View Full Version : First visit to The Villages
Trish Crocker
06-25-2011, 09:20 PM
My husband and I are coming down July 4th for 5 days....we will either decide to move there or get it out of my system!! Does anyone have any pointers as to what we should do for the few days that we are there. My husband does golf (and I'm planning to learn) but we won't be bringing any clubs with us. Thanks and looking forward to getting there!!!
cherylncliff
06-25-2011, 09:45 PM
First- let me welcome you to TOTV and to TV. I would definitely encourage you to take the trolley ride. It is free and gives you a quick, big picture view of the villages. I would also encourage you to purchase the $5 map at the visitor center. It will help you get where you are going and when you are lost and trying to figure out how to get there, it serves as a lure to bring friendly villagers to your aid:laugh: I would also encourage you to visit the town squares in the evening and try to get to Katie Bells in Spanish Springs for dinner. Do you have a favorite activity? Ask your realtor to help you attend. If you ilke dancing, there are several great classes or opportunities, ditto line dancing. Take some time to visit one of the many pools and just relax. Go to open houses to get an idea of different house choices and definitely take your golf cart out and just drive around.
Most of all, enjoy your visit.
I'm sure that other more sage members will give you lots of additional advice.
Trish Crocker
06-25-2011, 10:06 PM
Cheryl, thank you soo much for the info and i will definitely take your advice.
SALYBOW
06-25-2011, 10:16 PM
*If you do not bring clubs, they can be rented at some of the country Clubs for $7.50 for 9 holes.
*Golfing at the CCS is only $6.00 after 6:00 PM. It has cooled down by then also.
* We have many good restaurants and clubs around the Villages.
*Don't forget swimming.
*Be sure to either rent a cart or see that it is included in the rental of the unit you are in so you can get the experience of crusing around the town.
:gc:
There is not a time that I go out socially that I do not Thank God for the chance to live here. :pepper2:
teachnmo
06-25-2011, 10:18 PM
I'm betting that you are not going to get it out of your system. It's a very great place to be!
Schaumburger
06-25-2011, 11:08 PM
Trish,
I'm seconding all of the above recommendations. FYI: the trolley tour leaves from the TV sales center in Lake Sumter Landing and takes about 45 minutes. I took it last year when I was in TV for the first time. I will be in TV from July 6-14, so we may see each other lost on one of the golf cart trails. :wave:
Bryan
06-26-2011, 04:59 AM
You will be here on a Thursday so be sure to get our newspaper, The Villages Daily Sun, on that date. Each Thursday there is a weekly supplement called the Rec Center News. It lists all activities at each rec center for the coming week, pool hours, etc. In addition, it lists all the clubs and activities in TV. Keep that supplement and take it home to look over at your leisure. It can be invaluable in deciding if your favorite activities are avaialble in TV (they are), where and when.
graciegirl
06-26-2011, 05:08 AM
I'm betting that you are not going to get it out of your system. It's a very great place to be!
That is very true. The University of Southern Florida is going to conduct a study to see what genetic changes happen to individuals once they enter the perimeters of this place and take a long swig of some kool drink.
It has previously not been observed in such a large group of people, but just sitting down and having something nice to drink in one of the squares and watching people dance and talk and smile, and listening to the music, and watching them arrive and leave in their fancy golf carts, and then chatting with them, and asking them if they like to live in The Villages, then soon those people have a glazed look in their eyes and when they leave they have recurring thoughts of this place and it's inhabitants.
I don't like Florida, but it happened to me. Very curious indeed.
Welcome to you. I know you will love it here. I hope you enjoy every second of the rest of your time here with us in this Paradise!
You just won't believe it. It is amazing.
Kindest wishes,
Gracie.
l2ridehd
06-26-2011, 05:25 AM
The Villages is the only place I know, where the reality of a visit far exceeds the marketing hype you get before coming here.
birdawg
06-26-2011, 05:38 AM
Everything your hearing is true. It will be our third trip June 30th can't get it out of our system just have to sell the home in jersey
I think the free map that you get at the sales center is most helpful to a visitor who is not looking for specific open houses. I find mapquest to be more helpful when looking for specific addresses in The Villages because the map is fine print and hard to read. The free map gives you the major arteries and landmarks.
graciegirl
06-26-2011, 06:21 AM
The Villages is the only place I know, where the reality of a visit far exceeds the marketing hype you get before coming here.
Well said.
That is the best way to describe it that I have ever heard and I completely and totally agree!
2BNTV
06-26-2011, 08:14 AM
The Villages is the only place I know, where the reality of a visit far exceeds the marketing hype you get before coming here.
WOW!!! What a great post. Short and to the point.
