When deciding on the best restaurants in Orlando, there is something to be said about a place with the perfect ambience. A restaurant should provide a certain level of comfort, good food, and great service. Moreover, an added bonus to any dining experience would be a nice view. In our opinion, while vacationing a restaurant should be a dining adventure and not just a place to grab a quick bite to eat. The best restaurants have the power to transform a meal into an event and create lasting memories to be passed and shared for generations. The following restaurants are the best restaurants in Orlando.
The Best Restaurants
The Boathouse
1620 Bueno Vista Drive, Orlando, FL 32830
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl The Boathouse Entrance
The Boat House is a must when visiting Disney World. This restaurant is located in Disney Springs on the Disney canals. The Boathouse is a great place for the two of you or the whole family. Defined as a sophisticated waterfront steak and seafood restaurant, it will meet all your checkmarks. Although the restaurant is a little on the pricier side, it still offers an amazing experience you will be sure to enjoy.
The Boathouse is decorated in the sense of a true old fashion boathouse with actual vintage boats hanging from the ceiling. Moreover, the dining booths are in the shape of vintage boat hulls and the walls are lined with unique paintings. This upscale restaurant does not miss a beat with its beautiful nautical ambience, great food, and its waterfront location on the famous Disney canals. This unique one-of-a-kind restaurant also has a large outdoor seating area that allows for waterfront dining.
Furthermore, the restaurant offers its guests the opportunity to have the thrilling experience of a guided tour in a vintage Amphicar. The tour is roughly 25 minutes long and it takes you around the surrounding landmarks. The restaurant has a private collection of these vintage Amphicar and you can admire them as you walk around their outdoor docks giving you an outdoor museum feel.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Amphicar Boat Launch
Overall, this restaurant provides you with a cozy experience. When you embark on your adventure at the Boathouse, be sure to check out their gift shop for a nice souvenir that will remind you of the good times. The gift shop has a wide selection of clothing apparel, including sunglasses, tee shirts, as well as hats. The gift shop is a nice addition to the restaurant as it is cozy and offers a nautical theme that makes it fun to just browse around.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Rainforest Café Entrance
The Rainforest Café, is a jungle theme inspired restaurant that is a favorite for the kids and young adults alike. This restaurant dining room is a true adventure as it transports you to the rainforest with its elaborate decorations and animatronic animals that move and growl throughout your dining experience. The kids will have a great time admiring the different animals and fish tanks throughout the restaurant.
The restaurant resembles walking through a jungle at night with a starry night display on the ceiling. The Rainforest café ceiling is animated to resemble a starry night in the jungle. This truly adds to the ambience and gives you a ride like sense while you enjoy your meal. The clouds move and the stars twinkle on and off making it a one of a kind experience.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl The Rainforest café ceiling is animated to resemble a starry night in the jungle.
Furthermore, the walls are covered in rocks, waterfalls, and different animatronic animals that you would find in the jungle. We felt like we were eating inside a rainforest terrarium or the Jurassic World set. This is the type of dining adventure that will stay in your memory for a long time.
Even though the food is a little on the greasier side, hence the popularity among young kids, there are healthier options too. This would be a great option for kids and should not be missed as it is incredibly unique experience that the kids will love and remember.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Animatronic elephant that moves throughout your dining experience. Next to it is a massive saltwater fish tank with various species of coral reef fish
Those are the best options for Orlando restaurants in our opinion. They have great food, ambience, and are even kid friendly. This next trip to Orlando make sure you make a stop or a reservation at one or both places and enjoy the magic of great meals and ambience.
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Where to stay while visiting Orlando and Disney World
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Since Orlando’s inception of Disney World, Orlando has become a mecca for large glamorous hotels, conference centers, and an abundance of lavish outdoor malls and attractions. The restaurants, shopping, and attractions are all world renown, giving everyone in the family plenty to do. In this article we are going to explore the best resorts in Orlando.
JW Marriott Grande Lakes
4040 Central Florida Parkway
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
JW Marriott Grande Lakes is by far our favorite hotel to stay in when visiting Orlando and the world-famous Disney World. What makes the JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes the best hotel in Orlando is that the hotel literally has it all. From luxurious rooms that have balconies overlooking their amazing pool area, to being high up enough to see the Disney World fireworks in the distance.
The JW Marriott Grande Lakes is located on a private 500-acre compound that is shared with the Ritz Carlton. The resort compound consists of the Ritz Carlton 18-hole golf course that surrounds the 500-acre property. This hotel compound offers an abundance of amenities including 7 restaurants, 3 pools, a lazy river, kid care, golfing, fishing, bike rentals, and complimentary shuttle rides to Disney Parks, and Sea World.
