Posts Tagged “Central Florida Attractions”
Bok Gardens ~ Year-Round Beauty!
Bok Tower and Gardens ~ National Register of Historic Places
Bok Tower Gardens is a 50-acre garden located in Lake Wales, Florida. It’s perfectly positioned on Iron Mountain within the Lake Wales Ridge, one of the highest elevations in peninsular Florida. Rising 295 feet above sea level, for me it’s the most peaceful place in all of Central Florida. As a Florida resident looking to take a break from the craziness of Orlando’s theme parks and myriad of other touristy places, Bok Tower Gardens provides a place of solitude, and seemingly shelters me from the over-crowded venues synonymous with the Sunshine State. Even when the parking lot is full, I feel like I’m all alone; just me nestled amongst nature’s finest.
Bok Tower Gardens has been inspiring locals and visitors for the past 88 years! It was established almost 9 decades ago by Edward W. Bok as a gift to the American people. Mr. Bok spared no expense in creating this garden oasis, hiring famous landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr. as the designer. After 5+ years in construction, Bok Gardens was dedicated on February 1, 1929, by President Calvin Coolidge. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1993. The history of Bok Tower Gardens is truly fascinating!
FUN FACT:
Edward W. Bok was the editor of the women’s magazine Ladies Home Journal!
National Register of Historic Places
Entrance to Bok Tower Gardens
Bok Tower Gardens ~ 7 Distinct Areas
Bok Tower Gardens consists of 7 distinct focal points:
- Olmsted Landscape Gardens
- Wild Garden
- Singing Tower
- Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden
- Edible Garden & Outdoor Kitchen
- Pine Ridge Nature Preserve
- Pinewood Estate & Gardens
Each one is unique and provides for leisurely strolls, enlightening moments, or engaging activities. There are a multitude of meandering paths and strategically placed benches perfect for reading, journaling, reflecting, meditation, or praying. The informal woodland setting is also a haven for bird-watchers, butterfly fanatics, nature lovers, and photographers. Keep your camera handy — in addition to songbirds, wildlife may include turkeys, raptors, lizards, or the rare gopher tortoise listed as “threatened” and thereby protected under Florida State law.
If you plan on thoroughly investigating all 7 areas in one day, it’s a good idea to arrive when they open at 8 a.m. Pack a picnic lunch or stop by the Blue Palmetto Cafe, their on-site spot for breakfast, lunch, and snacks. (You have got to try the Beer-batterd French Fries! They were even better than my beloved Sweet Potato Fries.) Here’s a peek at the Blue Palmetto Cafe menu and prices.
Begin your visit at the Visitor’s Center & Museum with a brief orientation film. Here, you can also learn about the history of the Gardens and view changing art exhibits. Be sure to pick up a brochure with photos of some of the plants that will be blooming during your visit; these change on a monthly basis. Additionally, there is a table right outside the Visitor’s Center with a sampling of what’s currently in bloom. Take a look, and then see how many you can locate! Save some time to explore the Tower & Garden Gift Shop with unique treasures (and a live plant shop for your own garden) to commemorate your visit.
Bok Tower Gardens is open 365 days a year, from 8 – 6. Visit their website at boktowergardens.org for visitor guidelines and frequently asked questions.
Flowers That Are Currently Blooming
Lunch at the Blue Palmetto Cafe
Lunch at the Blue Palmetto Cafe
Tower & Garden Gift Shop
Bok Tower Gardens ~ Colorful Creations 365 Days a Year!
Regardless of which month you visit Bok Tower Gardens you’ll find a variety of flowers and plants in bloom. That’s the beauty of having a botanical garden right in the middle of the Sunshine State! During every season (and yes, Florida has them!) color abounds. For example, when I went in December there was Plumbago, Tropical Gardenia, Chinese Hat, Popcorn Senna, Beautyberry, Brazilian Red Cloak, and Camellias, just to name a few. The citrus trees were at the height of their growing season, and poinsettias were everywhere. And the mansion at Pinewood Estate was decked out in all its holiday splendor. Christmastime is truly one of my favorite times at Bok Tower Gardens.
Bok Gardens Bromeliad Tree at Christmastime
Outstanding Colorful Blooms in December at Bok Gardens
Orange Trees at Bok Gardens During December
Poinsettias are Everywhere During the Holidays at Bok Gardens
Mansion at Christmas ~ Pinewood Estate
Bok Gardens in February
My most recent visit was a few days ago in February. I didn’t expect to see much midway through winter, but Mother Nature proved me wrong. The Gardens were remarkable! Sensational Snapdragons were blooming in a variety of bright colors and ranged in height from dwarf to medium to tall. Their showy slender stalks appeared throughout the Gardens, from potted containers at the entrance to Pinewood Estate, and places in-between.
And speaking of “showy,” the Camellias were the crème de la crème! They were found in various sections and provided breathtaking eye-candy for anyone with a passion for botanical beauty. The red, white, and pink flowers (oftentimes mistaken for a rose) were in full bloom during my February visit. Bird of Paradise, one of my all-time favorite tropical flowers, were also blooming. The Azaleas… oh my goodness, those Azaleas! Even though they’re quite common compared to a lot of the offerings here, were extraordinarily beautiful. It seemed like there were acres of them, in so many varieties — such as Amelia Rose, Gloria, Mardi Gras, Southern Charm, Kissimmee, Edward Bok, and Eugenie.
Stunning Snapdragons at Bok Gardens
“Pretty in Pink” Aster at Bok Gardens in Lake Wales
Beautiful Bromeliad Blooms in Winter
Red Plumes at Pinewood Estate
Colorful Cacti & Potted Plants at Bok Gardens
Pinewood Estate ~ Mediterranean Revival Architecture
A trip to Bok Tower Gardens is not complete without a leisurely stroll around the grounds of Pinewood Estate. The enchanting 20-room mansion is Mediterranean Revival Architecture, and just under 13,000 square feet. This area is comprised of nearly 8 acres and was built in the early 1930s for Charles Austin Buck, the vice president of Bethlehem Steel. “El Retiro” was the original name, which means “retreat” in Spanish. I purchased a book with the history of Pinewood Estate and Bok Tower Gardens in the gift shop, which I highly recommend. It was fascinating!
General Admission to the Gardens is $14, and a combo ticket that includes the Pinewood Estate tour is $20. It’s well worth the $6 up-charge which includes the home’s history, and docents are available throughout the mansion to answer questions about the Estate and its furnishings. Even if you don’t purchase the interior tour of the mansion, do yourself a favor and peruse the immaculate grounds. You’ll be able to see the formal Mediterranean-style garden, the Spanish frog fountain, an enchanting stone grotto at the front of the house, an Oriental moon gate fountain, and an English-style country garden with a rolling lawn and reflective pond.
