Fort Christmas Historical Park & Museum
Construction on this fort, used during the second Seminole War starting in 1837, began on Christmas Day, which is what gave the fort and eventually the city its name. While the original fort is long gone, a life-size replica now houses artifacts, weapons and clothing of the era, as well as tools and household items used by U.S. Army soldiers, pioneers and Alabama volunteers who were stationed here during the war. Seven other buildings within the park include a homestead, a 1906 school and a series of constructions depicting the industries of the time, such as citrus crops, fishing and cattle raising. Special reenactments are held here throughout the year, as well as seminars, lectures and live events.
Fort Christmas Historical Park & Museum
1300 Fort Christmas Road
Christmas, FL 32709
(407) 568-4149
www.nbbd.com/godo/FortChristmas
Cornell Fine Arts Museum
This free museum is a must-see for art lovers who would appreciate a complete overview of works of art from ancient times to modern day. With more than 6,000 paintings, drawings and art objects in rotating exhibits, you can visit more than once and always find something new. Of special distinction are the large collection of Tiffany glass, an Andy Warhol exhibit and notable Italian Renaissance paintings. An entry fee is charged during special events, so check the calendar in advance or give the museum a quick call.
Cornell Fine Arts Museum
1000 Holt Ave
Winter Park, FL 32789
(407) 646-2526
tars.rollins.edu/cfam
Disney's BoardWalk
Not everything Disney comes with a price tag attached. The Boardwalk is an entertainment complex that surrounds Crescent Lake and offers visitors plenty of opportunities for free fun, as well as shopping and dinning destinations. The 1/4-mile long boardwalk can be accessed free of charge, and whether you spend any money once there depends on what you have in mind. Special events, as well as street performers, are always around, and many bars and restaurants offer live music, with a notable example being the dueling pianos show offered daily at Jellyroll's. Benches beckon the footweary. You can sit by the lake and enjoy the view for free, and you can even bring your own picnic if you want to avoid paying the high-end prices of the local restaurants.
Disney's BoardWalk
2101 Epcot Resorts Boulevard
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
(407) 939-5100
disneyworld.disney.go.com/destinations/disneys-boardwalk
About The Author
Sarah Dray has been writing since 1996. She specializes in health, wellness and travel topics and has credits in various publications, including "Woman's Day," "Marie Claire," "Adirondack Life" and "Self." She is also a seasoned independent traveler and a certified personal trainer and nutrition consultant. Dray is pursuing a criminal justice degree at Penn Foster College.
