Sign up for an air boat tour that explores the lakes and wetlands from one of the many guides in the area. Black Hammock Adventures in Oviedo, about 25 minutes away from Longwood, offers air boat tours in central Florida that meander through shallow wetlands and narrow creeks for sightseeing and alligator-viewing. Tours are led by an experienced guide who specializes in locating alligators. The scheduled tours leave from Black Hammock Marina using air boats that travel up to 45 miles per hour; tour durations range from 30, 45 and 60 minutes.
Visit Big Tree Park on General Hutchinson Parkway and enjoy picnicking, nature hikes and wildlife viewing. Spanning 11 acres, the park is filled with scenic marsh lands and vegetation. Walk along the boardwalk and see the well-known 3,500-year old bald cypress, also called "The Senator." The 138-foot tree was named after Senator M.O. Overstreet who donated the park property to Seminole County in 1929. Park facilities include picnic tables and restroom facilities.
Fish in the lakes and rivers of central Florida and catch a variety of game fish species. Novice and experienced anglers can sign up for guided fishing tours to explore the fish habitats in the area. Numerous fishing charters, including Mosquito Lagoon Fishing Charters in Chuluota, offer guided fishing excursions for catching large mouth bass, sunshine bass and crappie on St Johns River, Wekiwa River, Rock Springs Run and Black Water Creek. Mosquito Lagoon Fishing Charters is located half an hour away from Longwood where anglers can choose from different trips like back country flats fishing, near-shore coastal fishing, back country wilderness fishing and overnight camping and fishing excursions.
Experience indoor rock climbing by taking a one-hour introductory course to learn the fundamentals of the sport at the Aiguille Rock Climbing Center. Learn climbing protocols, how to put on the harness, tie in to the rope, belay, basic techniques and rock climbing safety rules. Rock climbing under guided supervision is practiced after the introductory course. Classes are available on a walk-in basis and rental equipment is available including climbing shoes, harness, belay device and helmet.
