Orlando North Seminole County
WELCOME TO ORLANDO
CONTENTS 6
FIRST LOOK With all there is to do, it’s no wonder that Orlando is the country’s most visited destination.
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WORLD OF WONDER Explore Wekiwa Springs State Park. PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBERTO GONZALEZ
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STREET EATS AROUND THE WORLD Discover Orlando’s diverse dining scene. BY BROOKE FEHR
PRIDE OF PLACE Orlando’s professional soccer teams are taking the city by storm. BY PETER KERASOTIS
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HAPPY 50TH, DISNEY! Walt Disney World celebrates a milestone anniversary in a myriad of ways. BY BROOKE FEHR
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Q&A: JAMAHL MOSLEY We chat with the Orlando Magic’s new head coach. BY PETER KERASOTIS
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ALL ABOUT TOWN Explore neighborhoods, parks, scenic enclaves and trendy communities.
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WINTER PARK Learn about Florida’s past and savor the charm of “Little Europe.”
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ORLANDO NORTH Orlando North, Seminole County boasts historic areas, scenic waterways, a robust culinary scene and more.
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ORLANDO GUIDE The best attractions, shopping and dining that Orlando has to offer.
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PARTING SHOT A final dose of Disney magic.
ON THE COVER: STROLL ALONG THE BOARDWALK AT LAKE LOTUS PARK (PHOTO COURTESY ORLANDO NORTH SEMINOLE COUNTY) INSIDE COVER: FIREWORKS LIGHT UP THE NIGHT SKY (©JONGONZALEZPHOTO/ SHUTTERSTOCK)
(CLOCKWISE FROM TOP): COURTESY WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT; COURTESY ORLANDO CITY SC; ©ROBERTO GONZALEZ
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VOTED BEST PLACE FOR BUSINESS, BEST SEAFOOD AND BEST OLD FAVORITE!
Big Fin is locally owned and operated, a Florida Gem! Refined and casual, this upscale 11,000 sq. ft. award-winning restaurant offers the best and freshest Seafood, Steaks, Sushi & Raw Bar. Excellent outdoor bar and happy hour and the favorite location for business groups looking for a memorable experience. Sunday - Thursday, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Friday & Saturday, 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
DELLAGIO TOWN CENTRE 8046 Via Dellagio Way Orlando, FL 32819 407-615-8888 | BigFinSeafood.com
ORLANDO G UE S T B O OK
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ADVERTISING PUBLISHER Catherine Walters ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Kristin Merrick SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER Rosemary Bowers
EDITORIAL & DESIGN GROUP EDITOR Brooke Fehr ART DIRECTOR Hadley Kincaid CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Peter Kerasotis, Patricia Letakis CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER Roberto Gonzalez
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CONTRIBUTORS
Brooke Fehr
Street Eats Around the World, Page 20 Happy 50th Anniversary, Walt Disney World!, Page 30
As group editor for Where publications in Florida, one of Brooke’s greatest passions is travel, and she frequently hits the road with her husband and two children to explore. While weekends are often spent discovering day destinations in all corners of the Sunshine State, she loves to travel further afield whenever possible. When she’s not checking out the latest local hot spots and hidden gems, you’re likely to find her in front of her laptop, coffee in hand, writing to her heart’s content.
Roberto Gonzalez
World of Wonder, Page 12
Roberto Gonzalez has been a professional photographer in Central Florida since 1990. During his 20 year tenure as a staff photojournalist for The Orlando Sentinel, he documented the region’s stories as they unfolded, and his pictures depicted Central Florida’s biggest events and most intimate moments. At that time he got to know Orlando, Central Florida and the people who impact the area as only a resident can. He has been Photo Editor of Orlando magazine since 2013, using his regional knowledge and long list of local contacts to document the area in a unique and personal way. Gonzalez has received numerous awards throughout his career for his work, including several awards by the Florida Magazine Association for his contributions to Orlando magazine and Where Orlando GuestBook.
Peter Kerasotis
Pride of Place, Page 26 Q&A: Jamahl Mosley, Page 32
Peter Kerasotis is an author and multiple award-winning journalist. His work has appeared in The New York Times, USA Today, the Dallas Morning News, the Orlando Sentinel, and numerous other publications. He is also a regular contributor for Orlando magazine, with whom he has won several Charlie Awards, awarded by the Florida Magazine Association for outstanding writing. A University of Florida graduate and the author of five books, Peter lives with his wife Shelley and their beloved Beagle mix dog Benny in their hometown of Merritt Island.
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FIRST LOOK
COURTESY SEAWORLD ORLANDO
From thrilling theme parks and historic landmarks to world class shopping, Orlando’s unique attractions make The City Beautiful a universal favorite among travelers.
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SeaWorld Parks
Encounter animals and more at SeaWorld Parks. SeaWorld’s allinclusive day resort, Discovery Cove, affords interactive activity in a relaxing, tropical-themed haven. For an extra dose of serenity, be sure to reserve your own private cabana as you swim with dolphins, make friends with birds and learn more about the world around us. At SeaWorld, visit with Cookie Monster and friends at Sesame Street and ride thrilling coasters. Or visit Aquatica for a fun day of exciting water slides, including the KareKare Curl and Riptide Race, new in 2021. 7007 SeaWorld Drive, 888.800.5447. seaworld.com/orlando WHERET RAV EL ER ® G UEST B OOK
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FIRST LOOK Universal Orlando
Walt Disney World
The magic is alive and well at Walt Disney World. As the resort celebrates 50 enchanting years, visit Magic Kingdom to be transported to different lands full of adventure, fantasy and fun. At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, venture to Pandora for unforgettable thrills. At Galaxy’s Edge in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, walk in the footsteps of your favorite Star Wars characters. And at EPCOT, explore the globe, one country at a time, in World Showcase. Lake Buena Vista, 407.824.4321, www.disney.com
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(FROM TOP) COURTESY UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT; COURTESY WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT
Excitement awaits at Universal Orlando Resort. Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure and Diagon Alley at Universal Studios continue to draw muggles and wizards alike. The recently added Bourne Stuntacular will leave you breathless as you follow Jason Bourne on an epic adventure across continents. Volcano Bay, the resort’s third theme park, offers visitors daring water slides and plenty of ways to cool off. CityWalk satisfies shopping, dining and entertainment needs. 1000 Universal Studios Plaza, 407.363.8000. universalorlando.com
FIRST LOOK
(CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) COURTESY KEENEDY SPACE CENTER; COURTESY ICON PARK; ©ROBERTO GONZALEZ
Kennedy Space Center
One of our nation’s most iconic attractions, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex tells the story of the U.S. space program. The complex is organized into zones, offering guests a way to explore the progress of the program chronologically. Visitors can stand nose-to-nose with the real Space Shuttle Atlantis, see the actual Saturn V moon rocket and witness an awe-inspiring rocket launch in person. kennedyspacecenter.com
Downtown Orlando
Beyond the fireworks and frenzy of the theme parks lies the heart and soul of Orlando. There’s much to discover. Visit the trendy cafes and boutiques along Thornton Park’s brick lined streets. Take in a show at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Paddle a swan boat around Lake Eola. Learn about Central Florida’s roots at the Orange County Regional History Center. Cheer on our MLS teams, the Orlando City Soccer Club and the Orlando Pride. downtownorlando.com
International Drive
Ride on a 400-foot observation wheel and see a dinner show. Play golf in a climate-controlled bay and fly high on thrill rides. Soar over the area via helicopter and make your own chocolate bar. Experience these and other memorable adventures on International Drive, the heart of Orlando’s tourist corridor. The 11-mile stretch is home to hundreds of hotels, restaurants and attractions, including both SeaWorld Orlando and Universal Orlando Resort. Many of the venues in the area offer free parking. internationaldriveorlando.com WHERET RAV EL ER ® G UEST B OOK
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FIRST LOOK
The Mall at Millenia
With more than 130 upscale stores and dining options, this luxury mall features anchor stores Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s and Neiman Marcus. High-end specialty shops not to miss are Anthropologie, Banana Republic, Chanel, Christian Louboutin, Gucci, Guess, Lacoste, Louis Vuitton, Sephora, Tiffany & Co., Tory Burch and Urban Outfitters. 4200 Conroy Rd., Orlando, 407.363.3555. mallatmillenia.com
This National Historic Landmark sits on peninsular Florida’s highest point and features Olmsted designed landscaped gardens crowned with a majestic bell tower that plays music by the hour. A lovely children’s garden with play area is also located on site. 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales, 863.676.1408. boktowergardens.org
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(FROM TOP): COURTESY MALL AT MILLENIA; ; ©DAVID PRICE
Bok Tower Gardens
COURTESY LEGOLAND FLORIDA
FIRST LOOK
LEGOLAND
This 150-acre theme park offers more than 50 rides, shows and hands-on attractions geared for families with children ages 2-12. A new Legoland Resort is also located on site, complete with a water park. In 2022, the park welcomes the brand new Peppa Pig Theme Park to the mix. Check the resort’s website for a full calendar of special events throughout the year. 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven. legoland.com WHERET RAV EL ER ® G UEST B OOK
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PHOTO CREDIT GOTHAM BOOK 5.5/9PT
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WORLD OF WONDER Immerse yourself in the magical world of Wekiwa Springs State Park, one of Central Florida’s unspoiled treasures. Cruise the glassy waters via kayak or survey the depths with a snorkel. The park’s scenic trails reveal hawks, deer, turtles, alligators and other native inhabitants. Come and explore.