I usually say there aren't enough words to describe TV, you just have to see it. My feeling is you won't get it out of your system but it will be more ingrained in your wanting to move to TV. You might fall in love with TV. I know I did.
LI SNOWBIRD
06-26-2011, 09:04 AM
The Villages is the only place I know, where the reality of a visit far exceeds the marketing hype you get before coming here.
I agree!!
2BNTV
06-26-2011, 09:16 AM
My husband and I are coming down July 4th for 5 days....we will either decide to move there or get it out of my system!! Does anyone have any pointers as to what we should do for the few days that we are there. My husband does golf (and I'm planning to learn) but we won't be bringing any clubs with us. Thanks and looking forward to getting there!!!
Posted by Indy-guy
I have posted this before sometime ago and perhaps posting it again with some updates will help you out.
1. The best nights at Lake Sumter Landing are Tuesday and Thursday. These are the nights of the best entertainment and the Vendors are there those nights that is why they have the best entertainment.
2. The best nights at Spanish Springs are Monday and Wednesday. These are the nights of the best entertainment and the Vendors are there those nights that is why they have the best entertainment.
3. To me the best night at Katie Belles is Monday night. You need to make reservations so check with your host to find out how to do this. By far one of the best shows in The Villages and is a must. Also there is a good show on Wednesday night as well. Won't hurt to catch both.
4. If you have not been here before first thing is take a trolley ride to get a feel for the place. Then get a good map that shows the golf cart paths. Use your golf cart that is what this place is all about.
5. As you use your golf cart remember do not cross or drive on a 4 lane road it is against the law and you could get a ticket. If you find yourself in this situation stop and go back where you came from and look at all of the other carts and see where they are going and adjust you route. When in doubt pull out a map and look lost within 30 seconds you will be offered help.
6. If you are playing golf have your host schedule you on Palmer and be sure you play Riley Grove. When you see the videos you can say I was right there.
7. See what shows are at the Savannah Center and ask your host to make reservations for you if it is not sold out The Villages may comp you great seats. You have to ask!
8. Urban Flats has entertainment & dancing inside most nights. RJ Gators has great Karaoke (these people are good) & dancing on Wednesday and Saturday nights starting around 8:30 however you need to get there early to get a good seat. The Light House has entertainment many nights a week.
9. If you want to play golf other than the freebees that The villages offer simply call the courses after 6:45 AM on the day of play and ask about open tee times. They will set you up and you will pay the rate of a Villages Resident. Drop by any Pro Shop and they can supply you with phone numbers or check out The Villages Phone Book. Same for the Executive courses but don't waste your voucher on an Executive Course if you play both use the voucher on the Championship Course and pay for the Executive course.
10. Happy Hours at Cane Garden and Arnold Palmer start at 3:00 PM and are great prices. Cane Garden happy hour is done at 5:00 PM I think Palmer runs a little later but someone else may help us out there. Mallory Hill also has a good happy hour.
Russ_Boston
06-26-2011, 09:27 AM
Since you are only there for 2 days it will be tough to do some of the great activities mentioned by others.
But you can 'look'. What I mean is look around at the centers and see the number of people enjoying things like Pickleball, swimming laps, playing water volleyball, walking around their block for exercise, biking, golfing, line dancing in the square, etc. etc. Best way to do this is to rent a golf cart and just drive.
You'll get a feel for the place and see if it is somewhere you'd enjoying being a part of.
Good luck!
JimPete
06-26-2011, 09:48 AM
Do like we did. Get lost. It's a wonderful place to just to roam around.
When you do need to get somewhere (open house, golf, dining, etc.) the $5 dollar map was the best resource aside from other villagers. We really enjoyed the free entertainment at the town squares. :)
Bill-n-Brillo
06-26-2011, 10:02 AM
Since you are only there for 2 days it will be tough to do some of the great activities mentioned by others.
But you can 'look'. What I mean is look around at the centers and see the number of people enjoying things like Pickleball, swimming laps, playing water volleyball, walking around their block for exercise, biking, golfing, line dancing in the square, etc. etc. Best way to do this is to rent a golf cart and just drive.
You'll get a feel for the place and see if it is somewhere you'd enjoying being a part of.
Good luck!
Ditto........given that you've only got 2 days. And take the trolley ride!
Bill :)
uujudy
06-26-2011, 12:45 PM
Be sure to visit some of the Regional Recreation Centers (Laurel Manor, Lake Miona, and Colony Cottage for example) and enjoy their unique decor.
Trish Crocker
06-26-2011, 12:53 PM
Thank you to everyone that took the time to respond.. Actually, we will be there for 5 days so hopefully we will get to do all (or most) of the things you have suggested. I am getting so excited! We have both lived in Michigan our entire lives...in the Metro Detroit area. Our plans are to sell our house (right now, he's under the kitchen sink replacing the faucet while his helpful wife is playing on the computer!)..once the house sells, we will rent an apartment for a while until his business gets sold...then, hopefully...TV! Again, thank you.
