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Often referred to as The Village of Wellington, this city in Palm Beach County is revered for its natural beauty and equestrian culture. Around 61,000 people live in Wellington, and it's been called one of the best places to live in the nation more than once. Perhaps it's because Wellington started out as the world's largest strawberry patch, part of land owned by Charles Oliver Wellington, who aptly named it the Flying Cow Ranch in honor of his initials.
Those who settle in Wellington want to live the good life. Near beautiful coastline with opportunities for outdoor leisure, the city boasts an assortment of local businesses as well as B/E Aerospace's main headquarters. A few famous faces are associated with Wellington: actors Glenn Close and Tommy Lee Jones, musicians Bruce Springsteen and Madonna, and entrepreneur Bill Gates have all called Wellington home at some point.
Palm Beach County, part of the Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach metro, is Florida's wealthiest county. Locals can take the short drive from Wellington into the bright lights of West Palm Beach (30 minutes) for a day trip to the beach or luxurious evening out, or they can drive to Miami in about 80 minutes. For public transportation, the Palm-Tran bus system travels throughout the county; the fare is $2 per person, with reduced rates for seniors and the disabled. If you take the bus to West Palm Beach, bring your bike to stow on the bus' bike racks ? the city has been ranked among the most bike-friendly in the U.S.
Horse lovers will feel entirely at home in Wellington. The city is known to be a hub of professional equestrian events, particularly during the winter months. Wellington also offers a number of parks and outdoor venues, as well as a large public library. The Wellington Amphitheater hosts music, comedy, food truck festivals and family-friendly movie nights throughout the year.
