EXPLORE THE MORSE MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART IN WINTER PARK

EXPLORE THE MORSE MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART IN WINTER PARK

Explore the Morse Museum: A Winter Park Gem

Tucked away in the charming city of Winter Park, Florida, just a few miles from our historic Thurston House bed and breakfast, the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art is a hidden gem that beckons art enthusiasts, history buffs, and curious minds alike. This remarkable museum is renowned for its extensive collection of American decorative and fine arts, particularly its unparalleled holdings of works by renowned artist and designer Louis Comfort Tiffany. Let’s uncover the Morse Museum’s offerings, its rich history, and exciting events to look forward to during the 2023 holiday season.

Louis Comfort Tiffany Collection

The Morse Museum boasts a diverse and awe-inspiring array of American artistry spanning several centuries. Its centerpiece is the world’s most comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany (1848-1933), the celebrated artist known for his exquisite stained glass creations. Visitors are transported into a world of shimmering beauty as they explore Tiffany’s intricate glass lamps, windows, jewelry, and other decorative arts. The Morse Museum also houses an exquisite chapel interior designed by Tiffany for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago, known as the “Tiffany Chapel,” which is a breathtaking sight to behold.

Architectural objects and art from his Long Island country estate, Laurelton Hall, are also on display.In addition to Tiffany’s creations, the museum features a wide range of American art, including pottery, paintings, and decorative objects from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The collection includes pieces by prominent artists and designers such as John La Farge, Alice Gouvy, and Augustus Saint-Gaudens.

A Glimpse into the Morse Museum’s History

The Morse Museum has a history as rich and captivating as the art it houses. It was founded in 1942 by Jeannette Genius McKean, who named the museum after her grandfather, Winter Park philanthropist Charles Hosmer Morse. Together, she and her husband, Hugh McKean, who directed the Museum for many years, dedicated their lives to preserving Tiffany’s legacy and promoting American art. The McKeans built the collection over half a century, and today, their vision has resulted in a museum that stands as a testament to their passion and commitment.

Originally housed on the campus of Rollins College, it opened on North Park Avenue in 1995, today occupying over 42,000 square feet of gallery space. The Morse is owned and operated privately by foundation and receives no public funds.

Christmas Holidays at the Morse Museum 2023

One of the most exciting events to look forward to during the holiday season in Central Florida is “Christmas in the Park” in Winter Park. Each year, the Morse Museum helps launch this festive season when they light up Tiffany windows in Central Park and present the Bach Festival Choir and Brass Ensemble in concert. This year, the 45th annual celebration of Christmas in the Park, will take place on Thursday, Nov. 30 starting at 6:15pm. The Museum’s website tells the touching history of the event and the significance or the windows.

Another beloved holiday tradition at the Morse Museum is the “Friday Nights at the Morse” series, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience the museum after hours in a special and engaging way. Each Friday night during the series, the museum comes alive with a variety of activities, including live music, art demonstrations, and special tours. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the world of American art while enjoying a vibrant and social atmosphere.

The 2023-2024 season series coincides with the holiday festivities in Winter Park and kicks off the Friday after Thanksgiving, November 24, 2023, with a lively jazz quartet.  Holiday Friday Nights will continue every Friday night through the end of 2023. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or just looking for a fun and cultural night out, “Friday Nights at the Morse” is an event not to be missed.

Visiting the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art

The Museum is located at 445 N Park Avenue in Winter Park, Florida. Free parking is available behind the Museum and on several levels of the Park Place garage across from the Museum. The Museum and Museum Shop are open every day except on Mondays, and visitors can make appointments on the Museum’s website: https://morsemuseum.org/plan-your-visit/. Several  orientation videos are offered online as well, and the Museum provides complimentary audio tours of the galleries via cell phone.

The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art in Winter Park, Florida, is a cultural treasure that invites visitors to explore the beauty and history of American art. It’s remarkable collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany’s works and its dedication to preserving American artistry make it a must-visit destination.

