ▸ www.ritzcarlton.com

The Central Florida landscape provided inspiration to legendary golf course designer Greg Norman, who worked with nature to create challenging greens, wide fairways and hazards. The 18-hole championship course is a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary and tests the abilities of every skill level. The Orlando hotel golf club also features a clubhouse, restaurant and lessons for both children and adults.

Topgolf

9295 Universal Blvd., Orlando, FL 32819 407-218-7714 ▸ www.topgolf.com

Welcome to Topgolf Orlando, the premier entertainment destination in Orlando, FL. Enjoy our climate-controlled hitting bays for year-round comfort with HDTVs in every bay and throughout our sports bar and restaurant. Using our complimentary clubs or your own, take aim at the giant outfield targets and our high-tech balls will score themselves.

“Course hopping is great, but it requires a rental car to drive all over the Orlando area, and often resort fees to access some of the great public courses. Staying at a resort, while not always recommended, can be a great option for golfers looking to take the stress out of booking a golf trip. Walt Disney World is not just for kids and has fantastic golf courses for even the best golfers. For instance, Tom Fazio’s Osprey Ridge is challenging and beautiful. Disney also offers rounds of golf for under $50, which can be hard to find at many of the other local Orlando courses. If you are looking for great golf courses, a resort like Disney might offer the best option for you.” - Jeremy

Dubsdread Golf Course

WINTER GARDEN

A STEP BACK IN TIME

Rise And Fall

Of

Citrus

Settlers began arriving in the Winter Garden area by the 1850s, attracted by the fertile muck land that bordered Lake Apopka. They engaged in citrus and

vegetable farming, living in small settlements situated along the lake’s south shore. By the end of the 19th century, Winter Garden’s business district had grown up alongside the two railroad lines that ran through the city.

The commercial buildings were rebuilt with brick after two fires destroyed the wooden buildings and packinghouses that stood along Plant and Main streets.

FUN FACT

The City of Apopka was later incorporated in 1882 as the “Town of Apopka City,” which it remained until its official name change in the early 1900s. For the next 100 years, Apopka was referred to as the “Indoor Foliage Capital of the World” due to the extensive greenhouse nurseries located within the city. Many of these nurseries remain today.

WINDERMERE

A highly sought-after place to live, Windermere, FL, is steeped in a rich history that helps give the town its modern charm. Founded in 1887, Windermere prides itself on many of its historical sites, from its Town Hall (built from 1922-1924), which began as The Women’s Club, to Cal Palmer’s office Building (completed in 1911), to the Parramore House, also known as the Historic 1890 Windermere Schoolhouse, which became the first school in the Town of Windermere.

Orlando sits in the balmy, sun-drenched heart of central Florida. It’s obviously most famous for Walt Disney World and a host of other major tourist attractions, but the city’s history stretches back centuries before the arrival of the theme parks. Here’s a brief overview of Orlando’s past.

Pre-Civil War Orlando

The region around Orlando was sparsely populated in the colonial period, both before and after the arrival of Europeans.

The first European explorers came to the area in 1536 and were greeted by small bands of Native Americans, primarily from the Creek tribe. Orlando (initially known as Jernigan after the first European to permanently settle there) remained a very rural region throughout the early 19th century. The vicious Seminole Wars ravaged the area in the 1830s and 1840s, and violence between Native Americans and settlers was common. The largest European settlement of note was Fort Gatlin, located just south of modern downtown Orlando.

Renamed Orlando in 1857, the settlement was now the center of Orange County. It was still an isolated and very small community up to the time of the Civil War, and the Union blockade of Florida did it no favors. The subsequent Reconstruction brought an enormous increase in population to Orlando, though.

FUN FACT

Lake Nona is a planned community bursting with potential and prosperity. Up until about 25 years ago, Lake Nona was mainly farmland and fields. When they built the 417 highway, developers started to plan the future of this area.

Winter Garden was established in 1903 and officially incorporated as a City in 1908. The first Mayor of Winter Garden was A.B. Newton. The population of Winter Garden had grown to over 1,000 people by 1920, and the city had quickly become the center of commerce and agriculture in West Orange County. Lake Apopka’s emergence as “the largemouth bass capital” attracted tourists, and the Edgewater Hotel opened in 1927 to accommodate these visitors. Early residents either owned or worked in the groves. As the citrus industry grew in importance and acreage, the commercial district continued to expand.

Winter Garden’s rapid development slowed considerably in the late 1960s. Lake Apopka had become severely polluted, and the construction of major highways in the area drew businesses away from downtown.

Despite the challenges, Winter Garden’s architectural heritage remained intact. The establishment of the West Orange Trail attracted thousands of visitors eager to patronize the new shops and restaurants that moved into the old buildings. In 1996, downtown Winter Garden was listed on the National Register of Historic Places after concerned citizens and community leaders rallied to rescue the commercial district.

Today, Winter Garden’s Historic District serves as a successful example of historic preservation. Infill development, redevelopment, repurposed buildings, preservation, housing and businesses all converge to create a thriving downtown that draws people from around the world.

Until the 1500s, the Timucuan Indians called the historic Windermere area home. In 1564, the Spanish began to settle in the area. After the United States’ 1821 purchase of the eastern half of the state from Spain, Florida became the 27th state of the Union in 1845.

