Davenport

Davenport is a small town in Polk County, Florida.  It is located only 10 miles from Walt Disney World and is less than 30 miles to the West of Orlando.  The population in July 2008 was 2,560 residents according of the U.S Census Bureau and Davenport is part of the Winter Haven Metropolitan Statistical Area.  The Greater Davenport Area continues to grow because of the proximity to so many great attractions.

Davenport is a very popular and fast growing area because it is located so close to the big attractions near Orlando and is between two international airports, Tampa and Orlando.  The statistics for Davenport only refer to the tiny city itself but the Greater Davenport Area in the northeast has experienced major growth recently.  Many homes are being built in large high value developments.  This increase in revenue for the city has helped to keep city services operating smoothly and has not forced drastic cutbacks on services provided to residents. 

The city is small but they still have many great events throughout the year for the residents.  The events are:

• Annual Labor Day 8k race – Labor Day
• Annual Halloween Event – October 31^st
• Davenport Quilt Show – Second weekend of November
• Live Nativity – Beginning of December

The most unique event throughout the year is the Festival of Quilts, Tea and Vintage Vehicles in November.  This is held in the historic district of downtown and draws 1500 people.  The collection of handmade quilts and rare vehicles is impressive.  If you are looking for an event you will find nowhere else this is it. 

Davenport is also a great place to live if you are looking to go to college.  There are many choices all around the area and everyone is an easy commute.  The choices are:

• Polk Community College
• Webber College
• Travis Technical Center
• Florida Southern
• Warner Southern College
• Valencia Community College
• Rollins College
• University of Central Florida
• University of Phoenix – Orlando Campus
• Saint Leo University

The main attraction on the weekends for those not going to a theme park is Lake Davenport.  Lake Davenport is a great spot for fishing and seeing nature.  The placid water and great biodiversity make visiting this lake a top choice for residents though out the year.  Lots can be done here out on the water or just walking on nature trails on the shoreline can give you great memories

Davenport is a small city but the Greater Davenport Area has grown into a thriving place that is centrally located in the state next to major roads and between two international airports.  The growth here has led to great communities being built just minutes away from Disney and the other attractions near Orlando.  If you are looking for an area that doesn’t have the congestion and size of Orlando then the small town feel of quaint Davenport may be for you.