In today’s modern fast-paced world of car travel, we are often obsessed with finding the “quickest route.” After all, who wants to wait in traffic? We fine-tune our GPS devices to shave off mere minutes while bypassing the winding secondary roads in favor of the sterile, high-speed efficiency of local interstates. But in the United States, if you only stick to the tried and true highways, you are missing out. You are missing the real story. The soul of the town, which is not always found on the path of the least resistance.
Believe it or not, traveling through America’s towns is most rewarding when it is experienced in the “slow lanes.” Sometimes this means seeing the countryside.
The country is designed for the wanderer, the person who is willing to pull over just because they see a hand-painted sign that promises a patron the best cherry pie in the county. Now, doesn’t that sound like a worthy venture?
Redefining Satisfaction
Recently we travelled to East Orlando, FL. Now I know Orlando is known for Disney World. Millions of vacationers fly in each year to ride the rides, meet Mickey Mouse, and see the sites, but this trip we wanted to try something different. So, we headed out to smaller areas like Avalon Park, Waterford, Stoneybrook, and Chuluota. And the good news is we were not disappointed.
Avalon Park
Avalon Park, a master-planned community, was our first stop. With a walkable downtown area and plenty of restaurants and shops to chose from, this was right up our alley. We spent the afternoon hanging out by the lake, walking and eating some delicious pizza courtesy of Pesaro’s Pizza. This area has always been one of our favorites. Especially when they had Barnies Coffee & Tea. Our oldest daughter, Chelsea, loved bringing her higschool friends there. Who can resist 2 for 1 “Cappy Hour”? Those were the days.
Stoneybrook
It seems like only yesterday when Stoneybrook was building out the business office and retail space. But at the time of the build, so few businesses could take advantage of it because the economy was still recovering from the housing and credit crisis. Recently, an accountant friend of ours relocated her accounting firm, CPA Accounting and Tax Experts, to East Orlando. Like Avalon Park, Stoneybrook offers lots of places to eat and shop. However, if you are into golfing, be sure to check out the Stoneybrook East golf course.
Chuluota
Many of you may be wondering how Chuluota makes this list. But I have two words for you, and it’s “ice cream.” The Twistee Treat is a Florida staple in my view. You cannot miss them because their building is built like the biggest ice cream cone that you ever did see. They have lots of options and something for everyone. So, if you are looking for a sweet treat, this is a must-stop. My favorite is their praline sundae with extra caramel. It’s been a while since I had one, but whenever I do, I wish I ordered two. I like it that much.
Conclusion: The Tapestry of the Trail
East Orlando experienced tremendous growth during the housing boom. The area has still maintained its charm and appeal. And with the Waterford Plaza in the area, you have access to all the big box stores and corporate life. But hidden in 32828 is a community of resilient families building for a brighter tomorrow.