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 gira es, 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 of the state’s most beautiful and unique landscapes. Paddlers will also find their paradise here. Wekiwa Springs State Park o ers 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 o er 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,

(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 o er 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 Tru e originated as a pop-up restaurant; the spot’s success

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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 o ered. 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 co ee and a hearty sandwich at Zaza or share delectable Spanish tapas at the ever-popular Santiago’s Bodega. Sanford o ers 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. 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.

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.