Getting around

[tbrock555]

Can you really get around the entire villages using just a golf cart? What is walking like, my wife actually likes to walk to the supermarkets, is that doable here(she walks a lot).Thinking of coming this year to check place out, can you actually go from hotels there to Villages area with just a golf cart? Are there certain areas in the Villages more active(clubs, activities, etc.) than others? Thanks.

[vintageogauge]

I would suggest renting for a month to check things out as nothing anyone tells you will be a substitute for seeing for yourself. It's too big to see in just a week.

[baustgen]

There are a couple of hotels internal to The Villages. I suggest you contact The Villages and schedule a Life Style Visit. You will get a much better experience. No sales pressure. The place sells itself.

[Bill14564]

You can get to anything in The Villages north of 44 via golf cart including supermarkets, restaurants, country clubs, county govt. offices, and medical centers. Areas south of 44 are scheduled to be connected real soon now. We have found that we can get to everything we need via a golf cart.

Be aware that there are some businesses on the other side of the road from The Villages that are not accessible via a golf cart; they look close but you can't get there.

There are sidewalks or multi-modal paths (MMP) that can be used to walk everywhere in The Villages. The only issue might be distance - The Villages is something like 12 miles north to south.

There is at least one hotel that is golf cart accessible; there might be more but we haven't looked into that.

[John_W]

The most central location in the established Villages is LSL (Lake Sumter Landing) and the Waterfront Hotel is two blocks away. You can walk to bars, restaurants, movie theaters, Barnes & Nobles, a golf cart store, the square and see live bands, you can do alot even without a golf cart. Stay there for a few days.

The Waterfront Inn The Villages, Florida, US - Reservations.com (https://www.reservations.com/hotel/the-waterfront-inn?rmcid=tophotels&utm_source=googleads&gclid=Cj0KCQiAtqL-BRC0ARIsAF4K3WFWcGjUQ56SBI_unO3yZ3Oc7QVR8dqA62Z47J Jsz5kGFoZHUAAiZyUaAm-EEALw_wcB)


https://i.travelapi.com/hotels/2000000/1800000/1790600/1790521/8df4df6f_z.jpg

[Stu from NYC]

You do need to rent a house for a good month to understand this place and what it has to offer

[mike1946]

On the East side of 27/441 (over the golf cart bridge to the historic section) there is a golf cart entry/exit which if you take the track northwards you will also be able to access places not on the villages e.g Wal Mart, Aldi, Lowes, Bealls and many others. Travel further north and you can access a 27/441 crossing then head south and you can get to the Shops of Spruce Creek which has many useful shops and restaurants e.g. a Comcast store, a very good jewellers that does any kind of watch and clock battery & and a particular favourite the Sams St. John Seafood Restaurant. It's a bit of an expedition but it can be done. Wouldn't really recommend walking anywhere - this place is enormous I think by the latest news I have it's over 75 square miles and growing. Good Luck p.s. Town Place suites in in Spanish Springs and also the Holiday Inn Express and another one nearby are all golf cart accessable to the villages.

[mrrmauu]

On the East side of 27/441 (over the golf cart bridge to the historic section) there is a golf cart entry/exit which if you take the track northwards you will also be able to access places not on the villages e.g Wal Mart, Aldi, Lowes, Bealls and many others. Travel further north and you can access a 27/441 crossing then head south and you can get to the Shops of Spruce Creek which has many useful shops and restaurants e.g. a Comcast store, a very good jewellers that does any kind of watch and clock battery & and a particular favourite the Sams St. John Seafood Restaurant. It's a bit of an expedition but it can be done. Wouldn't really recommend walking anywhere - this place is enormous I think by the latest news I have it's over 75 square miles and growing. Good Luck p.s. Town Place suites in in Spanish Springs and also the Holiday Inn Express and another one nearby are all golf cart accessable to the villages.

To get over to Spruce Creek do you cross at a light or is there a specific golf cart crossing?

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Yes, you can get to every place in The Villages and even a few spots just outside by golf cart.

Yes, you can walk to the supermarkets depending on far you live from them and how far you are willing to walk. If that's important to you, you might want to search from a home that is close to a supermarket.

All of the areas are the same as far as activities. You are not restricted to activities in your area. I run a club and pre Covid, people came from all over The Villages. In fact we have one member that make a ten mile trip by bicycle every week.

Come down, do a lifestyle visit and let your real estate agent know what your preferences are.

[Dcruz928@yahoo.com]

I believe the Waterfront Inn is no longer in business.

