66 Check out photos from the Wellen Park Half Marathon and 5K and Family Fun Day. 71 Whether picking up fresh bread, browsing handcrafted goods or discovering a new local brand, the Wellen Park markets offer a chance to support small businesses while enjoying a vibrant community gathering spot.
80 The 2026 Parade of Homes highlighted the quality and variety of homes offered across Wellen Park.
84 Wellen Park business owners and residents, Jennifer and Corey Pope, created Louie’s Bistro as a welcoming community hub. 88 The Ashcombe neighborhood brings increased townhome options to Wellen Park 92 Esplanade at Wellen Park brings a renewed focus on wellbeing. 95 Parting shot.
SPECIAL SECTION
46 Explore model homes from the Wellen Park
CALENDAR
Take your pick of ongoing and newly added events this Summer Come to Downtown Wellen to enjoy a variety of local music, arts and family-friendly events including National Trails Day, Bridal Expo and the Celebrate America Concert. Turn to page 61 for upcoming events.
EXPLORE
11 Summer Adventures await with top ten Florida weekend trips, three day trips and four cruise ports across Florida offering unique travel experiences. 28 From mocktails to cocktails, Wellen Park has all your punchy pours covered.
32 Mote SEA makes for the perfect day trip from Wellen Park. 36 Bright Ice, Wellen Park’s premier scoop shop, skips the shortcuts—and the syrups.
40 Step into nature as Wellen Park unveils three new trails to explore.
Welcome to your new friend: Wellen Park Living. You’ll find stories about the people behind fun-loving experiences in the neighborhood and beyond, sips and forkfuls of scrumptious food and crafted beverages and ways to soak in the abundant outdoor adventures just around the corner.
SIP INTO SUMMER
Oak+Stone’s Island Refresher
WELLEN
NEWLY OPENED
Wellen Park’s Oakheart Trail
THIS PAGE Oak+Stone’s Island Refresher and the trail map for Wellen Park’s Newly Opened Oakheart Trail, photography by Wyatt Kostygan. COVER CREDITS From hidden beach towns to buzzing coastal cities, Florida is calling—pack the car, chase the sunsets and turn every stop into a new and exciting adventure, photography by Wyatt Kostygan.
builders.
A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
Developer’s Update
Dear Wellen Park Community and Friends,
What an amazing time of year here in Southwest Florida.
Late spring may just be my favorite season—there’s an energy in the air that’s hard to miss. The weather invites us outside, and everywhere you look, people are out walking, biking, gathering, and simply enjoying all that makes Wellen Park special.
CEO / PRESIDENT EDITOR IN CHIEF CREATIVE DIRECTOR
LISL LIANG
EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER WES ROBERTS
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS AND ENGAGEMENT
Ashley Grant
ACCOUNTS DIRECTOR
Robinson Valverde
SENIOR SALES AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT EXECUTIVE
Suzanne Munroe
As a runner, I spend a lot of time on our streets and trails. It’s one of the best ways I know to experience a place—to really feel it. And as someone whose profession is centered around creating “place,” I’m always observing, always looking for those moments that define what makes a community truly great.
Recently, on a long run through Wellen Park, I experienced a series of those moments. I witnessed something simple, yet incredibly powerful—a true representation of the heart of this community; what I’ve come to call the Wellen Wave. Not the kind you see in a stadium, but something far more meaningful.
It’s the small, genuine gesture of acknowledgement—a wave from a neighbor as you pass by, a smile exchanged at a stop sign or a quick hello between strangers who happen to share the same trail or a love for their dogs along Grand Lake. It’s easy to overlook, but when you notice it, you realize it’s happening everywhere. Also, you can’t wave without smiling. I have tried.
In a world that often moves too fast, what would it look like if we all took just a little more time to connect? To acknowledge one another with something as simple as a smile and a wave? I encourage you to look for it here—and even more importantly, to practice it. Because I believe this is something truly special. I would love for Wellen Park to be known for our signature Wellen Wave.
A simple gesture that represents so much more—our commitment to connection, kindness and community pride.
It reminds us that we belong.
That we are connected.
That we are seen.
Our wave may be small, but I promise you— it can make a big impact.
Warm regards,
Rick Severance | President, Wellen Park
SALES AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT EXECUTIVE
Nichole Knutson
Rob Wardlaw
VP OF PHOTOGRAPHY + VIDEO
Wyatt Kostygan
MANAGING EDITOR
Barbie Heit
SENIOR EDITOR
Dylan Campbell
CLIENT SERVICES DIRECTOR
Gabriella Alfonso
SOCIAL MEDIA, MARKETING + EVENTS MANAGER
Lauren Sutter
CONTRIBUTING SENIOR DESIGNER Virginia Jankovsky
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS, ARTISTS + INTERNS
Rachel Constant, Kate Wight, Sarah Emily Miano, Cecilia Mould, and Stephanie Chum Lubow
FOR INQUIRIES REGARDING ADVERTISING, DISTRIBUTION OR STORIES, CONTACT US AT: WELLENPARK@SRQME.COM
EXPLORE Sunshine& Spontaneity
While everyone else flies north, Wellen Park residents know that Florida’s best season is hiding in plain sight .
WORDS BY SARAH EMILY MIANO
Florida
Summer along Florida’s Gulf Coast brings longer days, brighter skies and the permission to slow down. The state exhales; traffic thins. Crowded sands resume their natural order. Just south of Sarasota, Wellen Park puts residents within driving distance of stunning beaches, centuries-old cities, wild state parks and island escapes that others plan to visit months in advance.
TOSS A BAG IN THE TRUNK ON A FRIDAY AND BY SATURDAY you’ll be walking a sugar-sand beach in the Panhandle, strolling the cobblestone streets of America’s oldest city or catching the tarpon-feeding frenzy of a Keys dock at sunrise. This guide gathers fourteen of Florida’s most compelling destinations, all within reach for a weekend or a few days away. The North offers coastal towns and colonial history. Central delivers natural springs and major theme parks. The South blends urban culture and wilderness. Three daytrips round out the list if you’d rather sleep in your own bed. For those whose sense of adventure extends beyond the shore, four cruise ports sit nearby and, once aboard, a host of international destinations. Pack light. The roads are clear. Florida is yours.
THIS SPREAD CLOCKWISE
North Florida
Coastal Charm | 30A Scenic Highway
The string of towns along Scenic Highway 30A offer a unique Panhandle experience. Seaside, Rosemary Beach and Alys Beach have pastel cottages and pedestrian-friendly streets fronting white sand that slopes into emerald waters. You won’t need a car—walk or rent a bicycle instead. The Timpoochee Trail runs about 18.5 miles along 30A, weaving through coastal scrub and past rare dune lakes. Cyclists and walkers hit the path early and, by mid-morning, towns fill with market goers and café regulars. On Saturday mornings, the Seaside Farmers Market sets up at the Seaside Amphitheater with local seafood, honey and baked goods. On Sundays, at the Rosemary Beach market at Barrett Square, you can find everything from farm produce and grass-fed beef to homemade hot sauces and fresh pasta. For breakfast, Bud & Alley’s in Seaside offers gorgeous rooftop views while the Airstream Row food trucks serve up beach dogs, BBQ, tacos and gyros. Accommodations include stylish cottages and boutique inns rather than sprawling resorts. For dinner, enjoy Gulf seafood at Pescado Rooftop Bar in Rosemary Beach or Fish Out of Water at WaterColor Resort. Bring a bike and keep your agenda relaxed. Estimated Drive Time: 5 hours
Seaside’s recognizable Obe Pavilion by architect David Coleman; Urbanism-influenced planned community Rosemary Beach; The Pearl Hotel at Rosemary Beachl and Crepes Du Soleil at the Seaside Farmers Market.
Florida
Preserved Landscapes Amelia Island & Boneyard Beach
At Florida’s northeastern corner, near the Georgia line, Amelia Island rewards those who make the drive. The island is divided between two complementary experiences: the weathered driftwood of Boneyard Beach and the Victorian charm of downtown Fernandina Beach. Boneyard Beach, located within Big Talbot Island State Park, gets its name from the massive oak and cedar trees that have fallen to shore over centuries, their salt-bleached forms rising from the sand like sculptures. No swimming here; it’s best for walking, photography and reflection. Fernandina Beach’s historic district, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, sits on the north end. Front and Centre Streets bring the action via boutiques, galleries and restaurants. Stop for a drink at the Palace Saloon, which claims to be Florida’s oldest bar (surviving Prohibition by briefly converting to an ice cream parlor). For horseback rides on the beach, Amelia Island Horseback Riding and Happy Trails Walking Horses operate out of the State Park, the only in Florida that permits it. Estimated Drive Time: 5 hours
THIS SPREAD CLOCKWISE Boneyard Beach at sunset; The historic Fernandina Beach train depot is located at the foot of Centre Street in Amelia Island; Cape Canaveral Artemis II Launch; St. Augustine’s Historic District; Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex; St. Augustine’s Castillo de San Marcos National Monument; riding bikes at Daytona Beach; and NASCAR at the Daytona International Speedway.
