Longwood, Florida

Longwood is a historic city in Seminole County, just north of downtown Orlando. Originally settled during the late 1800s, the community developed around the South Florida Railroad and became one of Central Florida’s early agricultural centers, known for citrus groves and farming. Today, Longwood blends preserved historic character with modern neighborhoods, shopping, and convenient access to the greater Orlando metropolitan area.

The Historic Longwood water tower is one of the city's most recognizable landmarks, standing as a symbol of the community's long history in Seminole County. Prominently marked with the city's name, the tower welcomes motorists traveling through the area and serves as a familiar point of reference for residents. Today, it reflects Longwood's blend of historic charm and modern suburban growth just north of Orlando. — The Historic Longwood water tower is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, standing as a symbol of the community’s long history in Seminole County. Prominently marked with the city’s name, the tower welcomes motorists traveling through the area and serves as a familiar point of reference for residents. Today, it reflects Longwood’s blend of historic charm and modern suburban growth just north of Orlando. File photo: JennLShoots, licensed.

About the Community

Incorporated in 1923, Longwood is one of Seminole County’s oldest municipalities. The city’s Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and remains one of its defining attractions, offering visitors a glimpse into Central Florida before the region’s modern growth. Longwood has expanded considerably over the decades while maintaining a distinct identity rooted in local history.

Located along Interstate 4 and U.S. Highway 17-92, Longwood provides convenient access to metro Orlando, Altamonte Springs, Lake Mary, and Sanford. Many residents commute throughout Central Florida, while visitors often use Longwood as a quieter alternative to staying closer to Orlando’s major tourist districts.

Reiter Park is one of Longwood’s premier community gathering places, offering open green space, walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas for visitors of all ages. Throughout the year, the park hosts concerts, holiday celebrations, farmers markets, and community festivals that draw residents from across Seminole County. Its central location and family-friendly atmosphere make Reiter Park a popular destination for recreation and local events in Historic Longwood. File photo: JennLShoots, licensed.

Longwood offers a mix of established residential neighborhoods, business parks, shopping centers, and community parks. Reiter Park serves as one of the city’s best-known gathering places, hosting concerts, festivals, and seasonal events throughout the year. Nearby Wekiva Springs State Park and the Seminole Wekiva Trail also provide excellent opportunities for hiking, bicycling, wildlife viewing, and enjoying Florida’s natural beauty.

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Vicinity of Longwood

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Longwood hosts numerous community events throughout the year, including holiday celebrations, farmers markets, concerts, and festivals held in Reiter Park and Historic Downtown. The city’s recreation department offers youth sports, fitness classes, camps, and activities for residents of all ages. Event schedules and registration requirements vary throughout the year.

The Historic Bar Room is a locally owned restaurant and gathering place located along U.S. Highway 17-92 in Longwood. Known for its casual atmosphere, craft beverages, and live entertainment, it has become a popular destination for both residents and visitors exploring the area. Its historic-inspired architecture reflects Longwood's appreciation for preserving local character while supporting a vibrant dining and nightlife scene. — The Historic Bar Room is a locally owned restaurant and gathering place located along U.S. Highway 17-92 in Longwood. Known for its casual atmosphere, craft beverages, and live entertainment, it has become a popular destination for both residents and visitors exploring the area. Its historic-inspired architecture reflects Longwood’s appreciation for preserving local character while supporting a vibrant dining and nightlife scene. File photo: JennLShoots, licensed.

Dining options throughout Longwood range from casual cafés and coffee shops to barbecue restaurants, seafood, pizza, Latin American cuisine, and locally owned family restaurants. Shopping is available along State Road 434, U.S. Highway 17-92, and nearby commercial districts, while larger retail centers in Altamonte Springs and Lake Mary are only a short drive away.

Longwood Fire Rescue provides fire protection, emergency medical response, and rescue services for residents and businesses throughout the city. The department operates from strategically located stations that allow crews to respond quickly to emergencies while also supporting public education and community safety programs. Working alongside the Longwood Police Department and neighboring agencies, Longwood Fire Rescue plays an essential role in protecting the community every day. File photo: JennLShoots, licensed.

Visitors looking for additional attractions can easily reach Altamonte Springs, Winter Park, Sanford, and the many destinations throughout the Orlando area. Longwood’s central location makes it a convenient starting point for exploring Central Florida while offering a quieter atmosphere than the region’s major tourist corridors.

Whether you are visiting Historic Downtown, attending a community event, exploring nearby parks and trails, or simply passing through Seminole County, Longwood provides a pleasant mix of history, recreation, and convenient access to the rest of Central Florida.

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