Exploring Winter Park: A Blend of Old-World Charm and Modern Growth

There are homes in Winter Park that were built as early as 1883 that stand as proof that WinterPark is a city with old world charm. Over the years the city has grown and changed, and you can find brand new and modern buildings standing side by side with buildings half a century old, some even older than that.

The town was laid out and developed with the idea of entertaining wealthy clients from theNorth seeking somewhere warm for the winter. Even now, Central Florida is a destination for not only travelers from the North but all over the world. Made famous by warm weather and copious lakes and strolling avenues, Winter Park is home not only to visitors but full-time residents who enjoy the area.

Winter Park expanded rapidly in the 1880s and is still undergoing massive change 140 years later. The city maintains a small-town charm while being expansive and roomy.

Historic residential districts are maintained with accuracy and diligence, while retail and commercial areas are trending toward modernization. For instance, along theOrange Avenue corridor there is a push to encourage redevelopment while maintaining the character of Winter Park.

The OrangeAvenue Overlay project that is currently under discussion with the vision in mind to provide more mixed-use developments that will encourage growth and use of smaller or older businesses. Coexisting with the current Winter Park comprehensive plans (which ensures growth in the city meets state and federal regulations), the Orange Avenue Overlay project aims to maintain the city’s character and expand cultural and community centers.

The community of Winter Park has a long and rich history of development with beauty and culture in mind. Projects like the Orange Avenue Overlay continue to facilitate growth in the city keeping the roots of the winter vacation town close to the modern visions of 21st century life.

_{Published: February 28, 2020}