The resort grounds are exquisite with lush gardens, manicured lawns and the most amazing water features with countless waterfalls, making the pool a tropical oasis. The resort also has many pathways that are surrounded by beautiful tropical flowers and plants. The maintained grounds provide a true tropical vacation feeling and leave you in a relaxed state of mind.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Floral Pathway
We stayed at the JW Marriot for three nights prior to heading off to our wedding. Upon departure we felt refreshed and recovered from the stressful wedding planning. This place has something about it that can place you in the most relaxing state of mind. It is so relaxing that even little bunny rabbits frequent the resort and help themselves to an enjoyable snack from their onsite gardens.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Relaxed Bunny
The relaxing atmosphere makes the stay enjoyable during the day, as well as at night. At night the grounds are illuminated making evening walks around the pool area spectacular. As we went for our evening walks around their pool area we felt a calmness that was worlds away from the hustle and bustle of everyday stresses.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Relaxing Outdoor Fireplace
The rooms in the resort also contribute to the relaxed atmosphere. Each resort room is climate controlled with shower tub combos. The bathrooms are extra large, about double of a standard hotel bathroom size. The counters have a marble surface giving it a polished and distinguished look, and the showers are very spacious.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Standard Bathroom
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Spacious Shower
The rooms are carpeted and come with 65 inch HDTVs, which add to the comfort and relaxation you will receive when vacationing here. At night the rooms all have soft lamps, which create a cozy feeling as you look out at the illumined pool and grounds. Click the link for a room tour.
The JW Marriot has a wide assortment of different dining options that will accommodate any palate. From Starbucks to an award winning 2022 Michelin recommended fine dining Italian restaurant, Primo. There literally is something for everyone. The JW Marriott even has their own sustainable farm, garden and apiary that supplies the restaurants at both the Ritz Carlton and JW Marriot.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Outdoor Seating in the Main Entrance Lounge
JW Marriot Citron, an American Brasserie
The JW Marriot Citron is a great early morning option for breakfast as they serve all your favorites. They have a breakfast buffet as an early morning option as well. The breakfast buffet is hands down the best breakfast buffet I have ever been to. The food is delicious and fresh. They have everything you could ever want to start your morning off right. From handcrafted breads and breakfast pastries to chef prepared omelets and waffles right in front of you. This buffet is a little bit on the pricier side but if you have the time to enjoy a sit-down breakfast, this is the spot for you. All items are prepared in house and they offer the best jams and even maple syrup from Vermont. There is something for everyone and sometimes a little too much, so pace yourself.
JW Marriott Quench
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Quench Bar and Grill from the Pool
JW Marriott Quench is a poolside bar and grill located right next to the lazy river. This tropical setting restaurant offers an open air outdoor seating area next to the pool. The bar and grill has several fans to circulate air and a roof that provides plenty of shade for those warmer days. The restaurant has a full bar with tropical flavored drinks that can be consumed at the restaurant or at the pool with appropriate glassware. Quench’s menu offers burgers, salads, wraps and other casual fares that can be also be delivered to you at the pool if you choose not to dine in.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl One of the many JW Pool Lounge Areas
Quench Bar and Grill is a great option for families, especially if children get hungry at the pool. Parents can order while the children play in the pool and have the food delivered right to their lounge chair, which will provide convenience and ease for families with little ones. This is the way pool time should be enjoyed.
Below are just a few of the enticing options this restaurant has to offer.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Hummus Appetizer
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Poke Bowl
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Turkey Club with Fries
Next on our list is the one and only The Ritz Carlton. Just staying at the Ritz makes one feel like royalty or a celebrity. This hotel is located adjacent to the JW Marriott and shares 500 acres of grounds. This hotel will define a whole new level of luxury for you and your family.
Ritz Carlton Grande Lakes
4012 Central Florida Parkway
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Ritz Carlton Orlando Entrance
This upscale resort has a lot to offer its guests. Although it is a bit on the pricey side, you can find deals using Marriott points and booking during the shoulder season months such as May, August, September, October, and November. The resort offers many of the same amenities as the neighboring JW Marriott including daily shuttle rides to and from Disney World, SeaWorld, and other area theme parks. The resort acts as a compound and shares all its amenities and restaurant services with guests from both hotels. This is an added bonus as you can be a guest at one resort and have the opportunity to frequent the other resort as well. This will give you options for pools and more restaurants to chose from daily.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Similar to the JW Marriott, the Ritz Carlton provides a relaxing atmosphere with a spa-like feel. As you walk through various areas of the resort, you will notice the attention to detail in their designs and setup of the resort. Upon entry into this resort your mind and senses are transferred to vacation mode. The Ritz Carlton does an exceptional job at making you feel special, and their level of service is phenomenal.
The Ritz has a spectacular pool with pool side dining available. Some of the options the dining service offers would be their poolside restaurant BLEU, which provides its guests with shade and TVs while they enjoy their lunch. In addition, the restaurant can bring your meal right to your lounge chair poolside. Moreover, the pool attendants provide you and everyone in your family with a towel and they will literally tuck you into your chair and provide an umbrella if you so desire. The pool is a lot quieter than the neighboring JW Marriott’s pool, allowing you and your family or significant other to enjoy the lush landscaping in a more peaceful setting.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Ritz Carlton Resort seen from Ritz Carlton Pool
In addition to pools, the resort offers programs such as the Ritz kids. This program immerses children ages 4 to 12 into environmentally inspired day care activities. The program provides hands on activities promoting conservation and agriculture. Furthermore, the program gives parents the opportunity to have a few hours away from their kids. This amenity comes in handy for couples who are on their anniversary and want to bring their children along.