As an incentive for settlers, the United States government gave 160 acres of free land to anyone willing to cultivate five acres and build a cabin. Thanks to this act, more settlers found their way to Windermere, which brought in railroads, steamboats, and tourism. Windermere was beginning to develop its identity.

ORLANDO

Orlando Bros Bakery

Walt Disney World

This circa 1950 view looking west along Plant Street shows structures that still stand in the Historic District; the taller building at left now contains only one story.

The South Lake Apopka Citrus Growers Association packinghouse in Tildenville, a community located on the west side of Winter Garden. The building, now housing various small businesses, still stands on Tildenville School Road.

DRINK DANCE &

LIKE A LOCAL

BARS & BREWERIES

Chroma Modern Bar and Kitchen

6967 Lake Nona Blvd., Orlando, FL 32827

Chroma in Lake Nona is known for its seasonal cocktail menu and handcrafted sodas. The bar is warm and welcoming and many of the cocktails pair well with the eclectic food menu that includes sharable plates and appetizers from all kinds of cuisines (tacos, pad Thai, pasta, ribs and curry fried chicken all bump elbows on the menu). Opt for the refreshing Bottled Sunshine, which mixes lemon, orange and tangerine juices with Solerno blood orange liqueur and Reyka vodka and is served in a bottle.

Crooked Can Brewing Company

426 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, FL 34787

Driving into Winter Garden, it’s hard to miss the Crooked Can Brewery. This local favorite is known for its free spirit, laidback approach to beer making, excellent taste, and unmatched quality. Grab a seat inside or soak up the sunshine on their outdoor patio while sipping on their classics like the cloud chaser and the high stepper.

Hanson’s Shoe Repair

27 E. Pine St., Orlando, FL 32801

Housed in another historic setting –completed in the 1880s, the building might just be the oldest in downtown Orlando – Hanson’s Shoe Repair serves craft cocktails inside and outside on the patio. Be warned: You will need the daily password to enter, but it can be acquired through social media, or by calling or texting the bar. Hanson’s is very committed to its speakeasy theme, so phones and photos are not permitted. Let this be a lesson in how people had fun before iPhones existed.

Mathers Social Gathering

3 Phoenix Building, 30 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando, FL 32801

Housed in a historic building in the heart of downtown Orlando (it’s been on Magnolia Street since 1894!), Mathers Social Gathering is where dapper bartenders shake up drinks made with small-batch spirits and house-made cordials, bitters and syrups. The bar is known for Prohibition-era specialities like bathtub gin — a surprisingly creamy drink made with Brokers gin, ground lavender, honey simple syrup, lemon and half-and-half.

The Ravenous Pig Brewing Co

565 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, FL 32789

This local brewery is run by the same team that own the next-door restaurant, The Ravenous Pig. The craft beer spot has year-round staples like Lone Palm golden ale and the Working Man porter, as well as a rotating selection of seasonal and limited-edition beers. You’ll also find their selections at a number of pigthemed eateries, like The Polite Pig at Disney Springs and Cask and Larder at the Orlando International Airport. If you like what you taste, purchase a growler to take home with you.

16100 Marsh Rd., Suite 201, Winter Garden, FL 34787

When you don’t feel like grabbing a seat at an everyday bar, the Regency Beer, Wine, and Liquor store is here. But it isn’t your average liquor store. Not only do they have an incredible selection of beers and wines for you to take home. They also offer in-house tastings for you to enjoy during your shopping experience.

Toll Road Brewing Company

101 W. McKey St., Ocoee, FL 34761

Want to drink like a local? Off the beaten path, just a short drive out of Winter Garden, you’ll find Toll Road Brewing Company — named after the infamous Florida toll roads. This local-favorite brewery is a small craft brewery that specializes

WINERIES

The Attic Door

28 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, FL 34787

Whether you’re in search of the perfect date spot or a place to spend an afternoon with your crew, Winter Garden’s Attic Door should be at the top of your list. This swanky wine bar, bistro, and live music venue serves up unique wines, craft beers, and great bites.

Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards

19239 US 27 North Clermont, FL 34715

Being Florida’s largest winery, Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards is an Orlando must-visit for locals and tourists. Located in Clermont, you’ll find 127 acres of rolling hills covered in Muscadine grapes — the same grapes used to create the award-winning wines you can taste or purchase in their gift shop.

Wine Bar George

1610 E. Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

Wine Bar George at Disney Springs boasts a curated list of over 140 wines by the ounce, glass or bottle. Each of the servers are uber-knowledgeable and can suggest a pairing with food or make you a flight of wine based on your answers to a few simple questions. The food is just as impressive, and includes sharable plates and charcuterie boards. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot resident Master Sommelier George Miliotes, who can sometimes be seen pouring wine and greeting guests.

DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY

Cowboys ▸ There is no better place to perfect your two-step than Cowboys, the city’s Western club of choice. The off-the-beatenpath venue boasts Orlando’s largest wooden dance floor at a whopping 20,000 square feet, along with a patio and multiple bars. Bonus points: You can nab free dance lessons so you aren’t lost when the party really starts to kick up when old-school Garth Brooks or Reba McEntire are blasted through the speakers and everyone starts singing along.

The Independent Bar ▸ A downtown staple, this unassuming three-tier hangout with two dance floors spins music as eclectic as the crowd – hip-hop, house, Motown and New Wave all hold space on the dance floor – and the reasonable prices mean you’ll still have money left over to spend on quintessential hangover-preventing fare at the nearby food trucks. It’s an unpretentious local favorite, free of velvet ropes or bad attitudes.