Plan a weekend getaway to Winter Park during this Christmas season and include “Friday Nights at the Morse” in your plan. The Museum, and Central Park are just a quick ten minutes from our historic bed and breakfast, Thurston House. Who knows, but very likely the Morses and the Thurstons attended the same social events while wintering in Central Florida in the late 1800s. And surely, both families offered comfortable and gracious accommodations to their friends and family visiting during the holidays.

Certainly today, the Morse Museum promises an enchanting and immersive experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the museum’s offerings. Mark your calendars, book your stay at Thurston House, and prepare to be captivated by the area’s artistry and history this Christmas season!

LIKE MUSICAL THEATER? DISCOVER THE WINTER PARK PLAYHOUSE!

LIKE MUSICAL THEATER? DISCOVER THE WINTER PARK PLAYHOUSE!

Winter Park Playhouse logoCentral Florida’s only professional musical theater is nestled right here in our neighboring City of Winter Park, Florida. The Winter Park Playhouse is a hidden gem that’s been delighting audiences for over 20 years. If you’re searching for a place where the magic of live theater meets the joy of music, look no further. This cozy playhouse has a rich history of bringing toe-tapping tunes and heartwarming stories to life, and the 2023-24 Mainstage Musical series promises to be a musical extravaganza like no other. It’s one of the top things our guests like to do when staying at Thurston House, our Orlando area bed and breakfast.

A Glimpse into History

Founded in 2002 by Roy Alan and Heather Alexander, the Winter Park Playhouse has become a beloved institution in Central Florida. This intimate, 123-seat theater, with its comfortable seating and friendly atmosphere, offers an up-close and personal experience that’s perfect for musical enthusiasts of all ages.

Over the years, the Playhouse has progressively broadened its reach, and today, the Playhouse presents six main stage musical productions, monthly cabarets, quarterly special events, the Florida Festival of New Musicals, and numerous community outreach programs each season.

Affiliated with Actors’ Equity Association, the professional union of actors and stage managers, Winter Park Playhouse maintains high artistic standards and proudly employs professional actors, musicians and technicians. Offering a diverse range of shows, from classic Broadway hits to lesser-known gems, all while showcasing the immense talent of local and visiting performers, the Playhouse is not just a theater; it’s a place where memories are made and musical dreams come true.

2023-24 Mainstage Series Schedule

If you like musical theater, discover the Winter Park Playhouse and prepare to be entertained, moved, and thoroughly enchanted by their exciting lineup of shows. Whether you’re a seasoned theatergoer or a newbie looking for a great night out, there’s something for everyone. While there are a variety of other great series, here are highlights from the 2023-24 Mainstage Series:

“Ruthless” September 22-October 15, 2023~Judy, a naive 1950s housewife, and her adorable 8-year-old daughter, Tina, will do ANYTHING to get the lead role in her school play “including murdering the leading lady!” This fun spoof has its twists, turns and killer laughs!

Christmas show with Tony Bennett picture“A Swingin’ Christmas: The Holiday Music of Tony Bennett” November 10-December 16, 2023~Ring in the holidays with this unforgettable evening of quintessential Tony Bennett songs! Featuring eighteen classic holiday tunes plus the standards that made Bennett famous, like his signature “I Left My Heart in San Francisco.” Grab your friends and family and celebrate the season Tony Bennett style! (WPP)

“Breaking Up is Hard to Do” January 19 – February 17, 2024~ This nostalgic musical comedy celebrates the timeless songwriting of the legendary Neil Sedaka! Set at a Catskills resort in 1960, this humorous and heartwarming musical follows two friends from Brooklyn in search of good times and romance over one wild Labor Day weekend. Featuring twenty of Sedaka’s most popular songs.

