Best Things To Do In Mount Dora, Florida

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After my recent visits to Mount Dora, Florida, it has easily become one of my favourite small cities to visit. Full of fun things to do, delicious restaurants, and trails to explore. I know after one visit, you’ll want to return year after year! Perhaps I’ll see you at the farmer’s market! Without further ado, here’s everything you need to know about visiting Mount Dora.

Getting To Mt Dora

The drive to Mount Dora from Orlando takes about 40 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic! Flying into the Orlando airport is most convenient, however we flew into Tampa airport and it took about an hour and 45 minutes. 

Once you’re in Mt Dora, everything in the downtown area is pretty walkable, but having a car is definitely helpful to visit other areas like Eustis and Tavares. 

Things To Do In Mount Dora

Although it is a small city, there is plenty to do! From museums, to shopping, to festivals, you’ll find plenty of fun things to entertain you, and keep your belly full!

Mount Dora Farmers Market

Every Sunday from 9am – 2pm, head down to Sunset Park to check out the Downtown Mount Dora Village Market. With everything from fresh produce, amazing kettle corn (seriously, I’m still dreaming about it), to plants and housewares, there are 50+ vendors for you to browse. Grab a coffee at Foxtail Coffee and enjoy your Sunday!

Modernism Museum

Lovers of modern art can visit the Modernism Museum Mount Dora on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10am-5pm. See the work of Wharton Esherick, Wendell Castle and others, including art from David Bowie’s personal collection.  

Shopping

I just love browsing local shops when I visit a new place, and there are plenty in Mt Dora. We loved St. Nick’s Holiday Shoppe, and the Mount Dora Olive Oil Company in particular. Park downtown and wander around, I’m sure you’ll find lots of stores you love too.

Mount Dora Historic Buildings

One of my favourite things to do when visiting a new town is to check out their historic buildings, and Mount Dora has plenty! Mt Dora’s historic district features many buildings from the early 20th century, so wander around the area bounded by 3rd Avenue, 11th Avenue, Clayton Street, and Helen Street.

Notable buildings include:

• Atlantic Coastline Depot – 341 Alexander Street
• Donnelly House – 535 Donnelly Street
• Lakeside Inn – 100 Alexander Street
• Witherspoon Lodge – 1410 N. Clayton Street

Palm Island Park

If you love to wander a boardwalk, this is the place for you! Palm Island Park is an 8 acre nature preserve with boardwalks, trails and picnic areas. It was very peaceful to walk through, although I was slightly nervous an alligator might be just around every corner, we didn’t actually see any. The native plants and trees are beautiful. The park is typically open from 7am-sunset each day. 

Mount Dora Lighthouse

The iconic Mount Dora Lighthouse is close to the entrance of Palm Island Park, and both are a short 5 minute walk from downtown Mt Dora. The lighthouse was built in 1988, and is the only in-land lighthouse in Florida that provides navigation!

Tours in Mount Dora

Boat Tours

If you’re looking to see Mt Dora from the water, there are a few boat tour options. Although I haven’t personally taken one, Rusty Anchor Boat Tours has been around a long time, and they offer a few different tour options. Learn about the history of the area, and you may even see an alligator!

Mount Dora Ghost Tours

We had a fantastic time with Mount Dora Ghost Tours. Their tours take place on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings, starting at 8pm and ending around 10pm. Our tour guide Doc led us around known haunts in the city, such as Lakeside Inn, the old Simpson Hotel and the former jail. Armed with “Ghost Meters” we learned about the history of the city, and perhaps found some ghosts ourselves!

The company also provides haunted pub crawls, paranormal experiences inside the Donnelly House and more.

Mount Dora Restaurants

For a small town, there are plenty of eateries to choose from! Plus the city of Mt Dora has an open container policy, so you can always take your drink to go! Here are a few of the highest rates restaurants in Mount Dora:

The Goblin Market

Welcome to the Goblin Market, where they serve elevated American and international foods. 

• Wednesday – Sunday for Lunch & Dinner
• Gluten free & Vegetarian options
• Reservations for dinner recommended (lunch is first-come-first-served basis)
• $$-$$$

Magical Meat Boutique

Don’t let the name fool you, the Magical Meat Boutique serves British pub food, using imported British ingredients and featuring live music every weekend.

• Open Daily for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Vegetarian options
• No reservations required
• $$

PizzAmore

Craving some pizza? Check out PizzAmore serving pizza, pasta and more! They focus on local ingredients, and unique offerings.

• Open Daily for Lunch & Dinner
• Vegetarian & Gluten Free options (including gluten free pizza)
• No reservations required
• $$

When To Visit Mount Dora

The best time to visit Mount Dora? Whenever you’re close by! In my experience, February temperatures are usually comfortable, and Mount Dora isn’t too crowded. May through September is the rainy season in Florida, and it could be quite wet. 

Mount Dora Festivals

Mount Dora is known as Festival City, and for good reason! They host more than 30 festivals every year – so there’s definitely something for everyone. Mount Dora Area Chamber of Commerce is the best place to stay up to date on all the festivals, but here are a few highlights.

Rennigar’s Antique Extravaganza – Takes place three times per year in January, February and November, and it’s an antique hunter’s dream! 

Annual Art Festival – 2024 celebrated the 49th annual art festival, showcasing 300 art vendors from around the world. Takes place in early February

Annual Sail Boat Regatta – Join in on the oldest sail boat regatta in the state! The regatta takes place in March, with 2024 dates being March 23-24th 

Mount Dora Bicycle Fest – Cycle Mt Dora and earn your medal! Choose from road biking or mountain biking. This event is in October and will take place October 4-6 2024.

Light Up Mount Dora – Kick off the Christmas season in November with Christmas lights, food vendors, entertainment, fireworks and of course a visit with Santa! 

FAQs

• Is Mount Dora a good destination for a day trip from Orlando?

Yes! Mount Dora is a great place to get out of the busy city of Orlando for the day. Being only 40 min- 1 hour outside of Orlando, you can go for a few hours or a whole day. 

• What is the weather like in Mt Dora?

The weather will vary throughout the year. January, February and December can be cool, with a high of 21-22C (70-71F) and a low of 10-12C (50-54F). March, April, October and November tend to be the most comfortable months with the least chance of rain. May- September are the hottest and wettest months of the year, and may not be the best for visiting!

• What are some other nearby places to visit?

Mt Dora is part of the “Golden Triangle” which also includes Eustis and Tavares. Eustis has a great waterfront where you can wander, plus conservation areas and museums. Tavares, known as America’s Seaplane City, also has a great waterfront, where you can of course book a seaplane ride. Also if you make it there, make sure to eat at BTW, I’m still dreaming about the chicken and waffles I had.  

Ready To Book Your Trip To Mt Dora?

Are you daydreaming about a trip to Mount Dora now too? It’s definitely one of my favourite places I’ve visited and a great place to leave the hustle and bustle of the larger cities in Florida. 

Want more Florida content? I have tons of Disney related posts, plus tips to help you plan your trip to Miami!