Overall, the resort and the amenities make for a very restful stay. The service is fabulous, and they do not miss a moment to impress you or pamper you. There is plenty to do and they offer something for everyone. There are numerous restaurants on site and a large room service menu. I would highly recommend this hotel for anyone seeking some relaxation and fond memories.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Complimentary Anniversary Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Marriott Royal Palms
8404 Vacation Way
The Marriott Royal Palms hotel is in the Marriott World Center compound. Although I was only staying at this hotel for a night while visiting family, the room and its size were impressive. This hotel offers 2-bedroom villas that are approximately 1250 square feet. The room rates are very reasonable for its location and size of villa that you receive. This hotel would be ideal for a family of 4 as this villa offers two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a full laundry, and a full kitchen that is stocked with dishware and utensils in case you want to cook. The resort rooms also provide a living room, dining room and outdoor seating “lanai”. The hotel sits adjacent to Hawk’s Landing Golf Club, which is affiliated with the Marriott Orlando World Center.
The pictures below will give you an idea as to what to expect inside the 2-bedroom villas that are offered at Marriott Royal Palms. This is a great option for the small family who wants to be comfortable and spread out. The hotel also offers daily shuttle rides to Disney World, which is provided through the Marriot World Center. This resort is also in close proximity to Disney Springs.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl View from Lanai
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Second bedroom with Second BathroomPHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Second bedroom with Queen bedPHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Living Room
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Primary bathroom with hot tub
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Laundry Room
So there you have it the best resorts in Orlando and Disney. Each resort offers free shuttle rides, and plenty of things to do on your day off from the theme parks. The resorts have incredible compounds filled with amazing pools, golf and plenty of entertainment for all ages.
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Home of the Famous Mouse, Stylish Resorts, & Great Restaurants
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Every kid’s dream vacation would probably be to see Disney World. This should not stop at the child’s dream as Orlando and Disney World have much to offer for all age groups, especially adults. This is exactly what makes Orlando so great as it offers so many different activities for everyone. There is just something magical about a trip to Orlando.
Orlando hosts the most iconic theme park in the World. Located in Central Florida, Orlando also has great weather year-round making it an ideal vacation spot for the northern traveler. Since Orlando’s inception of Disney World, it has become a mecca for large glamorous hotels, conference centers, and an abundance of lavish outdoor malls and attractions. The restaurants, shopping, and attractions are all world renown giving everyone in the family plenty to do. So lets go ahead and explore Orlando and let the magic begin.
Where to Find the Magic in Orlando
Disney World
PHOTO: Zichuan Han Magic Kingdom fireworks and laser show at night
The world-famous Disney World is as impressive as it is massive. This theme park has it all, including ridiculous crowds of people. Therefore, my suggestion is to pace yourself. I would try not to see everything in one day, because it will be exhausting, and it will not give you the fondest of memories. Each theme park has its own unique identity.
The four main parks Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios are connected by an intricate bus system. This can be hard to navigate at first, but maps are located throughout the park. Other than buses there are other forms of transportation such as a monorail and ferries that can take you to certain areas of the park. For instance, when we entered the main gate, we took a ferry to Magic Kingdom which was a little crowded but fun. A Monorail system goes from some of the Disney resorts to Magic Kingdom and Epcot, making it much more convenient if you are staying in Disney World.
All in all, Disney World is one of those must see attractions. The kids will be amazed, and you will be too. I would recommend giving yourself this experience as it is world renowned and nothing in the world can compare to the true Disney World and how massive and amazing it is.
Epcot
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Walkway bridge in Epcot
I like Epcot because I like to eat, and they offer flavors and food from all around the world, along with lush gardens, a butterfly house and a little more relaxed scene compared to the other parks.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Epcot butterfly house
Hollywood Studios
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Hollywood Studios Main Street
My other favorite park is Hollywood Studios. Hollywood Studios transports you back to the golden years of Hollywood, giving you a peek back in time. This park is designed to look like a classic Hollywood studios boulevard from the mid-20th century. The architecture is amazing along with the neon lights and old fashion street lanterns throughout the park.
The Magical world of Disney Springs
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Disney Springs
When visiting the Orlando area, Disney Springs is a must when visiting Orlando, FL. The best part is you do not need to buy a ticket to enter. This large outdoor upscale shopping mall has some of the best restaurants and shopping you can find. They offer a wide variety of great places to eat and shop. This was my wife and her sister in laws favorite part of the trip. If shopping is not your thing then you will be impressed by the manicured lawns, gardens, water features and assortment of activities happening around you.
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Where to Explore the Best Shops while in Dunedin, FL
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Dunedin is a quaint city on the Gulf of Mexico that has many areas to explore and enjoy. Furthermore, Dunedin has a special culture that really gives travelers that relaxed and comfy feeling. The culture can be attributed to the many restaurants and shops that dot the landscape of Dunedin. Despite Dunedin’s proximity to large scale cities such as Tampa, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg, this city has a small-town charm. This article will discuss where to find the Best Places to Shop in Dunedin.
