Top 14 Attractions and Activities in Winter Springs, FL

This city, located in Central Florida, possesses the only developed shoreline on Lake Jesup. This expansive 16,000-acre lake is estimated to house more than 10,000 alligators.

Along the shores, individuals can explore an ancient cypress forest, with trees that are over 2,000 years old. Local equestrian facilities offer horseback treks, and visitors can embark on airboat excursions across the lake to observe its alligators and stunning avian wildlife.

With events ranging from live music performances to the Scottish Highland Games, Central Winds Park by Lake Jesup offers an array of engaging activities year-round. Winter Springs is indeed a city that embraces enjoyment.

1. Central Winds Park

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This well-kept park, located by the shore of Lake Jesup along the Cross Seminole Trail, hosts many of Winter Springs’ annual events.

Featuring baseball diamonds, basketball courts, and a fishing pier, Central Winds Park is a favored destination for recreational activities. For those seeking relaxation, the park includes shaded pavilions, picnic areas, a dog park, and playgrounds for children.

Among the annual festivities, the 4th of July celebration, highlighted by a remarkable fireworks display, stands out.

The park also boasts a nature preserve on its northwest side, leading down to the lakeshore. Lake Jesup is famous for its alligators, and traversing the nature trail provides a thrilling experience; I encountered several large alligators nestled among the bald cypress trees along the shoreline.

2. Cross Seminole Trail

Winter Springs is positioned near the northern terminus of a 23-mile trail that winds through the northern suburbs of Orlando on former railroad corridors.

For those who enjoy cycling, this trail offers extensive exploration opportunities in Central Florida. To the south, the path connects to the six-mile Cady Way Trail, traversing parts of Orange County.

To the north in Lake Mary, it links to the Seminole-Wekiva Trail, which extends for an additional 14 miles into Seminole County, following the route of the historic Orange Belt Railway.

The Black Hammock Trailhead serves as a local access point with a parking area and restroom facilities. From this location, visitors can ride to Central Winds Park or continue onward to Spring Hammock Preserve, renowned for its ancient cypress stands.

3. Spring Hammock Preserve

As the Cross Seminole Trail heads northwest, it leads to this 1,500-acre area on the west shore of Lake Jesup.

One notable feature of Spring Hammock Preserve is its diverse plant life. It is believed to shelter the largest stand of tulip poplars in the state.

Additionally, the preserve hosts a rare species of fern as well as some of Central Florida’s oldest and largest cypress trees.

Previously, a boardwalk facilitated access all the way through the swampy cypress hammock to Lake Jesup’s edge; however, repairs were pending at the time of my visit.

Adjacent to the preserve is Big Tree Park, home to Lady Liberty, a 2,000-year-old cypress tree towering at 90 feet.

4. Black Hammock Airboat Rides

Interestingly, Lake Jesup is reputed to be the most alligator-infested lake in the United States.

Recent estimates suggest that up to 13,000 alligators inhabit this expansive 16,000-acre body of water.

While swimming may not be advisable here, the lake serves as an ideal locale for observing native Floridian wildlife in their natural habitat. A short drive from Winter Springs, Black Hammock provides Coast Guard-certified airboat rides on a fleet of four vessels.

Experiencing alligators is guaranteed, in addition to turtles and spectacular birds, including bald eagles and ospreys. Bird Island, situated in the center of the lake, hosts the largest colony of wading birds in Seminole County.

Upon returning to land, visitors can savor southern culinary specialties, such as fried catfish and gator tail, at the onsite restaurant, and explore exotic birds in the aviary.

5. Bear Creek Nature Trail

For a brief glimpse into the stunning nature surrounding Winter Springs, the Bear Creek Nature Trail on the eastern side of the city offers a peaceful retreat.

Just a few steps into the trail, the suburbs of Winter Springs fade from view. Stretching nearly a mile, the path is lined with palms, live oaks, and magnificent ancient cypress trees.

Visitors will cross the creek on several small footbridges, with picnic tables available for those wishing to enjoy a meal al fresco.

As is common throughout Winter Springs, alligators are a feature of the experience. A notably large alligator, approximately five feet in length, is known to inhabit these woods. Therefore, exercising caution is advisable, particularly when accompanied by children or dogs.

6. Hidden Palms Ranch

For those interested in exploring more of the pristine wilderness surrounding Lake Jesup, Hidden Palms Ranch, located on the northern shore, is an excellent option.

Hidden Palms Ranch provides trail rides into the Lake Jesup Conservation Area, a diverse landscape consisting of dense wooded hammocks and floodplain wetlands.

During spring migration in May, this area attracts large numbers of shorebirds. At any time of year, visitors are likely to observe hundreds of American white pelicans around the water.

In the wooded areas, birds of prey, including bald eagles, ospreys, and hawks, can often be spotted perched in the trees. Trail rides typically last about 90 minutes and accommodate groups of up to five riders.

My preferred time to visit is late summer, when the landscape is adorned with the vibrant yellow blooms of thousands of wild sunflowers.

