Things to Do in Lake County, Florida

Lake County, Florida, is a treasure trove of rolling hills, sparkling lakes, citrus groves, and small-town charm. Located in Central Florida, it’s known for its natural beauty, historic towns like Mount Dora and Clermont, and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Whether you love hiking, fishing, wine tasting, or family-friendly festivals, Lake County offers something for every traveler.

🌟 Top Attractions and Landmarks

1. 🏞️ Lake Louisa State Park (Clermont) – Spanning over 4,500 acres, this state park features 20 miles of hiking and equestrian trails, glamping cabins, picnic areas, and a beach on Lake Louisa. It’s an ideal spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and wildlife watching—especially early mornings when deer and egrets frequent the lakeshore. Visitors can rent bikes or join guided nature walks led by park rangers. Open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset; $5 parking fee per vehicle.
2. 🍊 Showplace of Citrus (Clermont) – A beloved family-owned attraction that embodies the spirit of old Florida. Guests can hop on massive monster trucks for off-road adventures through the groves, meet farm animals, and sample fresh orange juice straight from the press. The on-site market sells local honey, jams, and citrus-themed gifts. Seasonal events like the Pumpkin Patch and Festival of Citrus bring extra excitement. Open daily 9 a.m.–7 p.m.; free admission, with pay-per-activity options.
3. 🍷 Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards (Clermont) – Florida’s largest and most celebrated winery invites visitors to explore a 127-acre estate surrounded by rolling vineyards. Guided tours include behind-the-scenes views of fermentation rooms, bottling lines, and barrel storage. Complimentary tastings feature several signature blends such as Southern Red and Chablis-style whites. On weekends, live music, food trucks, and craft vendors transform the grounds into a festive gathering spot. Open Mon–Sat 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
4. 🌿 Crooked River Preserve (Clermont) – A hidden gem offering a 1.7-mile loop trail through cypress swamps and pine flatwoods. Nature lovers can observe herons, turtles, and a variety of native wildflowers along the Palatlakaha River. The preserve also provides canoe and kayak access, making it ideal for peaceful paddles through shaded waterways. Interpretive signs along the trail describe local ecology and conservation efforts. Open dawn–dusk; free entry.
5. 🌄 Green Mountain Scenic Overlook (Montverde) – One of the highest points in Central Florida, offering sweeping vistas of Lake Apopka and, on clear days, the Orlando skyline. Visitors can climb the observation tower, stroll along elevated boardwalks, and connect with the 20-mile Lake Apopka Loop Trail. The overlook is a hotspot for birdwatching—bring binoculars to spot hawks, eagles, and migrating songbirds. Open daily from dawn to dusk; free admission.
6. 🐊 Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive (Astatula) – This 11-mile scenic loop through wetlands is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Drive slowly to spot hundreds of bird species, including roseate spoonbills, ospreys, and great blue herons, as well as turtles and alligators sunbathing along the banks. Designated pull-offs allow photography and quiet observation. Open Fri–Sun and holidays, sunrise–sunset; bring water and insect repellent.
7. 🌺 Venetian Gardens Park (Leesburg) – A picturesque lakeside park that’s perfect for picnicking, leisurely walks, or family gatherings. With lush landscaping, playgrounds, boat ramps, and shaded gazebos, it’s a favorite local hangout. The park hosts community festivals and the city’s spectacular July 4 fireworks show over Lake Harris. Open daily; free admission and ample parking.
8. 🏘️ Historic Downtown Mount Dora (Mount Dora) – This charming downtown district combines history, art, and lakeside living. Visitors can browse antique shops, explore art galleries, or dine at cozy cafes along tree-lined streets. Seasonal festivals like the Mount Dora Craft Fair (October) and Christmas Walk (December) fill the streets with lights, music, and local vendors. The area’s historic architecture and friendly atmosphere make it a must-see year-round destination.

