Apopka(United States) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Auburndale, the top family-friendly hotel is Lake Auburndale Resort, located right beside Lake Auburndale and offering spacious family suites, a kids’ playground, and an on-site water park. The resort also provides free bicycles and BBQ grills, perfect for outdoor fun. Nearby, Florida State Park offers hiking trails and nature exploration. Another excellent choice is Hilton Garden Inn Auburndale, centrally located with indoor pool, free breakfast, and easy access to shopping and dining—ideal for families seeking comfort and convenience.

The downtown area of Auburndale is the most convenient place to stay, close to key attractions like Auburndale City Hall and Florida State Park, as well as restaurants and shops. It’s safe, walkable, and ideal for both self-drive travelers and short-term visitors. For those seeking peace and quiet, the lakefront district offers serene views and tranquil surroundings. Many local guesthouses feature private pools and gardens, providing authentic Southern charm and a more intimate experience.

Don’t miss the annual Florida Country Music Festival, held every spring in Auburndale, showcasing local folk artists and traditional instruments that reflect Southern heritage. Visit the Auburndale Historical Museum to explore the town’s 19th-century roots and early agricultural history. You can also join a hands-on pottery workshop led by local artisans, where you’ll craft your own souvenir using traditional techniques—perfect for immersing yourself in authentic Florida craftsmanship.

Try Southern-style roasted chicken with cornbread, a regional staple featuring crispy skin and juicy meat, served with homemade cornbread. Another must-try is Auburndale River Chowder, a rich, slow-simmered stew made with locally caught freshwater fish and herbs. Don’t skip the blackberry jam sandwich from roadside stalls—sweet, tangy, and perfect with hot coffee. Many restaurants use family recipes passed down through generations, highlighting deep-rooted culinary traditions.

Yes, Auburndale Lakeview Boutique Inn is ideal for solo travelers—only 12 rooms, each with a private balcony overlooking the lake, perfect for reading or stargazing. The inn offers guided night sky tours led by local astronomers. Another great option is Greenleaf Cottage, nestled in a quiet residential neighborhood with a private kitchen and garden. It often hosts small art exhibitions in common areas, creating a peaceful, creative atmosphere for independent explorers.

For couples, the Lakeside Starlight Suite at Lake Auburndale Resort offers a private hot tub, panoramic windows, and breathtaking lake views—perfect for a romantic evening under the stars. The hotel also arranges custom candlelit dinners in-room. Alternatively, Forest Haven Cabin provides a secluded wooden cabin with a fireplace and rustic furnishings, surrounded by oak trees. Some rooms include ambient bird call recordings for a calming, immersive experience.

Near Auburndale, visit Florida State Park, home to swamps, cypress trails, and birdwatching towers—ideal for nature lovers and photographers. The Auburndale Wetlands Preserve offers boat tours through winding waterways, where you may spot herons, alligators, and otters. For cyclists, the Florida Greenway Trail stretches 15 km through forests and farmland, offering scenic rides with minimal traffic—great for a relaxing afternoon escape.

Enjoy Lakeside Outdoor Cinema Night, held monthly at Lake Auburndale Plaza, where classic films are screened under the stars—bring a blanket and snacks. Every Friday, the Auburndale Night Market opens with local artisans, street food vendors, and live music, creating a vibrant community vibe. For a peaceful night out, book a Stargazing Tour with the local astronomy group, using telescopes to view constellations and planets—an unforgettable celestial experience.

Yes, several hotels provide shuttle services. Hilton Garden Inn Auburndale and Lake Auburndale Resort offer scheduled pickups from Orlando International Airport (MCO), priced at around $40 per trip. Reservations must be made at least 48 hours in advance. For guests without shuttle access, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft operate reliably across downtown and major landmarks, with transparent pricing and real-time tracking.

Yes, Auburndale is a smart summer retreat. Though Florida is generally hot and humid, Lake Auburndale Resort benefits from lakeside breezes, keeping daytime temperatures 2–3°C cooler than surrounding areas. The resort features air-conditioned rooms, shaded patios, and cooling mist systems. Forest Haven Cabin is surrounded by tall trees, naturally reducing heat. Opt for north- or east-facing rooms to avoid afternoon sun, and pair with ceiling fans and evaporative coolers for optimal comfort during peak season.