2015 WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY

SPONSORED BY

Real Florida.

Real Close.

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SPONSORED BY

Real Florida.

Real Close.

WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY F E AT U R E S

〈〈〈 16

SWOOPS THERE IT IS You’ll be left speechless from the adventure that awaits you in America’s Seaplane City.

20 NAVIGATING LAKE COUNTY You won’t be disppointed wherever you travel through the north, south, east or west.

38 RETREAT TO LAKE If you need a vacation from your vacation, then Lake County offers a magical experience of its own.

D E PA RT M E N T S

20

38

43

6 10 12 105

EDITOR’S LETTER WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY THE AGENDA FUN FACTS

GUIDES 43 53 61 67 73 85

ABOUT THE COVER

Jones Brothers & Co. Air and Seaplanes Adventures is the wind beneath the wings of Florida’s Seaplane City. And the new Pavilion (in the background) is calling visitors by land, sea or air to Tavares.

SPONSORED BY

Real Florida.

Real Close.

TO L LA A K E CO UNTY

DIRECTION | JAMIE EZRA MARK PHOTOGRAPHY | SCOTT A. MILLER PHOTOSHOP | JOSH CLARK

4 WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY

VENUES AND AHHS TO DINE FOR TO YOUR HEALTH SHOP TO IT ATTRACTIONS IT’S GREAT OUTDOORS

COUSIN VINNIE’S FAMILY SPORTS RESTAURANT Chicken Wings Boneless Wings 1/2 lb. Cheeseburgers Personal Pan Pizzas Philly Cheese Steaks Subs, Salads & Shrimp Lots of Appetizers Deep Fried Snickers & Twinkies Beer and Wine Much More Fun Stuff!

www.CVinnies.com

RENTALS! JET SKIS SKI & DECK BOATS

FAMILY FUN

TOURS! KAYAKS PADDLE BOARDS

352.253.0585

Intersection of US Hwy 441 & Hwy 19 // 1000 West Burleigh Blvd, Tavares

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

There’s lots to like about Lake

T

hirty years ago, materials designed to promote Lake County contained phrases like, “Only 30 minutes from Disney World” and “Just an hour’s drive to east coast beaches.”

I’m not kidding. That was our identity. “If you want to enjoy all the Orlando-area attractions, but don’t want to sleep in the big scary city, get a room in Lake County; it’s not too far from the action.”

Yes, we actually were marketed as a place to visit because of our proximity to other places.

Today, there’s no need to play the closeness card. Lake County has become a desired destination. And rightly so. You could do something fun, exciting or interesting every day and never repeat an activity.

Lake really has come of age. Communities have revived downtowns, places of natural beauty have been enhanced, unique businesses have opened and towns and cities have embraced identities.

We didn’t have a Seaplane city or mecca for worldclass athletes 10 years ago. From north to south, east to west, we just keep getting better.

There’s so much going on that it’s hard to get everything into this Welcome Guide. We gave it our best shot, knowing full well that more good things are on the horizon.

To stay in the know, keep an eye on our sister publications Lake and Sumter Style, Healthy Living, and Lake Business Magazine. All three are available throughout Lake County. You also can get updated information on our websites: lakeandsumtersytle.com, lakehealthyliving.com, lakebusinessmagazine.com.

Style definitely is the magazine to read if you want to know what’s happening throughout our great county. It’s the only publication that publishes a comprehensive list of local concerts, profiles of local performers, an out-and-about guide, a wine column and detailed restaurant reviews.

You might say there’s so much happening in Lake that it takes four magazines to cover our county!

It’s true. Lake County is a great place to play and unwind, become educated or enlightened, be challenged or challenge yourself. And you can do all that and more without spending $100 to stand in long lines and walk 10 miles going from ride to ride.

Welcome to Lake County!

GARY CORSAIR | EXECUTIVE EDITOR gary@akersmediagroup.com

TO LAKE COUNTY SPONSORED BY

PUBLISHER | KENDRA AKERS kendra@akersmediagroup.com VICE PRESIDENT | DOUG AKERS doug@akersmediagroup.com CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER | JAMIE EZRA MARK jamie@akersmediagroup.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER | SABRINA CICERI sabrina@akersmediagroup.com

EDITORIAL EXECUTIVE EDITOR | GARY CORSAIR gary@akersmediagroup.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS JAMES COMBS | KEITH CHARTRAND | KATHY INGOLD | AMANDA MIMS JAMIE ROBINSON | PIERCE SCHWALB | JOHN SOTOMAYOR

DESIGN

View beautiful Lake Dora and the Harris Chain of Lakes, Eco Tours, Gator and Bald Eagle Sightings, See Disney World and Orlando Attractions, Takeoff and Land on the Water, rides from 10 minutes to over an hour.

Located on Lake Dora departing from both downtowns, Mt. Dora and Tavares.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR | STEVEN J. CODRARO steve@akersmediagroup.com ART DIRECTOR | JOE DELEON joe@akersmediagroup.com ART DIRECTOR | LORI BALES lori@akerscreative.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER | JOSH CLARK josh@akersmediagroup.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER | RHEYA TANNER rheya@akerscreative.com PRODUCTION DIRECTOR | MICHAEL GAULIN michael@akersmediagroup.com PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY SCOTT A. MILLER MATTHEW GAULIN LAKE COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM THE CITY OF TAVARES SHUTTERSTOCK

Corporate Retreats, Festivals & Weddings

SALES VP OF SALES AND MARKETING | TIM MCRAE tim@akersmediagroup.com SR ACCOUNT REP | MIKE STEGALL mike@akersmediagroup.com ACCOUNT REP | HEIDI RESSLER heidi@akersmediagroup.com ACCOUNT REP | DAVID COTÉ david@akersmediagroup.com AKERS MEDIA IS A PROUD MEMBER OF

FLORIDA MAGAZINE ASSOCIATION

LEESBURG PARTNERSHIP

LEESBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

LAKE EUSTIS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

SUMTER COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

AMERICAN ADVERTISING ASSOCIATION

TAVARES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

SOUTH LAKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

74

WINNER OF AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

Welcome to Lake County, May 2015. Published by Akers Media, 1450 E. North Blvd., Leesburg, FL 34748.

All editorial contents copyright 2015 by Akers Media. All rights reserved. Welcome to Lake County is a registered trademark of Akers Media. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. For information, call 352.787.4112. Return postage must accompany all unsolicited manuscripts and artwork if they are to be returned. Manuscripts are welcomed, but no responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited materials. “Special Advertising Feature” denotes a paid advertising feature. Publisher is not responsible for claims or contents of advertisements. The ideas and opinions contained in this publication do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of Akers Media.

Offering a unique, versatile venue for all of your special moments. A stellar view, a winding staircase and a scenic pier — no detail has been overlooked in creating this fabulous overwater oasis!

(352) 253-4300 • www.Tavares.org 200 S. Disston Tavares, Florida 32778

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 7

AT YOUR SERVICE

There’s always something exciting happening at Akers Media.

PUBLISHING The magazines of Akers Publishing – Healthy Living, Style/Lake & Sumter Edition, Style/The Villages Edition and Lake Business Magazine – set the standard by focusing on the communities in which they serve. Each magazine provides upto-date, entertaining and thought-provoking content that thoroughly represents the people and places that make these communities special.

OF STYLE WOMEN BUSINESS to get the job done right These ladies work hard May 2014

What’s in a name?

For nearly 40 years, Lake ENT & FPS has been setting the standard for compassion, technology and artistry in patient care for ear, nose, throat and facial plastic surgery.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THEIR “GALLERY” OF SERVICES INSIDE.

MAKING WAVES

yoga?

What’s SUP with paddleboard

SOS SKIN CARE irritations

Fight back against summer skin

IF THE SHOE FITS

AND MONEY KIDS Allowance and other helpful tips

Putting best foot forward to help

needy

MENTAL GARDENING

Dig up the root cause of your anxiety

TIGHTEN THE SKIN YOU’RE IN

RISKY BUSINESS

No away around it, investing entails

risk

ME, MOM & DEMENTIA

Is your skin sagging and losing elasticity?

A mother and daughter bond in the face of Alzheimer’s disease.

IN THE

Plus

TTHINGS HINGS YOU YOU SHOULD SHOULD KNOW KNOW

Barggains, ffreebies Bargains, reebbies rright ight ooutside utside yo your our ddoor oor

SSTILL TILL BBEAUTIFUL EAUTIFUL

… after after all all tthese hese ttears ears

• Branding • Advertising • Graphic Design

• Broadcast media • Interactive media • PR and Promotions

• Media placement • Custom Publishing

HHAVE AVE YOU YOU TIPPED TIPPED A TIRE TIRE TODAY? TODAY?

RRope ope cclimbing, limbing, trac tractor ctor ttire ire ttipping ippping aand nd cchin-ups, hin-ups, oh my my! y!

LAKE B US I N E SS MAGAZ I N E

Who needs theme parks when Lake County has the great outdoors? So, unplug the children, pack up the SUV and discover your own local sunsational adventure.

CREATIVE In 2012, Akers launched a full-service advertising agency which has already been recognized nationally by the American Advertising Federation (AdFed) with multiple Addy awards. Our strategy is simple: provide big market agency quality with local convenience and attitude.

F E A T U R I N G

BA RBA R A

COR C OR AN

THE SHARK TANK STAR DISCUSSES INCREDIBLE CLIMB FROM WAITRESS TO MILLIONAIRE PLUS

“ L E E D ” I N G T H E WAY BANK PRESIDENT KEN LAROE DREAMS OF GREENER LAKE COUNTY

STUDIO The old adage holds that a picture is worth a thousand words. Our philosophy is a thousand words is merely a good starting point. At Akers Studio, we produce priceless images that inspire words like magnificent, stunning, breathtaking and perfect. And we do so for every client, whether they need a quick passport photo or a 60-minute documentary.

• Portraits • Events

Akers Apps!

Visit the Apple or Android app store today and download the Lake & Sumter Style or Healthy Living online magazine app for your mobile device.

For the best in enhanced magazine entertainment, join us online for the media experience of a lifetime.

• Architectural • Videography • Commercial

• In-studio • On-location

Show Your Love.

Become a fan of Lake & Sumter Style or Healthy Living by signing up on our Facebook page, following us on Twitter (@GetStyleMag or @ GetHLMag) or visiting our YouTube channel.

Creativity at its peak.

AKERSMEDIAGROUP.COM

8 WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY

Welcome to Lake County

Y

ou’re invited to take a vacation from your vacation in Lake County, Florida and experience “Real Florida.

Real Close.”

Whether you’re a local looking for a romantic stay at a quaint bed and breakfast, an out-of-town visitor seeking respite from the frigid northern winters or a business traveler in town for a convention, it is with great pleasure that we welcome you to Lake County. Whatever the occasion for your trip, you are sure to enjoy your stay and will find Lake County to be a charming, warm and welcoming place that provides an array of options for both adventure and relaxation.

Lake County is known for its picturesque lakefront downtowns, unique natural resources and exciting attractions. It’s the perfect place for a day on the water at one of Florida’s top fishing lakes or a romantic getaway. Here, a weekend retreat consists of unwinding with a round of golf, browsing the area’s best antique shops, or eating at a lakefront dining establishment. Here, you’ll find visitors and locals alike kayaking down one of the area’s eight blueway runs, taking off on a thrilling seaplane ride, spending family time at a U-pick farm or enjoying a fabulous dinner at a locally owned and operated restaurant.

Centrally located less than 30 minutes from metro Orlando, Lake County is the ideal alternative or addition to a trip to the theme parks, and is a just short drive from the coastal beaches.

Lake County’s Economic Development & Tourism Division is committed to ensuring visitors receive the fullest Lake County experience. You’ll find a wealth of resources about Lake County within this tourism guide. For additional information, visit our new website at visitlakefl.com to learn more about what makes Lake County “Real Florida. Real Close.”

Best regards, ROBERT L. CHANDLER IV

Florida’s Most Historic Hotel

LAKE TOURS

A Timeless Experience...

Maximize your experience

K

now this about visiting Lake County: you don’t have enough time to see and do all the awesome things people flock here for … unless you move here. Even then, you’ll be challenged.

There are so many things to do you may not know where to start.

Here are a couple of options: Hop on the Bus, Gus! LakeXpress describes itself as “The Way to Go” and we can’t argue the point. The buses are clean and quiet, spacious and comfortable and downright affordable. A one-day pass for unlimited rides is just $3.

Riding the bus is a great way to get acquainted with our county.

Visit ridelakeexpress.com for more information, including route maps that show common destinations and points of interest.

Mount Dora’s centerpiece for over 130 years!

Accommodations 90 comfortably appointed guest rooms and suites Beauclaire Dining Room Featuring creative Southern cuisine Tremain’s Tavern A traditional club-like atmosphere with nightly entertainment Overlooking Lake Dora Enjoy spectacular Lake Dora sunsets

100 North Alexander Street – Mount Dora, FL 32757 Toll-Free 800.556.5016 or Local 352.383.4101

lakeside-inn.com

Taste Lake Of course, you shouldn’t travel on an empty stomach. So why not silence your tummy rumble while becoming familiar with one of the most popular cities in Lake County?

Taste of Our Town Tours offers a guided tasting tour of local food and wine in historic Mount Dora with a dash of history and scenic highlights. Tours are offered on Thursday, Friday and Saturday and originate from the Mount Dora Chamber of Commerce at 341 Alexander St. There is a fee. Visit mountdoratasteofourtown. com.

Tour from Home Using the Internet is a great way to zero in on things you want to do and places you’ll want to visit. We’ve included a number of web links in the following pages to help you learn all you can about Lake County.

WORSHIP SERVICE TIMES: 8:00a.m. 9:30a.m. 11:00a.m. fbcumatilla.org †

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 11

352.669.3214

† 550 Hatfield Dr., Umatilla

THEAGENDA SERIOUS ITINERARY SUGGESTIONS FOR FUN AREA ACTIVITIES

H

ow much fun and excitement can you cram into a day?

In Lake County, the answer is "plenty!"

Lake County is full of places where one can easily spend an entire day relaxing, but those who like to keep on the move also can satisfy their itch to bounce from place to place, no matter what their interests.

Here are a few itineraries sure to fill a day ‌ or two.

12 WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY

SHOPAHOLICS Shopaholics can get their fix strolling downtown second-hand boutiques, browsing renowned antique malls and digging for fabulous finds at thrift shops in nearly every Lake County town or city.

Browse bargain wares at the Lake County Flea and Farmers Market on Thursdays at the Lake County Fairgrounds, 2102 County Road 452, Eustis.

