Attractions and Places To See around Longwood - Top 14

Longwood offers several beautiful natural spots. You can visit Wekiwa Springs for swimming, kayaking, and hiking, or enjoy the tranquil views at Sand Lake, Wekiwa Springs State Park. Big Tree Park is home to ancient bald cypress trees like 'Lady Liberty,' and Spring Hammock Preserve provides extensive trails for bird-watching and experiencing Central Florida's natural landscape.

Yes, the Longwood Historic District is a central attraction, featuring 37 historic buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Key sites include the 1885 Queen Anne-style Bradlee-McIntyre House, which is now a museum, and the unique 1873 Inside-Outside House. You can also see the Historic Civic Center, one of Longwood's oldest original buildings, and the historic Longwood Village Inn.

Families can enjoy a variety of activities. Reiter Park offers playgrounds, a splash pad, and sports courts, along with an amphitheater for events. For active fun, Planet Obstacle is a large indoor obstacle park, and Candyland Sports Complex provides facilities for baseball, tennis, and a skatepark. The Paint the Trail Artwork display also offers a unique visual experience for all ages.

Longwood is well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts. The Cross Seminole Trail and Seminole Wekiva Trail offer extensive multi-use paths perfect for cycling, jogging, and walking. You can find various hiking routes, including easy options like the Minnehaha Park Loop or the Sabal Point Sanctuary Trail. For more details on routes, check out the Hiking around Longwood or Running Trails around Longwood guides.

Absolutely! The Paint the Trail Artwork [Just past mile marker 7.25 EB] is a spectacular display of hundreds of paintings on privacy fences lining the trail, created by artist Jeff Sonksen. It's a must-see for its creativity and community spirit.

Several attractions in Longwood are designed to be accessible. The Seminole Bridge, which safely crosses a busy highway, is wheelchair accessible. Additionally, the Howell Creek Fishing Pavilion offers a covered rest area with benches on a wooden bridge, also designed for accessibility.

While Longwood's natural attractions are enjoyable year-round, November is a particularly vibrant time due to the annual Longwood Arts and Crafts Festival. This two-day event in the historic downtown features over 200 arts and crafts exhibitors, offering a unique cultural experience.

Yes, Wekiwa Springs is an excellent spot to cool off. The spring supplies 42 million gallons of cool freshwater daily, maintaining a refreshing 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Wekiva Island, a short drive away, also offers opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and riverside relaxation.

Reiter Park is a central hub for recreation, offering walking trails, playgrounds, a splash pad, and sports courts. Soldiers Creek Park is popular for team sports like soccer and softball, and also features nature trails. Candyland Sports Complex provides facilities for baseball, tennis, pickleball, basketball, and even a skatepark and bicycle track.

Visitors particularly appreciate the opportunity to immerse themselves in Florida's natural beauty. At Wekiwa Springs, the sparkling, cool water is a highlight for swimming and exploring by canoe or kayak. The tranquil atmosphere and scenic views at places like Sand Lake and the ancient trees at Big Tree Park are also highly valued for their serene beauty and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Beyond the historic district's general charm, the Inside-Outside House stands out as a unique architectural landmark. Built in 1873, this mail-order home features its framing exposed on the exterior, showcasing an early example of pre-fabricated residential design.

For more in-depth information about the Longwood Historic District, including details on its buildings and self-guided walking tours, you can visit the official website of the Longwood Historic Society at historiclongwood.com.