🚴‍♀️ Outdoor Activities

1. 🥾 Hiking and Biking – Explore more than 20 miles of interconnected trails at Lake Louisa State Park, the Lake Apopka Loop Trail, and Crooked River Preserve. Each location offers distinct terrain, from pine forests to cypress swamps. Lake Louisa’s trails are ideal for nature photographers and sunrise joggers, while Crooked River’s shaded pathways attract birdwatchers. The South Lake Trail in Clermont connects to the statewide Coast-to-Coast Trail, giving cyclists a smooth route along Lake Minneola’s scenic shoreline with rest stops, picnic shelters, and fitness stations along the way. Local bike rental shops offer guided tours for beginners and experienced riders alike.
2. 🚤 Boating and Fishing – With more than 1,000 lakes, Lake County truly lives up to its name. The Harris Chain of Lakes is the centerpiece of the region, where anglers chase largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie year-round. Several marinas rent pontoon boats and kayaks, and sunset cruises depart nightly from Mount Dora and Tavares. Adventure seekers can explore the Dora Canal, known as the “Jungle Waterway,” lined with towering cypress trees draped in Spanish moss. For families, waterfront parks often include fishing piers and launch ramps, and visitors can join local fishing tournaments held in spring and summer. In Tavares, “America’s Seaplane City,” guests can enjoy seaplane tours that combine flightseeing with lakeside dining experiences.
3. 🦉 Nature Reserves – Lake Norris Conservation Area, Trout Lake Nature Center, and Flat Island Preserve offer peaceful escapes into Florida’s natural beauty. Hike boardwalks through marshland, paddle through blackwater rivers, or explore interpretive exhibits about native ecosystems. At Trout Lake Nature Center, visitors can participate in educational programs, night hikes, and stargazing events. Lake Norris features a hidden cypress dome with one of the oldest stands of bald cypress trees in Central Florida. Flat Island Preserve provides primitive campsites for those seeking solitude and immersion in nature. Many of these reserves also connect to regional trails, offering extended routes for multi-day backpacking and kayaking adventures.

👨‍👩‍👧 Family-Friendly Destinations

1. 🎃 Amber Brooke Farms (Eustis) – This family farm hosts a wide array of seasonal events including fall festivals, hayrides, sunflower fields, and U-pick strawberries. Families can enjoy pony rides, outdoor games, and fresh bakery treats from the farm’s market. During the fall season, the farm transforms into a wonderland of pumpkins and corn mazes, while in spring it becomes a floral paradise. There are also food trucks, live music on weekends, and plenty of shaded picnic areas where parents can relax while kids play.
2. ⚾ Leesburg Lightning Baseball – Catch a game at Pat Thomas Stadium during the summer collegiate league season and experience a slice of small-town Americana. Fans can enjoy the smell of popcorn and the crack of the bat while supporting local talent. The atmosphere is friendly and family-oriented, with themed nights, giveaways, and post-game fireworks that light up the sky. Kids can run the bases after select games, and there’s always a chance to grab a photo with the team’s mascot or players.
3. 💦 Local Water Parks and Pools – Lake County’s recreation centers and city parks include splash pads, water slides, and public pools—perfect for cooling off on a hot Florida afternoon. Popular spots like Wooton Park Splash Pad in Tavares and Venetian Gardens’ aquatic facilities provide safe, clean, and affordable fun for all ages. Many parks host summer camps and swimming lessons, making them great options for locals and visitors alike. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and a picnic for a full day of fun by the water.

🍽️ Dining and Local Flavors

1. 🐟 Pisces Rising (Mount Dora) – A popular lakefront restaurant serving fresh Florida seafood and steaks. The menu emphasizes locally sourced ingredients, from Gulf shrimp to seasonal vegetables, and each dish is artfully plated. Guests can enjoy cocktails or fine wines while watching the sun set over Lake Dora. The restaurant also hosts weekend brunches featuring mimosas and live jazz. Its rustic wood interiors and open-air patio create a warm, inviting atmosphere ideal for romantic dinners or family celebrations.
2. 🍤 Salt Shack on the Lake (Clermont) – A laid-back, island-inspired seafood restaurant right on Lake Minneola, perfect for those who love waterfront dining. In addition to fish tacos and shrimp platters, the menu includes stone crab, mahi sandwiches, and tropical drinks. The relaxed vibe is complemented by live music, a tiki-style bar, and panoramic water views. Boaters can even dock nearby and dine on the deck. It’s a must-visit spot for both locals and travelers looking for a true taste of Florida’s coastal flavors.
3. 🍷 The Goblin Market (Mount Dora) – Tucked away in downtown Mount Dora, this upscale bistro is known for its eclectic menu and literary ambiance. Bookshelves line the walls, and candlelit tables create an intimate dining experience. The kitchen blends American and European influences, serving dishes such as duck confit, filet mignon, and house-made desserts. A curated wine list and artisan cocktails make it a favorite for date nights and special occasions. The friendly, knowledgeable staff ensures each guest feels like a regular.
4. 🍊 Farm Stands and Local Citrus – Don’t miss Florida’s iconic citrus at roadside stands throughout the county—especially during the winter harvest season. These colorful markets offer fresh oranges, grapefruits, tangerines, and locally made marmalades. Many also sell raw honey, homemade pies, and handcrafted souvenirs. Visitors can watch fruit being juiced on-site and sample products before buying. During harvest festivals, local farms often host tasting events, wagon rides, and educational tours that highlight Lake County’s agricultural heritage.

