New to The Villages
The Villages is unlike anywhere else, and this page is designed to help you experience what makes it so special.
Whether you're visiting for a few days, exploring before making a move, or spending time with friends and family, you'll find many of the places and experiences that residents enjoy every day. From lively town squares and scenic golf cart rides to outstanding local restaurants, live entertainment, recreation, and hidden gems, this page focuses on the experiences that truly capture the spirit of The Villages.
Use the filters below to build your perfect Villages getaway. We've hand-picked about 100 of our favorite dining spots and experiences, with most located right here in The Villages and a few exceptional destinations just a short drive away.
Looking for even more ideas? You're also welcome to explore our complete guides featuring 300+ activities and almost 300 restaurants in and around The Villages. And, if you are visiting The Villages, you might want to check out some additional resources: The Villages Maps and Should I Move to The Villages.
Enjoy your stay—we're glad you're here!
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Chocolates
Near The Villages
Large variety of discounted candy. Candy Gifting, Gift Baskets, Sugar Free Candies, Seasonal Chocolates.
Russell Stover Chocolate
950 Industrial Dr, Wildwood, FL 34785
4.7
Gifts
Chocolate Lovers
Unique Shopping
Ice Cream
Charlie's Pick
Boutique
In The Villages
They have a wide selection of accessories, purses, and jewelry to complement your outfit flawlessly.
The Rustic Rose Fashion Boutique
2757 W Torch Lake Dr, The Villages, FL 32163
5
Handbags
Appareal
Boutique
Accessories
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Self Guided Tour
Around The Villages
Self-guided tour for $5, no appointment is required. Guided tours available. but appointment needed.
Ziggy’s Haven Bird Sanctuary
84 N Florida Ave, Inverness, FL 34453
4.8
Unique Experience
Top Rated
Budget friendly
Birdwatching
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Catboats
Around The Villages
Ridiculously fun and unique. You'll be captaining your own personal catamaran for a two-hour adventure.
CatBoat Adventure
10354 Cypress Cove Ln, Clermont, FL 34711
4.8
Boat Rides
Unique Experience
Water Adventures
Water Adventures
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Diving & Snorkeling
Around The Villages
Dive or snorkel into an amazing prehistoric spring. hidden within a 120-foot wide cave. Ages 6 and older.
Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring
5390 NE 180th Ave, Williston, FL 32696
4.7
Scuba Diving
Snorkeling
Unique Experience
Top Rated Experience
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Boat Rides
Around The Villages
Feels like old jungle Florida: Day, sunset and private pontoon tours. All-weather covered pontoon boats.
Dora Canal Boat Ride
100 N. Alexander Street, Mount Dora, FL 32757
4.8
Low Walking Required
Boat Tours
Animal Encounters
Grandkids Visiting
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Theatre
Near The Villages
Providing high quality entertainment while providing educational opportunities, since 1951.
Melon Patch Players
122 W Main St, Leesburg, FL 34748
4.7
Comedy
Drama
Unique Shows
Try Something New
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Sanctuary
Around The Villages
Animal Encounters. Painting with Primates. Group Tours. Keeper for a Day. Sloths. Cows, otters and more.
Chase Sanctuary
SE 122nd Blvd, Webster, FL 33597
4.9
Primates
Animal Encounters
Unique Experience
Coolest Grandparent Ever
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Theme Park - VIP
Around The Villages
Guided access to attractions and insider experiences. Park tickets may be extra. Fills up WAY in advance.
Universal VIP Tour
6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819
Adventure Parks
Grandkids Visiting
Bucket List
Coolest Grandparent Ever
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Museum
Around The Villages
Strong multigenerational appeal. Attractions, events, exhibits and launches, info on launches and more.
Kennedy Space Center
Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL 32953
4.4
Kid - Approved
Space Museum
Unique Adventure
Try Something New
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Swim with Manatees
Around The Villages
5.0 Rating. Group and Private tours available. Swim with manatees for an experience you won't soon forget.
Nature's Discovery
32 SE US Hwy 19, Crystal River, FL 34429
5
Top Rated Experience
Swim With Manatees
Animal Encounters
Grandkids Visiting
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Brewery
Around The Villages
Serves a range of beers and ciders. Even does flights. Outdoor Seating. Music, trivia, bingo. In Inverness.
Nine State Brewery
200 Tompkins St, Inverness, FL 34450
4.7
Brewery Adventures
Craft Beer and Cocktails
Adult Friends Visiting
Ciders
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