Motor Courts

Motor Courts A popular choice for tourists visiting Winter Park during the 1950s

Locally, motor courts began popping up in the 1950s. Orlando Avenue, or, U.S. Highway 17/92 was lined with assorted motor courts on either side of the street! All a tourist had to do was select one of these colorful establishments from the unique advertising that they used. Proprietors tempted the travelers by promoting their facilities with claims such as:

"New! "Modern!" "Fireproof!"
"Good water to drink – No sulfur!" "Air conditioned or cross ventilated!"
"Private tile baths!" "All the modern comforts and conveniences!"
"Lake and pool swimming!" "Golf courses nearby!"
"Shuffleboard – Horseshoes – Croquet!"

According to the advertisements, the weary traveler could be sure that the motor court that was selected was:

"The right place to stay!"
"Just a little bit better!"

This article was written by former archivist, Barbara White, MLIS.