Pinewood Estate at Bok Gardens, Lake Wales Florida
Grounds of Pinewood Estate, Lake Wales Florida
Latin Influences at Pinewood Estate ~ Colorful Tiles
Pinewood Estate Mansion and Gardens
Oriental Moon Gate Fountain and Gardens at Pinewood Estate
Pinewood Estate in February
Pinewood Estate Mansion with Colorful February Blooms
Bamboo and Palms at Pinewood Estate Mansion, Bok Gardens
The Singing Tower at Bok Gardens
Towering 205 feet above the Gardens is the neo-Gothic Singing Tower. It houses one of the world’s finest carillons with 60 bells. The Art Deco style is made up of stone native to the Southeast, ironwork, tile mosaics, and the infamous sun dial and brass door. Unfortunately, few people will get to tour the inside of the Singing Tower and see what’s behind the brass door. To receive a private tour invitation you must hold a Sustainer Level Membership or above. Even so, the outside of the Tower is worth seeing; it was awarded the grand prize for design in 1930 by the American Institute of Architects. Carillon concerts occur at 1 & 3 p.m. daily. They can usually be heard almost anywhere on the grounds of the Gardens.
The carillon musical instrument was designed and built in England, in 1928. There are only 4 in Florida and 600 worldwide. Bok Tower Gardens will be hosting the 23rd International Carillon Festival March 4-12. Daily concerts and special events will be performed by world-renowned carillonneurs. This world-famous music festival only happens twice every 5 years!
The Singing Tower at Bok Gardens, Lake Wales Florida
The Singing Tower Collage
Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden ~ New at Bok Tower Gardens
One of the new additions to Bok Tower Gardens is the children’s play area called Hammock Hollow. What a fantastic idea! Young children are generally not as interested or impressed by botanical gardens as adults are, therefore, this add-on was a win-win for everyone in the family. Mom and Dad no longer have to fight with the little ones to go to the Gardens. In fact, with an activities area like this one, the only battle will be getting the kids to leave.
At 2.7 acres it’s much larger than I envisioned. The children can enter through the pint-sized keystone gate, where the adventure begins. There are rocks to climb (careful… you may get wet!), a gigantic spiderweb to maneuver, logs to climb, a painting area for the next Van Gogh to be discovered, sand play area complete with sand pails and water, a stick stack for building forts and other structures, a chickee hut with an outdoor kitchen, frog hop for jumpers, acoustic musical instruments, bird feeding stations, and lots more. There’s a decent amount of shady areas to escape the hot Florida sun with places to rest and cool down; rope hammocks, secret nap benches, fountains, spray jets, misters, and foggers. You can read Florida Fun And Fork’s complete review of Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden here.
***Note: This is not a babysitting service. The children must be supervised at all times.
Hammock Hollow Keystone Entry for Children’s Play Area at Bok Gardens
Children’s Play Areas at Bok Gardens
Children’s Painting Area at Hammock Hollow
Edible Garden and Outdoor Kitchen ~ New to Bok Tower Gardens
Another upgrade to Bok Tower Gardens is the addition of an Edible Garden & Outdoor Kitchen. Developed by the University of Florida and other growers, it features fruits, herbs, and vegetables. Of course, the varieties planted are those well suited for Central Florida weather. This area hosts special events and culinary classes such as Grilling with a Twist, Sippin’ & Suppin’ Under the Stars with Celebrity Chefs, Kids in the Kitchen, Fermentation Festival, Craft Beer & Cuisine, and Brining & Pickling.
Outdoor Kitchen at Bok Tower Gardens
Edible Garden at Bok Tower Gardens
A Slice of Old Florida
Bok Tower Gardens gives me a sense of Old Florida — the way our great state used to be before scores of people discovered our little secret. It’s off-the-beaten-path, yet so easy to access from almost anywhere within Central Florida. I highly recommend this peaceful piece of paradise. And even though there’s been a noticeable increase in attendance since the new spaces have premiered, you won’t have tons of tourists stepping on your toes. The serenity is addictive.
A Slice of Old Florida at Bok Tower Gardens
An Old Florida Attraction at Bok Gardens , Lake Wales
Nature at its Best!
Gigantic Palm Leaf at Bok Gardens
Swan in the Reflecting Pond at Bok Tower Gardens
Bok Tower Gardens Membership and Reciprocal Program
If you’re in a geographical area that will allow you to return again and again, consider purchasing a Membership. With 11 different Membership Levels, there’s one that fits most budgets. Hubby and I purchased the “Duo” right before the price increase (we paid $55). But even at $70 for 2 people it’s a bargain. Not only do you get unlimited visits to Bok Tower Gardens and discounts at the Blue Palmetto Cafe and Tower Garden Gift Shop, it also includes a reciprocal admission program that allows free or greatly reduced entry prices for other select botanical gardens and museums in Florida and throughout the country.
For example, Harry P. Leu Gardens in Orlando offers free admission simply by showing your Bok Tower Gardens Membership Card (and photo ID). Here’s my Leu Gardens Review and Photo Tour from a recent visit. This is another gorgeous botanical garden and museum that is also on the National Register of Historic Places. Additionally, The Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Garden in Winter Park has free reciprocal admission. The sculptures in this outdoor sculpture garden are amazing! To me, if a facility is on the National Register, it’s usually worth seeing. In total, there are 47 botanical gardens and/or museums in the state of Florida alone that participate in this program.
You can check out the Membership Application for Bok Gardens on their website.
Bok Tower Gardens Map and Directions
ADDITIONAL READING FOR BOTANICAL ENTHUSIASTS
What do you get when you combine a passion for botanical beauty with America’s wealthiest families? You get 5 Florida Gardens with Rich Roots! It’s a fascinating article revealing the connection between the richest people in America and their winter homes here in Florida!
SPECIAL EVENT: EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE
WHERE: Bok Tower Gardens, 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853
WHEN: April 1, 2018, 7:00 am — Gate opens at 6:00 a.m
COST: Complimentary Admission until 8:00 a.m
In addition to an inspiring Easter message, enjoy a carillon performance by Geert D’hollander
For an additional fee a buffet breakfast will be served in the Blue Palmetto Café following the service
Have you been to Bok Tower Gardens? Please share your experience or any questions about this National Historic Landmark in the Comment box below!