Shop the best in antiques and second-hand goods at Renninger’s Twin Markets, 20651 U.S. Highway 441, Mount Dora.

Make a day of the Leesburg Saturday Morning Market, complete with entertainment and food vendors, 501 W. Main St., Leesburg.

Sail away on Sundays to Central Florida’s only boat-in

farmers market, the Mount Dora Village Market at Elizabeth Evans Park, south end of Donnelly Street, Mount Dora.

Lose track of time in this gorgeously appointed Through the Years Vintage Market, located inside an old two-story home in downtown Tavares, 102 E. Alfred St., Tavares.

Do a good deed while getting a great deal when shopping at the Cat Protection Society Resale Shop, 3725 N. Highway 19A, Mount Dora.

FOODIES Give your tastebuds a trip to remember, whether you crave Southern comfort food, world-famous European pastries or authentic Thai cuisine.

Here’s an itinerary that’s sure to please the most discriminating palette:

Start your day at Yalaha Bakery, 8210 County Road 48, Yalaha. Snack on fresh pastries, cookies and tortes. Suggestion: Order the Berliner Brotchen, Bauernbrot or Stollen with Marzipan. Or try anything seasonal on the menu. And take home an amazing loaf of bread or bag of pretzels.

When you’re ready for breakfast, head to The Beauclaire Dining Room inside the historic Lakeside Inn, 100 Alexander St., Mount Dora.

Your tummy will thank you whether you order an omelet, mini pancake stack, Belgian

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 13

waffle, eggs Benedict or house made granola.

If, by some miracle you need something to hold you over until lunch, give in to temptation at Cupcake Delights, 122 E. Fourth Ave., Mount Dora. There are 32 different flavors in the Cupcake Delights rotation.

If you’re still in Mount Dora when lunchtime rolls around, pick up some fingerlicking, fall-off-the-bone ribs at Sugarboo’s BBQ without having to leave your car. The winner of the People’s Choice Award at the 2009 Taste of

Mount Dora is located at 1305 N. Grandview St., Mount Dora.

Enjoy a mid-afternoon snack at the Crooked Spoon gastropub at 200 Citrus Tower Blvd., Clermont. Crooked Spoon is a burger lover’s paradise. Chef Steve Saelg is a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu who honed his skills at Tavern on the Green in New York City. If you find the burgers too intimidating, opt for the smoked chicken wings, duck confit tostadas or fried green

tomatoes and crab.

Ah, dinner. For Southern cooking, visit The Mason Jar in Umatilla and order the fried chicken. The meatloaf also is worthy of applause. The Mason Jar is located at 37534 State Road 19. For Italian, head to Angelo’s, 2270 Vindale Road, Tavares.

Enjoy an after-dinner drink and catch a glimpse of a seaplane landing on Lake Dora at the laidback Ruby Street Grille, 221 E. Ruby St., Tavares.

CULTURE JUNKIE Take a step back in time to experience the area’s rich heritage at historical museums, or learn about modern art during rotating exhibits at downtown galleries.

Soak in a little history at The Presidents Hall of Fame, 123 S. U.S. Highway 27, Clermont. The miniature White House is really cool.

A Lake County landmark since 1956, the Citrus Tower offers a bird’s-eye 360-degree view from inside a glassenclosed observation deck 22 stories above ground. 141 S. U.S. Highway 27, Clermont.

Step back in time at the

Lake County Historical Society Museum, 317 W. Main St., Tavares. Note: the museum is only open 10a.m-2p.m, Friday and Saturday.

Catch a concert with the Florida Lakes Symphony Orchestra, featuring 60 international professional musicians.

For more information, visit FloridaLakesSymphony Orchestra.com.

PUB CRAWL From lively Irish pubs to refined wine bars, Lake County purveyors of libations will have all types of nightlife lovers shouting, “Cheers!”

Sample local wine and take a tour among the vineyards at Lakeridge Winery, 19239 U.S. Highway 27, Clermont.

Sip in-house brewed beer, grab a bite and listen to live music at Rocking Rabbit Brewery, 405 S. Highland St., Mount Dora.

Browse antiques while partaking of craft beers and

14 WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY

wines at Mermaid Juice, 458 N. Highland St., Mount Dora.

Catch the sights on Main Street during happy hour at Two Old Hags Wine Shoppe, 410 W. Main St., Leesburg.

Relax with tapas and a glass of vino at Vineyards of the World in downtown Clermont, 712 W. Montrose St.

ROMANTIC GETAWAY

EVERYTHING LAKE COUNTY

Enjoy natural beauty by day and candlelit dinners by night. Bask in the serenity of Lake County during a romantic getaway for two.

ART GALLERIES Rent a secluded cabin at Louisa State Park overlooking Lake Dixie, 7305 U.S. Highway 27, Clermont. You won’t be roughing it — the spacious cabins feature two bedrooms and two bathrooms, kitchens stocked with utensils, a fireplace, and outdoor grills. Deer and wild turkeys often are observed from cabin porches. Great place for bird watching and hiking, too.

Rentals are $110/night plus tax.

Enjoy fine dining at Goblin Market, a culinary gem hidden at 330 Dora Drawdy Way, Mount Dora. Owners Vince and Janis Guzinski have been charming guests for 17 years.

According to Style magazine, “Dining at Goblin Market is a theatrical collaboration … This restaurant is and always has been a gourmet’s paradise.”

The 2002 Zagat Survey called Goblin Market, “Wonderfully Sophisticated.”

Savor a cocktail at Tremain’s Tavern at the historic Lakeside Inn. Enjoy live music nightly in Tremain’s, which has the feel

of an old Florida fishing club.

Intimate and comfortable. 100 N. Alexander St., Mount Dora.

Take a leisurely self-guided, two-hour boat tour on the Dora Canal with CraigCat Tours, surely the most unique way to enjoy the water. You and your honey will ply the water in a two-seat, unsinkable catamaran, which provides an unrestricted view of Florida’s natural wonders. Gilbert Park

Lighthouse, 311 S. Tremain St., Mount Dora.

Brunch and toast to a special occasion with bottomless mimosas at Mission Inn Resort & Club, 10400 County Road 48, Howey-in-the-Hills.

Mission Inn has five distinctive restaurants, each featuring home-grown produce from an on-site chef’s garden.

Sip a heavily poured glass of wine amid locally created art while rubbing elbows with Norm himself, the namesake behind Norm’s Palette, 303 N. Baker St., Mount Dora. And try the tapas.

KID ZONE Bring the kids and have a blast at venues ranging from indoor bounce houses and glowing golf to educational botanic gardens and specially designed parks.

Take the kids to a petting farm that’s almost a zoo at Uncle Donald’s Farm, 2713 Griffin Ave., Lady Lake.

Make a splash at seaplanethemed Tavares Children’s Splash Park, 100 E. Ruby St., Tavares.

Bounce the day away at Jungle Zone, featuring inflatable slides, obstacle course and jump house, 1960 Woodlea Road, Tavares.

Take fun indoors with familyfriendly laser tag, glow-in-thedark mini-golf and more at Lake Square Laser Tag, 10837 U.S. Highway 441, Unit No. 2, Leesburg Children of any ability are invited to safely frolic in the playground at Lake Idamere Park, 12335 County Road 448, Tavares.

Learn about the great outdoors at Discovery Gardens’ six specially designed children’s gardens, located at the Lake County Agricultural Center, 1951 Woodlea Road, Tavares.

Gather up the family and take advantage of the bountiful harvest at Lake Catherine Blueberries U-pick farm, 5849 Lake Catherine Road, Groveland.

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 15

southlakeartleague.com lakeeustismuseumofart.org leesburgcenter4arts.com mountdoracenterforthearts.org

MARATHONS/ RUNS/RACES runningintheusa.com

THEATERS icehousetheatre.com moonlightplayers.com melon-patch-players.com gardentheatre.org baystreetplayers.org

CHAMBERS southlakechamber-fl.com elcchamber.com mountdora.com ladylakechamber.com leesburgchamber.com sumterchamber.org tavareschamber.com umatillachamber.org

CITY/ DOWNTOWN/ PARTNERSHIPS mtdora.org leesburgpartnership.com tavares.org

LAKE COUNTY TOURISM lakecountyfl.gov

HOSPITALS southlakehospital.com fhwat.org cfhalliance.org

SWO Adventure awaits in ‘America’s Seaplane City’

OOPS THERE IT IS STORY AMANDA MIMS PHOTOGRAPHY SCOTT A. MILLER

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 17

Y

ou look down from the cockpit to shimmering water as the plane picks up speed, its pontoons barely skim the liquid blue surface. Water, land and sky converge on the horizon, and a smile spreads across your face.

You’ll still be grinning long after the plane lands. Your feet return to solid ground, but your head is stuck in the clouds.

It’s a feeling that is difficult to describe but easy to become addicted to — just ask any of the countless pilots who flock to Tavares, known as “America’s Seaplane City” or ask Rob Galloway, chief pilot and part owner of Jones Brothers Air and Sea, which offers seaplane sightseeing tours and instruction there and in Mount Dora.

First-timers often are left speechless, Galloway says. “People get out of the airplane and they have these big smiles and can’t really say anything but ‘Oh my gosh, what an amazing experience’ and ‘that was awesome.’”

The thrill isn’t restricted to being in the clouds. It’s a gas to watch aircraft from the ground, which is what many people do. Walking the downtown area and checking out shops and

restaurants as seaplanes buzz overhead and land on Lake Dora is a bit of an adventure in itself.

It’s a scene you would be hard-pressed to find anywhere else, and seaplane pilots could not be more welcome any other place.

“They come in, walk the streets, see restaurants and stores and fly off from wherever they came from,” says Joyce Ross, public communications director for the city of Tavares. “Our folks really love them. This is one of the few places you can walk up to a seaplane, touch it, talk to the pilot and have your picture taken. We see our names in magazines and blogs all over the country. Pilots come in, they talk about us, and we bend over backwards to welcome them.”

Wooton Park on Lake Dora is home to Tavares Seaplane Base & Marina, a Federal Aviation Administration-certified airport, and The Prop Shop, which serves pilots, boaters and drive-up visitors alike by selling refreshments, seaplane and boat supplies and other goods.

Lake County’s thriving seaplane culture began just under five years ago, when the City of Tavares was looking to rebrand itself and find a new way to attract visitors.

“One hundred years ago, we were one of

the first places that welcomed seaplanes,” Ross says. “In 2010, the feeling originally was that this is a really nice idea, and we’d bring some folks in. We thought maybe we’d see a couple hundred seaplanes.”

It wasn’t long until the seaplane idea exceeded original expectations. Tavares recently celebrated its 10,000th seaplane landing, and the industry there constantly is expanding.

The lure of a seaplane adventure is hard to resist, even among seasoned pilots.

Galloway gets a fair amount of business from other pilots — both as customers on sightseeing tours and students seeking seaplane instruction. Some of the Jones Brothers pilots are full-time commercial airline pilots who fly for Jones Brothers on their days off for sheer pleasure.

“It’s fun, fun flying,” Galloway says.

“There’s something about it. I think most pilots are intrigued by seaplane flying.

I absolutely love doing it every day. It’s

18 WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY

“I absolutely love doing it every day. It’s probably the most fun kind of flying there is.”

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS PROVIDED BY THE JONES BROTHERS

— ROB GALLOWAY

probably the most fun kind of flying there is.

It’s completely different than being on a jet or airliner; it’s much more enjoyable. You’re right there in the cockpit with the pilot, you’re communicating with the headsets and you can hear air traffic control.

“It’s such a safe place to be while still being able to fly low and do some really interesting things. In a land plane, it would be fairly dangerous to fly 10 or 20 feet above the water … but as long as you have the floats of a seaplane, you’re in a very, very safe position, so you’re able to do some low flying over water and get down into the river and check it all out. Being able to fly low and see nature and climb up over the area — it really is pretty amazing.”

The aviation theme is ubiquitous in

Tavares, from the seaplane in the children’s splash park at Wooten Park to the names of restaurants and stores As Ross explains it, “Everything we do has a seaplane theme humming in the background.”

Besides everyday seaplane activity downtown, the city has holiday celebrations, festivals and parades that make for a lively town with aviation at its core. Tavares has two organized fly-ins each year that draw visitors from near and far.

“We’ll have 40 to 60 seaplanes parked along the shoreline. They’re all over the place, and people will walk up to them and pilots tell stories,” Ross says.

When visiting America’s Seaplane City, be prepared to spend a full day exploring, learning and experiencing new things,

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 19

including a ride on the Orange Blossom Cannonball, a historic train that runs from Tavares to Mount Dora.

“Most people plan the whole day. They’ll come in and have a seaplane ride and a train ride. We have a splash park for the kids and a boutique hotel,” Ross says. “It’s a great place to visit regardless of age or interests.

If you just want to sit by the lake and have a quiet afternoon, you can have a picnic lunch and watch the seaplanes come in.”

To learn more about Wooton Park, visit www.tavares.org/899/Seaplane-Base-Marina.

To get more information and rates for seaplane rides, visit www.jonesairandsea.com.

Close your eyes and point at a Lake County map and you won’t be disappointed if you follow your finger. Each region has its own special appeal. Adventure and tranquility await whether you head north, south, east or west.

NAVIGATING LAKE COUNTY

F O R E S T G AT E W AY

ALTOONA | ASTOR | UMATILLA Ideal for camping and kayaking, the rustic towns surrounding the Ocala National Forest and Alexander Springs are places fishermen dream of.

Astor is the place to dock if you're an avid fisherman, with half a dozen boat ramps

and Powell's Campground for campers wishing to have an extended trip. The St. John’s River and Lake George, both located on the border of northern Lake County, are known for some of the best catfish and trophy largemouth

bass fishing in the state.

The area’s waterays host three of the county's blueways, or state-designated water trails.

By canoe or kayak, travelers along the St. Francis/Dead River Run, Stagg Mud Lake Run or Blue Creek Run can take

in picturesque views of wading birds, alligators, otters and eagles, or see remnants of the ghost town of St. Francis, also formerly known as “Old Town.”

The area’s unique ecosystem focuses on wildlife preservation.

Reserve Park (PEAR) offers miles of trails, a nature center and excellent birding.

Lake Griffin State Park, in Fruitland Park, offers boating to one of the best lakes for bass fishing on the Harris Chain of Lakes.

The Villages, the largest retirement community in the world, is a hub of beautiful homes, dining, shopping and golf courses and boasts live entertainment nightly at three town squares.

NORTHWEST LAKE

FRUITLAND PARK | LADY LAKE | LEESBURG Small-town charm has a party edge in Northwest Lake, where Bikefest and Mardi Gras festivities are balanced by state parks.

