Welcome to Orange City Florida Vacation Rentals

Orange City Vacation Rental Homes

Orange City Attractions and Activities

Orange City History

This area was originally inhabited by the Timucua Indians. Dr. French, and six of his friends, bought a large tract of land in 1874, and established the community which is now known as Orange City. It was named for the orange groves planted around the city. The first public school of Volusia County was founded in Orange City in 1878, and the city was incorporated in 1882.

Town Hall was built in 1928 at a cost of $20,000 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2002. The bell in the tower at Town Hall weighs 517 pounds.

The “Town” of Orange City has made this page of our website a “Step Back in Time” to let you to see how our city became what it is today and to share some interesting facts.

In 1874, Dr. French and six friends purchased about 5,000 acres of land and started the town that became Orange City.

The historic 1876 Heritage Inn is the oldest operating hotel in Volusia County and one of the oldest in the State of Florida. It is a contributory historic property in the recently approved Orange City Historic District. Current owners/innkeepers, Amy and Randall Farley, welcome inquisitive visitors to come in and see this historic building. They would also welcome anyone that can add to the history of this building by sharing pictures, experience, or more.

Surrounding areas:

Orange City Weather & Climate

Central Florida, situated at the approximate geographic center of the state, enjoys year round warm weather. Although it rains nearly every day in the summertime, it rarely interferes with outdoor plans because thunderstorms tend to pass quickly, with the sunshine returning soon afterwards. Expect hot and humid conditions throughout the summer months. Virtually every structure in central Florida is air conditioned, which always provides relief, as does swimming in the nearby "Chain of Lakes" region. The average annual rainfall in central Florida is approximately 48 inches, which means the region remains lush and green all year long. Winters are very pleasant with mild temperatures, plenty of sunshine and much less humidity.

Attractions

Marshall Park This 3-acre (.5 ha) park features nature trails, a picnic area and a boardwalk overlooking a wetland area. Visitors have the opportunity to view wildlife in the park.

Blue Spring State Park Locacted in Orange City, this state-run park is open year round from 8 am until sundown. History is a big part of the park, and there are structures and artifacts that reveal to visitors Florida's past.

Valentine Park Located on West French Avenue just two blocks east of Blue Springs State Park, Valentine Park offers visitors a nature trail, picnic pavillions, a beach volleyball court and a multi-purpose sporting field.

Mill Lake Park With multiple access points and a picnic area, Mill Lake Park natural perserve is an ideal destination for family gatherings. The 20 acre (8 ha) park is comprised of wooded areas and a small lake.

Festivals

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