7. Museum of Seminole County History

Located just five minutes away in Sanford, this insightful history museum serves the entire region.

The museum occupies two buildings, the older of which was constructed in 1926. Originally called the Old Folks Home, it provided accommodations for the elderly, later transitioning to serve as the offices for the County Agricultural and Home Demonstration Agent during the 1960s.

The exhibits encompass a wide range of topics, including the Native American history of Central Florida, early military forts, 19th-century life, as well as the development of agriculture and industry. I spent considerable time delving into the history of the county’s fern production.

A particularly engaging feature for children is an interactive display with items including fossils and an alligator skull that they can examine.

8. Trotwood Park

This expansive neighborhood park provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation in Winter Springs. Amenities include basketball courts, tennis courts, and a baseball diamond.

A highlight for parents of young children is the splash pad, nestled among picturesque live oaks, which is a delightful facility that consistently attracts a large number of children during our visits.

The splash pad benefits from significant shade, as does the children’s playground, which features tree coverage along with shade sails.

Trotwood Park also comprises two lakes, with Lake Maria located in the south, featuring a fishing pier. Visitors can expect to observe turtles and wading birds, such as ibises, while fishing.

9. Scottish Highland Games

Source: Central Florida Scottish Highland Games / Facebook

Taking place over two days in mid-January, the Scottish Highland Games organized in Winter Springs is a traditional event that has been celebrated since the 1970s.

Hosted by the Scottish-American Society of Central Florida, this festivity honors the region’s vibrant Gaelic and Celtic heritage.

Although Central Winds Park’s tropical ambiance might feel a world away from the Highland’s heather, it transforms into a slice of Scotland for two days every January.

Culinary offerings include whiskey tasting, haggis, Scotch eggs, fish and chips, shortbread, and my personal favorite—scones.

Visitors can also explore various vendors selling traditional Celtic crafts. Most engaging for attendees are the live demonstrations, which showcase activities from sheep herding to bagpiping and Highland dancing.

The games themselves are the main attraction, featuring a range of heavy athletics events, including the caber toss and stone put.

10. Oviedo Mall

Located on the southeastern edge of Winter Springs, this shopping mall, which commenced operations in 1998, boasts nearly 100 stores. Although Oviedo Mall has experienced some challenges over the past decade, having lost two major anchor stores, it still serves as a convenient destination for local shopping and entertainment.

During my visit, prevalent national retailers included B. Dalton, GameStop, Dillard’s, and Claire’s, alongside a variety of local shops and service providers. District Eat and Play is a vibrant dining and entertainment center geared towards adults, featuring an arcade, pinball machines, bowling, and escape rooms.

A popular attraction is the Regal Oviedo Mall, which offers 22 screens with stadium seating and a selection that includes both blockbuster hits and classic films.

11. Winter Springs Festival of the Arts

Source: Winter Springs Festival of the Arts / Facebook

In mid-October, no occasion is better suited for enjoying mild sunshine and beautiful art than attending the Winter Springs Festival of the Arts.

Held at the Winter Springs Town Center, this festival has been thriving for over a decade.

Artists from local, regional, and national backgrounds showcase their works. The festival also has gained acclaim for its delectable food and drink offerings, including local craft beers.

Each year, live entertainment is featured, along with a crafts area for children to express their creativity.

12. Winter Springs Hometown Harvest

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By late October, much of the nation begins to feel the chill of early winter, yet Central Florida enjoys temperatures in the pleasant 70s and low 80s.

Despite the warm climate, the Winter Springs Hometown Harvest Festival embodies the essence of traditional autumn festivities.

Hosted at Central Winds Park, this family-friendly event features live entertainment, pumpkin carving, painting contests, and hayrides.

It’s a wonderful experience for children, with additional attractions such as bounce houses and a ‘trunk or treat’ event.

13. Winter Wonderland

Source: City of Winter Springs / Facebook

Commencing in early December, the Winter Wonderland Celebration in Winter Springs has delighted holiday enthusiasts for nearly 40 years.

This festival, the longest-running organized by the city, contributes to the joy of the festive season.

The core of the celebration features a Christmas tree lighting ceremony and parade, complemented by live music, food vendors, and a variety of activities for children.

The event occurs at Winter Springs Town Center and transitions into the Winter Wonderland of Lights, a charming drive-thru light display located at Central Winds Park.

Visitors are treated to the fascinating sight of palm trees adorned with shimmering lights. The display typically runs throughout the festival weekend and the subsequent weekend.

Since the dates for the event may vary annually, it is advisable to check the city’s website for precise information.

14. Central Winds Music Festival

Another noteworthy event to add to your calendar is the Central Winds Music Festival, scheduled for November. This festival was newly inaugurated during my visit and emphasizes live music, cultural expressions, and diversity.

Attendees can enjoy performances from an extensive and varied lineup of musical acts throughout the day.

Nationally recognized artists headline the event, while earlier slots feature emerging talents from Central Florida’s music scene. Furthermore, attendees can explore numerous food vendors and participate in games and activities suitable for all ages.