Winter Park Food Tour
Winter Park Walking Food Tour
Need a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of Central Florida’s touristy attractions? As a long-time Florida resident I’m always searching for non-touristy ways to take a theme park break. So, I was delighted when I came across the Winter Park Walking Food Tour. It combines one of my favorite things (food), in one of my favorite cities (Winter Park)!
This was not my first Food Tour gig. In fact, my very first Florida Food Tour was in sensational St. Augustine. A few years ago, as part of my 25th Wedding Anniversary trip, my hubby and I did the Vittles and Vino VIP Carriage Tour. It remains one of the highest rated Food Tours in North Florida, and with good reason. It’s a 3 hour food and wine tasting extravaganza via horse drawn carriage! On a scale of 1 to 10, it was a 12! Obviously, the Winter Park Food Tour had to be outstanding to measure up to that experience. So, was it? Here’s my review…
Sweet Rachael, Our Tour Guide!
A Perfect Introduction to the History, Culture, & Architecture of Winter Park
Our tour began on picturesque Park Avenue. This famous street is well-known for its many unique specialty shops and beloved restaurants, most of which include a perfect-for-people-watching sidewalk cafe. That’s where we met our sweet tour guide, Rachael, and the other pleasant, like-minded people in our group.
***TIP… Since this is a walking Food Tour, you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes. For anyone with mobility challenges it’s important to know the Food Tour encompasses about 1.3 miles. It’s a fair amount of walking, but paced very well. It’s also a “rain or shine” event, so keep an eye on the weather forecast. An umbrella or rain gear may be in order during Florida’s rainy season.
Rachael allowed ample opportunity for each one of us to introduce ourselves. Some of us were locals, while others were out-of-town visitors to the Central Florida area. Rachael explained that interspersed throughout our 6 culinary stops would be interesting historical facts about Winter Park, its cultural heritage, and a glimpse of some amazing architectural building designs. (Awesome and amazing they were!) Even as a local, I didn’t realize Winter Park was so rich in history.
Mr. Loring Chase, who visited Florida in 1881, is accredited as Winter Park’s founder. He was a Chicago businessman who suffered from chronic bronchitis and was urged by his doctor to winter in a warm climate. Certainly, his pain was our gain! You’ll learn that this beautiful little town has gained quite a reputation as an art and literary community. Did you know that Winter Park houses the world’s largest collection of Tiffany glass? If time allows, you can visit the Morse Museum of American Art to see it. (You can read my review here.) On the Food Tour you’ll pass right by the museum. Your tour guide may also mention the beautiful sculptures at the Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens. (Here’s a review and photo tour of this incredible place!)
The Morse Museum – Largest Collection of Tiffany Glass
Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens
The Parkview — Our 1st Stop
Located at 136 S. Park Avenue, The Parkview is so much more than the advertised label of “Wine Bar.” The food was fantastic. They specialize in tapas-sized light bites, flatbreads, and crostini’s but also have a few entree items on the menu. We had the Buffalo Mozzarella Crostini. So good! It included Buffalo Mozzarella, Heirloom Tomatoes, Local Micro Basil, Balsamic Pearls, and Pesto. A few Micro Greens were also served on the side. It was my favorite food item on the Tour. The Parkview is also known for its boutique wines and craft beer but we were served a Mimosa Cocktail.
***TIP… For non-alcoholic drinkers like myself, all of our stops offered a non-alcoholic alternative beverage. Be sure to tell your tour guide beforehand, and they will arrange for a substitute with the vendors.
Our Great Group of Foodies at The Parkview!
Buffalo Mozzarella Crostini
The Ancient Olive — An Introduction to Olive Oil Tasting
A short stroll from The Parkview was our second stop, The Ancient Olive. It’s located just off Park Avenue in one of Winter Park’s most picturesque settings called The Hidden Garden. This charming little courtyard is home to some very unique shops and several restaurants. The area has an entirely different feel from the high-energy vibe and distractions of Park Avenue. Genuinely peaceful; I love to linger by the soothing fountain. The atmosphere in this little hide-a-way is ideal for the incurable romanticist.
What a perfect place then for a new kind of tasting bar. No, it’s not wine or beer. This tasting room features more than 55 flavored extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars. The oils are imported from Australia, Tunisia, Greece, Spain, and Italy. It was an epicurean adventure that I hadn’t embarked upon previously. Did you know there’s a proper technique for tasting olive oil? I didn’t. But much like wine tasting, olive oil tasting is a special skill. During our mini-workshop at The Ancient Olive I learned that it’s very much a sensory experience. Here’s my condensed version of it:
- Pour a little bit of olive oil into a small wineglass
- Cup the glass in one hand and cover it with the other to trap the aromas inside
- Hold it for a minute or two in order to warm it
- Swirl it, then stick your nose into the glass and take a good whiff of the aroma
- Take a generous sip of the oil, sucking air through the oil to coax more aromas out of it
- Close your mouth and breathe out through your nose
- Now swallow some, or all of the oil
- Expect it to be fruity, pungent, or bitter
- Repeat. The traditional palate cleanser between olive oils is water (plain or sparkling) and slices of Granny Smith apple
Our olive oil tasting was both fun and educational. Various specialty food samples were also provided — Spanish olives, French mustards, award-winning preserves, and dry-cured sausages. Afterwards, we had ample time to browse additional gourmet items in the shop. Hubby and I did a little Christmas shopping and picked up our bags after the Food Tour ended.
***Here’s a short 2-minute video clip of The Ancient Olive on their website.
The Ancient Olive
Our Tasting Instructor
Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar Tasting Bar
Gourmet Goodies from The Ancient Olive – Yes, that’s a Football-shaped Summer Sausage
Casa Feliz — Old World Elegance
Our next stop was a history break at 656 N. Park Ave. The Robert Bruce Barbour House, more affectionately known as Casa Feliz is a restored Spanish farmhouse designed by architect James Gamble Rogers II. This Historic Home Museum is open to the public during limited hours, but is more often used as a popular wedding ceremony and reception venue. With its old-world romantic charm, this is the perfect place for a true fairytale wedding. Ironically, one of the couple’s in our group had recently been wed there!
Casa Feliz Historic Home & Venue
Casa Feliz Rear Courtyard
The Spice & Tea Exchange
Up next on the Winter Park Food Tour was The Spice & Tea Exchange located at 309 N. Park Ave. If you love exotic tea, spices, herbs, and unique flavors this is the place for you. Perhaps you’ve heard of this one-of-a-kind shopping experience, since the stores are franchised with 50+ nationwide. Florida has 13 locations.