The Beacham ▸ A nightlife staple for more than a century, The Beacham has hosted the likes of Elvis, the Ramones, Pretenders and DJ Khaled. A concert venue on most nights, the space turns into downtown’s largest nightclub on the weekends, attracting a young crowd with two dance floors populated by dancers and DJs spinning mostly hip-hop and rap. If you’ve got the cash, opt for VIP service, which comes with a private security and servers.

Tier Nightclub ▸ Orlando’s take on a Vegas-style club, Tier attracts a good-looking crowd willing to dish out the cash for a bottle of Ace of Spades. Private skyboxes set the high rollers apart but even the more down-to-earth clubber will enjoy the view atop the balconies overlooking the dance floor, state-of-theart lighting and five bars. While EDM reigns supreme, the Fridaythemed parties always draw a crowd.

The Wine Room on Park Avenue 270 S. Park Ave., Winter Park, FL 32789 Rustic-casual venue with 100+ wines to taste via a machine dispenser, plus artisanal cheese and tapas.

ORLANDO L OVES pets

LOCAL TIP

grooming

Bubbles N’ Paws Mobile Dog Grooming Orlando 407-408-2273

D’Pets – Pet Grooming 2409 S. Hiawassee Road, Orlando, FL 32835 321-318-1669

Four Corners Pet Grooming 8953 Conroy Windermere Road, Orlando, FL 32835 407-876-8750

Plush Paws Pet Salon 3702 Edgewater Drive, Orlando, FL 32804 407-442-7297

Stacey’s Groom ‘n’ Room 555 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-877-8883

Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming Orlando 5054 Dr Phillips Blvd., Orlando, FL 32819 407-292-9663

shopping with dogs

Park Avenue

re-tail therapy

34787 407-654-8885 CONTINUED

Posh pups will feel right at home strolling through Winter Park, an upscale enclave just north of downtown Orlando. Park Avenue is the neighborhood’s destination for shopping, restaurants and culture. In addition to the area’s Central Park, leashed dogs are welcome on restaurant patios and inside many stores. 407-644-8281 » winterpark.org/park-avenue

Celebration Town Center

Leashed pets are welcome at this outdoor shopping plaza that’s a stone’s throw from Walt Disney World. Be sure to swing by Woof Gang Bakery and Grooming to treat your pup.

610 Sycamore St., Celebration » 407-566-4007 celebrationtowncenter.com

Maitland Farmers’ Market

On Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of this pet-friendly outdoor market. From fresh produce and flowers to live music, this event is a feast for the senses.

701 Lake Lily Drive, Maitland » 407-539-6268 facebook.com/maitlandfarmersmarket

Bark Avenue Bakery

This local business is a pooch’s paradise, with homemade dog treats, rawhides and even doggie birthday cakes. Also check out the assortment of dog bandanas, LED collars and dog-themed picture frames. 4307 Vineland Road, Orlando » 407-345-9999 barkavenuebakery.com

“Visit the vet for a spring or early-summer checkup. Make sure your pets get tested for heartworm if they aren’t on year-round preventative medication.”

- Chris

dog-friendly breweries

Orlando Brewing

This organic brewery is known for hosting fun events like drum circles, trivia nights and even a cookie and beer pairing class. So it’s no surprise that such a fun-loving brewery hosts a weekly “Dogs’ Day Out” — on Sundays, dog owners get special “yappy hour” discounts. And well-behaved pets are always welcome in the taproom.

1301 Atlanta Ave., Orlando 407-872-1117 » orlandobrewing.com

outdoor activities with dogs

Lake Eola Park

Wop’s Hops Brewing Company

Sanford’s first microbrewery offers more than a dozen housemade beers on draft for you, plus Wop-Sicles and non-alcoholic Bowser Beer for your pet.

419 Sanford Ave., Sanford 407-878-7819 » wopshopsbrewing.com

Cosmopolitan canines will enjoy downtown Orlando’s signature greenspace, whose picnic areas, amphitheater and people-watching are popular with dogs and humans alike. The park is also home to the weekly Orlando Farmers’ Market, which offers fresh produce, prepared foods, craft items, plus a selection of pet clothing, treats and supplies for sale.

512 E. Washington St., Orlando 407-246-4484 » orlando.gov

Bok Tower Gardens

Part historic landmark, part idyllic garden, this oasis is a perfect fit for both you and your four-legged friend. Leashed dogs are welcome on the paths and lawns for a fee of $5 per dog (free for members).

1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales 863-676-1408 » boktowergardens.org

Lake Baldwin Park

Treat your pet to a romp around this 23-acre greenspace in Winter Park, a suburb northeast of Orlando. The park features a sandy beach, and dogs can run off-leash from 8 a.m. to sunset.

2000 S. Lakemont Ave., Winter Park 407-599-3399 » cityofwinterpark.org

Paw Park

Your pet will have a pawsome time at this offleash dog park located about 25 miles north of Orlando. The play areas for large and small dogs include agility obstacles; there’s also a dog wash and dog fountain.

427 S. French Ave., Sanford 407-688-5000 » sanfordfl.gov

Doctors Dog Park

Grass, pet water fountains and even a pet shower make this Greater Orlando dog park popular. There’s even a pet memorial bridge to honor dogs that have crossed the rainbow bridge.

