Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Ocoee, Florida

Located just 15 minutes west of downtown Orlando, Ocoee is a city that transitioned from fruit farming to a vibrant community in the 21st century.

During the spring, visitors have the unique opportunity to pick their own blueberries. Additionally, a local farm within the city offers fresh produce alongside goats, sheep, and ducks.

The primary gathering spot in Ocoee is the picturesque waterfront park by Starke Lake, which hosts the acclaimed Ocoee Music Festival each March, featuring numerous renowned acts.

Adjacent to Ocoee, Winter Garden boasts a lively downtown, merely five minutes away. On Saturdays, an esteemed farmers’ market is held, while the West Orange Trail seamlessly connects Ocoee with Winter Garden and other communities in Orlando’s western suburbs.

1. Bill Breeze Park

Source: Perris Tumbao / shutterstock

Bill Breeze Park overlooks Starke Lake and serves as a beautiful waterfront park, playing host to annual events such as the Music Festival.

A scenic path lines the water by Lakeshore Drive, complemented by a series of pavilions nestled beneath the trees.

These pavilions, equipped with picnic tables and charcoal grills, are available on a first-come, first-served basis. There are few places more stunning at sunrise than this location by the lake.

Additional amenities include a boat ramp, fishing dock, and a charming fountain located at the northern end of the park.

2. West Orange Cinema

Source: West Orange 5 / Facebook

I enjoy discovering independent movie theaters, and Ocoee features a charming one located off State Road 50.

West Orange Cinema offers five screens, making it less extensive than many national chains; however, it compensates for this with its unique character and appeal.

While it may lack modern luxuries such as reclining seats, the sound and picture quality are commendable. Additionally, visitors have the option to order beer and wine, along with tables available for snacks.

One popular special here includes discounted Summer Kids’ Shows, held on Wednesdays throughout the school summer break.

3. Family Aquatic Center

Source: Mayor Rusty Johnson / Facebook

Located by the Jim Beech Recreation Center, this public aquatic facility offers an enjoyable experience for families looking to stay cool and engaged.

The center operates from May to September and features several amenities suitable for younger visitors.

With a zero-depth entry pool, it is ideal for young children who are not yet proficient swimmers. The maximum depth is just four feet and includes three different play features.

For supervising parents, numerous shaded seating areas are available to monitor children who can swim independently.

The Ocoee Recreation Department also provides swimming lessons for children, so it is advisable to check their website for more information.

4. Withers-Maguire House

Source: Ebyabe / Wikimedia

Adjacent to Bill Breeze Park, one of the oldest and most aesthetically pleasing residences in Orange County, the Withers-Maguire House, awaits.

Currently owned by the city, this house features Gothic Stick architecture popular during its construction in the late 1880s. Notably, the pine used in its building was sourced directly from the site.

A tour of this residence provides insight into the lifestyles of individuals who amassed wealth through the local citrus industry, which played a crucial role in the local economy for nearly a century.

The first floor serves as an event space, while fascinating historical exhibitions related to Ocoee can be explored on the upper level.

5. West Orange Trail

Source: Wikimedia

This 34-mile trail offers an excellent opportunity to immerse oneself in the stunning scenery surrounding Ocoee.

Situated along the routes of former railroads, the West Orange Trail traverses the city’s northern edge. The Ingram Outpost at 3024 Sugar Magnolia Dr serves as the most accessible trailhead, featuring a small parking area.

The pathway meanders through natural environments, vibrant downtown areas, historical landmarks, along with various playgrounds and resting spots.

For those who do not have their own bicycles, rentals are conveniently available in downtown Winter Garden, an ideal stop for lunch or to coincide a visit with the farmers’ market every Saturday.

6. Lake Meadow Naturals

For individuals interested in food origins, this organic farm in Ocoee is certainly worth a visit.

Lake Meadow Naturals operates as a working farm featuring an outstanding farm market, offering free-range duck and chicken eggs as its specialty.

Other exceptional products available include seasonal vegetables, fresh bread, coffee, fruit spreads, olive oil, raw honey, granola, cheeses, and pasture-raised meats.

A visit to Lake Meadow Naturals provides an authentic farm experience, showcasing a variety of happy and well-cared-for barnyard animals.

7. Tom West Blueberries

Central Florida’s warm climate during spring means an abundance of blueberries. Ocoee hosts a U-Pick farm that is conveniently located just moments away from Bill Breeze Park.

Established after World War II, Tom West Blueberries has transitioned into its third generation, transitioning from diverse fruit cultivation to specializing exclusively in blueberries.

The farm spans nearly 30 acres and features a picturesque lake within its grounds. In addition to picking some of the finest blueberries available, families can enjoy tractor rides and boat excursions.

Moreover, the farm stand offers delightful treats such as blueberry popsicles and freshly baked blueberry muffins.

8. Ocoee Music Festival

Celebrating over three decades, Ocoee has hosted a major celebration every March, previously known as the Ocoee Founders’ Day Festival before its recent rebranding.

Initially attracting only a few hundred guests, the festival saw attendance exceeding 45,000 individuals in the past few years.

The event features world-renowned performers alongside a carnival marketplace, beer garden, children’s activities, car show, and diverse culinary offerings.