Leesburg is a place for lively festivals. Whether it’s familyfriendly events, or the world’s

largest three-day motorcycle and music party, there always is action in the county’s oldest city.

Leesburg’s quieter side hides a hidden gem of native plants, wildflowers and migrating birds. The Palatlakaha Environmental and Agricultural

GOLDEN TRIANGLE

ASTATULA | EUSTIS | HOWEY-IN-THE-HILLS | MT. DORA | TAVARES | YALAHA Eustis, Mount Dora and Tavares make up the Golden Triangle, but the entire area is known for lakes and old oaks draped in Spanish Moss — a place where seaplanes, antique shopping and Sunday brunch are customary.

Quaint bed and breakfasts draw travelers to Mount Dora, not to mention the historic Lakeside Inn (built in 1883), which offers spectacular views of Lake Dora.

Live music streams nightly from eclectic restaurants, pubs and wine bars. For a romantic meal, the Goblin Market offers fine dining at its best.

Watch seaplanes take off and land while dining at Al’s Flight

Deck in Tavares, or take a ride for yourself. By air, land or sea, Tavares Pavilion on the Lake is a sight to behold with its scenic pier at Wooton Park.

Downtown Eustis boasts oldfashioned charm.

SOUTH LAKE

CLERMONT | GROVELAND | MASCOTTE | MINNEOLA | MONTVERDE Clermont’s distinct elevation changes and gently rolling hills lend to exceptional triathlon courses frequented by serious athletes. But casual hikers, bird watchers and romantic vacationers also are drawn here.

This area is home to Sugarloaf Mountain, the highest point in peninsular Florida, and Green Mountain Scenic Overlook and Trailhead in Ferndale boasts a boardwalk with views from 130 feet above sea level.

In Groveland, enjoy wildlife viewing while learning about Florida’s only endemic bird, the Florida Scrub Jay at The Florida Scrub-Jay Trail.

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 21

Unwind at Lakeridge Winery and sample wines made from locally grown Muscadine grapes, or take an eco-tour on the world’s largest ATV at Showcase of Citrus.

FORESTGATEWAY

F O R E S T G AT E W AY

GATEWAY TO PEACEFULNESS

40

19

Lake George State Forest

Arlington River

ASTOR Alexander Springs Wilderness

Lake Woodruff

445

19

Y

42 ALTOONA

Lake Dorr

Lake Tracy

42

44

Lake Norris

19 439

Lake Norris Conservation Area

44A

Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park

UMATILLA

44

44A

Seminole State Forest

ou don’t need to seek a secluded, faraway island to get a break from modern-day chaos. The northeast tip of Lake County is known for quiet, rustic life unplugged from the mainstream – a destination where canoeing, kayaking, hiking, biking, four-wheeling and horseback riding are top priority for the day or for a lifetime.

Flanked by the dense and buffering Ocala National Forest to the north, towns like Umatilla, Astor, and Altoona offer life unplugged.

Each community is known for unrushed, carefree activities and dining, outdoor living and nature walks. And the towns are close together, so you can swim in crystal-clear water, enjoy a chili cookoff and take in a horseback ride, all in a day.

22 WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY

ASTOR POPULATION: 1,560 SIZE: 2.34 SQUARE MILES

The tiny town of Astor, located near Umatilla in an area once inhabited by ancient Native American and Spanish civilizations, once had a promising future as the dream of William Backhouse Astor Jr., of New York. He purchased 12,000 acres of land in 1874 to establish a town he called Manhattan. Accessible by steamboat, new arrivals settled the land owned by one of the nation’s wealthiest men. Astor built a church, schoolhouse, botanical garden, free cemetery, hotel, sawmill and even a railroad, which connected the settlers to Eustis and Leesburg.

The town grew, but the name never caught on. After his death, the town was renamed Astor in his honor.

His son, John Jacob Astor IV inherited the estate and continued his father’s legacy,

ALTOONA POPULATION: 88 SIZE: .5 SQUARE MILES

Altoona may be a small town, but it has a big heart, as evidenced by attractions dedicated to a war veteran and a horse. McTureous Homestead and Museum and McTureous Memorial Park on State Road 19 honor the memory of Altoona’s only native World War II Medal of Honor recipient: Private Robert M. McTureous.

He was the son of Robert M. McTureous, Sr., Altoona’s onetime postmaster and justice of

the peace, and his wife, known to the community as “Aunt Bessie.”

Fiddlers Green Ranch offers full-service vacation villas for horse and nature-lovers in a cozy setting overlooking ranch grounds. Fiddler’s famed 100mile equestrian trail in the Ocala National Forest is popular with endurance and competitive trailriders, local riding groups and individuals. Great for family reunions, company retreats, club outings and seminars, the ranch provides cable TV and Internet Wi-Fi, plus kitchens and dining rooms, decks, and grills.

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 23

town and business interests in Florida. He died on board the Titanic when it sank in 1912.

His son, Vincent, did not have the same interest in Florida as his father and grandfather, and sold off all area assets. That, combined with a significant drop in steamboat travel, ended the town’s prosperity, prominence and promise.

Today, Astor holds many “well-kept secrets.” With numerous eclectic places to stay (the Blackwater Inn and AstorFlorida Inn), eat (William’s Landing, Castaways on the River and Sparky’s Place), and sightsee along the river (Captain Ernie River Tours and Pioneer Settlement for the Creative Arts).

The area is devoted to tourism.

Enjoy a leisurely boat ride through the many tributaries along the St. John’s River aboard the St John’s River Tour.

F O R E S T G AT E W AY

You’ll observe native plant and wildlife, such as alligators, bald eagles, manatees, ferns and large cypress trees. Tours depart from the Blackwater Inn, a picturesque mainstay along the byway. Blackwater Inn provides a mouthwatering menu.

Williams Landing, located upstairs, offers an informal lunch and dinner with full bar.

Try the house special – a smoked fish dip appetizer made from yellow tuna.

Castaways on the River on State Road 40 is a great place to relax, have a drink, watch the boats and eat a meal. The owners also have a modest motel and boat rentals.

Sparky’s Place, also on State Road 40, is another local favorite serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Swamp Shack, previously O’Brien’s, is the newest eatery on the byway. They also are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

One of the best kept secrets in Lake County is the Pioneer Settlement for the Creative Arts, a recreated settlement of authentic pioneer-era buildings that were disassembled, moved, reassembled and restored to create a village-type feel beneath great canopies of moss-draped oak trees. The settlement is dedicated to preserving the architecture and traditions of Central Florida’s bygone times. Established in 1976, the settlement complex is located five miles from Astor on U.S. 17. It contains a complete railroad depot thought to have

been built around 1885, and a bridge-keeper’s house from approximately 1926. Creative arts produced in the region and Native American crafts are sold.

Guided tours of the facility are offered.

According to Debi Dyer, tourism program supervisor of the Economic Development & Tourism Dept., no tour of the area’s natural wonders is complete without a visit to the Lake County Blueways project and the St. Francis/Dead River Run. A blueway is similar to a hiking trail, only physical and geo-positioned markers are used to guide trail users through the waterways.

The St. Francis/Dead River Run traverses the river of the same name. The trail passes the ghost town of St. Francis, formerly known as “Old Town,” located 20 miles south of Astor.

Paddlers can observe where the town was built from pilings in the water that indicate where a grand motel stood on the shore.

Even the most knowledgeable Floridians would be surprised to know that St. Francis is one of Lake County’s 30-plus ghost towns. It quite possibly was the most prolific during its heyday. Once a thriving port on the St. Johns River, St. Francis had its own newspaper, post office, general store, warehouse, wharves and hundreds of citrus acres. The town was abandoned after the devastating Big Freeze of 1894-’95 destroyed the local citrus industry.

UMATILLA POPULATION: 2,214 SIZE: 3 SQUARE MILES

Umatilla feels a bit like Mayberry, the fictional small town on the Andy Griffith Show, except it is prettier.

Fittingly, the City of Umatilla recently adopted the new slogan, “Nature’s Hometown.”

The Umatilla Chamber of Commerce, however, maintains its long-standing motto, “Gateway to the Ocala National Forest.” Both are appropriate.

Enjoying the great outdoors is important here. That’s obvious when you visit North Lake Community Park, which opened in 2009. The primary purpose of the park is to offer recreational sports fields for league play and general use – two baseball fields, two softball fields, two soccer fields, and three multi-use

24 WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY

fields. Other amenities include an expansive playground, four picnic pavilions, two restroom facilities, two basketball courts, six tennis courts, four sand volleyball courts, concession stands, a 1.4-mile perimeter trail loop and a .75-mile nature trail.

Several citrus trees remain from when the site was an orange grove.

The downtown Umatilla historic district has a collection of late 19th century Victorian and old Florida-style homes, many recently restored. There also has been an increase in new unique shopping experiences at Umatilla Antique Market, Serendipity, Retail Shop, an old-fashioned ice cream parlor and other businesses. There are several popular restaurants,

including Umatilla Inn & Restaurant, the Mason Jar, Old Crow Barbecue, and Greg’s Haystax.

Downtown Umatilla comes alive with “Evening on the Avenue,” a quarterly event featuring live entertainment, street vendors and specialty activities. Locals also are fond of the annual chili cook-off. And more events are being planned.

“We are seeking events on a quarterly basis in downtown now that our community is becoming more walkable,” said Executive Director of the Umatilla Chamber of Commerce Susan Martin.

For information on the industries that thrived in early Umatilla – like citrus and beekeeping – visit the Historical Society and School House Museum on Crowell Avenue.

The School House Museum was built in the mid-1940s, then repurposed as a museum 10 years ago. Martin calls it Umatilla’s “well-kept secret.”

It is open by appointment.

For tours, call Martin at the Chamber of Commerce.

The outskirts of Umatilla is the premier location to observe the Florida black bear in its natural habitat.

The Florida Black Bear and Wildlife Conservation Festival, in its 16th year, is a fun and educational event that increases awareness and promotes safety.

It also is the most unique wildlife centered festival in the Southeast. The focus is on education: how to coexist and preserve the ecosystem that is so important for the livelihood of local business, while educating people on bears' migration habits, so as to best preserve wildlife habitat.

“With bears being in the news more and more these days, it is important that we continue to have a strong education message about coexisting safely,” said Martin. “We are starting to see more wildlife travel from the southern part of our state, the area known as the Florida Wildlife Corridor.” The festival promotes awareness of how to best preserve their habitat – the Wildlife Corridor – to allow natural migration that does not deviate into human populations. For starters, proper disposal of organic waste and livestock maintenance so as to not attract hungry bears and other predatory wildlife.

There’s plenty to see and do in Umatilla, but the city also is a stepping stone to paradise.

Umatilla borders nearby Alexander Springs, and provides access to the southern end of the Florida National Scenic Trail: an unpaved trail 60 miles long.

Both attract eco-tourists from all over the country for its ideal

swimming, fishing, camping and hiking. “The first leg of the Florida Trail is just outside of Umatilla on CR 42 on the way to Paisley,” said Martin.

Located in the Ocala National Forest, the Alexander Springs Recreation Area offers a floodplain forest of maples, sweet gum and cabbage palm.

These create a subtropical area where alligators, turtles, raccoons, back bear and many birds make the wilderness their habitat – a perfect place for birding and wildlife watching.

Fishing and canoeing are accessible from platforms along the Timucuan Trail – a 1.1-mile interpretive loop trail set on a boardwalk over the spring and

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through palm trees into the Alexander Run. The 22-mile Paisley Woods Bicycle Trail also is nearby.

Another popular choice for nature lovers, Silver Glen Springs, is easily accessible by car (via State Road 40), plane (Umatilla Airport) or boat (St. John’s River from Astor).

Outdoor enthusiasts travel by any means necessary for camping, hiking and swimming in one of the most beautiful springs in the state.

Boats are prohibited, which makes Silver Glen Springs popular with swimmers, snorkelers and manatees that visit in the winter for a warm refuge from the cool waters of the St John’s River.

The landscape is predominantly upland forests of oak, cedar and pine perfect for photography, birding and ecology studies. Take the Spring Boils Trail to Jody’s Spring, named after the spring described

by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings’ American Literature classic, “The Yearling.” For gorgeous views of Lake George, choose the alternate Lake George Trail, which passes through the uplands to the cypress shoreline.

UMATILLA boasts one of the last municipal airports, with lots of fly-in traffic. People fly in from across the state to spend the day in Umatilla. The international airport with a hometown feel has a fuel station and provides courtesy cars to get around throughout the day.

Great for festivals.

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 25

NORTHWESTLAKE ALIVE WITH OPTIONS

27

EL CAMINO REAL

LADY LAKE

466 KE

LA

ROLLING ACRES RD

Lake Miona

MORSE BLVD

RD

27

Lake Deaton Lake Okahumpka

468 LEWIS RD

GRIFFIN RD

DA

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O FL

44

S DIXIE AVE

MORSE BLVD

44

MAIN ST

RN

TU

27

Lake Griffin

441 44

KE

PI

468

POPULATION: 4,251 SIZE: 3.7 SQUARE MILES

Dead River

466A

44A

FRUITLAND PARK

FRUITLAND PARK

LAKE ELLA RD

466A

301

IN

IFF

GR

THOMAS AVE

NORTHWEST LAKE

472 301

BUENA VISTA BLVD

466

LEE ST

BUENA VISTA BLVD

301

LEESBURG Lake Harris

R

ich with history and full of lakes and parks ideal for outdoor activities, community-oriented Northwest Lake County has many options for visitors and residents to explore and enjoy their surroundings by sea, land and air.

Where else can you water ski in the morning, enjoy a music or arts festival in the afternoon and end the day with a sunset dinner at a popular lakefront restaurant?

Or take the family on a kayak trip from the river of a landmark park to one of the lakes the county is famous for, enjoy a vintage train ride from one scenic small town to another and end the day taking in views of a beautiful waterfront while the kids splash around in a whimsical splash park?

Northwest Lake County is ideal for a family day, date night or retreat, and the main cities and towns are so close together, you can visit two or more communities in a day.

Fruitland Park is a typically quiet place to enjoy life’s simpler treasures, like “Nawlins Style French Toast” and 50-cent coffee at Fruitland Park Café or homemade corned beef hash and fruit-filled muffins at Rae Rae’s.

The secluded charm of Fruitland Park’s neighborhoods, lakes and parks are neatly tucked away from busy Highway 441 by massive oak trees. The soft, gentle nature of the town presents a natural inclination for hospitality, thus Fruitland Park is known as “The Friendly City.”

Leesburg’s neighbor to the north draws visitors and new residents with old-fashioned rustic charm and natural appeal.

