Welcome to Winter Garden, a charming little city in Central Florida that artfully blends history, culture, outdoor adventures, and delectable cuisine. Ready for an exciting journey through this enchanting city and discover what is Winter Garden known for? Let’s embark!
Explore historic downtown Winter Garden’s old-time charm and modern amenities
Enjoy the year round offerings of the Winter Garden Farmers Market
Embrace outdoor adventures, craft beer, retail therapy and artistic expressions in this captivating city.
When you enter downtown Winter Garden, it’s like walking into a captivating fusion of past and present. The historic downtown, a former citrus town, exudes an old-time charm with its beautifully restored buildings that house trendy shops and eateries. You’ll find yourself lost in time as you stroll down Plant Street, which is lined with an array of restaurants, boutiques, and galleries.
Winding through downtown, the West Orange Trail, a standout feature of Winter Garden in West Orange County, beckons locals and tourists alike to immerse themselves in the city, either on foot or by bike. As you move along the trail, don’t miss a locally-roasted cup of joe at Axum Coffee, a beloved local haunt.
However, downtown Winter Garden’s allure extends beyond its streets. Look beyond, and you’ll find the Downtown Interactive Fountain, with its playful jets and tropical landscaping, offering a refreshing retreat on a hot Florida day.
Each Saturday, Winter Garden’s core buzzes with the lively Winter Garden Farmers Market. This weekly event is a feast for the senses, with farmers and artisans coming together to display their fresh produce and handmade products. The bustling market, set against the backdrop of a citrus packing house replica, is a testament to Winter Garden’s agricultural heritage.
From fresh fruits and vegetables to artisanal baked goods, the Winter Garden Farmers Market has something for everyone. If you’re hunting for aromatic flowers for your dwelling or eager to savor scrumptious local cuisine, this market caters to your needs. And the best part? It’s a year-round affair, welcoming visitors every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m..
The Winter Garden Farmers Market is more than just a place to buy groceries; it’s a community gathering spot. With its dog-friendly atmosphere and diverse array of vendors, the market is a place where locals and tourists can connect, making it a must-visit destination in Winter Garden.
A leisurely walk through Winter Garden Florida reveals the resounding echoes of its profound agricultural past. Once the heart of Florida’s citrus industry, the city’s heritage is beautifully preserved at the Winter Garden Heritage Museum.
The museum, housed in a historic building, is a treasure trove of artifacts that tell the story of Winter Garden’s agricultural past. From old-time tools to items from local businesses, the museum is a testament to the city’s citrus industry. Not to be missed is the display of farm equipment outside the museum, a nod to the city’s citrus-farming roots.
But the museum isn’t the only place where you can delve into Winter Garden’s citrus history. The Withers-Maguire House, one of Orange County’s first residences with modern amenities, belonged to individuals involved in the citrus industry. A visit to this historic house museum adds another layer to the city’s rich agricultural tale.
Moving on from its agricultural past, Winter Garden boasts a flourishing arts scene. At the heart of the city’s cultural life is the Garden Theatre, a beautifully restored venue that once served as a single-screen cinema.
The theatre, with its charming Mediterranean Revival style, creates an enchanting ambience reminiscent of a Spanish courtyard in a charming little city. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by ‘Romeo and Juliet’ balconies, a dark blue ceiling adorned with stars, and red-tiled roofs, setting the stage for a memorable cultural experience.
Be it Broadway shows or live comedy, there’s something for all tastes at the Garden Theatre. The theatre’s diverse offerings include:
Broadway shows
Live comedy
Concerts
Dance performances
Films
These offerings are a testament to its commitment to fostering the performing arts.
Beyond its rich history and culture, Winter Garden also serves as a sanctuary for lovers of the outdoors. The city’s West Orange Trail, a 20.8-mile paved trail, is perfect for biking, hiking, and rollerblading. And with the planned Coast to Coast Connector Trail, Winter Garden is poised to offer even more outdoor adventure opportunities.
