Winter Park Farmers' Market
About
This charming Saturday morning farmers' market has been a Winter Park tradition since 1979, offering families a delightful way to start the weekend. Kids will love sampling fresh seasonal produce, watching live music performances, and exploring the vibrant Central Park setting while parents shop for local goods, artisan baked treats, and handcrafted items from friendly vendors.
Highlights
- ✓Fresh Florida produce including seasonal fruits kids can sample
- ✓Live music performances that create a festive atmosphere
- ✓Artisan baked goods and kid-friendly treats
- ✓Beautiful Central Park location with playground access
- ✓Educational opportunity to meet local farmers and learn about food sources
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early (closer to 8:00 AM) for the best selection and cooler temperatures, especially during Florida's hot summer months
- 2.Bring a wagon or stroller to carry purchases and give little legs a break,the market can get crowded mid-morning
- 3.Pack reusable shopping bags and cash, as some vendors may not accept cards
- 4.Let kids pick out a new fruit or vegetable to try at home,many vendors offer samples to help with decision-making
- 5.After shopping, explore beautiful Central Park right there with its playground and shaded walking paths
Best Time to Visit
Arrive between 8:00-9:30 AM for the best selection before it gets crowded and hot. The market operates year-round on Saturdays, but fall through spring offers the most comfortable weather for browsing with kids.
What to Know
The market is free to attend (bring cash/cards for purchases). Parking is available in nearby lots and street parking around Central Park, but arrives early as it fills up quickly on Saturday mornings.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round every Saturday, rain or shine. Spring brings the best produce variety with strawberries and citrus, while fall features cooler weather perfect for browsing. The market often has special holiday-themed vendors during winter months.
Nearby Eats
Walk to Briarpatch Restaurant (just steps away on Park Avenue) for a family brunch after the market, or grab casual bites at Shake Shack in nearby Winter Park Village if kids need a quick burger fix.
More Activities Near Winter Park
Scenic Boat Tour
This relaxing hour-long pontoon boat cruise is perfect for families seeking a peaceful break from theme park excitement. Kids will love spotting wildlife like herons, turtles, and alligators while gliding past stunning lakefront mansions and through scenic canals on Winter Park's historic chain of lakes.
Ward Park
Ward Park is a picturesque lakefront haven in Winter Park that offers the perfect blend of active play and peaceful relaxation for families. Kids can burn energy on the playground while parents enjoy stunning lake views, then head to the fishing pier to try their luck at catching bass and bluegill. The walking trails and spacious picnic pavilions make it an ideal spot for everything from quick afternoon outings to full-day family celebrations.
Kraft Azalea Garden
Kraft Azalea Garden offers families a serene escape with easy paved walking paths winding through towering cypress trees and colorful azalea blooms along the shores of Lake Maitland. This compact, stroller-friendly garden is perfect for letting little ones explore nature, feed ducks by the water's edge, and burn energy in a safe, beautiful setting without the commitment of a full-day outing.
Hannibal Square Heritage Center
The Hannibal Square Heritage Center offers families a meaningful opportunity to explore Winter Park's African American history through thoughtfully curated exhibits and interactive educational programs. This intimate cultural museum creates an engaging learning environment where children can discover local history through artifacts, photographs, and hands-on activities that bring the past to life in ways young learners can understand and appreciate.