PHOTO CREDIT GOTHAM BOOK 5.5/9PT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBERTO GONZALEZ
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STREET EATS AROUND THE WORLD Orlando’s culinary scene is an affordable melting pot of flavors. BY BROOKE FEHR 20
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(OPPOSITE PAGE): ©ROBERTO GONZALEZ (2); (THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT): COURTESY COOKES OF DUBLIN (2); ©ROBERTO GONZALEZ
Left, from left: Hunger Street Tacos; Mamak Asian Street Food. Above, clockwise from top left: Cookes of Dublin Battered Burger and Fish & Chips; Hunger Street’s patio at their Winter Park location.
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ou may think that Orlando’s food scene is dominated by chains, but a closer look shows a surprising amount of diversity. And while splurging on a special meal is fun, eating well doesn’t always require you to spend a fortune. From inexpensive meals to spots celebrating the world’s bounty of street food, it’s all waiting for you in The City Beautiful. COOKES OF DUBLIN At Disney Springs, stop by this authentic fish and chips shop for a taste of expertly prepared dishes inspired by the streets of Dublin. The shop, around the corner from Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant, is actually named for the family of Raglan Road’s co-owner, John Cooke, who have a history in the fish and chips business going back generations. Here you’ll find lots of dishes that will keep you coming back for more. Of course, you can opt for
the classic Fish & Chips, available in both adult and kid portions. However, if you want to venture off the beaten path a bit, opt for one of the shop’s savory pies, or dig into the Hog in the Box, a delightful and generous combo pork shoulder, baby potatoes, sage and sweet onion stuffing and apple sauce. You’ll swear you’ve stumbled into someone’s Sunday supper with this one. Looking for libations? Stop at the patio bar next door for a pint of Guinness to complete your experience. raglanroad.com HUNGER STREET TACOS Created by brothers Joseph and David Creech and Joseph’s wife, Seydi, this beloved Orlando spot knows Mexico City street food. In their Winter Park location, colorful murals set the stage for an uncommon dining experience infused with an authenticity that only comes from the true WHERET RAV EL ER ® G UEST B OOK
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Clockwise from left: Black Bean Deli breakfast items; BBD’s patio at their Mills 50 location; Noodles from Mamak Asian Street Food.
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BLACK BEAN DELI With locations in Winter Park and the Mills 50 District, Black Bean Deli serves up the freshest Cuban food around. Owner Andres Corton draws inspiration from his grandparents, and the 1960s Miami cafes with their ventanitas, Cuban sandwiches and platos fuertes. A plate will easily serve two people, so split it with your favorite person. We recommend the Havana Pork served with rice, black beans, sweet plantains and a green salad. Their sweet plantains are a delicious
side, but for the ultimate in simple pleasure, opt for their fresh pressed Cuban bread with butter. It’s also a great stop for breakfast; don’t miss their cafe con leche and guava and cheese pastries. blackbeandeli.com MAMAK ASIAN STREET FOOD You won’t be able to resist this stylish stop offering some of the tastiest Southeast Asian street-style fare around. The concept’s namesake, pronounced “Mah-Mahk,” comes
©ROBERTO GONZALEZ
love of a culture—and its cuisine. All tacos are served on house-made tortillas, made with heirloom corn that’s nixtamalized in-house for freshness that’s unparalleled. You can’t go wrong with, well, anything on the menu. Known especially for their scrumptious Al Pastor tacos, the real draw is the love and care that go into every dish. Don’t want to drive all the way to Winter Park? Visit their new location in Winter Garden’s Plant Street Market, close to the attractions. hungerstreettacos.com
©ROBERTO GONZALEZ
From left: Mamak’s dining room; an assortment of dishes from Bao’s Castle.
from the term for a street vendor or food stall in Southeast Asia. These stalls are owned and operated by chefs putting their own spin on traditional recipes. The Lo Family built Mamak upon this idea and brought their homegrown recipes to the table, many of which came straight from their grandparents. Don’t leave without trying dishes like their Roti Canai, a traditional crispy Malaysian flatbread toasted till golden brown, crispy on the outside, and fluffy on the inside, served with their signature spicy coconut
kari gravy, or the charcoal-grilled Satay chicken or beef skewers. The Kari Mee Noodle Soup, a Malaysian staple, is hearty, filling and generous enough to share (if you want to). mamakeats.com BAO’S CASTLE This SODO District darling is nestled on the ground level of the Target Shopping Plaza on Orange Avenue, perfectly located for the visitor looking to explore Orlando like a local. Bao’s Castle serves up a wide range of bao, a warm
fluffy bun stuffed with amazing ingredients. Try the Sidestepper, a fried soft shell crab with apple-kimchi and dressed arugula. Fair warning: it’s spicy! The Fiesta, a bao filled with braised short rib and topped with pico de gallo, and mojo sauce is flavorful and filling. Vegetarians and meat eaters alike can tuck into the Toadfu, featuring panko-crusted tofu served with kimchi cucumber, pickled onions and sake aioli. baoscastle.com
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BOMBAY STREET KITCHEN Come explore the spirit of Indian Street Food Culture from the moment you enter Bombay Street Kitchen to the moment you leave and start planning your return! The eatery has recently relocated to a beautiful new spot on Orange Blossom Trail in South Orlando, and offers some of the best examples of unique Indian culture direct from the streets of Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore and beyond. Get the Dahi Bhalla Papri Chaat, lentil balls with 24
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spiced yogurt and chutneys, or the Tandoori Vegetable Momo, grilled vegetable dumplings. On a recent visit, we couldn’t get enough of the Kale Chaat, a vibrant and colorful mix of crispyfried kale, yogurt and chutneys, topped with jewel-like pomegranate seeds. Save room for dessert, because Bombay offers a Gola Station. bombaykitchenorlando.com STICKY RICE LAO STREET FOOD If you drive by too fast you just might miss
Sticky Rice Lao Street Food, a tapas-sized Laotian restaurant on Colonial Drive in the Mills 50 District. Bucket list-level items include the Shrimp Chips, and Sai Oua, or lemongrass pork sausage. Popular in Laos and northern Thailand, the sausage is usually served alongside another regional favorite, sticky rice, to create a contrasting and layered dish, so order a side to complete the experience. facebook.com/ StickyRiceStreetFood
©ROBERTO GONZALEZ
Clockwise from top left: Kale Chaat from Bombay Street Kitchen; Sticky Rice Lao Street Food; Outside Bombay Street Kitchen on a beautiful Orlando evening.