“Five Guys Named Moe” March 15 – April 20, 2024~A high-energy Broadway musical set to Louis Jordan’s iconic rhythm and blues/jazz score! After Nomax’s world is turned upside down, he finds comfort and joy through five guys named Moe, stepping out through his radio! With dozens of whimsical hit songs, this musical fantasy delivers exuberant entertainment!

“George M. Cohan Tonight!” May 10 – June 9, 2024~ Meet “The Yankee Doodle Boy” himself in this high-energy, one-man journey through the life, music, and artistry of this legendary entertainer. This off-Broadway musical features a plethora of tap dancing and hit songs including “Give My Regards to Broadway,” “Over There,” and “You’re A Grand Old Flag.”

Make it a Weekend Theater Getaway!

Winter Park Playhouse Musical Theater from entranceDon’t miss out on these fantastic shows during the Winter Park Playhouse’s 2023-24 season. With only 123 seats, shows sell out fast! Here’s an idea…make it a weekend getaway! Thurston House is just a quick 10-minute drive to the Playhouse.

Check out our specials on our website. We offer a theater package from time to time with special ticket prices! That makes things simple! After checking in to our historic Central Florida B&B, you can head out to the theater (with many dining options nearby). It’s a lineup filled with diverse musical experiences (and cozy accommodations) that promise to entertain and enchant! We can’t wait to see you!

WINTER PARK AUTUMN ART FESTIVAL 2023: CELEBRATING FLORIDA ARTISTS!

WINTER PARK AUTUMN ART FESTIVAL 2023: CELEBRATING FLORIDA ARTISTS! 

📅 Date: October 7-8, 2023 📍 Location: Central Park, Winter Park, Florida

Are you an Art Enthusiast? Mark your calendar and get ready to immerse yourself in a world of creativity and inspiration at the 2023 Winter Park Autumn Art Festival, the only juried fine art festival exclusively featuring Florida artists. This spectacular event promises to be a celebration of Florida’s rich artistic talent, and you simply can’t afford to miss it!

Picture a crisp autumn weekend (we can dream) in the charming city of Winter Park, where the lush foliage provides a breathtaking backdrop to the exceptional talents of Florida’s most gifted artists. Whether you’re a seasoned art aficionado or just looking for a delightful way to spend your weekend, this festival has something for everyone.

Winter Park Autumn Art Festival booth with paintings and patrons.

INTERACT WITH FLORIDA ARTISTS

Stroll through the picturesque Central Park, located along the historic Park Avenue in downtown Winter Park, where vibrant colors and intricate designs will adorn the booths of 186 Florida artists chosen this year. From stunning paintings and sculptures to unique ceramics and handcrafted jewelry, you’ll discover a treasure trove of artistic expressions that capture the essence of our Sunshine State.

As you explore the festival, you’ll have the opportunity to engage with the artists themselves, gaining insight into their creative process and the stories behind their works. It’s a chance to connect with the creators, forging a deeper appreciation for the art that surrounds us.

ALL YOUR SENSES WILL THANK YOU!

Winter Park Autumn Art Festival logo with captial letters AAFThe Winter Park Autumn Art Festival, celebrating Florida artists, isn’t just about visual art; it’s a multi-sensory experience. You’ll savor delicious culinary delights from over a dozen local food vendors while enjoying live music that sets the perfect ambiance for your day. There’s a great line-up of entertainment on the main stage from 9AM-5PM each day.

And for our younger art enthusiasts, there are engaging activities to nurture their own budding creativity. The Crealde School of Art will hold workshops for kids in the Children’s Tent both days.

This year, we invite you to become a part of a vibrant artistic community, where talent meets passion, and creativity knows no bounds. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate the rich tapestry of Florida’s artistic scene at the 2023 Winter Park Autumn Art Festival, October 7-8, hosted by the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce.

