This under-the-radar Florida getaway is home to 1,000 lakes and a 20-story citrus tower
Boat tours, seaplanes, and stunning sunset views await.
When planning a trip to Florida, many flock to places with wide ocean views and white-sand beaches, which is part of the state's appeal as a vacation destination. However, if you love being by the water, heading to the ocean isn’t the only option, as the inland parts boast numerous lakes and waterways to satisfy your need for time by the water.
Whether you just want to wake up to a pretty view while sipping your coffee or are the adventurous type and want to paddle, boat, or jet ski within view of a shoreline, Florida’s Lake County has over 1,000 bodies of water to enjoy. Couple that with quaint downtowns, historic sites, and a thriving culinary scene, and you have the perfect under-the-radar vacation spot for your next trip to The Sunshine State.
Where Is Lake County?
Although Orlando gets a lot of the focus, Lake County is just to the west, and it’s the perfect area to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and its theme parks. With plenty of lakes, this water-laden county is filled with beautiful landscapes, ripe for sitting to enjoy the view. That fact, coupled with hilly terrain, makes the outdoors a focus, so you can choose to boat, fly, ride, or walk.
Whether you decide to stay in Mount Dora and explore shops, restaurants, and the water, all within a short walk from your inn, or immerse yourself in nature by making Lake Louisa State Park your home base, the county has many options for a variety of tastes. And the kind folks there are ready to welcome you.
Best Things to Do
Go Horseback Riding
One of the best attributes of Lake County is Lake Louisa State Park, and riding horseback is a unique way to explore it. Even if you’ve never ridden a horse, you can book either a one-hour or two-hour trail ride through the park. Knowledgeable wranglers will make sure you’re settled onto your steed before the group heads off to see the wildlife, fauna, and flora throughout the park.
Experience Outdoor Adventure
Whether you choose to ride an ATV, board a jet ski, or man a Mucky Duck — an eight-wheeled vehicle that rides on water and land—Revolution Adventures is at the ready. With 300 acres to explore, you can traverse the property while on your adventures. If you prefer a slower pace, there is also skeet shooting, fishing, and archery to connect you with the outdoors.
Visit the Citrus Tower
Located in the town of Clermont, which was once thriving with citrus groves, sits the Citrus Tower, a 20-story monument to the town’s former industry. A short ride to the top offers views from every angle within a glassed-in space, so you can go rain or shine. The entry fee is for a day pass, so you can see the vista during the day and return at dusk to see the sunset.
Ride a Seaplane
The quaint town of Tavares, known as “America’s Seaplane City,” lies on Lake Dora, which provides lovely views and is the perfect place for boarding a seaplane. If you want a quick trip, opt for the 15-minute Dash and Splash, or settle in for a one-hour tour over the river, where you may see manatees. To see the sky in full color, book the 30-minute sunset tour.
Golf at a Historic Course
A picturesque drive to Howie-in-the-Hills will lead you to two golf courses, both located at Mission Resort + Club. As a circa-1917 historic course, El Campeón challenges golfers with its elevation changes and water hazards. Its sister course, Las Colinas, is a bit more land-centric, with fairways that wind through tree-lined corridors alongside Floridian homes. Personalized lessons are also available to learn the game or hone skills.
Take a Boat Tour
One of the interesting things about the chain of lakes is that they are connected by a series of canals, which let you get close to nature and glimpse how locals live. And one of the best ways to experience this is to take a 2-hour tour of Lake Dora and the connecting canals, where your guides will discuss the area's history and point out wildlife, including birds and large alligators.
Board a CatBoat
Need a very close-up view of the water? Ride a CatBoat, a two-person powered catamaran that sits close to the water and provides a different kind of adventure. While the time is a guided tour, participants drive their own boat while listening to the guide via a headset. It’s the perfect way to enjoy Lake Dora’s canals slowly and then zip across the lake at high speed to finish.
Snorkel in Natural Springs
While Florida has many natural springs, which are beautiful pools with clear water, Alexander Springs in the Ocala National Forest is a popular attraction. Because there is a large, shallow area, children can enjoy seeing the pristine bottom and schools of fish navigating the pool. More adventurous folks can swim over to the deep basin to see the interesting formations below.
Where to Shop
A favorite spot for visitors to shop is Mount Dora, which has a walkable downtown hub lined with locally owned boutiques and restaurants. It’s also known for its multiple antique shops along with Renninger’s, where you can pop into the flea and farmer’s market on weekends or plan your trip during one of its large, outdoor markets that happen twice a year. Thrifters will also enjoy Hospice Hope Chest, a curated resale shop in the heart of the city.
When in the mood to wander boutiques and gift shops, head to downtown Clermont, which also features plenty of shops and restaurants all within a short walk. Highlights are the adorable Sunshine Book Co., which has new and used titles in a cheery house, and The Downtown Exchange, featuring multiple small businesses in a market-style environment.
Where to Eat and Drink
Fuel Your Day
Heading to visit the Citrus Tower early in the morning is the perfect idea because you can get a quick coffee and pastry while you buy your ticket to the top at Citrus Coffee Co. A must-try is the Orange Creme Latte, which pays homage to the area’s former industry with orange and vanilla flavors. While in Mount Dora, stop by Cody’s on 4th for a traditional breakfast, or grab-and-go if you’re just in the mood for a baked good. Whether or not you’re staying at Lakeside Inn, be sure to sit on their porch and enjoy a freshly made-to-order breakfast with a lakeside view.
Have a Midday Break
When traveling with a group, the variety of options at Montrose Street Market can please everyone. From Italian and Mexican to Asian and traditional American, you won't go hungry because it’s difficult to make a selection. Goblin Market is a Mount Dora staple, where you can dine in the moody interior or head outside to the garden patio to enjoy your meal. While in Tavares, stop by BTW (which stands for burgers, tacos, waffles) for a hearty lunch before or after your seaplane ride.
Elevate Your Evening Meal
Conquistador at Mission Resort provides an upscale dining experience on the deck, inside the newly renovated dining room, or at the stunning bar. Seafood lovers will enjoy the casual, outdoor dining experience at Salt Shack. The restaurant is right on Lake Minneola and features dishes like tuna tartare, crab cake sandwiches, and Bahamian conch chowder. The Crooked Spoon in Clermont is known for handhelds, such as the cranberry turkey sandwich and the cocoa and coffee burger. Puddle Jumpers is a casual eatery on the lake in Tavares, and Pisces Rising is right across from the yacht club in Mount Dora, which adds to the maritime vibe.
Grab a Drink
For a morning cup of Joe from an adorable shop, stop by Nautilus Coffee Co., which is decorated in nautical-themed vintage pieces — be sure to grab a baked good while you’re there. For a winery experience, take a tour of Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards, which offers tours and a lengthy tasting at the end. While Suncreek Brewery has a vast beer selection, check their calendar, as you may be lucky enough to catch one of their popular events or tapas nights while you’re in the area.
Mission Resort + Club Credit: Photo: Jennifer Prince
Where to Stay
For a true respite, book your stay at Mission Resort + Club, a historic hotel with recently renovated rooms. There’s also a spa, walking paths, and several restaurants on site, meaning that you can really have a home away from home. When life calls for a laid-back retreat by the water, head to Lakeside Inn, which has heritage dating back to 1883. Whether you walk to shops and restaurants, enjoy the pool, or watch the sunset, it’s the perfect place to anchor your stay. Nature lovers can elevate their experience by booking a glamping tent at Lake Louisa State Park, which puts you close to trails and lakeside vistas.
