Welcome to Horizon West, where family gatherings take on a whole new level of excitement. As the kids break from school routines and visiting relatives descend on our community, it’s the perfect time to discover (or perhaps rediscover) what makes Horizon West a family-friendly haven.

Here are our top recommendations for hosting a week of fun and adventure with your guests:

1. Dream Finders Homes Great Turkey Trot 5K (Sun. Nov. 19)

Start a new Thanksgiving tradition with your family at the Dream Finders Homes Great Turkey Trot 5K. On Sunday, November 19, 2023, the fun begins at the picturesque Southern Hills Farm, located at 16651 Schofield Road. The race day schedule is action-packed, with the 5K starting at 8:00 am, awards at 9:00 am, and the Kids Race taking off at 9:30 am.

Participating in the Great Turkey Trot 5K comes with some fantastic perks. All 5K participants receive a chip-timed race experience, an exclusive race shirt, a finisher medal, and the mouthwatering delight of a world-famous apple cider donut from Southern Hill Farms. The little ones can join in on the fun with a kids race, where they’ll receive a race medal and bib. Distances vary depending on your child’s age and ability level.

For more information and to register for the event, click here!

2. The Venardos Circus Returns to Hamlin (Runs Wed. Nov. 22-Fri. Dec. 17)

Step under the big top and prepare to be dazzled by The Venardos Circus, a traveling Broadway-style extravaganza. The circus promises a night of enchantment, featuring acrobatics, aerial stunts, and mesmerizing performances. It’s a unique and animal-friendly circus experience that’s suitable for all ages. Create memories with your family at this unforgettable event.

Shows run from November 22 through December 17, under the big white tent in the open field near Walmart, at 4830 Hamlin Groves Trail.

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3. Horizon West Regional Park

Discover the enchanting natural beauty of Florida at Horizon West Regional Park. The park offers miles of inviting hiking and equestrian trails that are open from sunrise to sunset. Located on Hamlin Groves Trail at Mann Road, this sprawling 215.25-acre park provides a tranquil escape from the daily grind.

As you explore, keep an eye out for gopher tortoise burrows and other local wildlife. Please note that dirt bikes and ATVs are not allowed within the park, ensuring a peaceful and serene environment. So, lace up your hiking boots, immerse yourself in the serenity of these scenic trails, and experience the pure essence of Florida’s wilderness. Remember to follow all signs, as the park is still under construction. For more information, visit the Orange County Parks website.

4. Pinspiration

Pinspiration of South Orlando is a DIY creative studio space where everyone (young and old) is an artist! Whether your kids want to bring their own ideas to life or choose from a project menu, Pinspiration provides the tools, materials, and an inspiring place to craft. For even more fun, check out the popular Splatter Room! Guests can suit up in protective gear and fling paint at a canvas to create a unique masterpiece. Reservations are recommended but not required.

Find Pinspiration at 14416 Shoreside Way Unit #100. For more details, visit their website!

5. Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas

Treat your family to a cinematic experience at Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas. This world-class cinema offers more than just a movie. With stylish lounge-style lobbies, spacious auditoriums featuring fully reclining leather seats, cutting-edge sound and projection technology, and in-theater waiter service, it’s a movie night like no other. You can also enjoy a gourmet menu with chef-driven selections, including gluten and vegan-friendly options, as well as a full-service bar serving signature cocktails, imported and craft beers, and hand-selected wines.

For a special treat, don’t miss out on half-price tickets on Tuesdays. You can find Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas at 14111 Shoreside Way. Check out their offerings on their website!

6. Urban Air

Urban Air is the ultimate indoor adventure park, perfect for family fun. It’s not just a trampoline park; it’s an all-in-one fun destination. With a wide selection of attractions, including Go-Karts, a zip-line-like experience, virtual reality and lots more, kids of all ages can explore thrilling adventures, challenge their bodies and minds, and simply have a blast.

Urban Air believes in the importance of parents and children being able to play together, so they offer “Parents Tickets” at a substantial 50% discount when a regular ticket is purchased for a child. A special 5 & Under ticket is also available at a reduced price.

For a quicker start to the fun, consider buying your tickets online. Urban Air is located at 5758 Hamlin Groves Trail. Visit their website for more information.

7. Grab an Afternoon Snack at a Local Restaurant

In our community, we’re fortunate to have a delightful array of small, locally-owned establishments that add a unique charm to our daily lives. Consider spending an afternoon at The French Café, nestled at 16412 New Independence Pkwy, Suite #140. You can also savor the inviting atmosphere of Filigree Coffee, conveniently located inside Home State Brewing at 6016 New Independence Pkwy, Unit #100, or explore the delectable offerings at Paris Baguette, found at 15996 New Independence Pkwy, Suite #110.

For those seeking a quick and sweet indulgence, Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream located at 14387 Bridgewater Crossings Blvd Suite #110, offers a delightful selection of ice cream flavors, perfect for those on the move. Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for freshly baked cookies, look no further than Crumbl Cookies, a go-to spot for both classic and unique cookies situated at 16027 New Independence Pkwy.

But if you’re in the mood for a truly delightful indulgence, make your way to White Rabbit Dessert Experience. Located in Flamingo Crossings, this charming establishment offers a sit-down dessert experience like no other. Here, you can relish made-to-order waffles, delicate crepes, indulgent sundaes, mouthwatering cakes, gooey brownies, and homemade ice cream, all carefully crafted to create a sweet escape worth savoring.

With these exciting events and activities, your family is sure to have a memorable and fun-filled Thanksgiving break. From circus spectacles to creative DIY projects, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during this special time of the year. Get ready to make the most of the holiday season with these fantastic options!

About the Author

Jen is an Orlando area foodie, blogger and freelance writer based in Horizon West.
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