A SA LU TE F O TO S O M E ’ S AM E R ICA S FAVO R I T E
(FROM LEFT): COURTESY PORTILLO’S; COURTESY CATHERINE WALTERS
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hanks in part to plenty of homegrown favorites to savor in The City Beautiful, Central Florida attracts visitors eager to enjoy our fantastic city. As a result, iconic regional chains have taken note, and are flying south, too. Here are three favorites from other parts of the country that are now calling The Sunshine State home. WHITE CASTLE If someone casually asks who started the fast-food revolution, you might be tempted to answer that the Golden Arches were first; but you’d be wrong. The much less ubiquitous and still-family-owned White Castle actually ushered in the concept long before others got there. The chain, known for its famed square sliders, got its start in 1921, when Edgar Waldo “Billy” Ingram and Walter Anderson opened their first location in Wichita, Kansas. And yes, if you are the math-y sort, you’ll deduce that the company turns 100 years old in 2021. In a fitting tribute to its centennial, White Castle has returned to the Florida market (four locations operated in Miami during the 1960s). The new Orlando location, its largest free-standing store, opened to the cheers and cravings of fans earlier this year in The Village at O-Town West, near the attractions. whitecastle.com
PORTILLO’S Craving dogs instead of burgers? How about a Hot Italian Beef Sandwich, or a Chocolate Cake Shake? Portillo’s has been a Chicagoland institution since 1963, when Dick Portillo opened his “Dog House ‘’ in Villa Park. Serving those iconic Chicago-style dogs—an all-beef frank topped with mustard, neon-green relish, celery salt, onions, tomatoes, pickle and peppers on a steamed poppy seed bun—is their calling card. But they’re also known for Italian Beef sammies, piled high with addictive hot giardiniera peppers. (Order it dipped and prepare for the deliciously messy results. Trust us.) portillos.com CULVER’S Holy Butter Burgers, Batman! This little midwest chain serves up craveable bites made famous in America’s heartland: think creamy frozen custard, addictive cheese curds, and of course, those burgers. What began as one spot in 1984 has blossomed into more than 740 stores scattered across the U.S., with eight locations right here in Central Florida. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go order a Blueberry Cheesecake Concrete Mixer. culvers.com WHERET RAV EL ER ® G UEST B OOK
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PRIDE OF PLACE
Orlando’s hometown professional men’s and women’s soccer teams inspire locals and visitors alike—and the world has taken notice. BY PETER KERASOTIS
COURTESY ORLANDO CITY SC
(OPPOSITE AND FOLLOWING PAGES): COURTESY MAITLAND ART CENTER
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t is almost impossible to venture around Central Florida without seeing something purple—a hat, a t-shirt, a jersey, a bumper sticker, something, anything, that signals the local love affair with Orlando’s two professional soccer clubs, both of which proudly display purple as their team color. That the color purple is so ubiquitous makes it seems as though the Orlando City Soccer Club and the Orlando Pride have been woven into Central Florida’s fabric for decades. In reality, Major League Soccer awarded Orlando City SC its 21st franchise in November 2013, with the team beginning play the following year. The Pride, a fitting female name that played off OCSC Lions’ moniker, joined the National Women’s Soccer League in 2015. Orlando City SC wasted no time amplifying its little expansion team blip on the MLS radar by announcing that the first player it signed was international superstar Kaká, creating a frenzy of interest in the team. Kaká, an attacking, playmaking midfielder from Brazil, was a generational player, one of only eight players in soccer history to have won the FIFA World Cup, the UEFA Champions League, and the Ballon d’Or. With that combination of team and individual accolades, Kaká and Orlando City became an immediate attraction locally and internationally. Before long, they even had fan clubs in both Brazil and the United Kingdom. Locally, Central Florida was like a thirsty sponge,
ready to soak in all things soccer—or more appropriately football, as the sport is known throughout most of the globe. By any name, it is the number one sport in the world, and Orlando is the world’s number one tourist destination, with the number of annual visitors pushing toward 90 million. But it goes beyond visitors. Orlando is a diverse city demographically, especially with a burgeoning Latin American and Caribbean presence. Add to that decades of youth soccer leagues producing lifelong fans of the sport, and Central Florida was a ready-made fan base just longing for a pro team to attach its allegiance to. Now it had two teams. The Pride matched Orlando City not only in their color scheme, and with their mascot, Kingston, a muscular, dreadlocked lion, but in exploding onto the scene with a superstar all its own—Alex Morgan. One of the foremost faces of women’s soccer, Morgan was acquired by the Pride via a trade with the Portland Thorns FC. It was a great fit both on and off the pitch. Since Morgan’s husband, Servando Carrasco, was already playing for Orlando City, the two became the first couple of Central Florida soccer. Morgan’s acquisition undeniably ratcheted up the Pride’s presence in the NWSL. An endorsement darling and an outspoken advocate for women’s soccer, Morgan has also been the co-captain of the United States Women’s National Soccer Team as well as a three-time Olympian. Orlando City and the Pride first played in the WHERET RAV EL ER ® G UEST B OOK
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revamped Citrus Bowl while waiting for a stunning, 25,500-seat, $110-million stadium to be built in downtown Orlando, near the Amway Center. Adrian Heath, Orlando City’s first coach, recalls early meetings to discuss the layout and the feel of the new stadium, which came to be called Exploria Stadium (and features, of course, purple seats). The stadium opened in 2017, and became the first venue to host MLS, NWSL, and USL teams. Heath successfully lobbied that the stadium’s seats be pitched steeply and positioned close to the field. That strategic decision placed fans on top of the action, with players feeling their support so strongly, it was if it embodied them. And that support came immediately, with more than 13,000 season tickets selling before a foot struck a ball that first season. 28
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When the first game of Orlando City’s inaugural season was played on March 8, 2015, it arrived in an epic way. Some 62,510 fans, a purple tsunami of people, shoehorned into the Citrus Bowl to witness the team’s home opener against New York City FC, setting an attendance record for an expansion team. They saw Kaká score the Orlando City’s first goal in a 1-1 tie. The interest didn’t wane. They finished that season with the second-highest average attendance figures in the MLS, behind only the Seattle Sounders FC. Said Heath at the time, “People used to ask, ‘When do you think the game will take off in the United States?’ And I’d say, ‘The game has taken off.’ This isn’t a case of: Is it going to succeed? It’s a case of: How big is it going to get? Because it’s getting bigger and better by the day.”
His words have proven to be prophetic. Heath even recalled the first time he said the word soccer aloud in his native England. He was in a pub, and when he dared utter the word soccer it hushed the room. “You know that typical scene in a film, when the music stops and every head turns,” Heath recalled, laughing at the memory. “That’s what it was like. Everybody stopped talking and looked straight at me.” All because of one blasphemous American word he dared utter in a British pub—soccer. You’d have thought Heath had accused the queen of being a trollop or maligned the music of the Beatles. But he knew firsthand what was happening in America, and specifically in Central Florida. So if Americans prefer the word soccer, so be it. The sport is still the same. So is the passion.
COURTESY ORLANDO CITY SC
Left: Defender Robin Jansson celebrates; Right: Luís Carlos Almeida da Cunha, known as Nani, is one of Orlando’s hottest players.
COURTESY ORLANDO CITY SC
(Clockwise from left): Defender Kylie Strom and forward Sydney Leroux; Pride players tangle with Louisville during a match; Defender Ali Krieger in action.
Especially the purple passion. As is the case overseas, Orlando’s soccer fans follow suit, and are a raucous and rabid bunch. The Orlando City fans are known for standing the entire match, banging drums and cheering chants. Its two main supporter groups—the Ruckus and the Iron Lion Firm—join forces on game days to form what is called “The Wall.” It’s a purple wall, to be sure. As the MLS and NWLS continue to grow in American popularity and international respectability, Orlando City SC and the Pride have grown with it, attracting elite players. Kaká, whose full name is Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite, retired after the 2017 season, but the team now has another superstar. That would be Luís Carlos Almeida da Cunha, who, like Kaká, goes
by a well-known, one-name moniker: Nani. The Portuguese player, known for his frenetic footwork, is an attacking winger who delights fans with somersaults, backflips, cartwheels and other assorted gymnastic moves after scoring goals. Meanwhile, Alex Morgan is still a sensational player for the Pride. She is joined in a starstudded lineup by team captain and goalkeeper Ashlyn Harris, who grew up in nearby Satellite Beach, Florida, and the legendary Marta Vieira da Silva, known internationally as Marta. An electric Brazilian midfielder, Marta has been a six-time FIFA World Player of the Year. The Pride made the playoffs for its first and only time in 2018, advancing all the way to the semifinals. Orlando City made the playoffs for the first time in 2020, advancing to the quarterfinals.
