May 13, 2025 
After helping countless families relocate to the Orlando area, we at BMS Moving & Storage have developed a deep appreciation for the city’s diverse neighborhoods. While tourists flock to the theme parks, Orlando locals enjoy vibrant communities with their own unique character and charm. If you’re planning a move to The City Beautiful, here’s our insider guide to the most magical neighborhoods for families.
1. Winter Park: Historic Charm with Modern Amenities
This upscale suburb north of downtown Orlando offers tree-lined brick streets, stunning Chain of Lakes, and the cultural hub of Park Avenue. Families love Winter Park for its excellent schools, walkable downtown, and the 23-acre Central Park where kids can play while parents enjoy the Saturday Farmers’ Market.
Local tip: Take the kids to the Scenic Boat Tour that winds through the interconnected lakes and canals for a peaceful glimpse of stunning waterfront homes and lush gardens.
2. Lake Nona: A Planned Community Paradise
This master-planned community southeast of Orlando International Airport has quickly become one of Orlando’s most desirable family neighborhoods. With top-rated schools, the innovative Lake Nona Medical City, and thoughtfully designed neighborhoods connected by bike trails and parks, Lake Nona is perfect for active families.
Local tip: Boxi Park, a vibrant outdoor venue made from repurposed shipping containers, offers family-friendly food, drinks, and live entertainment with a playground where kids can burn off energy.
3. Baldwin Park: Urban Village Living
Built on the former Naval Training Center site, Baldwin Park offers a walkable community centered around Lake Baldwin. Families enjoy the village center with restaurants and shops, miles of trails, and numerous pocket parks. The neighborhood’s New Urbanism design means kids can safely bike to school and community events.
Local tip: The Fleet Peeples Dog Park at Lake Baldwin is perfect for families with four-legged members, with dog beach access and plenty of space to run.
4. College Park: Quirky Small-Town Feel
Just minutes from downtown, College Park combines vintage charm with a youthful energy. The streets named after colleges (Princeton, Harvard, Yale) create a scholastic atmosphere, while the main thoroughfare, Edgewater Drive, offers unique shops and restaurants. This established neighborhood appeals to families who value character and convenience.
Local tip: Albert Park has tennis courts, a playground, and plenty of shade trees for picnics, making it a favorite weekend spot for local families.
5. Celebration: Disney-Inspired Community Living
Originally developed by The Walt Disney Company, Celebration offers picture-perfect neighborhood living with white picket fences, front porches, and community events. The downtown area features restaurants and shops surrounding a lake, while excellent schools, walking trails, and community pools make this a family paradise.
Local tip: Don’t miss the “snow” that falls nightly during December on Market Street, creating a magical holiday atmosphere that delights children of all ages.
6. Windermere: Lakeside Luxury
This small town surrounded by Butler Chain of Lakes offers peaceful, upscale living with excellent schools and a strong sense of community. Families choose Windermere for its natural beauty, spacious homes, and proximity to both Walt Disney World and downtown Orlando.
Local tip: The Windermere Farmers Market on Fridays is smaller than some others in the area but offers a friendly atmosphere where you’ll quickly get to know your neighbors.
7. Doctor Phillips: Culinary Paradise with Family Appeal
Named after a citrus industry pioneer, Doctor Phillips combines suburban comfort with urban amenities. The area’s “Restaurant Row” on Sand Lake Road offers some of Orlando’s best dining, while excellent schools and proximity to theme parks make it ideal for families. Beautiful neighborhoods surround the Butler Chain of Lakes, providing water recreation opportunities.
Local tip: Little Sand Lake Park offers a hidden beach area that’s perfect for families looking to cool off during hot Florida summers without the theme park crowds.
8. Avalon Park: New Urbanism at Its Best
This thoughtfully designed community in east Orlando emphasizes walkability and community connection. With schools, parks, and shopping all within the neighborhood, families can enjoy a self-contained lifestyle while still having easy access to downtown Orlando. The town center hosts regular events like movie nights and farmers markets.
Local tip: The July 4th celebration in Avalon Park rivals many larger venues, with family activities all day and an impressive fireworks display over the lake.
9. Lake Mary: Family-Friendly Suburban Living
Just north of Orlando in Seminole County, Lake Mary offers excellent schools, master-planned communities, and a strong job market with many corporate headquarters. The revitalized downtown area provides charming shops and restaurants, while numerous parks and trails keep families active.
Local tip: Central Park at City Hall hosts frequent community events, including a spectacular annual Christmas tree lighting and holiday celebration.
10. Winter Garden: Historic Small Town with Modern Appeal
West of Orlando, Winter Garden has transformed its historic downtown into a vibrant district centered around the West Orange Trail. Families love the Saturday farmers market, splash pad, and Plant Street Market with local food vendors and craft brewery. The combination of small-town charm with modern amenities makes Winter Garden increasingly popular with families.
Local tip: Explore the Winter Garden Heritage Museum with kids to discover the area’s citrus industry history through interactive exhibits, then cool off at the downtown splash pad before grabbing homemade ice cream at Scoops Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Store on Plant Street.
Finding Your Orlando Magic
What makes these neighborhoods truly magical isn’t just their amenities but the sense of community they foster. Orlando’s diverse neighborhoods offer something for every family preference, whether you’re looking for historic charm, planned community convenience, or proximity to specific schools or workplaces.
At BMS Moving & Storage, we’ve helped countless families find their perfect Orlando neighborhood. Beyond the tourist attractions, Orlando offers an exceptional quality of life with year-round sunshine, diverse communities, and endless opportunities for family adventures.
Ready to find your own piece of Orlando magic? Contact our team for a personalized moving consultation. We’ll help you not just move your belongings, but truly settle into the neighborhood that feels most like home for your family.
Happy house hunting, and welcome to Orlando – where the magic extends far beyond the theme parks!
