Tavares, a charming town in Florida, offers an enchanting experience for travelers. Surrounded by three lakes—Lake Harris, Lake Dora, and Lake Eustis—this landlocked city feels like an island paradise. Known as "America’s Seaplane City," Tavares provides easy access to various destinations via seaplane. Visitors can enjoy flights over the Everglades or take short trips to Key West. The spring season is ideal for exploring both the archipelago and Central Florida. While accommodations may not match Orlando's luxury resorts, they offer a cozy alternative. Temperatures typically hover around 78°F, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
Jones Brothers & Co., a local air travel company, offers exciting day trips to places such as Clearwater/St. Pete and Cedar Key. Adventure seekers can enjoy historic tours to DeLeon Springs, paddleboarding on nearby lakes, romantic dinners with lakefront views, and even bar-hopping excursions. For those who prefer staying grounded, Tavares boasts a vibrant shopping scene, cultural attractions, and scenic boat rides on Lake Dora. Whether flying high or staying low, Tavares promises unforgettable experiences.
Seaplane Adventures: Exploring Beyond Tavares
Tavares stands out as a hub for seaplane enthusiasts, offering thrilling aerial adventures across Florida. Travelers can explore iconic locations like Key West, the Gulf Coast, and DeLeon Springs through these unique flights. Each destination presents its own charm, from historical sites to natural wonders, creating memorable experiences for visitors.
The local aviation company, Jones Brothers & Co., plays a pivotal role in facilitating these journeys. Their offerings include day trips to Key West, where you can sip cocktails at historic bars, and flights to the Gulf Coast for beachside relaxation. Additionally, their historical tours to DeLeon Springs allow participants to enjoy breakfast while cooking pancakes on griddles embedded in tables. For shorter excursions, guests can opt for quick flights to nearby lakes for paddleboarding or kayaking. Romantic dinners with stunning lake views and group bar-hopping adventures further enhance the allure of seaplane travel. With nearly flawless reviews on Tripadvisor, these excursions consistently delight participants, proving that in Tavares, the sky truly is the limit.
Grounded Delights: Embracing Tavares' Terrestrial Charm
Beyond its seaplane fame, Tavares captivates visitors with its terrestrial attractions. Those preferring to keep their feet firmly planted can indulge in a variety of activities ranging from leisurely cruises to cultural explorations. This quaint town caters to diverse interests, ensuring everyone finds something enjoyable.
A highlight of Tavares’ ground-based offerings is the Dora Queen steamboat cruise. As twilight descends, passengers savor wine and charcuterie boards while enjoying live entertainment aboard this picturesque vessel navigating Lake Dora. Just a stone’s throw away lies Mount Dora, a creative haven boasting Lighthouse Park and numerous art galleries. Shoppers will revel in the town’s bustling flea markets, farmers’ markets, and boutique clothing stores. Cultural enthusiasts can catch performances by the Tavares Theatre Company or delve into local history at the Tavares History Museum. The Lake County Museum of Art adds another layer of artistic richness to the area. These varied options make Tavares an ideal destination for couples seeking romance, families looking for fun, or solo travelers craving adventure—all without ever leaving the ground.