What makes Dunedin so charming are the elements of Dunedin, especially its downtown area. Dunedin is a city with an abundance of sidewalks ,which connect the many shops, restaurants and businesses to the nearby neighborhoods. Moreover, the sidewalks make leisurely strolling throughout the city much more enjoyable for the mindful traveler.
Sidewalks are important because they can make the people of the city and tourists feel more connected. Also, if you are traveling with a large group or have small children, sidewalks can come in very handy. Additionally, sidewalks allow you to see things from a slower paced perspective. This is what makes Dunedin such an enjoyable place to shop and explore.
Layfayette & Rushford is a charming home goods store on Broadway street. This store sells many unique items that can serve as home décor, holiday décor, or personal care. They even have a baby section for that little bundle of joy you have or are expecting.
PHOTO: Nina Gradwohl
The shop has many unique souvenirs that will remind you of your trip to Dunedin, Florida and the surrounding area. Whether you are looking for an ornament for your Christmas tree, or a tropical decoration for your home, you will find it at Layfayette & Rushford.
At the time of our visit, my wife was two months pregnant and I had a difficult time separating her from the baby section. She was drawn in by the very unique home decorations. This was probably our favorite store to peruse as there really is something for everyone, from Holiday décor to personal care.
PHOTO: Nina Gradwohl
The above picture represents the ornaments selection the store offers. They are unique and one of a kind, representing the Christmas season and the Florida culture
PHOTO: Nina Gradwohl
The store has a wide selection of home goods, gifts and seasonal décor. The store is laid out in an organized fashion that it neat, orderly and clean.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl This display window shows you the unique characteristics and personality that you will find in Dunedin, FL.
Celtic Shop of Dunedin
Gift Shop
354 Main Street
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Dunedin would not be the city it is today without its Celtic heritage, and what better place to find a little piece of Celtic heritage than the Celtic shop of Dunedin. The shop is right off of Main Street and the Pinellas Trial. The products in the shop represent traditional quality craftsmanship and Celtic heritage. Most of the merchandise is imported from Ireland, Wales, and Scotland. This could be considered a general store of Celtic products ranging from food to apparel.
My wife and I explored the store for a while and found some one-of-a-kind home decorations. We feel that this was another great store as the items are unique and difficult to find elsewhere, which makes for a more memorable experience. On a side note, every store we visited also seemed to have a children’s section, which to me says they promote families and community.
The Best Place to Shop for Books
Back in the Day Books
Book store
355 Main Street
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
You cannot have a nice holiday trip without a stop at the local bookstore. This bookstore is one that will not disappoint. The bookstore is clean, well-organized and has those lovely nooks and crannies that only a true bookstore has. My wife and I love books, and bookshops like this one make us feel right at home.
Furthermore, we found that there was a wide selection of books ranging from popular to some of the rarer books. They even have a robust children’s section for your new or growing family. This store is another tribute to the unique and hominess of Dunedin, FL.
PHOTO: Nina Gradwohl
The shelves are traditional warm wooden shelves that create a gentle ambience that is inviting and comforting.
PHOTO: Nina Gradwohl
The Children’s section is designed to promote reading with its numerous chairs spread out. It is also designed to create a calm ambience that encourages picking up a book and perusing through it while parents or other siblings are looking around.
Our House
Gift shop
475 Main Street
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Our House is another wonderful shop that has exceptional gifts. This store offers some of the larger home items such as lamps, rugs, and even outdoor garden ornaments. Luckily, we are maxed out at our home on the large items, or we would have found ourselves decorating our home. They also have clothing, purses, and other apparel for women. This is great in case you forget to bring enough clothes for your trip. Furthermore, they have locally made jewelry and necklaces, which also make great souvenirs.
PHOTO: Nina Gradwohl
In addition, to the home décor they also offer candles and diffusers to give that added tropical vibe right in your own home. Furthermore, they have a nice selection of artwork that would go beautifully in any home and serve as another reminder of your travels.
Conclusion
Well, those are the best shops in Dunedin, FL. The above-mentioned shops are ones that we personally visited and feel that the quality of their products, ambience and environment would be conducive to a mindful traveler bringing joy to your trip. Every vacation allows us the opportunity to engage in some sort of shopping for keepsakes, reminders, and other items of interest to bring home with us and build upon our family’s memories over the years. In addition to great shops, there are a lot of wonderful parks in Dunedin to visit along with many great restaurants. So, with that being said, Enjoy your journey and be mindful in this quaint city on the Gulf of Mexico.
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Copyright (2024-2025) TravelingMindfully All Rights Reserved
Where to Eat Breakfast, Find a Baked Pretzel and Enjoy Gelatin
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Dunedin is an adorable town on the Gulf of Mexico. What makes Dunedin such a unique place is its small-town feel, which is emulated throughout the restaurant culture. Furthermore, the town is easily navigated by foot, providing you with access to all the great restaurants and treat shops that dot the landscape.
What I found to be of interest was how unique the dining options were. Many of the restaurants and shops follow the culture by offering a wide assortment of places to eat and places to find a tasty treat. Usually, coastal towns offer your typical margarita and fried seafood or grilled burger. Not saying that we all do not love a nice grilled burger, but getting more than what is expected is most certainly a treat. This is where Dunedin takes it a step further and gives us a taste of its culture despite its proximity to the beach and the usual beach cuisine.