Every now and then I like a little ‘comfort in a cup’ but I’m far from a tea aficionado. Since I rarely venture outside my comfort zone of Earl Grey or Chai, I didn’t approach this stop very enthusiastically. But, once again, it was an educational crash-course in the art of sipping and cooking with fine loose-leaf teas, spices, sea and mineral salts, and naturally flavored sugars. The good news, I learned, is that you don’t have to be a connoisseur of these oftentimes hard-to-find ingredients in order to cook with them. The staff was very friendly and quick to offer help, suggestions, or recipes.
We sampled Matcha Holiday Bark. It was outstanding! It’s a sweet and salty white chocolate bark with a slightly green color because of the Matcha tea. It was topped with Cypress White Sea Salt and Dried Cranberries. (Here’s the recipe.) Oh my, so good! But then came my biggest disappointment of the day… I couldn’t buy it! Nope. They only sell the ingredients, not the finished product. They offered the recipe card, but Christmas was fast approaching and there was no way I had time to make the bark. We also tasted a Pumpkin Spiced Soup which hubby didn’t like at all, and I thought it was just okay.
If you’re in need of a unique gift idea, especially for those who love to experiment in the kitchen, The Spice & Tea Exchange has a plethora of options. I picked up some pretty cool information here, but it was far from my favorite stop.
The Spice & Tea Exchange of Winter Park
Our Tasting Instructor
The Tea & Spice Exchange Interior
Braccia Pizzeria & Ristorante
Our culinary journey continued at Braccia Pizzeria & Ristorante. It’s located at 153 E. Morse Blvd., just a few steps off Park Avenue. The cuisine is kind of like a Brazil meets Italy thing. The pizzas at Braccia are authentic Brazilian, which are thin and crispy pies. The restaurant has a full menu, but only the pizza was included in our Food Tour. Our group was served 3 pizzas for the 12 of us. Initially, I thought that was somewhat of a small portion, but it turned out to be sufficient. Most of us were able to have 2 slices, thereby sampling 2 out of the 3 varieties. Since it’s not the traditional American version of pizza which tends to be heavier on the cheese and sauces sitting atop a lot more dough, this ultra-thin-crust style didn’t leave us with a ‘stuffed’ feeling. To me, it was almost like a flatbread with gourmet toppings.
Our pizzas were the Margherita, Arugula with Dried Tomato, and the Chicken with Catupiry (Catupiry is one of the most popular ‘soft cheese’ brands in Brazil). I tried the latter 2 flavors. I thought both were very good. Our group also had a glass of wine; red or white, it was their choice. I liked the atmosphere here. Braccia is a small unassuming little spot off the main drag, but I would definitely return. Since Park Avenue eateries tend to be more crowded, noisy, and expensive, Braccia is well worth a detour. The owners are well aware their location is not obvious to those strolling Park Avenue, so they usually have a representative standing on the corner of Park and Morse giving away pizza samples. The day we were there it was Brie with Apricot Pizza. I know, sounds more like dessert, right? It’s one of the highest priced on the menu — but it was surprisingly awesome! I’d order it in a heartbeat. I like the way they think outside of the box when it comes to pizza toppings. And really, to be a bone fide foodie, new experiences that broaden your culinary horizon are a requirement — not to mention we strongly dislike fussy eaters, (and most of our vacations revolve around food!).
***TIP… If you happen to be in Winter Park and just want dessert, Braccia is perfect. They have 3 sweet pizza choices; Banana with Cinnamon Pizza, Serenata de Amor Pizza (chocolate pizza), and Romeo and Juliet Pizza (white cheese and guava syrup). And, I’ve heard the Homemade Churros with Dulce de Leche dipping sauce are to die for!
Braccia Pizzeria & Ristorante Interior
Margherita Pizza at Braccia
Kilwins — Sweet in Every Sense Since 1947!
As with all progressive meals, we expect to have a sweet ending. Kilwins was the first of 2 dessert stops. It’s a franchised old-fashioned confectionery selling chocolates, ice cream, fudge, handmade sweets, and gift baskets. The location is 122 N. Park Avenue, which was precisely where our tour group originally met. From the moment I walked into the store my senses leaped with joy. I watched the handmade fudge being paddled to creamy perfection on a marble table, and the caramel apples and turtles in the dessert case were almost more than I could bear.
Our samples included 1 of their 32 flavors of ice cream and a piece of fudge. The ice cream was delicious, and while the fudge was tasty, it was a tad bit too soft and gooey for me (typically, I’m a fudge fanatic). I could tell by the very long lines that Kilwins is a popular Winter Park sweet spot. And, honestly, it’s almost impossible to walk by without going inside. You’ll catch a whiff of deliciousness a block away! Just follow your nose… it knows where to go! And don’t be shy about those “free samples,” the staff is just waiting for you to find a new favorite. Pricey? Sure, like most things on Park Avenue… but you’re worth it!
Kilwins Ice Cream and Fudge Tasting
Handmade Fudge Being Made on a Marble Table
Handmade Caramel Goodies!
Winter Park Sidewalk Art in Central Park
As we journeyed to our final food stop, we took a leisurely stroll through Winter Park’s famous “Central Park.” It’s an 11-acre park with a gorgeous peacock fountain (with a tear-jerking inspirational story behind it) and rose garden — the crown jewel of all the parks in that town. Many seasonal events and festivals are held here throughout the year. Rachael stopped long enough to give us a few more historical tidbits. Afterwards, we got to enjoy the incredible artistic ability and creativity of some Winter Park Middle School students. Their sidewalk art was brilliant!
Central Park Sidewalk Art in Winter Park
Central Park Sidewalk Art in Winter Park
Central Park Peacock Fountain and Rose Garden
Peterbrooke Chocolatier
Our final stop on the Food Tour was at Peterbrooke Chocolatier located at 300 S. Park Avenue. Peterbrooke is a franchise locally owned and operated by a husband and wife team who were friendly and helpful. We received a tasting of gourmet Chocolate Covered Popcorn that was simply out-of-this-world yummy (it’s the #1 best seller). I just love the combination of sweet and salty flavors; so addictive. Did you know that Peterbrooke’s Chocolate Covered Popcorn was discovered by accident? (Here’s a CNBC article about the sweet accident.)
If your New Year’s resolution is to eat more chocolate, then Peterbrooke is the place for you! If not, we all need a gift idea from time to time, and, let’s be honest… chocolate is the one gift that never gets returned! I truly enjoyed browsing their creative chocolate selections. Like, for example, the Chocolate High Heeled Shoe Collection for the fashion diva with a shoe fetish who can’t stuff one more pair in her closet. (They’ll even make custom edible labels to put inside the shoe.) Ingenious. Or maybe you need a special guy-gift. Not a problem. How about Chocolate-covered Bacon?
