Fun Facts
VillageLife Trivia & Fun Facts
What year did The Villages begin?
The community began in 1960 when Harold Schwartz developed Orange Blossom Gardens.
What was the original name of The Villages?
The original retirement community was called Orange Blossom Gardens.
Who expanded the community into what it is today?
Gary Morse helped expand the development by adding golf courses, recreation centers, and entertainment.
How many counties does The Villages span?
The Villages spans three counties: Sumter, Lake, and Marion.
Where is Harold Schwartz buried?
Harold Schwartz, the founder of Orange Blossom Gardens, is buried near Spanish Springs Town Square.
Which town square was built first?
Spanish Springs Town Square was the first town square developed and remains one of the most historic areas in the community.
Does The Villages have its own newspaper?
Yes. Residents receive The Villages Daily Sun, one of the largest circulating newspapers in Florida.
How do residents safely cross major roads with golf carts?
The community has an extensive system of golf cart tunnels and bridges allowing safe travel under or over major roads.
How many clubs are available to residents?
There are more than 1,000 clubs and organizations covering sports, hobbies, music, travel, and many other interests.
How popular are golf carts in the community?
Golf carts are extremely popular and thousands are used daily by residents for transportation.
What happens every night at the town squares?
Every evening there is live music and dancing at the town squares for residents and visitors.
Why is the community known for pickleball?
The community has become known as one of the pickleball capitals of the world with numerous courts and leagues.
How large is The Villages community?
The Villages is considered one of the largest retirement communities in the world with over 130,000 residents.
Was The Villages ever one of the fastest-growing communities in America?
Yes. For several years The Villages was ranked as the fastest-growing metropolitan area in the United States.
How many golf holes are located throughout the community?
The Villages has more than 700 golf holes across championship and executive golf courses.
How many swimming pools are located throughout the community?
There are more than 100 swimming pools available throughout the community.
What type of special events are often held in the town squares?
The squares frequently host farmers markets, craft fairs, festivals, and classic car shows.
Do residents ever decorate their golf carts?
Yes! Many residents decorate their golf carts for parades, holidays, and special events.
Where do most residents come from?
Residents have moved to The Villages from all 50 states across the United States.
Why is The Villages known for being very active?
Residents participate in activities such as golf, swimming, Tai Chi, dancing, pickleball, biking, and walking groups.