21 N. Highland Ave., Apopka 407-703-1700 » apopka.net

we’ll drink to that

LIKE A FLORIDIAN!

There are tons of great restaurants out there to choose from; here are a list of some of our writers’ TOP restaurants and in their specific category.

SEAFOOD

KABOOKI SUSHI

7705 Turkey Lake Road, Orlando, FL 32819 407-776-2001

There are so many winners on Chef Henry Moso’s menu, it’s hard to know where to start. A James Beard Award finalist and Rising Star Chef of the Year, Moso packs the house for his sublime seafood dishes and multi-course omakase menus featuring the freshest seasonal nigiri, and much of the restaurant’s fresh fish arrives regularly from the Toyosu market in Tokyo, and from Spain.

KADENCE

1809 Winter Park Road, Orlando, FL 32803

A sake and sushi bar with just nine seats (yes, reservations are absolutely mandatory), Kadence is tiny but certainly mighty on Orlando’s fine-dining scene.

FANCY Q SUSHI & THAI APOPKA

Orlando’s fine-dining

1095 W. Orange Blossom Trl., Apopka, FL 32712 407-890-1111 ▸ fancyqapopka.com

FOR EVERY AD WE SELL, N2 DONATES ENOUGH MONEY TO FREE 2 SLAVES FROM

Christinis Ristorante

Italiano: “With more than 45 years of distinctive culinary experience, I am convinced that success comes down to this: One restaurant, in one location, serving the highest quality cuisine, the best service and a friendly atmosphere in which to enjoy it.”

AMERICAN & PUB FOOD

CHEF’S TABLE

99 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-230-4837

A quaint fine-dining restaurant in the Edgewater Hotel serves a set-price menu of New American fare.

huge open

KITCHEN

KNIFE & SPOON

4012 Central Florida Pkwy., Orlando, FL 32837

407-393-4333

With a discreet entrance tucked off the lobby of The Ritz-Carlton Grand Lakes, Orlando, the restaurant greets you in a grand way with a huge open kitchen, windows all around and a dramatic ceiling that looks like a geode cut and open with dim light coming down from above. It’s Chef John Tesar’s new restaurant in Orlando, and he recruited other chefs from top Marriott hotels across the state. Everyone who knows food in Orlando is talking about this place — and also talking about how it’s good for a special occasion.

STEAK

CAPA

10100 Dream Tree Blvd., Lake Buena Vista, FL 32836

407-313-7777

Set on the 17th floor of the Four Seasons Resort Orlando, Capa is a chic Spanish restaurant with a high-design interior and sweeping views from a spacious outdoor terrace. Start with cured meats, Spanish cheeses, and tapas like foie gras with quince. Continue to share as you move onto mains like Wagyu beef, rack of lamb, and short ribs braised in a rich rioja sauce. For dessert, skip the churros for the crema de coco (coconut sorbet with mango espuma) or the hazelnutty guindilla.

CHARLEY’S STEAK HOUSE

8255 International Drive #100, Orlando, FL 32819 407-363-0228

Classic chophouse delivering wood-fired aged beef, plus seafood and wine in a sophisticated space.

CHRISTNER’S PRIME STEAK & LOBSTER

729 Lee Road, Orlando, FL 32810 ▸ 407-645-4443

High-end steaks and seafood served in refined dining rooms enlivened by piano music and magic shows.

DEL FRISCO’S DOUBLE

LUKE’S KITCHEN & BAR

640 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland, FL 32751 407-674-2400

Rustic-modern with wood and metal accents, dimly lit, spotlight on big open kitchen. This is another restaurant by Brandon McGlamery of Prato and Luma on Park (now closed) fame.

SE7EN BITES

617 Primrose Drive, Orlando, FL 32803 407-203-0727

Very few hangovers would survive breakfast and brunch at Se7en Bites. The menu is stocked with crowd-pleasers, including a buttermilk garlic biscuit topped with a soufflé-baked egg, homemade sausage, and a dollop of pimento cheese

THE HANGRY BISON

250 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-347-9099

From our hand-built burgers to fine bourbon to craft beer brewed near and far, we are committed to sourcing the freshest ingredients within our community.

THREE BIRDS CAFÉ

2 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-614-1010

THE RAVENOUS PIG

565 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, FL 32789 407-628-2333

A husband-and-wife team of James Beard-nominated chefs are behind The Ravenous Pig, where Chef Clay Miller, who trained under the likes of Thomas Keller and Michael Mina, turns out Southern-leaning “Modern American” food, much of it ethically and locally sourced in Florida

TEAK NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL

6400 Time Square Ave., Orlando, FL 32835-7500 ▸ 407-313-5111

URBAN ON PLANT KITCHEN & BAR

132 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-614-2765

sleek space with PATIO tables

Wine, flatbreads, salads and American entrees in a sleek space with patio tables.

YELLOW DOG EATS

1236 Hempel Ave., Windermere, FL 34786 407-296-0609

American joint serving BBQ, sandwiches and craft brews in a colorful, relaxed setting with a patio.

EAGLE STEAKHOUSE

9150 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819 407-351-5074

Opulently outfitted chain restaurant specializing in prime steaks and seafood along with fine wines.