These days, the two teams are owned by the Wilf family—brothers Mark and Zygi Wilf, and their cousin Leonard Wilf—who purchased both teams in May of 2021. The DeVos family, well-respected owners of the NBA’s Orlando Magic, were brought into the purchase as minority owners and limited partners, which served to add an extra layer of credibility to the two soccer teams. The Wilfs have big-time credibility, too. Owning a sports franchise isn’t anything new for the family. The Wilfs have owned the NFL’s Minnesota Vikings since 2005, and for years, they had wanted to expand their sports empire into professional soccer ownership. That it worked out with Orlando’s two pro teams seemed only fitting. As with Orlando City and the Pride, the Vikings’ team color is—you guessed it—purple. WHERET RAV EL ER ® G UEST B OOK
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HAPPY 50TH ANNIVERSARY, WALT DISNEY WORLD! The entertainment icon celebrates a major milestone beginning October 2021. BY BROOKE FEHR
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f you immediately think of world-class attractions when you hear “Orlando,” you’re not alone. And while Florida tourism certainly predates Walt Disney World, it’s hard to overestimate the impact that the mammoth resort has had on Central Florida. In 2021, we celebrate 50 years of Walt Disney World, an anniversary that the company is marking in a myriad of ways, spanning 18 months. Here, we share some of the fete’s details, from new daytime and nighttime shows, to new openings and perks for resort guests. Look for plenty of delightful surprises (and yes, more than a sprinkling of pixie dust) to continue rolling out for the foreseeable future.
NIGHTTIME: LOOK TO THE SKIES AND BEACONS OF MAGIC
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Nighttime spectaculars have long been a hallmark of a Disney theme park visit. In October, Disney launched two long-awaited 30
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new shows. At Magic Kingdom, guests can gather for “Disney Enchantment,” which replaced “Wishes.” The new show aims to inspire audiences to believe in the power of magic, and will combine music, lighting, fireworks, and projection. For the first time, Disney will extend the projection effects down Main Street for an unparalleled, immersive experience. At EPCOT, guests are finally getting to experience Harmonious, a new show that was originally expected to debut in 2020. The performance, one of the largest Disney has ever produced, pays homage to the power of song to tell stories and unite humankind, and incorporates pyrotechnics and fountains, in addition to lighting and media. The music from the show brings together 240 artists from around the world performing familiar Disney tunes in more than a dozen languages. In addition to the new nighttime shows, all four parks have debuted visual enhancements to their central icons. Magic Kingdom’s Cinderella Castle receives a healthy dose of pixie
ALL PHOTOS COURTESY WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT
dust, while magical fireflies will dance among the branches of the Tree of Life at Animal Kingdom. Tower of Terror at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is bathed in light. At EPCOT, the changes to Spaceship Earth are permanent; the beloved geodesic sphere sports new lighting that mimics the night sky.
DAYTIME: DISNEY KITETAILS, FAB 50 STATUES AND MORE Cool things are happening during the day as well. What would a party be without new duds? Mickey, Minnie and their closest friends have all received new outfits in time for this year’s celebration, so be sure to grab a photo as you see them throughout the parks. At Animal Kingdom, Disney KiteTails debuted Oct. 1, and takes place several times
daily inside the Discovery River Amphitheatre. Look for wind catchers and kites—some 30 feet long—to fly above land and water in a celebration of our animal friends—including some beloved Disney characters. In addition, new golden “Disney Fab 50” statues are sprinkled throughout all of the theme parks. The series of 50 characters, including Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, Goofy, Pluto and Chip ‘n’ Dale, are interactive, so be sure to hunt for them all. There are also some great reasons to book your getaway during the 50th anniversary celebration. All guests staying at Disney resorts will have early morning access to parks, while guests at Deluxe resorts can enjoy extended evening hours on select nights at select resorts.
BIENVENUE, REMY! Also at EPCOT, a highly-anticipated attraction of giant proportions has opened in the France Pavilion. Shrink down to the size of a rat and embark on a caper on Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, a madcap chase through the kitchens of world-famous Gasteau’s Restaurant. But the attraction is only part of the fun. Walk along the streets of Paris and stumble into a whole new part of the pavilion, inspired by the film Ratatouille. As you explore, be sure to stop by Le Creperie de Paris, a new eatery offering both quick-service and table-service options. With a menu of savory buckwheat galettes, sweet crepes and authentic French hard cider, temptation abounds.
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Q&A
INTERVIEWED BY PETER KERASOTIS
U
ndrafted by the NBA out of college, Jamahl Mosley traveled the world playing professional basketball. But his mother’s cancer diagnosis and subsequent death in 2005 sent him on a trek that eventually led him to becoming, at 42, the Orlando Magic head coach.
After your college career at the University of Colorado, the NBA didn’t draft you, so you played in other leagues around the world. Tell us about that.
I first played two years in Australia, then a year in Spain, then South Korea. I also brief ly played in Mexico and Finland. But when my mother got sick with multiple myeloma, I needed to decide whether I was going to continue to play overseas or stay stateside and be closer to family and friends. The latter became the priority.
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What was that experience like, traveling the world playing basketball?
I love to travel. I love to explore. I love to learn about different cultures, about different people. It was a great journey to explore all those things that I really enjoy and get paid to play basketball on top of it. The experience opened my eyes to so many things. You don’t even have to speak the language to understand how many things you have in common. No matter the place or culture, people want the same thing. They want to enjoy their family, they want to enjoy their friends, they want to go have a good time, and they want to be around good people. I took that from every place I went. What were some of your favorite dishes in your travels?
They have a great Little Italy section in Melbourne, Australia. I would go there and eat chicken
parmesan until I couldn’t see, and fettuccine Alfredo too. I also ate a ton of lamb there. In Spain, I fell in love with the salads, the unbelievable salads. They were incredible. In Mexico, the meats are just different. I love the carne asada there. I also like how they use real cheese versus queso on everything. It’s a different taste, and I love that version of Mexican food. You ended your playing career to be with your mom. How did that change your life?
That was the crossroads of life, deciding what was most important. My mother was an amazing woman, a teacher, a philanthropist, she wrote a book, did social work, and she was a big dreamer. Her dream for me was that I teach and help people become better versions of themselves. As I got into doing that, into coaching, it made the most sense. Everything fell into
place. It was a blessing. Even in the sadness it was a blessing. I understand that’s when you went back to Colorado and became an unpaid intern for the Denver Nuggets?
For two years I was an unpaid intern. George Karl (the thenNuggets head coach) gave me some money out of his pocket in order to sustain me. I also had put some money away from playing. It wasn’t enough, but I was living with one of my roommates from college. I’d drive 45 minutes to the Pepsi Center and try to figure out a way to earn my way into the NBA. Whatever they needed me to do, I did. Mostly I learned player development, what it looked like and how it should be. What did you think the ultimate destination was going to be? Becoming an NBA head coach?
Honestly, no. When you start you want to be the best version, and I still believe this to this day, you just want to be the best version of yourself every single day. Whatever role you’re in, just dominate that role. For me, it was starting in player development, then in video, then advanced scouting, whatever it was I was doing, I wanted to be the best I could be in that role. Eventually, I became an assistant coach and it was, okay, I just want to be the best assistant coach. Then I got a couple of interviews for head coaching jobs, and people were saying I was really good, and that this is where things were heading. Only then did I put that in the forefront of my mind a little bit. But for me it’s always been about serving to help people get better.
who I’ve been in my life and what I want to be on and off the court. What style of play can fans expect to see under your leadership?
A relentless style of play. We’re going to get after it night in and night out. You’re going to see guys competing with a joy and passion for the game every night. We’re also going to give everybody an opportunity to make each other better.
Q&A Keith Cradle’s recently formed nonprofit gets Charlotte kids outside of the city and into the Great Outdoors.
You have three kids under eight years old. How did you convince them to leave Dallas, where you were an assistant coach with the Mavericks, and move
There are only 30 of these
to Orlando?
jobs in the NBA, so when one is offered to you at 42 years old, you’re obviously going to take it. But what specifically about the Orlando Magic job
COURTESY THE ORLANDO MAGIC
appealed to you?
The organization is about the right things. The family atmosphere is real. When I talk about my goals and what I want to be, it lined up with their goals. It also lined up with what my mother represented and what my family represents. Everything the Magic organization represents is about the culture of making people better. So it’s been an easy transition for me. It matches with
When I got the job offer, the first person I told was my wife, and then we told our kids. The immediate reaction was tears. But in the same breath when we told them we were leaving Texas and going to Orlando, we said, “There’s Disney World.” We told them that now they get to live next to Mickey and Minnie. That was the selling point—Disney World.