[La lamy]

I also concur that Lake Sumter Landing and its surroundings is the most central. It can be quite a trek to get places on your golf cart. I wish mine had cruise control! HAHA So being in the middle gives you faster golf cart access to it all. There are rec centers, pools and pickleball/tennis courts in every village, but if you stay here a while, you may find where your favorite club activities are, which may influence your residency choice.

[pcacace]

I was going to ask the same question about the 441/27 crossing.

[crash]

I also concur that Lake Sumter Landing and its surroundings is the most central. It can be quite a trek to get places on your golf cart. I wish mine had cruise control! HAHA So being in the middle gives you faster golf cart access to it all. There are rec centers, pools and pickleball/tennis courts in every village, but if you stay here a while, you may find where your favorite club activities are, which may influence your residency choice.
You do have cruise control it is set for 20 mph just hold the gas peddle all the way down. 😊

[tsmall22204]

Wow you have too many questions for just 1 post.

[Bob.Betty]

It is open

[Susan1234]

They have a life styles program that puts you up in a villa with a golf cart...I can get you a person to call if you are interested

[TandHSTAR@AOL.com]

Actually there are 4 hotels inside The Villages. All accessible by golf cart.

[Villages Kahuna]

Simple answer...The Villages is several miles longer from north to south than the City of Chicago.

[TandHSTAR@AOL.com]

To get over to Spruce Creek do you cross at a light or is there a specific golf cart crossing?

You can only cross at the traffic light by Stonecrest to get to Spruce Creek South. But be cateful you then have to work yourself through soficr creek south to their side gate to get to the stores but you cannot ride on 441 in your golf cart. Better to use your car to get to those stores. Too dangerous otherwise. You will very seldom see golf carts in that area. They come out of Spruce creek South through a side gate.

[Bay Kid]

I haven't had a car in TVs for several years. Golf cart to everything I need or want. Great way to get around except in the snow.

[donfey]

On the East side of 27/441 (over the golf cart bridge to the historic section) there is a golf cart entry/exit which if you take the track northwards you will also be able to access places not on the villages e.g Wal Mart, Aldi, Lowes, Bealls and many others. Travel further north and you can access a 27/441 crossing then head south and you can get to the Shops of Spruce Creek which has many useful shops and restaurants e.g. a Comcast store, a very good jewellers that does any kind of watch and clock battery & and a particular favourite the Sams St. John Seafood Restaurant. It's a bit of an expedition but it can be done. Wouldn't really recommend walking anywhere - this place is enormous I think by the latest news I have it's over 75 square miles and growing. Good Luck p.s. Town Place suites in in Spanish Springs and also the Holiday Inn Express and another one nearby are all golf cart accessable to the villages.

Please elaborate on crossing 27/441 in a golf car. I'm no aware of any such crossing available ti TV. Also, HOW does a Villager get "further North" of Wal-Mart? There's a gate barring travel into Stone Creek. Thanks.

[NJRICHARD]

When we purchased a home here we did NOT have a car for most of the first year. We used a golf cart for doing everything; shopping, restaurants, social activities, doctors, and of course Golf! We found we there were very few things not available to us via golf cart.

[NYCAROL]

Many good suggestions given here but the best is to rent for a month and see for yourself what The Villages has and what your needs are. One thing is Lake Sumter Landings was the middle of the Villages but with all the building south of 44 its not now. I personally like living in an established neighborhood except moving to a new one enables you to bond with neighbors who are also new. Just rent and ask questions. Every one has their own opinions.

[thecinks1@gmail.com]

Reserve your golf cart early.

[Bogie Shooter]

Please elaborate on crossing 27/441 in a golf car. I'm no aware of any such crossing available ti TV. Also, HOW does a Villager get "further North" of Wal-Mart? There's a gate barring travel into Stone Creek. Thanks.

Where is Stone Creek?

[LuvtheVillages]

I believe the Waterfront Inn is no longer in business.

FALSE
They closed briefly to update the rooms. The Waterfront Inn is open and is a very nice place to stay.

[Bogie Shooter]

I believe the Waterfront Inn is no longer in business.

:shrug:
Try the link in post #5.

[KRM0614]

Not connected real soo

[NoMo50]

Highly recommend doing the Lifestyle Visit. The Villages will put you up for a week in a villa near Brownwood (your stay can be 4-7 nights). The villas are much nicer than any hotel room, and include everything you need...linens, towels, pots & pans, dishes, even coffee. Also included is a golf car and 2 bicycles. There is no sales pressure, no meetings, no seminars. You will be assigned a sales rep, but you can choose to spend as much or as little (even none) time with him/her as you like. Use the time to venture about in the provided golf car to your heart's content. We did our Lifestyle Visit in September, when the rates were $99/night, which is a heck of a good deal. Your sales rep can even give you a guided tour of TV if the trolleys aren't running.

