Beaches, adventure, interactive learning, sophisticated dining - whatever your heart desires is easily fulfilled with a quick day trip from centrally located Lakes of Mount Dora . This award-winning, 55+ community from Medallion Home is ideally located in central Florida, near one of the most charming small towns in the country, yet a short drive to any of the Sunshine State’s main beaches and attractions. Pack some snacks, grab your sun hat, and let’s explore a few of the best day trips from Lakes of Mount Dora!
Cape Canaveral: 1 hr 30 min Away
Whether you’re venturing out with family or you're just looking for an interesting solo trip, Cape Canaveral never disappoints. This is home to the Kennedy Space Center , which serves as the hub of the nation's human space program. The center is also home to the Visitor Complex, which is open to the public and houses a variety of interactive learning exhibits. Planet Play, Astronaut Training Experience, and Race to the Moon will amaze and delight grandkids and adults alike. After a day of spacing out, head over to Canaveral National Seashore to continue the learning - there are 24 miles of undeveloped beaches with hundreds of native bird and plant species.
New Smyrna Beach: 1 hr 10 min Away
When you're ready to hit the beach, New Smyrna Beach is just up the coast from Cape Canaveral. This charming beach town is known for its local culture, food, and art scene, as well as its pristine sand. It's also a big hit with surfers, who are fun to watch from the shoreline. If you want in on the action, local shops rent special boards for beginners and provide lessons with experienced surfers.
Disney World: 45 min Away
Ah... the magic of Disney! Whether you are five or 55, there's something for everyone at Disney World . You can certainly enjoy the four theme parks and 49 rides if you'd like, but if you want a more relaxing experience, opt for the slower, longer, and less bumpy attractions like Jungle Cruise, Liberty Square Riverboat, Mickey’s PhilharMagic, Walt Disney World Railroad, or even some of the interesting films at Epcot. Or, drop the grandkids (and their parents) off at Disney World and head over to Disney Springs , a themed retail, dining, and entertainment destination inspired by Florida's waterfront towns and historic architecture.
Town of Mount Dora - Two lefts and You're There!
Quaint, downtown Mount Dora is literally just two lefts from the Lakes of Mount Dora community! There's so much to do in this area that it's worthy of a day trip - even if it is just 10 minutes down the road. Here are some of our favorites:
Take a Boat Tour of Lake Dora
Lake Dora is 5,000 acres of incredibly beautiful, natural Florida habitat. There are a handful of ways to experience it, directly on the water itself. Cat Boat Tours offers 2-hour narrated tours to guests on individual, motorized, 2-person catamarans. One of most picturesque areas is the Dora Jungle Canal, which connects Lake Dora to Lake Eustice, and was once called "The Most Beautiful Mile in the World."
Other boat options include the more traditional pontoon boat tour , where you can sit back and relax, or you're free to put in your own kayak or paddle boat to go exploring.
Stroll Along the Boardwalk
Palm Island Park , which sits at the edge of Lake Dora, is an 8-acre natural preservation area and premier spot for bird-watching. Stroll along the wooden boardwalk for up-close views of native trees and plants, or gaze out onto the lake to catch sight of alligators, turtles, and other wildlife.
Enjoy Wine, Beer Food Tastings
In Mount Dora, there are plenty of opportunities to sit back on a patio, enjoy the warm breeze, and sip on fine wine and craft beer. If you can’t choose just one place, you can opt for a guided food and wine tour that will take you through tree-lined streets to the best restaurants, wineries, bars in the area.
When you live at Lakes of Mount Dora in central Florida, you never have to wonder what’s next. While we think the best of the state is right here in Mount Dora, you’re never far from a new adventure. To learn more about our floor plans or move-in ready homes , please contact us at 914-214-9857.
