Last Updated on March 31, 2024
Did you know one of Central Florida’s first attractions was the Florida Citrus Tower in Clermont?
The Citrus Tower is an incredible monument commemorating Florida’s citrus industry and groves.
On a visit to the impressive Citrus Tower today, you can learn about Florida’s history, enjoy a citrus drink or coffee and a muffin or cookie, and see Central Florida from a totally different perspective.
The endless miles of groves are gone due to the growth and development in the area,
However, the 360-degree view when visitors step out of the elevator and onto the observation deck is hard to compete with. It’s something locals and visitors should put on their bucket list.
Over the years, there have been multiple changes in ownership.
Like many other Florida roadside attractions, the Citrus Tower struggled after the large theme parks started to surface in Central Florida.
It still takes a backseat to other places to visit in the general area, when it deserves to be at the top of those types of lists.
In fact, Lake County offers a lot of Old Florida experiences. It’s home to charming destinations like Mount Dora, Tavares, Leesburg, and, of course, Clermont.
History of the Citrus Tower
The Citrus Tower in Clermont was built in 1956 on one of the highest hills in Florida’s ridge section.
Conceptualized by Ralph Harper, he enlisted A.W. Thacker and F. J. Toole, and together they founded the Florida Towers Corporation.
It took the architectural design of Thomas A. Russell, close to 250 investors, and five million pounds of concrete to make the Citrus Tower a reality.
Initially, the tower was going to be 75 feet high. At completion, it was 226 feet tall (i.e., 22 stories). The tip of the highest antenna is 500 feet above sea level!
When the tower first opened, it had three observation levels. An extensive Florida state floral map was carved in the groves for many years and could be observed from the tower.
During its first year, the Citrus Tower attracted more than 500,000 visitors.
United States Department of Agriculture Facts
According to the United States Department of Agriculture, when the Florida Citrus Tower opened, there were 522,700 acres of citrus groves in Florida.
Those groves produced 69% of the citrus in the United States and 64% of the total acreage in the United States.
Other Businesses at the Citrus Tower
In 1959, amphibious DUCK Boats (land and water tours) traveled around the groves and lakes.
In the early 1960’s Wometco Enterprises, who also owned the Miami Seaquarium, purchased the Tower.
By the 1970s, the tower’s base included a restaurant, gift shop, circus arcade, candy kitchen, citrus shop, U.S. post office, glass-blowing artists, and even a reptile show.
The Citrus Tower in 2024
In September 2022, a religious group took ownership of this historic monument and began renovating it to keep yesteryear’s nostalgic feel.
The Citrus Tower and the Citrus Tower commercial business center were sold to Simchat Torah Beit Midrash (STBM), led by Rabbi Ralph and Maureen Messer, for $3.3 million.
On May 28, 2023, the new owners reopened the Citrus Tower to visitors by holding a ribbon cutting.
The new owners have done a lot of renovations so far. However, they need help. They are doing a Go Fund Me campaign to cover the costs of replacing the roof and back area of the attraction that have suffered wear and tear over the years.
New Citrus Tower Lobby
When you first enter the Citrus Tower lobby, you’ll see and smell the pleasant aroma of the Citrus Tower Coffee Shop.
They have a variety of delicious citrus-themed drinks, coffee, and tea as well as various baked goods.
Citrus Tower Coffee Shop is located on the ground level of the Citrus Tower. Additionally, there are multiple comfortable lounging areas in the tower lobby for relaxing before you head up the tower.
If you’re a fan of Florida souvenirs, you’ll be happy to know they have some cool merchandise you may purchase.
When you’re ready to go to the top of the tower, you’ll be greeted by a hand-painted elevator mural featuring oranges.
From there, you’ll take your elevator ride up 22 stories to the observation deck. It takes about 40 seconds to reach the top.
Citrus Tower – Observation Deck
Because of the glass-enclosed observation deck, visitors can still enjoy a panoramic view of Central Florida.
In addition, you can see the rolling hills of Florida’s ridge section and lots of spring-fed lakes (try to ignore the traffic on the roads).
The observation deck includes signs of nearby sights and the distance from the tower.
Visitors are welcome to stay and observe the sights from the building without any time limits.
Citrus Tower – Ticket Information
Tickets to the top of the Citrus Tower are priced as follows:
- Adults: $11.00
- Children (3-12): $7.00
- Senior (55+), AAA, First Responder, Nurse, Military: $10.00
- Group Rate: 20% OFF 20 people or more
- Annual Passes: Available for Florida Residents (include unlimited visits for the pass holder & a guest)
TIP: Check Groupon first. They often offer day passes for a few dollars cheaper.
Hours:
- Monday – Thursday, 7 am – 10 pm
- Friday & Saturday, 7 am – 11 pm
- Sunday, 11 am – 10 pm
The Citrus Tower Address: 141 North Hwy 27, Clermont, FL 34711
Looking for more information? Visit The Citrus Tower’s official website.
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