If you’re ready to break away from the mayhem of theme parks and attractions in Orlando, heading off to some community activities could be just what you need to relax and recharge. Orlando is home to a number of farmers’ markets, many that are unknown to the average visitor, but a weekly favorite of the locals. When you’re looking for fresh, organic, or locally grown produce and flowers, here’s where you’ll find some of the best farmers’ markets in Orlando:
Winter Park Farmers Market
200 W. New England Avenue, Winter Park
Head north of Orlando to the charming town of Winter Park, and you’ll forget that you’re anywhere near Disney territory immediately. Winter Park is home to luxury boutiques, gift shops, and a number of gourmet restaurants but it’s also the place to pick up some fresh coffee and produce on an early Saturday morning. It’s an outdoor market where you’ll find plenty of freshly baked croissants, seafood, fruits of the season, and bouquets of orchids and seasonal flowers. Even if you’re only exploring, this is well worth a visit just for the experience.
Lake Eola Farmers Market
Lake Eola, Orlando
Every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Sunday Eola Market fills up with booths of local artisans and giant tables covered with locally grown produce and baked treats. This is the place to find some of downtown Orlando’s food vendors setting up shop for the day, giving you the perfect opportunity to sample away. The market has been running for years at this beautiful park, and you can spend the rest of the day exploring the area at your leisure.
Central Florida Farmers’ Market
4603 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando
If you’re in the mood for a 4 a.m. shopping fix, the Central Florida Farmers market will be your top choice. This one features over 200 vendors at the Central Florida Fairgrounds. You’ll find more than just food here; books, local art, antiques, and old music are just few other items to rummage through. If you’re not quite the early riser, the market does run until 3 p.m. on Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sundays.
Celebration Farmers’ Market
Celebration, Orlando
Celebration is a quaint little town that’s a ‘designated Disney community’ just a short drive from Disney parks. You’ll find lots of interesting shops and restaurants to explore in downtown Celebration, but the Farmers’ market is held each Sunday morning from 9 a. m to 3 p.m. during the fall and winter months. Pick up your seasonal vegetables, freshly baked goods from the local bakery, or just a few collectible art pieces as a souvenir.
Farmers Market of Downtown Kissimmee
Darlington Street, Kissimmee
If you want to save your weekends for other attractions, you might enjoy the Farmers’ Market on a weekday instead; the market in Downtown Kissimmee is open from 7a .m. to 1 p.m. on Thursdays, and is a great place to pick up fresh produce, oranges, and fresh flowers of the season. Kissimmee is just a ten minute drive from most Disney resorts and hotels, and the area is home to many cafes and independently owned shops as well.
From the beautiful venue at Lake Eola to the classic Farmers’ Market in Celebration, there are many great places to pick up fresh produce, flowers and baked treats year round in Orlando. Head to any of these popular locations for a roundup of local goods and foods you won’t find anywhere else!
