Things To Do
in Tavares
Tavares is a charming city located in Lake County, Florida, United States. It is known for its picturesque waterfront area along Lake Dora, offering scenic views and recreational activities such as boating and fishing. The city has a historic downtown district with shops, restaurants, and events that attract visitors throughout the year.
Tavares is also home to the seaplane base, providing a unique and exciting experience for aviation enthusiasts.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Wooton Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk along the waterfront. Grab breakfast at a local café, enjoying the serene view of the lake.
Visit the Tavares Historical Museum to learn about the rich history of the area. Afterward, take a scenic boat ride on Lake Dora.
Dine at a waterfront restaurant, savoring fresh seafood. Cap off your day with a leisurely stroll at sunset along the park.
Begin your morning with a hike in the nearby Lake Griffin State Park, where you can enjoy the diverse flora and fauna. Don't forget to pack a picnic for later.
After your hike, head to a local spot for lunch, then explore the park further by renting a kayak. Experience nature up close as you paddle through the calm waters.
Return to Tavares for dinner, sampling some of the best local cuisine. Enjoy an evening walk near the lake, taking in the tranquility of the area.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic natural beauty with lakes and green spaces.
- Friendly community atmosphere with a small-town feel.
- Variety of outdoor recreational activities available, such as fishing and boating.
- Growing local economy with increasing job opportunities.
- Family-friendly environment with good schools and community events.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Public transportation may be lacking, necessitating a car for travel.
- Hot and humid summers can be uncomfortable for some residents.
- Potential for hurricane impact due to location in Florida.
- Higher property insurance rates because of flood risks in certain areas.
Best Activities in Tavares
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the natural beauty along the trails surrounding Lake Louise, offering scenic views and a chance to observe local wildlife.
Enjoy fishing on Lake Dora, known for its abundant freshwater fish, including bass and crappie. Perfect for both experienced anglers and beginners.
Rent a kayak to paddle through the beautiful Harris Chain of Lakes, where you can explore the waterways and take in the serene atmosphere.
Ride your bike along this scenic multi-use trail, which connects Tavares to nearby towns while enjoying picturesque views of the local landscape.
Spend a lovely day enjoying a picnic at Wooton Park, which offers grassy areas, picnic tables, and picturesque lake views.
Visit the Tavares Wildlife Preserve for a birdwatching experience, where you might spot various native bird species in their natural habitat.
Take to the waters of Lake Harris for sailing, with opportunities for both leisurely cruises and more challenging outings.
Watch seaplanes take off and land at the Tavares Seaplane Base, and enjoy a meal at the on-site café while soaking in the unique atmosphere.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tavares with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tavares
Visit one of these nice places.
Located at the heart of downtown Tavares, Wooton Park offers beautiful views of Lake Dora and the seaplanes taking off and landing. It's a great spot for photo opportunities and enjoying the waterfront.
This unique location provides the opportunity to capture stunning photos of seaplanes against the scenic backdrop of Lake Dora. The seaplane base offers a one-of-a-kind perspective for photography enthusiasts.
Just a short drive from Tavares, the town of Mount Dora offers elevated views and charming, picturesque settings that are perfect for photo opportunities. Mount Dora's hilly terrain and historic downtown area provide numerous vantage points for capturing stunning vistas.
Food in Tavares
Tavares Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Florida delicacy, gator bites are tender pieces of alligator meat breaded and fried to crispy perfection. Try them at Tiki West Raw Bar and Grill or Shrimp Shack.
Must-Try!
Indulge in the tangy sweetness of a traditional Key Lime Pie, a classic Floridian dessert. Sample a delectable slice at Lake Dora Sushi and Sake or The Hideaway.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tavares better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the Tavares Farmer's Market for an array of fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats. Don't miss the diverse selection of food trucks offering everything from BBQ ribs to gourmet tacos.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Residents of Tavares appreciate politeness. Use 'please', 'thank you', and greet people with a friendly smile. Being courteous can go a long way in making a positive impression.
