Tucked away just about 45 minutes northwest of Orlando, this small town has a unique charm that’s hard to find elsewhere in the state.
With its historic streets, lakeside views, cozy inns, and year-round festivals, Mount Dora is a perfect place to spend the day or a weekend.
I recently spent some time exploring many things that Mount Dora has to offer — here’s what you shouldn’t miss on your visit.
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1. Explore the Historic Downtown
The heartbeat of Mount Dora is its charming historic downtown. Walking these streets feels like stepping back in time.
The antique shops here are some of the best in Florida, and Renninger’s Vintage Antique Center & Flea Market is a must-visit during the weekend if you love hunting for one-of-a-kind treasures.
From boutique stores like Lemon Drop Market and Julianne’s Coastal Cottage to specialty spots like the Mount Dora Olive Oil Company, there’s no shortage of unique finds.
You can easily spend hours browsing the shops, sipping coffee, and grabbing a bite to eat.
2. Walk Along Lake Dora and Palm Island Boardwalk
The lakefront is one of the most relaxing parts of Mount Dora.
Palm Island Park offers a scenic boardwalk that winds through tall cypress trees and gives you a peaceful view of Lake Dora.
As you stroll along, keep an eye out for birds, turtles, and maybe even a gator or two hiding in the marshy areas.
The boardwalk is a great place for photos and an easy way to experience Mount Dora’s natural beauty.
3. Take a Boat Tour or Paddle on the Water
Lake Dora and the Dora Canal are some of the area’s biggest highlights, especially if you love being on the water.
One of the best ways to experience the area is with a guided boat tour through the Dora Canal, often called “the most beautiful mile of water in the world.”
You’ll ride beneath towering cypress trees draped in Spanish moss, with wildlife all around.
You can rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore at your own pace.
4. Dive Into the Art and History Scene
Mount Dora has a thriving arts community and several museums worth visiting.
If you’re interested in local history, stop by the Mount Dora History Museum, housed in a 1920s-era firehouse and jail.
Here, you can learn about the town’s early days and how it developed into the charming destination it is today.
The Mount Dora Center for the Arts also puts on rotating exhibits, art walks, and classes throughout the year, so there’s always something creative happening in town.
5. Enjoy Mount Dora’s Food Scene
For a small town, Mount Dora has an impressive food scene that’s packed with variety.
If you’re craving something casual, head to Back Porch Pizza Bar for their thin-crust pizza or The Salted Fry for their loaded fries, which are surprisingly addictive.
For sandwiches and gourmet deli options, Butcher’s Nook is a solid choice, and if you’re in the mood for something sweet and trendy, Magic Tea Market serves up Boba tea and Asian snacks.
For a nice sit-down dinner, try 1921 Mount Dora, which offers an elevated Florida-inspired menu, or The Goblin Market, a cozy restaurant with delicious steaks and seafood.
And if you want to enjoy a cocktail with a view, Pisces Rising is the place to be — their lakeside patio is perfect for sunset drinks (pictured above).
6. Plan Your Trip Around One Of The Many Festivals
One of the things that really makes Mount Dora a fun place to visit is how many festivals and events the town hosts throughout the year.
The Mount Dora Arts Festival, held every February, is one of Florida’s premier art shows, drawing artists and visitors from all over the country.
Spring brings the Blueberry Festival and the Spring Arts and Crafts Festival, while October features the massive Craft Fair that attracts thousands of visitors
Whether you visit in winter, spring, or fall, chances are you’ll find some kind of event or festival to enjoy during your trip.
7. Go On A Ghost Tour
For something a little spooky, Mount Dora’s Ghost Walk is a fun way to dive into the town’s haunted history.
Led by guides, the tour blends theatrical storytelling with real local legends, taking you through some of the town’s oldest streets after dark.
Whether or not you believe in ghosts, it’s a fun and memorable experience, especially if you’re visiting with friends or family.
For more on the ghost tours, go here.
Photo Credit: Lakeside Inn
8. Stay In A Historic Inn
Mount Dora’s accommodations add to its charm, especially if you stay in one of its historic inns or bed-and-breakfasts.
The Lakeside Inn is the most iconic — it’s the oldest continuously operating hotel in Florida, dating back more than 130 years.
Its beautiful Victorian architecture sits right on Lake Dora, offering gorgeous views and plenty of old-world charm.
Other excellent options include the Adora Inn, Magnolia Inn, and Grandview Bed & Breakfast, all offering cozy, personalized experiences you won’t find at a chain hotel.
Mount Dora may not have the big-name attractions you’ll find elsewhere in Florida, but that’s exactly why it’s worth visiting.
If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway filled with charm, scenery, great food, and a little bit of everything, Mount Dora delivers.
It’s no wonder this small town keeps winning over visitors, myself included.
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Booking a last-minute trip to Florida?
If so, we have you covered. Here are some top recommended tours and experiences!
Top Tours in Florida – Viator
Top Hotels In Florida – Booking.com
Looking To Get Around In Florida?
Check out rental car rates here! 🚗
