2021 People's Choice Winner: Mill Lake Park Continuum
The Mill Lake Park Continuum is located in Orange City, Florida in southwest Volusia County. It is a half-mile stretch on S. Holly Avenue between E. Blue Springs Avenue and E. Graves Avenue in the heart of the city’s historic district, established in 1882. Mill Lake Park (207 E Blue Springs Ave) was completed in 2018, and is an active space for all types of residents and visitors. Joggers can run, walkers can stroll, skaters can glide and bikers can bike, all enjoying the multi-use trail around the perimeter of the lake while taking in the peaceful view of wildlife in their natural habitat.
Just off the trail is the splash pad; the perfect space to cool off and have fun during the hot summer months. Directly across the street is Coleman Park (210 E Blue Springs Ave), which features the skate park and the newest playground in the city. Parents can sit and enjoy the shade from a pavilion while kids of all ages enjoy the recreation of the area; climbing on the structures at the Evelyn Durant Robinson Playground, skating at Colin’s Dream, or getting in a game of basketball at the court.
A quick stroll down S. Holly Ave, which recently underwent a facelift, allowing the historic beauty to shine through with brick pavers, planters, and other streetscape elements, is Dickinson Park (120 E Graves Ave). Dickinson Park has a rich history with the city and features the ‘Monarch City USA’ butterfly garden and a striking gazebo, a seamless backdrop for weddings.
The Mill Lake Continuum is the main hub of recreation in Orange City and is also the location for most community events. The Halloween Block Party, Holiday Light Up, National Night Out, Movie in the Park, Arbor Day Tree Giveaway are just some of the activities that take place in this space. With events limited this past year, this great place delivered outdoor recreation opportunities to the community providing a much-needed respite from the pandemic.
