Antiques, boutiques, vintage records, great eats and smooth drinks are just part of the festivities to be found in the Orlando neighborhood known as Ivanhoe Row. This half-mile stretch of Orange Avenue, just north of the downtown area (hang a right at the mini Statue of Liberty), is best known for antiquing, though an eclectic array of shops, restaurants and bars has amassed a loyal following. And the newest is the Imperial Wine Bar and Beer Garden. Amid Washburn Imports, an exotic furniture showroom, sip wine and craft beers at hand-carved tables from Southeast Asia, and take one home with you — most items are for sale. Losing yourself in these entertaining shops takes little effort.
If antiquing is on the agenda, the warehouse-size Elephant Walk Interiors & Antiques (elephantwalkantiques.com) is a can’t-miss. At Boom-Art (407.895.0280), everything from key chains to chairs is hand-painted pop-art style by owners Glenn and Sandy Rogers (ask about their days as circus clowns). Have breakfast, lunch or even dinner at local favorite White Wolf Café. From an alfresco table, you can watch antiquers pass by with their finds.
Winter Park
- Theatre Downtown — A mix of quirky off-Broadway hits and original plays has lured theater lovers here for 22 years. theatredowntown.net
- White Wolf Café — Grab a quick burger or savor a ribeye with a glass of wine while antiques and old-fashioned artwork fight for your attention. whitewolfcafe.com
Orange Avenue
- Rock & Roll Heaven — From Elvis to Ellington, there’s something for every taste. Don’t miss the musical memorabilia scattered about. rock-n-rollheaven.com
- Imperial Bar — The setting exudes friendly sophistication. Bartenders remember your name and regulars become familiar after a few stop-ins. Native brews, such as Tampa’s Cigar City Hillsborough River Dry Stout, are often on tap. imperialwinebar.com
Downtown Orlando
- Lake Ivanhoe Park — Boating and volleyball are favorite activities in this green space, even a winding walkway offers views of Lake Ivanhoe and downtown Orlando. cityoforlando.net