The community is known for

26 WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY

history, outdoor life and its own take on performing arts and attractions – rodeos and racing.

The tranquility of nature flourishes at Lake Griffin State Park, just off Highway 441.

With 40 camp sites (supplied with fresh water and electricity), showers, restrooms and laundry facilities, picnic area, nature trails, canoe and kayak rentals and boat ramp, the 620-acre state park is a great place to camp, hike, picnic, kayak or canoe. However, absolutely no swimming is allowed due to the high concentration of alligators.

The must see tip: Lake Griffin State Park is home to one of Florida’s largest mammoth oak trees. It is 300-500 years old and the second largest live oak in Florida. The tree sits at the end

of the half-mile nature trail, at the southeastern corner of the park. A nearby bench is the ideal spot for quiet reflection.

For entertainment, locals love Windy Acres Farms on County Road 466A, which offers rodeo, barrel racing and the Leesburg Saddle Club. A favorite event is the Fruitland Park Founders Day Bulls and Barrels Rodeo in March. More than 100 rodeo contestants, judges, scorekeepers, stock handlers and volunteers are on hand to greet more than 1,000 spectators.

According to rodeo organizer and Windy Acres Farms owner, Bill Galbreath, more than 20 riders enter “the most dangerous eight seconds in sports.” Afterward, five of the best barrel-racers with five of the best horses in Florida vie in a winner-take-all quest for a big cash prize.

Fruitland Park Day, held in the spring, is a fun-filled family event that kicks off with a parade in the morning, featuring local entertainers and marching bands. The day is filled with live bands, disc jockeys, free train rides, rock climbing, photo booth, bounce houses, space

ball and face painting.

There are plenty of fun, family-friendly activities for everyone in Fruitland Park.

Adrenaline junkies of every age will love Speedway Park on Micro Racetrack Road.

Kids as young as 5 race on the track, and adult carts reach speeds in excess of 60 mph.

The park offers both lessons and racing. Open since 1958, the “Original Speedway Park” is Florida’s oldest and premier 1/6-mile dirt go-kart track.

Today, the track is recognized as a World Karting Association Master Track. In addition to go-kart racing, Speedway Park hosts: the Motorcycle Flat Trackers, Southern Dirt Track Association, BikeFest SDTA Motorcycle Event, and BikeFest Camp & Race Weekend. The regular season for carting includes 16 races from January through November.

Gardenia Park Recreation Complex, operated by the City of Fruitland Park, offers a popular skateboard park. The complex also features a pool, soccer/football field, handball court, playground, walking trail and sheltered pavilion.

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THE HOLY TRINITY EPISCOPAL CHURCH, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is home to the oldest "lynchgate" in Florida, presented to the church in 1889 by Emily Tatham.

LEESBURG POPULATION: 21,142 SIZE: 24.5 SQUARE MILES

Leesburg’s combination of calm water, clear blue skies and picturesque terrain offers an ideal balance between passive serenity and opportunities for energetic activity – a perfect blend of small-town atmosphere and nature. The Lakefront City has numerous community-oriented activities, fabulous shopping, scenic gardens, fascinating history, artful pursuits and lively festivals. Leesburg is a place to repeatedly visit or stay forever.

Lined with colorful shops, appetizing restaurants and historic buildings, Leesburg has one of Lake County’s most active downtowns. Locals love the Saturday Morning Market. The one-of-a-kind Food Truck-N-Flick Night hosted by the City of Leesburg is just as

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 27

popular. Young and old enjoy delicious fare from gourmet food trucks lined up on Main Street and enjoy a blockbuster movie on the outdoor screen in Towne Square.

“Leesburg is real Florida,” says Sandi Moore, executive director of the Leesburg Area Chamber of Commerce.

The city represents what people truly want – a friendly, southern atmosphere where you can feel safe and welcomed.

Downtown is known for friendly, quaint places to shop.

Victoria’s Antique Warehouse offers everything from vintage to trendy, from American and French antiques, rare heirloom pieces, primitive, and reclaimed treasures to custom, urban/ industrial, Shabby Chic, and accessories. Collectibles and country gifts can be found

NORTHWEST LAKE

at Morning Glori Antique Mall, among its antiques and primitives. Search for musthave items at Another Look Consignment Boutique or Alada’s China & Gifts. Share stories over a glass of wine and live jazz at Sip Jazz and Wine Bar after picking up one-ofa-kind women’s apparel and jewelry at Doggiebags or the Shoppes on Main.

Leesburg also represents what Florida was meant to be: beauty and nature. “I think a ‘must do’ is to get out on the lakes,” said Moore.

Canoe, kayak, boat rentals and tours are available to explore the lakes.

The inviting, lush greenery of peaceful Venetian Gardens implores visitors to walk through its 64-acre park on the west shore of Lake Harris.

For family fun, Venetian Gardens has a public pool with bathhouse. Adventurous types can get their adrenaline surge with water skiing at Ski Beach.

Bourlay Historic Nature Park offers nature lovers another alternative. This 88-acre park is the site of the city’s first steamboat landing and first Methodist service. Visit a “shotgun” style Cracker House while bird-watching along Lake

Griffin’s lakeside trails.

To learn about Leesburg’s rich past, visit the Leesburg Historic Museum and the historic district, which has a number of interesting landmarks. A standout, the Mote-Morris House, was built in 1892 and has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1974. Finally, the Tropic Theater on Main Street, built in 1932, is the oldest

L O C AT I O N

MELON PATCH THEATER

311 N. 13th St., Leesburg, FL 34748 352.787.3013 Melonpatchplayers.com

movie theater in Central Florida.

The theater is now home to the Tropic Troupe Children’s Theatre Group.

Leesburg hosts several lively and crowd-pleasing annual events, including Mardi Gras: 12 Hours of Madness Party in the Street in February. The event transforms Main Street into Bourbon Street as jugglers, fire eaters, stilt walkers, brass jazz bands, face painting, kidfriendly rides and games and three parades keep the party going into the night.

The Leesburg Bikefest in April is an even wilder, adultoriented event. Turn to our list of festivals to learn more about “the world’s largest three-day

28 WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY

motorcycle and music event.”

The Spring Fish Fry at the Mote Morris House in April is a time-honored tradition where you can have all the fish you can eat while enjoying live entertainment.

The Craft Beer, Wine and Food Fest, held in November at Venetian Gardens, is a colorful, popular event with live music that encourages revelers to travel station to station sampling craft beers or wines from around the world, plus a variety of food from top restaurants. All for $25 per person.

What’s new in downtown?

Plenty. Leesburg Main Street’s $3.8 million streetscape is nearing completion.

LADY LAKE POPULATION: 14,247 SIZE: 6.7 SQUARE MILES

The Town of Lady Lake is a charming alternative to the enormity and complexity of next door neighbors The Villages and busy Highway 441. It's a cozy neighborhood canvassed by tree-lined streets draped with Spanish moss, surrounded by countryside dotted with orange groves and sparkling lakes. Attractions include the Lady Lake Historical Society Museum, the famed Log Cabin and Uncle Donald’s Farm. Town Squares in The Villages nearby offer plenty of shopping and recreation.

Gain new insights into the heritage of diversity and transformation of the town at the Lady Lake Historical Society Museum. Founded in 1992, The Lady Lake Historical Society collected artifacts, furniture, decorative arts, photographs and more. It soon outgrew the Log Cabin, now the official home of the Lady Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. In 2000, the museum acquired the town’s old

train depot, previously used as Lady Lake’s first public library.

Major renovations occurred during the summer of 2014. The society completely changed the interior of the museum, creating an interactive environment that transports visitors into the past. Exhibitions include Early History, Founding Families, Military, Agriculture, Early Schools, Early Churches and the Beginning of The Villages.

Uncle Donald’s Farm is like a dude ranch for farmers, a place where urbanites can milk a goat, pet a bristly pig, touch a chicken and feed a cow. Established in 1980, Uncle Donald’s Farm connects visitors with a variety of domesticated and wild animals.

Experiences range from hand feeding cattle to watching for llamas and ostriches on the hayride. Attractions range from mild to wild: from the poultry patch, consisting of many “heritage” breeds of chickens, like Jersey Giants, New Hampshire and lots of fancy bantams, to the wildlife display: home to panthers, deer, birds of prey, tortoises and exotic animals. Don’t forget to look inside the old red barn.

Hint: close contact with the reptilian kind.

The Villages is a huge retirement community that welcomes visitors to its three town squares for shopping, dining and nightly entertainment.

Market Square especially is inviting. This colorful

waterfront on Lake Sumter Landing reminds people of a quaint seaside village, complete with lighthouse. The landmark beacon beckons visitors, as if signaling fun and free entertainment to passersby: “Shop and dine at our assortment of lovely boutiques and restaurants, and while you are here, see a movie at the Old Mill Playhouse movie theater.” Its draw is irresistible.

GOLDENTRIANGLE

GOLDEN TRIANGLE

UNIQUE COMMUNITIES SPARKLE LIKE GEMS

Lake Eustis

19

EUSTIS

44

19

441 19A

LIMIT AVE OLD

ALFRED ST

TAVARES

441

441

Lake Beauclair

19 448

Lake Carlton

443 HOWEY-INTHE-HILLS

561

ASTATULA

POPULATION: 1,298 SIZE: 2.2 SQUARE MILES

Lake Ola

448A JONES AVE

19 48

L

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S CLAYTON ST ALT RTE 441

452 MOUNT DORA

Lake Dora

YALAHA

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akefronts, friendliness, seaplanes and hometowns are the playful identities of what’s known as the Golden Triangle — Eustis, Tavares, Mount Dora and nearby towns.

Each community offers numerous distinctive reasons for visiting for a day or putting down roots and staying for life. Here are some established must-do things and places to see that make this region a sparkling gem in Lake County’s crown.

Astatula sits on the eastern shore of Little Lake Harris and is known as a transportation hub with access to major highways and roads. But it's off-roading that draws many to Astatula.

Coyote Mud Bog features mud pits, motocross tracks, trails for all-terrain vehicles, camping and an amphitheater. Stanley Pond Adventure Farm is another popular place for family fun.

Early on, Astatula was known as a great place to hunt, particularly for bears and alligators.

30 WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY

EUSTIS POPULATION: 15,106 SIZE: 9.7 SQUARE MILES

established the Clifford General Store and began the first mail service for the new settlement that became Eustis. The Clifford House on Bay Street is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The museum features the “Indiana Jones Room” dedicated to the memory of Dr. Edgar James Banks, an antiquarian and archeologist.

On the first Friday of every month, the City of Eustis throws a community street party with live bands, aromatic food and a kid’s area. Adults won’t want to miss Main Street’s famous margaritas at the beer and wine tent. On the fourth Saturday of every month, historic downtown revs up with the Downtown Classic Cruise-In Car Show.

For a night out on the town, everyone is buzzing about the newest hot spot, 1884 Restaurant and Bar. Housed in the old Ferran’s Department Store, 1884 is gaining raves with Executive Chef Jay Davis’ superb menu, deliberately limited for flair.

Another new hot spot is the award-winning Barnwood Bar-B-Que. Owners Dan and Elaine Backhaus have gone up against some of the nation’s top barbecue teams and emerged victorious. Vegans will love the superb gluten-free and vegan friendly options at the brand new 31 Magnolia, a late-night venue with romantic setting and live music. A popular choice among music lovers is Olivia’s Coffeehouse, which has open mic sessions that attract up-andcoming musicians and has been

described as the town’s “heart of acoustical music.”

If music is the town’s heart, art is its soul. Nine pieces of museum-quality art, including the iconic “Heron” sculpture by artist Doug Hays in Ferran Park, are sprinkled throughout the historic downtown area.

The event season kicks off with the African American Heritage Festival and Parade in February, one of the longest running events in the region.

By far the largest and most anticipated event in Eustis is GeorgeFest, the second-oldest festival in the nation celebrating George Washington’s birthday

NOTABLE NEWS

The downtown waterfront district lends itself to festivals and events with the beautiful lake walk and renovated Ferran Park, site of the Mediterraneanstyle Alice McClelland Bandshell. Small-town charm, unique restaurants, museums, fishing, sailing and sunsets on Lake Eustis (one of the largest lakes in the Harris Chain of Lakes) and a variety of entertainment options make Eustis a popular destination.

Start downtown. Walk down Orange Avenue and patronize a vibrant collection of restaurants, bars and shops. Walk off your meal on the Lake Walk, which extends a quarter mile and features four gazebos with benches, plus 20 boat slips.

Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Eustis from a seawall extending along the entire shoreline to the historic bandshell listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

If you enjoy history, you must visit the Eustis Historical Museum housed in the one-time residence of G.D. Clifford, who

and the longest-running festival of any kind in Florida.

Eustis also is proud to host the annual Lake County Fair.

Generally 80,000 people attend each year for the carnival, booths, live entertainment, creative arts, horticulture displays and the livestock shows.

The Lake County Folk Festival, held in October and sponsored by the Lake Eustis Institute Public Art & Music Committee, is “… considered one of the top five acoustic music festivals in Florida,” said Miranda Burrows, public relations manager of Eustis.

The city's newest park, PALMETTO POINTE PARK, located on Getford Road near Hicks Ditch Road, features workout stations around a half-mile walking path.

TROUT LAKE NATURE CENTER features educational programs for adults and children, a boardwalk extending 1,000 feet into Trout Lake with a pavilion on the lake, and Adventure Walk with a swinging bridge.

The FERRAN PLAYGROUND is scheduled to open in June 2015.

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 31

HOWEY-IN-THE-HILLS POPULATION: 1,122 SIZE: 1.9 SQUARE MILES

GOLDEN TRIANGLE

The state’s first citrus juice plant was built here in 1921

by William John Howey, the town’s founder. Today, the

charming town is known as the home of Mission Inn Resort and Club, one of Florida’s premier golfing and spa destinations.

It’s also home to the quaint Howey Market, which offers groceries, made-to-order sandwiches, fresh produce, ice cream and more than 100 different cold craft beers.

Howey-in-the-Hills still offers the same unparalleled natural beauty that attracted early residents with its Griffin Waterfront Park and the Sara Maude Mason Nature Preserve. With so many outdoor activities available, Howey-inthe-Hills has become a natural eco-tourism destination.

TAVARES POPULATION: 9,700 SIZE: 7.5 SQUARE MILES

The identity of Tavares and subsequently every facet of the town’s social, business and cultural life changed one day in 2006 when City Administrator John Drury walked to get lunch at a local restaurant.

He observed a seaplane land and watched the pilot wallow through mud and reeds to get to O’Keefe’s Irish Pub. He thought, “Why not build a seaplane ramp for easy access?”

