Discover The Best Of Florida's Lakes
Explore the Top Attractions
Florida is home to numerous lakes that offer a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Lake Okeechobee, the largest lake in the state, is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and camping. Other popular lakes include Lake Kissimmee, Lake George, and Lake Tohopekaliga. These lakes offer opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and kayaking.
Uncover Hidden Gems
While Florida’s popular lakes attract many visitors, there are also hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Lake Eola in downtown Orlando is a picturesque spot that offers paddleboat rentals and a Sunday farmer’s market. Lake Monroe in Sanford is a great place to catch a sunset and enjoy a picnic.
Indulge in the Food Scene
Florida’s lakeside towns offer a variety of dining options, ranging from casual seafood shacks to upscale restaurants. In Mount Dora, you can grab a bite at the Lakeside Inn’s Tremain’s Lounge, which overlooks Lake Dora. In Winter Park, the lakeside restaurant The Boathouse serves fresh seafood and cocktails.
Get Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? There are plenty of affordable activities to enjoy around Florida’s lakes. Take a stroll around Lake Eola, rent a bike and explore the West Orange Trail, or pack a picnic and spend the day at Lake Louisa State Park.
Embark on Outdoor Adventures
Florida’s lakes offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Go fishing for bass in Lake Tohopekaliga, take a kayak tour of Lake Kissimmee, or hike the Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail. You can also go camping at many of the state parks located around Florida’s lakes.
Visit Historical Landmarks
Florida’s lakes have played an important role in the state’s history. Visit the Lake Okeechobee Battlefield Historic State Park, which commemorates a 19th-century battle between the Seminole Indians and U.S. soldiers. The Lakeside Inn in Mount Dora, which dates back to 1883, is also worth a visit.
Enjoy Family-Friendly Activities
Florida’s lakes are a great place to spend time with the whole family. Take a boat tour of the Winter Park chain of lakes, visit the Orlando Science Center’s Crosby Observatory, or go horseback riding at Lake Louisa State Park.
Experience Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures
If you’re looking for a unique adventure, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to be had around Florida’s lakes. Take a hot air balloon ride over Lake Dora, go on a guided nature walk at the Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge, or rent a pontoon boat and explore the St. Johns River.
Marvel at Natural Wonders
Florida’s lakes are home to a variety of natural wonders, from the crystal-clear waters of Blue Spring State Park to the towering cypress trees of Lake Jesup. Take a scenic drive along the Lake Wales Ridge or visit the historic Bok Tower Gardens, which overlooks Lake Wales.
Experience Vibrant Nightlife
Florida’s lakeside towns offer a vibrant nightlife scene. In downtown Orlando, you can catch a show at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts or enjoy a drink at the rooftop bar of the Grand Bohemian Hotel. In Mount Dora, you can listen to live music at the Lakeside Inn or grab a drink at the Goblin Market.
Shop at Local Markets
Florida’s lakeside towns are home to a variety of local markets and shops. Visit the Winter Park Farmers’ Market to pick up fresh produce and baked goods, or check out the shops and boutiques in downtown Mount Dora.
Relax on the Beaches and Mountains
Florida’s lakes may not have sandy beaches or towering mountains, but there are still plenty of places to relax and unwind. Visit Wekiwa Springs State Park to swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Wekiwa River, or take a scenic drive through the Ocala National Forest.
Immerse Yourself in the Culture
Florida’s lakeside towns offer a variety of cultural experiences. Take a walking tour of the historic neighborhoods in Winter Park, visit the Cornell Fine Arts Museum at Rollins College, or attend a performance at the historic Athens Theatre in DeLand.
Discover the Art and Music Scene
Florida’s lakeside towns are home to a thriving art and music scene. Visit the Mount Dora Center for the Arts to see local artwork, attend a concert at the historic Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in Sanford, or catch a show at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre in downtown Orlando.
Explore Architectural Marvels and Historical Sites
Florida’s lakes are home to a variety of architectural marvels and historical sites. Visit the Stetson Mansion in DeLand, which dates back to the 1880s, or take a tour of the historic Casa Feliz in Winter Park. You can also admire the stunning architecture of the historic Lakeside Inn in Mount Dora.
Take a Biking Route
Florida’s flat terrain and scenic routes make it an ideal destination for biking. Take a ride on the West Orange Trail, a 22-mile paved trail that winds through several lakeside towns, or explore the scenic routes around Lake Okeechobee.
Relax at Wellness Retreats
Florida’s lakes offer a peaceful retreat for those looking to relax and rejuvenate. Visit the Spa at the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, which offers a variety of spa treatments and fitness classes. You can also book a yoga retreat at the serene Serenity Springs Wellness Center in Eustis.
Experience Adventure Sports
For the thrill-seekers, Florida’s lakes offer plenty of opportunities to experience adventure sports. Visit the Orlando Watersports Complex to try wakeboarding or waterskiing, or take a guided airboat tour of Lake Tohopekaliga.
With so much to see and do, Florida’s lakes are a must-visit destination for any traveler. Whether you’re looking to relax and unwind or embark on an outdoor adventure, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.