Located on the shores of Lake Apopka, is Winter Garden, a charming historic city, just 20 minutes west of Orlando. The downtown area is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places and is a popular stop off point on the West Orange Trail. The city hosts several museums, a centre for the arts and one of the top regional Farmer’s Markets. Its proximity to the theme parks and buzz of Orlando makes it a popular choice for visitors to Central Florida.
Begin an exploration of Winter Garden at the local Heritage Museum, dedicated to preserving the small-town charm. The museum details past inventions and architecture of the town and allows visitors a glimpse into a rich history. Another main point of interest is the Central Florida Railroad Museum. It is in the Winter Garden Downtown Historic District. Admirers of old style locomotives will be able to see exhibits, photographs, and a large collection of dining car china. Those wishing to venture out onto the West Orange Trail can do so from here. The trail incorporates 35 kilometres of paved pathways built on old railroad alignments. There are four main stations which can be accessed on foot, by bicycle or even on skates. Alternatively, drive to one of the stations and walk to points of interest. Pass by nature preserves, and walk across old style rail bridges, all while observing the incredible scenery. The historic downtown area of Winter Garden contains a variety of shops, cafes and restaurants to enjoy. When dining out, there’s something to tempt everyone’s taste buds, from seafood and barbeque to Chinese, Italian or Mexican cuisine.
Driving from Winter Garden to Orlando or vice versa takes around 25 minutes. In a short space of time visitors can reach the theme parks, water parks and world class retail outlets. There’s a train service to Orlando from Winter Garden taking approximately 1.5 hours. Alternatively, the bus service operates to LYNX Central Station in Orlando. Visitors preferring to remain in Winter Garden can walk to and from attractions in the city centre with ease.
Winter Garden was once a former citrus town and is home to the award-winning West Orange Trail which is currently being expanded to reach from coast to coast. The proximity to Orlando makes it an ideal town from which to explore all the natural beauty of the area.