All in all, the Lifestyle Visit is the perfect way to experience TV, and gain an appreciation for the scope of the place. You may even find your perfect home (we did) during that visit. If not, you can actually do the Lifestyle Visit again, or come down and rent a place for a month or two and look at your leisure. Good Luck!

[NoMo50]

Highly recommend doing the Lifestyle Visit. The Villages will put you up for a week in a villa near Brownwood (your stay can be 4-7 nights). The villas are much nicer than any hotel room, and include everything you need...linens, towels, pots & pans, dishes, even coffee. Also included is a golf car and 2 bicycles. There is no sales pressure, no meetings, no seminars. You will be assigned a sales rep, but you can choose to spend as much or as little (even none) time with him/her as you like. Use the time to venture about in the provided golf car to your heart's content. We did our Lifestyle Visit in September, when the rates were $99/night, which is a heck of a good deal. Your sales rep can even give you a guided tour of TV if the trolleys aren't running.

All in all, the Lifestyle Visit is the perfect way to experience TV, and gain an appreciation for the scope of the place. You may even find your perfect home (we did) during that visit. If not, you can actually do the Lifestyle Visit again, or come down and rent a place for a month or two and look at your leisure. Good Luck!

[Bill1701]

You can get to everything north of the turnpike via golf cart, but it may take you over an hour depending on where you start and where you end. As far as walking goes, yes you can walk to stores, etc., but be aware that there are no sidewalks within most neighborhoods. Sidewalks are usually only along the main roads, such as Moyer Loop. etc. Also, crossing the major roads such as 466A and 44 can be tough because there are no crosswalks at the intersections. You can walk through the MMP tunnels but that is taking your life in your hands.

[par_geo]

Adding my 2-cents worth. This place is big...as mentioned by many. For the most part, the only "popular" shopping places you cannot access in a golf cart without also walking across a main thoroughfare are Home Depot, Sam's Club, Bed, Bath & Beyond, Kohl's, Michaels, and Best Buy. In 2013, the Village Property realtors would tell you there were 105 miles or so of cart paths, not including the golf courses....it's more, now. Oh yes, you can't get to Universal Studios or Disney World in a cart from TV...YET...I'm starting the rumor that the Morse family is planning to annex Clermont next.

[rmd2]

On the East side of 27/441 (over the golf cart bridge to the historic section) there is a golf cart entry/exit which if you take the track northwards you will also be able to access places not on the villages e.g Wal Mart, Aldi, Lowes, Bealls and many others. Travel further north and you can access a 27/441 crossing then head south and you can get to the Shops of Spruce Creek which has many useful shops and restaurants e.g. a Comcast store, a very good jewellers that does any kind of watch and clock battery & and a particular favourite the Sams St. John Seafood Restaurant. It's a bit of an expedition but it can be done. Wouldn't really recommend walking anywhere - this place is enormous I think by the latest news I have it's over 75 square miles and growing. Good Luck p.s. Town Place suites in in Spanish Springs and also the Holiday Inn Express and another one nearby are all golf cart accessable to the villages.

The Comcast store moved to 441 and Rolling Acres Rd.

[rmd2]

Simple answer...The Villages is several miles longer from north to south than the City of Chicago.

Yes it is definitely more than 12 miles from north to south in The Villages. It's more like 20 miles.

[vintageogauge]

Adding my 2-cents worth. This place is big...as mentioned by many. For the most part, the only "popular" shopping places you cannot access in a golf cart without also walking across a main thoroughfare are Home Depot, Sam's Club, Bed, Bath & Beyond, Kohl's, Michaels, and Best Buy. In 2013, the Village Property realtors would tell you there were 105 miles or so of cart paths, not including the golf courses....it's more, now. Oh yes, you can't get to Universal Studios or Disney World in a cart from TV...YET...I'm starting the rumor that the Morse family is planning to annex Clermont next.

You are only referring to those stores in the northern section of TV, there are plenty more in the central and southern sections that are not accessible by golf car and never will be such as Lowes, Publix, ABC, Aldi, several fast food establishments and lots of popular restaurants both north and south.

