Rosemont - Orlando, FL Area Guide

Originally overtaken by cotton fields and cattle ranches, the Rosemont neighborhood of Orlando began to see housing along the lakes in the 1860s. With the promise of a tropical climate, the area began attracting residents. By the 1870s, churches, stores, and schools started springing up everywhere. Over the years, the area continued to grow. Today, the area attracts people from all over, especially since Walt Disney World lies only a few miles from Rosemont.

Locals often go to the Orlando Museum of Art, where educational programs and exhibits change throughout the year. Open seven days a week, the museum costs $8 for adults, $7 for seniors and military members, and $5 for children.

Known for heaping plates of goodness, Nick's Diner serves a superior breakfast and lunch. Keep it healthy with the renowned vegetarian omelette, or treat yourself to the stuffed French toast. A local favorite, the Bananas Foster French toast melts in your mouth and comes with hash browns and bacon. The mushroom cheeseburger and buffalo chicken sandwich, the most popular lunch options, come with a side of fries. Nick's Diner serves up generous portions and prides itself on stellar service and quality food.

For the best wings in town, locals head over to Wing House Bar & Grill on Parkway Center Court. Known for its finger-licking-good wings, the restaurant gives diners many sauce options, including garlic Parmesan, sweet Thai chili, and mango habanero. Wing House also serves up some great sandwiches and tacos. Satisfy your sweet tooth with the popular chocolate cake or key lime pie. Add ice cream to either dessert.

Known as the area's rooftop party bar, Latitudes sits above a historic church. This spot offers current music and a tropical-inspired atmosphere, so locals love to dance the night away at Latitudes. Attracting a diverse crowd, the establishment hosts one of the best happy hours with its three-for-one special.

LYNX, the area's public transportation system, runs smoothly with its reliable bus routes. LYNX services Orange County and the surrounding areas, and a few of the most popular stops include the Orange County Convention Center, Barry University, and Florida Hospital. LYNX also provides other services, such as FastLink and Xpress Bus Service, which speed up travel times by reducing the number of stops. Fare costs $2. Unlimited daily, weekly, and monthly passes are available for purchase and made to benefit those who ride often.

While many individuals do use their own vehicles, they also walk depending on the destination. Rosemont is also bicycle-friendly. With over 15 bike trails, the neighborhood accommodates bikers and encourages residents to be environmentally friendly. If preferred, taxi services, including Uber and Lyft, are available.

Though many establishments do provide free parking for customers, parking structures can be found along Pine Street, Liberty Avenue, and Alexander Place. Parking meters stand scattered throughout the area and remain free on Sundays and city holidays. Major highways, including I-4 and I-75, are easily accessible from this neighborhood.

Located on East Princeton Street, Loch Haven Park consists of 45 acres and three lakes -- Lake Estelle, Lake Rowena, and Lake Formosa. Perfect for relaxing and enjoying the scenery, Loch Haven Park houses some of Florida's oldest oak trees. The Orlando Fire Museum and Science Center are also major parts of the park.

Lake Eola Park encompasses a one-mile walkway, ideal for those who walk, run, or bike. The park also provides paddle boats and grills. The park allows visitors to feed the swans and birds and embraces lush greenery and gardens. Also home to many concerts and plays, Lake Eola Park stays open seven days a week. The park is both kid- and dog-friendly, and no admission is required, though boat fees do apply. The park even accommodates private parties and events in the historic Eola House.

Every winter, Lake Eola Park hosts the Eola Wonderland Christmas Tree Show. The show brings the trees to life with lights and music. Every night, the Lake Eola Fountain provides an entertaining show of its own with colored lights and themed music to match the season.

The cost of living in the Rosemont neighborhood is 8.5 percent lower than the Orlando average and 8.9 percent less than the national average. Traveling to the city center via public transportation costs about $2 for an individual. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Rosemont runs about $625 per month. Gas prices run 4.2 percent higher than the national average.

Locals frequent Marge's Specialties, a fine furniture and accessories store. Considered a local gem, this establishment sells custom bedding, rugs, and unique lighting. Perfect for furnishing a new home or that past-due remodel, Marge's also provides customers with special services, including floral, wedding, decor, and party planning. Located on North Orange Blossom Trail, this spot is a decorator's dream come true.

With two nearby locations, Zou Zou Boutique carries the freshest trends of clothing. The boutique houses some hard-to-find pieces, selling wares from brands such as Free People and 32 Flavors to Hale Bob. In addition to fashionable women's clothing, Zou Zou also sells designer accessories. Shoppers also love Etoile Boutique, an eccentric vintage shop known for its sassy styles. From clothing to home goods and accessories, Etoile exclusively sells handmade items. The boutique even allows walk-ins for alterations on Saturdays.

Save-A-Lot, a popular discount grocery store, carries all basic grocery needs. If locals seek a more ethnic shopping experience, they go to Woo Sung Oriental Food Mart. Known for its authentic food items, Woo Sung lets shoppers purchase goods at reasonable prices. Every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the area's farmers market takes place at Lake Eola Park.