🎉 Seasonal Events

1. 🌸 Spring – The season of color in Lake County brings a wide variety of events and festivals. The Mount Dora Arts Festival transforms downtown into an outdoor gallery of paintings, sculptures, and crafts with hundreds of local artists. Minneola’s Bluegrass & Blues Festival combines live performances, food trucks, and lakeside dancing, creating a perfect weekend getaway. Many parks also host nature walks, flower shows, and spring markets celebrating Florida’s blooming landscapes.
2. ☀️ Summer – Warm weather in Lake County means outdoor excitement. The July 4th fireworks displays in Leesburg and Clermont light up the night sky over the lakes, drawing crowds for parades, live bands, and waterfront picnics. Summer also brings free outdoor movie nights, family fishing tournaments, and local farmers’ markets bursting with fresh produce. Lakefront concerts and food festivals keep the weekends full of energy and community spirit.
3. 🍂 Fall – The fall season ushers in cool breezes and cozy celebrations. The Mount Dora Craft Fair fills the streets with artisans, handmade goods, and food stalls, while the Amber Brooke Fall Festival delights families with corn mazes, hayrides, and pumpkin-themed treats. The Lake County Fair features carnival rides, livestock shows, and classic Southern cooking. Halloween events, Oktoberfest celebrations, and vintage car shows make autumn one of the most festive times of year.
4. 🎄 Winter – The holiday season in Lake County glows with warmth and tradition. The Mount Dora Christmas Walk transforms the town into a winter wonderland of lights, music, and laughter. Light Up Clermont brings tree lighting ceremonies and parades, while the Holiday Boat Parade decorates the lakes with shimmering vessels sailing under the stars. Visitors can enjoy seasonal concerts, local craft bazaars, and cozy cafés serving festive treats, creating the perfect small-town holiday experience.

✨ Unique Experiences

1. 🎈 Hot Air Balloon Rides (Clermont) – See Lake County’s rolling hills and lakes from above with a sunrise balloon ride—one of the most memorable experiences in Central Florida. The flight typically begins before dawn, allowing guests to watch the world awaken from a peaceful bird’s-eye perspective. The serene silence at altitude is only interrupted by the occasional roar of the balloon’s burner, creating a breathtaking contrast against the glowing morning sky. After landing, guests often enjoy a celebratory champagne toast and receive flight certificates as souvenirs. Operators like Orlando Balloon Rides and Bob’s Balloons are well-reviewed and operate year-round, weather permitting.
2. 🛩️ Seaplane Tours (Tavares) – Take off and land on water for a bird’s-eye view of the Harris Chain of Lakes. These tours range from short 15-minute scenic flights to extended aerial safaris covering the surrounding towns and forests. Pilots narrate points of interest, from the Mount Dora lighthouse to hidden canals lined with cypress trees. Couples can book romantic sunset flights, and adventure seekers can opt for “touch-and-go” landings on remote lakes. The experience blends the thrill of flight with the tranquility of Lake County’s natural beauty, making it one of the area’s signature attractions.
3. 🚤 CatBoat Adventures (Mount Dora) – Pilot your own two-person mini catamaran through the Dora Canal for a fun, fast-paced lake tour. Guided excursions teach you how to navigate these nimble boats safely, then lead you through winding waterways shaded by moss-covered cypress trees. Along the route, you might encounter playful otters, elegant herons, and the occasional alligator basking on the banks. The combination of speed, nature, and scenery makes it a thrilling way to experience Lake Dora and its historic canal system. Tours are offered daily, and no prior boating experience is necessary.
4. 🍇 Winery and Farm Tours – Beyond Lakeridge Winery, local farms and vineyards across Lake County offer immersive agri-tourism experiences. Visitors can stroll through citrus groves, pick their own fruit, and learn about Florida’s unique grape varieties. Many venues feature farm-to-table cafes serving dishes made from locally sourced produce and wines crafted on-site. Some farms host harvest festivals, live music events, and seasonal dinners under the stars. For families, U-pick farms provide a fun and educational way to connect with nature while supporting local agriculture. These tours highlight the region’s deep farming heritage and commitment to sustainability.

🗺️ Plan Your Visit

Lake County, Florida, offers the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and small-town hospitality. Whether you’re sipping wine in Clermont, hiking forest trails in Tavares, or browsing boutiques in Mount Dora, this scenic region captures the best of authentic Florida.

💡 Tip: For up-to-date information on festivals, events, and park conditions, visit the Lake County Tourism website or local visitor centers before your trip.