[JoMar]

I also agree that the best way to get a "feel" is to rent for at least a month. If you don't have the time for that then the Lifestyle Preview is your best bet. If you are looking to possibly move here there is a difference in amenities between north and south of 44, if your wife is a walker south of 44 will suit here better then north. In 2021 the north and south will be connected, and the Brownwood area will be the central (geographic) location of TV. Several years after that Brownwood will be in northern part TV and will probably be known as The Historic Side :).

[LianneMigiano]

You can get to anything in The Villages north of 44 via golf cart including supermarkets, restaurants, country clubs, county govt. offices, and medical centers. Areas south of 44 are scheduled to be connected real soon now. We have found that we can get to everything we need via a golf cart.

Be aware that there are some businesses on the other side of the road from The Villages that are not accessible via a golf cart; they look close but you can't get there.

There are sidewalks or multi-modal paths (MMP) that can be used to walk everywhere in The Villages. The only issue might be distance - The Villages is something like 12 miles north to south.

There is at least one hotel that is golf cart accessible; there might be more but we haven't looked into that.
We live in Villa Valdosta in Belle Aire village. It is almost 3 miles to the top of The Villages from our house. My daughter bought a home in Monarch Grove and it is 17 miles south of us. That makes The Villages more like 20 miles in distance north to south (and headed to the Village of Orlando???? HA HA)

[tbrock555]

Wow, thanks for all the answers, did not expect to get so many. Renting for a month does seem to be the best bet and what we are looking at after seeing how many are available. The walking is much more important to my wife than me, she says she does not want to depend on me to always drive her, she does not drive . Tried explaining to her a golf cart is different than a car, maybe when we visit she will get it. I have seen a lot of people mentioning the "Life Styles Visit", is there a particular place I need to find out about that? And yes, actually visiting a place is the surest way to find out about it but just trying to know as much as I could before that. You guys have been very helpful, thanks again.

[Bilyclub]

Yes it is definitely more than 12 miles from north to south in The Villages. It's more like 20 miles.

Chicago is 214 blocks from 138th St to Howard St. 8 blocks to a mile would make it 26.75 miles long.

[crydzanich]

I saw a golf cart, not an SSV, cross from Walmart on 441 to the McDonalds across the street.

[Silliness]

There are also several Airbnb and **** rentals in the Villages. Some will offer to get you a guest pass, and some include a golf cart.

You can try out a certain area or type of home with those rentals

[danome]

I don't find the Villages a pleasant place to walk. It is really designed for golf carts, which is does quite well. Most everything can be done with a cart. I stayed there last year for two months without a car and had no issues with access to goods and services. But for walking there is limited options. The golf courses are off limits to walkers (got to play golf) and the pathways are dominated by the carts. There are many great parks and recreation areas near the Villages with wonderful trails, especially if you like nature hikes, if you don't mind driving a little.

[Pairadocs]

I would suggest renting for a month to check things out as nothing anyone tells you will be a substitute for seeing for yourself. It's too big to see in just a week.

Absolutely agree with that advice. Renting is the ONLY way to go, nothing anyone tells you is going to be a perfect "fit" for you. We use a golf cart almost exclusively for everything, even trips to the home improvement places, etc. In "snowbird" season, the lines of automobiles on major highways (like 466A, etc.) can have the cars backed up clear to the highway (due to ONE auto at a time going through the gate, it's quite a site at times). Golf cart can be much quicker and easier to find a parking spot too (carts park TWO to a space). Others, use a car for everything, even to a grocery which are in most (not all cases) really near each village. I walk a LOT daily, the villages does lack sidewalks in many places, but people do a lot of walking here. Pick a village carefully according to YOUR daily living pattern. Like to walk to church ? To the grocery daily instead of a weekly or bi-weekly trip in the car; then choose a convenient village to what you like. We live near a LOT of restaurants and stores. Possible to walk to places like Walmart, etc. Have relatives that might as well live "out of town" their village is so far from most things. It really pays to find your comfort zone, even the golf courses you like best, and then look at homes in the area you like. Don't think there is a lot of difference in the number of activities at each rec center, but there are many activities that are only offered at ONE certain rec center which could be miles away. That is because all the activities here are dependent on the generosity of the talented people who live here and share their expertise with the residents, no one is paid, therefore, every center may not offer ballet classes, or ceramic classes, etc. While most have volunteers who teach yoga, or some kind of exercise, also most have some drawing or painting classes. Once more, RENT first, get a "feel" for what your daily life pattern will be. Not an early riser, not a tennis or pickle-ball player, then do NOT buy a home beside or behind a rec center's courts ! When looking at homes, don't concentrate on the color of the walls or the flooring, look at the trees (are they palms, oaks, "hack-berry", a lot of expense, but some don't care about expense, they just want particular trees). How close are the bushes and plants to the home ? Roots are a major problem here and can cause even more expense as maintaining all the auto-sprinkler system stations can be very expensive (figure $300 if you don't do it yourself, dig up and replace the little filter screens, etc.) and this is something people for get to check out BEFORE they buy a home. Large out of control bushes close to the house, more root problems. Many don't stop to think that in Florida things (more or less) keep growing year 'round, it makes a difference and if you also hire all this done it can really add up to expenses you were not figuring in. Lot's of things to consider.

