Lake County is the exact opposite of Disney World. Even though the two destinations are less than 1 hour apart, they provide very different experiences. Instead of crowds and amusement park attractions, a trip to Lake County is filled with nature, relaxation and adventure.
While the two destinations couldn’t be more different, there are a few things in Lake County that definitely give you the Disney vibe. In honor of this we are breaking down some of the top places to visit on your next trip to Lake County, Disney style.
Transportation
Ride to the Ball (or at least dinner) in Cinderella’s Carriage
One of the most unique things to do in Mount Dora is to take a spin around town in a horseless, Victorian-style carriage. Olde Mount Dora Carriage Company is the first of its kind, offering guests a chance to explore the town and arrive to their destination in style.
Accommodations
Stay at the Haunted Mansion
Yes, you read that right. Lake County has its own version of the Haunted Mansion! The historic Lakeside Inn was established in 1883 and is the oldest continuously operating hotel in Florida. And any hotel with that much history is bound to have a few ghost stories surrounding it! Rumor has it there is more than one friendly resident living on the property. If you are interested in exploring more, the hotel offers ghost tours! During the tour, you are able to walk around with EMF detectors to see if you can find any ghosts.
Dining
Dine at Mount Dora’s Version of Be Our Guest Restaurant
While the Goblin Market may be a little bit smaller than what I imagine to be the size of the Beast’s castle library in the Disney film Beauty and the Beast, this cozy restaurant is lined with bookshelves and an amazing staff that is as attentive as the servants of the fictional castle. Not to mention the food is one of the best meals I have had in Florida!
Grab a Drink at HandleBar Mount Dora
Stepping in to this upscale cocktail lounge will make you think you have walked into Disney’s Tarzan. The restaurant’s monkey themed wallpaper and the owner’s handlebar mustache (similar to Jane’s father, Professor Archimedes) will definitely have you looking around for a man to swing in through the window.
Despite the parallel to the film, HandleBar has some of the best custom made cocktails and mocktails around! Each drink is made fresh and they are constantly coming up with new specials to add to their seasonal menu. Definitely worth a visit when in town.
Attractions
Tower of Terror
Also known as the Citrus Tower. Stop by one of the attractions Lake County is most known for and see the views for yourself! A quick ride up the elevator to the observation deck offers 360 degree panoramic views of the county. Grab a pair of binoculars for a better look of the area. Rumor has it you can see the Disney World firework display at night. However, while the actual Tower of Terror ride is known for the drop, you can expect nothing but a smooth ride up and down on the Citrus Tower elevator.
While you’re there, make sure to stop by the coffee shop on the first floor! I highly recommend sampling one of their many citrus flavored drinks (my favorite was the orange creme).
Splash Mountain
While the actual Splash Mountain ride may be no longer, you can still enjoy cruising through the canals on a kayak from Adventure Outdoor Paddles. The Mount Dora Canals are a great way to connect to nature and explore the wildlife. Instead of following along with the story of Brer Rabbit, be on the lookout for local birds, gators, and even otters! You may even find yourself paddling down a path telling you it’s haunted and to turn back, just as they did on Splash Mountain! (Note: the sign in Mount Dora is just for fun. The canal is not actually haunted.)
Jungle Cruise
Take a spin around the Dora Canals on a cruise with Premier Boat Tours. On this 2 hour eco-tour, learn all about the history of Mount Dora as you spot the local wildlife, including turtles, gators, herons, and more!
If an eco-tour isn’t your thing, you can also opt for a private sunset tour of Lake Dora. Bring a bottle of your favorite drink as you cruise around on the pontoon boat enjoying the sunset. Note: a private tour for 6 people is a no brainer at $150 per hour.
Tron Lightcycle Run
Looking to experience one of Disney’s Magic Kingdom’s newest rides? Did you know that Lake County actually did it first? Swap the roller coaster ride for the real world experience and rent an ATV at Revolution Adventures. Revolution Adventures offers guests guided tours through their 230 acres of dirt roads, giving them a chance to create their own adrenaline adventure.
If ATVs aren’t your thing, test out one of their other vehicles including Quads, buggies, and a unique Mucky Duck vehicle, allowing rides to cruise on both land and water.
Typhoon Lagoon
While Lake County’s version of the water park may not come with a water slide, it does come with beautiful blue waters, caves for diving, and even a chance to see wildlife (including otters!) If a day in the water is calling your name, grab a float and a snorkel mask and head over to Alexander Springs in Ocala National Forest.
Did you find this post helpful? Then check out some of our other Florida guides, including itineraries to Miami Beach . And if you are looking for more Lake County inspo, be sure to follow @discoverlakecountyfl on Instagram!
