Where is Windermere FL? Nestled in the southwest corner of Orlando, Florida, lies the picturesque town of Windermere. Known for its stunning lakes, golf courses, and luxury homes, this charming community offers an unparalleled quality of life for its residents. But what makes Windermere such an alluring destination, and where is Windermere Florida exactly?
In this immersive guide, we’ll unveil the wonders of Windermere, from its prime location and breathtaking natural beauty to its top-rated schools and prominent communities. Whether you’re a prospective homebuyer or simply seeking a tranquil getaway, Windermere promises an unforgettable experience filled with enchanting attractions and a wealth of amenities.
Windermere is a city located in Orange County, Florida with access to nearby cities and attractions. More on Orange County.
Residents of Windermere enjoy convenient transportation options via major roadways such as the Turnpike and Interstate 4.
The city offers natural beauty, luxurious living, excellent schools & community events within close proximity to Orlando’s renowned attractions.
Situated within Orange County, Windermere is a suburb of the bustling city of Orlando, Florida. This captivating town is surrounded by a myriad of lakes and is neighbored by cities such as Winter Garden, Gotha, and Ocoee. With a population of just over 3,000 residents, Windermere maintains its small-town charm while offering the convenience and attractions of a larger city.
The town’s history dates back to 1989, with its incorporation in 1925. Deriving its name from England’s Lake Windermere, the town of Windermere is now home to many residents who appreciate the serene atmosphere and close proximity to downtown Orlando. With an area of 2.69 square miles and a growing town population, Windermere is a destination that offers natural beauty, luxurious living, and remarkable amenities.
Windermere’s geographical coordinates place it at 28.4956° N, 81.5348° W, within the heart of Orange County, Florida. This prime location situates Windermere as a suburb of Orlando, providing residents with easy access to the city’s numerous attractions and amenities. As a part of Windermere FL, the community enjoys the benefits of living in a beautiful and thriving area.
Being a part of Central Florida, Windermere falls under the governance of Orange County and enjoys the protection of the local Windermere Police Department, creating a secure environment for residents and visitors. The Orange County government plays a crucial role in ensuring this security.
Surrounded by the mesmerizing Butler Chain of Lakes, Windermere is a haven for those seeking a harmonious blend of natural beauty and urban convenience.
Windermere’s favorable location places it in close proximity to several neighboring cities and towns. Winter Garden, Gotha, and Ocoee are all just a short drive away, offering additional attractions, amenities, and a sense of community. With east and Winter Garden to the east, these surrounding communities contribute to the property tax revenue and overall appeal of living in the Windermere area.
Among the many recreational opportunities available in nearby areas, fishing and boating enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Lake Nally Park in Gotha, FL. With such a diverse array of surrounding communities, Windermere residents can experience the best of Central Florida’s attractions and natural beauty, all within easy reach.
Navigating Windermere is a breeze, thanks to its well-connected network of main roads and transportation options. The primary thoroughfares in Windermere include Winter Garden Vineland Road and Maguire Road/Main Street/Chase Road, providing residents with easy access to major highways and nearby cities. With an average commute time of 26.7 minutes, residents can enjoy the convenience of shorter travel times to work and play.
The road infrastructure in Windermere is consistently upgraded, with current projects aimed at improving drainage systems and road conditions across the town. Additionally, plans are in place to develop a bike and pedestrian trail to increase accessibility for residents and visitors alike. With its well-maintained roads and transportation options, Windermere makes it easy for residents to explore the town and its surrounding areas.
Within easy reach of Windermere are major roadways such as Florida’s Turnpike, Interstate 4, and State Road 429, providing efficient routes for residents to travel throughout the region. During rush hour, the approximate duration of the journey from Windermere to Interstate 4 is around 45 minutes.
Along these major roadways, residents can find a variety of services, such as:
Roadside assistance
Medical transportation
Senior transportation
Moving services
Communication facilities
Safety watch office
UPS store offering shipping and freight services
These services are available to cater to the needs of the community. Given the extensive network of roadways, Windermere residents enjoy the advantage of convenient and efficient transportation options.
For those who prefer public transportation, Windermere offers LYNX bus service and access to SunRail commuter train stations in nearby Winter Garden and Ocoee. Residents can find schedules and routes for the LYNX bus service on their website, making it easy to plan their daily commute.