The following article will guide you in finding some of these unique but delicious places that will give you a more mindful approach to eating in Dunedin, FL.
BestBreakfast
Sandpiper
833 Douglas Avenue
Best Breakfast
PHOTO:Christopher Gradwohl Sandpiper restaurant
The Sandpiper Café is one of the highest rated restaurants in Dunedin, FL. They have the best breakfast in town and offer a beautiful cozy setting to dine in. The Sandpiper opened in 2015 and has been a staple in the Dunedin community ever since. In addition to providing a great meal they also roast their own coffee. This onsite roasting gives the café a distinct authentic feel that will delight any traveler. The following are the breakfast items that we tried during our visit.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl House Skillet
House Skillet – A delicious breakfast skillet that consists of potatoes, tavern ham, red onions, red peppers, Colby Jack cheese, sour cream, that is then topped with a fried egg and sprinkled with scallions. This breakfast skillet has all your favorite makings for the perfect combination of breakfast flavors. I really enjoyed this breakfast selection, especially when paired with hot chocolate.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Veggie Skillet
Veggie Skillet – My wife ordered the veggie skillet and thoroughly enjoyed it. This skillet consists of mushrooms, spinach, Pico de Gallo, red peppers, sour cream, and red onions. It is also topped with a fried egg. My wife ended up pairing her meal with a hot chocolate as well, which was perfect on a cooler morning.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Hot Chocolate
Hot Chocolate – This delicious beverage was a warm welcome to a chilly morning. The hot chocolate was served in a coffee mug with steamed milk and a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Delicious! Normally, we would have ordered a specialty latte or coffee drink but since we are pregnant, we wanted to limit the caffeine intake for our little bun in the oven. However, we look forward to trying some of their coffee options after our little bundle of joy is born.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Outdoor Seating
If the weather is right, the Sandpiper has outdoor seating that is tucked away on the side and behind the restaurant. They have umbrellas and large oak trees to provide shade for their patrons. This is a nice option as you can enjoy Florida’s lovely weather while you enjoy your meal.
Best Pretzel
Lane’s Lemonade
349 Main Street
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Lane’s Lemonade Restaurant
My wife and I love a good pretzel, and we were ecstatic when we stumbled upon Lane’s Lemonade while strolling through the downtown of Dunedin. At first glance you may think you are looking at a box car that should be a part of a train, but it is actually a restaurant. This is a unique twist on an outdoor restaurant that serves cold beverages, ice cream, and pretzels. Lane’s Lemonade is located on the Pinellas Trail and the corner of Main Street in downtown Dunedin.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Lane’s original Lemonade
We had the pleasure of trying various beverages and treats from Lane’s Lemonade, and we found them all to be exquisite. For instance, there is the famous Lane’s Lemonade, which is a refreshing cold beverage that consists of hand squeezed lemons. All their beverages are made using fresh squeezed citrus that is locally sourced from Orlando. The lemonade is a great refreshment for a warm day and it pairs nicely with a warm baked pretzel.
Lane’s Lemonade is not only known for its delicious and refreshing lemonade but also their pretzels. Lane’s Lemonade pretzels are vegan and they are locally sourced with unbleached flour. The pretzel dough is made by a local Romanian family in Largo, FL that has passed the recipe down from generations. Best of all, the pretzels are made fresh daily.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Lanes Lemonade pretzels
One cannot go to Lane’s Lemonade and not enjoy their famous and amazing pretzels. The pretzels are offered in three types of flavors such as salt, cinnamon and sesame. They are a delightful hand rolled pretzel, served warm with a side of mustard, cheese sauce or frosting. I would have to say that my favorite was the sesame pretzel, while my wife preferred her good old original salt pretzel. However, we both also enjoyed the cinnamon pretzel, especially on a cooler day because it reminded us of an autumn day.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Salt Pretzel
In addition to their pretzels, there are several other menu items worth noting. My wife and I enjoyed the following items:
Arnold Palmer lemonade – A perfect union of fresh brewed iced tea and the famous freshly squeezed Lane’s original lemonade mixed to perfection.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Lavender Lemonade
Lavender lemonade (the owner’s and my wife’s favorite) – This delicious beverage is a mixture of lavender flavors and Lane’s own lemonade. Not only does it taste great, but it also looks just as delicious. A definite rare twist to an already refreshing beverage.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Vanilla-Orange Swirl
The orange vanilla swirl soft serve ice cream is the perfect refreshing treat for a warm day. This delicious soft serve had a creamy texture with a real citrus flavored orange taste. The infusion of vanilla and orange was absolutely amazing and an item that we would try again and again. It is served in a cone or cup.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Swedish Coffee
The Swedish Coffee is an ice coffee drink with a splash of lemonade. This was my favorite because it was very refreshing but also gave me a little kick from the coffee. This would be a perfect pick-me-up while walking around town. In case you do not see this item on the menu, most definitely ask for it while placing an order, as it may not always be listed on the menu.
