Things To Do
Downtown Winter Park
Charming, walkable, and full of local flavor, Downtown Winter Park is a beloved Central Florida gem centered around the lively Park Avenue corridor — and the very place where we had our first date at AJ's Chocolate House and Rome's Flavors. You'll find boutique shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and cozy cafes, all within easy strolling distance. It's the perfect spot for a laid-back afternoon soaking up small-town Florida charm just minutes from Orlando.
Bok Tower Gardens
Perched atop one of Florida's highest hills, Bok Tower Gardens is a breathtaking National Historic Landmark filled with lush gardens, winding pathways, and a stunning 205-foot Gothic-Art Deco singing tower. The carillon bells chime every half hour, creating a truly magical and peaceful atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the state. Whether you're a nature lover or simply looking for a serene escape, this hidden gem in Lake Wales is absolutely worth the visit.
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
Once the winter home of circus magnate John Ringling, this magnificent Sarasota estate is now one of Florida's premier cultural destinations. The museum houses an extraordinary collection of European paintings, sculptures, and traveling exhibitions set against a stunning Venetian Gothic palazzo. Stroll the bayfront grounds, explore the historic Ca' d'Zan mansion, and soak in a world-class art experience with a uniquely Florida backdrop.
Lightner Museum
Housed in the magnificent former Alcazar Hotel — built by railroad tycoon Henry Flagler in 1888 — the Lightner Museum is one of St. Augustine's most awe-inspiring landmarks. Its grand halls are filled with Victorian-era antiques, fine art, and curiosities that transport you back to the Gilded Age. A visit here pairs perfectly with an afternoon wandering the cobblestone streets of the nation's oldest city.
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
Built in 1916 as the winter retreat of industrialist James Deering, Vizcaya is a jaw-dropping Italian Renaissance-style villa nestled along the shores of Biscayne Bay in Miami. The estate's 34 decorated rooms and meticulously manicured formal gardens feel more European palazzo than South Florida — making it one of the most photographed spots in the state. It's a romantic, one-of-a-kind experience that's especially magical during golden hour.
Downtown Winter Garden
If you haven't been to Downtown Winter Garden, you're in for a treat! This walkable Central Florida gem is anchored by the lively Plant Street corridor, where you'll find boutique shops, farm-to-table restaurants, a weekend farmers market, and the historic Garden Theatre all within easy reach. It's small-town Florida charm at its finest — just minutes from Orlando.