What Is Davie Florida Known For? A Local’s Honest Answer
Davie, Florida is known for its equestrian heritage, western character, and large lot residential properties in the middle of suburban South Florida. With a population of approximately 115,000, Davie is one of Broward County’s largest towns and one of the few communities where you can still ride a horse to the local gas station.
Equestrian Heritage and Western Roots
Davie’s identity is built on horses. The town was originally an agricultural community settled in the early 1900s, and it maintained its rural, western character even as surrounding cities urbanized. Today, Davie still has equestrian zoning on thousands of parcels, particularly in the western sections of town. The Bergeron Rodeo Grounds, located at 4271 Davie Road, hosts professional rodeo events, bull riding competitions, and the annual Orange Blossom Festival. Residents in western Davie acreage communities keep horses, goats, and livestock on properties ranging from one to five acres.
Old Davie School and Historic District
The Old Davie School, built in 1918, is the oldest standing school building in Broward County and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988. It now operates as the Old Davie School Historical Museum, offering exhibits on Davie’s pioneer history, Seminole interactions, and early agricultural economy. The surrounding historic district along Davie Road preserves the town’s character with local shops, restaurants, and the Davie Farmers Market. Learn more in our Davie History and Culture Guide.
Nova Southeastern University
Nova Southeastern University (NSU) is headquartered in Davie and is the largest private university in Florida by enrollment, with over 20,000 students. NSU’s campus spans 314 acres in central Davie and includes a medical school, law school, and the NSU Art Museum. The university is a major employer and economic driver, contributing over $4 billion annually to the South Florida economy. NSU’s presence gives Davie a college town atmosphere that most Broward County cities lack.
Parks and Natural Spaces
Davie is known for having some of Broward County’s best parks. Tree Tops Park covers 243 acres of natural wetlands, hardwood hammocks, and trails popular with hikers and horseback riders. Flamingo Gardens, a 60 acre botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary, houses Florida native animals and a historic Wray Home from the 1930s. Vista View Park, built on a former landfill, rises 100 feet above sea level, making it one of the highest points in Broward County. The town maintains over 50 parks and recreation facilities serving its 115,000 residents. See our complete Davie Parks and Recreation Guide for details.
Acreage Living in Suburbia
What truly sets Davie apart is its land. While neighboring cities like Plantation and Weston are defined by planned subdivisions and small lots, Davie offers one to five acre residential parcels, many with no HOA, just minutes from I-595, I-75, and the Florida Turnpike. This combination of space and accessibility attracts buyers who want room for RVs, boats, workshops, and animals without sacrificing a reasonable commute. The median lot size in western Davie is 0.75 acres, compared to 0.15 acres in Plantation and 0.2 acres in Weston.
Education and Schools
Beyond NSU, Davie is home to Broward College’s central campus and several highly rated public schools. McFatter Technical High School ranks as the 14th best public high school in Florida. Western High School and Nova High School both carry strong academic reputations. The town also hosts American Heritage School, a top rated private K through 12 institution. Davie’s school options are a significant draw for families relocating to Broward County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Davie, Florida famous for?
Davie is famous for its equestrian heritage, western lifestyle, and large lot properties. The Bergeron Rodeo Grounds, Old Davie School Historical Museum (built 1918), and Nova Southeastern University are among its most recognized landmarks.
Is Davie, Florida a good place to live?
Yes. Davie offers a unique combination of space, strong schools, and suburban convenience. With a population of 115,000, it has the amenities of a city with the lot sizes and character of a rural town. Crime rates are below the Broward County average.
Why is Davie called the Western Town?
Davie earned its western reputation from its agricultural and equestrian roots dating to the early 1900s. The town still maintains equestrian zoning on thousands of parcels, and the Bergeron Rodeo Grounds hosts professional rodeo events year round.
Does Davie still have horses?
Yes. Davie has more equestrian zoned residential properties than any other municipality in Broward County. Western Davie neighborhoods allow residents to keep horses on properties of one acre or more, and several boarding facilities and riding trails operate within town limits.
What university is in Davie, Florida?
Nova Southeastern University, the largest private university in Florida with over 20,000 students, is headquartered in Davie on a 314 acre campus. Broward College’s central campus is also located in Davie.
What parks are in Davie?
Davie has over 50 parks including Tree Tops Park (243 acres), Flamingo Gardens (60 acres), Vista View Park, and numerous neighborhood parks. The town’s park system is one of the most extensive in Broward County.
How big is Davie, Florida?
Davie has a population of approximately 115,000 and covers 35 square miles, making it one of the largest towns by area in Broward County. It stretches from University Drive on the east to the Everglades on the west.
Related Resources
Explore Davie with a Local Expert
Anthony Spitaleri, Broker Associate and REALTOR in Davie, Florida, has lived and worked in this community for years. Whether you are considering a move or just want to learn what makes Davie different from every other South Florida suburb, book a free consultation and get honest answers from someone who knows every block.