[vintageogauge]

Absolutely agree with that advice. Renting is the ONLY way to go, nothing anyone tells you is going to be a perfect "fit" for you. We use a golf cart almost exclusively for everything, even trips to the home improvement places, etc. In "snowbird" season, the lines of automobiles on major highways (like 466A, etc.) can have the cars backed up clear to the highway (due to ONE auto at a time going through the gate, it's quite a site at times). Golf cart can be much quicker and easier to find a parking spot too (carts park TWO to a space). Others, use a car for everything, even to a grocery which are in most (not all cases) really near each village. I walk a LOT daily, the villages does lack sidewalks in many places, but people do a lot of walking here. Pick a village carefully according to YOUR daily living pattern. Like to walk to church ? To the grocery daily instead of a weekly or bi-weekly trip in the car; then choose a convenient village to what you like. We live near a LOT of restaurants and stores. Possible to walk to places like Walmart, etc. Have relatives that might as well live "out of town" their village is so far from most things. It really pays to find your comfort zone, even the golf courses you like best, and then look at homes in the area you like. Don't think there is a lot of difference in the number of activities at each rec center, but there are many activities that are only offered at ONE certain rec center which could be miles away. That is because all the activities here are dependent on the generosity of the talented people who live here and share their expertise with the residents, no one is paid, therefore, every center may not offer ballet classes, or ceramic classes, etc. While most have volunteers who teach yoga, or some kind of exercise, also most have some drawing or painting classes. Once more, RENT first, get a "feel" for what your daily life pattern will be. Not an early riser, not a tennis or pickle-ball player, then do NOT buy a home beside or behind a rec center's courts ! When looking at homes, don't concentrate on the color of the walls or the flooring, look at the trees (are they palms, oaks, "hack-berry", a lot of expense, but some don't care about expense, they just want particular trees). How close are the bushes and plants to the home ? Roots are a major problem here and can cause even more expense as maintaining all the auto-sprinkler system stations can be very expensive (figure $300 if you don't do it yourself, dig up and replace the little filter screens, etc.) and this is something people for get to check out BEFORE they buy a home. Large out of control bushes close to the house, more root problems. Many don't stop to think that in Florida things (more or less) keep growing year 'round, it makes a difference and if you also hire all this done it can really add up to expenses you were not figuring in. Lot's of things to consider.

How do you walk home from a grocery store with things like Milk, eggs, butter, ice cream, etc? This past summer was really hot and sunny.

[Dennys37Packard]

Lake Sumter is more central but being in the North near Savannah center off of El Camino gives you quick access to most every store you can think of along 27/441 and Rt 466. Restaurants Galore, too many to name, Lowe’s, Aldis, Walmart, Target, Staples, and on an on. It is all a matter of personal preference. Best of luck in your search but I too think you need to spend a good week or two at least to get your bearings and learn for yourself. Also get with a realtor that deals with MLS as they can show you far more homes than the Villages realtors will, as they tend to steer you to the new areas South mostly. Sellstate Realtors, Diane Gatelein, did wonders for us, finding a home 3/2 with oversize lot and golf cart garage, walking distance to our pool and Mulberry Plaza. She will also steer you clear of pitfalls on some homes that are less desirable

[Rlheinz19@yahoo.com]

I believe the Waterfront Inn is no longer in business.



We just stayed there in October. I hope you are wrong. It was nice.

[Rlheinz19@yahoo.com]

I agree with other posters. Sign up for a lifestyle visit. We would have but we only stayed 2 nights.

[J1ceasar]

Is unsafe at any speed. To many with poor eyesight and reflexes to. Try the Parks to walk or retail centers

[La lamy]

You do have cruise control it is set for 20 mph just hold the gas peddle all the way down. 😊

HAHA Believe it or not it makes my right leg ache to have to push it down for 30 minutes straight. Aging sucks!

