Ariel W.
Google
South Central Park in Winter Haven is reminiscent of an old fashioned town square. It was once part of a larger, historic downtown park system dating back to 1884. In the early 1900’s South Central Park was an important first stop to the little town of Harris Corners, now known as Winter Haven. What is now the park was an active railroad depot that brought people and business to the town. As automobiles replaced train travel, the park became a location to enjoy the outdoors, celebrate special events, and for the community to gather with neighbors and friends.
In the 1950's City Commissioner Virginia Foley Miller made beautification of the park and downtown a priority. The Bowen family donated land for public use which allowed for creating a reimagined gathering space.
In 2017 a construction, revitalization and design project headed by Pennoni was kicked off to transform the space by creating a versatile, safe, and attractive space for both day and night use. Amenities added to the park included LED lighting, decorative walls, planters, drinking fountains, and a visitor information kiosk.
Today this downtown park hosts over 175 events per year. It is surrounded by the historic downtown district where you can dine and shop. One of the buildings across from the park is the very first Publix.
I enjoyed visiting the park in December when all of the city holiday decorations were displayed. During the day it was a peaceful place to stop as I worked out my itinerary for the day while enjoying a caffeinated beverage from nearby Richards Fine Coffees. At night all of the beautiful decoration were lit up transforming the park in a holiday wonderland. South Central Park continues to serve as an important anchor to historic downtown Winter Haven.
