Ivanhoe Village, Orlando

Ivanhoe Village is a modest yet pretty main strip along Orange Ave in the College Park neighborhood of Orlando where you can walk find yummy restaurants and interesting shops. After your meal, walk across the street to Gaston Edwards Park right on the lake and take in the pretty views of cypress trees immersed in the water. There is a dock where ducks quack about and a playground with medium-sized structure, bouncies, and swings. The Greek Corner has a lovely location right by the water and cute casual area to eat outdoors surrounded by murals and flower baskets. The food was nice though the service unfriendly. Mesa 21 Mexican Restaurant has an amazing location directly on the water- very romantic. German Backhaus Bakery has sandwiches and pastries.

There is a winding pathway along the lake and little grassy knolls that kids like to play King of the Castle on.
There are quite a few homeless people in downtown Orlando, and also people in general are not very friendly. They don't return your smile just like in other big cities- kind of a surprise when you've just come from the land of Disney.
Nearby, check out Orlando Science Center, a ton of fun for kids. Or take a romantic stroll around the Leu Gardens.

Directions

From Highway 4, take exit 85 for Princeton St and head east on Princeton St. Take the first right onto N. Orange Ave and after driving a few blocks, park along the road.
Mesa 21 Mexican Restaurant, 1414 N. Orange Ave, Orlando Fl 32804.
The Greek Corner, 1600 N. Orange Ave, Orlando FL 32804, call (407) 228-0303.

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