Best Historic Stays: The Historic Edgewater Hotel in Winter Garden
Situated in the heart of Winter Garden, The Historic Edgewater Hotel has been a cornerstone of the city’s growth since the 1920s and 1930s. It also played a significant role in its recent resurgence.
You'll love the experience of staying in the center of this charming Central Florida town, in the very spot once frequented by wealthy business tycoons of the 1920s. The hotel has hosted its share of famous guests, including the Washington Senators during spring training and Hollywood celebrities like Clark Gable. And soon… you!
A Journey Through Time: The Rich History of the Edgewater Hotel
Construction of the Edgewater Hotel began in 1923, and it opened its doors to guests in 1927. At the time, it was considered one of the safest and most technologically advanced hotels in the country.
One of the hotel’s standout features is its manually operated Otis elevator, one of the first in Central Florida, which quickly became an attraction in its own right. You can still ride this historic elevator today, though it can only be operated by an Edgewater Hotel team member. It’s a true step back in time!
For most of your stay, though, you’ll use the charming, winding staircase to reach the exquisitely decorated lobby and rooms on the second floor.
The Edgewater was also noteworthy for its state-of-the-art sprinkler system, which covered its 30,000 square feet—a feature that was ahead of its time. Remarkably, this system is still in operation today. You’ll see the bright red pipes running through the halls and rooms. It adds a touch of vintage charm while serving a practical purpose!
In the late 1930s, Winter Garden gained popularity as a prime location for bass fishing on Lake Apopka, just about a mile from the hotel at 99 W. Plant Street. I was surprised to learn that Lake Apopka is one of the largest lakes in Florida!
Fishing became so popular that in 1936, local businessmen leased the hotel and added fish-cleaning stations—complete with a sink and refrigerator—on each floor, marketing the Edgewater as a full-service fishing lodge.
During World War II, the hotel housed U.S. Army soldiers before they were deployed overseas. Later, in the late 1960s and early 1970s, crews working on the construction of Walt Disney World stayed at the Edgewater.
Though the hotel closed shortly after that era, it thankfully reopened in November 2003 after being shuttered for 35 years. Since then, the Edgewater Hotel has been a vital part of Winter Garden's renaissance, contributing to the vibrant, historic charm that draws visitors today.
Timeless Charm Meets Modern Comforts: What to Expect at the Edgewater Today
Today, guests at the Edgewater Hotel will find the same charm of the 1920s, complemented by modern conveniences.
Parking can often be a stress point, especially in a bustling downtown area, but the on-site parking right next to the hotel is a breeze. And the best part? You can leave your car there for your entire stay—Winter Garden is wonderfully walkable.
Upon check-in, you'll receive a parking pass and an actual key to your room—a delightful throwback that’s both nostalgic and charming. Just don’t lose it!
The hotel offers 16 uniquely decorated units, each furnished with antiques and period-style furniture. I stayed in the Corner King Suite, typically priced at $159.00 per night. The room, located at the corner of the building, overlooks bustling Plant Street and the Winter Garden Village Fountain. I even had the pleasure of watching a small concert in the square from the comfort of my room!
The suite's four windows let in plenty of natural light, but the shades blocked it out nicely when needed. Despite being in the heart of downtown, the extra window panes did a great job keeping out noise from the street below. So while I could see the concert, it didn’t feel like it was happening right in my room.
The suite also had a cozy sitting area, coffee table, vanity, dresser, nightstand, TV, small fridge, and a private bathroom—with the sink conveniently located outside the bathroom.
Throughout the hotel, you'll find small tables stocked with snacks. I was particularly delighted by the Werther’s Originals just outside my door—dangerously delicious!
There’s also an Extra Supplies Cabinet stocked with essentials like soap, shampoo, toilet paper, towels, and blankets. For those sensitive to noise, you’ll even find ear plugs available.
The lobby and dining room also offer snacks like granola bars and cereal at any time. In an era when it feels like travelers are often nickel-and-dimed, the generosity of the Edgewater Hotel truly stands out.
During your stay, you can schedule breakfast at your convenience. The Edgewater Hotel prides itself on serving a traditional American breakfast reminiscent of the 1920s, while also accommodating dietary restrictions or allergies. I opted for a delicious waffle with bacon and a fried potato patty, accompanied by fresh orange juice. It was a delightful way to start the day!
Savor the Flavors: Dining Delights at the Edgewater Hotel
The Edgewater Hotel building houses several dining options that are sure to satisfy any palate:
- Thai Blossom: Serving authentic Thai cuisine, this restaurant is a local favorite. You can dine in or call ahead for takeout. The dishes here have been praised in several local publications.
- The Chef’s Table at the Edgewater: For a fine dining experience, enjoy a three-course dinner prepared with a full view of the chefs at work.
- The Tasting Room: Relax with a glass of wine, craft beer, or an exotic cocktail while enjoying small plates.
- Scoops Ice Cream: You can't miss the line that often forms outside the hotel’s main entrance for this old-fashioned ice cream shop. Scoops serves Hershey’s Ice Cream, along with drinks, floats, and soft serve. I indulged in the Banana Pudding and Graham Central Station flavors—both were incredible!
Visitors will also find Earl Brigham’s Barbershop inside the building. Earl has been Winter Garden’s hometown barber for 50 years. Peek in the windows and you’ll instantly be transported to another time!
From the Edgewater, you’ll find a wide variety of charming shops, restaurants, and parks to visit. Here are a few of my personal favorites from my stay:
- Newton Park: Located on the shore of Lake Apopka, this park offers stunning views of the expansive lake, a boardwalk pier, raised walkways, and plenty of wildlife. I was thrilled to spot several alligators during my visit!
- Winter Garden Heritage Museum: Operated by the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation, which was actually formed to save the Edgewater Hotel from demolition, this small museum in the heart of downtown is a treasure. Don’t miss the video that details the twists and turns of Winter Garden's history—it’s a fascinating story of resilience and community spirit.
- SOBO Art Gallery: Escape the heat in this free art gallery just off Winter Garden’s main drag. When I visited, student art was on display, showcasing the incredible talent of local grade-school artists. It was inspiring to see their creativity!
- Apricot Lane: This locally-owned women’s clothing store is a delightful spot to browse. I could have spent hours here exploring their fabulous styles and unique finds.
- Writer’s Block Bookstore: There’s something magical about the smell of new books, and Writer’s Block didn’t disappoint. This bookstore is filled with new titles, adorable trinkets, and a cozy, welcoming vibe that’s hard to resist.
- Plant Street Market: One of Winter Garden’s most popular spots, Plant Street Market is an indoor marketplace offering natural, organic, and handmade products. I loved browsing the vendors.
Winter Garden’s Farmers Market is also a major draw, taking place every Saturday year-round from 8 am to 1 pm. With over 100 vendors, you’ll find everything from locally-sourced produce to artwork, baked goods, clothing, accessories, and the most refreshing fresh lemonade!
A Timeless Escape Awaits You at the Historic Edgewater Hotel
The Edgewater Hotel in Winter Garden offers a unique blend of historical charm, warm hospitality, meticulously maintained rooms, and an unbeatable location. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of quaint towns, or simply in search of a memorable getaway, the Edgewater provides an experience that transcends time.
So, why not step into the past and create your own piece of history? Your perfect stay at the Edgewater Hotel is just a reservation away.
And, be sure to let them know that Sarah sent you! :)
