About Longwood, FL

History of Longwood

The history of Longwood, FL, stretches back thousands of years before Europeans ever arrived in the area. Before becoming known as Longwood, the area was first inhabited by various coastal tribes. When Europeans did first appear just north of Florida, which at that time was under control of the Spanish, the local tribes merged with escaped slaves seeking refuge in the area to form the Seminoles.

It was during this time that one of the area's most spectacular features, a 3,000-year-old cypress tree known as "The Senator," was used as a popular landmark for traveling traders in the region. Unfortunately, the tree was destroyed by an act of arson in 2012.

In the 1870s, the area that would eventually become Longwood began to receive its first white settlers. The first homesteaders were John Searcy of Tennessee and Edward Henck of Boston. After word of their settlement spread, communities in the area began to pop up.

Due to detailed documentation kept by Henck, a great deal is known about the founding of Longwood. He named it after a suburb in his hometown of Boston, created its first post office in 1878, and had a big role in the formation of the South Florida Railroad, which helped connect it to the rest of the world. He was even made mayor in 1885.

As the Longwood area continued to develop, so did its number of inhabitants, reaching more than 1,000 by 1886. However, the region's fortunes would soon change as the weather turned bitterly cold towards the end of the century in what was known as the Great Freeze. The harsh and unusual weather for the area led to failing crops and businesses, which caused many inhabitants to flee Longwood. It wasn't until 1910 that the population began to grow once again.

Since then, Longwood has flourished thanks to its multitude of attractions and large waves of tourists it sees during the winter months. But plenty of people are proud to call the Longwood area home all year long.

• Longwood History
• History of Longwood, Florida

Attractions in Longwood

Longwood is full of attractions that appeal to visitors of any age. From the natural vistas of Big Tree Park to the more physically challenging Aiguille Rock Climbing Center, anyone can have fun during their stay in Longwood. And for those looking to mix both scenery and physicality, you can't go wrong with Longwood's Wekiva Island, a great place for swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding while taking in the surrounding scenery and wildlife.

• Big Tree Park
• Aiguille Rock Climbing Center
• Wekiva Island

Where to Eat in Longwood

No matter your taste, you can find something to satisfy your cravings in Longwood. Whether you prefer your cuisine Italian, American, Thai, Greek, or anything else, there's a restaurant for you. Enzo's on the Lake is a fantastic Italian spot that was rated among the top 100 most romantic restaurants in America by OpenTable. There's also Nic & Luc Scratch Kitchen, which prides itself on using wholesome, natural ingredients. If you're looking for something a bit more casual with a great drink to pair it with, be sure to stop by Hourglass Brewing!

• Enzo's on the Lake
• Nic & Luc Scratch Kitchen
• Hourglass Brewing
• Bayridge Sushi
• First Watch
• Ali Baba House of Kabob

Where to Stay in Longwood

Due to the overwhelming amount of tourists who visit beautiful Longwood each year, the area has an abundance of quality accommodations available. From top-quality hotels to budget-friendly inns, you're guaranteed to find a place that's just right for you and your family during your stay in Longwood, FL.

• Embassy Suites
• Remington Inn & Suites
• Extended Stay America
• Hampton Inn & Suites
• Thurston House

Weather in Longwood

Longwood, FL has beautiful weather nearly year-round. While the summers can become uncomfortably hot and wet at times, it's never unbearably so. Temperatures rarely drop below 38 degrees or climb above 94 degrees.

• Weather in the Orlando Area
• Central Florida Forecast

Longwood Dental Care

Sweetwater Smiles has been providing family dentistry in the Longwood area for more than 20 years, and we're proud to be a part of this beautiful community. Sweetwater dental services include routine exams, fillings, Invisalign, and cosmetic dentistry in Longwood, FL. Our skilled dental professionals will strive to make your experiences with us a smile-worthy experience. Find a dentist in Longwood, FL, who you can trust at Sweetwater Smiles!