Where to stay in Orlando North:
The Westin in Lake Mary is a beautiful clean hotel that is decorated in luxury. Front desk staff were friendly and made check in very easy. The rooms are spacious and beds comfortable. Check in is at 3pm and they offer complimentary wi-fi. Their outdoor pool is heated and the fitness studio is big enough that you’ll never have to wait for an exercise machine. You can even bring Fido, your dog, the Westin is dog friendly.
If you’re looking for a hotel with a great location, this has it all. Across the street from the Westin is Colonial Townpark, an outdoor shopping development that offers many dining options such as World of Beers, Chinese takeout, Subway and Crispers to name a few. With various dining options for any budget you can’t go wrong.
There’s also a cigar bar called Corona Cigar Company for the cigar aficionados. If you bring your pet with you while you travel, Colonial Townpark even has a pet hospital. There’s a hair salon, a huge movie theater Amstar 12, an urgent care and a very convenient Publix. This location is perfect if you’d want to drive to Disney a day or two out of your trip and then chillax in the Orlando North area. They are 3 miles from downtown Lake Mary and Seminole towne center mall, 10 minutes from the Central Florida Zoo, 30 minutes from SeaWorld and 45 minutes from Disney World.
If you’re flying in, The Westin Lake Mary is 15 minutes from Sanford International airport and 45 minutes from Orlando International Airport.
Where to eat in Orlando North:
Gator’s Dockside – Lake Mary, Florida
You can’t visit Gator’s and not try the Gator Tail! Yup, we tried it and guess what? It tastes like chicken. I even had my 9 year old try it and he approved. With a ton of options from their varied menu’s, you can’t go wrong. Try wings with over 20 different wing sauce options. Have a sirloin like I did or enjoy a salad. The kids enjoyed the grilled cheese and chicken tenders kids meals. They have pacman video game, motorcyle video games and grab toy claw machines that the kids played while we waited for our food. A perfect place for families to dine at.
Fred’s market – Lake Mary, Florida
Their motto is, slow food fast. Southern Cuisine is served buffet style and is called a MarketTable. Indulge in fried chicken, grilled tilapia, fresh vegetables like collard greens and green beans. Have some casseroles and corn bread and don’t forget the dessert table. Family style eating with beautiful tables that make you feel like you’re dining at a friend’s home. Choose from different eating options such as multi trip to the MarketTable or just one stop. There’s something for everyone and the food is fresh. Visit their site for different daily specials and yes there is a kids MarketTable.
Delicious Pizza in a mellow atmosphere, just like the name of the restaurant says. Mellow Mushroom has many locations across the United States and if you’ve never been to one, it’s a must see. The pizza was DEEEElicious, the appetizers very yummy. The always important kids approved thumbs up was given by our little ones and we could tell by their empty plates. The decor is trippy, and service was great. I had the Holy Shiitake pie and Holy smokes was it good. My husband had the Gourmet white and we were both super pleased. The restaurant also offers hoagies, salads and calzones. We totally recommend this eatery, great for family and meet ups with friends.
