All About Orlando

Ever wonder what you could do with your broken appliances or old car parts instead of just tossing them out in the trash? No? Well, Howard Solomon did, and you’ll be amazed at what he came up with. A trip to King Solomon’s Castle in Central Florida will give you a first-hand look at the amazing art Howard created with what others saw as just waste.

Internationally known artist and sculptor Howard Solomon has over 300 pieces of his peculiar art on display in his private gallery and part of his castle home. His tongue-in-cheek sense of humor, which is prevalent in his artwork, will both delight and amaze you. After you’ve had your fill of Howard’s spectacular works, stop in at the ‘Boat in the Moat’ restaurant for a bite to eat.

The restaurant is run by Howard’s daughter, Alane and her husband, Dean. The tasty home-style grub is all cooked on the premises from scratch. Dine indoors in the lovely Spanish Galleon or, if the weather permits, alfresco on the patio. If you’re looking for some down-home meals check out what’s on the menu. (Not all inclusive)

Homemade double-crusted white chicken pot pie, lasagna just like Mom used to make, BBQ Pork sandwiches made from fresh pork loins, chili by the bowl or cup, Home-made meatloaf that’ll make your mouth water, and an array of sandwiches including both hot and cold. Yummy! After you’ve indulged, step outside and walk off some of those calories.

Stroll through the gardens or take a jaunt along the nature walk that runs along the picturesque Horse Creek. If, after all this, you’re finding it hard to leave, consider spending a night in the castle. And you thought it couldn’t get any better!

That’s right the castle’s Blue Moon Room will accommodate two adults, and it offers a bird’s eye view of the beautiful, plush castle grounds.

Credit cards are not accepted at either the castle or the restaurant. Hours of operation are 11am-4pm. The grounds are closed every Monday and through the months of July, August and September. The restaurant is open both Friday and Saturday evening till 9pm and offers a special evening menu. There’s one more thing.

The castle is located on County Road 665, in Hardee County, which is pretty far out in the central part of Florida so make sure you’re packing a full tank of gas before you head out.

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Filed under: Day Trips