Mitch and I often spend time in Central Florida due to his family living in the Orlando area. Usually our time is spent in the family neighborhood, but occasionally we get out of our bubble, and last Christmas we ventured out to Mount Dora.
About a 40 minute drive from downtown Orlando is quaint Mount Dora situated on….Lake Dora! This tiny town definitely omits the standard tourist attractions and is breath of fresh air. If you’re in the Orlando area, this is an easy trip to take in a day to get a different scene.
What to Do in Mount Dora
Mount Dora is known for its antique shops, small boutiques and festivals. Wander the streets between 3rd Ave to 5th Ave and Alexander Street to Baker Street, about a four block-by four block area, and you’ll hit the epicenter.
Although there weren’t any festivals going on during our day trip, I’ll be on the lookout for what’s on the calendar next time we’re in Orlando.
Here’s my quick hit spots of things to do and see when visiting.
Where to Eat & Drink
The Salted Fry
For a quick salty snack that’s easy to take on the go. Grab a cone of fries and a drink to enjoy as you walk throughout the square.
Las Palamas
For delicious, authentic Cuban cuisine. Mitch and I are lovers of Cuban food and this place did not disappoint. The large open window seating was very enjoyable too.
Mount Dora Marketplace
For multiple options in one spot. This marketplace has different vendor booths of food, drinks and shopping. We opted to try Cassie’s Cupcakes for a sweet treat, The Juice Box for fresh pressed juice and Bubbles + Juice for the to-go mimosa bar with a window on the corner to the street (convenient!).
Wolf Branch Brewing
For the beer lover. Although we didn’t stop here, it looked good, hopping and promising.
The Windsor Rose Tea Room
For British tea time. Another spot we didn’t hit, but if we had more time we’d snag a table for a British tea experience. On our list for next time!
Where to Stop and Shop
The Spice & Tea Exchange
For an endless offering of spices, spice mixes, sugars and loose leaf teas. You’ll get lost in all of the options and they’re all so unique and delicious looking. You must take home the locally made Florida Sunshine Blend – a mix of sea salt, orange, ginger, lemon, peppercorn and rose. It’s like Florida in your mouth: citrusy, salty, yummy.
Black Swan Mercantile
For home goods or gifts. Located in The Renaissance Building walk in and soak up all of the yummy smells from the candles and bath items. You’ll really enjoy this place if you have a classic, romantic vibe at home.
Papilio
For nature-inspired gifts and home goods. A favorite of mine, Papilio had local artwork, non-tacky gifts and lovely kitchen and home wares. A stop where most could find something!
Botanica
For plant friends and outdoor decor. Brought to us by Papilio, Botanica is a tiny house-looking shop filled to the brim with greenery and whimsy!
Things to See and Do
Grantham Pointe
Stop by on your way in or out of the town and hang out by the lake. Snap a pic by the lighthouse and enjoy the nearby park and boardwalk for some serenity.
Donnelly House
A quick sightseeing stop to view the historic Queen Anne style home. Big and bold this house made me flashback to being in San Francisco.
Modernism Museum
As you’d expect, this museum is all about modernist art and furniture…and is located in an old fire house! We really wanted to go through it, but ran out of time. It’s top of the list next visit.