Farmers’ Markets Near Orlando: Three You Must Visit
FARMERS’ MARKETS NEAR ORLANDO: 3 YOU MUST VISIT
With a growing number of Floridians interested in locally-sourced ingredients and organically grown produce, Central Florida’s farm market scene is especially vibrant. With Florida’s temperate climate, guests of Thurston House, our Orlando area bed and breakfast, can visit several local farmers’ markets year round. On any given weekend, you could find 20 markets within a half-hour drive of the inn. Here’s three you must explore that are just a few quick minutes away.
Florida farmers’ markets are a great showcase of local products because many markets stipulate that vendors grow, make, or process the ingredients in the products they sell. This means the honey, fruit, bread, herbs, or jam you buy is likely from Florida. And most are as fresh as a few days old. Also, farm stands are usually represented by the farmer or the farm workers, meaning you can ask questions firsthand about how the food was grown or made.
WINTER PARK SATURDAY FARMERS’ MARKET
In particular, the Winter Park Saturday Farmers’ Market is the number one produce and plant market in Central Florida. Every Saturday morning from, over 50 vendors gather to sell their fresh produce, plants, baked goods and more. Mason, of Winter Park Urban Farms, is one of our favorite farmers, cultivating gardens in back yards around town and offering seasonal produce harvested just the day before market. Set up in the Central Park West Meadow, across from the old train depot, the Winter Park Saturday Farmers’ Market is a popular gathering place for locals, and their dogs, on the weekends.
MAITLAND FARMERS’ MARKET
On Sunday mornings, the Maitland Farmers’ Market is a fun place to spend a few hours. Located in downtown Maitland on Independence Lane, nearly 25 vendors are excited to greet you. Shop fresh produce and fruit, plants and flowers, crafts, food, and more. Get a croissant or made-to-order crepe from Chez Vincent Bakery before stepping across to Blessed Bean Coffee for a fresh cup of java. There’s live music provided courtesy of Performing Arts Matters and kids always enjoy inflatable slides and games in the park.
ORLANDO LAKE EOLA MARKET
The proximity of our Central Florida B&B to Orlando makes it an easy 10-minute drive south to another local market on Sundays. The Orlando Farmers’ Market, in its 35th year, is held at Lake Eola Park near Downtown Orlando, every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.. More than a traditional farmers’ market, you will also find crafts, gifts, wine and jewelry in addition to fresh produce and baked goods. Always family friendly, take the kids and dogs for a great afternoon on the banks of Lake Eola.
Here’s a list of other Central Florida markets to explore if time permits: “Top 10 Farmer’s Markets in Central Florida” You’re sure to find a tasty snack or the perfect souvenir at one of these Orlando-area Farmers’ Markets when you stay at Thurston House Bed & Breakfast near Orlando.