Need a home base for the weekend? Thurston House, our historic bed & breakfast, is just 5 minutes from all the fun in Winter Park. We look forward to welcoming you with open arms and open hearts! Save the date and let the art adventure begin! 🍂🎨

ROLLINS COLLEGE MUSEUM OF ART

ROLLINS COLLEGE MUSEUM OF ART

wall art in lobby

If you’re an art lover and exploring art in the Orlando area, you’ll definitely want to include the Rollins Museum of Art on your itinerary. The museum, located on the Rollins College campus in Winter Park, is a hidden gem with more than 5600 works in its collection.

Central Florida attracts many adventurers looking for art, culture and entertainment. If you are one, numerous art collections are worthy of your attention, including the Mennello Museum of American Art, Orlando Museum of Art, the Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens, and the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, to name a few.

The Rollins Museum of Art ranks high among this list featuring rotating exhibitions, ongoing programs, and an extensive permanent collection that spans centuries. Its holdings include a sizable American art collection and the only European Old Master paintings in the Orlando area. Fortunately, for guests of Thurston House, these discoveries are all within a few miles of the inn.

group sitting at table looking at artwork

The museum’s mission is to be “a teaching museum that stimulates transformative encounters with works of art while integrating art learning into daily life for campus and community.”

With education at its core, RMA, the only campus art museum in the greater Orlando area, offers numerous programs that allow visitors to engage with art, not just view it. Programs are designed for K-12 and college students as well as adults and families in the Central Florida area. There are docent-led tours, workshops, films, and hands-on activities available on an ongoing basis.

A CERTAIN FUTURE IN CENTRAL FLORIDA

Rollins Art Museum was one of Florida’s first college museums to be accredited by the American Association of Museums in 1981, and it continues as one of only four AAM-accredited museums in the greater Orlando area. With committed support of the College and its friends, the Museum will dramatically expand the scope of its influence in the next few years when it breaks ground on a contemporary 30,000 square-foot future home. This $25 million project will offer the museum the much-needed space to curate its rapidly-growing collection and expand its outreach and teaching programs.

VISITING ROLLINS MUSEUM OF ART

wall with art displayed

Visitors to the museum will discover a broad range of media, periods and styles. Exhibits include its permanent, but rapidly-growing, collection of more than 5600 works and its limited seasonal exhibitions. Collection strengths lie in European, American, and contemporary art from the Renaissance to today.

Rollins Museum of Art in Winter Park offers docent-led museum tours on Saturday afternoons at 1:00 & 3:00 PM. These tours highlight works from their current exhibitions.

The museum is open to the public year round (except Mondays and a few holidays) and admission is free thanks to RMA members. Be sure to stop by the Museum Shop which helps support the Rollins Museum of Art.

GETTING THERE

front of art building

The Rollins Museum of Art is located on the Rollins College campus in the city of Winter Park at the east end of Holt Ave. There are a limited number of designated museum visitor parking spaces adjacent to the Museum on Holt Ave. Free parking is also available at the Truist Parking Garage at Lyman Avenue with a validated ticket from the Museum and at the Rollins Parking Garage, located at the corner of Fairbanks and Ollie Avenues.

The heart of the Rollins College area in Winter Park is home to a symphony of experiences to enjoy. Within a mile’s radius, you can take in the Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens and the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum to name a few. The area is also home to the well-appointed Park Avenue with its cozy cafes, luxurious shops, fine art galleries, and popular restaurants.

Spend the day indulging in art and exploring the Orlando area before heading back to your quiet room at Thurston House. You might even have time to sneak in a nap in the hammock before your local dinner reservation. It doesn’t get better than this!

Visit Rollins Museum of Art online at www.rollins.edu/rma/.

 

ART GALLERIES NEAR ORLANDO WINTER PARK IN CENTRAL FLORIDA…VISIT THESE 3

water fountain winter park flART GALLERIES NEAR ORLANDO WINTER PARK IN CENTRAL FLORIDA…VISIT THESE THREE.