The following are a few of the Seasonal items:
Strawberry shortcake (when strawberries are in season)
Apple crisp (a fall treat)
Graveyard Sundae (around Halloween)
Valentine’s Day pretzels (heart shaped pretzels and available during the month of February)
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Lane’s Lemonade Patio
Patio Seating
Lane’s Lemonade offers a cozy patio to its patrons. This charming patio is fenced in and sits right off the Pinellas Trail. This is nice because it is one of the few patios that is not right on a street, so it provides more of a quiet and intimate dining experience.
To sum it up, Lane’s Lemonade is a great place for a quick snack and refreshing beverage while you are enjoying the quaint and cozy Dunedin downtown excursion. We highly recommend visiting Lane’s Lemonade when you are in town. This is a one-of-a-kind establishment that serves quality and delicious items.
Best Popcorn
Harleys Gourmet Popcorn & Cider
316 Main Street
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Harley’s Gourmet Popcorn & Cider Shoppe
If you are in the mood for a treat that you and your children will love, then make a stop at Harley’s Gourmet Popcorn and Cider. Harley’s is located on Main Street and easily accessible by walking. As soon as you walk in you will be immediately met with a warm aroma of flavors that will instantly transport you to a quaint New England town in the autumn months. This is because the popcorn is made on site daily. So, the warm aroma of popcorn will permeate your senses when you walk by or peruse through the shop. The pleasant smell of popcorn was what pulled us into this little gem on our walk down Main Street.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Harley’s Gourmet Popcorn & Cider Display
This shop has a very unique approach to popcorn, and they make a wide assortment of flavors that you have most likely never even conceived of. Although small, the shop is cozy, warm and extremely inviting. The staff is upbeat and friendly and always offering samples to try. This is great as they have 50 flavors of popcorn to choose from.
They offer different sized bags depending on your consumption needs. Best of all, the bags are easily resealable in case you want to save it for later. This could include the hotel room for that nightly movie with the sounds of the waves caressing the shore in the background or the car ride to your next destination.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Some of our favorites that we tried were The Cider Donut and Salted Caramel.
Cider donut – as the name implies, the popcorn tastes like an actual cider donut and is absolutely delicious. The popcorn is dusted with spiced apple cider powder and tastes amazing. This is the perfect treat for those long days at the beach.
Classic Caramel – a classic old fashion flavor that tastes great with rich buttery caramel and a dash of flaked sea salt added to every popcorn bite. The texture is perfect with the right amount of crunch and soft chewy popcorn in the middle. This is a true classic for a reason. It is delicious!
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Harley’s Gourmet Popcorn & Cider Counter
Harley’s Popcorn and Cider is a great place to entice the kids for a treat while you shop and look around. You could grab a couple of bags and have them munch while you look at some of the unique shops that line the streets of Dunedin. I know I can’t wait to revisit and try some of their other flavors.
Best Gelatin
Gelato Caffé
350 Main Street
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Gelato Caffe Storefront
If you are in the mood for a cold treat, then Gelato Caffe is the place for you. In addition to their gelatin, they offer a wide selection of treats. Furthermore, the Café is clean and the staff is pleasant and attentive.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Gelato flavors
As the store name implies, they offer some of the best Gelatin in the area. The store has a wide variety of flavors. As you can see many of them are citrus flavors such as mango, lemon and raspberry.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Raspberry Gelatin
My wife’s favorite was the Raspberry Gelatin, which was served in a cup with a chocolate wafer. This delectable gelatin was delicious and had an authentic raspberry flavor to it. The wafer was crisp and had a nice crunch and flavor that accompanied the gelatin well.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Truffle Display Case
The Gelato Caffé also has a nice selection of Truffles with a great assortment of flavors. The truffles are well made and are quite sweet, so pace yourself. The truffles are filled with an authentic cream flavor that makes every bite savory. We definitely recommend taking a box with you, as these would be a delicious after-dinner dessert in your hotel room.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Other Unique Treats Display Case
Aside from truffles and gelatin, they also offer other desserts such as fruit flavored slices that resemble the various indigenous tropical citrus fruits that Florida has to offer, as well as other delectable cookies and treats.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Armston Park Water Fountain
Conclusion
So there you have it, our favorite place to eat breakfast, have a mid-afternoon pretzel snack with a refreshing beverage, and a place for popcorn and gelatin. We hope you enjoy these places as much as we did. We feel the quality, service and flavor profile are of exceptional nature and that is why we recommend them to you. Enjoy and don’t forget to Travel Mindfully.
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Nestled along the Gulf Coast of Florida is the charming gulf coast city of Dunedin. This charming gulf city is perfect for those who want to experience the Florida lifestyle without the hustle and bustle of its busy neighboring cities. With a population of just over 36,000 people, Dunedin offers city amenities with a small-town feel. Dunedin is home to an abundance of natural beauty, charming local businesses, and some great restaurants.