KRES CHOPHOUSE

17 W. Church St., Orlando, FL 32801

— Chris Christini, owner

ETHNIC

AGAVE AZUL WINDERMERE

5855 Winter Garden Vineland Road, Suite 100, Windermere, FL 34786 ▸ 407-395-8350

DOMU

East End Market, 3201 Corrine Drive, Suite 100, Orlando, FL 32803 ▸ 407-960-1228

7600 Dr Phillips Blvd. #14, Orlando, FL 32819 407-630-6163

cheerful murals, and

EDGY

fixtures

GRINGOS LOCOS WASHINGTON

20 E. Washington St., Orlando, FL 32801

407-841-5626 ▸ gringoslocos.com

REYES MEZCALERIA

821 N. Orange Ave., Orlando, FL 32801 407-868-9007

Reyes Mezcaleria is a Downtown favorite for Oaxacan food. Start with a mixed ceviche of citrus-cured snapper and shrimp, or a queso fundido with Oaxaca cheese. Continue with shared plates — say, elotes, tamales, or fish tacos — or opt for a larger platos fuerte instead. For the latter, anything with mole sauce is an excellent choice, as is the line-caught Veracruz snapper (whole or filleted). Dessert offers nothing particularly notable — pass on the churros and finish with more mezcal instead.

PIZZA

F&D WOODFIRED

ITALIAN KITCHEN

2420 Curry Ford Road ▸ 407-751-5697

Domu, in East End Market, is a chic, modern space with whitewashed brick walls, cheerful murals, and edgy fixtures. House-made noodles and slowcooked broths are just part of what makes the ramen here so good. Beyond that, a panAsian menu includes rice bowls, lobster buns with bonito flakes, and grilled octopus with yuzu. Finish with ice cream, which comes in flavors like horchata, Vietnamese coffee, and taro.

GARIBALDI (APOPKA) MEXICAN

RESTAURANT & BAR

2430 E. Semoran Blvd., Apopka, FL 32703 407-814-7103 ▸ garibaldiwekiva.com

THE WHOLE ENCHILADA FRESH

MEXICAN GRILL & BAR

129 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-347-9699

Airy and trendy spot dishing up updated takes on classic Mexican offerings such as tacos and enchiladas.

TORI TORI

720 N. Mills Ave., Orlando, FL 32803

The focus in Japanese izakaya eats, and the yakitori is made with particular care and consideration. Organic free-range chicken is brined overnight and broken down into the various yakitori skewer offerings on the menu.

Christinis Ristorante

Italiano: “Food is delicious. The meatballs melt in your mouth. We had a great time with such an attentive staff. Lazar and Rodrigo were our waiters. and they were super friendly and attentive. The location has a very old-school, traditional feel.” – Mike

NYPD PIZZA

2589 S. Hiawassee Road, Orlando, FL 32835-6316 407-293-8880

PIZZA BRUNO

3990 Curry Ford Road, Orlando, FL 32806 407-270-6833

don’t sleep on the

Originally born as a food cart, this brick-and-mortar pizzeria in the Conway area west of downtown draws people by word of mouth from all around. Pizzas are of the personal-size variety and wood-fired, so come up out with a slightly smoky taste and bubbling on the edges (so so good). Interesting versions like New Haven Clam Pie, with clams, bacon and cream, and the house favorite Crimson Ghost, with Fresh mozzarella, soppressata, basil, Mike’s Hot Honey. Also, don’t sleep on the pastas, house-made ricotta, and wood-roasted octopus.

ITALIAN

as meat plates, pizza, pasta and desserts.

ENZO’S ON THE LAKE

1130 S. U.S. Hwy 17 92, Longwood, FL 32750 407-834-9872

Colorful, Picasso-esque paintings by one of the owner’s mothers decorate the walls of Enzo’s on the Lake, an Orlando icon since 1980. The restaurant does Italian classics to perfection.

PRATO

124 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, FL 32789 407-262-0050

A long hall-like dining space that stretches to the back where the wood-fired ovens, imported from Italy, churn out pizzas and the many other dishes finished there.

“Forty-two million gallons of crystal clear water flow each day from Wekiwa Springs into Wekiwa Springs Run. The run joins with Rock Springs Run to form the beautiful upper Wekiva River. Creeks, later called Seminoles, are the most recent Native Americans to have lived here. Wekiwa means ‘spring of water,’ and Wekiva means ‘flowing water’ in the Creek language. Recreational activities have always been a part of the area which had several structures near the spring.” – Bill

GET OUT AND

WEEKI WACHEE SPRINGS STATE PARK

6131 Commercial Way, Spring Hill, FL 34606

352-610-5660 ▸ Weeki Wachee is an enchanted spring where you can see live mermaids, take a trip on a riverboat cruise, learn about Florida wildlife, and swim in the pristine waters at Buccaneer Bay. You can also embark on a paddling adventure down the pristine waterway of the Weeki Wachee River. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is one of Florida’s most legendary and unique family destinations, entertaining audiences since 1947.

