The Central Florida city of Winter Park has been called the Venice of America, with its connecting lakes, prominent among which is Lake Virginia. Take a scenic tour on the water or rent a kayak to explore the 12 miles (19 kilometers) of the main lakes in the pretty area.
During the leisurely 1-hour narrated tour on an open boat, view Rollins College on Lake Virginia. The liberal arts educational institution’s campus reaches to the shoreline. Notice the attractive buildings with their Mediterranean-style architecture. Look for the public beach nearby and stop back later to enjoy a swim.
It will become very apparent during your tour why this area is considered similar to Venice. Pretty canals join the lakes. Glide under low bridges carrying city traffic overhead and pass private residences with boat garages on the canals. Notice the numerous mansions and their manicured properties along the tour that add to the stately views.
Get to know some of your fellow travelers. The boat ride is relatively private, as the vessel seats only 18 passengers. Rent a paddleboard or kayak, if you prefer, at Dinky Dock Park on Lake Virginia, near the Cornell Fine Arts Museum.
Tours originate and finish at the boat tour’s landing spot on East Morse Boulevard. Catch one of the tours that leave from mid morning to mid afternoon every hour. Tours operate every day except Christmas. Excursions with wheelchair access are also available.
The charm of old buildings along Lake Virginia and the other lakes has earned Winter Park’s downtown area a respected position on the National Registry of Historic Places.
