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! 🍂🎨

DISCOVER THE ART & HISTORY MUSEUMS MAITLAND: A RETIREE’S HIDDEN GEM

 DISCOVER THE ART & HISTORY MUSEUMS MAITLAND: A Retiree’s Hidden Gem

Art & History Museum Maitland white stucco buildings with pond in forefront

Where can retirees find museums with great art and rich history when traveling to Central Florida? Here’s one to consider! Nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake Sybelia in Maitland, just north of Orlando, the Art & History Museums Maitland (A&H) is a cultural treasure waiting to be explored. Steeped in history and brimming with artistic wonders, this institution is a must-visit destination for retirees and art enthusiasts alike when vacationing in Central Florida. And, lucky for you, it’s just a quick five-minute jaunt from Thurston House, our historic B&B.

HISTORY AND SIGNIFICANCE OF THE A&H MUSEUMS

The Art & History Museums Maitland boasts a rich history dating back to the 1930s when J. Andre’ Smith established the “Research Studio” as a haven for artists and historians. He envisioned a place where art and history converged, and his dream came to fruition when the Maitland Art Center was opened.

Did you know? The Maitland Art Center is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is one of the few surviving examples of Mayan Revival architecture in the Southeastern United States. Its unique architecture alone is worth the visit.

Today, the A&H is a dynamic cultural institution comprising five museums and historic properties. These include the Maitland Art Center, Maitland Historical Museum, Waterhouse Residence Museum, Telephone Museum, and Carpentry Shop Museum. Each site offers a distinct glimpse into the region’s art and history, creating a comprehensive experience for visitors.

WHY IS THE ART & HISTORY MUSEUM MAITLAND A HIDDEN GEM FOR RETIREES? 

Retirees looking for art and history, in particular, will find the A&H to be an enriching and leisurely destination. Here are some reasons why:

  • Artistic Inspiration: The A&H hosts rotating exhibitions that showcase the works of local and international artists. Immerse yourself in the beauty of contemporary and historical art.
  • Historical Insights: The historical museums provide a fascinating journey through time, offering a chance to delve into the history of Maitland and the broader region of Orange County. In a short afternoon, you can gain a deeper understanding of the community near Orlando that has been home to so many through the years.
  • Cultural Engagement: The A&H Maitland Art Center regularly hosts events, workshops, and lectures, making it a vibrant hub for cultural engagement. One can easily participate in art classes, attend lectures, or simply relax in the serene gardens.
  • Peaceful Surroundings: The A&H’s tranquil setting is perfect for anyone seeking a peaceful escape. Strolling through lush gardens or enjoying the serene lakeside views can provide a sense of relaxation and restoration.

Art & History Museum Maitland orange logoDon’t miss out on the Art & History Museum Maitland for a unique opportunity to blend appreciation for art and history while enjoying the beauty of Florida’s landscapes. With its rich history, diverse exhibits, and serene ambiance, it’s a hidden gem waiting to be discovered and cherished by those seeking cultural enrichment and relaxation. Reserve a few days at Thurston House, our 1885 built bed & breakfast, and let us be your restful haven during your Central Florida adventures. We’ll take good care of you!

CENTRAL FLORIDA SUMMER GETAWAY 2023

CENTRAL FLORIDA GETAWAY NEAR ORLANDOExterior view of Thurston House

Who says you can’t vacation in Central Florida in the summertime?

Summer is the perfect time to explore Orlando’s numerous museums—inside luxuriously air-conditioned surroundings. Make Thurston House Bed & Breakfast your home-away-from-home for a few days while you discover art, history, and theater—all less than five miles away.

Thurston House is set on eight park-like acres in Maitland, just north of Orlando’s city limits. Built in 1885, this Queen-Anne Victorian has its own story to tell, with gleaming pine woodwork in relaxing parlors and modern hotel comforts in our three unique guest rooms. Set your personal room thermostat as cool as you’d like!

What to Do to Stay Cool in Central Florida Summers

Once you’ve settled into your Thurston House home-away-from-home, head over to the largest collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, held by the Morse Museum of American Art in Winter Park. Browse the Museum Shop where you just might find Tiffany-designed jewelry you can’t live without! Then, step outside for just a moment to discover one of dozens of cool bistros or bars for lunch or dinner.

The Orlando area boasts many other art venues where you can continue your cool end-of-summer getaway. The Rollins Museum of Art, also in Winter Park, is featuring several new exhibitions running throughout the summer. A short mile’s drive to Loch Haven Cultural Park (Orlando) is the Orlando Museum of Art, and it’s large permanent contemporary collection.

The intimate Mennello Museum of American Art, also in Loch Haven Park, primarily displays the permanent collection of paintings by Earl Cunningham. As you approach, don’t miss the 350-year-old sprawling live oak tree draped with Spanish moss called “The Mayor” in the Mennello Sculpture Gardens. Art’s not your thing? Stay cool at the Orlando Science Center or the Orlando Fire Museum …yes, also in Loch Haven Park.

Perhaps you’d like to beat the heat with some dramatic entertainment in a cool theater setting. We have that too! The Orlando Shakespeare Theater is only a few miles from Thurston House, and the Winter Park Playhouse is even closer. In August, the Playhouse opens Two for Murder, a new production combining “classic musical comedy and madcap mystery.” This should be fun!

Front of theater for end-of-summer getaway near Orlando

Last but not least…Enzian Theater, right here in Maitland, is another fabulous strategy for a cool getaway during the last hot days of summer. Enzian is a single-screen cinema café and prides itself on being Central Florida’s only alternative cinema offering independent, foreign, and classic films.

Who says you have to stay home to endure Central Florida’s summer heat? Summer won’t last forever…check availability now!