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DOWNTOWN ORLANDO By day, high-rises bustle with office workers. After dark, the streets fill with decked-out club-hoppers. Yet downtown Orlando is packed with intriguing sub-destinations worth exploring. Orlando’s creative community shows its talent in the Downtown Arts District where CityArts Factory boasts several galleries, arts venues rotate collections regularly and street sculptures abound. Lake Eola is where tourists ride paddle boats shaped like swans, shoppers stock up at a weekly farmers market and groups practice yoga on the lawn en masse. Hipsters live in Thornton Park’s restored historic homes, urban professionals in its contemporary condos; both frequent the neighborhood’s chic and casual restaurants. Big venues draw crowds: the sports and concert arena Amway Center, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts and Camping World Stadium, along with the Exploria Stadium, home to the area’s professional soccer teams. Before and after downtown events, attendees gather around Church Street, where historic buildings with fanciful adornments mix with contemporary buildings to house dining and nightlife.
Russell’s on Lake Ivanhoe and The Pinery offer chic dining with great views of Lake Ivanhoe. It’s a short walk to Loch Haven Park’s museums and theaters. Nearby, Mills 50 is two neighborhoods in one. Artsy with an edge, it’s an LGBTQ-friendly enclave lined with inexpensive cafes serving flavors that span the globe. It’s also Orlando’s Asian center, packed with Vietnamese restaurants, grocery stores and acupuncture practices. Local graffiti artists have transformed utility boxes, dumpsters and exterior business walls into works of art.
COLLEGE PARK The main drag, Edgewater Drive, is a pedestrian friendly thoroughfare with restaurants, boutiques and resale furniture emporiums. Surrounding that, 1920s-era bungalows along brick roads named for universities are home to an eclectic group of residents, most of whom shop and socialize at the now-retro 1950 Publix supermarket. Author Jack Kerouac once spent time in one of the bungalows; it’s now a writer’s retreat. Locals take five at Infusion Tea or stop by College Park Cafe for authentic Cuban fare. Away from College Park’s center, expansive homes with lake views show Orlando living at its most graceful.
WINTER GARDEN Quaint, friendly and free of pretension, the welIVANHOE ROW/MILLS 50 This Orlando neighborhood is known for its offbeat yet attractive businesses. Ivanhoe Row was long Orlando’s antiques center; now art galleries and trendy bars fill the vintage storefronts with hipster wares and fare. New restaurants like 34
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coming enclave with brick-paved streets and faux gas lamps is timeless yet trend-forward. Children jump in splash pads and couples relax in oversized porch swings set in the center of town, where Americana is played out alfresco. Adults sup and sip wine and martinis in dining rooms, cafes and
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watering holes. A brewery and indoor locavore market, plus a weekly farmers market, offer up artisan wares and groceries at Plant Street Market. Those looking to stay in shape will appreciate the West Orange Trail, which cuts a path directly through the downtown area.
DR. PHILLIPS/RESTAURANT ROW The main drag, Sand Lake Road, has become known as Restaurant Row, attracting an equal number of tourists and locals to its high-end and midscale eateries on the lakefront and tucked inside upscale strip malls. Boutiques, trendy grocers and polished retailers selling goods from cigars to liqueurs beckon those looking to stock their hotel rooms or suitcases. Quiet parks dot Dr. Phillips, which was named for a citrus magnate and philanthropist. Bay Hill, a residential golf community, is home to the annual Arnold Palmer Invitational, started by the late Orlando resident and “King of Golf.”
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KISSIMMEE A quiet agricultural community before the theme parks came to town, modern-day Kissimmee invites visitors to experience Old Florida. Airboat, zipline and ropes-course operators add a bolt of thrill to the outdoor experience. New development, however, beckons visitors west on U.S. Route 192 for stellar shopping and dining at Sunset Walk, or splash down at the H2O Live! water park.
LAKE NONA On the opposite side of town, southeast of Orlando, just north of the Osceola County line and St. Cloud, is Lake Nona, a shining
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gem in the portfolio of Tavistock Development Company. A masterplanned community, Lake Nona is anchored by Medical City and an impressive town center where a creative urban vibe is evident in its architecture. Four- and five-story office buildings, hotels, restaurants, small businesses and sidewalks, plus public art and a color-themed design put it a notch above other planned communities. When completed at the end of 2021, its 18-story Lake Nona Wave Hotel, designed by Arquitectonica, will be the beginning of Lake Nona’s skyline.
HORIZON WEST Considered one of the largest master-planned developments in Central Florida’s history, this area in West Orange County was on the drawing board beginning in 1995. The project, inspired by the New Urbanism movement, encompasses a town center and five villages, each with several neighborhoods offering a mix of housing styles, schools, parks and recreation. In January 1997, Horizon West received the green light from Orange County to begin work on its first village, Lakeside, and the building hasn’t stopped. Since then, the development has evolved to include Bridgewater, Seidel, Hickory Nut and Ovation. The construction of Hamlin Town Center, a commercial area designed to serve all the villages, continues today. It’s home to several small businesses as well as essentials such as Orlando Health Horizon West Hospital, a Publix supermarket and a 24-hour Walmart Supercenter. Today, Lakeside, Bridgewater and Seidel are basically complete while Hickory Nut, Ovation and Hamlin still offer homesites for prospective buyers. WHERET RAV EL ER ® G UEST B OOK
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UTOPIAN COMMUNITY Often referred to as “Little Europe,” Winter Park offers visitors a peek into Florida’s past. Cobblestone streets, pristine lakes, world-class art, an affluent main street and historic homes are just part of what makes Winter Park a must-visit destination for visitors and a beloved neighborhood for locals. Located in the bend of the railroad between Jacksonville and Orlando, their mild-climate paradise for wealthy Northerners would include schools, homes, churches and businesses nestled among the area’s scenic lakes. In 1885, Rollins College opened its doors, and the following year, Winter Park’s first hotel opened, featuring extravagant amenities like steam heat and electricity. Over the decades, the city thrived with an influx of businesses and the donation of land for parks and golf courses by wealthy retirees. Today, more than 28,000 residents call the area home, in addition to some 2,400 students.
CENTRAL PARK Situated at the heart of Winter Park is one of the city’s most beloved landmarks, Central Park. The 11-acre green space plays host to a long list of events throughout the year, including the annual Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival as well as the annual Olde Fashioned 4th of July Celebration. The winter holidays are an especially fes36
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(Left to Right): Bicycling on Park Avenue; Winter Park Farmer’s Market.
tive time, as the city partners with the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art to produce Christmas in the Park the first Thursday of each December. Turn-of-the-century Tiffany stained glass windows provide a beautiful backdrop for a performance by the Bach Festival Choir and Brass Ensemble. Any time of the year, the park’s bubbling fountains and seating areas, landscaped planters and a stunning oak tree canopy lure thousands of visitors from both near and far. Children play with abandon, and couples lounge lazily in the shade on picnic blankets. Central Park’s Rose Garden, located on the southern border of the park, beckons visitors to stop and sit for a spell.
COLLEGE CHARM The area’s historic charm is thanks in large part to Rollins College, the state’s oldest college, named for one of Winter Park’s founders, Alonzo W. Rollins. Spanish-Mediterranean style buildings sit on the banks of Lake Virginia, with the main gates facing Park Avenue. Visitors can step onto a boardwalk amid cypress trees and moss-draped oaks overlooking the lake. The crew team practices here, along with students piloting sailboats checked out from the campus boathouse. The public can visit Rollins Museum of Art free of charge and admire paintings by Georgia
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TIFFANY at the
O’Keeffe, Marc Chagall and Edgar Degas, as well as traveling exhibitions. Famous alumni include golf-course designer Pete Dye, actor Anthony Perkins, Paul McCartney’s stepson Arlen Shevell and Mr. (Fred) Rogers, who wrote “Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” as his senior thesis.
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SHOPPING & DINING At the heart of the Winter Park shopping and dining experience is famed Park Avenue. Although Central Park occupies much of the west side of the brick-paved thoroughfare, a collection of cozy cafés, upscale restaurants and quaint shops line the half-mile stretch on the east, and to the north and south of the park. You will find everything from a two-story Pottery Barn inside a 1939 art deco movie theater to boutiques like Siegel’s Winter Park, Lilly Pulitzer, Shoooz, Tuni, Tugboat & the Bird and established jewelers. Treat yourself to a coconut ice cream cone at Kilwins, chocolate-covered popcorn at Peterbrooke Chocolatier or savory samples at The Ancient Olive. Take a shopping break at The Wine Room, where you swipe your credit card for 1-, 2.5or 5-ounce pours. Or round the corner from Park Avenue onto Morse Boulevard for an authentic French pastry at Croissant Gourmet. Dining rooms, both upscale and casual, make Winter Park a popular destination for romantic date nights and lively alfresco brunches throughout the city, both on Park Avenue and beyond. The James Beard Foundation has put its stamp of approval on many Winter Park eateries, giving James and
MORSE The Morse Museum houses the world’s most comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, including his chapel from the 1893 Chicago world’s fair and art objects from his Long Island estate, Laurelton Hall. Public hours may be found online at morsemuseum.org
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445 north park avenue winter park, florida 32789 (407) 645-5311 just a 5-minute walk from the sunrail station.
