If you’ve been to The Villages, you probably know there’s a lot to do, and you likely know it’s a great area for anyone.
If you’re visiting the area with a group, whether it be anything from a work conference to a wedding, chances are, you might already have some things on your agenda for your stay. That’s why, when you get some free time, you should make the best of it.
Andrea McHugh, senior sales and catering manager at The Brownwood Hotel & Spa in The Villages, said there is more to do in the area than you might imagine, which makes it the perfect location for small or large gatherings.
In the area
Because the hotel frequently hosts corporations and associations -- in addition to weddings and other social groups -- McHugh has a good idea of the variety of things people can and like to take advantage of in the area during their free time.
“There is horseback riding in nearby Lake Panasoffkee, golfing at the more than 14 championship golf courses in The Villages, nearby airboat tours, antiquing at the Wildwood Antique Market and exploring all The Villages has to offer by cruising around town in a golf cart,” McHugh said. “There are roads specifically designed for golf cart traffic that span throughout The Villages. It is a nice way to enjoy the scenery and have a relaxing drive while exploring the area -- and it’s fun for the kids, as well.”
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She said there is a performing arts center called The Sharon that hosts concerts, cabarets, ballets and comedy shows. It’s home to The Villages Philharmonic Orchestra.
“There’s great nightly entertainment in the town squares, too,” McHugh said. “Each town square hosts a band from 5-9 p.m. every night of the week.”
Holding gatherings
McHugh credits all the fun near the hotel as part of the attraction for people to stay at The Brownwood Hotel & Spa, but just as important, she said, is that the hotel provides a unique experience to anyone who is holding any kind of gathering.
For starters, amid the variety of meeting spaces, there’s one that includes a working kitchen.
“In this kitchen, cooking classes or demonstrations can be held,” McHugh said. “This is great for team building experiences.”
And the ballroom opens to an outdoor terrace where anyone can enjoy the outdoor sunshine and beautiful scenery.
“Our courtyard is the perfect outdoor venue for a welcome reception or a cocktail hour,” she said.
She added that the hotel has an “amazing banquet chef” who allows the hotel the opportunity to customize experiences for clients when they are looking for something new and different from the menu.
But the best thing, McHugh said, is the special atmosphere that has been cultivated within the walls of The Brownwood Hotel & Spa.
“Our hotel combines elegance with the Florida cowboy, creating a very unique atmosphere,” she said.
When people are looking for a special place to go, McHugh said they should consider all they can experience within reach, inside and outside the hotel.
“The Brownwood is located in an area with shopping, restaurants and entertainment that are just a golf cart ride away, and that’s in addition to the variety of amenities on property,” she said. “Whether you’re an outdoors type or indoors, there are so many options on site and around Wildwood and The Villages.”
The Brownwood Hotel & Spa is a short drive from the Orlando International Airport. McHugh said a local transportation company, Groome Transportation, offers shuttle service to and from the hotel and the airport.
To learn more about The Brownwood Hotel & Spa, what it can offer groups who are looking for a space to gather, or what you can find nearby, click or tap here.