Orange picking in Orlando

When you think about Orlando, you may not straight away think about orange picking. 

We were looking for a quiet, outdoor family activity to ease ourselves in Florida, to combat the jet-lag and to avoid the crowds. You may also be on the lookout for something else to do to get out of the theme parks and the shops.

Orange picking is absolutely perfect. It was perfect for us. It is Florida after all. Florida = oranges.

We spent a whole morning (and could have easily stayed longer) out in the fields walking and being dragged (for some) through the trees, smelling fruits, looking at insects, comparing sizes, shapes, eating (shhhh), and filling our bags.

We picked the Showcase of Citrus, in Clermont because it was very close to where we were staying but I am sure there are other places you can do the same. You can wonder through the fields as you wish. There is no fee. You can pick (or not) oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes, kumquats and more. There is almost always something in season. But check out the chart here beforehand. 

The lovely lady at the entrance gave us a few pointers about what was ready to be picked. Did you know that colour does not matter? Green oranges are just as delicious. Armed with our bags, little trolley and sticks, we spent a lot more time than planned picking. Everyone had fun. 

The taste test came when we got home. Our favourite? We absolutely loved the pineapple oranges. We had no idea oranges could have so many different tastes.  The grapefruits were much sweeter than many of the ones we are used to. We were not sold on kumquats though. We drank the juices and ate the rest of the fruits on our two-week stay: our daily dose of vitamins picked by our own hands.

The site is beautiful. There are picnic tables, children's toys and a few farm animals for the kids too. 

A beautiful, relaxing day out away from the crowds. A great learning experience for the whole family. Highly recommended.

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