Wildwood, located 50 miles northwest of Orlando and 75 miles north of Tampa in northern Sumter County, is known as the “The Crossroads of Florida.” A historically rural community, today Wildwood is home to the southernmost portion of The Villages, the nation’s fastest-growing metropolitan area.
Visitors will find charming shops and eateries such as Miz Kathi’s Cotillion, Adorn on Main, and Wildwood Antique Mall in downtown Wildwood, as well as plenty of dining, shopping, and entertainment options about three miles south of downtown at The Villages’ Brownwood Paddock Square. Designed to resemble a 19th-century Florida cattle town, Brownwood Paddock Square features a log-cabin stage with live music every night.
From the lakes to the golf courses, Wildwood offers plenty to do outdoors. Anglers and boating enthusiasts will enjoy exploring lakes Deaton, Miona, Okahumpka, and Panasoffkee. Covering nearly 4,500 acres, spring-fed Lake Panasoffkee is an excellent place to fish for largemouth bass, bluegill, and other desirable species. The Villages is known for its sprawling golf courses and although many of them are private, its championship golf courses are considered semi-private. Outside of The Villages, Continental Country Club’s par 72 championship course is open to the public.
Must-see places in Wildwood include the circa-1890 Baker House, which offers tours to the public at different times during the year. Throughout the year, the city hosts kid-friendly events that include Winterfest in December and Halloween Spooktacular in October. When the weather is warm, families with young children can cool off at the splash pad at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park.
Plan your trip at Discover Sumter.
WATERWAYS
Fish, boat, and paddle the lakes.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
See live entertainment and learn about the area’s history.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Explore the parks and trails.
FAMILY FUN
Go berry picking and visit the playgrounds.
DINING
Grab a bite downtown or check out dining options in The Villages.
SHOPPING
Find retail therapy in downtown Wildwood and The Villages.
GOLF
The Villages is known for its sprawling private and semi-private golf courses.
PLACES TO STAY
Book a stay at a hotel, RV campground, vacation rental, or bed and breakfast.
