What was the 1980s Orlando vibe like?

As a child, I had a blast visiting Lake Eola, and it's amazing how little it's changed. The iconic clamshell was always there, and I'm a bit nostalgic about the Harley Hotel, which is now gone. My parents would take me to dinner at the restaurant located halfway up, and we'd enjoy the stunning view of the lake. Many of the big buildings in downtown Orlando had a distinct 70's concrete vibe, reminiscent of the downtown library, which still retains that charm. I also miss the nostalgic atmosphere of the Fashion Square Mall in the 80's, with its all-brown aesthetic, lush green plants, and beautiful fountains. The mall was also adorned with bronze sculptures of people, which added to its unique charm. Church Street Station was another favorite spot of mine.

Growing up in East Orlando, I think our house was pretty typical of the 70's. We had a big rock fireplace, brown carpet, and wood spindle room dividers that added a cozy touch to our home. I was born in 1983, and these design elements were definitely a product of their time.

Much, much less crowded

The landscape of Central Florida was dominated by orange trees, groves, and sand, creating a unique and picturesque scenery.