DayVenture 44: Mount Dora
🍊 Get Lost Lakeside in Mount Dora
This felt like a good day for a gentle wander.
One of Central Florida’s most lovable lake towns — filled with cobblestone charm, handcrafted goods, and scenic pauses by the water.
We moved slowly, lingered where it felt right, and ended with a bowl of chowder that warmed us from the inside out.
Arrival Into Downtown Mt Dora
For those of you who’ve lived here long enough, visiting Mt. Dora used to be a staycation in of itself – before the 429 Connector, a day in Mt Dora would cost you most of your daylight. Now, one can “breeze” in for lunch and make it back to Orlando before dark. And breeze in you should.
Once you take the beloved turn on to Donnelly Street, park in one of the free public lots. You may have to fight off a few pickleball professionals. Be sure to engage your parking brake (you’ll figure why) and let yourself transition into small-town mode. Rule No. 1 – Mount Dora rewards people who meandre. Mind the Segways.
Vibe-setter: notice the historic porches, the antique shop windows, and how the lake breeze manages to find its way between buildings.
🛍️ First Stop: Boutique + Antique Browsing
Pick one or try a cluster — all walkable:
🎨 Under the Cherry Blossoms
Handmade soaps, local art, and small gifts with a whimsical, cottagecore feel. The ceiling adds a whimsical delight.
🕰️ Village Antique Mall
A treasure trove for vintage Florida finds — postcards, citrus crates, mid-century pieces, and oddities.
🕯️ Barrel of Books & Games
A charming indie bookshop perfect for picking up a Florida author or a new board game for family night.
Insider tip: Many shops offer free samples (fudge, oils, dips). Say yes.
🍲 Lunch: Tony’s Chowder House
Location: Right in downtown — no driving needed.
Why here: It’s a New England–meets–Florida hybrid spot and one of the coziest bowls of chowder in all of Central Florida.
Order recommendations:
- Triple Crown Clam Chowder (award-winning, rich, perfectly seasoned)
- Blackened Shrimp Roll if you want something handheld
- Corn fritters with powdered sugar (yes, they’re basically dessert before dessert)
Citrus Soul Moment: Sit outside if the weather’s breezy — you can hear the town hum and catch that faint lake smell.
🌿 Stroll + Lakeside Loop
After lunch, walk down to:
📍 Grantham Point Park + The Mount Dora Lighthouse
A tiny lighthouse, a perfect photo spot, and the best breeze in town.
Follow the short lakeside path, watch the sailboats drift, and let the day slow down.
Optional mini-activity:
The Palm Island Boardwalk is a 10–12 minute walk from the lighthouse — a shady, nature-filled boardwalk over Lake Dora’s wetlands.
🧁 Sweet Ending: Choose Your Treat
Two great Mount Dora options:
🍦 Scoops on 5th
Classic ice cream, local flavors, and a small-town Americana vibe.
🍰 The Village Coffee Pot
Coffee + ice cream + homemade fudge.
Get a fudge square to take home — it travels well.
🎁 Local Mentions for an Extended Afternoon:
- Mount Dora Olive Oil Company – free tastings, great for “I live here now” pantry upgrades.
- Serendipity Brews – for craft beer, cozy couches, and local music later in the day.
- Rusty Anchor Boat Tour – 2pm tours available most weekends if you want to extend the adventure.
You’ve touched the heart of Mount Dora: food you’ll crave again, lakeside air, and a town that feels like an exhale.
