Wekiwa Springs State Park is a beautiful natural oasis just 10 minutes from Hilton Garden Inn-Apopka City Center, known for its crystal-clear spring water, lush forest trails, and peaceful wildlife. It’s one of Florida’s most loved state parks — a place where the water stays a refreshing 72° year-round and the scenery feels like old Florida at its best. What Can You Do There? Swimming in the spring’s clear turquoise water Kayaking or Canoeing along the gentle Wekiva River Hiking & Nature Walks through shaded trails full of wildlife Picnicking in scenic, shaded areas Wildlife Watching — you might spot turtles, deer, otters, and lots of birds Relaxing in the natural setting a day before or after the celebration It’s a perfect place to slow down, take in the outdoors, and enjoy a little bit of Florida’s natural beauty.
For guests looking to add a little extra magic to their trip, Walt Disney World is about a 30-40 minute drive from the hotel - Hilton Garden Inn Apopka City Center (timing may vary depending upon traffic). It’s a perfect option for couples, or anyone who wants to add a little vacation to the wedding celebration!
If guests are looking for more thrills and immersive worlds, Universal Orlando Parks are roughly a 30 minute drive from the hotel - Hilton Garden Inn Apopka City Center (depending upon traffic). It’s a great option for a fun day out before or after the wedding celebrations. Don’t forget to check out their new park - Epic Universe!
About a 30 minute drive from the hotel: Winter Park’s epicenter is the cobblestoned Park Avenue District with acclaimed eateries, museums and some of the Orlando area’s best shopping. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore a robust parks system and the gorgeous Winter Park Chain of Lakes.
20-30 minutes from hotel: Take a stroll down Orlando’s indie side. Its offbeat, authentic, crave-able, bikeable side—the culturally casual side that weaves together art museums and renegade retro retailers. Novel Ivanhoe Village restaurants and watering holes are fused by the warm lake breezes flowing from downtown’s liquid playground. Lucky visitors enjoy the happiest of hours overlooking neon sunsets that tease the distant rush hour traffic. Lines are happily blurred between antique shopping and wine garden tastings. Juan and Grace's favorite area to eat, drink, and listen to live music or play trivia. Check out GB's Bottle Shop, the Gnarley Barley, Santiagos Bodega, and Mills Avenue. These are some of their favorite spots!
Mount Dora's arts and culture scene offers a variety of galleries and museums, including Modernism Museum Mount Dora, where visitors can also dine on contemporary Florida cuisine at 1921 Mount Dora and shop at the museum store. For a sampling of what local restaurants have to offer, take a food and wine tasting tour. Outdoors, Mount Dora’s parks and waterways offer plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities. Do some bass fishing on Lake Dora, which spans more than 4,000 acres, and see the Mount Dora Lighthouse at Grantham Park, one of the few inland lighthouses in Florida. Families with young children will want to visit the playground at Gilbert Park, which has a large pirate ship as well as climbing features. Take an eco-tour or rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the lake and the scenic, 1.2-mile Dora Canal.