[Corvettegal]

There are many stores you can walk to just north of 466. Walmart, Publix, Belles, CVS, Walgreens, many banks, Home Goods, etc. These stores are near the Charter High School and Buffalo Glen softball complex. Purchase or view any homes in the Belvedere area. A lifestyle visit is the best way to see The Villages

[Bay Kid]

HAHA Believe it or not it makes my right leg ache to have to push it down for 30 minutes straight. Aging sucks!

You need a military gas pedal. Right foot, left foot. Or just cross your legs as you enjoy your ride and the beautiful scenery in TVS!

[stadry]

many who do not drive maintain their preferred method of transport is their own 2 feet - you don't eat much ice cream in the summer months, do you !

[Amohernyikes]

Do you have any idea when the connection will happen for the golf cart for the section South of 44?

[Tom M]

Yes it is definitely more than 12 miles from north to south in The Villages. It's more like 20 miles.

But if you've got a golf cart that does 30mph it won't take that long. :)

:crap2:

[TomPerry]

Wow, thanks for all the answers, did not expect to get so many. Renting for a month does seem to be the best bet and what we are looking at after seeing how many are available. The walking is much more important to my wife than me, she says she does not want to depend on me to always drive her, she does not drive . Tried explaining to her a golf cart is different than a car, maybe when we visit she will get it. I have seen a lot of people mentioning the "Life Styles Visit", is there a particular place I need to find out about that? And yes, actually visiting a place is the surest way to find out about it but just trying to know as much as I could before that. You guys have been very helpful, thanks again.
There is a relatively new YouTube channel called “The Villages with Rusty Nelson”. He lives in PA and just started the channel to document going to The Villages and the Lifestyle Visit Program. He starts with calling the Program, setting up a visit, driving to The Villages and documenting his visit. I think it will become “the bible” for visiting The Villages with an eye towards determining if The Villages is for you. Very well done and unbiased.

[cj1040]

We have always rented a house for a month...April...with a golf cart included...6 years...now building in Chitty Chatty...we were slow to jump the fence. I want a gas golf cart..I hear newer ones are quieter...husband wants electric...we go all over TV for activities pre covid and will go north for 4 mos on summer. I dont want to worry about batteries in the g c during that time...any thoughts???

[Pairadocs]

Wow, thanks for all the answers, did not expect to get so many. Renting for a month does seem to be the best bet and what we are looking at after seeing how many are available. The walking is much more important to my wife than me, she says she does not want to depend on me to always drive her, she does not drive . Tried explaining to her a golf cart is different than a car, maybe when we visit she will get it. I have seen a lot of people mentioning the "Life Styles Visit", is there a particular place I need to find out about that? And yes, actually visiting a place is the surest way to find out about it but just trying to know as much as I could before that. You guys have been very helpful, thanks again.

There is really no way to over stress renting and staying as long as you possibly can. Getting a real "feel" for this is really important, and the good news is you can then rank your priorities (close to many golf courses, not just close to one or two, walking to Publix, church, being very near one of the many dog parks, or rather be closer to the shopping centers with the BIG MAJOR stores ? There is just so much to consider and though others will tell you (I'm sure) that all villages are pretty much the same, each really does have it's own "feel", vibes, what ever you want to term it. We also have various locations of walking/exercise trails, where you walk and then pause and there is a piece of equipment for a simple strength or endurance exercise, then you continue your walk to the next stop on the trail. Lake Sumter square area makes a nice "loop" walk, do the entire lake front boardwalk (and you can still hear the music if you walk in the evenings, and then continue on the side walk to just make a giant circle on the outer edges streets around Sumter. Also, don't know if anyone mentioned it yet, but a LOT of walking clubs/groups, including women's groups meet at nearly every rec center and are all listed on the activities web site (which you do NOT have to be a resident to access the site, so have her take a look, I think one is called Sole Mates (?) but many groups, some focus on walking for weight loss, other just on physical conditioning, but no hard and fast "rules", if walking off pounds group fits your schedule and location, no one would object if loosing weight is not your main focus, and so on....

[photo1902]

Do you have any idea when the connection will happen for the golf cart for the section South of 44?

It’s already happened.

[DAVES]

Can you really get around the entire villages using just a golf cart? What is walking like, my wife actually likes to walk to the supermarkets, is that doable here(she walks a lot).Thinking of coming this year to check place out, can you actually go from hotels there to Villages area with just a golf cart? Are there certain areas in the Villages more active(clubs, activities, etc.) than others? Thanks.


While it makes sense for you to ask this question the only proper answer is where would you be buying, where do you wish to get to and what do you compare it to?

