NEWS

For nearly 60 years, Colonial Lanes was an Orlando institution, welcoming generations of Central Floridians for league nights, birthday parties, first dates, and evenings with friends. From its 1959 opening on Primrose Drive to its closure in 2018 and partial rebirth as Primrose Lanes, the beloved bowling alley remains an unforgettable piece of old Orlando history.

Tinker Field was more than an old Orlando ballpark. For generations, it brought Major League spring training, minor league baseball and some of the sport’s biggest names to Central Florida. It also became part of American history in 1964 when Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his only Central Florida speech from the pitcher’s mound. Although the grandstands are gone today, Tinker Field remains an important piece of Orlando’s past and a place filled with memories for generations of local fans.

Lee's Lakeside Restaurant, located near Lake Eola in downtown Orlando, was a beloved dining spot opened in the 1980s by Lethia "Lee" Rose. Known for its elegant ambiance and scenic lake views, it operated within the historic Cherry Plaza Hotel, a site tied to Disney's Florida project announcement in 1965. Lee's Lakeside was a staple of Orlando's dining scene for over two decades but closed in 2005, following the passing of its founder in 2003. The location has since hosted other establishments, but Lee's Lakeside remains a fond memory for its contribution to Orlando's culinary history.

Mystery Fun House, an Orlando attraction from 1976 to 2001, offered unique fun with its mirror maze, Moonscape, Starbase Omega laser tag, and dinosaur mini golf. Located near International Drive, it provided a quirky alternative to larger theme parks, creating cherished memories for locals and visitors alike. Though long closed, it remains a nostalgic part of Orlando’s history.

Boardwalk and Baseball, a unique theme park near Haines City, Florida, opened in 1987, blending classic boardwalk attractions with baseball-themed experiences, including the Kansas City Royals' spring training at Baseball City Stadium. Despite its creative concept, the park struggled to compete with larger attractions like Walt Disney World and closed in 1990. Though short-lived, it remains a nostalgic memory for those who experienced its charming mix of carnival games, rides, and America’s favorite pastime.