Even though there are no direct public transportation routes from Windermere to renowned attractions like Universal Studios Florida, residents have the option to use water taxis and shuttle services for their travel needs. This combination of transportation options ensures that Windermere residents can always find a convenient way to get around.
One of the many advantages of living in Windermere is its close proximity to popular Orlando attractions. This makes it an ideal place to live for those who enjoy theme parks, entertainment, and a vibrant city atmosphere. With Walt Disney World, Universal Studios Florida, and SeaWorld Orlando all within easy reach, Windermere residents can experience the best of Orlando’s attractions without venturing far from home.
The town’s history is closely linked with Disney, as Disney executives lived in Windermere during the development of Walt Disney World. This connection has left a lasting impression on the community and contributed to Windermere’s appeal as a desirable place to live.
The globally renowned theme park, Walt Disney World, is situated merely 10 miles south of Windermere, providing its residents with effortless access to the park’s wonders. The estimated driving time from Windermere to Walt Disney World is approximately 15 minutes, making it a convenient option for families seeking a day of adventure and excitement.
While car and taxi are the most efficient routes to Walt Disney World, residents can also utilize public transportation to reach the resort. Once at the resort, Disney offers complimentary transportation options such as:
Skyliner
Monorail
Boats
Buses
These options ensure a seamless experience for Windermere residents.
Universal Studios Florida, yet another legendary theme park, is located roughly 12 miles east of Windermere, offering a range of entertainment choices for its residents. The journey from Windermere to Universal Studios Florida typically takes between 20 and 30 minutes, allowing for convenient access to the park’s thrilling attractions and shows.
Although there are no direct public transportation options available from Windermere to Universal Studios Florida, visitors can opt for water taxis or shuttle services, such as Wheeler Taxi Service, Rapid Transportation Service, and 24Seven Taxi, for a hassle-free experience.
SeaWorld Orlando, a well-liked marine-life theme park, is positioned approximately 14 miles southeast of Windermere, providing residents the chance to discover intriguing exhibits and exciting rides. With an approximate travel time of 30 minutes, residents can easily venture to SeaWorld to experience its incredible attractions and shows.
While precise public transportation options from Windermere to SeaWorld Orlando may be limited, residents can utilize the Moovit app to determine the most suitable route utilizing public transit. With a bit of planning, a visit to SeaWorld Orlando can be an exciting day trip for Windermere residents.
Windermere, Florida is celebrated for its scenic beauty, with the Butler Chain of Lakes and an abundance of parks offering numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. These picturesque settings offer residents a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life while still being conveniently located near Orlando’s attractions.
The Butler Chain of Lakes, a collection of 11 interconnected lakes, presents a stunning backdrop for water sports, fishing, and wildlife observation. Meanwhile, Windermere’s parks, such as Central Park, Lake Street Park, and Fernwood Park, provide residents with a variety of recreational activities and serene spaces to unwind.
The Butler Chain of Lakes consists of 11 interconnected lakes, offering residents a variety of water sports and activities, such as water skiing, wakeboarding, paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing. The chain includes Lake Butler, Lake Tibet, Lake Down, Lake Sheen, Lake Louise, Lake Chase, Pocket Lake, Lake Blanche, Wauseon Bay, Lake Isleworth, and Little Fish Lake, providing a myriad of opportunities for exploration and outdoor recreation.
In addition to the various water activities, the Butler Chain of Lakes is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including:
Alligators
Osprey
Blue heron
Great egret
Eagles
Pelicans
Owls
River otters
Turtles
Raccoons
Armadillos
A variety of bird species
One of the islands in the chain of lakes even houses a protected bird sanctuary, making the Butler Chain of Lakes a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Windermere is home to several parks and recreation areas, providing residents with an abundance of options for outdoor activities and leisure. Central Park, Lake Street Park, and Fernwood Park are just a few of the picturesque parks available for residents to enjoy.
These parks offer a range of amenities and facilities, such as picnic pavilions, park benches, wheelchair accessibility, and Wi-Fi availability at Central Park. At Lake Street Park, visitors can take advantage of scenic walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds, while Fernwood Park’s operating hours stretch from dawn until dusk, providing ample time for residents to enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Windermere offers its residents a superior lifestyle, with:
Top-notch schools, such as Windermere High School and Windermere Preparatory School
Community events
A variety of amenities that cater to all facets of everyday life
The town is served by the Orange County Public School System. With a median household income of $202,575 per year, Windermere is a costly place to reside, but its unique charm and outstanding amenities make it well worth the investment.
