Winter Garden is a city situated in western Orange County, Florida, within the United States. It lies approximately 14 miles west of Downtown Orlando, positioning it as part of the Orlando metropolitan area. The city occupies a strategic location bordered by Lake Apopka to the north and several neighboring municipalities including Windermere, Ocoee, and Oakland. Its geographic setting contributes to its role as a significant suburban community in Central Florida.

The area's history involves early Native American presence, followed by American settlement in the 1850s by families such as the Ropers and Reams. A. B. Newton is credited as the town's founder, serving as its first mayor and postmaster after the arrival of the Orange Belt Railroad spurred growth. Originally named Beulah, the community evolved through a citrus boom that defined its economy until freezes in the late 19th and 20th centuries shifted production elsewhere.

The city is characterized by its Downtown Historic District along Plant Street, which features a mix of small-town atmosphere and trendy businesses. Notable landmarks include the Winter Garden Heritage Museum, the Garden Theatre, and the Luther F. Tilden House. The West Orange Trail provides recreational access, while the terrain offers the highest elevation spot in Orange County at 222 feet near the Lake County line.

Winter Garden attracts visitors with its preserved historic residential districts and cultural institutions like the Central Florida Railroad Museum. The downtown area serves as a hub for shopping and dining, drawing locals and tourists alike. The town maintains pride in its citrus history, with oranges and grapefruits remaining symbolic elements of its identity despite the decline of local agricultural production.

The population was 46,964 as of the 2020 census, reflecting steady growth through recent decades. The economy has transitioned from agriculture to development and retail, supported by access to Florida's Turnpike and SR 429. Winter Garden experiences a warm, humid subtropical climate with hot, rainy summers and cooler winters, making it accessible year-round for those seeking an upscale suburban environment near Orlando.