Trish
graciegirl
06-26-2011, 01:24 PM
Thank you to everyone that took the time to respond.. Actually, we will be there for 5 days so hopefully we will get to do all (or most) of the things you have suggested. I am getting so excited! We have both lived in Michigan our entire lives...in the Metro Detroit area. Our plans are to sell our house (right now, he's under the kitchen sink replacing the faucet while his helpful wife is playing on the computer!)..once the house sells, we will rent an apartment for a while until his business gets sold...then, hopefully...TV! Again, thank you.
Trish
A journey of a thousand miles to TV begins with the first faucet replacement.
We are slogging there ourselves. Good Luck!!
Trish Crocker
06-26-2011, 01:30 PM
Too funny....thinking you're probably the first I want to meet!
Tbugs
06-26-2011, 01:41 PM
Trish,
I realize you will only be in The Villages for 5 days but just to let you know of things to do when you are here longer.
The Villages is only a 90 minute drive to the Atlantic Ocean and a 90 minute drive to the Gulf side. My wife and I and another couple have "beach days" a couple times a month for day trips to the beach. Just great.
We also go kayaking with Discovery Kayak Tours about one time a month. We are going on the spring fed Rainbow River in July.
Lots of great things to see and do. Your first priority is to find a perfect house. May I suggest looking at resales as well as new? Tell your Villages agent there are some Lantana models on Talley Ridge Drive you would like to see. Trust me, they are very nice - and have only about a $2500 bond compared to around $25,000 for a new house. These are for sale by Villages properties so a Villages agent can show them. If a house is listed with MLS, the Villages agent cannot show them and vice versa.
Resales are usually a good deal because you can negotiate price with the seller and you cannot do that on a new house. Bond is much lower. No construction going on around you. Mature landscaping. You may find upgrades already in place instead of buying them later.
Just a couple more things to think about. Anyhow, you will love it no matter where you buy in The Villages.
Indy-Guy
06-26-2011, 02:00 PM
Below are some things that I have posted before when this subject has come up.
1. The best nights at Lake Sumter Landing are Tuesday and Thursday. These are the nights of the best entertainment and the Vendors are there those nights that is why they have the best entertainment.
2. The best nights at Spanish Springs are Monday and Wednesday. These are the nights of the best entertainment and the Vendors are there those nights that is why they have the best entertainment.
3. To me the best night at Katie Belles is Monday night. You need to make reservations so check with your host to find out how to do this. By far one of the best shows in The Villages and is a must. Also there is a good show on Wednesday night as well. Won't hurt to catch both.
4. If you have not been here before first thing is take a trolley ride to get a feel for the place. Then get a good map that shows the golf cart paths. Use your golf cart that is what this place is all about.
5. As you use your golf cart remember do not cross or drive on a 4 lane road it is against the law and you could get a ticket not to mention the danger. If you find yourself in this situation stop and go back where you came from and look at all of the other carts and see where they are going and adjust you route. When in doubt pull out a map and look lost within 30 seconds you will be offered help. The Villages sales offices have a great free map for the asking. Just ask for the General Area Map. It shows the Golf Cart Transportation Trails and all of the main roads as well as retail store locations.
6. If you are playing golf have your host schedule you on Palmer and be sure you play Riley Grove. When you see the videos you can say I was right there.
7. See what shows are at the Savannah Center and ask your host to make reservations for you if it is not sold out The Villages may comp you great seats. You have to ask!
8. Urban Flats has entertainment & dancing inside most nights. RJ Gators has great Karaoke & dancing on Wednesday and Saturday nights starting around 8:30 however you need to get there early to get a good seat. The Light House has entertainment many nights a week.
9. If you want to play golf other than the freebees that The villages offer simply call the courses after 6:45 AM on the day of play and ask about open tee times. They will set you up and you will pay the rate of a Villages Resident. Drop by any Pro Shop and they can supply you with phone numbers or check out The Villages Phone Book. Same for the Executive courses but don't waste your voucher on an Executive Course if you play both use the voucher on the Championship Course and pay for the Executive course.
10. Happy Hours at Cane Garden and Arnold Palmer start at 3:00 PM and are great prices. Cane Garden happy hour is done at 5:00 PM I think Palmer runs a little later but someone else may help us out there. Mallory Hill also has a good happy hour that runs till 6:00PM. Mallory has good Pizza. The Country Clubs are great to eat and drink at and are not expensive.
