A Guide to Moving to Fort Myers
Updated May 2022
Oviedo, Florida has a small-town feel while still keeping its residents a short driving distance to the neighboring towns of Orlando, Kissimmee, and Sanford.
Located only 20 miles northwest of Downtown Orlando, Oviedo offers easy access to all the attractions that come along with Central Florida via HWY 417 and HWY 408.
With roots dating back to the Civil War times of 1865 when people settled along the shores of Lake Jessup, Oviedo (pronounced O-vee-dough) is known for its historic homes, its buildings, and its famous roaming chickens.
Oviedo, Florida Accolades
- Ranked #1 in “Best suburbs to raise a family in the Orlando area” by Niche
- Ranked #43 by Money in their “Best Places to Live 2020”
- AreaVibes gives Oviedo a livability score of 88 out of 100, based on its exceptional school district, its lower-than-average crime rate, and for all the fun things to do and wonderful amenities it offers residents.
While the cost of living may be 8% higher than the Florida average, the real estate market continues to be strong, making the safe town of Oviedo a fantastic place to live.
Fun Things to Do in Oviedo, FL
There is never a lack of things to do in Oviedo—outdoor activities, retail therapy, and family-fun events—so you’re sure to find something to delight everyone.
Here are 5 reasons packed full with examples for why your entire family will flourish in Oviedo, Florida.
1. Oviedo’s Great Outdoors
- Riverside Park has a skate park, lighted tennis courts, air conditioned racquetball courts, and a Jr. Olympic swimming pool.
- Little Big Econ State Forest is a fantastic spot for hiking. Different trails will lead you through different ecosystems and allow for chances to see wildlife along with the scenic views. There’s also paddling, horse and bike trails, primitive camping, and fishing.
- The Black Hammock for an airboat ride, where you’ll explore the unique nature the area has to offer, and stay for beautiful sunsets, great food, and live music.
- Center Lake Park, you’ll find a dog park, a playground, a splash pad, and dining and retail options. There is even a cultural center, perfect for parties and weddings, and an amphitheater that has a grand ballroom, an outdoor patio, and beautiful views.
- For some great family fun, grab a basket to fill and check out Pappy’s Patch U-Pick Strawberries to pick your own strawberries.
- Serving the area for over 100 years, Lukas Nursery and Butterfly Encounter is here not only for plants to beautify your home—indoor and out—but also with a cool butterfly and bird conservatory that provides a chance to feed butterflies from your fingertips.
2. Special Events in Oviedo, FL
Find plenty of community events to support local artisans, small business owners, and chefs in Oviedo.
- The Farmers Market is held the first Saturday of every month. Find homemade baked goods, fresh fruits and veggies, and a variety of local artisans' goods.
- Grab a lawn chair or blanket and come out for the monthly family-friendly Movie in the Park or try a new cuisine at Food Truck Thursday.
- Taste of Oviedo, held for 20 years and counting, and Great Day in the Country, are both fun events with arts and craft vendors, tasty food options, and local musical acts.
There are also a number of community holiday-themed events to partake in: Festival of Fright, Howl-O-Ween, winter fest, and the holiday parade.
3. Oviedo Shopping
Oviedo Mall offers a multi-screen movie theatre, The Eat, a Play District with escape rooms, boutique bowling, axe throwing, arcade games, and food and drink options in addition to its many shops.
Check out The Artistic Hand Gallery and Studio for unique local art and classes.
The Oviedo Antique Mall is another great place to find both antique and vintage pieces.
4. Experience a Taste of Oviedo
- Sushi Pop, rated as the #1 of 140 restaurants in Oviedo on TripAdvisor, has awesome food with an even cooler vibe.
- The Townhouse Restaurant is known for having the best biscuits and gravy!
- Rock & Brews is a fun spot to listen to music and sample their impressive drink menu.
- Oviedo Brewing Company, located in the Oviedo Mall, offers outstanding beer and excellent food pairings in a family-friendly atmosphere.
There are also options for Greek, Vietnamese, Japanese, Korean, Mexican, and Italian, so try it all in Oviedo!
5. Oviedo’s School System
Families raising school-aged kids appreciate Seminole County school district. There are 5 elementary, 2 middle, and 2 public high schools in Oviedo, most of which rank 7 or 8 out of 10 on GreatSchools, as well as a number of magnet and charter schools options.
With above average test scores, both high schools have a 90% graduation rate with very high advanced placement class enrollment. University of Central Florida and Seminole State College are prime choices for higher education.
Even if you don’t have school-aged kids, choosing a home in Oviedo is still a great choice, as it’s an important factor for resale ability.
Oviedo Is Ready to Welcome You Home
Making the move to Oviedo will be an easy choice. Fun activities, great connectivity to the big city, a stellar school system, and a solid real estate market are just a few reasons Oviedo should be near the top of your list.
We're here to help you find the perfect home in Oviedo!
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