Located in Central Florida’s west coast is the charming and picturesque city of Dunedin. Dunedin has a relaxed atmosphere and a small town feel to it that has been the staple of its evolving culture. The sidewalks that line both sides of the downtown main street are full of unique shops and delicious restaurants. There is a real sense of community pride as you walk through the streets of this beautiful and charming city on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Dunedin has an allure that sets it apart from its surrounding neighbors. As soon as you enter Dunedin’s city limits, you will know that you have just driven into a special place, a place that you are excited to explore and make new memories in. Although, the city is small, it has a lot to offer. From the well-manicured streets and curb appeal, to the alluring charm the city permeates throughout, the anticipation to embark the journey through this city is exhilarating.
Dunedin also has many quiet streets making a walk through the neighborhoods a true joy that is full of peacefulness and tranquility. Furthermore, the city gives off a quaint village like aura that will instantly relax you with every step you take inside this Gulf Coast gem. In this post we will explore some of the hidden gems that Dunedin has to offer and show you how to travel mindfully through this charming city.
Why Visit Dunedin
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Meranova Guest Inn
Dunedin, Florida is a small city that lets you take a step back from the rushed pace that most of Florida has, and allows you to be present in the moment without the extra noise. The culture of Dunedin can be contributed to its more permanent based population that has allowed Dunedin to grow in a direction that preserves the culture and vibe of this beautiful city.
Furthermore, the shops are charming and offer a unique character that you will only find in a small city. Moreover, the food scene is delicious with many local restaurants giving their take on the Florida Food culture. From Pretzels to Breakfast skillets, there is a little something for everyone.
Overall, Dunedin just has that beautiful relaxed vibe that will calm your mind and feed your soul. Sometimes we need to take a vacation from our vacation and Dunedin is the place to do it in.
Fun Fact
Dunedin is one of the few waterfront communities from Sarasota to Cedar Key where buildings do not obscure the view (1).
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Dunedin Waterfront View from Pier
Cost Saving Tip
Parking is free in Dunedin, therefore you will want to get there early so you can find a spot near the historic downtown or the marina. This will also be helpful as you can just park and pretty much walk throughout the city since every street has a sidewalk. Just Park and Walk as we like to call it.
Alternative Option to Travel to Dunedin from Clearwater Beach
If you are staying on Clearwater Beach and want a more enjoyable way to travel to Dunedin, take the ferry. The ferry is roughly $8.00 per adult one way, and $4.00 for children ages 4 to 12. However, prices may vary depending on which route you are taking (2).
The tickets are sold and booked on a one-way basis. So, each person in your group will need a ticket for each way. The Ferry will drop visitors off at the Dunedin Marina, which is a short walk to many shops and restaurants (2). The Clearwater Ferry requires reservations ahead of time to guarantee a seat on the boat that departs at the time that is best for you (2).
The information that is contained in this post is subject to change and should be verified with the vendor ahead of time.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Flower Box on the Pinellas Trail
History Facts
Dunedin was incorporated in 1899 and later became a city in 1925 (1). The name is taken from Scottish Gaelic “Dun Eideann,” which is the Scottish Gaelic for Edinburgh (1).
Dunedin was the first home to the prestigious Professional Golf Association (PGA) (1).
The historic Orange Belt Railroad Depot on Main Street is home to the Dunedin Historical Society and Museum (1).
Caladesi and Honeymoon Island used to be one island, until a hurricane separated the two in 1921 (1).
The Cereal King, W.K. Kellogg, purchased a villa in 1934 to call Dunedin his winter home (1). Furthermore, during World War 2, his home was used as a Marine barrack (1).
Places to Visit
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Historic Downtown
Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, a baseball fan or a foodie, there is plenty to see and do for everyone in this beautiful quaint city. Some of the area’s top attractions include the Toronto Blues Jays Spring Training Stadium and the Historic Downtown, where you will experience a true Old Florida vibe with many restaurants and shops. Furthermore, Dunedin has an abundance of beautiful and well-maintained parks throughout the city. Here are a few of the top places to visit while you are in Dunedin, Florida.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl TD Stadium Home of the Toronto Blue Jays Spring Training
TD Stadium has hosted the Toronto Blue Jays since 1977 (3). The stadium’s seating capacity is 8,500 and is in a neighborhood like setting (3). The Blue Jays are the only Major League Baseball team to have been in one Spring Training community for their entire existence (3). Games are usually held from the end of February until the end of March. If you are in the area and enjoy baseball, then stop on by for a game. You could probably even walk to it depending on where you are staying in Dunedin.
Take a Stroll Through the Historic Downtown Area
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail
Dunedin’s historic downtown area is a bustling hub of activity, with many unique shops and restaurants. The area is home to many charming buildings, including the Dunedin Historical Museum, which tells the story of the city’s rich history. Additionally, the Historic District is home to a vibrant art scene and many cultural events to explore. The city hosts several art festivals throughout the year, including the popular Dunedin Fine Art and Craft Festival.
When it comes to food and shopping, most of the restaurants and shops are located on Main Street or just a few blocks away. There are a variety of different shops, ranging from gift shops to authentic popcorn shops, which will be discussed in a later article.
It is also worth mentioning that Dunedin has a lot of sidewalks making it a very walkable city, especially in the historic downtown area. The downtown also has the Pinellas Trail, which is a linear multi-use trail extending from St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs (5). The Trail utilized an abandoned railroad track and created a protected greenspace for bicyclists, joggers, or just the mindful walker (5). The Pinellas Trail cuts right through the downtown area, which makes a nice convenient stop for bicyclists and creates a nice walking trail for everyone else.
