Our Favourite Hidden Gems in Orlando

The magic of Orlando is set in a world where ‘dreams come true’, and our dreams certainly did come true the moment we found our way to Winter Park, and nestled in for a weekend of rest and relaxation. Magic is found in the cobblestone streets of Winter Park; inviting you to explore unparalleled dining experiences, historical influences and marvelous moments on the water. Here we take you on a journey through the hidden gems found on a weekend getaway in one of our new favourite places in Florida. 

Our Stay at The Alfond Inn

Our journey in Orlando began in Winter Park at the luxurious boutique hotel, The Alfond Inn. The hotel is one of the best kept secrets in Florida, as it’s filled with rich history and lavish artwork that adds to the elegance of the space. The lavish lobby leads to a stunning conservatory, lovely lounge areas, their decadent restaurant, and cascades out into a beautifully designed courtyard filled with all of the natural wonders of a warm climate. 

Each thoughtfully crafted hotel room is home to contemporary furniture, the most luxurious pillowtop mattresses, cascading views of the property and a marble bathroom with a walk in shower and plush amenities. Enjoy complimentary Keurig coffee on your balcony every morning as you watch the sunrise and feel into the sheer bliss of the space.  

The Alfond Inn’s new spa is designed for you to elevate your wellness routine. Enjoy an afternoon at The Spa at The Alfond Inn to release stress, and find grace as you enjoy one (or all!) of their impeccably crafted treatments designed for you to breathe into the quiet calm that resides within you.

Hamilton’s Kitchen, The Alfond’s Inn restaurant, is where the chefs pride themselves on creating traditional Southern dishes with a modern twist. The expansive restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating and is home to some of the most distinct Central Florida culinary experiences fusing local ingredients with the rustic, open-table charm of the place. 

Adventures Across our Favourite Neighbourhoods

Winter Park

Winter Park is rooted in its rich artistic history. From strolling through Rollins College, one of the most prestigious art schools, to exploring their museums and galleries, Winter Park is a place where artists flock to become inspired.

If you’re keen on getting swept up in elaborate art, we invite you to visit The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art and immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of colour and light, exploring the world’s most comprehensive collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany. The Museum is home to all the magic that is the Tiffany brand, handcrafted pottery and American art.

Wow. That’s one word to describe all that is the magic of AVA MediterrAegean. This beautifully designed restaurant, in the heart of Winter Park, transports you into a multi-sensory experience where the most delicious Mediterranean food is paired with an elegant seabreeze atmosphere that transports us all on a journey of the senses. As you immerse yourself in this dining experience, you will feel as if you’ve landed in Greece for the evening, and know it’s the best feeling ever.

One of our favourite moments in Winter Park was our time out on the water on our Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour. This hour-long guided cruise takes you through the lakes and canals of Winter Park. Rooted in history, our guide shared with us how the area was founded and the story of the homes built around the lakes. This lazy cruise was simply one for the storybooks.

Mills 50 District

The Mills 50 District is home to the largest Vietnamese American community in Florida. Stroll through this district and be welcomed with open arms into the authentic side of Asian cuisines, shops and markets. 

Transport yourself to Lao and embark on a culinary street food experience for less than $5 a plate. The moment our dishes arrived in front of us at Sticky Rice, we understood who this casual restaurant is, a MICHELIN Guide Recommended restaurant. The flavours of each dish were met with wide eyes of wonder as to how one dish can explode with so many unique flavours. 

Ivanhoe Village

Anchored by Lake Ivanhoe, Ivanhoe Village is located North of downtown Orlando (about a 20-minute drive from The Alfond Inn), and is home to cultural venues, acclaimed restaurants, and lakefront shopping.

Craft beer lovers, Ivanhoe Village has something special for you! Find yourself settling into a seat at Ivanhoe Park Brewing Co. to learn all about their fermentation process and taste some of the best beer in town. From their ‘Joyland’ American IPA to their ‘Park Hopp’r’ Golden Pilsner, trust us when we say you’ll never want to leave this brewery. 

Overlooking Lake Ivanhoe, The Pinery is nestled amongst its beautiful surroundings and rich agricultural history to create a really special dining experience. Stepped in southern hospitality, this forward-thinking restaurant is home to modern aesthetics and seasonal menus that are thoughtfully curated by Chef Naomi Freeman. Watch the sunsets as you’re presented with a taste of the tropics. 

Spend your days strolling through the village and partaking in some of the Indie-inspired outdoor activities and adventures that await you here.

Hidden Gems across Orlando

HighT Orlando

Bring a little magic into your day while journeying into Alice in Wonderland’s mystical space at HighT Orlando’s newest High Team Room and Nighttime Speakeasy. The space is decked out in all things mystical and provides guests with unique high tea experiences (think the best cookies and cute tea sandwiches to the greatest tea ever) that will charm anyone who walks through their doors.

If you’re into the arts as much as we are, check out Timucua Arts Foundation concert hall located in Orlando’s SoDo District. We spent the afternoon watching a unique concert, and it was certainly an afternoon to remember!

As we said goodbye to Orlando and headed to Miami, we hitched a ride on the Brightline to travel in style on a new modern, eco-friendly, intercity rail. We highly recommend traveling this way to arrive in your new destination, as it makes all the fuss of travelling around Florida a breeze.