Last Updated on April 12, 2024
Looking for things to do in Tavares, FL? Tavares is a great place in Central Florida with plenty of fun to be found.
Tavares is located approximately 40 miles northeast of Orlando, approximately 40 miles southwest of Ocala, and only 5 miles west of downtown Mount Dora. The city of Tavares is known as America’s Seaplane City because of its public-use seaplane base.
Tavares is also known for its beautiful lake views of nearby lakes: Lake Dora, Lake Harris, and Lake Eustis, amongst others.
Visiting Tavares, Florida
If you are planning a trip to the area and looking for ideas, these are some of the top things to do in Tavares FL. From parks to seaplanes to gardens and museums, check out all the best places you can visit on a trip to this charming city.
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Wooton Park
Wooton Park is a 6-acre park in Tavares with plenty of things to do. The lakeside park provides great views of Lake Dora and plenty of picnic areas.
The playground and splash park is a popular location for children. Amenities include public restrooms, a boat ramp, kayak rentals, and more.
An onsite prop shop sells snacks and souvenirs while acting as the airport terminal for the Tavares Seaplane Base.
Wooton Park is open daily. For more information, visit the official Wooton Park website.
Wooten Park Address: 100 E Ruby St, Tavares, FL 32278
Lake County Museum of Art
Lake County Museum of Art is a nonprofit art museum and community art center. The community center serves the Lake County area. Located in downtown Tavares, the art museum has a collection of exhibitions on display.
They also offer classes and workshops where students of all ages can sign up to learn about different art media and techniques with hands-on projects.
Lake County Museum of Art is open Thursday through Saturday from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm. The museum is free to the public, with donations accepted instead of an admission fee.
For more information, visit the official Lake County Museum of Art website.
Lake County Museum of Art Address: 213 W Ruby St, Tavares, FL 32778
Jones Brothers Air and Seaplane Adventures
Jones Brothers Air and Seaplane Adventures is a Tavares company that offers the experience of a lifetime with their seaplane tours.
They offer a variety of tours, making it the perfect place for a 15-minute seaplane ride over Mount Dora and Tavares, two-and-a-half-hour excursions, or day trips to popular destinations like Clearwater Beach and Key West.
Jones Brothers Air & Seaplane Adventures hours and pricing depend on tour availability and selection.
For more information, visit the official Jones Brothers Air and Seaplane Adventures website.
Jones Brothers Air & Seaplane Adventures Address: 210 E Ruby St, Tavares, FL 32778
Discovery Gardens
Discovery Gardens is a collection of gardens located at the UF/IFAS Lake County Extension Center in Tavares. The botanical gardens include three and a half acres of themed gardens. Discovery Gardens shows different gardening aspects of Central Florida with over 700 plants.
Enjoy self-guided tours of this perfect place to learn about gardening and plant conservation.
Discovery Gardens is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, as well as the third Saturday of each month from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. There is no admission charge to enter the gardens.
For more information, visit the official Discovery Gardens website.
Discovery Garden Address: 1951 Woodlea Rd, Tavares, FL 32778
Tavares Nature Park
Tavares Nature Park is another great park to check out in Tavares. Located about 2 miles southwest of Wooton Park, Tavares Nature Park is one of the best spots in the area for being amongst nature and birdwatching.
Walk that 2-mile natural trail loop through grassy fields, open pine grooves, and surrounding area wetlands. The park includes restrooms, benches, and a picnic table.
Tavares Nature Park is open daily.
For more information, visit the official Tavares Nature Park website.
Tavares Nature Park Address: Milwaukee Ave, Tavares, FL 32778
Lake County Historical Museum
Lake County Historical Museum is located on the first floor of the historic Lake County Courthouse in Tavares. Focused on preserving Lake County’s history, the museum contains artifacts and exhibits that tell a story about local history, including the people and places that have existed in the area.
Lake County Historical Museum is open Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. This is a free-admission museum.
For more information, visit the official Lake County Historical Museum website.
Lake County Historical Museum Address: 317 W Main St, Tavares, FL 32778
Through the Years Vintage Market
Through the Years Vintage Market is a vintage market located in downtown Tavares. You will want to visit Through the Years Vintage Market if you are a fan of antique shops.
Whether you are looking for mid-century glassware or vintage seasonal décor, Through the Years might just be a great option for you.
Through the Years Vintage Market is open Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.
For more information, visit the official Through the Years Vintage Market website.
Through The Years Vintage Market: 102 E Alfred St, Tavares, FL 32778
The Deli Llama
The Deli Llama is a great place if you are looking for a fun place to grab a coffee or a delicious sandwich. The food is terrific, the owner is super friendly, and the decor is retro.
Make sure to try the Goat cheese toast or the Cuban sandwich. All of the salads are fresh and bountiful. They also have a great selection of craft sodas.
The Deli Llama is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and Saturday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. They are closed on Sundays. You can also place your order online.
For more information, visit the official Deli Llama website.
The Deli Llama Address: 124 E Alfred St, Tavares, FL 32778
The Dora Queen
Dora Queen is a luxury 80-foot New Orleans-style paddlewheel boat. Dora Queen offers 2-hour cruises, including a phenomenal sunset cruise.
Be sure to check their calendar for a list of events. The Dora Queen also serves as a unique venue for private events.
For more information, visit the official Dora Queen website.
The Dora Queen Address: 375 S Sinclair Ave, Tavares, FL 32778
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