Photo: Orientation Express riders sample menu items from Fontenot’s on their tour of north Winter Park.

Every fall, just before the winter season gets fully underway, the Winter Park & Fraser Chamber coordinates a week of special tours at over 50 local businesses in the Winter Park and Fraser area. Known as the “Orientation Express”, the business excursion kicks off a weeks’ worth of tours on Monday, December 2nd. 

All locals are invited to join the Winter Park & Fraser Chamber for a FREE behind the scenes tour of 50+ local businesses in Winter Park & Fraser across five days: December 2 – December 6, 2019. Register for one or all five nights at playwinterpark.com.

“Orientation Express is such an excellent way for local employees to learn about the community businesses. Everyone has a chance to meet new people, learn what’s new in town so they are fueled with information to tell the guests what’s up this winter season,” said Maria Chavez, Winter Park & Fraser Chamber Membership Services Director.

Katherine Mowrey of Epic Mountain Sports tells attendees about the latest in ski industry trends.

Newcomers and long-time locals have a unique opportunity to visit a variety of local businesses, learn more about them and see what’s new. From ski shops to coffee shops, attendees see what’s behind each door and will, more than likely, find some new favorites. 

Using The Lift transit buses as one way to get around during the tours, riders will also become more familiar with routes, stops, schedules and how to access information. Keep in mind that you will also be traveling quite a bit on foot, so be sure to dress warmly and wear comfortable, non-slip shoes or boots. 

Each afternoon/evening, you’ll visit 10 different businesses in different geographical areas between Winter Park and Fraser. There will be opportunities to win free prizes, get free samples and discounts, network and make new friends… Plus, $50 cash will be awarded to one lucky attendee each night.   

2019 Tour Schedule:

  • Monday, December 2: Cooper Creek Square –  meet at the fountain at 3:50 pm;
  • Tuesday, December 3: South Winter Park – meet at the Winter Park Information Center, 78697 US 40, at 3:50 pm;
  • Wednesday, December 4: The Village at Winter Park Resort – meet at the Village Gazebo at 3:40 pm;
  • Thursday, December 5: North Winter Park – meet in the Best Western motel lobby at 3:50 pm. Tonight’s tour includes an after-party at Ullrs Tavern featuring a Grand County Blues Society’s blues show with 2019 Grammy-nominated Southern Avenue & Food Drive for Mountain Family Center; 
  • Friday, December 6: Fraser – meet at Naked Aspen Designs in the Fraser Valley Shopping Center at 3:50 pm.

Riders on the Orientation Express come away from the tours more “in-the-know” about local businesses, their locations and able to share experiences with guests and visitors in a more personal, insightful way.

To register for these fun and informational tour events, visit playwinterpark.com.