Top 10 Things to Do in Davenport, Florida

In the sprawling landscapes of Florida, where the allure of sandy beaches and palm trees is almost ubiquitous, lies a lesser-known treasure that promises a blend of tranquility, adventure, and a welcoming community spirit. Davenport, Florida, may not headline the typical tourist brochures, yet it holds a charm and a host of attractions that make it a unique destination for visitors and a coveted haven for those looking to put down roots.

This small city, situated in Polk County, is a gateway to the magic of Central Florida, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle while keeping the excitement of the region’s famous attractions within easy reach.

Beyond its strategic location, Davenport boasts an array of activities, beautiful natural surroundings, and an affordable lifestyle that is attracting a growing number of residents. Whether you’re drawn by the promise of year-round sunshine, the proximity to Walt Disney World, or the allure of a tight-knit community, Davenport offers a compelling blend of reasons to visit and even more to stay.

Let’s spring into the heart of what makes lovely Davenport, Florida, not just a place to visit for vacation but a place to call home.

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Why Davenport is a Great Place to Move To

1. A. Affordability Meets Quality of Life: One of the most compelling reasons to consider Davenport as your next home is its affordability. The cost of living here is more favorable than in many other parts of Central Florida, especially those closer to Orlando. However, this affordability doesn’t come at the expense of quality. Davenport offers modern amenities, quality housing, and a growing job market.
2. B. Proximity to Everything: Living in Davenport means you’re never too far from adventure. The city’s strategic location near central attractions like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld, coupled with its easy access to Orlando and Tampa, positions Davenport as a convenient hub for work and play.
3. C. The Great Outdoors: For those who love the outdoors, Davenport does not disappoint. The year-round warm climate allows residents to enjoy various activities, from golfing and fishing to hiking and boating. Florida’s natural beauty is on full display here, offering a serene backdrop to everyday life.
4. D. Community Spirit: Despite its growth, Davenport has managed to retain a close-knit community vibe. It’s a community where neighbors become friends, and the small-town spirit is alive and well. This sense of community and the area’s rich diversity create a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers.
5. E. A Place for Families: Davenport is an attractive location for families. With family-friendly activities, good schools, and safer neighborhoods, the city caters to a wholesome lifestyle where children can thrive, and families can create lasting memories.

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The Top 10 Activities in Davenport

Davenport is overflowing with attractions that promise fun and adventure for everyone. Each destination and activity offers a unique blend of entertainment, relaxation, and cultural enrichment that caters to a wide array of interests and age groups. Here’s a look at the top 10 activities that residents and visitors alike can enjoy:

1. Lake Eva Community Park

Beyond its sprawling playgrounds and picturesque picnic spots, Lake Eva Community Park is a focal point for community life. Its vast aquatic center is perfect for cooling off during hot summer days. The park regularly hosts community events, such as outdoor concerts and holiday celebrations, which imbue a strong community spirit and provide countless opportunities for making memories.

Lake Eva Community Park also hosts numerous community events and festivals throughout the year, ranging from Independence Day fireworks and celebrations to outdoor concerts and movie nights. These events draw the community together and showcase the park’s role as a recreational space and a cultural and social gathering point.

2. Bok Tower Gardens

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Lake Wales, just a short drive from Davenport, Bok Tower Gardens is a remarkable fusion of art, nature, and music. This National Historic Landmark is more than just a garden; it is a testament to the vision of Edward W. Bok, who sought to create a sanctuary that combines the beauty of lush landscapes with the enchanting sounds of music. The centerpiece, a majestic 205-foot tall Singing Tower, houses one of the world’s finest carillons, with 60 bells that serenade visitors with melodies throughout the day.

Surrounding this architectural marvel is a verdant paradise meticulously landscaped to showcase the diversity of Florida’s flora. Meandering paths invite visitors to explore a variety of garden rooms, each designed with a different theme and atmosphere, from the tranquil Reflection Pool to the exotic Jungle Garden.