Peterbrooke also has a large selection of gelato. Feel free to ask for a sample. The 20+ flavors looked so good, but by now my sweet tooth had been satisfied. There’s no question, this was a sweet ending to a delightful afternoon in Winter Park.
Peterbrooke Chocolatier of Winter Park
Chocolate High-heeled Shoe
20 Gelato Flavors at Peterbrooke Chocolatier
In Conclusion…
The Winter Park Walking Food Tour was a pleasurable, educational, and delicious way to spend an afternoon. Overall it was great, but not quite excellent. When compared to other food tours I have done, it was lacking enough “real” food. By that, I mean I would have liked to see more restaurants participate rather than the olive oil and spice tastings, which were more of a “gift shop” experience. Don’t get me wrong, I had fun sipping and sampling in some locally loved places, but comparably speaking it just wasn’t 5-star.
I paid a highly discounted rate of $67.99 for 2 people. Certainly, the Winter Park Food Tour was worth that amount. At the $100+ full retail price I may have been disappointed. There was an ample amount of food and drink, and most of us were comfortably full at the end of the tour. It’s a great option for couples wanting a daytime date, girlfriend get-a-way kind of thing to re-connect, or friends and family that are visiting. However, authentic foodies may be less-than-impressed. So, pretty much it comes down to your expectations. I recommend this tour if you can pay less than retail. Bon appetite!
Winter Park Food Tour — How to Make a Reservation
Like most things these days, the Winter Park Food Tour can be conveniently booked online. Simply go to OrlandoFoodTours.com and click “Pick a Tour” on the homepage. Then click “Buy Tickets Now” under the Winter Park Walking Food Tour section to view a calendar of available dates in any given month. The Food Tours are generally offered on Saturdays and Sundays at 11:15am. There is a 12 person maximum for each Tour. The reservation system will reveal any “Sold Out” dates as well as how many tickets are still available on each date. The price for Adults is $47.00 plus tax and a small processing fee.
***TIP… Being the financially responsible person that I am (hubby calls me frugal), I rarely purchase anything online without a coupon code. I bought tickets through the website “Living Social” which was having a fantastic Cyber Monday sale. It was almost a 35% discount! The popular “Groupon” website also offers discounts up to 20% off on the Food Tour. (Take advantage of the reduced prices — you’ll want to do some shopping at some of the great gift shops on the Tour.)
If you book online like I did, there’s absolutely nothing to print, and no physical tickets are needed. You’ll receive a digital ticket via email. Upon arrival, simply show the email confirmation from your cell phone, along with photo ID. The email also contains information about parking and gives the location where your group will meet. The entire reservation process could not have been easier!
Have you been on the Winter Park Walking Food Tour? What was your experience? Or, perhaps you can share the name of your favorite food tour. Our faithful foodie followers would love to know! Simply reply in the comment section below.
Harry P. Leu Gardens – An ‘Old Florida’ Attraction
Leu Gardens — Vintage Florida!
As a 16-year Florida resident, I’m always searching for little hidden gems off-the-beaten-path from the hustle and bustle of Central Florida theme parks and other tourist-driven attractions. Amazingly, I’ve found one in the most unexpected place… 2 miles from downtown Orlando! So close to ‘the Mouse’ and his house at Walt Disney World, yet a million miles away (at least that’s what it seemed like to me). Don’t get me wrong, I’m one of Mickey’s fondest fans, but every now and then I crave some of God’s handiwork more than man-made Disney magic. The Harry P. Leu Gardens satisfied my appetite for an authentic “Old Florida” respite. They have perfectly preserved the beauty, culture, history, and environment of vintage Florida.
Harry P. Leu Gardens – Celebrating 55 Years!
Harry P. Leu Gardens — Celebrating 55 Years!
In 1961, 55 years ago, the City of Orlando was given a grandiose gift. Harry Leu and his wife Mary Jane donated their home and gardens to the “City Beautiful.” The restored 19th century home has become the historic Leu House Museum and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The botanical gardens contain nearly 50 acres of cultivated tropical and semi-tropical plant collections from around the world, thanks to the extensive international travels of Mr. and Mrs. Leu. [Of course, that was prior to governmental regulations that restrict bringing certain agricultural products into the United States.] Their passion for horticulture is what transformed their estate into the botanical oasis that we enjoy today.
Leu Gardens — 14 Dedicated Areas
Leu Gardens is strategically divided into 14 different areas to better appreciate the offerings. Interpretive signs, QR Codes, and plant labels can be found throughout the gardens. I did, however, think the signage could have been better. Even with a map, my hubby and I found the navigational aides to be sparse for such a vast property. Although, we did encounter several staff members in golf carts who were more than willing to help with directions and any questions we had.
Following is a listing of the 14 dedicated areas within Leu gardens:
- Garden House Welcome Center
- Tropical Stream Garden
- Idea Garden
- Herb Garden
- Butterfly Garden
- Vegetable Garden
- Rose Garden
- Color Garden
- Leu House Museum
- Palms, Cycads & Bamboo
- Floral Clock
- White Garden
- Arid Garden
- Camellias
Leu Gardens — Free Admission The First Monday Of Every Month
My husband and I visited Leu Gardens in early October. We happened to be there on the first Monday of the month, and received free entry, as is their policy every month (excludes special events). Although adult admission is a modest $10 (parking included), the “freebie” was greatly appreciated.
Additionally, if you have a Membership in any of the American Horticultural Society (AHS) Gardens throughout the country, you can take advantage of the reciprocal admission program and receive free admission to Leu Gardens simply by showing your Membership Card and photo ID. Florida has some outstanding botanical gardens and museums that participate such as Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, and Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Garden in Winter Park. With nearly 50 reciprocal partners in the Sunshine State, the cost of Membership will certainly pay for itself many times over! Here’s a link with additional information on a Leu Gardens Membership, including pricing and benefits.
Leu Gardens Self-Guided Walking Tour
Our tour at Leu Gardens began at the Garden House Welcome Center where we picked up a map for our self-guided walking tour. This building also provides space for business meetings, receptions, retreats, art exhibits, and plant groups. Classes are offered year-round for gardening, landscaping, history, wildlife, art, photography, and cooking.
For the plant enthusiast, be sure to stop by the botanic library. The Gift Shop was small but had some unique items to memorialize your visit or suitable for gift giving. A practical purchase would be the all natural botanical herbal insect repellent for your leisurely stroll amidst the gardens.
