Central Florida has more to offer than just theme parks. While Disney World attracts nearly 52 million guests annually, the community of Windermere, Florida shouldn't be overlooked.
Located in Orange County, Florida, just 3,000 residents call this picturesque town home, adding to its charm. With close proximity to Orlando and its attractions, residents love the mix of city and suburban life.
With top-rated school systems, luxurious homes, and plenty of amenities, families and retirees are flocking to this developing area.
Are you ready to join this close-knit town and learn more about what Windermere, Florida has to offer?
Grab your moving check-list and let's get started.
It's All in the Details
Before we get into exactly what makes Windermere one of Florida's most sought-after communities, let's cover exactly where it is and some demographics.
Windermere is located just 9.9 miles (about a 20-minute drive) from Orlando, making it part of the Orlando metropolitan statistical area.
Windermere was established in 1889 and later redeveloped in 1925, with its biggest expansion occurring in 2007. At this time, Windermere proposed to annex two local subdivisions -- Butler Bay and Isleworth.
Although Isleworth remained independent, Butler Bay was annexed into Windermere with an impressive 90% approval rating.
Residents of Windermere enjoy a sparse suburban feel and most own their homes outright. With a low crime rate and highly-rated schools, it's a highly sought after area for growing families.
There are also plenty of job opportunities in Windermere and in the local city of Orlando. Windermere residents enjoy a healthy mix of a bustling nightlife, cultural enrichment, and a community-feel.
Home to several lakes and original dirt roads, both locals and visitors love the quaint atmosphere that this Florida suburb offers.
Windermere School Systems
If you're a family moving to the Windermere area, the school systems won't disappoint. In fact, they're some of the highest-rated in the state of Florida. All of Windermere's public schools received an A-rating based on reviews.
Elementary school-age children will attend either Windermere Elementary School, Lake Whitney Elementary, and Orlando Science Elementary Charter School.
Charter schools are also a popular option for upper-grade levels. Orlando Science Middle/High Charter School and Olympia High School are both quality establishments for older students.
Windermere residents can also send their children to The New Academy, a private school servicing students Kindergarten through 8th grade.
Things to Do for Residents of All Ages
Living in Windermere is about more than just going to work and school. With plenty of amenities and things to do, there's truly something for everyone.
Here are just a few of the most notable features in and around Windermere, Florida that make it a desirable place to call home.
Fun for Kids
From theme parks to nature parks, children living in Windermere have plenty of options to stay entertained and active!
Two of the most popular options are, of course, the local theme parks of Disney World and Universal Studios. Located less than 10 miles from Orlando, Windermere residents can plan several day trips or long weekends to these family-friendly theme parks.
Families looking for a more educational experience will love the Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, also located in Orlando. Ripley's Believe It or Not is another favorite.
When you want to get your kids moving, try the Trapeze Federation or Escapology Escape Rooms.
Fun for Adults
Fun in Windermere isn't just for the kids! Adults will love living here, too. Even the theme parks have nightlife activities for adults.
Disney World's Downtown Disney offers shopping, street entertainment, and plenty of dining options. Universal's Citywalk is another fun-filled nighttime activity for adults and families.
Florida living wouldn't be complete without picturesque beaches. Although Windermere is located in the center of the state, residents can still take advantage of beautiful local beaches.
Windermere isn't far from world-class Cocoa, Daytona, and New Smyrna Beaches. Make it a day for the family or catch some rays with your partner.
Other hidden treasures include local markets and festivals in the nearby cities of Orlando, Mount Dora, and Daytona Beach.
Communities and Housing Options
After you finish a day of fun-filled activities, you'll want to retreat to your gorgeous, comfortable home. With several communities and housing options in Windermere, residents will find something for every taste and budget.
Here are some of the most popular and sought-after communities in Windermere, Florida.
Butler Lake
The name says it all. If you're looking for lakefront property in or around Windermere, look no further than the Butler Chain of Lakes.
