When Did Orange Lake Resort Open?

By Alice Nichols

Orange Lake Resort is a popular vacation destination located in Kissimmee, Florida. It is a massive complex that offers guests a variety of amenities and activities to enjoy during their stay.

But when did this resort first open its doors to visitors? Let’s take a closer look at the history of Orange Lake Resort.

The Early Years

Orange Lake Resort first opened in 1982 under the name Orange Lake Country Club. The resort was developed by Kemmons Wilson, the founder of Holiday Inn, and was initially intended to be a timeshare property. The first phase of development included 468 villas spread across 1,100 acres of land.

Expansion and Renovation

Over the years, Orange Lake Resort continued to expand and evolve. In 1991, the resort added an additional 464 villas as part of its second phase of development. This brought the total number of villas up to 932.

In 1996, Orange Lake Country Club underwent a significant renovation. The resort added new amenities such as a water park and an 18-hole golf course designed by Arnold Palmer.

Becoming Orange Lake Resort

In 2000, Orange Lake Country Club officially changed its name to Orange Lake Resorts. This change reflected the resort’s expansion beyond just timeshare ownership and into full-service vacation rentals.

Since then, Orange Lake Resort has continued to grow and evolve. In 2015, the resort underwent another major renovation that included updates to existing villas as well as the addition of new amenities such as an arcade and mini-golf course.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Orange Lake Resort first opened its doors in 1982 as Orange Lake Country Club. Over the years, it has undergone several phases of development and expansion, adding new villas and amenities along the way. Today, it is a premier vacation destination that offers something for everyone, from families with young children to retirees looking for a relaxing getaway.