Winter Garden & West Orange County: Orlando

West Orange is one of the fastest growing sections of Florida, and contains an array of distinct identities. The area once known as the largest citrus shipping point in the world still maintains its historic small-town roots but is now blended with upscale planned communities, retail outlets and a wealth of outdoor and active activities. If you know the shortcuts, Disney is only a 10 minute drive from this area, as well.

Central Florida is abundant with bicycling/roller blade trails, and the West Orange Trail is no exception. This 22 mile trail stretches along the edge of Lake Apopka and is a wonderfully safe and scenic ride that passes through historical downtown Winter Garden, known by the locals as a modern Mayberry USA.

The southern portion of West Orange includes a series of waterfront and upscale planned communities and towns in which many of Orlando's elite, as well as athletes such as Shaquille O'Neal and Warren Sapp, call home. The quaint yet prestigious town of Windermere is considered to be the gateway to the lake district of Central Florida, so boating and water activities are common and public ramp access to the pristine Butler Chains of Lakes is available. © NileGuide