What Makes North Orlando Special

 

With miles of flowing rivers and acres of scenic parks, North Orlando showcases the natural beauty of Central Florida. Need something fun to do this weekend? Book an airboat ride with Black Hammock Adventures or bike around the quaint town of Sanford. Head to the Enterprise Heritage Center and Museum and Gallery on First for a taste of local art and culture. Plus, if you want to bring your furry friend with you, most of the state parks in North Orlando, including Wekiwa Springs State Park, allow dogs to visit. Thanks to the nearby golf courses, shopping centers, spas, and restaurants, North Orlando is the perfect spot for the whole family!

 

Favorite Spots in Northwest Orlando

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Now, let’s take a closer look at four of our favorite spots in Northwest Orlando.

 

Longwood

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The nearly 57,000 residents of Longwood (both incorporated and unincorporated) enjoy the city’s rich history, job opportunities, strong public schools, and diversity. 

Lake Mary

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Lake Mary has a population of just over 16,000 and a sparse suburban feel. Residents enjoy well-planned communities, good public schools, and a variety of shopping and restaurant options.   

Sorrento

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Residents enjoy the peaceful vibe and rural spirit of this unincorporated town, which is full of wildlife and open space. For amenities, they head to nearby Mount Dora and Sanford.

Apopka

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Apopka is filled with small town charm, locally-owned businesses, and tree-lined neighborhoods. Plus, it’s one of Central Florida’s top destinations for outdoor recreation with numerous lakes, springs, and natural land areas.

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Mount Dora

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Residents of Mount Dora enjoy beautiful, waterfront downtown that features shopping and dining as well as seasonal festivals. It's a lovely spot for dog owners, as the city is very pet-friendly!

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The History of Orlando

 

In 1838, in the midst of the Seminole Wars, the United States Army built Fort Gatlin in an effort to protect the people who had settled just south of present-day Orlando. A small community soon developed there, called Jernigan in honor of the Jernigan family, who established the area’s first permanent settlement. By 1856, as the community grew into the northern territory, the name was changed to Orlando. The town, with 85 residents, was incorporated in 1875.

 

There are four stories told about the inspiration behind the name Orlando. In the first tale, Judge James Speer, who played an important part in securing Orlando as the county seat, named the city after a man who previously worked with him. The second story claims that Judge Speer used a character in Shakespeare’s comedy As You Like It for inspiration. The third anecdote argues that Mr. Orlando, during a trip to Tampa, got sick, died, and was buried in the community. Following his death, travelers would say, “There lies Orlando” as they passed through the town. In the fourth and final story, during the Seminole Wars, after fighting back the Indians near Lake Minnie (now Cherokee), soldiers spent the night in the area. Sentinel Orlando Reeves was standing guard when he noticed a floating log and realized it was a disguised Indian. He fired his gun, warning his fellow soldiers of the ambush, and then died by the Indians’ arrows. He was buried near Lake Eola, which is now part of a public park in Downtown Orlando. 

 

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For more information about North Orlando and surrounding areas, check out our blog series,

Thinking About Relocating to Central Florida? Find the Right Neighborhood for You!

 

Part 1: West Orlando

 

Part 2: East Orlando

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Part 3: North Orlando

 

Part 4: South Orlando

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