Tavares has a rich history and traditions, especially related to its waterfront and community events. Engage respectfully with local customs and participate in community events to show appreciation for the culture.
Dress codes can vary depending on the occasion. While casual wear is common, it's advisable to dress more formally for community gatherings or events. Always consider the setting when choosing your attire.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tavares with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tavares
Ensure a smooth experience
In Tavares, as in much of the United States, tipping is a common practice in the service industry. It is customary to tip servers in restaurants 15-20% of the total bill before tax. For other services like haircuts, taxi rides, or food delivery, a tip of 10-20% is typically expected. Tips are considered an important part of the income for service workers and reflect the quality of service provided.
Payment practices in Tavares predominantly involve credit and debit card transactions, though cash is also accepted in many establishments. Mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay have become increasingly popular. Restaurants and retail stores usually have various payment methods available to ensure convenience for customers.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tavares.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Tavares as the weather is mild and the city comes to life with blooming flowers and vibrant greenery. It's a wonderful time for outdoor activities and events.
Summer in Tavares brings hot and humid weather, perfect for enjoying the numerous water activities on the surrounding lakes. The town hosts various festivals and events during this season.
Fall is a beautiful time in Tavares when the foliage turns into stunning autumn colors, creating picturesque landscapes. The weather is pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor excursions.
Winter in Tavares is comparatively mild, with occasional cold fronts. Holiday events, boat parades, and festive decorations make it a charming time to visit the town.
Tavares at Night
Hiking in Tavares
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful park featuring multiple trails through pine forests, wetlands, and along lakes, perfect for hiking and nature observing.
A scenic trail that offers a blend of hiking and exploring the historical sites of Mount Dora, with picturesque views along the way.
Known for its stunning springs and diverse wildlife, this park offers several hiking trails that wind through lush landscapes.
Features a trail that circles beautiful lakes, providing a serene hiking experience surrounded by nature.
A more rugged hiking experience with trails that lead through swamps and uplands, showcasing Florida's natural beauty.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tavares through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tavares by plane.
The primary airport serving the Orlando area, located about 45 miles from Tavares.
An important international airport located approximately 75 miles from Tavares.
A major airport situated around 120 miles northeast of Tavares.
One of the busiest airports in the U.S., located about 250 miles south of Tavares.
Located about 260 miles south, this airport serves the Greater Fort Lauderdale area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Tavares, comprising the majority of the population.
A significant demographic group, often including individuals of Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, and other Latin American descents.
A notable demographic group within Tavares, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
A smaller demographic group, including individuals of Asian descent such as Indian, Chinese, and Filipino.
A minimal demographic group but part of the historical cultural tapestry of the region.
Individuals identifying as belonging to other racial categories or mixed race.
The Soul of Tavares
Discover the essence of Tavares through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played on a court where two teams try to score points by throwing a ball through the opposing team's hoop.
A widely followed sport in Tavares, often played at high school and community levels, involving two teams competing to score points by advancing a ball into the opposing team's end zone.
A favorite pastime in Tavares, involving two teams taking turns to bat and field, with the goal of scoring runs.
An increasingly popular sport in the area, played by teams of eleven players who aim to score by getting a ball into the opposing team's goal.
Similar to baseball but played with a larger ball on a smaller field, softballs are popular among recreational leagues in Tavares.
A popular individual or doubles sport played on a court, where players hit a felt-covered rubber ball over a net into the opponent's area.
With abundant lakes around Tavares, fishing is a favored outdoor activity for both recreational and competitive anglers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tavares.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Various eateries in Tavares, such as Shiva Indian Restaurant and BTW (Burgers, Tacos, and Waffles), cater to vegetarians and vegans with flavorful plant-based dishes.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can delight in gluten-free choices at Al's Landing and Lake Dora Sushi and Sake, known for accommodating dietary needs without compromising on taste.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tavares with these cultural adventures.