▸ BLUE SPRING STATE PARK

2100 W. French Ave., Orange City, FL 32763 ▸ 386-775-3663

▸ KELLY PARK AT ROCK SPRING 400 E. Kelly Park Road, Apopka, FL 32712 ▸ 407-889-4179

▸ LAKE LOUISA STATE PARK IN CLERMONT 7305 US-27, Clermont, FL 34714 ▸ 352-394-3969

▸ MOSS PARK

12901 Moss Park Road, Orlando, FL 32832 ▸ 407-254-6840

▸ ROCK SPRINGS RUN STATE RESERVE 30601 County Road 433, Sorrento, FL 32776 ▸ 407-553-4383

▸ THE PADDLING CENTER AT SHINGLE CREEK

4266 W. Vine St., Kissimmee, FL 34741 ▸ 407-343-7740

▸ TIBET-BUTLER PRESERVE ▸ 8777 Winter Garden – Vineland Road, Orlando, FL 32836 ▸ 407-254-1940

▸ WEKIVA ISLAND

1014 Miami Springs Drive, Longwood, FL 32779 ▸ 407-862-1500

▸ WEKIWA SPRINGS STATE PARK 1800 Wekiwa Cir., Apopka ▸ 407-553-4383

MUSEUMS

from to farmfork

Orlando Museum of Art 2416 N. Mills Ave., Orlando, FL 32803 ▸ 407-896-4231

Orlando Fire Museum ▸ 814 E. Rollins St., Orlando, FL 32803 ▸ 407-246-3468

▸ Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens ▸ 633 Osceola Ave., Winter Park, FL 32789 ▸ 407-647-6294

▸ Central Florida Railroad Museum ▸ 101 S. Boyd St., Winter Garden, FL 34787 ▸ 407-656-0559

▸ Mennello Museum of American Art ▸ 900 E. Princeton St., Orlando, FL 32803 ▸ 407-246-4278

▸ Museum of the Apopkans ▸ 122 E. Fifth St., Apopka, FL 32703 ▸ 407-703-1707

▸ Museum of Military History ▸ 5210 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy., Kissimmee, FL 34746 ▸ 407-507-3894

▸ Orange County Regional History Center ▸ 65 E. Central Blvd., Orlando, FL 32801 ▸ 407-836-8500

▸ Orlando Science Center ▸ 777 E. Princeton St., Orlando, FL 32803 ▸ 407-514-2000

▸ Orange County Regional History Center ▸ 65 E. Central Blvd., Orlando, FL 32801 ▸ 407-836-8500

▸ Osceola County Welcome Center and History Museum Vine St., Kissimmee, FL 34741 ▸ 407-396-8644

▸ Rollins Museum of Art ▸ 1000 Holt Ave. Box 2765, Winter Park, FL 32789 ▸ 407-646-2526

▸ The Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center of Florida Winter Park ▸ 851 N. Maitland Ave., Maitland, FL 32751 ▸ 407-628-0555

Orlando Farmers’ Market ▸ 20 N. Eola Drive, Orlando, FL Lakefront market on Sundays, with seasonal fruits and vegetables, prepared foods and local handicrafts.

Maitland Farmers’ Market ▸ 1776 Independence Ln., Maitland, FL 32751 ▸ Explore dozens of unique local vendors with fresh produce, flowers, crafts, gifts, food and live music on Independence Lane next to City Hall.

Apopka Farmers’ Market ▸ 10 N. Forest Ave., Apopka, FL Spend your Thursdays exploring a local variety of produce, food, and crafts! Thursdays from 5:30 p.m.–8 p.m.

Windermere Farmers’ Market ▸ 614 Main St., Windermere, The Town of Windermere hosts a weekly farmers’ market every Friday from 9 a.m.–1:30 p.m. (weather permitting) along Town Square Park (Main Street between Fifth and Sixth avenues). We have a wide range of vendors offering fresh produce, seafood, breads and pastries, coffee, hummus, candles, soaps, essential oils, clothing, jewelry, craftwork, flowers and more!

Winter Garden Downtown Pavilion and Farmers’ Market 104 S. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden, FL 34787 ▸ The Winter Garden Farmers’ Market is your hometown market open every Saturday from 8 a.m.–1 p.m. in beautiful Historic Winter Garden.

Winter Park Farmers’ Market ▸ 200 W. New England Ave., Winter Park, FL 32789 ▸ Outside a vintage train depot, a bustling farmers’ market offers produce, plants and

Photo by: Florida State Parks

retail therapy retail therapy

SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP AND SUPPORT OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES

GOODS/GIFTS

ADJECTIVES MARKET

137 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, FL 34787 321-422-2710 ▸ An inspirational adventure of discovering unique hand-painted and refinished furniture and home décor, vintage designer handbags and fashion, one-of-a-kind gifts, handcrafted jewelry, historic memorabilia and so much more.

HEIRLOOM AMISH FURNITURE

HOME

121 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-347-8920 ▸ Premium quality furniture pieces specially crafted by Amish artisans for you and your home.

LIVETRENDS BOUTIQUE

279 Tremaine St., Winter Garden, FL 34787 352-507-3287 ▸ LiveTrends is an interior design company that fuses nature and art to create inspiring home décor.

PISTIL HOME & GARDEN LLC

503 Main St., Windermere, FL 34786 407-217-7144

RUBY AND RUST

31 S. Main St., Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-395-3221 ▸ A boutique featuring houseplants, botanicals, apothecary, teas and more. The showroom includes collections of found treasures and those by local artisans.

2001 Rock Springs Road, Apopka, FL 32712 ▸ 407-703-7869

Come on a shopping adventure...100 unique shops offering what you love — at prices you can afford! We’ve been featured on Good Day Orlando and listed in Orlando Magazine as a favorite place to shop! Stop by and see why we’re a favorite in Central Florida.