Drury imagined a new identity for the City of Tavares. He imagined seaplanes landing in Tavares as a stopping point that

would galvanize the people behind a new motto: America’s Seaplane City. In 2010, he realized his dream.

With an $8.3 million investment, Tavares Seaplane Base & Marina opened, immediately attracting seaplanes and businesses catering to seaplane pilots.

Next, family-friendly businesses arrived, which led to the revitalization of Wooton Park with kid-friendly attractions like the whimsical seaplanethemed Splash Park and the Orange Blossom Cannonball

steam engine train ride. Behind the playground, you can ride the vintage train cars of the Orange Blossom Cannonball, an authentic steam engine locomotive used in several bigscreen epics. The ride between Tavares and Mount Dora takes 90 minutes round trip (with a 45-minute layover in either town), and includes pizza and wine tastings, themed parties and staged train robberies.

With the addition of the fabulous new pavilion just paces away, the Tavares downtown area has become a new premier hot spot for those seeking perfect balance between entertaining activity and smalltown atmosphere.

While on the waterfront, you may desire to do some shopping.

In addition to the Prop Shop and the Orange Blossom Cannonball Train & Gift Shop, you’ll find specialty items in a number of unique boutiques, including Hoity Toity Mercantile, LadyBugs Gifts & Sundries, Bill Squires Copper Creations and Pat’s Fabulous Finds.

A short drive or long walk away, the Historic Lake County Courthouse houses the Lake County Historic Museum.

Like Leesburg, Tavares has several lively and crowdpleasing festivals — 18, in fact. The Rotary Club of Lake County Golden Triangle hosts the Central Florida Dragon

32 WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY

Boat Festival in March, which is the main event of the year.

“Racers from all over the world compete,” says Colleen McGinley, executive director of Tavares Chamber of Commerce.

Planes, Trains and BBQ in April provides precision flying demonstrations and freefall maneuvers by the U.S. Special Operations Parachute team. On the ground, revelers enjoy train rides on the Orange Blossom Cannonball and award-winning barbecue.

Some of the festivals are downright unique, such as the Spring Sea Plane Fly-in in May, which attracts seaplanes of every kind from all over the country; the Hydro Drag Jet Ski Nationals / Pro Hydro X Tour in June; the newest event, Rifles, Rails & History: Steam Back to the North and South, in September (a living history encampment that transports visitors and guests back 150 years to the Civil War) and the Howl-O-Fest in October.

MOUNT DORA POPULATION: 12,534 SIZE: 8.02 SQUARE MILES

POPULATION & SIZE REFERENCES: (2010 CENSUS) HTTP://FACTFINDER.CENSUS.GOV/FACES/NAV/JSF/PAGES/COMMUNITY_FACTS.XHTML#NONE

Mount Dora made two impressive lists in 2014.

Smithsonian.com ranked Mount Dora 14th on its “One of the Best Small Towns to Visit” list; Best Choice Reviews named it 24th in a ranking of 50 Best Small Town Downtowns in America, and the American Planning Association

bestowed its first annual Florida Great Places – People’s Choice Award to the city.

Now the world knows what long-time Lake Countians have taken for granted: Mount Dora has charm galore, wonderful events that draw people from all over the world, a lakefront, fantastic dining and entertainment, super shopping, abundant natural beauty, and a thriving arts community.

Mount Dora, in a word, is distinctive. After all, how many towns have a lighthouse? How many are built upon a mountain, albeit a small one? An old-time locomotive?

Recent improvements to downtown’s popular Sunset Park and other public facilities have enhanced the city’s already strong appeal.

“Bustling” is another word that describes this vibrant community. Mount Dora hosts 10 major festivals a year.

The biggie is the nationally acclaimed Mount Dora Arts Festival in February, although the annual crafts fair in late October draws a quarter million people each year.

Mount Dora’s diverse roster of events includes festivals for bicycle enthusiasts, antique collectors, gardeners, and antique boat owners.

Many visitors head straight to one of Mount Dora’s unique dining spots. Treat yourself to a memorable culinary experience at The Goblin Market, Mount Dora Brewing/Rocking Rabbit Brewery, Mr. Cebiche, Copa Cabana, Frog and Monkey, Pisces Rising, Vitality Bistro or Magical Meat Boutique.

Mount Dora presents an inviting blend of new and old.

A few common sight: Segways parked outside of Uncle Al’s

Time Capsule and Oliver’s Twist Antiques & Appraisals; young couples walking along the pier behind the 102-yearold Mount Dora Yacht Club, kids riding bikes past oldtimers playing bocce at the Mount Dora Lawn Bowling Club, which was founded in 1928 and is the oldest such club in the nation.

There’s always something going on in Mount Dora, but that’s not to say the pace is fast.

The city has 12 major parks and eight minor ones for relaxation and repose. One of the most popular places for quiet reflection is the rebuilt boardwalk at the end of Liberty Avenue that leads to Palm Island, an eight-acre nature preserve.

YALAHA POPULATION: 1,364 SIZE: 14.8 SQUARE MILES

Settled in the mid-1800’s and surrounded by bodies of water, including Lake Harris, the community of Yalaha is nestled between Howey-inthe-Hills and Okahumpka, on County Road 48, accessible via Highway 27 or Highway 19.

Many years ago, Yalaha was the shipping point to the North for area towns until the Jacksonville-Tampa railroad was constructed in 1884.

Today, locals know Yalaha for one thing, the Yalaha Bakery.

Designated “A bakery like

no other,” the family-owned bakery founded in 1995 serves genuine German breads and oldworld tortes and pastries. The philosophy is to provide quality, fresh natural and organic products, while keeping the German recipes of old prevalent throughout the bakery. While the theme may be time-honored and traditional, dietary needs such as gluten- and sugar-free are an integral part of the menu.

The bakery also is open daily for breakfast and lunch, with a nice variety of options.

L O C AT I O N

YALAHA BAKERY

8210 CR 48, Yalaha, FL 34797 352.324.3366 Yalahabakery.com

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 33

SOUTHLAKE

SOUTH LAKE

FAMILIES, NATURE LOVERS AND ATHLETES SAY "YES" TO SOUTH LAKE

Lake Harris A D

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Little Lake Harris

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LAKE APOPKA RESTORATION AREA

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true nature lover’s paradise, South Lake County has been dubbed Runner & Bicycle Friendly by Road Runners Club of America and The League of American Bicyclists, respectively.

Home to over 80,000 residents, family-friendly South Lake County is centrally located to many area attractions, parks, golf courses, lakes and trails, theatres, shopping and dining options.

While rich with history from those who first settled here, the cities of Clermont, Groveland, Mascotte, Minneola and Montverde are moving onward and upward to accommodate citizens' needs. A diverse population ensures there’s literally something for everyone.

34 WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY

CLERMONT POPULATION: 28,742 SIZE: 13.63 SQUARE MILES

There are many attributes to Lake County’s largest city, which is growing 20 miles west of Orlando.

For starters, the historic downtown and city center continually is progressing without losing its charm.

That appeal is enhanced by 23 area parks, lakes and rolling hills that provide ample opportunities for boating, fishing, kayaking, swimming, hiking, walking, running, cycling and more.

Other attributes and attractions include: The Citrus Tower, the highest observation point in Florida The Clermont Arts and Recreation Center houses the largest performance hall in Lake County and is developing new forms of entertainment for the city.

The National Training Center, a fitness facility, summons professional and Olympic athletes in various sports, including triathlon, cycling and running to live and train in the area.

Lake Sumter State College and the University of Central Florida have a combined campus that offers many degree programs.

Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards The Hall of Presidents Museum Clermont Historic Village Weekly and seasonal festivals such as the Farmers Market & First Friday Food Trucks Waterfront Park Clermont Splash Pad, a 3,200 square-foot water play area Clermont Boathouse, new headquarters for the Lake County Rowing Association.

L O C AT I O N

LAKERIDGE WINERY & VINEYARDS

19239 US-27, Clermont, FL 34715 352.394.8627 Lakeridgewinery.com

L O C AT I O N

THE CITRUS TOWER

141 US-27, Clermont, FL 34711 352.394.4061 Citrustower.com

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 35

GROVELAND

SOUTH LAKE

POPULATION: 8,729 SIZE: 14.98 SQUARE MILES

Groveland, like most cities in the South Lake area, is tucked away far from larger cities, but still holds its own.

Accessible by State Road 50, Highway 19 and Highway 33, the city feels spread out and consequently, smaller than it

?

actually is.

Bird watchers will enjoy the variety of species visible around Lake David Park, one of five parks, which also includes boat ramps, a playground, basketball courts, picnic tables and pavilions.

The historical Community Center is utilized for city council and other events.

Veterans Park, dedicated to local Korean War Veterans Association Chapter 188, South Lake County, is a town icon.

Groveland’s Historical Museum was established in 2007 and displays relative memorabilia from decades past.

MASCOTTE POPULATION: 8,729 SIZE: 14.98 SQUARE MILES

Mascotte prides itself on celebrating culture and community.

The laid back community on State Road 50, just west of Groveland, is one of the fastest growing locales in Lake County, but residents seem determined to retain a small-town atmosphere.

You'll have to go somewhere else if you want to eat at a chain restaurant. The Rainbow Restaurant, which opened in 1964 and serves homemade donuts and a homecooked buffet, suits locals just fine. For nightlife, there's The Breeze, where live music and good times are always on tap.

Mascotte has plenty of character, much of it at the Jot-Em-Down Store, which is decorated with service station signs. Inside, shoppers with find antiques, curious

in 1910, the 20,000 acres of GROVELAND FARMS were divided into smaller tracts and sold primarily to SwedishAmericans from Illinois.

36 WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY

curios including Florida and Lake County memorabilia, Disneyana, home accent pieces, yard art, even the proverbial kitchen sink.

At Virginia’s Square Dance Apparel, you'll find dresses, petticoats, pettipants, shirts, blouses, shoes, string ties, neckerchiefs and everything else you need for your next square dance.

A number of unique businesses — like Maria's Mexican Store — cater to Mascotte's sizeable Hispanic population.

Mascotte is also a wonderful place to enjoy the beauty of nature. One of the most popular spots for relaxing is Sunset Lake Park is a mirror image of Myers Lake from television's Mayberry.

MINNEOLA POPULATION: 9,403 SIZE: 10.34 SQUARE MILES

Minneola, conveniently located along Highway 27 in a country setting, offers quiet living with quick access to larger surrounding cities.

Trailhead Park is a 17-acre park offering a playground, basketball courts, ball field, pavilion and dog park. The scenic park connects to South Lake, Lake Minneola Scenic and West Orange Trails, and gives access to over 30 miles for walking, cycling, skating or running. A community garden allows residents to purchase lots to grow their own organic produce and fruit.

Lake Minneola Inn features the Tiki Bar & Grill. Situated

at the water’s edge at Lake Minneola, this locale is perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature, while noshing on American fare. Another fabulous eatery is Jack’s Barbeque. Its slogan, “When the chimney ain’t smokin’, we ain’t open” is pretty accurate.

It’s not fancy, but the barbeque speaks for itself. Those with a sweet tooth must visit The Donut King, a local familyowned specialty donut shop featuring homemade donuts, pastries, castle burgers and more. This popular location just a stone’s throw south of Jack’s is open 24 hours. Self-control is encouraged.

L O C AT I O N

LAKE MINNEOLA INN | TIKI BAR & GRILL

508 S. Main Ave., Minneola, FL 34715 352.394.2232 Lakeminneolainntikibar.com

MONTVERDE POPULATION: 1,498 SIZE: 1.8 SQUARE MILES

Montverde’s charm is evident at the civic complex that includes the town hall, the Franklin Pearce Jr. Auditorium, the library, the fire department, post office, picnic pavilions, basketball courts, and an oakshaded park where movies are shown and festivals held.

The 125-acre campus of Montverde Academy is also picturesue, but the 103-yearold private school has also become a prep basketball powerhouse. The Eagles won their third consecutive national championship in April.

The Soccer Institute at Montverde Academy and Gary Gilchrist Golf Academy also draw first-rate athletes.

Montverde Academy has an enrollment of more than 1,000 students, including more than

300 boarding students from 13 states across America and 48 countries. And the school is expanding.

The stately academy also has an equestrian center adjacent to the town’s Methodist Church.

And speaking of development, Bella Collina's luxury lifestyle in serene surroundings is atttracting new residents.

Bicyclists will want to pedal along Green Mountain Scenic Byway (County Road 455) for tranquil views.

At Lake Florence Park, a safe place for kids to play and for adults to watch the sun set over the water and hills.

Take a good look around, there's plenty to see. When hunger strikes, visit Green Mountain Pizza.

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RETREAT TO

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If you need a vacation from your vacation, then Lake County offers a ‘magical’ experience of its own.

Vacation offers a much-needed reprieve from the stresses of everyday life. It’s a time to rest and recharge. However, taking a break from work sometimes can prove as taxing and stressful as work itself.

By the end of a normal Florida vacation day, fun, thrills and excitement can turn into physical exhaustion, sunburned skin and aching, blistered feet.

Fortunately, tourists can give their stress a vacation by escaping to Lake County for one day or, even better, a weekend retreat.

The county’s natural resources and laid-back atmosphere allow vacationers to temporarily escape the noise and chaos and enjoy a wealth of fun-filled opportunities—shopping, outdoor recreation, historical sites, varied dining choices, world-class resorts, beautiful

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 39

golf courses, picturesque springs, acres of hiking trails and so much more.

Simply put, it’s time tourists familiarize themselves with Lake County and discover why the county is one of Florida’s top family-friendly ecotourism destinations. In an effort to strengthen local tourism, the Lake County Office of Economic Development and Tourism recently launched a marketing campaign designed to attract Central Florida tourists to Lake County.

“We’re encouraging visitors who are spending time in Central Florida or the coastal beaches to tack on a few days to their vacation and come experience the unique attractions Lake County has to offer,” says Robert Chandler, director of the

Lake County Economic Development and Tourism Department. “We’d love to show them why Lake County is ‘Real Florida.

Real Close.’”

PLENTY TO SEE AND DO

Even if tourists only have enough time to visit Lake County for one day, there are endless activities to enjoy. For instance, they could take a guided boat trip or kayak down the Dora Canal and become awestruck by the sights and sounds— towering cypress trees draped with Spanish moss, great blue herons sitting statue-like on the bank and the chirping of birds that call the surrounding forest home. They also could visit Clermont’s Showcase of Citrus and ride a monster truck that transports passengers deep into a Florida swamp or take a seaplane ride in Tavares and enjoy a birds-eye view of Lake Dora.