Motorsports and Wide Shorelines | Daytona Beach
Daytona Beach built a reputation for speed: its hard-packed sand was used for land speed record attempts as early as 1902. That legacy remains. The beach, one of the few in Florida where driving on the sand is still permitted, stretches an exhilarating 23 miles—worth experiencing at least once, top-down in your convertible, even better. The Daytona Beach Boardwalk, running along South Atlantic Ave., offers full-on classics like the Joyland Amusement Park, your pick of waterfront seafood and the Daytona Beach Bandshell, which hosts free Saturday concerts. The International Speedway, home of the Daytona 500, holds guided tram tours on non-event days. The one-hour tour passes through Gatorade Victory Lane and the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, where 230 bronze sculptures capture racing legends in their defining moments. For more, the NASCAR Racing Experience gets you behind the wheel on the 2.5-mile superspeedway for both rides and driving sessions. Estimated Drive Time: 3 hours
Launch Sites and Coastal Town Cape Canaveral
This is where Apollo 11 launched in 1969 when the Space Shuttle program was born and where Artemis II launched this past April with the first crewed mission of the Artemis program, sending four astronauts around the Moon and back. Rockets still launch over the Atlantic frequently enough to plan your own trip around. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex opens daily at 9 am and warrants an entire day. Admission includes a tram tour of the launch pads and access to the Shuttle Atlantis exhibit, the Rock Garden and the Apollo/Saturn V Center. The Lunch with an Astronaut experience allows guests to hear firsthand accounts while dining. Check the NASA launch schedule before booking: admiring a rocket clear the pad from the shoreline is an experience that upstages most things on this list. From there, Cocoa Beach is only a 30-minute drive south. The Westgate Cocoa Beach pier, 800 feet over the Atlantic, offers seafood, live music and surf culture. Ron Jon Surf Shack Emporium ensures swimsuit and snorkel shopping round the clock. Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar in Port Canaveral provides waterfront dining with views of cruise ships departing the channel. Estimated Drive Time: 2.5 hours
America’s Oldest City | St. Augustine
Founded by Spanish explorers in 1565, St. Augustine calls for a meander through cobblestoned streets built over four centuries. Start at Castillo de San Marcos, the 17th-century coquina stone fortress overlooking Matanzas Bay. The National Monument offers ranger-led programs and cannon-firing demonstrations; afternoon visits catch the bay light at its dramatic peak. Walk south down St. George Street for boutique shopping and the Lightner Museum (housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, filled with Gilded Age curiosities). For lunch, there’s O’Steen’s, a no-frills local institution famous for fried shrimp. The St. Augustine Lighthouse, still operational, offers panoramic views of the coastline, should you brave the steps. Book a ghost tour after dark. Old City Ghosts departs nightly from the City Gates, covering the Huguenot Cemetery, Tolomato Cemetery and old fort grounds. The tours are rooted in documented accounts and—given the city’s age—thrillingly credible. Book ahead, as they fill quickly on weekends. Estimated Drive Time: 3.5 hours
Florida
Central Florida
Family Escape | Orlando Theme Parks
The big three—Walt Disney World, Universal and SeaWorld— make Orlando one of the most visited destinations on the planet. But how one actually does Orlando is worth considering; it can make the difference between an exhausting weekend and an inspiring one. Attempt one park per day, not two, with an afternoon pool break in mind. Resort properties offer enough amusement on their own—restaurants, pools, shops, spas, playgrounds, fitness centers, tennis and pickleball courts, golf courses and live shows. Even if not, what most locals have learned is how to take advantage of the extensive dining and entertainment provided at Disney Springs and Universal’s City Walk without the price of admission. At Disney Springs, take your pick of waterfront restaurants while browsing specialty shops, then enjoy a free outdoor concert stage in the evening. Meanwhile, SeaWorld’s Explorer’s Reef and aquarium exhibits offer wildlife viewing at a quieter pace than the parks. Insider’s tip: Resist the urge to do it all. Travelers who leave happiest are the ones who see less, savor more. Estimated Drive time: 2 hours.
THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE Expedition Everest ride at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Orlando, Florida; Crystal River aerial view; two young juvenile manatees at Three Sisters Springs at Crystal River.
Manatee Capital of the World | Crystal River
The spring waters of Kings Bay keep a year-round temperature of around 72 degrees Fahrenheit, drawing hundreds of West Indian manatees during cooler months and maintaining a resident population of 60 to 80 throughout the year. Crystal River—roughly an hour north—is the only place in Florida where swimming with manatees is legally permitted through regulated operators. Licensed operators run morning tours from Pete’s Pier Marina and Plantation Adventure Center on Kings Bay. River Ventures and Gulf Coast Expeditions both run well-regarded small-group snorkeling tours (the earlier the tour, the better the wildlife viewing). Three Sisters Springs—clear waters surrounded by limestone walls—makes for a picture-perfect location. For those who prefer to stay dry, clear-bottom kayak tours from Hunger Springs Park offer top-down views. Crowds on the water for manatee tours are significant during peak season, and the best operators fill quickly. But during the summer, you can enjoy them without rushing and just let the animals approach on their own terms. Estimated Drive Time: 1.5 hours.
Florida
South Florida
Glamour and Culture | Palm Beach & Miami
THIS PAGE, LEFT TO RIGHT Wynwood is the center of local gallery culture with the Wynwood Walls covering 80,000 square feet of outdoor murals; Art Deco hotels at Miami Beach, Palm Beach, Florida.
Begin your Palm Beach adventure on Worth Avenue, a legendary four-block corridor lined with shops, galleries, jewelers and outdoor cafes that make for a casual stroll. Before you hit the beach (calm water, white sand, chill vibes), venture to Henry Flagler’s 1902 winter estate, once called the Taj Mahal of North America: 75 rooms, marble columns, a hand-painted ceiling and a private railroad car parked in the basement. The architecture alone is worth the detour. Miami moves at a brisk pace without feeling chaotic. South Beach’s Art Deco Historic District—Ocean Drive, Collins Avenue—is the most intact collection of 1930s architecture anywhere in the world. If you’re staying over, the Art Deco hotels are a huge draw: Faena Miami Beach, theatrical and spectacular, has gold-accented interiors and a resident cabaret troupe; the Betsy is elegant and calmer, with a rooftop spa and steakhouse. The Pérez Art Museum, perched on Biscayne Bay in Museum Park, with hanging garden terraces visible from the water, delivers a bay view and must-see exhibitions. Wynwood, a short jaunt north, is the center of local gallery culture. The Wynwood Walls cover 80,000 square feet of outdoor murals while the surrounding streets are lined with restaurants that consistently make national lists. Doya draws with its wood-fired Aegean mezze and open-air patio garden; Pastis Miami brings a French bistro from New York’s West Village; Hiyakawa serves refined omakase in a sleek space. For the evening, consider Coconut Grove—Miami’s oldest neighborhood, lush with banyan trees and bayside views—which more recently became the city’s classiest dining hub. Glass and Vine sits at the edge of Peacock Park with outdoor tables beneath a canopy of oaks; Carbone Vino serves the spicy rigatoni that made the New York original famous. Estimated Drive Time: 3.5 hours to Palm Beach, 4.5 hours to Miami
Wetlands and Wildlife | Everglades
The scale of the Everglades stretches far beyond initial sightlines. At 1.5 million acres, it’s the third-largest national park in the mainland United States, a Unesco World Heritage Site and an ecosystem unlike anywhere else. The sawgrass prairie—technically a slow-moving river less than two feet deep across most of its width—supports American alligators, roseate spoonbills and several hundred bird species. Airboat rides operate outside the park boundary along Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41). Coopertown, Everglades Safari Park and Gator Park hold the only permits to launch into actual National Park waters from the Shark Valley area. Inside, the Anhinga Trail offers amazing wildlife sightings: alligators, turtles and eponymous birds within arm’s reach. The Shark Valley Tram Tour culminates at a 45-foot observation tower with sweeping views of the wetlands. Remember to bring SPF, mosquito repellent and bottled water. Estimated Drive Time: 3 hours
Florida
Island Delights | The Florida Keys
THIS PAGE, LEFT TO RIGHT Snorkeling Key Largo and Christ of the Deep Statue; People sitting at outside outdoor patio court eating by tables on chairs at DJ’s clam shack seafood local restaurant cafe; and Port Canaveral is home to Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Disney, MSC, Princess, Celebrity and Norwegian.
The Overseas Highway runs 113 miles and crosses 42 bridges over waters so clear and shallow that you can see the bottom from the car window. The journey is half the experience, so don’t rush. Key Largo, the first island, holds John Pennekampp Coral Reef State Park with snorkeling tours departing daily. In Islamorada, known as the Sportfishing Capital of the World, the tarpon feeding dock at Robbie’s Marina sells bait for anyone wanting to feed the massive fish that crowd the pilings. Over at Lorelei Cabana Bar on the bay side, catch the archetypal Keys sunset and some live music any day of the week. Key West deserves a whole day. Start at Blue Heaven in Bahama Village for breakfast under the flora—pecan pancakes, shrimp Benedict, Key lime pie—before walking to the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. Here, from 1931-1939, Hemingway lived and produced some of his most significant work in the studio above the carriage house. For the “full Hemingway”, head to a tasting at the rum distillery named for his fishing boat, Papa’s Pilar. For dinner, Nine One Five on Duval delivers creative contemporary cooking while Bagatelle, two doors down, beautifully executes local seafood in a Victorian house with courtyard seating. At night, Mallory Square’s Sunset Celebration attracts street performers, local artists and a diverse crowd. Be sure to walk Duval Street for the bars and architecture, then head one block in any direction for the wooden Conch houses that make up the island’s real character. Estimated Drive Time: 4 hours to Key Largo, 5.5 hours to Key West.
Florida’s
Unmatched Cruise Ports
Florida’s west and east coasts offer some of the most convenient and exciting cruise departure points in the country, each with its own unique advantages for travelers looking to set sail. Together, these four ports highlight Florida’s unmatched accessibility and variety in cruise travel, giving passengers multiple ways to begin their journey at sea. The state’s largest port, Port Tampa Bay, offers five leading cruise lines that take guests to stunning destinations throughout the Caribbean and Central America. Located near popular theme park Busch Gardens and highly acclaimed beaches in St. Petersburg and Clearwater, the port offers a range of fun activities before and after setting sail. The port is conveniently located just an hour and a half away from Wellen Park and offers the perfect opportunity for travelers to visit Tampa before their cruise. On Florida’s west coast, Port Canaveral is one of the world’s busiest cruise ports and has received multiple awards for its high-quality guest experience. Touting some of the world’s best cruise ships, the port hosts seven major cruise lines with destinations around the world. The port, located near Orlando, also offers magical Disney cruises for a perfect family vacation. Combine a cruise with a visit to one of the many nearby theme parks or to the Kennedy Space Center. Recognized as the Cruise Capital of the World, Port Miami offers 26 cruise lines going around the world. With its proximity to the Bahamas and the Caribbean, Miami is the perfect gateway for a tropical vacation. The port also offers trips around the globe, spanning Europe, Asia, Africa and South America for those looking to travel further from home. Its central location in Miami also means travelers can easily extend their trip with time in the city, enjoying beaches, dining and nightlife before or after their cruise. Just up the coast, Port Everglades is known for its efficiency and offers another major gateway to the Caribbean and beyond. In the heart of Fort Lauderdale, arriving a few days early gives travelers the opportunity to explore the dynamic vacation destination before setting sail. Offering 10 cruise lines—including a second departure location for Disney cruises—the port allows travelers to choose from a range of cruise lengths and locations. —Cecilia Mould
Florida
Daytrips
At least three of Florida’s notable destinations are close enough to Wellen Park for a same-day return, plenty of time for good food, inspiring scenery, cultural and historical treasures, natural wonders. Whether the pull is powdery sand, curated museums or active downtowns, these day trips put a significant amount of Florida’s best within easy reach.
Polished Coastline | Naples
Lively dolphins visible from the shoreline, the tranquil beaches of Naples draw visitors who prefer shelling to jet skiing. The Naples Pier, a 19th-century landmark rebuilt after several hurricanes, serves as the go-to spot for sunset watching: bring binoculars. On either end of your day, hit the downtown shopping areas, such as Fifth Avenue South, which is packed with galleries, restaurants and boutiques. In contrast, Third Street runs a little quieter, with independent shops and art-filled courtyards. There’s a farmer’s market every Saturday morning behind Tommy Bahama. For dining, try Campanello for consistently good Italian fare or The Continental, with its bougainvillea-covered exterior, ranked among OpenTable’s Top 100 Outdoor Dining Restaurants in the country. Estimated Drive Time: 1 hour
THIS PAGE, LEFT TO RIGHT
Fifth Avenue shopping in Naples; Shopping district Downtown Old Naples and Botanical Gardens in Naples.
Florida
Beaches & Arts | Clearwater & St. Petersburg
Clearwater Beach claims some of the finest white sand on the Gulf. Pier 60’s nightly Sunset Celebration draws street performers and vendors starting two hours before sundown. Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill on the beach has served grouper sandwiches for decades. To avoid the crowds, check out Indian Rocks Beach, which has a quieter, old-Florida feel and nice local eateries. Sand Key Park, just south, offers a serene vibe with a nature trail. And of course, there’s always the Pinellas Trail, worth exploring by bike. Also north of Clearwater, Dunedin has a walkable downtown, craft breweries and a lovely little farmer’s market. Safety Harbor offers historic charm and a relaxed bayfront setting. Cross the causeway to St. Petersburg for a nice dose of culture. The Salvador Dalí Museum on the downtown waterfront houses the largest collection of Dalí’s work outside Spain, within a striking geodesic glass structure. The St. Pete Pier connects the Dalí to the Museum of Fine Arts with a walking path along Tampa Bay, plus Pier Teaki’s rooftop bar for sundowners. For shopping, the Mall at Sundial is a chic open-air center downtown with national brands and local favorites. Feeling artsy? Check out the boutiques along Central Avenue and the 600-Block Arts District. There’s also plenty of great vintage shopping to be had, from the ARTpool Gallery to The Antique Galleries. St. Pete is known for a vibrant live music scene, whether you prefer rock, indie, jazz or ska. Estimated Drive Time: 1 hour
THIS PAGE, LEFT TO RIGHT St. Pete Pier in Downtown St. Petersburg; Museum of Fine Art, in Downtown St. Petersburg; Clearwater Ferris Wheel; Weedon Island Preserve Paddleboarding; in St. Petersburg; and, The Dali Museum.
Florida
City of Energy on the Bay | Tampa
Approach Tampa like the urban landscape it is, and you’ll never be disappointed. Sure, there’s Busch Gardens, with more than 200 animal species and the most thrilling roller coasters in the world, but there’s a compelling argument for doing both. Start in Ybor City, the historic Cuban-American neighborhood northeast of downtown. Seventh Avenue runs the length of the district, lined with brick buildings that used to be cigar factories back when Tampa was the “Cigar Capital of the World.” The Columbia Restaurant, opened in 1905 and still operating, serves Cuban and Spanish cuisine in a historical atmosphere. C. Newman Cigar Company still hand-rolls cigars on the premises; factory tours run weekdays. At night, Ybor City comes alive with bars, clubs, cocktail lounges and live music venues. The Tampa Riverwalk links Ybor to downtown, passing the Florida Aquarium, the Tampa Museum of Art and Armature Works—a converted 1910 maintenance facility now an exceptional food hall with local vendors offering craft coffee and ice cream, tacos and tequila, empanadas and all-day brunch. Ulele restaurant combines a gorgeous riverfront setting with an inventive Native-American-inspired menu. The historic Tampa Heights area has a creative, under-the-radar vibe, with microbreweries and boutique shops. In Hyde Park, visit the Oxford Exchange for brunch, coffee, books and a shoeshine. Led by Chef Chris Ponte, On Swann serves refined American cuisine—hanger steak frites and short-rib pasta—in a stylish setting. Bern’s Steak House, known for its extensive wine collection, pairs perfectly with a stay at the Epicurean Hotel across the way. Estimated Drive Time: 1 hour
THIS PAGE, LEFT TO RIGHT Tampa Riverwalk; Florida Aquarium in Downtown Tampa, Centro Ybor in Ybor City.
imbibes
BELOW: Downtown Wellen makes it cool to be hot in the summer with refreshing drinks designed to fit every taste.
SipIntoSummer
From mocktails to cocktails, Wellen Park has all your punchy pours covered. WORDS BY SARAH EMILY MIANO
IN FLORIDA SUMMERS, THE QUESTION BECOMES NOT WHETHER YOU WANT SOMETHING COLD BUT WHICH COLD THING YOU REALLY WANT. The watering holes of Wellen Park have given this serious thought, and the results span everything from floral tequila cocktails to ice-cold shaker lemonades and zero-proof mocktails.
HIBISCUS MARGARITA
ORANGE-ROSE LEMONADE ICED TEA SHAKER
At the BANYAN HOUSE the Hibiscus Margarita has secured a signature place by popular demand. The bartending team creates its own hibiscus syrup, steeping real flowers to draw out lovely pastel aromatics. The drink arrives chilled and up, in a martini glass, a deliberate departure from tradition. “Our hibiscus margarita is something that we are extremely proud of,” says General Manager Stacy Jones. “Definitely a fan favorite since we started running it.” Instead of “a salted rim that can overpower the flavor profile,” she says, they use “a refreshing citrus salt foam that balances everything.” The Herradura Tequila finishes crisp, the rose water keeps it subtly sweet, while the lime gives it a bright, lively lift. For a tropical tipple, opt for the Banyan’s Mai Tai: Pilar Light Rum, Orange Curaçao, lime juice, orgeat syrup and a Dark Rum floater topped with passion fruit foam.
OAK & STONE’S serious kitchen comes with a bar program built on the principle that every diner deserves something worth drinking. “We’ve always had some form of a non-alcoholic drink,” says General Manager Danielle Kurschner. “We want everyone to be involved when they go out with their friends or to a nice dinner.” About a year ago, the team made that commitment with a dedicated craft mocktail menu, which has gained popularity among restaurants statewide. The Island Refresher combines muddled strawberry and pineapple, orange juice, lemon juice, in-house honey syrup and Sprite. Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing, Kurschner says, “it’s definitely the way to go.” Meanwhile, the Bright & Sunny—their warm-weather take on a Dark & Stormy—pairs Ritual Zero-proof Rum with lemon, honey and ginger beer. Newest to the menu, and the expected hit for the summertime, the Sparkling Watermelon Lemonade “blows every form of a Fresco flavor out of the water”, Kurschner assures. A side note: this location offers a non-alcoholic beer “for guests who want to enjoy the tap wall and not sit at the table by themselves.”
ISLAND REFRESHER
imbibes
STRAWBERRY SERENADE
AT-HOME SUMMER SIPS
Passion Fruit Iced Tea
Combine 4 black tea (Earl Grey) bags and 1/4 cup passion fruit purée (Goya makes a good frozen one) in a large jar. Fill with cold water and refrigerate overnight. Strain, sweeten with honey to taste, and serve over ice with a squeeze of fresh lime.
Grapefruit-Mint Shrub Fizz Mocktail
Make the shrub ahead. Combine 1/2 cup fresh grapefruit juice, 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, and 1/4 cup honey and shake until the honey dissolves. Refrigerate—it keeps for two weeks. To serve, pour 2 oz shrub over ice in a highball, top with sparkling water, and finish with a slapped mint sprig. Add 2 oz Zero Proof Tequila, if the occasion calls for it.
Sour Boulevardier Cocktail
At ACQUA PAZZA COASTAL ITALIAN, alfresco seating evokes the Amalfi coast, while the dining area follows with ocean blues and warm yellows. The Strawberry Serenade allures with rosé, elderflower, vanilla and fresh strawberries into something pink and gently sweet. Order one at the bar before dinner, grab a table on the patio and let the golden hour work its magic. For day-drinking or post-pickleball gladness, head to FOXTAIL COFFEE for the Orange-Rose Lemonade Iced Tea Shaker: chamomile rose tea shaken and poured over lemonade and orange bitters. Floral and tangy, the tea is “perfectly balanced by the lemonade’s subtle sweetness,” with undertones of orange and cranberry, says Marketing Assistant Mailyn Stiffler. “It’s a beautifully layered drink reminiscent of a summer sunset,” she adds, “great for cooling down and refreshing.” But if the Farmer’s Market crowd has beaten you there, no worries, the line moves fast. Worth knowing: this location serves beer and wine, making it one of the most versatile spots on the boulevard.
Sour Boulevardier (cocktail): Combine 1.5 oz bourbon, 1 oz Campari, 1 oz sweet vermouth and 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice in a shaker with ice. Shake hard for fifteen seconds—longer than you think—and strain into a coupe or rocks glass. Express an orange peel over the top and drop it in.
