Page 32 - DreamScapes Magazine | Fall/Winter 2023

Savour the Flavours of CENTRAL FLORIDA
BY SUSAN B. BARNES
From theme parks to world-class dining and an upcoming anniversary for a cer- tain preschooler’s favourite character, a visit to Central Florida this fall and winter will quickly show you why this part of the Sunshine State is known as “Florida’s Sweetest Spot.”
A PIRATE’S LIFE
If you and your family have ever wondered what it’s like to live a pirate’s life, wonder no more: in Winter Haven, the brand new Pirate River Quest is making a splash at LEGOLAND Florida Resort. The swashbuckling, family- friendly boat ride sails past natural waterways with Calico Jade, the newest LEGO pirate friend. The one-of-a-kind canal tour follows an all-new story filled with exotic LEGO creatures, including bright flamingos, mischievous mon- keys and even a kraken.
PHOTO: VISIT CENTRAL FLORIDA
also in Winter Haven, where a seasonal menu
Central Florida’s premier restaurants, locals FOR THE FOODIE
is served alongside a curated wine selection.
know to find a spot at the bar to enjoy tapas The small-town charm around Central Florida’s
At Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille, this Lake-
before dinner.
communities is due in large part to charming
land staple for over 20 years teases diners’
The sweet tooth really gets a work out at local restaurants that serve not only a variety of
taste buds with spicy New Orleans cuisine. In
The Cookie Jar Bakeshop & Eatery in Bartow, dishes, but also a heaping serving of warm wel-
addition to Creole, Cajun and other southern
where desserts are baked daily. Over in Lake- comes and sweet, southern hospitality.
flavours blended to perfection, Harry’s menu
land, there’s a pair of yummy options in the Step back in time at Andy’s Igloo Drive-In
also features pastas, hamburgers and steaks,
treats department. Try Born & Bread Bake- Restaurant, a Winter Haven favourite for over
not to mention its signature Oreo beignets.
house that specializes in slow dough, and 70 years. Comfort foods like hamburgers, fried
Now if you’re hankering for international
Charlie’s Mini Donuts in Lakeland. If you’d chicken, thick milkshakes and ice cream sun-
dining like Cuban, Spanish and Peruvian
rather go for a sipping experience, check out daes are all on the menu. For dishes that feature
cuisine head to another Lakeland dining
citrus-centric microbreweries, which are all locally sourced ingredients, opt for Nutwood,
favourite, Nineteen61. Considered one of
the rage in Central Florida. There’s Front Page Brewing Co. in Bartow, Grove Roots Brewing Co. in Winter Haven and Swan Brewing in
Lakeland.
A PARTY FOR PEPPA PIG
Finally, it’s hard to believe, but our favourite pink pig is already celebrating its second year of starring at her very own Peppa Pig Theme Park in Winter Haven. Stay tuned to learn about ways to celebrate everyone’s favourite preschooler. DS
Travel Planner
For more information on Central Florida, visit visitcentralflorida.org
32 DREAMSCAPES FALL/WINTER 2023