The fast-growing community of Horizon West is on the verge of welcoming a new luxury health club, as Life Time, the prominent “athletic country club” brand, considers building a state-of-the-art facility in the area. This move signals the company’s intention to deepen its footprint in the Orlando metro area, especially in the rapidly developing Hamlin Town Center.

A New Premier Fitness Destination Coming to Horizon West

On July 9, a land-use application was submitted to Orange County by attorney Rebecca Wilson, representing Boyd Development Corp., the firm behind Hamlin’s growth. The plans reveal an 80,000-square-foot lifestyle fitness center featuring outdoor leisure pools, lap pools, and sports courts — all crafted to provide a comprehensive wellness experience for members.

The proposed site is located at the southwest corner of the intersection between New Independence Parkway and State Road 429, near Juneberry Way. Its prime location benefits from excellent accessibility, making it an attractive site for a high-end fitness destination.

Comparing to Winter Park’s Upcoming Destination

This project’s scale and features are comparable to the upcoming Winter Park Life Time, which is set to open in 2026 with a $48 million investment. That facility will showcase the brand’s signature upscale offerings, marking its debut in the Orlando region.

Early Stages and Future Growth

Although detailed schedules and plans are still underway, a spokesperson for Life Time Group Holdings — the company behind the brand — confirmed their ongoing interest in expanding within Central Florida. “We recognize significant potential in the Orlando market and are actively exploring opportunities to introduce our athletic country clubs to more communities,” the spokesperson stated via email.

A waitlist has already been created for the Winter Park location, indicating strong demand among local residents eager for access to their premium fitness experience.

Market Potential and Community Appeal

Local industry experts believe the addition of a high-end fitness center like Life Time could significantly enhance the community’s amenities. Bobby Palta, a retail strategist at BLVD Retail, notes that it could serve as a vital daily hub for residents in Horizon West and Windermere, especially given the current crowded facilities in the area.

He also points out that the upscale offerings of Life Time align well with the affluent demographic in the region, even considering existing gyms such as Anytime Fitness and Hotworx. Its presence could elevate the community’s fitness landscape and provide a unique social and wellness destination.

Strategic Location Brings Opportunities

Mike Battey, retail director at Franklin Street, believes the site’s proximity to State Road 429 will make the new facility accessible to not only local residents but also those from neighboring communities. The luxury brand’s unique and high-end services could emerge as a major draw, offering an alternative to other fitness options currently available.

Looking Ahead to a Thriving Community Hub

While official plans are still being developed, the potential for Life Time to establish itself in Horizon West signals further upscale development in one of Central Florida’s most dynamic growth areas. Residents and visitors may soon enjoy a luxurious new spot to focus on health, wellness, and community gathering, capturing the spirit of Horizon West’s ongoing evolution into a premier lifestyle destination.