Photo-worthy cocktails and mocktails are overflowing in Downtown Wellen.
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Large sharks swim in Florida’s Gulf Coast Gallery at Mote SEA.
“IT’S LIKE WHEN YOU’RE LOOKING AT A PAINTING IN A MUSEUM— the longer you look, the more that comes to life,” I say to Amber Smalley, the Marketing and Public Relations Manager at Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. We’re standing in front of the Living On the Edge habitat, on the second floor of Mote Science and Education Aquarium (SEA), which opened October 2025 in Sarasota’s University Town Center. The habitat is one of Smalley’s favorites, smaller than the rest of the habitats on the floor, oft-overlooked, yet brimming with life. Garden eels wait for plankton to drift by, around while shrimpfish bob up and down, a gentle current passes through, rippling the coral reef passing over the starfish on the white sand floor.
Where SCIENCE MEETS THE SEA
To illustrate just how wondrous an experience Mote SEA offers, one need not look at the animals themselves, but at the eyes of the humans looking at the animals. Smalley’s eyes—along with every other visitor—remained ablaze throughout our two-plus hour tour, marveling at the abundance of life at Mote SEA. For Smalley, the Shallow Indo-Pacific Reef habitat is an opportunity to see something completely different than the Florida marine life she grew up with. One of the three floors in the still-new, $132 million aquarium, the Indo-Pacific Life Gallery introduced an entirely new set of species and ecosystems to Mote SEA. Giant Pacific Octopus, penguins, Giant Crab and countless other marine species live on the aquarium’s circular second floor.
“I’ve been in the water since I’ve been allowed to swim and these are fish that I’ve never seen up close and personal,” says Smalley. “I’ve never seen penguins in real life, I’ve never seen a Giant Pacific Octopus—all of these new species are so different from the fish we had before.” Originally founded in 1955, Mote Marine Laboratory is amongst the largest marine research laboratories in Florida, with research campuses throughout the state. What began as a one-room laboratory created by marine scientist Dr. Eugenie Clark has built into a marine science institution, with research projects taking place all over the world in areas ranging from
Marine Animal Rescue and Habitation to Biomedical and Technology Development. Mote SEA, is the organization’s latest initiative, a three-story spherical behemoth that houses not only a vast array of marine life, but also laboratories for research and education.
“We want to make sure that marine science education is our first and foremost priority of this aquarium,” says Smalley, outside of the three STEM training labs on the aquarium’s first floor. “These labs are for K-12 students, and we’re estimating that we get about 70,000 students, free of charge, through here every year. We’ve built our curriculum hand in hand with local schools—it’s more than just a fun day at the aquarium, it’s an original educational experience that is hands-on with the scientists.”
Mote SEA is perhaps best experienced from the top level down, starting at the Florida Waters Gallery. Florida contains over 11 million acres of freshwater habitat—each different “habitat” within the gallery showcases a different type of species and their difference of environments in which they live. The wetland habitat is home to two American river otters, sisters Stella and Finn, who love to put on a show. “They’re just about the cutest things you’ll ever see in your life. They have such personality, it’s incredible,” attests Smalley. A massive alligator snapping turtle lives in the murky floodplain swamp habitat, camouflaging itself into the
Mote SEA makes for the perfect day trip from Wellen Park. WORDS BY DYLAN CAMPBELL
science
BELOW
A young visitor marvels at one of Mote’s American river otters; Mote SEA is home to countless species of marine life; the Portal to the Gulf tunnel gives a panoramic view of Mote SEA’s 400,000 gallon tank.
tannin-stained water. Two of Mote’s most popular residents, Buffett and Lou, live in the freshwater springs habitat. The manatees, which consume over 100 pounds of produce per day, are an excellent ambassador species for Mote. Lou and Buffet’s tank is next to a gated “care pool”, with a window for viewing, so that visitors can see how Mote’s scientists care for these members of the threatened species. Also in the Florida Freshwater Gallery are the fish, crustaceans, shellfish and reptiles that populate Florida’s estuaries, such as diamondback terrapin turtles and the southern crayfish, along with the Pine flatwoods habitat, which houses a gopher tortoise.
The third floor is home to Mote SEA’s Conservation STEM Workforce Development Lab, where live culture systems are used to grow jellyfish, sea horses and brine shrimp at various life stages as a food supply. An Ocean technology wall outside the lab displays all of the different technology Mote scientists use in their work, and a Virtual Reality experience allows visitors to get a POV of the aquamarine action.
In addition to housing the Indo-Pacific Gallery, the second floor also holds the Fisheries and Aquaculture STEM Workforce Development Lab. In this lab, Mote scientists and students work together to advance aquaculture and fisheries research, such as monitoring whether a certain species of fish responds in a different manner to a man-made mangrove habitat rather than an organic one. Floor two also includes a veterinary clinic and a Coral Reef STEM Workforce Development Lab and ensuing Florida Keys Reef habitat.
For residents of the area, the first floor of Mote SEA is what feels most like home. Florida’s Gulf Coast Gallery holds so much of the local marine wildlife, from the coastal fish habitat with snook that Mote worked to repopulate throughout Phillipi Creek to the enchanting moon jellies to the seagrass habitat, stingray encounter exhibit, Florida invertebrate encounter and more.
“I always like to point out the intention with all of our touching encounters,” says Smalley. “As you can see upstairs with the sharks as is here, we make sure that the animals have plenty of room to move around. If they don’t want to be touched, they should not have to be touched. We need to respect them and that’s how they respect us.” The first floor also includes perhaps the best way to view the centerpiece of Mote SEA, the Florida Gulf habitat. The 400,000-gallon two-tiered tank features a live Florida coral reef and is home to a wide array of species, from the looming sand tiger sharks, sea turtles, snook, tarpon, parrot fish, butterfly fish and more. Inside the Portal to the Gulf tunnel, large sharks and sting rays float above your head, beckoning you to come into their world. It’s the type of experience that can only be had at Mote SEA, which is home to some of the most unique wonders of the marine world, just a quick drive away from Wellen Park. Mote Science Education Aquarium, 225 University Town Center Dr., Sarasota.
sweets ScoopDreams
Bright Ice, Wellen Park’s premier scoop shop, skips the shortcuts—and the syrups. WORDS BY SARAH EMILY MIANO
FLORIDA SUMMERS MAKE ICE CREAM FEEL LIKE A NECESSITY, more than just dessert. Wellen Park generates no shortage of occasions: farmers markets, waterway strolls, weekend festivities full of friends, family and sunshine. Bright Ice Scoop Shop fits the rhythm, and its origin story begins with a nagging question on a drive home. One fine Florida afternoon in 2017, at school year’s end, Steven Garrahan took his kids and a few friends to a shaved ice place. The product was tasty enough. But something didn’t sit right: artificial syrups. What if something similar could be created, all-natural? He brought the question to his friend Kurt Drake, an architect with a creative streak and a countertop Cuisinart. They considered shaved ice, then thought bigger: ice cream, made from scratch, with real ingredients and bolder flavor. The blind taste tests said everything. “Hands down, I liked what he was developing more than what we bought from the store,” Garrahan recalls. “His flavors were richer and more intense.”
sweets
DRAKE’S EARLY EXPERIMENTS INCLUDED ROASTED STRAWBERRIES WITH BROWN SUGAR AND BALSAMIC, which remains one of their 17 “always” flavors, a recipe that “hasn’t changed at all, not a single ingredient” since its inception: whole strawberries roasted with brown sugar, fresh lemon juice and zest and a smidge of balsamic vinegar. Each tub contains 4.5 pounds of berries, simmered down until jammy and unctuous, the balsamic creating a sweet-tart depth that outlasts your first lick. This is the Bright Ice approach: whole ingredients, no concentrates, artificial dyes, syrups or shortcuts. Co-founders Garrahhan and Drake—an engineer and an architect—spent six months and 100 pages of research before opening their first St. Petersburg location on a local bank loan back in November 2019. “Writing that business plan clarified the whole scope for us,” Garrahan says. Soon after, COVID shutdowns arrived. “We’ll never know how our first year would’ve been,” he says. “St. Pete welcomed us with open arms. I still can’t get over it.”
A second location in Pinellas Park came in February 2021, where Bright Ice currently runs its commissary kitchen. Three full-time staff operate two machines, churning out about 50 tubs an hour on a weekly rotation. “We don’t mass produce,” Garrahan says. “One batch at a time.” The small-batch model keeps quality high and the recipe list flexible, with rotating seasonal and holiday specials cycling around those “always” flavors.
Seven years and five locations later, not one recipe has changed to save money or cut corners. “We have modified a recipe based solely on employee feedback, customer feedback or kitchen feedback,” says Garrahan, “for example, if a recipe was so time-consuming.”
Wellen Park entered the picture when Garrahan and Drake read an article about the fast-growing development and drove south to see it for themselves. “Wellen Park was just dirt at the time,” Garrahan remembers. Touring the neighborhood confirmed everything—health-conscious, walkable, built around community. “It was
BELOW
Bright Ice Scoop Shop serves high-quality, scratch-made ice cream to keep Wellen Park residents cool and happy all summer long. Visit brighticeisnice.com to learn more.
a very upbeat, vibrant, active area, and we thought, ‘we want to be in here’,” he says. “And we’re so happy we are.”
Drake, who leads design decisions, brought that same creativity to the buildout. Every finish and piece of furniture was crafted as deliberately as the recipes. The decor draws on old-Florida beach vibes—weathered-wood paneling and a poured-concrete floor cast in stripes, to suggest sand underfoot. A 32-foot mural commissioned specifically for this location captures the contemporary energy of the Park itself. The place pops with colors that make children pull their parents through the door.