The Butler Lake area is home to eleven gorgeous lakes:
- Lake Butler
- Lake Tibet
- Lake Chase
- Lake Down
- Lake Sheen
- Lake Louise
- Lake Blanche
- Lake Isleworth
- Wauseon Bay
- Pocket Lake
- Little Fish Lake
These lakes are known for their quality water and robust animal habitats.
Sports fans will love knowing that they share a piece of real estate with some of the greats. Shaquille O'Neal, Ken Griffey Jr., and Tiger Woods have all called Butler Lake home.
With breathtaking lakefront views, it's no surprise that the Butler Chain of Lakes is one of Windermere's most popular areas. Residents also credit the small-town feel and natural settings as some of the area's most attractive features.
Isleworth
Isleworth is recognized as one of Central Florida's most prestigious private golf club communities.
Spanning over 600 acres, Isleworth is located among the Butler Chain of Lakes and boasts countless amenities and gorgeous estate homes. Residents will enjoy views of either the world-class golf courses, art, or lakes.
In addition to golf, residents have access to tennis and racquetball courts, a fitness center, a spa, and water recreations. Fishing, paddle boarding, and boating are just a few ways residents can enjoy lake life living.
For those who prefer swimming, Isleworth's infinity-edge, resort-style pool features lush daybeds and lake views. Families will love the children's splash pad and nearby poolside grill.
Afterschool youth programs and summer camp are two more amenities that growing families can enjoy for years to come.
The Reserve at Belmere
This fine, residential community offers gated entrances, a clubhouse, and homes that accommodate all tastes and budgets. Homes in The Reserve at Belmere range from $300,000 to $1.5 million.
Families and retirees flock to this development which offers a lakefront community park and access to private Lake Whitney. Adults can enjoy the world-class fitness center and tennis courts.
Kids will love the community's playgrounds, fishing pier, and sand volleyball area when they're not attending the A-rated schools of Orange County.
The Reserve at Belmere offers a close, tight-knit community feel where residents know each other's names. The 24/7 guard gate gives residents peace of mind that their homes and loved ones are protected.
Casabella at Windermere
Casabella at Windermere is one of the area's newest luxury communities. This gated community currently offers 79 luxury estate, single-family homes.
Homes are competitively priced, with most in the low millions. Square footage of these homes starts at 5,441, with most having between 4 and 6 bedrooms.
Growing families and retirees alike will love this up-and-coming, gated community.
The houses of Casabella at Windermere are proudly designed and built exclusively by Toll Brothers. The gated community offers security and amenities for residents and is located less than 20 miles from Orlando.
Casabella at Windermere is also minutes from upscale shopping and dining at the Winter Garden Village, Mall at Millenia, and Restaurant Row. Local activities include time spent on the Butler Chain of Lakes, first-class golfing, and a playground for the kids.
Keene's Point
If you want plenty of homes and communities to choose from, consider Keene's Point. The Keene's Point development started in 1998 and since then, has expanded into one of the areas most sought-after communities.
Keene's Point boasts both natural beauty and luxury living. This upscale community blends quiet, quaint living with timeless beauty.
Keene's Point has 14 distinct communities that all share an abundance of amenities. Residents have access to world-class golf courses, a swimming pool, nature preserves, tennis courts, an illuminated playground for kids, and The Golden Bear Golf Club.
Just south of Keene's Point you'll find 400 acres of the Tibet-Butler Preserve which houses a bird sanctuary and several endangered species of plants and animals.
Prospective buyers can choose from pre-existing homes or work with one of the community's award-winning builders to create a custom home of your dreams.
Prepare to Call Windermere, Florida Home
Windermere, Florida is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after areas in Central Florida to start a family, retire, or lay roots.
With a combination of world-class golfing and attractions, plus top-rated schools and picturesque lake living options, there's truly something for everyone.
Choose from one of the areas many luxury communities. Most areas are gated with exclusive amenities for residents, protecting both your safety and privacy.