Leu Gardens Gift Shop
All Natural Botanical Herbal Insect Repellent
Leu Gardens In The Fall
As previously mentioned, I visited Leu Gardens in early October. Since the climate of Central Florida is conducive for year-round plantings, I was expecting much more color. There were a few pockets of gorgeous autumn hues in the Color Garden, but generally speaking, flowering plants were not plentiful. This was my greatest disappointment. I enjoyed the gardens enough to return, but will choose a different season when I do.
Entrance To The Color Garden
Leu Gardens In The Fall
Autumn At Leu Gardens
Leu Gardens In The Fall – Color Garden
Leu House Museum — National Register Of Historic Places
The Leu House Museum is included in the entry fee, and should not be missed. I truly enjoyed my guided tour through this restored 19th century home. It was fascinating to see and hear about turn-of-the-century Florida living. Four families owned the property before it opened to the public in 1961, and each story was captivating. Our docent was extremely knowledgeable and answered questions without hesitation. Many of the furnishings in this historic home were originals left by Mrs. Leu; others are period reproductions.
Tours last about 25 minutes and are available on the hour and half hour. From November 13 – January 2 you can see the Leu House Museum decorated for the holidays. Creative juices flow as 9 local interior designers work their magic in each of the 11 rooms of this estate — everything from Christmas trees, tablescapes, wreaths, vintage ornaments, and much more. You’ll go home with a few decorating tips, for sure!
Leu House Museum – National Register Of Historic Places
Leu House Museum Photo Tour
The Majestic Rose Garden — In Memory Of Mary Jane Leu
The Rose Garden at Harry P. Leu Gardens is nothing short of spectacular! The fact that Mary Jane Leu loved roses is quite evident here. She created it as a place of beauty and education for future generations. It contains some very old garden roses; those existing prior to 1867, as well as more modern varieties. This is the largest formal rose garden in the state of Florida! No wonder Leu Gardens is a favorite wedding destination that hosts over 300 weddings every year. It has been voted as one of the best wedding venues in Orlando.
Formal Rose Garden At Harry P. Leu Gardens
Formal Rose Garden
Largest Formal Rose Garden In Florida
The Floral Clock At Leu Gardens
There are certain not-to-be-missed sections of Leu Gardens, and the Floral Clock is one of them. This feature was inspired by the famous floral clock of Edinburgh, Scotland. The Scottish version was commissioned in 1903, and was the first of its kind in the world. This one was donated by the Kiwanis Club of Orlando in 1975. The unique and stunning display is an actual working clock and the floral designs that fill the face of the clock are changed seasonally. Although not as intricate and well-groomed as I had expected (it appeared somewhat overgrown and the hands of the clock were difficult to see), it is worth a few minutes of your time.
Leu Gardens Floral Clock
The Landing With Floral Clock In Background – A Popular Wedding Location
The Landing At Leu Gardens
Palms, Cycads, And Bamboo
This specialty garden is sometimes referred to as “the dinosaur garden” because it contains many plants dating back to the prehistoric age. For example, Cycads are primitive plants that existed for nearly 200 million years. During the Cretaceous Period when dinosaurs ruled the Earth they were the main plant life. Even though they are palm-like in appearance, they are cone bearing plants and have no relation to palms.
The Palms in this collection rank among the most extensive in the United States. It is vast with nearly 400 species that are well suited for our Central Florida climate. Palms are useful for providing food, furniture, and even wax for surfboards (Carnauba Wax Palm). While strolling the Palm Garden, take a moment to read the plant labels that identify the common name, botanical name, plant family, and origin of each specie. They’re quite interesting.
If you’re a lover of Bamboo like I am, you will be fascinated with nearly 50 varieties in this garden. Bamboo is a woody-stemmed plant in the grass family. Some grow only a few inches tall, while others reach over 70 feet with canes 5 inches in diameter. If you’re considering planting Bamboo in your Central Florida backyard (or even in a controlled indoor environment) I highly recommend visiting Leu Gardens first, where you can check out tons of different species. Some of them have been growing for more than 30 years. When you’re ready to buy, Beautiful Bamboo in Groveland, Florida is a nursery that specializes in Bamboo, about 30 minutes from Orlando.
Dinosaurs And Cycads
Cone Bearing Cycads
Spectacular Towering Palms
Exotic Striped Bamboo Canes At Leu Gardens
Beautiful Clumping Bamboo At Leu Gardens
The Butterfly Garden
Always a favorite of mine is the Butterfly Garden. I’ve been to many in Florida; some were pretty awesome, other’s not so much! The one at Leu Gardens is worth a few minutes of your time. There’s just something about this flying insect that puts a smile on my face every time I see one. To me, this gentle creature that floats in the wind is the epitome of beauty and grace. In this specialty garden, a wide variety of annuals, perennials, shrubs and trees are planted to attract different types of butterflies. Some of them are nectar plants, others are larval plants that caterpillars eat. Many also attract hummingbirds and night-flying moths.
While in the Butterfly Garden, another visitor pointed out the presence of a snake that was trying hard to go un-noticed. Obviously, he got busted! I didn’t stick around long enough to see what kind it was, for even the harmless ones freak me out. Because of my speedy departure from this area, I didn’t spend any time looking at the Herb Garden which displays both culinary and medicinal herbs. The fragrant aroma, however, was proof enough that it existed! The Vegetable Garden area seemed barren. The fenced-in plot of land didn’t have any visible crops. Perhaps they were in-between the summer and fall plantings.
*TIP… Although Leu Gardens is impeccably manicured and maintained, be aware that it is a vast, open area with dense, lush plantings that may be desirable to wandering animals and critters like the one mentioned above. I highly recommend staying on the dedicated walkways. Be vigilant and keep your adventurous spirit in check!
Entrance To Butterfly Garden
Butterfly Garden
Butterfly Garden
Lake Rowena Overlook
The Tropical Stream Garden is appropriately named. There’s a variety of tropical and subtropical plants throughout this garden that create the atmosphere of a tropical rainforest. This is where you’ll see bird-of-paradise, bananas, bromeliads, heliconias, and other tropical beauties. If you’re looking to momentarily escape the Florida heat you’ll want to linger the peaceful paths here. There’s an abundance of shade in this garden. There’s also a sparkling little stream that winds its way into Lake Rowena.