From a kids’ scoop for smaller appetites to three coconut milk-based flavors serving vegan and non-dairy eaters, the menu fits everyone. Several pay tribute to the state outright: Key Lime Pie, Orange Kissed Coconut Cake. For those all in, there’s the hugely popular Caramelized Banana with Peanut Butter and Honey. A tub begins with 7.5 pounds of ripe bananas, roasted on baking sheets with brown sugar and cinnamon until the kitchen smells insanely sweet, like your grandmother’s on a Sunday. As the batch emerges, peanut butter and honey get drizzled in. “I don’t even know if our banana ice cream can technically be called ice cream,” Garrahan says, “because there is so much banana in it.” The key lime, relying on real juice without additives, debuted as a limited run in 2023 and earned a permanent spot by popular demand—tart, cold, unmistakably Floridian. The Kahlua with Espresso draws on a decaf house blend finished with Kahlua and chocolate-covered espresso bits and lands bitter and sweet at once, almost closer to a cocktail.
Back in St. Pete, Bright Ice recently procured a building large enough to house an expanded commissary kitchen alongside a new venture, Kitty’s House of Pizza, a concept the two have been developing for a few years. “Ultimately, it’s us,” Garrahan says. “We are a small business.” The batches will stay small; they’ll just be more of them. And the recipes will stay fun, inventive and most importantly: real. Nearly eight years in, that’s still the whole bright idea. WPL
Connected
ByTrails
OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS, TAKE NOTE: Wellen Park is expanding its pedestrian-friendly network with about 10 miles of new trails. This growing system connects walkers, cyclists and joggers, strengthening community ties while promoting wellness. The trails extend the community’s outdoor lifestyle and encourage residents to explore beyond their own neighborhoods. With Oakheart Trail, Buttonwood Trail and The Greenway, Wellen Park aims to create more opportunities for recreation and connection. “These trails are more than just pathways—they’re an extension of how people live, connect and recharge. By weaving nature into everyday life, we’re creating a community where wellness, exploration and togetherness happen naturally,” shares Wellen Park President, Rick Severance.
PHOTOGRAPHY
THIS SPREAD: Wellen Park’s trails and pathways promote wellness and community, every step of the way.
Three New Trails to Explore in Wellen Park. WORDS BY BARBIE HEIT
THE GREENWAY DISTANCE .75 MILES
Pollinator Garden Designed to support butterflies, bees and other pollinators Native Plant Focus Showcases Florida-friendly, low-maintenance landscaping Neighborhood Link Provides a quiet, walkable connection between adjacent communities and Downtown Wellen Short and Strollable Ideal for quick walks and dog outings
Seasonal Color Bloom cycles bring changing colors throughout the year Educational Element Subtle opportunity to learn about pollinators and native ecosystems
PATHS TO HEALTH AND WELLBEING
Give your health a boost out on the trails! Research has shown that spending time outdoors can improve your mood by lowering cortisol, reducing anxiety and increasing levels of serotonin and dopamine. Regular exposure to nature boosts mental performance, supporting memory, creativity and problem-solving. Outdoor recreation can also reduce mental fatigue and improve focus, which is particularly beneficial for children. And for those looking for some zen, a trail experience can promote mindfulness through
meditation and thoughtful practice–offering an opportunity to “unplug” from phones and computers. Trail exercise also offers a range of physical benefits, from moderate to vigorous activity. These benefits include strengthening muscles, improving cardiovascular health, lowering blood pressure and aiding in weight management. “Access to outdoor spaces isn’t a luxury—it’s essential to healthy living. These trails encourage active lifestyles, reduce stress and provide an opportunity for residents to engage with the natural environment right outside their doors,” says Severance.
PATHS THAT BRING PEOPLE TOGETHER
If you really want to get to know someone, bring them out for a trail walk or bike ride! “A connected trail network brings people closer—not just to nature, but to each other,” says Severance. “Whether it’s a morning walk with the dog, a bike ride with family or meeting neighbors along the way, these spaces foster meaningful connections that define great communities.” Spending time together on trails is a wonderful way to strengthen existing relationships and foster new connections. Even a short, hour-long walk can deepen your bond with neighbors and help spark new friendships. For children, nature trails offer an unstructured setting for shared exploration, which can help improve peer relationships, reduce conflict and build essential negotiation and collaboration skills.
SAFEGUARDING NATURE, ELEVATING BEAUTY
Trails are not just good for people, they’re good for the environment, too! Serving as greenways, they are crucial for habitat protection, helping to preserve natural landscapes, safeguard wildlife and connect habitats. These scenic pathways support improved air and water quality, prevent soil erosion and function as natural floodplains. They also play a vital role in promoting environmental awareness by providing opportunities for people to appreciate, learn about and care for the natural world around them.
WELLEN’S NATURAL PERK
Step outside and enjoy a more connected way of living. Trails make it easy to weave movement, fresh air, and convenience into your daily routine— whether you’re heading to school, meeting friends, or running a quick errand. With safe, scenic paths just moments away, walking or biking becomes less of a task and more of a natural, enjoyable part of your day. As an amenity, trails rank at the top of what matters most to homebuyers. “Trails are the number one amenity homebuyers want and they’re the number one amenity residents use most when they move in,” adds Severance. “New residents may never step foot on the tennis court, but they’ll use the trails. The investment in trail systems for generations to come adds value to a community.” WPL
OAKHEART TRAIL
DISTANCE 3 MILES
Neighborhood Connector Direct link from Brightmore, Everly and Lakespur Wildlife Spotting Frequent sightings of birds and small native wildlife Fishing Pier Access Dedicated spot to cast a line along the trail School Connection Provides direct access to Wellen Park High School for students Dock The dock overlooking a mature lake creates a perfect sunrise photo moment Trailhead Amenities Includes a convenient restroom facility and parking for cars and bicycles
OAKHEART TRAIL AT WELLEN PARK
Opened in March 2026, the Oakheart Trail offers residents and visitors a new 3-mile natural path for walking, biking and exploring within the heart of Wellen Park. This social connector is designed to link various community points, including Wellen Park High School, Downtown Wellen and CoolToday Park. Located within the Playmore District, the trail can be accessed through several public entry points and Brightmore, Everly and Lakespur neighborhoods. The Oakheart Trail is also easily accessed via the broader trail network from Downtown Wellen, where visitors can rent bicycles and kayaks from Wellen Park Outfitters. The scenic trail features wide shell paths and boardwalks winding alongside a 50-acre lake, preserved wetlands, and natural areas, with a lakeside fishing pier perfect for anglers. Additionally, the dock offers a perfect location for a sunrise photograph. Frequent sightings of birds and small native wildlife are also likely. Currently, the surrounding vegetation consists of many young saplings, meaning the trail is quite open and sunny. Because of its open nature, a morning walk is an ideal way to enjoy the trail without stress. Parking and restrooms are conveniently provided at the trailhead. The trail is wheelchair accessible at its parking areas.
THIS PAGE Head out to Wellen Park’s trails for some exercise or a little vitamin D.
BELOW
The trails of Wellen Park make it easy to connect, unwind and enjoy the best of nature all year long.
BUTTONWOOD TRAIL
DISTANCE 2.5 MILES
Neighborhood Connector Direct link to the Palmera neighborhood Shaded Canopies The trail winds through scenic wetlands, with sections of tree canopies framing the path and boardwalks
Wildlife Spotting Frequent sightings of birds and native wetland species
Peaceful and Quiet Ideal for slower-paced walks and nature immersion
BUTTONWOOD TRAIL
Buttonwood Trail is a 2.5-mile path with a mix of shell and boardwalk surfaces that lives up to its name, winding through beautiful wetlands rich with Buttonwood trees and other native plants. Visitors can look for the trees’ distinctive reddish-brown, cone-like fruits that resemble vintage leather buttons throughout the year. If you visit during the blooming season, watch and smell for the small greenish-white flowers, which some people say have a sweet, grape soda-like fragrance. The Buttonwood trees and Buttonbush attract many butterflies, including the Monarch, Zebra Longwing and Martial Scrub Hairstreak. This less-trafficked trail is perfect for slow, immersive nature walks. The trail’s westerly direction means beautiful evening skies and frequent sightings of native wetland creatures, offering excellent photo opportunities. The trail runs alongside the Palmera neighborhood, blending scenic overlooks of new community architecture with preserved green spaces, and a private, gated entrance is available for Palmera residents. The Buttonwood Trail features a mix of sun-exposed shell paths and shaded areas, including wooded clusters and boardwalks. The elevated boardwalks over the wetlands are prime locations for observing wading birds like Great Blue Herons, Snowy Egrets, White Ibis and Roseate Spoonbills foraging in the shallow water. Keep an eye out for protected gopher tortoises in the drier, sandy upland sections near the shell paths. Early morning and dusk visitors may also spot white-tailed deer, marsh rabbits and other fauna moving through the brush.
THE GREENWAY
The Greenway is an easily accessible park, perfect for a brief walk–with or without your canine pal–or a relaxed stroll. Although it’s only three-quarters of a mile long, its smooth, paved surface is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for strollers and other mobility equipment. This trail connects to larger routes, such as the 2.75-mile Grand Lake Loop and the 1.5-mile Blue Heron Park Loop, offering wide-open sections with various waterfront views. In addition to being a functional path, The Greenway serves as a showcase for Florida’s native ecosystem. It features native plantings with changing bloom cycles throughout the year and is designed to support essential pollinators like butterflies and bees, offering visitors a chance to learn about them. To ensure comfort, the park includes shaded benches, drinking fountains and designated rest areas, specifically built to offer a welcome break from the Florida sun.
WELLEN PARK NEIGHBORHOODS MAP
ACACIA PALMERA
ANCLOTE SUNSTONE
BISCAYNE II EVERLY
COSTA MESA OAKBEND
DELMAR II LAKESPUR
DREAM II PALMERA
EGRET V PALMERA
LAPIS BRIGHTMORE
MAINSTAY II EVERLY
MARIA WELLEN PARK GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB
PALLAZIO II ESPLANADE
PALM PALMERA
PEARSON ASHCOMBE
POSITANO II EVERLY
RUBYTAIL PALMERA
SANDCASTLE II BOCA ROYALE
SILVER SKY II AVELINA
THE COVE OAKBEND
TIDELAND PALMERA
TIDEWATER II WYSTERIA
TIDEWINDS II GRAND PALM
TYBEE LAKESPUR
WARRINA EVERLY
SUMMER 2026 | GUIDE TO BUILDERS
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• 4 new model homes open daily
• Expansive kitchen with generous island and adjacent great room
• Low-maintenance, lock and leave lifestyle
• Fun-filled amenities open for all residents to enjoy
• Covered/screened lanai included
• The floor plan
• The master bedroom includes two closets, dual
• A separate den,
and 2 additional bedrooms and second bath complete the
• Custom Luxury Single-story Home
• Designed to o er the perfect blend of indoor & outdoor living
• Elegant finishes and finely crafted details throughout
• Local Custom Home Builder with 50+ years of experience
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• Options include an extended lanai, outdoor kitchen, and 10’ garage extension for added storage or hobby space.
