Tour Of Orlando's Colonial Architectural Landmarks

Located in the heart of Florida, Orlando is a city full of spectacular residential landmarks. Not only are these buildings beautiful to look at, they also offer a glimpse into America’s rich social history. Although many of the properties have undergone refurbishment and evolved beyond their initial blueprints, efforts to preserve some of the original decor have secured them a place on the National Register of Historic Places.

1. JJ Bridges House

When Reverend John J Bridges DD and his wife Isobel retired to Orlando, they commissioned an architect named Wilson C Ely from Newark, New Jersey, to design their new home. The property was completed in 1916, and Ely’s creation was the first of its kind. In contrast to those that came before it, the JJ Bridges House was understated and elegant. Having departed from the grandiose style employed by previous Orlando architects, Ely ushered in a new era of home design: Colonial Revival.

704 South Kuhl Avenue in Orlando, FL., USA

Courtesy of Historic Preservation Office, City of Orlando; Photographer Junko Hennessy, 2014

2. Howard Atha House

Park

Built in 1925, this Colonial Revival house is nestled within approximately an acre of beautifully manicured grounds. Originally built by S Howard Atha (one of the founders of Orlando’s College Park), this property retains its original character, with a grand entryway, split stairway, fluted columns, built in bookcases and a copper weathervane. A carriage house, pool house and pagoda-style gazebo have all been added to the home, now a private residence.

3. Doctor Phillips House

Originally built in 1893 as a wedding present for the daughter of a military colonel, the home was later purchased by Doctor Philip Phillips, known as ‘Florida’s first great orange juice baron’. It was Phillips who made major renovations to the residence, adding extra bedrooms, a cellar and a carriage house. After Phillips death in 1959, the house was deeded to the city, and later acquired by the owners of a nearby bed and breakfast: The Courtyard at Lake Lucerne. During The Courtyard’s renovation, original architectural details were discovered and brought back to life. Hidden beneath layers of paint on the central staircase was beautiful woodwork, for example. A two-story porch was added as well as central air conditioning, making the home a perfect place to stay while visiting the city.

135 North Lucerne Circle, Orlando, FL., USA

Courtesy of Historic Preservation Office, City of Orlando; Photographer Douglas Metzger, 2014

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.