Florida is better known as “The Sunshine State,” and it is not for less, because this state offers a tropical and colorful experience for all its visitors. Likewise, it provides a large number of attractions and points of interest throughout its geography.
One of these places is Lake County, which over the years, has gained a special place within the preferences of tourists. As a curious fact, this county owes its name to a large number of lakes it has, about 1400 in total officially recognized. If you want an escape from the routine to a dream location, you may find a host of Vacation Hotspots in Lake County.
Why travel to Lake County?
Florida offers many tourism options, such as large shopping centers, long beaches with the bluest waters that can be found, gastronomy, art, theme parks, aquariums, and much more. Without a doubt, all this is striking, but it lacks a touch of special.
This is where Lake County comes in, a magical place found in the center of the State of Florida. On this site, there are options for fun in nature for everyone. And it is that right there lies the magic of here, in being able to connect with nature and relax without losing the comforts of modern civilization.
In Lake County, you can get to know rural Florida, which is undoubtedly exciting since you can find a perfect refuge to escape from the routine, and its proximity to Orlando makes it the best lodging option.
This is because Lake County has many hotel options at great prices, and being just over 30 minutes from Orlando, you can visit the great amusement parks during your stay in this place.
And if you don’t want to go to Orlando or Miami, it doesn’t matter, since this county has many attractions to offer, and here we present some of the most important that you can enjoy alone or with your family.
Top 5 Vacation Hotspots in Lake County
Lake County has several visitor attractions throughout the county, so you might find something to suit your ideal of the perfect vacation hassle-free. These are some of the most important Vacation Hotspots in Lake county.
1) Mount Dora
Mount Dora is located next to Lake Dora. This city offers a great dose of culture to tourists, as it has centuries of history condensed in its streets. Among the attractions of the place, its historical sites stand out, such as:
- Blandford
- Lakeside Inn
- The Donnelly House
- The Old Mount Dora A. C. L. Railroad Station
- Whitherspoon Lodge No. 111
Likewise, in Mount Dora, there are several museums where you can learn more about local and national history, as well as about art. Among the most important museums is the Mount Dora History Museum, where is exhibited some activities of this city from 1880 to 1930 in different exhibitions. This museum is a project planned and designed by the Mount Dora Historical Society.
Another important museum is the Modernism Museum, which focuses on a form of modernism known as the “Studio Arts Movement,” which is responsible for fusing crafts with the art of the highest level.
But this is not the only place where art displays are to be found, as the Mount Dora Center for the Arts typically has many art exhibits in its galleries, as well as educational workshops to learn more about the subject.
Likewise, Mount Dora has a large number of nature reserves and parks, such as Gilbert Park or Annie Donnelly Park, where anyone can simply relax and walk while enjoying the amenities of the place.
2) Clermont
Clermont is a reasonably quiet place to spend your holidays. Here you will find high-quality hotels, shopping malls, art galleries, fine restaurants, and the Historic Villages, with iconic landmarks like the Townsend House, which was home to the area’s first African-American couple.
But if there is one place that stands out in this city, it is the Lakeridge Winery. This is one of the top Vacation Hotspots in Lake County, as taking a wine tour is always an enriching experience, whether done alone or with a partner. Lakeridge Winery is a winery located in the city of Clermont and consists of a truly modern building that houses the largest winery in the entire state.
Here you can take tours for free, where you can not only learn more about the vineyards and the varieties of grapes that are harvested and processed on-site, but you can also attend a free tasting with master sommeliers.
If you liked one of the wines a lot, you could buy it without problems in the store they have available to the public. But not only are their good wines and a pleasant walk in this place but every month, various events and festivals are held, where you can enjoy good music, delicious food, art, and much more.
3) Tavares
This city has a very particular nickname, which is “America’s Seaplane City,” and this is because it has a peculiar Seaplane Base. Tavares is a place focused on entertainment, so it offers tourists and locals a wide variety of restaurants, music clubs, and pubs of international stature.
Another essential place to visit in this city, if you are traveling with children, is the Children’s Splash Park. This park is usually open during the summer, and it is a reasonably accessible attraction. In this water park, there are generally many amenities that allow you to have fun in a healthy way, including the seaplane theme, which combines wonderfully with the nickname of the city.
Likewise, some restaurants are highly appreciated by both tourists and city dwellers, such as the Hurricane Dockside Grill, which has an excellent family atmosphere, traditional food that satisfies any appetite no matter how demanding it may be, a great view, and quality service. which makes you feel at home. Here there are usually musical presentations at nightfall, so it is perfect for spending a relaxed moment.
Another place not to be missed in Tavares is the Central Florida Railroad Museum, especially if you are a train enthusiast. Here you can see different exhibits with photographs of the time, special equipment, and the stories of former employees of the company.