• Elevated lifestyle experience featuring concierge services, wellness programming and curated social events led by an onsite lifestyle director.
• Crafted by America’s Most Trusted Home Builder®, recognized for exceptional construction quality and innovative design.
• Entertainers Delight: Spacious Kitchen & Private Courtyard or Lanai o er the perfect setting for hosting memorable moments with family & friends
• Tranquil Retreat: Rest and Relaxation meets Convenience & Accessibility in your downstairs Owner’s Suite
• Live Life Your Way: Five thoughtfully designed floorplans featuring flexible living spaces & lofts provides freedom to personalize your home and live your best life in Wellen Park
• Low-maintenance
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• A ordable, and approachable entry point into Wellen Park
• Stylish, functional and supports a variety of lifestyles
• Stainless steel appliances
• Smart home package
• All-concrete block construction on both floors
• Near Wellen Park High School, Downtown Wellen Park and Gulf Coast beaches
• Enjoy welcoming family and guests alike through a stylish Italian arched entryway or open courtyard walkway
• A walk-in pantry and large countertop island is included, and a private powder room for guests is quietly tucked down the hall
• Many flexible options are available for this home, including options for a fourth bedroom, a wine room, expanded utility room, and private access to the lanai from the master bedroom
• Sunny family & dining spaces throughout to the serene lanai
• Heart of the Home Kitchen
• Private owner’s retreat: Large walk-in closet & bath
• Three secondary bedrooms: privacy & space for personal style
• Versatile Sunlit Study: Ideal for home o ce, student library, or welcoming lounge
CALENDAR ofEvents
June 6 | 8am–12pm Join us at Wellen Park for National Trails Day® with a variety of organized walks, group bike rides, and educational walks and talks along the scenic Oakheart Trail. Whether you prefer a guided experience or a go-at-your-own-pace hike, it’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors, connect with others, and experience the beauty of the trail. Hosted in partnership with the American Hiking Society, this annual celebration encourages everyone to get outside and enjoy for the places we love. For the most up-to-date event schedule, visit wellenpark.com/events.
JUNE
Bridal Expo 14
June 14 | 10am-2pm Join us for an unforgettable day of wedding inspiration at the beautiful Solis Hall in Downtown Wellen Park! The event showcases Solis Hall’s 4,400-square foot indoor space and outdoor lakeside views. Meet top local wedding vendors. Explore the latest bridal trends. Enjoy live demos, tastings and exclusive o ers. Get inspired for your big day—all in one place. Whether you’re newly engaged or finalizing the details, this expo is your one-stop destination to bring your dream wedding to life. Solis Hall, 19745 Wellen Park Blvd, for more information, visit wellenpark.com/ events/bridal-expo
Celebrate America Concert
July 4 | 6pm–9pm Celebrate the Fourth of July in Downtown Wellen Park with an evening of live music leading up to the fireworks at CoolToday Park. Bring lawn chairs or blankets, grab food and drinks from Downtown Wellen favorites and enjoy a festive, patriotic atmosphere. Please note: Outside coolers, personal fireworks and sparklers are not permitted. The concert is free. Downtown Wellen Park.
Toddler
Storytime
June 3 and June 17 | 10am Toddler Storytime has become a beloved ongoing series in Wellen Park, bringing families together every other Wednesday beneath the shade of the Heritage Tree. Designed for little ones, each gathering is filled with music, movement and engaging storytelling led by Playdates by Jill. Children delight in singing, dancing and listening to imaginative tales, while parents and caregivers enjoy a warm, welcoming community atmosphere. Under the Heritage Tree in Downtown Wellen Park.
JULY
BUILDING COMMUNITY | ONGOING EVENT PROGRAMS
Wellen Park invites the community to celebrate the summer with a vibrant lineup of events. Come to Downtown Wellen to enjoy a variety of local family-friendly happenings. From live music to fun-filled festivals, there are plenty of ways to participate. Most events are free.
Community Connections
Fresh Harvest Farmers Market—Every Sunday 9am-1pm Join us at the Fresh Harvest Farmers Market where you can shop for fresh fruit, vegetables, plants, seafood, cut flowers and more.
Wellen Park Night Market—Second Thursday of the Month, 6-9pm Enjoy the Wellen Park Night Market, bringing together independent artists and makers specializing in home decor, fashion, art, design, food and more in a fun and inspiring environment that champions community. Dates of the night market are May 14, July 9, August 13, 6-9pm.
Fun Fitness
Get your fitness on with a dynamic lineup of weekly fitness activities for the community. Groups will meet in Downtown Wellen in front of Wellen Park Outfitters. Yoga and Zumba classes meet on the Great Lawn
Walking Group Sat. 9am
Running Group Tues/Thurs. 6pm Sat. 7:30am
Yoga Class Sat. 8am
Cycling Group Sat. 10am Zumba Class Mon/Thurs. 8am
Music and Art
For more details on Wellen Park events, visit: wellenpark.com/events
Enjoy our Summer Series at Wellen Park, featuring a variety of activities for all ages including Venice Theatre classes, line dancing, storytime and music bingo. Join us throughout the season for fun, engaging experiences designed to bring the community together.
First Friday Concert
First Friday of the month, 6–9pm (Solis Hall Stage)
Local Musician Showcase
First Thursday of the month, 6-9pm (Heritage Tree)
Dueling Pianos
Third Thursday of the month, 6-9pm (Solis Hall Stage)
Celebrate America Concert
July 4th, 6-9pm (Solis Hall Stage)
Disco Night
August 28th (Solis Hall) Ticketed event
Daily Live Music Thursday-Saturday: 6-9pm (Heritage Tree)
Wellen Park’s fourth annual Half Marathon and 5K Race, presented by Hotwire Communications, took place on Saturday, March 21. The races kicked off at Solis Hall in Downtown Wellen and featured a new, USA Track & Field-certified 13.1-mile course. Walkers, strollers and well-behaved dogs were welcome to join the event.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY WELLEN PARK.
FAMILY FUN DAY
APRIL 11, 2026
Wellen Park’s Family Fun Day lived up to its name on Saturday, April 11 in Downtown Wellen, with carnival games, live music and a mobile gaming lounge providing entertainment and activities for the whole family.
“This wonderful public celebration is all about community connections and making memories. It brings together families from Wellen Park and across the region,” said Christine Masney, vice president of marketing for Wellen Park. Downtown’s Hammock Lawn along the Grand Lake featured classic carnival games, arts and crafts and a dance party with DJ Jessie. Attendees tested their throwing skills with the Atlanta Braves speed pitch, while a video game truck offered gaming experiences rated E for everyone.
PHOTOGRAPHY
TOGETHER Community Meets Creativity
Three Makers of the Wellen Park Markets
WORDS BY Stephanie Churn Lubow
PHOTOGRAPHY BY WYATT KOSTYGAN | SRQ MEDIA
markets
THE STREETS OF DOWNTOWN WELLEN PARK COME ALIVE on Sunday mornings and the second Thursday evening of the month with the sounds of live music and the buzz of neighbors browsing market stalls filled with fresh produce and handcrafted goods. The Wellen Park Fresh Harvest Farmers Market and Wellen Park Night Market have quickly become gathering spots where residents can shop local, discover new favorites and meet the people behind the products. From artisan foods and baked goods to handmade clothing, art and specialty items, the markets showcase a wide range of talented small businesses from across the region. For many vendors, the markets offer more than just a place to sell—they provide a chance to share their craft and connect directly with customers. These community markets play an important role in supporting entrepreneurs and helping small businesses grow. Shoppers know their purchases support real people, often local families or young creators pursuing a dream. Among the many vendors who set up their tents each week are passionate makers who bring creativity, craftsmanship and heart to everything they sell. Here are three you may spot at the markets.
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Susie and Tony Darlin and their family crafts handmade sourdough. Twenty-three-yearold entrepreneur, Bailey Grossenbacher designs Dubs Swim attire to be bright, vibrant and made for movement. Pictured: Boca Hip Top and the CamoGoogan In-Seam Shorts.
CARLIN’S GARDEN THE ART OF SOURDOUGH
DUBS SWIM DESIGNED FOR ADVENTURE
For Bailey Grossenbacher, swimwear is more than fashion—it’s a reflection of her lifelong love of art, athletics and the beach. The 23-year-old entrepreneur, who grew up in Englewood, launched her brand, Dubs Swim, during her senior year at Florida International University, where she played college softball and studied hospitality management. A class in entrepreneurship sparked the idea. “The professor talked about always chasing your passion and being your authentic self,” Grossenbacher says. “I’ve always loved the beach, and I’ve always loved art, so I thought, why not combine them?”
Grossenbacher began designing bikinis in her dorm room, sketching colorful, playful patterns and selling suits to fellow student athletes around campus. She hand-designs each piece before sending the artwork to a manufacturer in Indonesia to produce the finished suits. Her designs are bright, artistic and built for movement. “I wanted my swimwear to be active,” she explains. “Something you could wear surfing, wakeboarding or even running on the beach.” While completing a master’s degree in marketing, Grossenbacher learned how to build her website and grow her brand. Now an assistant softball coach at Florida Southern College in Lakeland, and recently recruited by The Florida Breeze, a professional fastpitch softball team based in Tampa Bay, Florida, she continues to expand her swimsuit business with new styles, men’s board shorts and branded merchandise. On Sundays, she drives down from Lakeland to set up her booth at the Wellen Park Farmers Market, often with help from her parents. “Sunday at the market has kind of become our family day,” she says. “And every time I come back, the market keeps growing.”