Get in Touch with Nature
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Hammock Park Forrest Canopy
One of the most prominent features of Dunedin is its stunning natural beauty. From its beautiful and well-maintained parks throughout the city, to the pristine beaches of Honeymoon Island State Park, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the natural beauty that the city of Dunedin has to offer. Dunedin has many great parks to visit that create charming green spaces where people can gather for outdoor activities such as Frisbee, picnics, or even an outdoor concert. These parks offer a lot of shade and benches where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful temperate Florida climate. Here are a few of the parks we visited.
Edgewater Park
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Edgewater Park
Directly behind the Dunedin Marina is the Edgewater Park. The Edgewater Park is a small park with a large canopy of oak trees that provides the park with shade throughout the day. Furthermore, the park has an adorable gazebo and offers public restrooms. There is also a pavilion with picnic benches to enjoy a quick meal with a rewarding view. The park is next to a public parking lot that is shared by the marina. This parking lot is free along with all the other parking lots and is conveniently located near the downtown.
Pioneer Park John R. Lawrence
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl John Lawrence Pioneer Park
John R. Lawrence Pioneer Park is located in the heart of downtown and is the most active green space in Dunedin. The park is frequented by regular events ranging from concerts and movies, to markets. Moreover, there are public bathrooms, an ice cream shop and plenty of benches to sit on and just relax and watch the traffic go by.
Dunedin Pier and Marina
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Dunedin Downtown Pier
The Dunedin Pier and Marina are in the heart of downtown (6). The Pier offers public fishing with a nearby bait shop. The Pier is also a prime sunset viewing location, and you may often see bagpipers and Celtic drumming during a sunset (6). The marina which the pier is located in, offers commercial boats that can take you and your group out on a dolphin cruise (6). The marina also welcomes transient boats and day visitors to the floating day docks (6). So, if you have a boat or know a friend who has one, you can stop in for the day and have lunch while enjoying some of the exquisite shopping Dunedin has to offer.
John Grant Hubbard Park
Dunedin, FL waterfront and John Grant Hubbard Park
John Grant Hubbard is a beautiful well-maintained park that highlights the essence of Dunedin. The park has a sidewalk that is frequented by joggers and cyclists daily, giving them a peaceful and calm workout in a natural setting. Moreover, this waterfront park has uninterrupted views of the Dunedin Channel and is one of the highlights upon visiting this small city. The park also has many benches along its wide path giving the daily walker a relaxing place to sit, rest and take in all the natural beauty that encompasses this beautiful park. Frequent guests of the park consist of dolphins, pelicans, and the occasional Osprey Hawk.
Hammock Park
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Hammock Park
The Hammock Park is probably the most prolific and largest park in Dunedin. The park is a 90-acre natural preserve (1). This beautiful park is in the northern part of Dunedin. The Hammock Park is absolutely beautiful and filled with many of Dunedin’s rare wildlife such as Hawks, Tortoises, and many other creatures native to Florida. Furthermore, the park has several trails which offer its guest a closeup of undisturbed nature. Due to Dunedin and the parks proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, there is always a gentle sea breeze that rustles the leaves and provides a calm warm wind throughout the day.
Personal Experience
We arrived early in Dunedin and started our day at Hammock Park. This is a beautiful park that is located in the northern part of Dunedin. Parking is limited or at least it was limited in the area where we parked, so you will want to get there early. We walked various trails that the park had extending throughout it while enjoying the beautiful nature. Many of the trails have benches and even covered pavilions where we plan on having some picnics in the future. This park is so large, that it would make for a wonderful and relaxing place where you could spend your entire morning.
After our trail walk at the Hammock Park, we drove into the historic downtown where we enjoyed a nice breakfast, followed by a lengthy walk throughout the city. During our walk we embarked upon many unique shops and explored some excellent desert and snack spots.
Health Benefits of Nature
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Hammock Park walkway
Spending time in nature can benefit a person’s health and well-being. A recent study that was conducted in 2019 found that people who spend 120 minutes or more in nature reported good health and an overall higher well-being with an increase in contact with nature (4). Positive association peaked between 200 to 300 minutes per week (4). The pattern was consistent across groups including older adults, and those with health issues (4). The amount of time spent in nature did not matter if it was all at once or in small blocks of time throughout the week (4). As long as the individual has direct exposure to nature throughout the week that exceeds 120 minutes there will most likely be a positive association and the person will exhibit a more relaxed mindset.
PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl Downtown water fountain
Conclusion
Dunedin may be small, but it has plenty to offer visitors who are willing to take the time to explore its many hidden gems. Whether you are looking to get in touch with nature, discover the local culture, or practice mindful travel, Dunedin is the perfect destination for those who want to experience the beauty and charm of Florida in a more relaxed and authentic setting. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore this delightful city – mindfully!
White, M.P., Alcock, I., Grellier, J. et al. Spending at 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with good health and well-being. Scientific Report 9, Article number: 7730 (2019). https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-019-44097-3