Beyond its stunning gardens and musical performances, Bok Tower Gardens offers many experiences that deepen the connection between nature and the arts. The Pinewood Estate, a 20-room Mediterranean-style mansion located within the gardens, provides a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the 1930s and the rich history that envelops the area.

Throughout the year, Bok Tower Gardens hosts various events and workshops catering to all ages and interests, including seasonal festivals, educational programs, and photography classes, further enriching the visitor experience. The tranquilit

y and beauty of the gardens also make it a popular spot for bird watching, painting, or simply enjoying a peaceful afternoon immersed in nature’s splendor.

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3. ChampionsGate Golf Club

ChampionsGate Golf Club, nestled in the heart of Central Florida, near Davenport, is a premier golfing destination that offers a sublime experience for enthusiasts. Designed by the legendary Greg Norman, the club features two 18-hole championship courses that are as challenging as they are beautiful.

The National Course and the International Course are masterfully crafted to blend seamlessly with the natural environment, featuring gently rolling hills, mature trees, and scenic wetlands. These courses test the skill and strategy of players while providing them with picturesque views at every turn.

The International Course, known for its links-style layout, offers a distinct British feel and presents a unique challenge with its fast greens and undulating fairways. Meanwhile, the National Course provides a more traditional American golfing experience, with lush landscapes and water hazards that demand precision and careful thought.

Beyond exceptional golfing, ChampionsGate Golf Club is renowned for its world-class amenities catering to players and visitors. The clubhouse is a haven of luxury, offering a full-service restaurant where guests can enjoy delicious meals with views of the greens, a well-stocked pro shop for all golfing needs, and locker rooms that provide a comfortable space to prepare for the game ahead or unwind after a day on the course.

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4. Hot Air Balloon Rides

Hot air balloon rides near Davenport offer an extraordinary way to experience the beauty of Central Florida from a vantage point like no other. As the sun rises and bathes the landscape in a soft, golden light, passengers gently lift off the ground and ascend into the tranquil early morning skies. The experience of floating silently above the rolling hills, lush orange groves, and sparkling lakes is almost magical.

With the horizon stretching out in all directions, riders can spy the iconic silhouettes of the rides at Walt Disney World, Epcot, and other landmarks in the distance, offering a unique perspective on this vibrant region. The calmness of the morning, combined with the panoramic views, provides a serene and almost dreamlike experience, making it a must-do for adventurers and romantics alike.

5. True Blue Winery

True Blue Winery is a true hidden gem that offers a delightful escape into the world of winemaking and rustic charm. As Davenport’s premier winery, it distinguishes itself with its boutique wine selection, all from locally grown blueberries. This family-owned and operated establishment showcases the region’s rich agricultural heritage and provides a cozy, inviting atmosphere for visitors to explore the nuanced flavors of their handcrafted wines. Tastings are conducted in a warm, friendly setting, allowing guests to savor each wine’s unique profile while learning about the winemaking process from the passionate owners.

Beyond wine tastings, True Blue Winery features a charming cafe that serves a variety of delicious, homemade dishes perfectly paired with their wines, enhancing the culinary experience.

Additionally, True Blue Winery often hosts events such as live music nights, wine release parties, and seasonal celebrations, fostering a sense of community and providing a vibrant gathering space for locals and visitors alike.

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6. Posner Park Shopping Mall

Posner Park delivers a modern retail and entertainment hub catering to diverse shopping and dining preferences. This sprawling complex is not just a destination for those looking to fulfill their shopping lists; it’s a community gathering place where visitors can find everything from fashion and home goods to electronics and sporting equipment.

The mall’s wide, airy boulevards and well-manicured outdoor spaces invite guests to stroll and explore the variety of stores at their leisure. With a mix of national retailers and local boutiques, Posner Park offers a shopping experience that balances well-known brands with unique finds, ensuring that there’s something for everyone, whether you’re updating your wardrobe, searching for the perfect gift, or searching for the perfect decoration for your home.

7. Disney World

The proximity of Davenport to Walt Disney World is perhaps one of the most enchanting aspects of living in or visiting this area. This world-renowned entertainment complex, just a short drive away, opens up a realm of magic and wonder for individuals and families alike.