Notable past performers include Joan Jett, Vanilla Ice, Night Ranger, The Mavericks, Chris Janson, Niko Moon, and Russell Dickerson.

9. Forest Lake Golf Club

Source: Forest Lake Golf Club / Facebook

Many golf courses in Florida face drainage issues after heavy rainfall; however, this is not a concern at Forest Lake Golf Club, situated in the environmentally distinct Central Florida Ridges and Uplands with its sandy soils.

The par 72, 18-hole course at Forest Lake Golf Club offers a delightful experience with minimal ecological impact. The abundance of lakes, live oaks, pines, and palms enhances its natural beauty. Notably, the par-3 #14 hole presents a thrilling tee shot over water.

The course stretches to slightly over 7,200 yards and boasts various tees, making it suitable for players of all ages and skill levels.

Visitors can benefit from beverage cart services, and dining options are available at the Rusty Niblick Pub for appetizing meals and refreshing beverages.

10. GameTime Ocoee

Offering an alternative for inclement weather, this indoor entertainment center resembles a venue like Dave & Buster’s. The complex features a sports bar and restaurant at its core, encompassed by a vast arcade.

Occupying over 25,000 square feet, GameTime Ocoee houses more than 120 machines, including both modern and retro video game options.

Additionally, it offers various prize games, claw machines, air hockey, rhythm games, and even the world’s largest Pac-Man machine. Notably, the venue includes a mini bowling alley with eight lanes and HD displays showcasing sports events.

The sports bar features numerous screens and offers a comprehensive menu of American favorites, ranging from pizza to buffalo chicken wraps.

11. Ellie Lou’s Brews & BBQ

Source: Ellie Lou’s Brews & BBQ / Facebook

Part of a Central Florida mini-chain with three locations, Ellie Lou’s Brews & BBQ is the premier choice for barbeque enthusiasts in the Orlando area, founded by a seasoned pitmaster with over 30 years of experience.

This establishment stands out due to its versatility, offering a variety of flavor profiles. Customers can choose the Memphis Sauce for sweet and smoky flavors or opt for the Carolina sauce featuring mustard and vinegar tang.

For those seeking a bit of heat, the Southern Lava Sauce, crafted with Ghost Pepper extract and Habanero Peppers, is available.

The side dishes are equally impressive, including collard greens, blue cheese slaw, corn muffins, cheesy grits, okra, and macaroni and cheese.

12. Crooked Can Brewing Company

Source: Crooked Can Brewing Company / Facebook

This craft brewery, nestled in Winter Garden, operates within the Plant St. Market, a truly diverse food hall.

Catering to a range of tastes, Crooked Can offers a variety of beers, including IPAs and malty Belgian ales. During my visit, I particularly enjoyed the Cloud Chaser Hefeweizen, one of the seven core beers available, along with a selection of seasonal brews.

Thanks to the shared space at Plant St. Market, patrons can expertly pair their beverages with a wide range of culinary offerings, from sushi and empanadas to BBQ and coal-fired pizza.

13. Winter Garden Farmers Market

Source: Winter Garden Farmers Market / Facebook

Ocoee is conveniently located just minutes away from one of America’s premier farmers’ markets, featuring over 100 vendors. Taking place every Saturday from 9 AM to 1 PM, the Winter Garden Farmers’ Market enjoys a dedicated pavilion in the downtown area.

If I were to recommend an ideal time to explore, it would certainly be around October, coinciding with the abundant fall harvest in Central Florida. Local farmers constitute approximately one-fifth of the participating vendors.

In addition to a variety of fresh, seasonal produce, the market showcases a diverse assortment of items such as spices, salsas, herbs, health and beauty products, crafts, and a wide array of prepared food.

Pets are welcome as long as they remain on a leash. Furthermore, live entertainment is available on most days, complemented by themed events throughout the year.

14. Central Florida Railroad Museum

Source: Central Florida Railroad Museum / Facebook

Another compelling reason to visit Winter Garden is the Central Florida Railroad Museum, located in the Tavares & Gulf Railroad depot built in 1913.

This museum explores the significant impact of railroads on the development of Central Florida. Upon entering, visitors are often impressed by the extensive collection of artifacts housed within its intimate space.

Exhibits include lamps, clocks, signage, photographs, tools, uniforms, charts, and a rare assortment of passenger china and silver service. The model railroad and Thomas the Tank Engine track especially captivate younger visitors.

The museum welcomes guests every Tuesday through Saturday from 1 to 5 PM.

15. Garden Theatre

Source: Garden Theatre / Facebook

Since its inception in 2008, downtown Winter Garden has featured a premier venue for live entertainment. Originally established as a movie theater in 1935, the building underwent conversion into a farm supply store several decades later.

The city acquired the theater in 2004, subsequently completing a meticulous restoration that revived its remarkable Mediterranean Revival architecture.

The venue’s courtyard-style design, palm trees, ‘windows’ over the proscenium arch, and night sky ceiling contribute to its enchanting ambiance.

Offering a diverse array of performances, the theater hosts Broadway shows, theatrical productions, live comedy, dance performances, and concerts featuring renowned artists and tribute acts.

Notably, the Broadway on Plant Series draws large crowds. During my visit, I enjoyed an exceptional production of Dreamgirls, making for an unforgettable experience.