Case Studies 

Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

*Nominee 

Park Avenue, Winter Park

Winter Park

FL

USA

Contributed by 
John Livaudais
Project for Public Spaces
 on 
December 17, 2003
May 1, 2024

A bustling street lined with shops and a central park, unexpected in the Orlando area.

What makes it Great?

Why it doesn't work?

Park Avenue in Winter Park is a special place to many in the Southeast. It contains several blocks of shops, galleries, sidewalk cafes, and restaurants in a lush village setting. The constant Florida humidity betrays the idea that this setting could be somewhere in New England.

Access & Linkages

The street is a classic Main Street thoroughfare. It is very convenient for pedestrians, with wide sidewalks containing a handful of al fresco cafes, with a few arcades hiding more shops off the street. A great place to stroll in the late afternoon.

Comfort & Image

The area is Florida upscale, though you couldn't compare it to Rodeo Drive or Worth Avenue. It is well-maintained, and the street was recently resurfaced with brick.

Uses & Activities

Mostly retail, with offices on upper floors, and a museum on the north end of the street. A large central park lines the street for several blocks on the east side.

Sociability

Possibly the only appealing place one can go for a stroll in the Orlando area, outside of a shopping mall or a theme park. The people you see walking along Park Avenue reflect the relative affluence of the area.

How Light?

How Quick?

How Cheap?

History & Background

Related Links & Sources

Park Avenue, Winter Park
Image © Glatting Jackson
Park Avenue, Winter Park
Park Avenue, Winter Park
Park Avenue, Winter Park
Park Avenue, Winter Park
Park Avenue, Winter Park
Park Avenue, Winter Park
Park Avenue, Winter Park

*Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

NOMINATE A PLACE

Corrections or additions? Email info@pps.org
Comments