Florida is known for its scenic beauty, from its multitude of lakes and white-sand beaches to the wildlife-rich everglades and tropical paradise of the Keys. So it’s no wonder that there’s a prolific artist community ready to capture this beauty, and as many tourists intent on taking pieces of it home to enjoy all year long. Many art galleries in the Central Florida area showcase our local artists. On your next stay at Thurston House Bed & Breakfast near Orlando, visit these three art galleries near Orlando Winter Park FL to check out their collected beauties.

 

THE GALLERY 32789, 515 N. PARK AVE, STE 114, WINTER PARK, FL 32789

The Gallery 32789 is set in downtown Winter Park near the Morse Museum in Brandywine Square, steps from Central Park and its fine dining, upscale shops, and world-renowned museums. Representing professional artists who work in oil, acrylic and mixed-media paintings, sculpture, jewelry, clay and photography, The Gallery 32789 hosts monthly by-invitation-only art events.

 

scene storefronts along park avenue winter parkPARK AVENUE CONTEMPORARY ART, 348 S. PARK AVE, WINTER PARK, FL 32789

After finding a cozy lunch spot along the avenue, be sure to stop in at Park Avenue Contemporary Art, featuring contemporary artwork from over 25 Florida and national artists. Founded by Denise Autorino, an avid 20-year art collector, the gallery opened at the Park Plaza Hotel in 2020. Its new location on Park Avenue offers generous space for larger paintings, sculptures, artist talks, events and more.

 

STELTENKAMP FINE ART, 126 S. PARK AVE, WINTER PARK, FL 32789

Another art gallery near Orlando Winter Park caters to lovers of fine art. Steltenkamp Fine Art offers a private gallery in an historic second floor setting overlooking downtown Winter Park. Bill and MaryAnn invite you to appreciate art in a new way in a sophisticated, but casual venue. They feature unique pieces from a variety of genres and countries. Whether you are a novice or seasoned collector, you will find something of interest. Ask the Steltenkamps about upcoming art lectures and private artist exhibitions when you visit.

 

Spend the day soaking up art galleries near Orlando Winter Park FL. then head back to your comfy room at Thurston House. You might even have time for a nap in the hammock on the sleeping porch before venturing out to a fabulous dinner. Ah…life is good!

 

 

Farmers’ Markets Near Orlando: Three You Must Visit

FARMERS’ MARKETS NEAR ORLANDO: 3 YOU MUST VISITbrown bag with purchase at market

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.

chicken pot pies being sold at market

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.

Make The Most Of A Valentine’s Day Getaway to Winter Park Florida

Make The Most Of A Valentine’s Day Getaway To Winter Park Florida

Raise the bar of your Valentine’s Day getaway to Winter Park, Florida with our popular Romance Package lodging special!

Treat yourself and that special someone to the peaceful charm and idyllic lakefront setting of our historic 1885 Florida bed and breakfast. Thurston House is nestled on 8 wooded acres with the best of Winter Park, Florida just minutes away.

The timeless historic culture and natural beauty of the Winter Park area in Central Florida makes it the perfect destination for any Valentine’s Day romantic getaway. Mild temperatures and hundreds of lakes set the backdrop for classic architecture filled with shops, restaurants, museums, theaters, and romantic lake cruises.

When it comes to romantic adventures, Winter Park, Florida will not disappoint. From scenic canal tours, art walks, wine tastings, and live music to French bistros, handmade chocolate shops, and massage, we have it all!

No matter what form your romance takes, Winter Park, Florida remains the perfect place to express it, and Thurston House can help with our romantic lodging packages and specials!

Couples MassageValentine’s Day Getaway Romantic Packages and Special Add-Ons

Visit our Special Luxury Enhancements page to discover a diverse offering of fun and romantic options to make your Valentine’s Day Getaway in Winter Park, Florida even more delightful.

Our popular Romance Package, for example, includes:

  • Bedside bouquet (or upgrade to a dozen roses)
  • Charcuterie Snack Box waiting in your room (surely to include chocolate-covered strawberries)
  • Two 60-minute massage sessions
  • Telegraph Hill robes to use during your stay
  • Delicious home-cooked breakfast each morning

Looking to completely unwind with your sweetie? What better way than to fall asleep in a hammock made for two after a fragrant bath in our clawfoot soaking tub.