But the city’s outdoor offerings aren’t limited to trails. Lake Apopka, one of Florida’s largest lakes, is a paradise for nature lovers. On the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive, you can spot various bird species, alligators, and turtles. And for a stunning sunset, head to Newton Park.
If water sports are more your style, Tucker Ranch is the place to be. This recreational area offers a kayak/canoe launch, picnic areas, and a nature trail. And with bicycle rentals readily available, you can fully embrace the great outdoors of Winter Garden.
Once you’ve quenched your thirst for exploration, relax with a revitalizing craft beer at the acclaimed Crooked Can Brewing Company. Located within the bustling Plant Street Market, this brewery is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts.
The Plant Street Market extends beyond merely housing the brewery. Open seven days a week, this community hub offers a diverse range of eats, handmade products, and a relaxing atmosphere with live music on the patio.
But let’s not forget the beer. The Crooked Can Brewing Company boasts a diverse selection of brews, from core brands like an IPA and the award-winning Florida Sunshine Lager to small-batch and seasonal offerings. And if you’re hungry, there’s a wide range of food options to pair with your beer, all set in a lively atmosphere complete with live music and a pet-friendly outdoor patio.
Leaving the brewery behind, the next stop is another Winter Garden hotspot: the Winter Garden Village. This open-air mall, located near Plant Street Winter Garden, with its range of national retailers and smaller shops, is the perfect destination for retail therapy.
Whether your hunt is for a chic outfit or home essentials, Winter Garden Village is your go-to destination. With national retailers like Target, Marshalls, and Best Buy, you’re sure to find just what you need.
But shopping isn’t the only thing on offer at Winter Garden Village. The mall also has a variety of dining options, from fast-casual eateries like Five Guys and Panera Bread to sit-down restaurants like Bonefish Grill. So whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Winter Garden Village has you covered.
Switching gears from retail and food, we journey back in time to delve into Winter Garden’s rail history at the Central Florida Railroad Museum. This museum, dedicated to the region’s railway history, is a fascinating place to learn about:
The construction of the railroads in Central Florida
The impact of railroads on the local economy
The role of railroads in transporting goods and people
The decline of railroads in the region
Visiting the Central Florida Railroad Museum is a great way to explore the rich history of railroads in Central Florida.
Inside the museum, you’ll find a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and vintage equipment that paint a vivid picture of the region’s railway past. Highlights include the display of dining car china and a model railroad that’s sure to delight both young and old.
But the museum isn’t just about the past; it’s also about inspiring future generations. With its interactive Thomas the Tank Engine layout, the Central Florida Railroad Museum is a place where kids can learn about the region’s railway history in a fun and engaging way.
Transitioning from history, we re-immerse ourselves in the arts with a stop at the SOBO Art Gallery. Housed in a historic fire station, this gallery is a hub of creativity in Winter Garden.
Managed by the Winter Garden Arts Association, the SOBO Art Gallery is committed to fostering personal creativity and artistic prowess. Whether you’re an art lover or an artist yourself, you’ll find inspiration in this vibrant community of creators.
The gallery, which is set to reopen on April 7th, offers a diverse array of art exhibits, classes, and workshops. So whether you’re interested in viewing art or creating it, the SOBO Art Gallery has something for everyone.
From its historic downtown and vibrant farmers market to its rich agricultural heritage, thriving arts scene, and exciting outdoor adventures, Winter Garden is a city that has it all. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, a foodie, or an art enthusiast, you’re sure to find something that appeals to you in this charming little city. So why wait? Pack your bags and come explore Winter Garden – a city where history, culture, and nature beautifully collide.
Downtown Winter Garden is a beautiful mix of past and present, with its stunning buildings home to a range of fashionable stores and restaurants. It's a truly special destination!
407-575-5392
Wendy Morris LLC
DBA Wendy Morris Realty
Licensed in the State of Florida
BK 3146762
16797 Broadwater Avenue
Winter Garden, Florida 34787
