Albin Polasek was a professor at the Art Institute of Chicago for 30 years before retiring to Winter Park.
The museum grounds include the artist's original studio, which has been preserved to display his tools and materials.
The collection contains over 200 works by Polasek, ranging from small figurines to massive public monuments.
The house, Capel Manor, was built specifically to house Polasek’s collection and designed to withstand the local climate.
Several of the garden sculptures were donated by the artist himself to ensure they would remain permanently on public display.
The Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens is a historic lakefront property dedicated to the work of Czech-born sculptor Albin Polasek. The site serves as both a museum and a restored residence, showcasing a collection of bronze and plaster sculptures created over the artist's career. It sits on three acres of manicured grounds overlooking Lake Osceola. The property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can tour the artist’s home, known as Capel Manor, which maintains its original 1949 Mediterranean-style architecture. The outdoor gardens feature permanent sculpture installations integrated into the lush Florida landscape. It functions as a cultural center for the city of Winter Park.
The bench at the water's edge in the sculpture garden, offering a view of the lake framed by the garden’s landscaping.
Explore the garden paths early in the day to enjoy the sculptures in the soft morning light.
Ask staff about the guided house tours, as they provide essential context on Polasek’s artistic evolution.
Check the garden grounds thoroughly for hidden sculptures tucked away in the foliage near the lakefront.
Rushing through the gardens without taking the time to read the plaques, which provide necessary context for the individual sculptures.
Closed on Mondays.
Maintain a quiet volume and do not touch the outdoor bronze sculptures, as natural oils can damage the patina.