Other day trip activities include snorkeling, diving or canoeing the crystalclear waters of Alexander Springs, riding bicycles among the gentle, rolling hills of South Lake County or antiquing in the quaint, New England-style town of Mount Dora. And if they want to get up close and personal with Lake County’s stunning beauty, there are numerous hiking trails that weave through lush, subtropical forests.

They also could visit the county’s numerous small towns and discover why each has its own unique style and appeal.

Of course, there are plenty of accommodations for tourists who would

40 WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY

like to spend several days in Lake County.

There’s the historic Lakeside Inn, which was built in 1883 and is Florida’s oldest continuously operating hotel. Or they could stay at Mission Inn Resort and Club, which is nationally renowned for its Spanish mission-style architectural buildings, championship golf courses and spring-fed lakes. And there are numerous bed and breakfast inns throughout the county where guests can refresh their spirits and rejuvenate their minds.

“Lake County offers a complementary alternative to what most people are doing on their vacations,” Chandler says. “People may not think of Lake County as an overnight destination, but the fact is the county

offers so many exciting things to see and do. We realize people are going to visit the theme parks and beaches, but once they’re done, why not spend a few nights here and decompress in a more soothing setting?”

SPREADING THE MESSAGE

Chandler says his office will promote the “Take A Vacation From Your Vacation” marketing campaign through multiple advertising channels, including print, digital and social media marketing.

“We plan to use the entire gamut of marketing channels available,” he said.

“This is the first time in 10 years that we have really concentrated on a targeted, well thought-out advertising campaign.”

The target audience, he says, includes three groups: Orlando visitors, Florida residents and niche activities.

“Niche activities are areas where Lake County has a noticeable and quantifiable strength,” he says. “For instance, we have some of the country’s top lakes for bass fishing. We also have ample golf opportunities, boating opportunities, antiquing opportunities and birding opportunities. We want to take a strategic approach to each of those areas so we have a message that is tailored to each of those target audiences.”

However, there already is ample evidence that Lake County is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination.

The county’s tourist development tax revenue increased by almost 15 percent in 2014, which was the highest growth rate in the region.

“I’m excited that more and more people are beginning to learn about Lake County and consider us as a vacation destination,” Chandler said. “We are seeing the maturation and evolution of Lake County’s tourism industry. Our tourism partners are becoming more sophisticated, and we are seeing the positive results not just in the performance of the tourist development tax, but also in the success of our many tourism businesses."

SMART GROWTH

Between 2000 and 2010, Lake County ranked as Florida’s sixth-fastest growing county. The population increased from 210,528 residents in 2000 to 297,052 residents in 2010. As of 2013, the county’s population was 308,034.

The key to handling growth, Chandler says, is careful planning so quality of life and natural resources are not compromised.

“From an economic development side, we are not taking a let’s-pave-everything mentality. We want to handle growth the right way so we can preserve Lake

42 WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY

County’s culture and character for future generations,” he says. “Tourism is 20 percent of Lake County’s economy, and our tourism is not based only on attractions, but also strongly on our eco-tourism. In no way, shape or form do we want to jeopardize our eco-tourism industry or the quality of life that makes Lake County such a special place to visit or live.”

With luck and proper planning, more and more people will realize that west of the hustle and bustle of the theme parks and mega malls is a little piece of paradise known as Lake County. It’s a place brimming with natural beauty, recreational amenities, one-of-a-kind attractions and quaint towns with rich histories.

Whether it’s for a daytrip or a weekend retreat, tourists and Floridians alike can come here for a little rest and relaxation while enjoying a family-friendly, amiable atmosphere.

“Overall, Lake County is a special place with unique attributes that are not offered anywhere else on the scale they are here,” Chandler says. “We have 1,400 lakes where you can enjoy fishing, waterskiing and boating. We have rolling hills where you can run, bike and hike. And there are few counties in Florida that have the number of unique, historic downtowns like we do.

I’m so excited to spread the word about the wealth of opportunities Lake County has to offer.”

Planning a special occasion can be fun but also very stressful.

There’s so many tiny details to get right: the food, the guests, the entertainment, the decorations . . . and, of course, the perfect location. Luckily, Lake County has plenty of fabulous venues.

Venues and ahhs

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 43

VENUES

VERSATILITY, VALUE AND MAGNIFICENT VIEWS

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ake County’s Old Florida charm, central location and accessibility from major highways makes these venues the perfect choice for those looking to leave the hustle and bustle of city life behind for something extraordinary.

From massive to modest, extravagant to inexpensive, there are plenty of places that fit any taste and budget. The key is to shop around and find what works for you.

Don’t know where to start looking? Here are five local sites you won’t want to overlook when planning your next affair to remember:

PAVILION ON THE LAKE Until recently, there were only a few truly classy venues to hold weddings and exclusive events. That changed when Pavilion on the Lake in Tavares opened in late 2014.

With extraordinary views of picturesque Lake Dora, the two-story, 8,000-square-foot conference and wedding facility

44 WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY

provides the perfect setting for any occasion.

A tropical-inspired overwater oasis, Pavilion on the Lake peacefully “floats” on the lake at the end of a 150-foot-long brick-paved pier ideal for experiencing a spectacular view of downtown Tavares.

Inside, two-story floor-toceiling windows provide a remarkable panorama of the calming lake waters. Antique furnishings accented with 43 pieces of original artwork convey the feel of a luxury island resort.

The pièce de résistance is the magnificently designed main staircase handcrafted out of sugar maple from Wisconsin.

“We are completely excited every time we show it to someone,” says Carrie Petroski, pavilion manager. “It is such a special and beautiful venue we’ve added to Lake County, and we’re very proud of it.”

MISSION INN CLUB & RESORT Whether you’re planning your company’s annual conference or need a place for your daughter’s wedding, Mission Inn Club and Resort in Howey-in-the-Hills serves as a complete destination resort that can accommodate your event needs.

Surrounded by Old Florida’s natural beauty — Spanish moss hangs from ancient oak trees, gentle rolling hills, sparkling lakes and a yearlong sunny climate — Mission Inn is where visitors come for fun and excitement, quiet relaxation, or a little bit of both.

Its unparalleled exclusivity has made it a popular destination for corporate meetings, weddings, team-building events, golf outings and special holiday programs. As a result, the 1,100acre resort hosts more than 650 events annually with a 74 percent return rate.

“This is a place where memories are made,” says Drew Toth, director of sales and marketing. “When people visit this destination resort, it rekindles memories of coming here 20 years ago for a special golf outing with dad or a friend’s unforgettable wedding.”

For 50 years, Mission Inn has maintained a long and proud tradition of entertaining vacationers, newlyweds, honeymooners, businesspeople and locals in one of Florida’s most picturesque environments.

LAKE RECEPTIONS Variety is the spice of life, and Lake Receptions has that and more to offer those wanting a multipurpose venue.

Located in the quiet community of Mount Dora, Lake Receptions’ southern setting is a perfect location for both hometown events and destination weddings.

From smaller, intimate conference rooms to their grand ballrooms, the 30,000-square-foot facility can accommodate parties as small as 10 and as large as 600.

“We do everything. We’ve

hosted rotary and chamber events, receptions, awards dinners … the events run the gamut,” says Christopher Marsha, banquet director.

In addition to its spacious design, Lake Receptions has an onsite kitchen with a professional culinary staff and state-of-the-art equipment for a wide variety of dining options.

“We can do buffets, station presentations, hors d’oeuvres or plated meals,” says Marsha. “We offer offsite catering, as well.”

Lake Receptions is conveniently located off U.S. 441 and State Road 19, making it easily accessible for guests traveling from as close as Eustis, Tavares and Leesburg and as far away as Orange County.

“Our goal is to ensure every occasion is a success here at Lake Receptions,” says Marsha.

“From designing your menu to pairing it with bar packages and decorations for a seamless event, we work to meet all of our clients’ needs.”

L O C AT I O N

LAKE RECEPTIONS

4425 N. Highway 19A, Mount Dora 352.357.8223

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 45

HARBOR HILLS COUNTRY CLUB Harbor Hills embodies the classic country club experience. Its Lady Lake location offers amazing views of the natural beauty Lake County is famous for.

Harbor Hills is home to a beautiful, 35,000-square-foot, Georgian-style clubhouse that has four enormous banquet rooms, as well as two grand terraces with a panoramic view of Lake Griffin. Though Harbor Hills Country Club primarily is known as one of the finest wedding reception halls in Florida, it also is a prime location for any event of any size.

Considered one of the most experienced full service wedding venues in Central Florida, Harbor Hills has been a destination wedding location for

over 20 years with brides from Orlando to Gainesville selecting this unique and romantic location for their special day.

As for catering, no event is too small or too large for their chefs. From an elaborate gourmet dinner for 300 to an intimate gathering of 20, Harbor Hills’ kitchen staff is committed to serving only the finest, freshest foods to make your event a raging success.

For companies looking for the ideal meeting space, Harbor Hills’ elegant meeting rooms are complete with wireless internet services, quality projection equipment and many other corporate services needed to host a successful and productive business event. And as for formal or more casual cocktail parties, Harbor Hills has a lounge and

billiards room outfitted with a full-service bar, pool table, card tables and full-size windows with fantastic vistas.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY BELLA COLLINA

BELLA COLLINA In Montverde, amongst the highlands of South Lake County, the spirit of Tuscany lives inside Bella Collina.

This exclusive club is so uniquely designed, it guarantees to make your event simply unforgettable. And from the moment guests step onto the grounds, they should expect to be transported to a retreat of endless bliss.

The focal point of the Bella Collina experience begins at the grand clubhouse, which is home to the kind of exceptional service and niceties you’d expect at the country’s finest resorts.

From large-scale events to small, intimate affairs, the Clubhouse at Bella Collina is well-suited to meet a wide range of business needs.

However, if you’re looking to tie the knot, the distinct, Old World atmosphere at Bella Collina offers the feel and experience of a destination wedding without the need to travel. Your guests will be in awe when they discover the authentic Tuscan charm and breathtaking views reaching miles across Central Florida countryside. Indoor and outdoor ceremony and reception areas are available, so the happy couple can create the wedding of their dreams.

Bella Collina also is furnished with a 7,000-squarefoot formal ballroom. Framed by glass windows and overlooking beautiful Lake Siena and Lake Apopka, this space can seat up to 300 guests comfortably.

GRAND OAKS There’s no place in America like Grand Oaks Resort. America’s Equestrian Resort is situated amidst majestic oaks and 400 acres of gently rolling pastures of Florida’s horse country.

The one-of-a-kind paradise in northwest Lake County adjacent to the Marion County line offers active and passive participation in live equine events, competitions and education.

Eighteen well-appointed houses and cottages are for rent for those seeking relaxation (what’s more relaxing than watching equestrian training?) or attending one of several special events. Some cottages are

attached to barns. A lodge that sleeps 12 is perfect for family reunions.

Or bring your own lodging.

America’s finest equestrian resort recently unveiled Grand Oaks RV, which features 45 spacious sites with full hook-ups, individual restrooms, showers, laundry room.

Visitors will want to enjoy as many of Grand Oaks' hundreds of acres of trails (seven miles for walking or bicycling) as possible, as well as well-stocked fishing holes, tennis courts, carriage rides and shopping at the gift shop.

But horses are the main draw, so why not take a riding or

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 47

carriage driving lesson?

Whether you stay overnight or for an hour or two, you must visit the world-famous Carriage Museum, home to more than 165 fully restored American and European carriages and driving accessories.

And be sure to visit the bistro for homemade soups, sandwiches, salads and a sumptuous Sunday brunch.

Grand Oaks Resort is a wonderful venue for an unforgettable wedding or meeting.

Grand Oaks Resort is located at 3000 Marion Country Road near Weirsdale. For more information, visit thegrandoaks. com.

OTHER LOCAL VENUES Clermont Garden Club 849 West Ave. Clermont, FL 34711 352.250.0213 clermontgardenclub.com Country Club of Mount Dora 1900 Country Club Blvd.

Mount Dora, FL 32757 352.735.4059 ccofmtdora.com Deer Island Country Club 18000 Eagles Way Tavares, FL 32778 352.343.5151 deerislandgolf.com

Hickory Point Recreational Facility 27341 State Road 19 Tavares, FL 32778 352.343.3777 lcwa.org Lakeside Inn 100 N. Alexander St. Mount Dora, FL 32757 352.383.4101 lakeside-inn.com Leesburg Boat Club 1 Dozier Circle Leesburg, FL 34748 352.787.8916 or 352.326.8274 leesburgboatclub.com

L O C AT I O N

LAKESIDE INN

100 N. Alexander Street, Mount Dora 352.383.4101

COUNTRY CLUB OF MOUNT DORA

48 WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY

Legends Golf and Country Club 1700 Legendary Blvd.

Clermont, FL 34711 352.243.1118 legendsgolfcc.com

Mount Dora Yacht Club 351 W. Fourth Ave. Mount Dora, FL 32757 352.383.3188 mountdorayachtclub.com

Magnolia House at Trilogy Orlando 100 Falling Acorn Ave. Groveland, FL 34736 352.557.3029 magnoliahouseweddings.com

The Valencia Room at the Citrus Tower 141 N. U.S. Highway 27 Clermont, FL 34711 352.516.2649 valenciareceptions.com

Morris House 17533 Silver Creek Court Clermont, FL 34711 352.435.9424

Sanctuary Ridge Golf Club 2601 Diamond Club Drive Clermont, FL 34711 352.243.0411 sanctuaryridgegc.com

Mote-Morris House 1195 W. Magnolia St. Leesburg, FL 34748 352.728.9898 leesburgflorida.gov Mount Dora Golf Club 1100 S. Highland St. Mount Dora, FL 32757 352.383.3954 mountdoragolf.com

Triangle Boat Club 12001 U.S. Highway 441 Tavares, FL 32778 352.533.8398 triangleboatclub.com Venetian Gardens 201 E. Dixie Ave. Leesburg, FL 34748 352.728.9885 leesburgflorida.gov

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VENETIAN GARDENS

201 E. Dixie Avenue, Leesburg 352.728.9885

L O C AT I O N

THE VALENCIA ROOM AT THE CITRUS TOWER

141 N. US Highway 27, Clermont 352.516.2649

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 49

MISSION MISSIONINN INNRESORT RESORT&&CLUB CLUB Lake LakeCounty’s County’sSpecial SpecialOccasion OccasionPlace Place

Take Takepleasure pleasureinina arelaxing relaxingfacial facial orormassage massagewhile whileenjoying enjoyingthe the Mediterranean Mediterraneantranquility tranquilityofof Spa SpaMarbella MarbellaatatMission MissionInn. Inn.

