No, I’m not talking about the time of year when most of the country are fleeing to Florida for a glimpse of sunshine and warm weather. I’m referring to a few of the wonderful communities located throughout Central Florida that ironically possess the word winter in their names. I have no shame in admitting that for the first four years that I lived in Orlando, I had a difficult time deciphering these areas. I soon wondered if other newcomers felt the same. So, if you don’t know if Winter Springs is north or south of Orlando or if Legoland is in Winter Garden or Winter Haven, then this handy guide is for you.
Winter Park
Winter Park is a short three miles from downtown Orlando and is well-known for its lively street of shops and restaurants called Park Avenue. Incorporated in 1925, you will find a wide array of homes ranging from 1960’s ranchers to multi-million dollar mansions. Many well-known figures, including sports athletes and actors, call Winter Park their home. This town is also home to some of Central Florida’s best restaurants. Paul McCartney has often been spotted at the trendy restaurant Luma, and you’ll arguably find some of the best Italian food in town at its sister restaurant Prato. Venture to the end of Park Avenue, and you’ll find the private liberal arts school, Rollins College. Winter Park is also home to Full Sail University, an entertainment, media, arts, and technology college.
Distance from Downtown Orlando – 3 miles
Distance from Disney World – 23 miles
Distance from Universal Studios – 16 miles
Winter Springs
Located northeast of downtown Orlando is Winter Springs. Primarily comprised of residential neighborhoods, Winter Springs borders Lake Jessup, a popular alligator sighting spot, and the Spring Hammock Preserve. Winter Springs also neighbors Oviedo, a growing East Orlando town. Like it’s close neighbor Winter Park, Winter Springs is located in Seminole County where you will find many of Orlando’s A-rated schools.
Distance from Downtown Orlando – 15 miles
Distance from Disney World – 31 miles
Distance from Universal Studios – 24 miles
Winter Garden
Winter Garden is located 14 miles west of Orlando and is the closest “winter” to Disney World. This growing area is best known for its charming downtown and the 22-mile West Orange Trail, which attracts outdoor enthusiasts from all around Central Florida. Winter Garden is experiencing a boom in new construction homes and is rapidly growing. On a Saturday afternoon, you will find residents flocking to the Farmer’s Market, followed by a stop at Plant City Brewery. The Plant Street Market, located in downtown Winter Garden, is an indoor local community artisan market featuring 20 vendors.
Distance from Downtown Orlando – 15 miles
Distance from Disney World – 17 miles
Distance from Universal Studios – 15 miles
Winter Haven
Winter Haven is located 47 miles southwest of Orlando and 50 miles east of Tampa. Known for its chain of lakes and tranquil beauty, Winter Haven is mostly rural, but a nature lovers haven with 50 lakes within its border. In 2011, Legoland, a theme park featuring more than 45 rides, shows, attractions, and shops opened. Shortly after, in 2015, the Legoland hotel debuted, featuring 152 rooms spread across five stories. Although a popular attraction for families, Legoland is not the only attraction in Winter Haven. Located nearby and north of Lake Wales, you will find Bok Tower Gardens, a National Historic Landmark known for its gothic architecture, bird sanctuary, and serene gardens.
Distance from Downtown Orlando – 47 miles
Distance from Disney World – 30 miles
Distance from Universal Studios – 40 miles