CONTINUED >

GOURMET/ MARKET

MAIN HOUSE MARKET

108 S. Main St., Winter Garden, FL 34787 ▸ 407-919-5402 ▸ Main House Market and Kombucha Bar is a tribute to Central Florida’s past, present and future.

THE SACRED OLIVE:

THE ANCIENT OLIVE GOURMET

125 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, FL 34787 ▸ 407-656-6457 ▸ We have made it our mission to search the globe for the finest, most extraordinary foods.

TIM’S WINE MARKET

428 Main St., Windermere, FL 34786 407-876-9463 ▸ At Tim’s Wine Market, we are excited to help you select the perfect bottle for any occasion.

LOCAL LORE

“PISTIL — Such a wonderful gem of a store in downtown Windermere.

Wonderful gifts and plants for the home. Can’t help but come in this store and be happy!” — Angela P.

SHOPPING MALLS

APRICOT LANE BOUTIQUE

264 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, 407-554-2216 ▸ Locally owned and operated women’s clothing boutique specializing in flattering, timeless, and fun clothing and accessories that are high quality and affordable.

DOXOLOGY

49 S. Main St., Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-347-3275 ▸ A women’s boutique featuring fashion-forward apparel.

DRIFTWOOD MARKET

46 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-554-3105 ▸ Driftwood Market offers a hand-curated collection of unique gifts, garden goods, accessories and home décor selected for quality and value, in addition to DIY artisan workshops.

GIANNI VINCENT JEWELLERS

4757 The Grove Drive #164, Windermere, FL 34786 ▸ 407-217-7625

BOOK RACK

125 W. McKey St., Ocoee, FL 34761 407-905-0279 ▸ Bookstore chain selling and trading a regularly changing selection of used paperbacks.

SHOO SHOO BABY

117 S. Boyd St., Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-955-2525 ▸ The women’s fashion boutique carries a mix of trendy, contemporary styles that make women look and feel fabulous.

SWEET SASSY & SOUTHERN

4750 The Grove Dr., Windermere, FL 34786 407-217-7288 ▸ At Sweet, Sassy & Southern, we believe that every person is important and love all of our customers and the relationships we have built over the years.

Orlando Outlet Marketplace ▸ 5269 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819

“Florida offers tax-free holidays for hurricane and back-to-school shopping.”

THE OWL’S ATTIC ▸ 3106 Corrine Drive, Orlando, FL 32803 ▸ 321-300-6957 ▸ Warm, cozy shop offering a variety of men’s and women’s vintage clothing plus home decor items and more.

WINDERMERE SHOES ▸ 4848 S. Apopka Vineland Rd., Unit #212, Orlando, FL 32819 ▸ 407-413-5000

Orlando International Premium Outlets ▸ 4951 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819

SODO Shopping Center ▸ South Orange Avenue, Orlando, FL 32806 | The Florida Mall ▸ 8001 S. Orange Blossom Trl., Orlando, FL 32809 The Mall at Millenia ▸ 4200 Conroy Road, Orlando, FL 32839

EVENTS CAN’T MISS

SEASONAL EVENTS

EPCOT® INTERNATIONAL FLOWER AND GARDEN FESTIVAL ▸ Spring is definitely in the air because the horticulture team at Walt Disney World Resort is busy producing topiaries, hanging baskets, flower towers and more in preparation for the 2022 EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival. Once this popular and fragrant festival springs to life, you’ll have 125 days to enjoy fresh cuisine, colorful gardens, playful topiaries and vibrant entertainment.

UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT’S MARDI

The beads are back. The parade and concerts are back on select nights. And every day and night, you can enjoy food from New Orleans and dishes inspired by diverse tastes and flavors from around the world (purchase required). It’s the loudest, wildest blowout this side of the Bayou, and you’ll only find it at Universal Orlando!

SEAWORLD® ORLANDO’S SEVEN SEAS FOOD

FESTIVAL ▸ On Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, sip and sample your way around the world with exciting flavors and local craft beers, plus live performances at SeaWorld Orlando’s Seven Seas Food Festival. And from Feb. 25–March 6, 2022, you can let the good times roll with limited-time food, cocktails, entertainment and live music thanks to the Seven Seas Food Festival’s special Mardi Gras celebration!

is serving up an incredible party for craft beer lovers. SeaWorld’s Craft Beer Festival features more than 100 crafts brews, wines, seltzers, and cocktails. Sample an unbeatable mix of domestic and local Florida favorites. Plus savor more than 15 food items expertly paired to match your preferred brew. And to top it all off, festive entertainment will keep the party going all day long. This is the one craft beer celebration you won’t The fun is brewing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, zones. Seek shelter indoors, only to find you’ve entered a house of horrors. Deepen the thrill with a nighttime coaster ride. Quench your thirst for fear at a fiendishly interactive bar. Feel the monstrous electricity of a live show. Evil is returning — with a howl and a scream. Experience 28 nights of fully immersive fear in fall 2022, only at SeaWorld Orlando.

GATORS, GHOSTS, AND GOBLINS AT GATORLAND

The latest daytime event suitable for all ages involves unique animal meet and greets, a “Monster Movie Madness Show,” along with a variety of special games and giveaways. Guests can also enjoy the Oktoberfest-themed food and beverages while listening to live music from the “undead” polka band.

