Orlando is full of amazing hotels and attractions, many of which you know. There are several, however that are just far enough off the beaten path, that make it like stepping into another world, without leaving Central Florida. One of the most exquisite, and charming hotels in Central Florida is The Alfond Inn, located in Winter Park. The Alfond Inn is more than just a vacation hotel, it’s an experience that incorporates all the best parts of the community, and rolls them into a guest experience like none other in Orlando.
Known by only some of Orlando and Winter Park residents, the Alfond Inn is a hidden gem off the main stretch of the popular dining and shopping area of Winter Park. It opened back in 2013, and is owned by Rollins College. One of its’ main attractions of the hotel is the Alfond Collection of Contemporary Art, a 100-plus piece collection of contemporary art that was donated to the Cornell Fine Arts Museum. The collection includes work of paintings, photographs, sculptures and alternative visual forms from contemporary artists and photographers such as Tracey Emin, Joseph Kosuth, Steve McCurry and Maya Lin.Alfond Collection is part of the Cornell Fine Arts Museum at Rollins College, which has one of the oldest and most distinguished fine arts collections in Florida.Tours of the collection, are offered daily at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Another major attraction of the hotel is it’s culinary experience, Hamilton’s Kitchen. The restaurant is a throwback to the time when families would gather around the hearth and talk, laugh and of course eat. The restaurant boasts a southern cuisine, with all the modern, and gourmet preparations. New Head Chef, Marc Kusche oversees all of the special dining events that take place throughout the year. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as brunch on Sundays. One of the most interesting things of note is their brunch which includes a build your own mimosa and bloody Mary bar.
Several times a month, the hotel also offers a moderately priced high tea, which is one of the very few high teas in Orlando. Hamilton’s also offers a Kitchen Tasting Menu, which is a full four course meal with a taste of many of the restaurants specialties. For those wanting a more intimate setting, the Chef’s Table offers a five course setting, with wine exclusive pairings.
The hotel is located off the beaten path, and away from the hustle and bustle of the Orlando tourist spots. It is still close enough to the attractions to make a great vacation destination, without being in the middle of everything.
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For more information, including reservations, visit the official website by clicking here!
Offsite Orlando is an ongoing column in which we explore the areas outside of the Orlando theme parks, and get into the best places that surround one of the greatest tourist destinations in the world.