Susie and Tony Carlin’s journey to becoming sourdough bakers started the way it did for many people in 2020—during the pandemic. “I’ve always loved baking and being in the kitchen,” Susie Carlin says, “and I made my own sourdough starter from scratch.” The family business, Carlin’s Garden, originally grew and sold microgreens, but over time Susie’s interest in sourdough led the couple in a new direction. Today, they specialize in handcrafted breads and baked goods made entirely from their starter. At the Wellen Park Farmers Market, customers line up for their freshly baked loaves, cinnamon rolls, chocolate chip cookies and increasingly popular English muffins. Their sourdough crackers—available in flavors like sea salt, parmesan and everything bagel—were the product that first gained a loyal following. Carlin emphasizes the health benefits of traditional sourdough. The dough undergoes a two-day fermentation process that helps break down gluten and develop beneficial probiotics and prebiotics, making it easier to digest than many commercial breads. The Carlins are mindful about quality ingredients, using organic flour, purified water, pure olive oil, sea salt and organic dairy products in their recipes. The response at the Wellen Park Sunday market has been overwhelmingly positive, Carlin says. “We have a lot of regulars and repeat customers. It’s such a beautiful market and such a supportive community.”
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McKenna Crumpton draws inspiration from the stunning beaches of Boca Grande, Florida, featuring high-quality swimwear showcasing tropical prints and vibrant colors including the Postcard from Boca trunks and bikini and The Pink Pony one-piece bathing suits.
NATIVE SWIMWEAR INSPIRED BY THE GULF COAST
VISIT THE MARKETS
For McKenna Crumpton, launching her swimwear brand started with a simple idea—and a lifelong connection to the Florida coast. The 24-year-old grew up in the Boca Grande and Englewood area, spending her childhood on the water and at the beach. “I’ve always dreamed of having my own bathing suit company,” she says. While working in her chosen field of radiologic technology, Crumpton would sketch swimsuit ideas during breaks between x-ray cases in the operating room. “I somehow knew I’d figure out the rest eventually,” she says. Now, she only works part-time so she can focus on her swimsuit business and raise her young son. She designs each piece herself—from the colors and textures to the signature hardware details—before sending the designs to a manufacturing partner in Brazil that produces the suits using high-quality fabrics.
Many of the collections are inspired by her hometown. Some designs are even named after beloved Boca Grande landmarks, including the Pink Pony ice cream shop and the Bella Vida café. Native Swimwear has received strong support from local boutiques and the community, and Crumpton says the Wellen Park Night Market has been a great place to connect with new customers. “People really love supporting small businesses,” she says. “Shopping local instead of just buying online makes a big difference.” She’s now expanding the line to include children’s style, making family-matching beachwear a future possibility.
Residents and visitors can experience the Wellen Park markets throughout the year in downtown Wellen Park at 19745 Wellen Park Blvd.
Wellen Park Fresh Harvest Farmers Market Sundays, 9 am–1 pm
Wellen Park Night Market
Second Thursday of each month, 6–9 pm
Both markets feature a variety of vendors offering farm-fresh foods, artisan baked goods, handmade crafts, clothing, art and specialty items.
Wellen Park Outfitters is the one-stop shop for those looking to explore the natural wonders of Wellen Park. 19755 Wellen Park Blvd #5, Venice, Fl.
AdventureBegins
At Wellen Park Outfitters, members of the community have all they need to enjoy the great outdoors. WORDS BY
ADVENTURE STARTS AT WELLEN PARK OUTFITTERS. The equipment outfitter on the bank of Wellen Park’s 80-acre Grand Lake is the gateway to the natural wonders that lie in the community. The intention behind the Wellen Park Outfitters, which offers kayak, paddleboard and pedal boat rentals, E-Bike rentals and fishing poles/supplies, is simple: to make it easy for residents and visitors alike to experience the outdoors.
DYLAN CAMPBELL
outdoors
A PART OF THE SCENIC GRAND LAKE TRAIL, Wellen Park Outfitters is the onestop shop for all that the adventurous person might need. It’s no secret that the best memories are often made outside, exploring nature and enjoying quality time with loved ones. With a complimentary first half-hour on all rentals, Wellen Park Outfitters is an entryway to try something new—be it fishing, cruising along on an E-Bike or paddling through the water.
“We want people to have fun,” says Rick Severance, president of Wellen Park. “Wellen Park is about joy and this is just another layer of how we’re trying to establish joy as a part of the overall community, whether you live here or are coming to visit. It’s been wonderful to see
parents and grandparents bringing their children down to go fishing, hopping on a pedal boat or riding on the surrey (fourwheeled quadricycle) together.”
ON THE WATER
One of the best ways to enjoy Wellen Park’s Grand Lake is, well, to be in it. For folks looking for a seated, speedy experience, look to the kayak rentals, which come in single and double kayaks. Kayaking is at its heart a calming experience, in which the paddler can sit atop the water, the cool surface of the Grand Lake slipping underneath the craft as it glides along.
Paddleboarding is another fantastic way to enjoy the lake. A low-impact activity, paddleboarding may look intimidat-
The shop offers virtually every way to enjoy the outdoors from kayak and paddleboard rentals to fishing poles/supplies.
ing, but it actually has an incredibly easy point of entry. With the option to kneel or stand, paddleboarding is a great way to build core strength without the strain of rigorous exercise. For families and small groups, pedal boats are the go-to choice. Each one holds up to four people, making it perfect for families with young children that might not quite be ready for a kayak or paddleboard. If your youngster gets tuckered out halfway through the trip, don’t fret, as mom and dad can always pick up the slack.
ON THE LAND
The Wellen Park nature trail network is vast, winding its way from downtown through the various communities. Wellen Park Outfitters’ bicycle and E-bike rentals are the perfect way to explore the scenic network. For those wanting to pedal themselves, a conventional bike works just fine—the surrey, or four-wheeled quadricycle—has also been a popular choice. E-bikes, however, provide an easier point of entry, allowing for riders (especially older or differently-abled riders) to enjoy the outdoors and feel the wind on their faces while zipping along. As Wellen Park Outfitters becomes more stabilized, the shop looks forward to offering more E-bike repairs and services. “We want to make Wellen Park Outfitters as much of an amenity for the community as a whole and for the people visiting,” says Severance.
CAST A LINE
At Wellen Park, the fish are always biting. With rods for rental and bait and tackle available for purchase—and free fishing for children under 16—Wellen Park Outfitters ensures that anglers have everything that they need for a day out on the water. The Landing Fishing Pier, replete with a shaded structure and a dock that extends out into Grand Lake, makes for the prime fishing spot. The Grand Lake itself, at 80 acres of total area and averaging around 30 feet of depth, is well stocked with a variety of fish. Largemouth bass, channel catfish, redear sunfish, bluegill and threadfin shad are some of the species that populate the lake, making sure that for the angler, the next bite is just around the corner. WPL
BELOW
HouseParty
The 2026 Parade of Homes highlighted the quality and variety of homes offered across Wellen Park. WORDS BY BARBIE HEIT
LUCKY VISITORS TO WELLEN PARK THIS SPRING WERE TREATED TO A SNEAK PEEK AT THEIR FUTURE DREAM HOMES, when the community showcased 23 fully furnished model homes as part of the Suncoast Builders Association Annual Parade of Homes event. From state-of-the-art condos and villas to custom luxury estates, visitors were invited to explore the latest in design, innovation and lifestyle living throughout Wellen Park’s diverse neighborhoods and enter for a chance to win a “Tuscan Wine Country” getaway to Napa Valley during the tours.
THIS YEAR’S PARADE OF HOMES revolved around the theme, “La Dolce Vita: The Sweet Life in Every Build,” highlighting the joy, comfort and beauty inherent in meticulously designed residences. Every model home showcased a lifestyle to be cherished, featuring everything from inspired architecture to refined interior design. The event provided broad appeal, serving as a valuable resource for active home shoppers, those seeking design ideas and anyone interested in the
latest trends. More than just an exhibit of beautiful homes, the Parade of Homes event invites visitors to imagine the life within them: quiet mornings on the lanai, cozy evenings with loved ones and memorable family gatherings.
The Parade of Homes celebrated the creativity of the builders, showcasing the work of architects, design specialists and visionaries, not solely focusing on award recipients. The showcased homes demonstrated how builders are
adapting to modern lifestyles, featuring flexible spaces, outdoor entertaining areas, wellness-inspired bathrooms and abundant natural light in living areas. Visitors had the opportunity to interact with designers at the event, who provided detailed descriptions and answered questions about various features, spaces and design elements. Highlights included kitchen design, indoor/outdoor living concepts, storage solutions and lighting.
The Warrina, an award-winner by John Cannon Homes.
planning
THE ENVELOPE PLEASE
While the event was a win for anyone looking for or showcasing new homes and communities, there were definitely some standouts worthy of recognition. Wellen Park, the eighth top-selling master-planned community in the country, was named the best overall development in Sarasota and Manatee counties. Brightmore, the 55+ neighborhood within Wellen Park was named best overall community, and 11 model homes earned best overall honors in their price ranges. In all, the Parade of Homes awards recognized 11 model homes in Wellen Park and 10 builders for design excellence in an array of categories, including best architectural detailing, curb appeal, floor plan, kitchen, master suite and pool design. National homebuilder Lennar was the community’s top winner, receiving 14 awards for its single-family and multifamily model homes in Wellen Park Golf & Country Club, a golf neighborhood with resort-style amenities. Mattamy Homes also earned 12 awards for its models in Palmera and Lakespur, in addition to best overall community for Brightmore, and Best Overall Multifamily Home for their Acacia model in Palmera. “The Parade of Homes highlights the quality and variety of homes o ered across Wellen Park,” said Christine Masney, vice president of marketing for Wellen Park. “This recognition reflects the strength of our builders and our continued focus on creating a community where thoughtful design, amenities and everyday livability come together in a meaningful way.” WPL
BELOW
Clockwise: Acacia by Mattamy Homes, Cove Prairie by Toll Brothers and Heritage by Neal Communities.
