Welcome to Southwest Ranches
Expansive private estates and tranquil communities await in this western Broward County town.
Geographically and ambiance-wise, Southwest Ranches fully lives up to its name. Located in Broward County, just south of Weston and northwest of Pembroke Pines, the small yet spacious town is home to approximately 8,000 residents. For commuters it is 15 miles southwest of Fort Lauderdale and just over 20 miles northwest of Miami.
If an expansive estate and lot is what you seek, Southwest Ranches is a top regional choice. The zoning in the town is nearly all agricultural and residential, meaning this is a prime spot for setting up that dream farm of yours. It’s not uncommon to hear a rooster caw-caw-ing first thing in the morning, donkeys hee-hawing and cows mooing under the Florida sun. Equally as dazzling as its charm, is its tranquility – celebrities like Gisele Bundchen have recently scooped up property in town.
What to Love
- Agricultural and land bliss, with the bulk of lots being one-plus acre.
- Less traffic and hustle-and-bustle than its Broward city counterparts.
- Proximity to Miami, Fort Lauderdale and all points in between from a western home-base.
Local Lifestyle
Open spaces, equestrian trails and facilities aplenty await in Southwest Ranches. Sunshine Ranches Equestrian Park is a local hotspot for enjoying it all, including 10-plus acres of trails; an open stable and trailer parking area; a 10,000-plus square foot equestrian practice ring; a 37,000 square foot show ring; and, for the kiddos, a farm-themed playground. For organic products – many of which are grown on farms in town – Southwest Ranches Farmers Market is a place to be. The shop is open Tuesday through Sunday and boasts a fresh selection of grass-fed beef, raw dairy and the freshest of eggs. One of the area’s biggest family friendly draws, Flamingo Park in Pembroke Pines, is just east of Southwest Ranches’ confines, too. The park includes more than 10 baseball fields, pavilions for events and two shaded playgrounds.
Dining, Entertainment, Shopping
Within and just beyond Southwest Ranches, several shopping, dining and entertainment selections await.
For groceries, there are multiple Publix grocery stores either within or just beyond Southwest Ranches’ official limits, including in Coquina Plaza, at Laguna Isles, at Weston Commons and at Countryside Shops. There is also a Fresh Market at the intersection of Sheridan Street and South Flamingo Road.
For dining, Weston Commons – just north of Griffin Road at SW 160th Avenue – has big-name favorites like Chili’s Grill & Bar, Bonefish Grill, Pei Wei Asian Kitchen and Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza & Wings.
On the shopping front, there are two clusters of shopping complexes at Sheridan Street and South Flamingo Road – Flamingo Falls and Shoppes of Cooper City. Within them, you can shop unique finds at the likes of Big Bazar Cooper City – an Indian focused market – or peruse the latest bling at Falls Jewelers.
Things to Do
Beyond Southwest Ranches’ cozy vibe, there is oh-so-much to do nearby. Just west of the community, near the intersection of Griffin Road and Highway 27, is access to Everglades Holiday Park Airboat Tours and Rides. A regional attraction, the spot includes high-speed airboat rides and gator encounters galore. Within 15 minutes, you can be to Sawgrass Mills – one of the world’s largest outlet centers with nearly 400 stores. South of town and within 10 minutes are two of the region’s most splashin’ attractions – C.B. Smith Park and Miramar Regional Park each offer aquatic parks at friendly rates for the entire family.
Schools
Multiple schools serve Southwest Ranches including: