Fredy Y.
Yelp
It's a balmy spring evening in Winter Park, Florida, and the sun is shining bright. The air is thick with the scent of blooming flowers and the mood is relaxed and carefree. As I make my way towards Lake Osceola, I can't help but feel a sense of excitement for what's to come: the scenic boat tour of Winter Park.
The tour, which has been operating for over 80 years, is a staple of Winter Park's tourist scene. Visitors from all over the world come to experience the beauty of the city's lakes and canals, which are brimming with exotic wildlife and lush foliage.
As I step onto the boat, I'm greeted by the captain, who is sporting a wide-brimmed hat and a friendly smile. The Pontoon boat is classic in design, with wooden benches and no canopy to enjoy the Florida sun. As we begin to cruise down the canal, the captain introduces himself and gives us a brief history of the area.
The boat tour is a one-hour journey through three of Winter Park's seven lakes: Osceola, Virginia, and Maitland. Along the way, we pass by some of the city's most notable landmarks, including the Rollins College campus, the Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens, and the Kraft Azalea Garden.
The scenery is breathtaking, with towering cypress trees, graceful swans, and colorful bougainvillea lining the shores. We glide past beautiful homes and estates, many of which date back to the early 20th century, and learn about the history and architecture of each one.
The captain is a wealth of knowledge, regaling us with stories of famous residents, such as Fred Rogers of Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood fame, who lived in Winter Park during his college years. He also points out interesting details, such as a gargantuan banyan tree that was planted in the early 1900s and now spans over an acre of land.
As we reach the end of our journey, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience Winter Park in such a unique and special way. The scenic boat tour is a true gem of the city, offering a glimpse into its rich history and natural beauty.
As I disembark, I'm already planning my next visit. Maybe I'll bring some friends and a picnic basket and spend the afternoon exploring the lakes on a paddleboard. Or maybe I'll win the lottery and buy one of the houses. Regardless, one thing is certain: the scenic boat tour is an experience that I will never forget.