Celebrate a blazing bonfire Celebratearound around a blazing bonfire with associates and withfamily, family,company company associates and friends. day, indulge your friends.During Duringthethe day, indulge your passions of of recreational passionswith witha variety a variety recreational optionsboating, fishing, options-golf, golf,tennis, tennis, boating, fishing, biking, Become biking,spa, spa,and andmore. more.

Become immersed of ofOld immersedininthethecharm charm Old Florida’s Florida’snatural naturalbeauty—Spanish beauty—Spanish moss hangs from ancient oak trees, moss hangs from ancient oak trees, the smell of blooming citrus blossoms the smell of blooming citrus blossoms in spring, a beautiful fall sunset in spring, a beautiful fall sunset across Lake Harris, and a yearlong across Lake Harris, and a yearlong sunny climate typical for this part sunny climate typical for this part of north central Florida. of north central Florida.

A D VE RT ISE M E NT

For over 50 years . . .

the Mission Inn family has provided guests’ a warm and personal experience while a professional staff of chefs, servers, attendants and event coordinators dedicate themselves to every detail of their stay. A popular destination for corporate meetings, weddings, team-building, golf outings, and special holiday programs, the resort hosts more than 650 different events annually with a 74% return rate.

Mission Inn is popular among worldwide travelers and state side visitors alike. The resort is conveniently located near the Florida Turnpike and Interstate 75 just 35 minutes from Orlando International Airport. It is also minutes from Orlando’s world famous amusement parks and popular Lake County attractions including Jones Brothers Seaplane Adventures, Lake Ridge Winery, Yalaha German bakery, and Mt. Dora’s lakeside shops and restaurants.

“This is a place where good times happen often,” says Drew Toth, director of sales and marketing. “As guests return again and again, fond memories abound of past visits with golf buddies, a friend’s wedding day, or a special family vacation.”

Mission Inn is truly Lake County’s special occasion place where memories are born and traditions persist as families come together over the resorts’ sumptuous champagne brunch every Easter, Mother’s Day, Thanksgiving, or Christmas.

Par Excellence

As recently as January 2015, Golf Digest Magazine recognized the two golf courses at Mission Inn among their Top 75 public courses in Florida (El Campeon #29 and Las Colinas #68). Additionally, Golf Advisor’s reader survey ranked El Campeon #1 in the United States for the second time in 6 months. Golf NOW rate it #3 in their Top 10 Orlando courses. Players of all skill levels come to Mission Inn to play their courses Mission Inn Resort is located in Howey-in-the-Hills, Florida just minutes from Orlando. For specially priced golf packages, wedding proposals, or group programs, please visit MissionInnResort.com or call sales at 800-874-9053..

Mission Inn features exceptional dining options, as well as golf, spa and deluxe accommodations.

Enjoy the historic setting of our resort for your next program.

TWO CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSES • SPA • FOUR RESTAURANTS • MARINA TENNIS • AWARD WINNING CULINARY STAFF • OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATIONS

Call 352-324-3101 for Reservations | MissionInnResort.com A D VE RT ISE M E NT

“I love Lake because of the warm people, culture, brick and mortar, Mount Dora, and most of all, SERENITY.”

Debbie Belton

OWNER OF MATAMO DESIGNS Growing up in Hollywood, Florida gave me a love for the ocean, but I fell in love with Lake County after moving to central Florida in 1987. I first worked in the banking/mortgage industry, but my creative side was itching to come out all the while. It was my husband Robert’s push for me to inspire others with my creative designs that incorporate my love of the ocean, along with sustainable furnishings and accents, that led me to open Matamo Designs, a Home Furnishings & Accents store, in downtown Mount Dora in 2008.

100 E. 5th Avenue Mount Dora, FL 32757 352.735.4800 matamodesigns.com

To dine for Great restaurants are prospering throughout Lake County, and the last 12 months have seen a number of unique eateries open. Here's a look at the latest, and in some cases greatest, dining establishments to ďŹ re up ovens in 2014 and 2015.

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 53

GO WHERE THE LOCALS GO

Sterling Restaurant & Lounge 23525 State Road 40 Astor 352.759.3833

You’re new in town. And hungry. And tired of fast food. If only you knew “the” hot spots locals flock to. You could go looking for full restaurant parking lots, but there’s no need to in Lake County.

Every city and town has wonderful places to eat. Here are a few recommendations by people who are in the know: “I would say Hurricane Dockside and Lake Harris Hideaway are my favorite places to eat. What better way to embrace living in Lake County than sitting waterside eating a meal.

I think we need more lakefront restaurants.

— Robert Chandler, Director, Lake County Economic Growth Department “My favorite restaurant in Lake County is Goblin Market. Any dish I’ve ever ordered there has been excellent, and the ambiance is very romantic.”

— Carman Cullen-Batt, Director of the Educational Foundation of Lake County “Cody’s Roadhouse. I’ve never had a bad meal there. Or Cracker Barrel.”

— Beautiful Bobby Blackmon, Entertainer “I like trying various restaurants in Lake County, but the one I go to most often is Angelo’s. The pasta and lasagna are outstanding. I like going there for lunch because you can get in and out quickly and return to work.”

— Emogene Stegall, Lake County Supervisor of Elections “I love Copacabana Cuban Café in Mount Dora because it serves authentic home-style Cuban cuisine.

All the dishes are flavorful and fresh, but I particularly like the chicken and rice. The service is outstanding.”

— Kelda Senior, public information officer for the City of Mount Dora

“I love Red Wing in Groveland.

You won’t find better fish anywhere.

They have fish specials on swordfish, mahi mahi, snapper and grouper.

The restaurant also has a nice casual atmosphere that isn’t stuffy.”

— Sheri Olson, Director of the South Lake Hospital Foundation “Jdance Smokehouse has become my new favorite.”

— Jerome Guions, Owner of Landscaping by Jerome “My favorite restaurant is The Crooked Spoon because of the unusual yet tasty items on the menu.

My family and I dine there several times a month, and my favorite item is the cocoa burger.”

— Sean Parks, Lake County Commissioner District 2

CLERMONT

ASTATULA Race Car Diner 25641 Monroe St. Astatula 352.253.6940

$

Calabria Ristorante 13900 County Road 455 Clermont 407.656.5144

ASTOR Sparky’s Place 24646 State Road 40 Astor 352.759.3551º

Akina Sushi Bar & Asian $$$ Fusion Bistro 4300 S. U.S. Hwy. 27 Clermont 352.243.8988

$$

Cheeser’s Palace 707 W. Montrose St. Clermont 352.404.9431

“Hands down my favorite place is Cheeser’s Palace in downtown Clermont. It has the most AMAZING Tomato Basil soup! I will drive across town to have her soup because no one else’s compares. Even my 11 year old son, Maverick, loves it … he says, “They must be really famous because of their soup!”

— Kalena Meyers, Montverde Academy, Dean of Institutional Advancement “Mason Jar in Umatilla. To find the very best comfort foods you just have to head to the Mason Jar. If you were raised in the South, their menu is as familiar as a pine forest and the smell of citrus blossoms.”

— Gary McKechnie, Owner Coconut Cottage Inn Bed & Breakfast

$$$

L O C AT I O N

ZAB THAI

1660 E. Highway 50, Clermont 352.242.1314

54 WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY

$$

$

Flippers Pizzeria 2523 S. U.S. Hwy. 27 Clermont 352.242.2214

$$

G’s NY Pizza 12346 Roper Blvd.

Clermont 352.243.8900

$$$

Graffiti Junktion 2400 S. Highway 27 Clermont 352.989.5835

$$

Green Garden 1790 E. Hwy. 50 Clermont 352.243.2077

$$

Fine dining, full bar and live music nightly. Hand-cut steaks, pork chops, fish and more are served in a sophisticated atmosphere in one of Eustis’ most distinctive historic buildings.

BARNWOOD BBQ $$ 50 W. Orange Ave. Eustis 352.630.4903 One of the best barbecue masters in the nation has built a following with ribs, smoked brisket, chicken and other barbecue fare. Pitmaster Dan Backhaus’ grilling magic produced a seventh-place finish at the Best-of-the-Best National BBQ Competition.

L O C AT I O N

1884 RESTAURANT AND BAR

HURRICANE GRILL $$ & WINGS 1203 Sunrise Plaza Dr. Clermont 352.242.0567 Wings are served in 35 flavors!

Patrons also flock here for burgers, seafood and tall tropical drinks. The Mahi tacos and seafood rice bowl are favorites.

Legends Grille & Tavern $$$ 1700 Legendary Blvd.

Clermont 352.242.1910 Lyn’s Ice Cream & Sandwich Shoppe 824 W. Montrose St. Clermont 352.536.9935

$

Napolis Pizzeria 556 S. U.S. Hwy. 27 Clermont 352.243.7500

$$

Robata Japanese Steak House and Sushi Bar 1500 Oakley Seaver Drive Clermont 352.404.9688

$$

402 N. Bay Street, Eustis 352.589.5885

Rusty Fox 649 12th St. Clermont 352.394.3333

$$

Sanctuary Ridge Golf Club Restaurant 2601 Diamond Club Drive Clermont 352.243.0411

$$

Spiro’s Pizza 1203 W. Hwy. 50 Clermont 352.394.5538

$$

Sugar Mama’s Bake Shoppe 648 Eighth St. Clermont 352.241.9738

$$

TEXAS ROADHOUSE $$ 2457 S. Highway 27 Clermont 352.242.4441 Hand-cut steaks, ribs, catfish, fried chicken, salads, madefrom-scratch sides, gluten-free items and more are preceded by peanuts and yeast rolls.

Troy’s Cuban Deli 1200 Oakley Seaver Drive Clermont 352.241.4295

$$

ZAB THAI $$ 1660 E. Highway 50 Clermont 352.242.1314 The décor comes straight from various southeast Asian countries, including Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar and Thailand. And so does the food.

Tantalize your taste buds by ordering shrimp, fresh rolls with a creamy homemade peanut sauce, tom kha chicken soup, curries, rice dishes, pad Thai or sushi.

EUSTIS 1884 RESTAURANT AND BAR 12 E. Magnolia Ave. Eustis 800.856.1884

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 55

$$

Cafe Gianni 119 N. Bay St. Eustis 352.589.1402

$$

Dam Smoker Barbeque 36721 County Road 19A Eustis 352.357.6555

$$

Double Take Pizza 403 N. Grove St. Eustis 352.343.0990

$$

El Korita Mexican Restaurant 256 W. Ardice Ave. Eustis 352.483.0355

$

Jeannie’s Place 209 E. Gottsche Ave. Eustis 352.357.0027

$

Kiku Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar 15211 U.S. Hwy. 441 Eustis 352.483.8288

$$$

King’s Taste Bar-B-Que 503 Palmetto St. Eustis 352.589.0404

$$

La Mandarina Mexican Restaurant 1401 Orange Ave. Eustis 352.357.2487

$$

Olivia’s Coffee House & Bistro 113 N. Bay St. Eustis 352.357.1887

Mission Inn Resort & Club’s Nickers 10400 County Rd. 48 Howey-in-the-Hills 352.324.3101

LADY LAKE Harbor Hills Country Club 6538 Lake Griffin Rd. Lady Lake 352.753.7000

L O C AT I O N

$

COUSIN VINNIE'S

10700 US Highway 441, Leesburg 352.253.2442

The Great Pizza Company $$ 23 E. Magnolia Ave. Eustis 352.357.7377

Fruitland Park Café 3180 US Hwy. 441/27 Fruitland Park 352.435.4575

$

$$

The Oyster Troff 936 N. Bay St. Eustis 352.357.9939

Legends Cafe 2468 U.S. Hwy. 441/27 Fruitland Park 352.728.0006

$$

Taki’s Pizza House 2824 S. Bay St. Eustis 352.357.0022

$$

Tony’s Pizza & Subs 2760 E. Orange Ave. Eustis 352.589.9001

Thai Sushi America 925 N. Bay St. Eustis 352.357.1949

$$

Rhythms 12 South Bay St. Eustis 352.308.8396

$$

Stavro’s & Sons of Eustis 2100 W. County Road 44 Eustis 352.589.9100

The Crazy Gator 402 N. Bay St. Eustis 352.589.5885

$$$

$$$$

$$$

$$

FRUITLAND PARK CONFESSORE PASTA $$ CUCINA 2468 Highway 441/27 Fruitland Park 352.431.3814 Decades-old family recipes are the star at this restaurant across from the Fruitland Park Flea Market. Enjoy numerous sauces and a variety of pastas, authentic entrees and homemade garlic bread. Made-fromscratch desserts include ricotta cheesecake.

$$$

HOWEY-IN-THE-HILLS JB Boondocks Bar & Grill $$ 704 S. Lakeshore Blvd.

Howey-in-the-Hills 352.324.3600 Mission Inn Resort & $$$$ Club’s El Conquistador 10400 County Rd. 48 Howey-in-the-Hills 352.324.3101

56 WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY

Mom & Dad’s Italian Restaurant 504 S. U.S. Hwy. 441/27 Lady Lake 352.753.2722

$$

Texas Stockyard BBQ 360 S. U.S. Hwy. 441 Lady Lake 352.750.5229

$$

LEESBURG

GROVELAND Red Wing Restaurant 12500 S. State Road 33 Groveland 352.429.2997

$$$

Bloom’s Baking House and Restaurant 610 W. Main St. Leesburg 352.787.1004

$$

Cedar River Seafood 8609 S. U.S. Hwy. 441 Leesburg 352.728.3377

$$

Cupcake Time 703 W. Main St. Leesburg 352.728.2253

$$

DANDY’S SANDWICH $ COMPANY 314 W. Main St. Leesburg 352.314.3602 Premium quality meats and cheeses make for awesome sandwiches, but Dandy’s also serves super soups like chicken kale. And the servers are friendly and attentive. Try the Yellow

Jacket — roast beef, cheddar cheese and horseradish on a pretzel roll.

Gator Bay Bar & Grill 10320 County Road 44 Leesburg 352.365.2177

$$

Habaneros 3 Mexican Restaurant 10601 U.S. Hwy. 441 Leesburg 352.315.1777

$$

HP Grill 1403 S. 14th St. Leesburg 352.314.0006

$

JDANCE SMOKEHOUSE $$ 1707 South St. Leesburg 352.801.8885

Leesburg High School grad John Dance is back in town after operating award-winning BBQ restaurants in Kentucky and Texas. And he’s literally smoking — brisket, ribs, chopped pork, chicken, sausage and sides.