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WINTER PARK
Julie Petrakis of gastropub The Ravenous Pig a nod, as well as Brandon McGlamery of Prato, Park Avenue’s upscale and contemporary Italian eatery. Just west of Park Avenue, historic Hannibal Square and the surrounding area feature day spas and salons, in addition to boutique shopping and dining options. Even further to the west, visitors can stock their suitcases with goodies at Trader Joe’s, grab a Shake Shack burger or dine overlooking Lake Killarney at Hillstone. Just across Orlando Avenue are Bulla Gastrobar, a fantastic stop for tapas, as well as the tempting boutique bakery, The Glass Knife. If your visit takes place on Saturday, make your way back downtown to enjoy the Winter Park Farmers Market, offering delights like freshly baked breads, just-picked flowers, fragrant local honey, from-scratch jams, fresh pasta and big vats of kettle corn made on the spot.
CULTURAL TREASURES Winter Park gives visitors access to significant works of art. Rollins College alumnus Hugh McKean had been a student of Louis Comfort Tiffany at his Long Island, New York, estate, Laurelton Hall, in 1930. After a fire at the estate, McKean and his wife, Jeannette, salvaged much of the work and opened a museum in Winter Park. Now celebrating its 79th year, the museum is named for Jeannette’s 38
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grandfather, Winter Park benefactor Charles Hosmer Morse. Home to the world’s most comprehensive collection of Tiffany’s work, guests will find a wide array of art created by the master artist and designer, including jewelry, pottery and paintings, art glass and examples of leaded glass lamps and windows. Recently, the museum was also gifted The Stebbins Collection by Theodore E. Stebbins Jr. and Susan Cragg Stebbins. The 65-piece collection includes sculpture, watercolor, drawings and paintings, with works by late 19th- and early 20th-century artists such as Albert Bierstadt, Martin Johnson Heade, John LaFarge among others.
BY WATER Walking distance from the shops of Park Avenue, Winter Park Scenic Boat Tours offers visitors views of the city’s postcard-perfect shores as they glide along the beautiful Winter Park chain of lakes and into hidden canals, initially created to serve the interests of local logging companies. The tour, established in 1938, is one of Florida’s oldest attractions. During the hour-long voyage, observe eagles soaring above, marvel at towering cypress trees, and even spot an alligator sunning on the beach. If you prefer to be more active, just head to nearby Lake Killarney, where Paddleboard Orlando rents paddleboards by the hour.
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A TRAVELER’S DREAM Just off Park Avenue is The Alfond Inn. This chic boutique hotel has been listed in the top 10 on Travel + Leisure’s prestigious list of “Best City Hotels in the Continental U.S.” “Winter Park is the hidden gem of Central Florida that’s increasingly less hidden,” says Betsy Gardner Eckbert, president/CEO of the Winter Park Chamber of
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Commerce. “We are thrilled that now even international visitors have discovered Winter Park’s unique blend of charm and sophistication. Whether you’re here for our Venetian canals, world-class art or the finest in shopping and dining, we know you’ll understand why Winter Park has been a magnet for tourists since the 19th century.” WHERET RAV EL ER ® G UEST B OOK
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ORLANDO NORTH
A RELAXING OASIS When you need a vacation from your vacation, simply head northeast of Orlando to a natural oasis, an easy and convenient distance from the theme-park crowds. Here you’ll find a blend of historic, quaint downtown areas alongside 2,000 waterways, including scenic lakes, rivers, natural springs and even a private island.
ORLANDO’S NATURAL SIDE For an admission fee notably less than many local attractions, you can see hundreds of exotic animals, including giraffes, rhinos and more, at the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens in Sanford. For an adrenaline rush, Seminole Aerial Adventures allows you to explore the treetops on suspended ropes courses and ziplines. Hiking and cycling enthusiasts receive a hearty welcome and plenty of opportunities to ride and hike along the trails that wind through Orlando North, Seminole County. Curving through parkland, streetscapes and waterfront locales, the well-kept hiking and biking trails are part of the Florida National Scenic Trail, a federally designated, non-motorized recreational trail that spans across some 40
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of the state’s most beautiful and unique landscapes. Paddlers will also find their paradise here. Wekiwa Springs State Park offers a crystalclear swimming hole with canoe rentals, and just upstream is Wekiva Island, a popular hangout for canoeing and kayaking on the Wekiva River where the water remains a constant 72 degrees year round. Other Orlando North waterways offer recreation. Enjoy the thrill of an airboat ride and see tons of alligators with Black Hammock Adventures on Lake Jesup in Oviedo. For a slower pace, rent a sailboat and cruise Lake Monroe or dine and cruise with the St. Johns Rivership Company aboard the Barbara-Lee, an authentic paddlewheel boat.
DOWNTOWN SANFORD Seminole County boasts several quaint areas, with Sanford being its heart. This historic downtown sits on the shores of beautiful Lake Monroe, part of the St. Johns River, the largest river in Florida. Downtown you’ll find lots of old Florida charm coupled with a hip, young vibe as you traverse cobblestone streets and brick sidewalks. Family-owned restaurants, trendy boutiques and lively night spots now occupy historic buildings, alongside gracious Victorian-style homes. Don’t miss The Imperial at Washburn Imports, an eclectic furniture store by day that transforms into an intimate bar every evening,
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(Left to right): Take to the water at Wekiva Island on a paddleboard tour with Paddleboard Orlando. Bike one of Orlando North’s many trails. Vegetable Farfalle from Marlow’s Tavern in Oviedo is one tempting meal option.
serving beer, wine and cocktails. For the ultimate s’mores treat, you’ll want to stop by Wondermade. What began as a passion project by a local couple is now a renowned business of gourmet handcrafted marshmallows in a variety of flavors like strawberry, mint, lavender, gold champagne, bourbon and Fireball. In 2017, the shop expanded to offer homemade ice cream in a variety of interesting flavors. Cornbread and maple bacon are standouts.
LOCAL CUISINE Outside the charming suburban communities, Orlando North, Seminole County features vast tracts of rural and agricultural land. Sanford was long known as the “Celery Capital of the World,” and today, visitors can best experience this farming heritage at the dinner table. The fare at F&D Kitchen in Lake Mary reflects the culinary team’s commitment to Florida fishermen, farmers and brewers. Tennessee Truffle originated as a pop-up restaurant; the spot’s success
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AK Y A K OU R Y F O E T.
N E M E T E XC I
E DG
When the question is where adventure awaits, there’s only one answer—Orlando North. Explore and experience a slice of Central Florida like no other. @DoOrlandoNorth
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necessitated that chef-owner Nat Russell set down permanent roots in downtown Sanford. The menu changes daily but always retains a Southern feel with a modern twist—the popcorn-flavored ice cream is a must if you’re lucky enough to visit when it’s offered. Sanford’s newest culinary destination is Henry’s Depot, a food hall featuring everything from cocktails to seafood to vegan fare, and so much more. The area’s diverse population has created a melting pot of international cuisine. Diners find global flavors in Lake Mary at Memories of India, Krazy Greek Kitchen, and newly opened Viet-Nomz in Lake Mary. Longwood’s Enzo’s on the Lake serves sensational antipasti and Italian specialties in a romantic waterside setting. In Altamonte Springs, you can grab a Cuban coffee and a hearty sandwich at Zaza or share delectable Spanish tapas at the ever-popular Santiago’s Bodega. Sanford offers modern Japanese cuisine at Jimotti’s Restaurant and German food and entertainment at Hollerbach’s Willow Tree Cafe. Oviedo’s Sushi Pop is one the best sushi restaurants in the entire metro area. 42
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BEER. AND SO MUCH MORE While Central Florida in general continues to offer a dynamic beverage scene, nowhere is that more apparent than in Seminole County. In Historic Downtown Sanford especially, visitors can create their own brewery crawl and visit four breweries within five blocks. At WopsHops Brewing Company & Kitchen, treat yourself to craft beer paired with hearty, Italianinspired fare, including the famous Wop-sicle, their signature house meatballs. Standouts in the beverage department include Nero, a dark German-style lager. Across the street, Sanford Brewing Company provides more brews in a modern, convivial atmosphere. Nearby, Deviant Wolfe is a newer member of the burgeoning club. Craft doesn’t just mean beer, however. You’ll also find an impressive collection of craft cider at Tuffy’s Bottle Shop, which also offers a beer garden and plays host to Sanford Indie Market. If your tastes run to liquor, stop The Suffering Bastard for an authentic tiki bar experience, complete with immaculate decor and Polynesian-inspired concoctions.