Windermere residents can partake in community events and activities like:
The yearly Windermere Art Affair
The Windermere Farmers Market
The popular Windermere Food Truck Night, happening on the fourth Friday of each month from September through May
These events provide opportunities for town residents to connect with their neighbors and engage in the vibrant community life that Windermere and Dr Phillips community have to offer.
Windermere is served by the Orange County Public School System, providing residents with access to excellent educational opportunities through schools like Windermere High School and Olympia High School. The prestigious Windermere Preparatory School offers an exclusive educational experience. It is located on the west side of Lake Butler, boasting a beautiful campus and top-tier facilities. OCPS.net
In addition to their strong academic programs, Windermere schools offer a variety of extracurricular activities such as:
STEM programs
Sports
Music and arts programs
Student clubs
After-school interest clubs
These opportunities allow students to explore their passions and develop valuable skills outside the classroom, making Windermere an ideal place for families to call home.
Windermere residents can take part in a variety of community events and activities that cater to a wide range of interests. The annual Windermere Art Affair, held on the weekend of March 11th and 12th, showcases fine art and features various artists and booths, providing a unique cultural experience for attendees.
Another popular event is the Windermere Farmers Market, which offers a broad selection of produce, bread, jewelry, and flowers for residents to enjoy.
The Windermere Food Truck Night is one of the town’s most widely attended community events, taking place on the 4th Friday of each month from September to May, and providing a fun and delicious way for residents to connect with their neighbors and sample a variety of cuisine from local food trucks.
Several prominent communities, known for their luxury homes, golf courses, and exclusive amenities, call Windermere home. Keenes Pointe and Isleworth are two examples of these communities, offering residents a luxurious lifestyle amidst the scenic beauty of Windermere’s lakes and parks.
These upscale communities provide residents with not only stunning homes but also access to top-rated golf courses and country clubs, such as the Golden Bear Club at Keenes Pointe and the private country club at Isleworth. With their exquisite landscapes and unparalleled amenities, these prominent communities embody the essence of luxury living in Windermere.
Isleworth, a distinguished community in Windermere, is recognized for its luxury homes, championship golf course, and private country club. This esteemed community offers residents an exclusive lifestyle, complete with picturesque waterfront views and opulent amenities.
Notable residents of Isleworth include professional golfers such as:
Tiger Woods
Mark O’Meara
Stuart Appleby
Robert Allenby
Charles Howell III
Lee Janzen
These residents add to the community’s reputation for excellence. With its luxurious facilities and esteemed community, Isleworth represents the pinnacle of Windermere living.
Keenes Pointe, another high-end community in Windermere, is famous for its beautiful homes, Jack Nicklaus designed golf course, and waterfront properties. The community’s Golden Bear Club offers residents access to an exceptional golfing experience, along with other exclusive amenities.
With its stunning landscapes and high-end homes, Keenes Pointe is an ideal choice for those seeking a luxurious lifestyle in the heart of Windermere. The community’s proximity to the Butler Chain of Lakes and various parks further enhances its appeal as an idyllic location for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
In summary, Windermere is a captivating oasis that offers an unparalleled quality of life for its residents. Its prime location near downtown Orlando, top-rated schools, and proximity to popular attractions make it an ideal place to call home. With the natural beauty of the Butler Chain of Lakes, numerous parks, and upscale communities like Keenes Pointe and Isleworth, Windermere provides a perfect balance of luxury living and serene landscapes.
Whether you’re a prospective homebuyer or simply seeking a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Windermere promises an unforgettable experience filled with enchanting attractions and a wealth of amenities. So, why wait? Discover the wonders of Windermere and experience the magic for yourself.
With a median listing home price of $1.1M, Windermere, FL is one of the most expensive cities, and its cost of living is 43% higher than the national average. The median price of a home in Windermere stands at $815,000 and its cost of housing index for is 110,3% of the national average. Overall, Windermere is an expensive city.
Millie Bobby Brown, Philip Michael Thomas, Tiger Woods, Ken Griffey Jr., and Vince Carter are among the famous people that call Windermere home.
Windermere is renowned for its luxurious golf courses, grand mansions, beautiful lakes, and unparalleled quality of life. As the small town comprises of only 2.69 square miles, three-quarters of this area consists of water.
Walt Disney World is situated 10 miles south of Windermere.
Yes, there are public transportation options available in Windermere, including LYNX bus service and SunRail commuter train stations nearby.