You’ll surely win the prize with our All-Inclusive Romantic Package. We’ve thought of everything for you! You’ll have all the features of our Romance Package above, but unwind and rejuvenate from the Hirsch Room including private, exclusive use of the adjacent screened-in sleeping porch with romantic two-person hammock. The Hirsch Room has our only deep-soaking clawfoot tub, original to the house. We’ll even include a supply of bath salts and bubbles to wash all your stress away!

Luxury Enhancements to Your Valentine’s Day Getaway To Winter Park Florida

Customize your Valentine’s Day Getaway with any number of add-ons to make your stay even more special. Choose hand-made local chocolates, fresh fruit, roses, chocolate-covered strawberries, and so much more! Looking for something we’ve not listed? Ask us! We’ll do our best to make it happen.

Couple ShoppingOh, but you’re thinking you might need a little extra time to really explore all that Winter Park has to offer?

In that case, why not take advantage of our Free Tuesdays Weekday Special. With this lodging special, you can enjoy your home away from home for a little longer with a free Tuesday! An extra day in Winter Park, Florida is an opportunity to take a scenic canal tour, explore the Tiffany Collection at the Morse Museum, or just soak up the peaceful views of Lake Eulalia from the porch at Thurston House. How you spend your extra time is up to you, we just want you to be at home here in Central Florida.

At Thurston House, we’re dedicated to helping make your Valentine’s Day Getaway to Winter Park in Central Florida the best it can possibly be. It’s just around the corner!

Find all the details you need to book your stay at our Specials & Packages page. We hope to see you soon…Happy Valentine’s Day!

Rollin’s College Family Weekend 2016

Rollin’s College Family Weekend 2016 is almost upon us! The college looks forward to welcoming families to campus for this special weekend. Activities include spending time relaxing with your student, meeting with distinguished faculty members, and becoming better acquainted with the Rollins community! It’s always a special weekend for all.

Rollin's College Family Weekend 2016 Accommodations

Rollin’s College Family Weekend 2016 Accommodations

Thurston House Bed & Breakfast in Maitland has enjoyed hosting Rollin’s parents for over 24 years now. Our location just 3 miles from the school, yet in a very quiet secluded location, makes us a prefect location to stay. Enjoy the activities in busy Winter Park, then come “home” to your lovely room, one of only 3 offered to guests. After a great nights sleep and an excellent full breakfast you will be ready to enjoy another full day with your family.

Rollin’s College Family Weekend 2016 starts in two days. We unexpectedly received a cancellation for our most popular room, the O’Heir Room, the only one overlooking Lake Eulalia. Make your reservation NOW!

Winter Park Arts Festival 2016

Winter Park FountainWinter Park Arts Festival 2016 is almost upon us. This year the show is on the dates – 3/18-19-20. The Festival features a wide variety of fine arts and crafts including the categories of clay, digital art, drawings & pastels, fiber, glass, graphics & printmaking, jewelry, leather, metal, mixed media 2D, mixed media 3D, painting, photography, sculpture, watercolor and wood. Attendees travel from far and wide to go to this well known and respected art show.

Winter Park Arts Festival 2016 is held along Park Avenue, an area well known for wonderful shops, wine stores and eateries. Guests at Thurston House, the only Winter Park area bed & breakfast, love that we are located so close to the show, yet in a quiet setting amid 8 acres of lakefront land.

Winter Park Arts Festival 2016 - Thurston House porch

Winter Park Arts Festival 2016 – Thurston House porch

After a busy day enjoying the beautiful show art and perhaps making a purchase or two, the guests gather back on the wraparound porch sipping a beverage and enjoying the complimentary 5pm snack. Winter Park Arts Festival 2016 will once again bring a full house of guests here to Thurston House.