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GETTING HERE Orlando North, Seminole County is about an hour’s drive from major attractions via the 417 toll road or Interstate 4. For a charming day trip, take SunRail from downtown Orlando or Winter Park. Fly into Orlando Sanford International Airport, or hop aboard the Amtrak Auto Train, which disembarks in Sanford, and enjoy room rates that are substantially less than Orlando hotels. For information call 800.800.7832 or 407.665.2900. or visit www.DoOrlandoNorth.com. WHERET RAV EL ER ® G UEST B OOK
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THE GUIDE FROM SWIMMING WITH DOLPHINS TO SWINGING A GOLF CLUB, FROM THEME PARK THRILLS TO FINE DINING, ORLANDO OFFERS INCREDIBLE MEMORY-MAKING OPPORTUNITIES. EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS—AND ENJOY.
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THE GUIDE DINING DISNEY AREA CAPA Spanish. This 17th-floor rooftop steakhouse and bar offers cuisine with a Spanish twist. The restaurant features an open kitchen, wood-burning grill and outdoor seating for views of Disney fireworks. D (nightly). Four Seasons, 10100 Dream Tree Blvd., 407.313.7777. www.fourseasons.com/orlando IL MULINO NEW YORK TRATTORIA Italian. This authentic Italian eatery offers dishes from the Abruzzi region. Free daycare provided. D (nightly). Swan and Dolphin Resort, 1200 Epcot Resorts Blvd., 407.934.1609. www.swandolphin.com JALEO Spanish. Renowned Chef (and culinary humanitarian) José Andrés has brought the talents of his culinary team to town, and the results are mouthwatering. The restaurant is purely Spanish—timeless dishes given a modern twist. Disney Springs, 321.348.3211. www.jaleo.com
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JIKO—THE COOKING PLACE African. See giraffes and zebras before you dine. Enjoy authentic African cuisine and rare wines. D (nightly). Animal Kingdom Lodge, 2901 Osceola Parkway, 407.939.1947. www.disneyworld.disney.go.com RAGLAN ROAD IRISH PUB AND RESTAURANT Irish. The good times roll with music, dancing and dazzling culinary creations from Chef Mark O’Neill. The beer choices are extensive,
including signature draughts made just for Raglan Road. L, D (daily) Br (weekends.) Disney Springs, 1640 E. Buena Vista Drive, 407.938.0300 www.raglanroadirishpub.com SHULA’S STEAK HOUSE Steak. Custom Angus steaks combined with their aging process make up an award-winning “Shula Cut.” Some free child care provided. D (nightly). Swan and Dolphin Resort, 1500 Epcot Resorts Blvd., 407.934.1362. www.swandolphinrestaurants.com
DOWNTOWN BOHEME RESTAURANT New American. This elegant downtown restaurant boasts a fabulous art collection along with a prestigious AAA Four-Diamond rating. B, L, D (daily), Br (Su). The Grand Bohemian, 325 S. Orange Ave., 407.313.9000. www.grandbohemianhotel.com
INTERNATIONAL DRIVE JACK’S PLACE Steak/Seafood. Steak, seafood and regional dishes are served in an intimate dining room among Orlando’s largest collection of celebrity-autographed caricatures. Get your caricature done for free on F and Sa nights. Complimentary valet. D (nightly). The Rosen Plaza Hotel, 9700 International Drive, 407.996.1787. www.jacksplacerestaurant.com A LAND REMEMBERED Steak. Old Florida charm abounds with artifacts and photos from the state’s past. D (daily). Rosen Shingle Creek, 9939 Universal Blvd., 407.996.3663. www.landrememberedrestaurant.com
H STARRED LISTINGS ARE FEATURED GUESTBOOK ADVERTISERS.
TAVERNA OPA Greek. This I-Drive mainstay captured the Greek and Late-Night Dining categories among readers in our latest dining poll. It’s a fun spot—there’s lively music, belly dancing, dancing among diners and napkin-throwing. But Taverna also pays attention to the menu, with selections like branzino (the European sea bass), slow-roasted lamb, Nisiotiko (“the Greek paella’’), and moussaka. L, D (daily). 9101 International Drive, 407.351.8660. www.opaorlando.com THAI THANI Thai. Choose from assorted curries made with spicy chilies and coconut milk, ginger-laced stir fries, fresh spring rolls and seafood specialties. The atmosphere is colorful and festive. L, D (daily). 11025 International Drive, 407.239.9733. www.thaithani.net
SAND LAKE ROAD H BIG FIN SEAFOOD KITCHEN Seafood. Located on Restaurant Row in the Dr. Phillips area, this locally-owned and operated spot offers the freshest seafood presented in both classic and innovative ways. D (daily). 8046 Via Dellagio Way, 407.615.8888. bigfinseafood.com
SOUTH HEMISPHERE RESTAURANT Creative/Contemporary. Enjoy fine dining from the ninth-floor location with runway views. Locally sourced and organic options are on the menu. B, D (daily). Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport, 9300 Jeff Fuqua Blvd., 407.825.1234. www.hemisphereorlando.com
UNIVERSAL/CITY WALK BUBBA GUMP Southern. Located at Universal’s CityWalk, Bubba Gump is an excellent family dining experience. Try one of the many shrimp dishes, try on the plaster casts of Forrest’s running shoes and delight in the Southern hospitality. Free valet. L, D (daily). 6000 Universal Blvd., 407.903.0044. www.bubbagump.com THE PALM RESTAURANT Steak. Located in the Hard Rock Hotel, this legendary steak house boasts aged steaks, jumbo Nova Scotia lobster, and classic Italian specialties. D (daily). 5800 Universal Blvd., 407.503.7256. www.thepalm.com
WINTER PARK PRATO Italian. From Chef Brandon McGlamery comes Prato, a trendy, communal spot with inventive offerings like mustard spaghettini, duck breast with pancetta and braised cabbage, filet mignon marsala, and some of the best pizzas around. 124 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407.262.0050. www.prato-wp.com THE RAVENOUS PIG American. Chefs Julie and James Petrakis, both Orlando-area natives who trained at the Culinary Institute of America, showcase the “gastropub” phenomenon with an ever-changing menu. L, D (daily). 565 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park 407.628.2333. www.theravenouspig.com
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THE GUIDE IVANHOE H RUSSELL'S ON LAKE IVANHOE American. With commanding views of Lake Ivanhoe and comfortable, chic surroundings, Russell’s offers upscale casual dining with an innovative and fresh menu. Happy hour offers small plates and drink specials; weekend brunch dazzles with a fresh array and breakfast and lunch specialties as well as bottomless mimosas and sangria. D (daily). 1414 N. Orange Ave., Orlando, 407.601.3508. www.russellsorlando.com
GROCERY H PUBLIX Shop for groceries, beauty and personal care products, liquor and beer, baby products and more. Get your groceries delivered to the resort of your choice in as little as an hour. Powered by instacart. www.publix.com/resortdelivery
ATTRACTIONS & MUSEUMS ART GALLERIES CITYARTS FACTORY The area’s largest collective of art galleries, showcasing local and international works of art, rotated monthly. Free admission Tu-Sa. Be sure to check out Third Thursdays. 39 S. Magnolia Ave., 407.648.7060. www.downtownorlando.com
ATTRACTIONS CENTRAL FLORIDA ZOO & BOTANICAL GARDENS See more than 400 animals, feed the giraffes, admire the big cats or take a ride on the train. Little ones will also enjoy a tropical splash pad open yearround, a playground and a petting 46
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zoo. Open daily. 3755 NW. US Hwy. 17-92, Sanford, 407.323.4450. www.centralfloridazoo.org REVOLUTION OFF ROAD Learn to ride an ATV, gear up for bass fishing or tool around on dune buggies and 4x4s. 4000 State Road 33, Clermont, 352.400.1322. www.revolutionoffroad.com
BEYOND ORLANDO BOK TOWER GARDENS Features Olmsted-designed landscaped gardens crowned with a majestic bell tower that plays music by the hour. Open daily and holidays. 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales, 863.676.1408. www.boktowergardens.org
