Winter Park, Academic enclave in Orange County, Florida, United States
Winter Park is a city in Orange County north of Orlando known for its tree-lined streets and campus atmosphere. The area extends across several lakes, with residential neighborhoods spreading along the shores while the center concentrates shops and small restaurants.
David Mizell Jr. acquired a homestead of around 8 acres in 1858 and initially called the settlement Lake View. During the 1880s the place became a winter destination for wealthy families from the north, leading to the renaming.
The name arose in the 1880s when visitors from the north sought refuge here during winter months. Many streets are lined with old oaks whose branches arch over sidewalks and cast shade on cafes and bookstores.
A walk along the main avenue takes around half an hour and passes storefronts and benches under trees. The public library sits slightly outside the center and has parking as well as quiet reading areas.
In May 1981 a sinkhole opened in the western part and grew around 320 feet (100 meters) wide and 90 feet (27 meters) deep within hours. Several vehicles and part of the street disappeared into the hole, which was later filled with sand and clay.
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