You can find a golf cart path map. As to walking, you can look up numerical scores for walking. If, I recall the Villages is mid-line. People do walk through the tunnels. My,OPINION, you need to be nuts to do so. The lighting is not great in many of them and they are not wide enough for you to get out of the way from someone who does not see you.

As to food shopping. Because of where we are, we can easily, and regularly do our food shopping by golf cart. It is three miles to winn dixie and three miles to Publix.
We also have Aldis and Lowes about 3 1/4 miles away but they are on a main street that you cannot take a golf cart on to unless it is a street legal one-faster and requires plates and insurance. Not sure what you mean by food shopping. If she is thinking about walking to a luncheonette for a soda and or sandwich you will want to be near enough to one of the town squares that she could walk to. You will want to check and see how walker friendly the paths she will need to take are.

[DAVES]

But if you've got a golf cart that does 30mph it won't take that long. :)

:crap2:


I find it amusing. The Villages, most people are retired. No real need to worry about transit time to get to work on time. Allow time to enjoy the journey.

[vintageogauge]

If you want to live within walking distance to a grocery store you are giving up living in 90% of TV, that's a lot to give up just so you can walk to the store.

[DAVES]

I agree with other posters. Sign up for a lifestyle visit. We would have but we only stayed 2 nights.


My view, how I try to run my life. You can't always, I can make quick decisions BUT, relocating, buying or renting a home, it is an expensive and hopefully long term decision.

You can come back again if you only have/had two nights. The life style visit, it may have changed, we bought 8 years ago. We went to the life style visit three times over three years.
If, I recall, the second time you/we did not get a free movie ticket or a free steak diner. I am happy with what and where we bought.
Making the choice is difficult. In the villages, it is the lifestyle. If, you have an unusual interest, it is likely you will find a club with other, making fun, door knob collectors-there are books on door know collecting. If, there is no club, you can start one.

[JoMar]

We have always rented a house for a month...April...with a golf cart included...6 years...now building in Chitty Chatty...we were slow to jump the fence. I want a gas golf cart..I hear newer ones are quieter...husband wants electric...we go all over TV for activities pre covid and will go north for 4 mos on summer. I dont want to worry about batteries in the g c during that time...any thoughts???

We have been here six years, wife is still using her original Par Car and I am on my second Star Cart. Both Electric and we go all over The Villages. My wife uses a trickle charger when we are gone for an extended period of time, mine has one built in so we just leave it plugged in.....in six years, never had a battery issue other than replacing them every three to four years. Range is 40-55 miles and if you ride that far in any cart your butt will let you know lol.

[jklfairwin]

Golf cart is a great way to get around in the Villages and there is a good web site you can download called Villages GPS which shows you how to get where you want by cr or by golf cart.
I am an inveterate walker and I find the Villages to be the least walker-friendly place I have been. The sidewalks end well before intersections. You are then left with a choice of dashing across the car traffic or going down the intermodal path and crossing, often through a tunnel, with the golf carts. Personally, I find dodging car traffic to be safer. The only fatal traffic accident that I am aware of in the Villages was a woman walking on the intermodal who was run down by a golf cart.

[tophcfa]

Can't speak for areas I don't have a lot of knowledge about, but if you live in the greater LSL/SS area, you can easily get by without a car. There is just about nothing you can't easily get to or do in a golf cart. We went without a car for three years without a problem. Ever since we finally got a car at our Villages home, we need to literally find a reason to use it so we actually drive the thing every once and a while. A day trip to the beach or a short drive to the lighthouse seafood market on 466 are about the only time we ever use the car. I love our Villages car, a used BMW convertible that we bought through the classifieds on TOTV, but kind of wish we never got it, the garage had a lot more space with just the two golf carts.

And besides, our border collie, Sallie, absolutely loves golf cart riding. Who need Mustang Sally, when you have Golf Cart Sallie? All she wants to do is ride along Sallie, ride along Sallie Ride, Oh Ya!

[Bay Kid]

Can't speak for areas I don't have a lot of knowledge about, but if you live in the greater LSL/SS area, you can easily get by without a car. There is just about nothing you can't easily get to or do in a golf cart. We went without a car for three years without a problem. Ever since we finally got a car at our Villages home, we need to literally find a reason to use it so we actually drive the thing every once and a while. A day trip to the beach or a short drive to the lighthouse seafood market on 466 are about the only time we ever use the car. I love our Villages car, a used BMW convertible that we bought through the classifieds on TOTV, but kind of wish we never got it, the garage had a lot more space with just the two golf carts.