MUSEUMS MENNELLO MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART This beautiful lakefront facility is home to sculpture gardens and a permanent collection of paintings by American Primitive artist Earl Cunningham and other traditional and contemporary artists. Closed M. 900 E. Princeton St., Loch Haven Cultural Park, 407.246.4278. www.mennellomuseum.org H MORSE MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART Featuring the world’s most comprehensive collection of work by Louis Comfort Tiffany, including his 1893 chapel interior and art and architectural elements from his Long Island estate, Laurelton Hall. Exhibits include late-19th- and early-20th-century American pottery, paintings and decorative art. Stop by the gift store for pieces inspired
by the arts and crafts movement. 445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407.645.5311. www.morsemuseum.org ORANGE COUNTY REGIONAL HISTORY CENTER Central Florida’s storyteller since 1942. Journey through the region’s transition from Indian settlement to small citrus and cattle town to today’s worldwide destination. 65 E. Central Blvd., 407.836.8500. www.thehistorycenter.org ORLANDO MUSEUM OF ART With permanent collections of American art, African art and works of the ancient Americas, the museum also hosts prominent traveling exhibitions. Loch Haven Cultural Park, 2416 N. Mills Ave., 407.896.4231. www.omart.org ORLANDO SCIENCE CENTER Themed exhibits teach while they entertain. The center also features an observatory. Open daily. Loch Haven Cultural Park, 777 E. Princeton St., 407.514.2000. www.osc.org
NORTH ORLANDO H WEKIVA ISLAND Offering kayak, canoe and paddle board rentals and a boat launch, Wekiva Island is a favorite gathering spot on the river. Enjoy an outdoor and indoor bar, river-banas, fire pit area and boardwalk. 1014 Miami Springs Drive, Longwood, 407.862.1500. www.wekivaisland.com
PARKS & GARDENS HARRY P. LEU GARDENS This 50-acre botanical garden is a maze bursting with color and green-
ery including one of the Southeast's largest collection of camellias. 1920 N. Forest Ave., 407.246.2620. www.leugardens.org
PERFORMING ARTS AMWAY CENTER Home to the Orlando Magic basketball team, this venue also plays host to major shows and concerts. 400 W. Church St., 407.440.7900. www.amwaycenter.com ORLANDO SHAKES This full-season professional theater includes the works of William Shakespeare and other classics, holiday comedies and a series of plays for young audiences. Loch Haven Cultural Park, Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St., 407.447.1700. www.orlandoshakes.org WINTER PARK PLAYHOUSE This professional musical theater presents upbeat musical comedies and revues from Broadway and a monthly, New York-style cabaret. 711 N. Orange Ave., Winter Park, 407.645.0145. www.winterparkplayhouse.org
THEME PARKS LEGOLAND FLORIDA Built especially for kids, this 150-acre theme park offers more than 50 rides, shows and attractions. One Legoland Way, Winter Haven, 877.350.5346. www.legoland.com/florida SEAWORLD Immerse yourself in the sea, from up-close animal encounters to awe-inspiring performances to thrilling rides. 7007 SeaWorld Drive, 407.545.5550. www.seaworldorlando.com
H STARRED LISTINGS ARE FEATURED GUESTBOOK ADVERTISERS.
THE GUIDE UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT Be part of the Hollywood experience at major theme parks Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and Volcano Bay. Don't miss The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. 6000 Universal Blvd., 407.363.8000. www.universalorlando.com WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT Combining theme parks Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom, plus shopping and dining at Disney Springs. Lake Buena Vista, 407.939.5277. www.disneyworld.disney.go.com
tiful Winter Park. Rides daily from 10 am to 4 pm, cash or checks only. 312 E. Morse Blvd., Winter Park, 407.644.4056. www.scenicboattours.com
VISITOR INFORMATION H SEMINOLE COUNTY TOURISM Home to affluent Lake Mary, pristine rivers and scenic trails, Seminole County is a short drive from Orlando. Enjoy outdoor adventures on the lake, shopping and fine dining. 1055 AAA Drive, Suite 148, Heathrow, 800.800.7832. www.visitseminole.com
TOURS
WATER PARKS
THE BLACK HAMMOCK Take an airboat ride across Lake Jessup, home to Central Florida’s largest alligator population. Visit the scenic bird island to spot waterfowl, bald eagles and wild boars. Enjoy dining in the full-service restaurant. 2316 Black Hammock Fish Camp Road, Oviedo, 407.807.6623. www.theblackhammock.com
SEAWORLD’S AQUATICA Enjoy the serene to the wild, with white, sandy beaches, up-close animal experiences, lush landscaping and thrilling rides. Try the new Ihu’s Breakaway Falls, an 80-foot slide with four, 360-degree turns. 5800 Water Play Way, 407.545.5550. www.aquaticabyseaworld.com
BOGGY CREEK AIRBOAT ADVENTURES Spot exotic birds, turtles and alligators in their natural environment while zooming on an airboat. 2001 E. Southport Road, Kissimmee, 407.344.9550. www.bcairboats.com KISSIMMEE SWAMP TOURS Enjoy an exciting, 60- or 90-minute tour through the headwaters of the Florida Everglades. Open daily. 4500 Joe Overstreet Road, Kenansville, 407.436.1059. www.kissimmeeswamptours.com WINTER PARK SCENIC BOAT TOUR Relax on this one-hour narrated tour through the lakes and canals of beau-
WALT DISNEY WORLD, BLIZZARD BEACH Chill at the wave pool, ride the chair lift to the top of the mountain, or catch a thrill on Summit Plummet. Walt Disney World Resort, 1534 W. Buena Vista Drive, 407.939.7812. www.disneyworld.disney.go.com WALT DISNEY WORLD, TYPHOON LAGOON Float along a lazy river, ride a water coaster, plunge down nine water slides and take on one of the world’s largest artificially created waves. 1145 E. Buena Vista Drive, 407.824.4321. www.disneyworld.disney.go.com
H STARRED LISTINGS ARE FEATURED GUESTBOOK ADVERTISERS.
SHOPPING GIFTS & SOUVENIRS H CORONA CIGAR CO. The bar and store locations are actually 4,600-square-foot-plus humidors. Open daily. 7792 W. Sand Lake Road, 407.248.1212 127 S. Orange Ave., 407.404.5344 1130 TownPark Ave., Lake Mary, 407.333.3453. www.coronacigar.com 407.554.3105. www.driftwoodmarket.net.
SHOES
Rocky, Justin, Sterling River and more. Styles include work, hiking, fashion, motorcycle, Western and more. 5490 International Drive, 407.903.0317. www.twofreeboots.com
JEWELRY & WATCHES NA HOKU Na Hoku captures the essence of Hawaiian lifestyle and tradition in its collection of fine jewelry. Disney Springs, 1676 E. Buena Vista Drive, 407.560.0630. www.nahoku.com
H BOOT FACTORY OUTLET This This Nashville outpost offers two free pairs with the purchase of one on national brands such as
s t o o B Always
BUY 1 PAIR GET TWO PAIR
FREE
WESTERN • WORK • FASHION • HIKING • BIKER
5490 INTERNATIONAL DR. ORLANDO, FL 32819
407.903.0317 WWW.TWOFREEBOOTS.COM
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The Future, Today
Perhaps more than any other Disney park, EPCOT celebrates the Walt Disney as a visionary. Originally conceived as the future of city planning, the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow opened to guests in 1982, and continues to evolve. To celebrate the resort’s 50th anniversary, both Spaceship Earth and the resort’s monorails now sport new lighting details. 48
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COURTESY WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT, DAVID ROARK, PHOTOGRAPHER
PARTING SHOT
Groceries brought to you. Key lime pie. Fried chicken. Custom Deli subs. Delivered wherever you are. publix.com/shop
Prices vary from in-store. Fees, tips & taxes may apply. Subject to terms & availability.
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