The Lake Rowena overlook was beautiful and relaxing. The boardwalk and gazebo are named for John Wyckoff, one of Leu Gardens original board members. This is one of the newer additions to the Gardens. Take a walking break and enjoy the stunning vistas here. An aquatic wetland garden contains mostly native plants. And… have your camera ready — I’d be surprised if you don’t see heron, turtles, and an occasional alligator!
Lake Rowena Overlook
Peak Season Pops — A Refreshing Respite
Although Leu Gardens does not currently have a cafe on site, frequently there are visiting approved vendors that offer sandwiches or snacks. Hubby was hoping for a hot dog stand, but got to try some popular popsicles instead. Peak Season Pops are gourmet ice pops that are all-natural and handmade with local seasonal ingredients. We met the owners who are an awesome husband and wife team. Honestly… they were the best ice pops I’ve ever had! I’m not usually a popsicle person, but it was very hot and they looked so refreshing. I had the Autumn Roasted Peach and hubby had the Pineapple Lemongrass. Both were outstanding. If you’re in the Orlando area, check out Peak Season Pops for delivery options, special events, birthdays, etc. I highly recommend them. Brooke Chen (owner) was telling us they just did a wedding wherein the bride and groom opted to serve gourmet popsicles instead of traditional wedding cake! Apparently this trend is catching on here in the Sunshine State. For additional information visit the Peak Season Pops website.
*TIP… If you’re planning to be at Leu Gardens for a while, small bag lunches are allowed on the patio of the Garden House Welcome Center. Beverage vending machines are also available in the lobby of the Welcome Center.
Brooke and Danny Chen – Owners Of Peak Season Pops
Gourmet Ice Pops In Seasonal Flavors
Beyond The Gardens — Educational Classes And Workshops
It’s very difficult to see the entire 50-acre botanical Garden in less than 2 hours. We did a leisurely stroll for more than that, yet still managed to miss a few key points of interest. We did not view the Mizell Cemetery or the Idea Garden. The world famous Camellias (largest documented collection in Eastern North America) were not in bloom so we didn’t spend much time in those areas. A 2 hour window is recommended for adequate viewing of the Gardens. We’re planning a return trip, but possibly in the spring, hoping for significantly more color.
Visit the Leu Gardens website for a calendar showing what plants are in bloom in any given month. There’s also information on upcoming events and classes — things like monthly outdoor movie night, monthly storytelling for young children, seasonal concerts, annual plant sale, seed swaps, gardening for honey bees, aroma therapy for intestinal health, bats of Florida, the Leu House holiday lecture, wreath making, mini gardening and fairy gardens, casual Tuscan cooking, and on and on and on! The diverse educational offerings are impressive at Leu Gardens.
*TIP… Bring (or purchase) bottled water, apply insect repellant, and wear comfortable shoes!
UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENT:
Nature Connects® Art with LEGO® Bricks: January 6 – April 22
A one-of-a-kind, outdoor exhibit featuring many larger-than-life sculptures built with LEGO® bricks. Over 450,000 bricks were used in this exhibit to bring nature to life throughout the 50-acre botanical gardens.
Price: Included in the daytime Garden admission of $10 (adult)
Hummingbird from Nature Connects Art with LEGO Bricks!
In Conclusion
Leu Gardens is an urban display of botanical beauty just a short drive from the “happiest place on earth!” It’s not nearly as magical, mind-blowing, or mesmerizing as ‘the Mouse,’ yet memorable in many ways. You’ll experience a sense of serenity that is instantly calming as you intentionally distance yourself from the insanity that sometimes exists in Central Florida tourist areas. Wildly tropical with formal gardens. I know, sounds like an oxymoron, but at Leu Gardens they co-exist in perfect harmony. So go ahead and do your crazy theme park thing, then swing by here for a perfect portrait of what Florida used to be!
Vintage Florida – The Way It Used To Be!
Question: Have you been to Leu Gardens? If you have visited this Central Florida attraction, please share your experience & helpful information with our readers by replying in the comment section below!
The Morse Museum – Winter Park, Florida
The Morse Museum — A Winter Park Winner!
Are you an admirer of Tiffany glass? I wasn’t, until I visited the Morse Museum in Winter Park, Florida. At the risk of offending long-time Tiffany glass aficionados, I just couldn’t understand what all the fuss over Tiffany lamps was about. I thought they were just okay, nothing special, and certainly not superb enough to warrant the kind of bucks required to purchase an original. In fact, I used to think the Tiffany connoisseurs were a bit crazy to dish out such colossal sums of money at those high-end auction houses — more money than brains is what I thought. But my attitude changed when Hubby and I spent some serious time at The Morse Museum during my birthday getaway to wonderful Winter Park.
“Judging art is no trouble at all. Everyone does it. Understanding art calls for time and thought. That is where the excitement and fun are.”
~Hugh F. McKean
World’s Most Comprehensive Collection of Works by Louis Comfort Tiffany (1848-1933)
Although there are other galleries and exhibits at The Morse Museum, the majority of the building houses the world’s most comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany. Since I wasn’t a Tiffany enthusiast, I had no idea his artistic talents were so vast. Whenever I heard the name “Tiffany” I automatically associated it with Tiffany lamps. But I learned there was so much more — including jewelry, pottery, enamels, paintings, mosaics, blown glass, and leaded-glass windows. In fact, Louis Tiffany was a painter, a decorator, an architect, a photographer, and a designer of furniture. In 1881 he was commissioned to decorate Mark Twain’s residence in Hartford, Connecticut. The following year he was commissioned by the 21st President of the United States, Chester Arthur, to decorate the Blue Room, East Room, a corridor, and the State Dining Room of the White House. His achievements were as broad as his success which extends across America, through Europe, and around the world.
The Morse Museum offers a short, but in-depth film which beautifully covers the life and art of Mr. Tiffany. It plays continuously, which enables visitors to enter and exit the theatre at any given time. I recommend watching the film before touring the galleries. That’s where I became educated regarding Tiffany’s accomplishments. Having that knowledge brought a huge appreciation for his works as I viewed the masterpieces on display.
The Morse includes works from every medium and type produced by Tiffany, and they’re nicely separated in many different rooms. Each room has a pamphlet specific to that gallery. Make sure to pick one up every step of the way. Not only does it include an Object Guide with information on each individual item in the room but also gives much history. By the time I completed my tour I had accumulated nearly 20 of them, which, when woven together, creates a wonderful biography of Mr. Tiffany. They’re a nice keepsake and souvenir. NO PHOTOGRAPHY of any type (camera, cell phone, video, etc.) is allowed in the Morse Museum, which is another good reason to take home the Object Guides, which contain small black & white photos of the most popular Tiffany works.