CONTINUED >

There are a lot of seasonal activities for you to enjoy if you decide to visit Orlando during this fall and winter. The

activities range from Halloween events to lively family Christmas gatherings.

WINTER

HOLIDAYS AT UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT ▸ Start the holiday festivities with the “Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular” at Universal Orlando Resort™. You do not want to miss out on the Holiday Parade that features Macy’s, which is a seasonal favorite that boasts life balloons and floats. Enjoy the spirit of the holidays with the special decorations and entertainment inside “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.” This is a must-see event that Harry Potter fans should not miss out on.

HOLIDAYS AT WALT DISNEY WORLD® RESORT ▸ Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party during the winter brings holiday cheer during selected nights. You will surely enjoy the new Christmas Fireworks show. Guests can also learn how the world celebrates during the Epcot® International Festival of the Holidays and listen to the story of Christmas that is presented by special narrators during the Candlelight Processional.

SEAWORLD® ORLANDO’S CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION ▸ If you will spend the holidays in Orlando, you will get the chance to meet Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer, view over three million sparkling lights along with a variety of additional seasonal activities

POPULAR CONCERT VENUES

CAMPING WORLD STADIUMV1 Citrus Bowl Pl., Orlando, FL 32805 ▸ www.campingworldstadium.com ▸ Camping World Stadium is a stadium in Orlando, FL, located in the West Lakes neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, west of new sports and entertainment facilities including the Amway Center, the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, and Exploria Stadium.

GARDEN THEATRE ▸ 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, FL 34787 ▸ The Garden Theatre is a refurbished, historic theatre located at 160 W. Plant St. in Winter Garden, FL. The Garden Theatre, which hosts over 200 events a season, including professional level theatre, music, dance and films.

AMWAY CENTER ▸ 400 W. Church St., Suite 200, Orlando, FL 32801 www.amwaycenter.com

Amway Center is an indoor arena located in Downtown Orlando, FL. The arena is home to the Orlando Magic of the NBA, the Orlando Solar Bears of the ECHL, and the Orlando Predators of the National Arena League. Amway Center hosted the 2012 NBA All-Star Game and the 2015 ECHL All-Star Game

APOPKA AMPITHEATER

3710 Jason Dwelley Pkwy., Apopka, FL 32712 ▸ www.apopka.gov

Concert and Event Venue

HOUSE OF BLUES ORLANDO ▸ 1490 E. Buena Vista Dr., Orlando, FL 32830 locations.houseofblues.com/restaurant-and-bar/fl/orlando/ ▸ Rock-and-bluesthemed chain with Southern dishes such as po’ boys and jambalaya, plus live music.

ORLANDO AMPHITHEATER ▸ 4603 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808 ▸ orlandoamphitheater.com ▸ The Orlando Amphitheater at Central Florida Fairgrounds is an outdoor, live entertainment venue in Orlando, FL. Since opening its doors in 2016, the 10,000-capacity lakeside venue has played host to hundreds of today’s biggest names in music, including Blink 182, Da Baby, Dirty Heads, Kodak Black, Pitbull, Travis Scott, Toby Keith, Tyler The Creator, Wiz Khalifa and many more!

THE ORLANDO PHILHARMONIC ORHESTRA ▸ 425 N. Bumby Ave., Orlando, FL 32803 ▸ orlandophil.org ▸ The Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra is Central Florida’s resident professional orchestra, appearing in more than 125 performances each season. Founded in 1993. At over $4 million, the Orlando Philharmonic has the largest endowment of any arts institution in Central Florida.

SPONSORS

This section has been created to give you easier access when searching for a trusted vendor to use. Take a minute to familiarize yourself with the businesses sponsoring your magazine. These local businesses are proud to partner with you and make this magazine possible. Please support these businesses and thank them for supporting the BeLocal community!

CARPET/FLOORING

Sanford Carpet and Flooring (407) 322-3241 www.sanfordcarpet.com

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Apopka Chamber of Commerce (407) 886-1441 apopkachamber.org

HEALTH AND FITNESS CENTER

Lake Nona Performance Club (407) 216-5672 x113 lakenonaperformanceclub.com

LOCAL ATTRACTION

Gatorland (407) 855-5496 www.gatorland.com

MASSAGE & FACIAL SPA

Massage LuXe (407) 749-6700 massageluxe.com/locations /ocoee-fl/

MASSAGE/FACIALS

Massage LuXE (407) 749-6700 massageluxe.com/locations /ocoee-fl/

MUSEUM & CAFE

World of Chocolate Museum and Café (786) 301-7554 wocorlando.com

PREPARATORY ACADEMY

Central Florida Prepatory School (407) 754-5864 www.cprep.org

REALTOR

Rachel Kisiel at HYSER. (303) 802-0684 hyser.com/agents/rachel-kisiel/

ROOFING

Xtreme Roofing & Construction (407) 960-5933 xtremeroofingpros.com

SALON/ INFRARED SAUNA

Perspire Sauna Studio (949) 669-1758 x312 www.perspiresaunastudio.com

SENIOR LIVING/REHAB & CARE

Sonata Senior Living sonataseniorliving.com

SKINCARE/COSMETICS

Mary Kay (513) 519-3151 Marykay.com/nanpowell

WEIGHT LOSS/HEALTH

Inspire Weight Loss Lake Nona (407) 837-3555 inspiredweightloss.com