TOP HONORS AWARDED
BEST OVERALL
Development: Wellen Park
Community: Brightmore by Mattamy Homes
Multi-Family Home: Acacia by Mattamy Homes at Wellen Park
SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES
OVERALL AWARD WINNERS
Dream 2 by Neal Communities
Cove Prairie by Toll Brothers
Outrigger by Homes by Towne
Ravenna by Neal Signature Homes
Caravel by Lee Wetherington Homes
Costa Mesa by ICI Homes
The Warrina by John Cannon Homes
SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES
OVERALL AWARD WINNERS
Arrowhead by Lennar
Arbor by Lennar
Delmar II by Mattamy Homes
Acacia by Mattamy Homes
BEST POOL
Caravel by Lee Wetherington Homes
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Louie’s Bistro–the Wellen Park cafe where everyone knows your name–serves up delicious food and great community.
Hospitality and Home
IN WELLEN PARK, JENNIFER AND COREY POPE have found both a home and a business that deepen their connection to the community. As the owners of Louie’s Bistro, the couple has created a gathering place for Wellen Park residents centered around hospitality and delicious meals. Drawing on decades of restaurant experience, the Popes have cultivated a welcoming, home-style cafe that feels as comfortable to first-time visitors as it does to regulars. Originally from Kentucky, the Popes later spent more than 20 years in West Virginia, where they raised their three children. Their eventual move south was shaped by both family ties and long-term planning. After years of visiting relatives in the Sarasota area, they made the decision to relocate permanently eight years ago. “When we had the opportunity to move, and we were wondering where we wanted to be, I thought that if we were going to do anything new business-wise, let’s go where we later want to retire,” says Jennifer.
Jennifer and Corey Pope play a unique role in the Wellen Park community. WORDS BY CECILIA MOULD
THE POPES’ VISION FOR LIFE IN FLORIDA FIRST TOOK SHAPE WITH THEIR ORIGINAL CAFE, Venice Island Coffee, but it was an unexpected opportunity that brought the couple to Wellen Park. An opportunity for partnership with the community’s Welcome Center led the Popes to open Louie’s Bistro nearly four years ago. The couple aimed to blend their Kentucky roots with the diverse tastes of local clientele. “Our main focus is to serve home-style meals that are inspired by dishes from Kentucky and West Virginia,” Corey says. “But we also want to make our food attractive to everyone. Florida is a melting pot, so we aim to offer a variety of dishes.”
Attention to detail and consistency are central to the Popes’ approach—Corey emphasizes that even simple dishes require care and technique. Named
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The Popes, pictured here with their dog Benedict, aka Benny, serve home-style meals inspired by dishes from Kentucky and West Virginia at Louie’s Bistro.
after Jennifer’s father, a firehouse cook who helped inspire her love of food and cooking, the bistro features classic comfort dishes like biscuits and gravy, eggs and pan-fried potatoes, alongside more contemporary offerings like flatbreads, quiche, salads and sandwiches. That blend of familiarity and variety has helped the bistro appeal to people across the Wellen Park community, from those seeking traditional Southern flavors to those looking for lighter fare.
Beyond the menu, it is the atmosphere that defines Louie’s Bistro. As both business owners and residents of Downtown Wellen Park, the Popes have become deeply embedded in the community they serve. The cafe has grown into a social hub where regulars are greeted personally and relationships with customers are a cornerstone of
the business. “Everybody knows everybody’s name. We know our customers, they know us,” says Corey. “We often walk out of our home and see somebody that we know from the restaurant. The relationships are everything to us.”
That sense of connection extends beyond the bistro itself—the Popes have convinced family members and employees to move to the Wellen Park community because of their love for the area. The couple can often be found enjoying Wellen Park’s many traditions, including Friday night concerts, the farmer’s market and nearby spring training games at CoolToday Park. “There are so many things to do. It’s all in our backyard, and we’ve really gotten to know our neighbors through these events,” says Corey. WPL
IMAGE (LEFT) COURTESY OF THE POPES. PHOTO RIGHT BY WYATT KOSTYGAN | SRQ MEDIA
neighborhoods
THIS PAGE Esplanade at Wellen Park will offer a variety of models designed to fit the resort-lifestyle mindset.
Esplanade
The Esplanade community in Wellen Park will bring a renewed focus on wellbeing.
WORDS BY CECILIA MOULD
IN THE UPCOMING ESPLANADE NEIGHBORHOOD, WELLNESS IS A TOP PRIORITY— every home and amenity is designed with intention. With community spaces focused on recreation and social engagement, the community offers an exciting new opportunity in Wellen Park. “Within the larger Wellen Park master plan, Esplanade at Wellen Park offers a unique resort lifestyle experience through extensive amenities, wellness programs and concierge services such as dry cleaning, car detailing and exclusive travel opportunities,” says Cammie Longenecker, president of Resort Lifestyle Brand. “Our Esplanade communities are centered around holistic wellness for the mind, body and spirit.” Esplanade will offer numerous planned amenities, including a resort-style pool and spa, the Bahama Bar & Grill, tennis, pickleball and bocce ball courts and a dog park. A fitness center will also host an on-site lifestyle manager, who will coordinate lifestyle events and activities that bring residents together. “The amenities offered at each Esplanade community are intentionally curated to create vibrant, elevated communities where meaningful connections thrive and every day feels like a vacation,” says Longenecker.
IMAGE COURTESY OF WELLEN PARK.
neighborhoods
THE RESORT CLUB, A 16,000 SQUAREFOOT AMENITY CENTER, will feature state of the art fitness equipment, group fitness rooms, a spa therapy suite, lockers and private spaces. The Club will also include outdoor spaces geared toward relaxation, including a zeroentry pool, an outdoor kitchen area and grill and a sand beach with a lush tropical landscape, shaded lounge chairs and covered cabanas.
Ideal for residents of all ages, the community will offer 14 one- and two-story floor plans for homebuyers to choose from, ranging between 1,515 and 3,745 square feet. Floor plans also span options with 2-4 bedrooms, 2-3.5 baths
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With comfortable home layouts, a resort-style pool and spa and the Bahama Bar & Grill, Esplanade residents will never want to wander far from their community.
and 2-3-car garages, depending on what homebuyers are looking for. “Across our Esplanade communities, we believe in being ‘experience-targeted’ rather than ‘age-targeted’ and we’re seeing a growing, cross-generational desire for the purposeful, longevity-focused lifestyle Esplanade offers,” says Longenecker. With something for every lifestyle, the collection of homes offers luxury features and designs, as well as options for enhanced indoor-outdoor living. Beyond the numerous opportunities for recreation within the Esplanade community, the neighborhood also borders the Myakka State Forest, a protected expanse of over 8,500 acres featuring lush
woodlands, freshwater wetlands and native wildlife. The park offers more than 30 miles of trails, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing and nature observation close to home.
Longnecker notes that Wellen Park is a natural fit for Esplanade’s signature resort-style community, hoping to enhance Wellen Park’s already-strong focus on wellness and recreation. “Within the Wellen Park master plan itself, there’s so much for residents to enjoy like the Atlanta Braves practice stadium and downtown Wellen Park, which features restaurants, shops and entertainment,” she says. WPL Visit wellenpark.com for more details.
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Residents of Ashcombe can enjoy the convenience of a townhome lifestyle while being part of the award-winning Wellen Park community.
Ashcombe
The Ashcombe neighborhood brings increased townhome options to Wellen Park. WORDS BY
D.R. HORTON’S NEWEST WELLEN PARK NEIGHBORHOOD, ASHCOMBE, offers townhomes for residents looking for the Wellen Park lifestyle combined with low-maintenance convenience. Each townhome is thoughtfully designed and provides options for smaller families and couples, while still allowing residents to enjoy the community’s amenities and events. Amanda May, vice president of Sales and Marketing for D.R. Horton says that the home builder selected Wellen Park because of its thoughtful planning and rapid growth. “Wellen Park’s master-planned design, strong sense of community and continued investment in amenities make it an attractive location for homebuyers seeking both lifestyle and convenience,” she notes. The area’s unique combination of residential neighborhoods, outdoor recreation, dining, entertainment and proximity to the beach contributed to D.R. Horton’s decision to build in the community. The neighborhood also offers a convenient proximity to the new Wellen Park High School, perfect for families looking to be part of the community. Designed to appeal to a wide range of homebuyers, Ashcombe offers options that can fit anyone from first-time homebuyers to families or seasonal residents. The aim of the development, May says, is to provide a new pathway for homebuyers to enjoy a growing list of community lifestyle amenities, events and recreational opportunities. Each townhome includes two stories with three bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms and features a modern, open-concept floor plan designed for both everyday living and entertaining.
CECILIA MOULD
neighborhoods
SPACIOUS LIVING AREAS, carefully designed primary suites and attached garages make the homes an exciting new option for those looking to buy in Wellen Park. “The homes are built with quality construction, such as all-concrete-block on both the first and second floors, and attention to detail that homebuyers expect from D.R. Horton, along with finishes and features that reflect today’s homebuyer preferences,” says May. Beyond the townhomes, the neighborhood includes a number of amenities, featuring a community pool and clubhouse for relaxation and community gatherings. The community is conveniently located near Oak Heart Trail. “Ashcombe represents an exciting addition to the continued growth of Wellen Park,” says May. “Homebuyers will have the opportunity to enjoy the convenience of a townhome lifestyle while being part of a larger community known for its walkable areas, dining, entertainment and outdoor recreation. As the area continues to evolve, Ashcombe homeowners will be well positioned to enjoy everything Wellen Park has to offer today and in the future.” WPL Visit wellenpark.com for more details.
FAMLY FUN DAY
The annual Family Fun Day event featured a sunny spring day jam-packed with family-friendly activities in Downtown Wellen.
