Theme Parks & Small-Town Charm in Horizon West
Tips on renting in Horizon West
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Welcome to Horizon West, Florida, a vibrant community where families can create lasting memories. Just a short drive from Walt Disney World, Horizon West offers an enticing blend of adventure and relaxation. The Gulf Breeze Zoo features over 900 exotic animals, including rhinos and orangutans, promising an unforgettable experience for all ages.
For outdoor-loving families, Lake Louisa State Park is an essential destination. This expansive park offers horseback trail rides, off-road Segway tours, and kayaking adventures surrounded by Florida’s natural splendor. Residents benefit from exclusive discounts, making it an accessible and appealing family outing.
After a day of exploration, treat your family to the White Rabbit Dessert Experience in Flamingo Crossings. This charming locale serves made-to-order waffles, crepes, and homemade ice cream, perfect for indulging your sweet tooth. Horizon West is filled with family-friendly activities and unique finds, making it an ideal destination for your next luxurious family escape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Horizon West has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Hamlin Town Center in Horizon West stands out for its vibrant blend of residential, shopping, dining, and recreational amenities. Here, you can enjoy water sports on Lake Hancock and marvel at the nightly views of Disney fireworks. The town center also features a mix of single-family homes, luxury apartments, and a growing array of shops and restaurants, making it a dynamic hub of community activity.
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For launching a boat on Lake Hancock in Horizon West, the most convenient and publicly accessible option is the boat ramp located off Old Thicket Trace. This ramp provides easy entry into the 475-acre freshwater lake, ideal for skiing, fishing, and other water sports. Be aware that water levels can fluctuate, so it’s wise to check current conditions before your visit.
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While Horizon West itself does not have public docks or marinas, nearby options in Orange County offer convenient access to the water. The Ferncreek Boat Ramp and Highway 50 Boat Ramp are public facilities where you can launch your boat, though note that the Lake Down Boat Ramp, another nearby option, lacks public parking. For a more comprehensive waterfront experience, consider visiting the Riviera Beach Marina Village in West Palm Beach, which is a bit further away but offers paddleboarding, kayaking, boat rentals, and other water activities.
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The hiking trails at Horizon West Regional Park are currently closed to the public due to ongoing construction of Phase 1A, which includes the development of urban-style facilities and basic infrastructure. The park, located at 4715 Hamlin Groves Trail in Winter Garden, is expected to reopen by mid-to-late 2025, offering a blend of natural and family-friendly amenities amidst its 215-acre sprawl. For now, travelers must wait for the completion of this phase before they can explore the park’s various zones, including the Active, Lake, Natural, and Passive Recreation areas.
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For scenic hiking in Horizon West Regional Park, consider the Lake Hartley Loop, a 2.2-mile trail that offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding ecological environments. The NW Ponds Loop, a 1.1-mile trail, is another highlight, showcasing diverse natural settings. While the park is currently under construction, these trails remain accessible from the gravel parking lot on Hamlin Groves Trail at Mann Road, open from dawn to dusk for hiking and equestrian use.