Sanford Mini Guide
What is Special About Sanford?
Sanford is a small city in the area which also contains the cities of
Kissimmee and
Orlando. Somewhat overshadowed by Orlando, Sanford is often overlooked by many tourists which gives it a quiet, relaxed feel but there’s still plenty to do in and around the city. Sanford began as an area growing and exporting citrus but after the population was decimated by yellow fever in the 19th century, followed by a destructive fire and then two successive seasons of heavy frost which decimated the citrus industry, the city turned to growing vegetables and in particular, celery which gave it the nickname, ‘Celery City’ . Today it is becoming more of a resort city and residential zone for retiring Americans having reasonable access to
Disney World but still retaining its charm as a city not entirely influenced by Mickey and friends.
What is There to See and Do in Sanford?
Sanford has a great location on the shores of Lake Monroe and with many other smaller lakes in the area. It’s also on the edge of the St John river basin and boasts sheltered anchorage meaning that numerous yacht marinas have sprung up in the area. Many of the lakes around the city have been incorporated into parks and you can spend a lazy day picnicking then hire a boat to drift gently on the lake waters. Favourites are Sylvan Lake and Lake Jesup Parks. As is common in
Florida, air boat safaris are on offer from many companies and make for an exciting day out sweeping across the lakes and into the swampland beyond.
What can I buy in Sanford?
Sanford is close enough to Disney to warrant a Disney store and even if you’re not visiting Disney World, you may want to pick up a couple of souvenirs there to show you’ve been (nearly!) to the home of Disney. Elsewhere, Florida has a thriving industry in tourist T-shirts but be aware that slogans that seem cool or funny on holiday may not be so well appreciated by your friends back home.
What do People eat in Sanford?
Fishing is a popular leisure sport around the lakes and some fish is harvested commercially for the restaurants. Try the trout, shrimps or the crayfish for delicious dinners in some of the finer restaurants in the city. Recommended is Colorado’s, which, although primarily a steak house, has a fabulous way with fish dishes.
And for Entertainment in Sanford?
Most of the entertainment is centred around the bars and restaurants. A favourite is ‘Little Fish Huge Pond’ which combines food and drink with art displays, live music and special events including fashion shows, comedy nights and shows. Other bars and restaurants follow the laid back approach with some live music thrown in but on a warm summer evening, the best entertainment is a cold beer and your group of friends.
Car hire Sanford is ideal for family holidays in Florida. Not only can you drive to all of the world famous theme parks in Orlando but Sanford has some nice attractions like the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens.
The city of Sanford itself is built by the shores of the Lake Monroe, which was once inhabited by Timucuan Indians. The area is fertile as it is also close to the St John’s River. Today Sanford remains a transportation hub with major rail and air links as well as traffic using the Seminole Expressway.