When we plan our vacation getaways we often plan around school breaks and holidays typically found in the summer season. This makes it easy for families to get out together and experience some warm weather. However, if you really want to see the majestic features of Winter Park you must visit in the fall season. This time frame is the perfect time of year to experience beautiful outdoor trails and attractions along with family-friendly activities. Take a look at why the fall season is the ideal time to take a Winter Park vacation:
Cool Fall Weather
Our summers seem to keep getting hotter making fall often a time to look forward to. When you visit Winter Park you will find that the fall season is a perfect time for the weather. During your stay visitors can expect temps in the 50s and 60s, perfect light for light sweater weather. These temperatures make sure you get to still enjoy outdoor trails for the explorers. The fall season is also a time of year when Winter Park sees less traffic. We call the fall season our best-kept secret as the town is usually quieter in between the popular summer and winter seasons.
Leaf Peeping
Winter Park gets to see the whole spectrum of the four seasons throughout the year. This means you will notice when fall hits with the changing of the leaves. The treetops in the fall will start to change into vibrant colors including yellow, orange, and red. If you are from the southwest you may not be as familiar with this phenomenon. Head out to see the changing colors for yourself in an activity called leaf-peeping. Don’t let the silly name fool you as you are sure to see other visitors walking the trails staring up at the trees.
Annual Winter Park Autumn Art Festival
Another reason why the fall sets itself apart from the rest of the year in Winter Park is the selection of fall-exclusive events. This includes the Annual Winter Park Autumn Art Festival, a local favorite here in the city. The event features Florida-only artists and takes place the second weekend of October each year. The Winter Park Autumn Art Festival features a sidewalk show with high-quality art and live entertainment. You will find the event festivities to take place at Central Park with plenty of space all around. The event is absolutely free to attend and is typically open 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM for both days of admission.
Scenic Gondola Ride
Winter Park is often most busy during the winter where you will find some incredible ski conditions here in the mountains. Taking the ski lifts will take you to the top of premier ski slopes. During the off seasons, the mountain features a scenic gondola ride that will bring you to the top of our tallest peaks over 10,000 feet in elevation. This scenic ride is a great way to look at all the leaves changing color and the local peaks still covered in snow at the top. The gondola rides are offered daily so you will always have a chance to make your way to the top.
Mountain Oktoberfest
The fall season is also the time of year when one of our favorite events takes place: Mountain Oktoberfest. You have probably enjoyed Oktoberfest at some location before as this German-rooted tradition is now a world-celebrated event. Mountain Oktoberfest takes place here in Winter Park to celebrate all things with German heritage. Stop by to enjoy a stein of your favorite German beer or grab a freshly grilled brat. Mountain Oktoberfest is always a family-friendly event with plenty of games and live music to enjoy. The event takes place at Winter Park Resort where you can take the Super Gauge Express ride up to the festival grounds at Lunch Rock. Beautiful views and German beer are all you need at Mountain Oktoberfest!
Last Chance at the Lake
You can still enjoy some time at the local lakes if you visit early in the fall. Head over to Grand Lake where the Grand Lake Marina offers canoe, SUP, and kayak rentals until the end of September. Trail Ridge Marina offers rentals through the first week of October. The lakes are always chilly so make sure to layer up. With that being said you can find yourself being one of the only individuals on the lake in the fall making it a truly special experience!
More Time this Fall Season
The fall season is the best time of year here in Winter Park for those looking to enjoy the activities without the summer and winter crowds. Find your favorite Winter Park vacation rental today and see what all the fuss is all about!