Disney World is not merely a theme park; it’s a vast universe of imagination where beloved stories come to life in an array of attractions, shows, and experiences across its four iconic parks: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Each park offers a unique adventure, from the fairy-tale enchantment of Cinderella’s Castle to the futuristic innovations at EPCOT and the immersive movie magic in Hollywood Studios.

The availability and ease of access to such a magical place enrich the living experience in Davenport, making it an ideal location for those who dream of frequent visits to meet their favorite characters, explore new attractions, or simply soak in the vibrant, joyful atmosphere that Disney is known for.

Beyond the thrill of the rides and the allure of the parades, being so close to Disney World means residents can fully embrace the Disney lifestyle, taking advantage of seasonal events, festivals, and the ever-evolving array of experiences that Disney offers throughout the year.

Something new and exciting is always happening, from the international food and wine festivals at EPCOT to the spectacular Christmas decorations and Halloween celebrations across the parks. This proximity also allows for spontaneous visits to enjoy the fireworks, dine in themed restaurants, or explore the vast shopping and entertainment options at Disney Springs.

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8. Northeast Regional Park

Northeast Regional Park, located just a stone’s throw from Davenport, has firmly established itself as one of the premier destinations for outdoor sports and family fun in the Central Florida area. This expansive park is a haven for sports enthusiasts and families looking for an active day out, featuring many facilities catering to a wide range of activities.

With well-maintained soccer fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, and even a cricket pitch, the park is a bustling hub of activity where locals and visitors alike come to play, compete, and enjoy the beautiful Florida weather.

Including a dedicated, quality dog park also means that four-legged family members can join in the fun, making it a truly inclusive destination for all family members. For those who love the water, the park offers access to Lake Davenport, where fishing enthusiasts can spend a peaceful day amidst the scenic backdrop of the Florida landscape.

9. Central Florida Railroad Museum

The Central Florida Railroad Museum, located in the charming city of Winter Garden, just a short drive from Davenport, is a portal to the rich and fascinating history of railroads in Florida and beyond. Housed in a historic depot, the museum offers visitors an intimate glimpse into the world of railroading, showcasing an impressive collection of railroad memorabilia, artifacts, and photographs that span the development of the railroad industry from its inception to the present day.

The exhibits meticulously detail the evolution of rail travel and transport, highlighting the significant role railroads played in Florida’s economic development and expansion. Each item in the museum’s collection tells a story, from antique train equipment and signals to personal items belonging to the people who worked on the railways, offering a comprehensive narrative of the rail industry’s impact on American life.

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10. Local Golf Courses

Davenport and its surrounding areas in Central Florida are a haven for golf enthusiasts, boasting a wide array of golf courses that cater to players of all skill levels. From championship layouts designed by renowned architects to more casual, family-friendly courses, the diversity of golfing experiences is impressive.

Each course offers unique challenges and aesthetics, from lush, meticulously maintained fairways and greens to natural hazards that make each round exciting and unpredictable. The variety ensures that whether you’re a seasoned pro looking to test your skills or a beginner aiming to improve your game in a relaxed environment, there’s a course nearby that fits your needs. The region’s scenic beauty, with its rolling hills, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife, adds to the allure, making a day on the greens as visually rewarding as enjoyable.

Conclusion

Each of these activities encapsulates what makes Davenport and its surrounding areas so unique. They offer a mix of adventure, relaxation, and community engagement that appeals to residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of a hot air balloon ride, the serenity of Bok Tower Gardens, or the communal spirit of Lake Eva Community Park, Davenport provides a rich tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored.
Davenport, Florida, is more than just a gateway to the world-renowned attractions of Central Florida; it’s a community where the dream of an affordable, quality lifestyle becomes reality. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a family looking for the perfect place to settle, or someone seeking the tranquility of nature without straying too far from the hustle and bustle of city life, Davenport offers the best of both worlds. Discover the hidden gem of Davenport and see why it’s not just a great place to visit but a wonderful place to live.

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