Winter Park, Florida is a senior vacation and travel destination located in the midst of beautiful lakes and scenery.

Winter Park FL History

Chartered in 1887, the City was originally developed as a winter resort for wealthy Northerners seeking refuge from the harsh winters and a tranquil place to rest and relax. The City was first named Lakeview in 1858 and re-named Osceola in 1870. Eleven years later, the name “Winter Park” was chosen by its founders. Loring Chase and Oliver Chapman decided during an informal discussion that they wanted the name to be something about a park in winter. Thus, they chose the name Winter Park.

Rollins College, the oldest college in Florida and the nation's premiere liberal arts college, was founded in Winter Park in 1885 by New England Congregationalists who sought to bring their style of liberal arts education to Florida.

In 1981, the Winter Park sinkhole nearly swallowed an entire city block, including automobiles and a house. The City stabilized the shore of the sinkhole and added landscaping so that the area resembles a small lake.

Winter Park Florida – Site of the Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival

Today, the City is famous for the Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival, which draws over 250,000 visitors each year to enjoy art and music. Senior tourists come to enjoy Winter Park's beautiful lakes, warm temperatures and natural surroundings. They also enjoy great restaurants, museums, outdoor activities, entertainment, theater, festivals and more.