And besides, our border collie, Sallie, absolutely loves golf cart riding. Who need Mustang Sally, when you have Golf Cart Sallie? All she wants to do is ride along Sallie, ride along Sallie Ride, Oh Ya!

So true. When I 1st came to TVs I left my nice Mercedes outside, with a cover, so there was enough room for my 3 golf carts ( One for the parents, mine and the Streetrod). I would uncover the car once a month and take it for a ride. It just got in the way. After 2 years the car never came back.
I find TVs a good place to walk, just not on the golf cart paths. Neighborhoods and executive courses are where I do my walking.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

I was going to ask the same question about the 441/27 crossing.

There's a golf cart bridge for that purpose.

I believe that Stonecrest residents are allowed to cross at a light near the entrance of their development but I don't know about Villagers crossing there.

Just use the golf cart bridge.

[OhioBuckeye]

Can you really get around the entire villages using just a golf cart? What is walking like, my wife actually likes to walk to the supermarkets, is that doable here(she walks a lot).Thinking of coming this year to check place out, can you actually go from hotels there to Villages area with just a golf cart? Are there certain areas in the Villages more active(clubs, activities, etc.) than others? Thanks.

Your wife must be a very healthy & fit lady, good for her. As far as clubs & activities, you can’t think of any activity that TV don’t have. You’ll like it there!

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Wow, thanks for all the answers, did not expect to get so many. Renting for a month does seem to be the best bet and what we are looking at after seeing how many are available. The walking is much more important to my wife than me, she says she does not want to depend on me to always drive her, she does not drive . Tried explaining to her a golf cart is different than a car, maybe when we visit she will get it. I have seen a lot of people mentioning the "Life Styles Visit", is there a particular place I need to find out about that? And yes, actually visiting a place is the surest way to find out about it but just trying to know as much as I could before that. You guys have been very helpful, thanks again.

Everything you need to know is here.

http://https://www.thevillages.com/about-us

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Lake Sumter is more central but being in the North near Savannah center off of El Camino gives you quick access to most every store you can think of along 27/441 and Rt 466. Restaurants Galore, too many to name, Lowe’s, Aldis, Walmart, Target, Staples, and on an on. It is all a matter of personal preference. Best of luck in your search but I too think you need to spend a good week or two at least to get your bearings and learn for yourself. Also get with a realtor that deals with MLS as they can show you far more homes than the Villages realtors will, as they tend to steer you to the new areas South mostly. Sellstate Realtors, Diane Gatelein, did wonders for us, finding a home 3/2 with oversize lot and golf cart garage, walking distance to our pool and Mulberry Plaza. She will also steer you clear of pitfalls on some homes that are less desirable

The Villages just south of Spanish Springs are an easy walk to the La Plaza Grande strip mall with Publix, Winn Dixie, and several other stores and restaurants.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

How do you walk home from a grocery store with things like Milk, eggs, butter, ice cream, etc? This past summer was really hot and sunny.
A cooler on wheels or an insulated bag with an ice pack for smaller orders.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

HAHA Believe it or not it makes my right leg ache to have to push it down for 30 minutes straight. Aging sucks!

You're never going to be able to hold your accelerator pedal down for 30 minutes. You're always going to have to slow down and sometimes stop.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Yes it is definitely more than 12 miles from north to south in The Villages. It's more like 20 miles.

It's about 12.75 AS THE CROW FLIES from Rte 42 at Mulberry to Fenney. It is over 20 miles to drive it.

[John_W]

Driving in a car I found from my home off St. Charles which is near Sterling Hgts Rec Center, Southern Star Executive is 11 miles to the VA Clinic at Mulberry. By car to the Rohan Rec Center which is 44 and Morse is 9 miles, and Rohan to Fenney is 5 miles.

Here's a very detailed map, you can zoom in and actually see the lots in the entire Villages.

The Villages(R) Community Map - Explore & Find Your Way Around (https://www.thevillages.com/map/)

[Number 10 GI]

If you never leave the "bubble" you can get by with just a golf cart. If you think you will want to travel around the state you will need a car. If you need medical care not available in this area and may have to go to Orlando, Gainesville, or Ocala you will need a car. There are a number of good restaurants outside of the bubble but you will need a car to get there. Should you want to go shopping in Orlando you will need a car. I participate in sports activities outside TV but I need a car to get there. My advice, keep a car for the first year and then decide if you need it or not. For me a golf cart is useless and uncomfortable, I'm not a golfer and I like to drive in a heated and airconditioned vehicle when I travel.