APOPKA, FLORIDA

Apopka, Florida is a small town located in Orange County, about 20 miles northwest of Orlando. It is situated on US Highway 441 and has a population of approximately 53,000 people.

Apopka City Hall
Ebyabe

The history of Apopka dates back to the earliest Native American inhabitants of the region, the Timicua, who called the area Ahapopka, meaning "potato eating place."

The region was rich in natural resources, and the Timucua thrived on fishing, hunting, and gathering.  After the Spanish ownership of Florida from the 1500s for almost 300 years, the Timicua disappeared.

In the mid-19th century, European settlers began arriving. By the 1850s, the area had become home to several pioneers, including Dr. John Henry Galloway, a physician and early community leader.

Settlers initially relied on agriculture, with citrus groves and vegetable farming dominating the local economy.

The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s transformed Apopka into a hub for commerce and trade.

Seaboard Railroad Depot
Mike Miller

In 1882, the town was officially incorporated, and by the turn of the century, it had become a popular winter resort destination for wealthy tourists from the North.

The town suffered a devastating setback in 1911 when a fire destroyed much of its downtown area, but it was quickly rebuilt and continued to prosper throughout the early 20th century.

Episcopal Church
Mike Miller

In 1922 Apopka was incorporated as a city, an upgrade from the town designation, and earned the nickname "The Indoor Foliage Capital of the World" due to its thriving greenhouse industry.  The nickname still sticks today.

During the 1960s and 1970s, Apopka experienced a significant population boom, as many people moved to the area for its warm climate and job opportunities in the growing tourism and service industries.

The growth of Apopka's suburbs continues today.

John H. Land

Apopka had one of the longest-serving mayors in the United States. John H. Land was first elected mayor in 1949 and served for over 61 years (with one 3 year gap).  He was the longest-serving mayor in Florida and longest-serving full-time mayor in the United States through 2014.

Today, Apopka remains a vibrant and diverse community, with a thriving economy and a rich cultural heritage.

Tam Bao Tu Buddhist Temple
Mike Miller

While it may not be a major shopping destination, the city offers a mix of unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. Local antique shops and cozy diners make it a pleasant place to explore.

Apopka is also home to many major retail chains like Walmart and Lowe's.

Mitchell Tibbets House
Ebyabe

The town's largest employer is the Florida Hospital Apopka, which provides healthcare services to the surrounding area. Other important industries in Apopka include agriculture, manufacturing, and technology.

Waite Davis House
Ebyabe

The main drag through Apopka is US-441.  It is a busy thoroughfare lined with fast food joints, restaurants, and myriad other businesses. 

An exception is the historic lodge at the highway's entrance to Apopka from the east.

The real charm of the town lives a block or two on either side of this highway.

The Lodge
Ebyabe

Residential neighborhoods in Apopka range from historic homes in the downtown area to newer homes in the new developments in the sprawling suburbs.

Wekiwa Springs State Park - 1800 Wekiwa Cir, Apopka, FL 32712 - This beautiful park offers opportunities for swimming, hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor activities in a natural Florida setting.

Museum of the Apopkans - 122 E 5th St, Apopka, FL 32703 - Learn about the history and culture of Apopka through exhibits and artifacts at this local museum.

West Orange Trail - 501 Crown Point Cross Rd, Winter Garden, FL 34787 - This 22-mile trail offers a scenic route for biking, walking, or jogging through Apopka and surrounding areas.

Errol Estate Golf and Country Club - 1355 Errol Pkwy, Apopka, FL 32712 - Play a round of golf on this picturesque course with rolling hills and scenic lakes.

Apopka Farmers Market - 121 N Park Ave, Apopka, FL 32703 - Shop for locally grown produce, handmade crafts, and other goods at this weekly outdoor market.

Rock Springs Run State Reserve - 30601 CR 433, Sorrento, FL 32776 - Explore this nature reserve with hiking trails, birdwatching, and tubing down crystal-clear waters.

Kelly Park/Rock Springs - 400 E Kelly Park Rd, Apopka, FL 32712 - Take a refreshing swim in the cool, spring-fed waters of Rock Springs at this popular local park.

Apopka Amphitheater - 3710 Jason Dwelley Pkwy, Apopka, FL 32712 - Catch a concert or other performance at this outdoor venue with a seating capacity of 5,000.

Wekiva Island - 1014 Miami Springs Dr, Longwood, FL 32779 - Relax and unwind with activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and live music at this nearby destination on the Wekiva River.

RECOMMENDED APOPKA RESTAURANT
THE BACK ROOM STEAKHOUSE

1418 Rock Springs Road
Apopka, Florida 32712
Tel: 407-880-7832

The Back Room Steakhouse is in a shopping center next to a Beef O'Brady restaurant. 

This restaurant is separate from the Beef and is definitely in the fine dining category.  They even request you wear a collared shirt.

When you enter the restaurant you can see the entire dining room and bar all at once.  It is a pleasant environment with the reception desk on the right as soon as you come in.

Read More About The Back Room Steakhouse