Finally, if you dare to visit Tavares, you cannot miss Discovery Gardens, because here you can find a wide variety of flowers, trees, and plants, both native and exotic, distributed in more than 20 thematic areas. You will be able to learn a lot about all of nature while you delight in the visual spectacle.
4) Howey-in-the-Hills
If what you are looking for on your vacation is a secluded place where you can simply relax, then Howey in the Hills will become one of the best Vacation Hotspots in Lake County for you. This city is secluded, quiet, and relatively safe.
Its architecture is mostly classical, since the styles of the 1920s predominate, successfully incorporating more modern buildings, achieving an exquisite fusion at a visual level. But this place is not only about beautiful buildings, but also about entertainment.
Here it is possible to find country clubs with delicious food, enjoy a few golf games, relax at their resorts, go fishing or even go on boat trips, and this city is one of the best ecotourism destinations in the whole State.
The natural beauty of the area is incomparable and breathtaking for many since, in places like Griffin Waterfront Park, nature is preserved at its optimum point, as well as in the Sara Maude Nature Reserve.
And last but not least, Howey in the Hills is an hour away from Orlando, so you could easily go to the major theme parks in the State and return to relax in the country atmosphere of this city before dark.
If you come to this city, you can hire a guide who will take you to know more details about the architectural jewels of this place, like the Howey House, how they are kept in good condition and, in this way, you can learn more about the local history.
5) Leesburg
Leesburg is a small town located on the shores of Lake Harris, and it is one of the best vacation spots for those who simply love nature. In this place, it is possible to enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities, which helps to relax and get out of everyday life without problems.
These activities in nature include visits to nature reserves, exploration and activities in the lakes, discover more about conservation areas, and much more. For example, Lake Harris, one of the largest in the area, is a very popular place for tourists and locals. Here you can take boat rides, as well as canoes or even kayaks. But if you don’t want to get into the water, you can take walks around the lake and enjoy the scenery and fresh air.
Near this lake, you can find the Emeralda Marsh Conservation Area; taking an excursion in this protected area can become a unique experience, since a large number of wildlife species reside here, as well as typical flora of the region. Although it is relatively close to the city, coming to this place will allow you to feel that you are completely disconnected from civilization.
If you are interested in history, the Leesburg Heritage Museum is a must-see. However, we have still not seen it. Last time we were there they were having a plumbing issue and a bunch of Lake County Plumbers were on the scene. This museum is small, but it has many objects related to the local heritage and its history, which dates back to the 19th century, so there is much to learn if you visit. Similarly, the Paquette’s Historical Farmall Tractor Museum can teach you a lot about the history of local and national agriculture, as well as the evolution of this area so crucial to the development of American society.
Lastly, you can’t miss the Venetian Garden Parks, which is one of the most popular and busiest spots in the entire city. You can walk and relax, crossing its many bridges, which serve to interconnect the different islands located within the park, which is undoubtedly a relaxing experience.
What should you be aware of before going to any of the Vacation Hotspots in Lake County?
Lake County is a beautiful place where you can experience the benefits of Mother Nature, but without straying completely from civilization. If you want to get the most out of your trip, these are some tips that can be very useful:
When to go to Lake County?
Lake County is located in Florida, which means that its climate is mostly warm and sunny throughout the year. However it can be very hot and humid at some times. This county receives its largest number of visitors during the summer, because the activities that take place in the many lakes in the area.
If you visit Lake City during the summer, be sure to make your reservations early and leave early for the places you plan to visit, as they can be crowded with other tourists early, which will negatively affect your experience.
However, it is also advisable to visit the area in spring. It tends to have fewer tourists (which implies slightly lower prices), and a more significant number of wildflowers are usually observed in the surroundings.
How many days do I need for my Lake County vacation?
This can vary between people, but for most tourists, Lake City is the perfect place for weekend getaways, allowing you to relax for a couple of days and then return to your daily routine with recharged batteries.
How do you know which are the best local attractions?
There is a lot of information online about the tourist attractions in the different Vacation Hotspots in Lake County, which can be confusing, so it is always advisable to ask locals or hotel staff about the best places to visit.
Most of the people in this area are usually very friendly and are more than willing to guide you if necessary, so you have nothing to fear if you need to ask any questions.
The best trip of your life may be to Lake County
If you feel burdened by work and the stresses of modern life, Lake County may be the solution to all your problems, as it is the perfect place to get away from it all and disconnect. This county has from unique landscapes and parks to enriching experiences such as visits to museums or vineyards, so you should give yourself this vacation as soon as possible; believe me, you will appreciate it forever.