Known for its historic district, scenic beauty, and vibrant arts scene, Mount Dora offers a unique escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
With a picturesque setting on a plateau 180 feet above sea level and bordering Lake Dora, this town invites visitors to explore its charming streets, historic buildings, and natural beauty.
From antique shopping to scenic boat tours, there’s something for everyone in Mount Dora.
The Allure of Mount Dora’s Historic District
Mount Dora’s historic district is a treasure trove of locally owned shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
The town’s history dates back to the mid-19th century when it became a popular retreat for hunters, boaters, and fishermen. The centerpiece of the historic district is the Lakeside Inn, originally known as Alexander House. This beautiful lakeside hotel, saved from demolition in the 1980s, is now on the National Register of Historic Places and continues to operate with a full-service restaurant.
Architectural Wonders
The architectural landscape of Mount Dora is diverse and fascinating.
You’ll find Victorian-style buildings, including a striking steamboat Gothic Victorian home built in the 1890s by John Donnelly, the town’s first mayor. This house is now a popular spot for ghost tours, where visitors can explore the paranormal with entertaining guides.
Mount Dora Depot
Another architectural gem is the Mount Dora Depot, which incorporates elements of Queen Anne and Romanesque Revival styles.
Opened in the early 1900s, the depot was primarily used to transport citrus but also brought visitors to town. Today, it stands as a testament to the town’s rich history.
Scenic Beauty and Outdoor Activities
Mount Dora’s natural beauty is one of its biggest draws.
Lake Dora, part of the Harris Chain of Lakes, covers nearly 5,000 acres and offers stunning views and recreational opportunities.
Grantham Point Park and the Mount Dora Lighthouse
At Grantham Point Park, you’ll find the 35-foot Mount Dora Lighthouse, an iconic symbol of the city.
Built of bricks covered in stucco, it is the only inland freshwater lighthouse in Florida and helps guide boaters navigating the lake after dusk. The nearby boardwalk offers spectacular views and leads to Palm Island Park, a perfect spot for a picnic while enjoying nature.
Boat Tours and Cat Boat Adventures
To fully appreciate the natural beauty of the lakes, consider taking a scenic boat tour.
Several companies offer tours of Lake Dora and the famous Dora Canal, with knowledgeable guides sharing insights about the region. For a unique experience, try the cat boat adventure tours, which provide an exhilarating way to explore the waters.
Shopping and Dining in Mount Dora
Mount Dora’s downtown area is a shopper’s paradise, free from high rises and chain hotels.
Instead, you’ll find unique mom-and-pop shops, art galleries, and upscale boutiques.
Donnelly Street and Sweet Shops
Donnelly Street is the heart of the shopping district, with stores offering everything from home and garden treasures to books and board games.
There are also plenty of sweet shops to satisfy your cravings, including one inside the Renaissance Building where hand-dipped chocolate bonbons are miniature pieces of art.
The Salted Fry
For dining, one of the local favorites is The Salted Fry, located down an alleyway off West 4th Avenue.
This eatery specializes in gluten-free Belgian-style fries called “palm frites,” with a variety of sauces and toppings to choose from. The house-made bourbon ketchup is a must-try, and the menu also includes sandwiches, gluten-free beer, and a self-serve wine station.
Cultural Attractions and Festivals
Mount Dora is not just about shopping and dining; it also boasts a vibrant cultural scene.
Modernism Museum
One of the coolest museums in the area is the Modernism Museum on East 4th Avenue.
It houses the ultimate David Bowie Memphis Collection, with over 70 examples of Memphis objects that once belonged to the famous rocker.
Mount Dora Historical Society Museum
Operated by the local historical society, this museum is inside the city’s original jail and fire station.
It presents artifacts from the 1880s to the 1930s, offering a glimpse into the town’s past.
Festivals and Events
Mount Dora loves to celebrate, hosting several nationally acclaimed festivals throughout the year.
The Mount Dora Arts Festival, held the first full weekend of February, features works by hundreds of national creatives. Other events include a sailboat regatta, bicycle festival, Scottish Highland games, and numerous food festivals.
The Mount Dora Craft Fair, held every fourth weekend in October, is the town’s largest event, drawing over 250,000 visitors annually.
Exploring the Golden Triangle
Mount Dora is one of three towns in Lake County that make up the “Golden Triangle.”
The nearby city of Eustis offers a cute historic downtown and a beautiful park overlooking a large lake. Tavares, known as “America’s Seaplane City,” has several waterfront restaurants where you can watch seaplanes come and go.
Conclusion
Mount Dora, Florida, is a delightful blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural richness.
Whether you’re strolling through the historic district, exploring the scenic lakes, indulging in retail therapy, or enjoying the local festivals, Mount Dora offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
So, plan your visit to this charming town and discover all that it has to offer.