11. Be sure and look for the open houses in the daily paper and get in your golf cart and go out and see them. Be sure and notice the times as some are open in the AM then some in the PM.
Hope this helps and enjoy your visit.
somen
06-26-2011, 05:15 PM
Hello Everyone, My husband and I will also be down visting the week of July 9th. We will be at our timeshare in Orlando so we will be visiting on day trips. Are there any days during that time where special activities are planned? We will definatly do the trolley tour and the town squares. Any other imput would be great this will be our first time. Thanks, Cathy
Pturner
06-26-2011, 06:12 PM
The Villages is the only place I know, where the reality of a visit far exceeds the marketing hype you get before coming here.
So true!
Trish and Somen, Welcome! Here are my 3 cents:
Do or see as much as you can of what has been suggested. The Kool refreshing drink served here comes in more flavors than you can sample! ;)
Bring your checkbook, :$:because...
The chances of you getting it out of your system are on par with your grandma gettin' run over by a reindeer. :crap2:
Have a great trip.
P
p.s., buy a house in Springdale. We'll be neighbors.
:beer3:
ladydoc
06-26-2011, 06:21 PM
Pturner is right. Bring a checkbook. When we went, I was SHOCKED that hubby would even consider living in such a place. He likes the open land we have here in NM and grumbled about how close the houses are to each other. Well, we got there, drove around in the golf cart a bit, met our sales agent, looked at about 8 houses and then she took us to a new CourtYard Villa neighborhood (we have dogs who rule our lives and really had to have a fence). We were there 5 mintues when hubby said, Honey, good thing you brought a check book. I was again SHOCKED. I asked ARE YOU SURE? He said yes because it was my turn to pick where we live and where I would be happier. DONE deal in less then 48 hours. And my story is not that unusual. You will love it here, it is beautiful, there is so much to do, most of the people we met were wonderful and helpful and there are so many restaurants and stores (where we are if you can not buy it at walmart, you don't get it).
Bill-n-Brillo
06-26-2011, 06:30 PM
Yes, always have your checkbook at the ready, especially during those 'Oh-we're-just-looking-around' visits. Kinda like the old American Express slogan: "Don't leave home without it!!!"
Bill :)
2BNTV
06-26-2011, 06:35 PM
Pturner is right. Bring a checkbook. When we went, I was SHOCKED that hubby would even consider living in such a place. He likes the open land we have here in NM and grumbled about how close the houses are to each other. Well, we got there, drove around in the golf cart a bit, met our sales agent, looked at about 8 houses and then she took us to a new CourtYard Villa neighborhood (we have dogs who rule our lives and really had to have a fence). We were there 5 mintues when hubby said, Honey, good thing you brought a check book. I was again SHOCKED. I asked ARE YOU SURE? He said yes because it was my turn to pick where we live and where I would be happier. DONE deal in less then 48 hours. And my story is not that unusual. You will love it here, it is beautiful, there is so much to do, most of the people we met were wonderful and helpful and there are so many restaurants and stores (where we are if you can not buy it at walmart, you don't get it).
Ladydoc:
Great post. It made my eyes mist on how much I wanted this to happen to me.
Trish:
Personally I would definitely take the trolley ride and go to Katie Belle's on Monday to see Donna Moore. I am biased as I love her singing voice. Reservations may be needed.
Pick what you and hubs like to do and enjoy your time there as time will fly by.
Schaumburger
06-26-2011, 08:00 PM
Thank you to everyone that took the time to respond.. Actually, we will be there for 5 days so hopefully we will get to do all (or most) of the things you have suggested. I am getting so excited! We have both lived in Michigan our entire lives...in the Metro Detroit area. Our plans are to sell our house (right now, he's under the kitchen sink replacing the faucet while his helpful wife is playing on the computer!)..once the house sells, we will rent an apartment for a while until his business gets sold...then, hopefully...TV! Again, thank you.
Trish
Bring good sunscreen if you will be outside a lot. I believe the sun in Florida is more powerful than in Michigan. A golf cap or sun visor is also a good idea. I will have all 3 with me next month. Enjoy, enjoy!
champion6
06-26-2011, 09:31 PM
You will be here on a Thursday so be sure to get our newspaper, The Villages Daily Sun, on that date. Each Thursday there is a weekly supplement called the Rec Center News. It lists all activities at each rec center for the coming week, pool hours, etc. In addition, it lists all the clubs and activities in TV. Keep that supplement and take it home to look over at your leisure. It can be invaluable in deciding if your favorite activities are available in TV (they are), where and when.And you can read the current edition of the Recreation News before your arrive by using this link: www.thevillagesdailysun.com/app/files/recnews.pdf
vBulletin® v3.8.11, Copyright ©2000-2025, vBulletin Solutions Inc.