Morse Museum Object Guide
The Chapel
One of my favorite parts of the Morse Museum was the chapel. Mr. Tiffany originally created the chapel interior for an exhibit at the Chicago world’s fair in 1893. When the fair ended he reinstalled it at his New York City studios. After that, the chapel interior was installed in Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine in New York. Eventually, the chapel fell in disrepair so Tiffany reacquired it, restored it, and moved it to his private residence on Long Island. And currently, it’s on display at the Morse Museum. All of the elements of the chapel exhibit are original, except two of the four benches. Amazing, considering it dates back to 1893! With the marble and glass-mosaic furnishings, four huge leaded-glass windows, sixteen glass-mosaic encrusted columns, and 10-foot by 8-foot chandelier, it was difficult keeping my camera concealed. More than any other part of the Museum, I really wanted a few photos of the chapel. It was soooo tempting to sneak a pic… but I obeyed the rules!
Since visitors are allowed to enter the chapel and sit on the benches, hubby and I did so. There was not only appreciation for the incredible talent on display, but everyone present had a deep reverence for the religious aspect. It was so quiet we could have heard a pin drop, and the atmosphere seemed to carry a Divine presence.
Laurelton Hall — Louis Tiffany’s Most Personal Design Project
In addition to galleries with Tiffany art glass, pottery, jewelry, and Tiffany lamps, a large section of the Morse Museum is dedicated to art and architectural objects from the most personal design project of Tiffany’s career — Laurelton Hall. About a half dozen rooms have been re-created to simulate the appearance and character of Tiffany’s private residence.
Laurelton Hall was a vast country estate located on 580 acres on Cold Spring Harbor, Long Island. The mansion consisted of 84 rooms on 8 different levels. He also built other structures on the property including conservatories and stables, and 60 acres of gardens. Every aspect of the estate was designed by Mr. Tiffany, and he was the interior decorator as well. Many of his own creations shared space with objects he collected from his travels around the world. Upon his retirement in 1918, Laurelton Hall became a study center for young artists and a museum for his collections and personal works. Mr. Tiffany died in 1933 and by 1940 a lack of finances forced the Tiffany Foundation to move to New York City and sell his prized collections as well as Laurelton Hall estate. Tragically, a fire gutted the mansion in 1957.
The Florida Connection
As news of the fire spread, Jeannette McKean (founder of The Morse Museum) along with her husband, Hugh, travelled from Florida to Laurelton Hall and purchased whatever Tiffany art pieces survived on the estate. Jeannette had been a long-time collector of Tiffany’s work, and Hugh was an artist himself who studied at Laurelton Hall. Undoubtedly, they were two of Mr. Tiffany’s biggest fans. The husband and wife team had the items shipped back to Florida and became the overseers of a massive restoration project on the Tiffany pieces (including the previously mentioned Chapel). The film we watched chronicled the process which was nothing short of remarkable. Jeannette and Hugh used the help of former Tiffany employees, artists who studied at Laurelton, collectors, and scholars to painstakingly piece together the life and art of Louis Tiffany so that visitors like me can experience it at the Morse Museum. Their collections were built over a half-century. Jeannette founded the Winter Park Morse Museum in 1942 and named it after her grandfather, Charles Hosmer Morse.
The McKeans set up the Charles Hosmer Morse Foundation to support the private Museum, and today it is able to operate without contributions of public funds. Trust me, the very modest admission fee of Adults $5/ Seniors $4/ Students $1 is well worth it. As an added bonus, Friday nights from 4-8pm are free from November through April! There’s always something special happening at The Morse Museum like “Holidays at the Morse,” “Spring at the Morse,” and “Summer at the Morse.” Each season you’ll find options like live music, curator tours, art demonstrations, lecture series, organized children’s events, or free films and matinees. Additionally, throughout the year, many of the Holidays have free admission. Visit their website at http://www.morsemuseum.org for hours of operation and more information.
Exhibitions at the Morse Museum 2015-2016 Guide
The Daffodil Terrace
After leaving the Tiffany Chapel exhibit we headed for the Laurelton Hall section of the Museum. There was a small area aptly named “Introduction to Laurelton Hall,” followed by the Daffodil Terrace. Mr. Tiffany loved daffodils. In fact, it was his favorite flower. Not only did he cultivate and plant them in prominent locations throughout Laurelton Hall, he made his own versions in glass for windows and lamps.
Just like the original Daffodil Terrace at Mr. Tiffany’s Long Island Estate, the one at the Museum contained eight Carrara marble columns each with concrete capitals encrusted with cast-glass daffodils. In the center of the columns was a skylight made of iridescent glass in a pear tree motif (his Long Island residence had a real pear tree in a planter that poked through an opening in the skylight). The ceiling was painted cedar wood, (the original used stenciled cedar Mr. Tiffany acquired in North Africa), and more than one hundred molded tiles in geometric and floral motifs, perfectly replicated right down to the wood-grain patterns of the originals. The Daffodil Terrace has a small sitting area where Museum guests may rest and overlooks a beautiful courtyard. This is the only area in the entire Museum that allows photography.
The Daffodil Terrace leads to the entrance of Laurelton Hall, which contains an original Iron Gate, circa 1904. Here, we were able to view replicated rooms of Tiffany’s mansion including the Dining Room, Living Room, Reception Hall and Study, all containing many original works of art.
Concrete Capitals Encrusted with Cast-glass Daffodils
In Conclusion
My visit to the Morse Museum was worth far more than the meager $5 admission fee. You can scurry through and be out in an hour, or, like me you can tarry and read the Gallery Guides as you go for a deeper appreciation of the life and art of an American Icon. The Staff/volunteers at the Museum were all friendly and beyond helpful. Most of the larger rooms had a dedicated Security Guard, especially in the Tiffany exhibits. I had questions along the way, all of which were impressively answered by the Security team who were extremely knowledgeable. Feel free to ask them anything. I got the impression they actually liked the engagement.
Yes, Tiffany Studios in New York City made leaded glass lamps by the thousands — but Louis Comfort Tiffany also made unique one-of-a-kind massive windows and little known works of art that can only be seen in one place… the Morse Museum in Winter Park, Florida! I highly recommend this Museum!
A Few of the Tiffany Lamps from the Morse Collection Listed in the 2015-2016 Guide
ADDITIONAL POINTS OF INTEREST & ACTIVITIES IN WINTER PARK
Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens
Winter Park Food and History Tour
Have you been to the Morse Museum? Please share your experience with our readers, or let us know the name of your favorite Florida Museum.