Summer is here and that means it’s time to do something fun! Have you heard of the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour? Read-on to see if this unique boat tour should be on your must-do list.
Fun-fact, it’s the oldest tour in Florida, dating back to 1938! This historic 1-hour boat tour takes place on the pristine Winter Park Chain of Lakes. On this tour you will be on 3 different lakes and go through 2 narrow canals. These narrow canals have been called the Venice of America. While not quite Italy…they are very charming! This is the perfect outing for those looking to get into nature and do some sightseeing.
The Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour is perfect for visitors or locals looking for an easy outing in nature. Just sit back and relax. Your guides make it super comfortable and entertaining!
What can you expect from the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour?
This tour begins at: 312 East Morse Blvd. Winter Park, FL 32789. Just a few blocks from famous Park Avenue. Tours run daily starting at 10 am, with the exception of Christmas Day. The last boat leaves at 4pm. Boats run on the hour. Rates are $20 for adults and $10 for children 2-11. Both rates include tax. They take cash or card. (Bring cash to tip your guide….)
The Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour has multiple boats running at the same time. These are pontoon boats that accomodate 18 people with no overhead cover…so bring your hats and sunglasses!
I would imagine in the summer months, the morning boats will be filling up fast, due to the heat. Boats are filled on a first-come first-served basis. However, if you have a large group, you may call ahead to book. Click here for more info.
On our visit, we arrived around 10:20, planning to get on a 11am departing boat. There is a large (free) parking lot right in front of the check-in and dock area. We were able to get close parking. However, with the amount of boats and people they can accommodate, parking can fill up fast.
When we arrived there was already quite a few people waiting for the 11am tour to start. But we were able to get on one of the 11am boats. They have 3 or 4 boats running at a time. If boats fill up for your preferred time slot, you may have to wait for the next group of outbound boats…but remember, you are not far from Park Avenue. Take a stroll and enjoy yourself!
If you do have to wait for your tour to begin, there is limited covered seating and restrooms on-site. Be aware that if you’re taking children under 6, they will be required to wear a provided lifejacket.
The Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour really is a hidden gem and is great when you’re looking for something different to do. We saw beautiful homes, birds, turtles, and lots of tropical plants. And while you’re enjoying the sights, your tour guide also shares interesting facts about Winter Park’s rich history. We really enjoyed this tour!
After our lovely tour we decided to get some lunch on Park Avenue. We went to one of my favorite places for authentic Italian, Rome’s Flavours, just a few blocks up from the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour. Click here to see this delicious place!
I hope I’ve inspired you to get out and do something different! Orlando and its surrounding areas are full of interesting and fun things to do….so go do them! I’m always looking for unique things to do in and around Orlando. Send me a message or leave me a comment below of your favorite things to do in the City Beautiful!
Thanks for reading! Xx Autumn