Kountry Kitchen 1008 W. Dixie Ave. Leesburg 352.323.0852

$

Lilly’s Super Subs 2339 County Road 473 Leesburg 352.343.4663

$

Magnolia’s Oyster Bar 201 W. Magnolia St. Leesburg 352.323.0093

$$

L O C AT I O N

THE GOBLIN MARKET

Naples Italian Restaurant $$ 1107 W. North Blvd.

Leesburg 352.323.1616 Osaka 1401 Citrus Blvd.

Leesburg 352.728.0788

$$

San Juan Mexican Restaurant 1341 S. 14th St. Leesburg 352.787.7575

$$

Rainbow Restaurant 704 E. Myers Blvd.

Mascotte 352.429.2093

SIP JAZZ AND $$$ WINE BAR 707 W. Main St. Leesburg 352.435.7840 Salads, paninis and a large selection of wines and beer are complemented by live jazz and blues music in a swanky atmosphere. There’s no other place like it in Leesburg.

Stavros Pizza 755 N. 14th St. Leesburg 352.326.4202

$$

Takis Pizza Restaurant 1324 W. North Blvd.

Leesburg 352.787.2344

$$

The Florida Porch Café 706 W. Main St. Leesburg 352.365.1717

$$

The Latin Cafe 400 N. 14th St. Leesburg 352.365.0089

$$

Two Old Hags Wine Shoppe 410 W Main St Leesburg 352.435.9107

$$

330 Dora Drawdy Way, Mount Dora 352.735.0059

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 57

MASCOTTE $$

MINNEOLA Jack’s Barbecue 100 S. U.S. Hwy. 27 Minneola 352.394.2673

$

Lil Anthony’s Pizza 205 N. U.S. Hwy. 27 Minneola 352.394.1516

$$

Tiki Bar & Grill 508 S. Main Ave. Minneola 352.394.2232

$

MOUNT DORA Anthony’s Pizza 17195 U.S. Hwy. 441 Mount Dora 352.357.6668

$

Beauclaire Restaurant at $$$ Lakeside Inn 100 N. Alexander St. Mount Dora 352.383.4101 BEEF O’BRADY’S $ 6551 N. Orange Blossom Trail Mount Dora 352.735.3810 Drink and food specials daily.

Wings are available in 12 sauces; diners can also feast on burgers and other family favorites. Daily

specials include $5.49 Burger Mondays and Taco Tuesdays.

Also enjoy pizza and shortbreads at this popular sports bar.

Copacabana Cuban Cafe 320 Dora Drawdy Way Mount Dora 352.385.9000

Blackbear Smokehouse 18750 U.S. Hwy. 441 Mount Dora 352.383.2327

Cupcake Delights 122 E. 4th Ave. Mount Dora 352.383.2200

$

Highland Street Café 185 S. Highland St. Mount Dora 352.383.1446

$

Bocce Pizzeria 925 E. First Ave. Mount Dora 352.385.0067 Cecile’s French Corner 237 W. Fourth Ave. Mount Dora 352.383.7100 Cody’s on 4th Cafe 111 E. 4th Ave. Mount Dora 352.735.8426

$$

$

$$

$

$$

Incredible Edible Cakes $ 4295 W. Old Hwy. 441, Suite 2 Mount Dora 352.223.3581 Ivory’s Take Out 1325 N. Grandview St. Mount Dora 352.735.6797

$

Jeremiah’s 500 N. Highland St. Mount Dora 352.383.7444

$

JERSEY MIKES SUBS $ 17256 Highway 441 Mount Dora 352.729.2509 More than two dozen hot and cold subs and wraps, kid’s meals, and Jersey Mike’s one-of-a-kind “Sub in a Tub” salad.

Lisa’s Kitchen 3201 N. Hwy. 19A Mount Dora 352.383.9338

$$

MAGICAL MEAT $$ BOUTIQUE 112 W. 3rd Avenue Mount Dora 352.729.6911 British-style carvery featuring beef, pork, turkey and lamb.

British sausages made in house daily. Fish and chips, prawn cocktail crisps, Scotch egg, white pudding and bangers and mash. Casual atmosphere and a patio. Extra-cold British beer.

L O C AT I O N

MELLOW MUSHROOM

18221 US 441, Mount Dora 352.735.8257

MELLOW MUSHROOM $$ 18221 US 441 Mount Dora 352.735.8257 Upscale and artisan pizzas include the Bayou Bleu (spicy bleu cheese base topped with grilled shrimp, Andouille sausage, mozzarella and chives).

Other menu items include hoagies, calzones, salads and more. There are daily drink specials offered at the bar and also a kid’s menu.

58 WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY

MR. CEBICHE $$ 411 N. Donnelly St. Mount Dora 352.735.8106 Peruvian! You won’t find two menus like this in Lake County.

Try the triple clasico, which includes four slices of bread, cream of mayonnaise, tomato, avocado and chicken (or tuna or egg salad), Lomo Saltado — marinated strips of sirloin, stir-fried with tomatoes, onions, cilantro and sweet peppers on top of French fries.

Mount Dora Pizza & Subs 2718 W. Old U.S. Hwy. 441 Mount Dora 352.383.5303

$

One Flight Up – Coffee, $ Dessert & Wine Bar 440 N. Donnelly St., Suite 100 Mount Dora 352.758.9818 Operation Deep Freeze Custard 140A West 5 Avenue Mount Dora 352.735.8269

$

Pisces Rising 239 W. Fourth Ave. Mount Dora 352.385.2669

$$$

PizzAmore’ 622 N. Donnelly St. Mount Dora 352.383.0092

$

Saucy Spoon Catering & Bistro 427 S. Highland St. Mount Dora 352.383.1050

$$$

Sidelines Sport Eatery 315 N. Highland St. Mount Dora 352.735.7433

$

TAVARES Angelo’s Italian Restaurant $$ 2270 Vindale Rd. Tavares 352.343.2757 Buzzard Beach Grill 12423 U.S. Hwy. 441 Tavares 352.253.5267

L O C AT I O N

QUARTERDECK

831 S. Central Avenue, Umatilla 352.669.4662

Sugarboo’s Bar-B-Que 1305 N. Grandview St. Mount Dora 352.735.7675

$

The Frog and Monkey Pub $$ 411 N. Donnelly St. Mount Dora 352.383.1936 The Health Basket of Mount Dora 18040 U.S. Hwy. 441 Mount Dora 352.735.1166

$$

The Windsor Rose English Tea Room 142 W. Fourth Ave. Mount Dora 352.735.2551

$$

Village Coffee Pot 425 Donnelly St. Mount Dora 352.383.3334

$

Wasabi Buffet 16700 U.S. Hwy. 441 Mount Dora 352.383.7016

$$

Whales Tale Fish House $$ 2720 W. Old. U.S. Hwy. 441 Mount Dora 352.385.1500 Zellie’s Pub 4025 N. U.S. Hwy. 19A Mount Dora 352.483.3855

$$

SORRENTO Del Franco Pizza Place 31436 County Rd. 437 Sorrento 352.383.8882

$

Gi Gi’s 25444 State Road 46 Sorrento 352.735.4000

$$

Lisa’s Country Cafe 23911 State Road 46 Sorrento 352.735.3380

$

$$

HURRICANE GRILL $$ & WINGS 3351 W. Burleigh Blvd.

Tavares 352.508.5137 Wings served in 35 flavors!

The restaurant also offers burgers, seafood and a kick-offyour-shoes atmosphere on the waterfront. The Mahi tacos are recommended. Sand volleyball and TVs for sports fans. Take advantage of the full bar and happy hour specials.

Lake Dora Sushi & Sake 227 E. Main St. Tavares 352.343.6313

$$

Mary’s Kountry Kitchen 15945 County Road 448 Tavares 352.343.6823

$

Pressed for Time Cafe 505 W. Main St. Tavares 352.253.4663

$

Sinbad’s of Lake County 1050 W. Burleigh Blvd.

Tavares 352.343.6669

Sunrise Grill 462 E. Burleigh Blvd.

Tavares 352.343.7744

$

The Hideaway 11912 Lane Park Rd. Tavares 352.343.3585

$$

Tiki West Raw Bar and Grill 118 W. Ruby St. Tavares 352.508.5783

$$

UMATILLA The Mason Jar 37534 State Rd. 19 Umatilla 352.589.2535

Old Crow Real Pit Bar-B-Q $ 41100 State Road 19 Umatilla 352.669.3922 Quarterdeck 831 S. Central Ave. Umatilla 352.669.4662

$$

L O C AT I O N

RUBY STREET GRILLE

221 E. Ruby Street, Tavares 352.742.7829

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 59

$$

$$$

“I love Lake for its natural beauty. As an avid paddle boarder, I enjoy the lakes, streams and springs. I’d like to see our growth managed wisely so that my kids can enjoy them as well.”

Danielle Spears LEAD PHYSICIAN LIAISON My career at Florida Cancer Specialists (FCS) enables me to educate referring physicians, community partners, patients and local residents about the fact that world-class oncology care is available right here in Lake County. At FCS, our primary purpose — and our passion — is to provide the most advanced cancer treatment, using cutting-edge technologies, in a setting where patients can be close to home and surrounded by family and friends. As a lifelong Lake resident, I am proud our county has the vision to support businesses that value our ongoing sense of community.

Offices in Tavares, Leesburg, Clermont and The Villages FLCancer.com

To your health

The hospitals, treatment facilities, rehabilitation programs and physicians in Lake County are among the best in the nation. In fact, each of the county's four hospitals received high praise from the medical profession.

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 61

HEALTH CARE ON THE CUTTING-EDGE WHEN IT COMES TO WELLNESS

FLORIDA HOSPITAL WATERMAN 1000 Waterman Way Tavares 352.253.3333 fhwat.org

T

he staffs of each facility are committed to improving by offering new services and programs and/or expanding their facilities to meet the growing needs of the community while providing the highest level of care and service.

Each hospital offers exceptional specialties. Here’s a snapshot of the specialized services each provides:

62 WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY

This 269-bed full-service community hospital is best known for its Cancer Institute, which received a three-year accreditation by the Commission on Cancer of The American College of Surgeons in January 2015.

In addition, Florida Hospital Waterman is the only Central Florida hospital to be honored

by The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program for meritorious outcomes for surgical patient care. These national honors show why Florida Hospital Waterman is among the best in the nation. Its top-notch staff of 280 physicians and 15,000 employees treat more than 14,000 inpatients and 50,000 outpatients through its emergency department annually.

LEESBURG REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 600 E. Dixie Avenue Leesburg 352.323.5762 cfhalliance.org Part of the Central Florida Health Alliance, Leesburg Regional Medical Center (LRMC) has served the greater Central Florida community for more than 50 years. Today, LRMC continues to set the benchmark for clinical quality and personalized health care

services. LRMC has received the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for health care quality and safety in hospitals. It also is recognized by the commission as a Primary Stroke Center. In 2014, Healthgrades presented LRMC with the Patient Safety Excellence Award, and Becker’s Hospital Review named LRMC among the Top 100 Hospitals with Great Women’s Health Programs.

Expansion has created space for more services and programs and ensured the hospital offers the latest surgical and diagnostic technology attainable.

LRMC recently opened the new Urgent Care Center on the hospital grounds. An additional 25 private patient rooms are planned for 2015.

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 63

SOUTH LAKE HOSPITAL 1900 Don Wickham Drive Clermont 352.394.4071 southlakehospital.org South Lake Hospital is committed to patient-centered continuous care that provides peace of mind from diagnosis to recovery. The facilities, leadingedge treatments and procedures, and highly skilled staff make the hospital a remarkable health care institution.

Specialties include: The Center for Women’s Health, which provides complete care from maternity to maturity; the LiveWell Fitness Center and the National Training Center for total body fitness; and advanced rehabilitation services and athletic services.

South Lake Hospital’s most unique program likely is the Wound Care Center, which specializes in treatment of problem wounds associated with diabetes, venous insufficiency, trauma and more.

The center features state-of-theart hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), in which patients breathe 100 percent oxygen inside a pressurized chamber.

HBOT rapidly transports high concentrations of oxygen to the bloodstream and aids in healing wounds. It also is highly successful in fighting certain types of infections, stimulates growth of new blood vessels and improves circulation.

HBOT also is used to treat crash injuries, osteomyelitis, skin grafts and flaps, and diabetic wounds to the lower extremity.

URGENT CARE LOCATIONS Paramount Urgent Care 805 E. County Road 486 Lady Lake 352.674.9218

Lake Regional Urgent Care 16890 U.S. Hwy. 441 Mount Dora 352.385.4404

Mount Dora Centra Care 19015 U.S. Hwy. 441 Mount Dora 352.383.3484

Clermont Centra Care 15701 State Hwy. 50 Suite 101 Clermont 352.394.7757

Leesburg Regional Urgent Care 550 E. Dixie Ave. Leesburg 352.323.2273

Express Care of Leesburg 2500 Citrus Blvd.

Leesburg 352.728.5335

The Doc’s In 210 North Hwy. 27 Suite 4 Clermont 352.243.4800

Leesburg Regional Riverside Urgent Care 3631 W. Burleigh Blvd.

Tavares 352.323.5762

Lake Regional Urgent Care 8404 U.S. Hwy. 441 Leesburg 352.315.8881

64 WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY

LA KE BUSINESS INTRODUCING

LAKE BUSINESS MAGAZINE Featuring executives, business owners and community leaders in — and reports important information regarding the economics of — Lake County and surrounding areas.

Published quarterly.

Look for the latest information at LAKE B US I N E SS MAGAZ I N E.COM

“I love Lake because, when I moved here 25 years ago, I could not believe how friendly the people are here in Lake County. Nicest place I’ve ever been or lived.”

Blaine Gerrit Vermeulen

PUBLIC INSURANCE ADJUSTER Have you been displaced from your home due to unforeseeable damages? Call me for a free consultation immediately! When filing an insurance claim for property damage, there is no better person to call than Blaine Vermeulen. “Insurance adjusters work for the insurance company; who’s working for you?” Government accountability concluded that public adjusters help clients receive a 741 percent higher settlement. A public adjuster is a claims specialist who interprets policy, assesses repair cost, and negotiates with the insurance company until a claim is settled. Let Blaine with his expertise work for you to obtain the highest claim settlement you are entitled to. “I come for a free, no-pressure consultation. I only get paid if I produce.”

License Number A273309 240 South Highland Street Mt Dora, FL 32757-5735 352.383.5735 vermeulenassociates.com

Shop to it When it comes to shopping and antiquing, Lake County is unbeatable. Whether you’re seeking antique furniture or jewelry, primitives or fine art, the objects of your desires can be found right here.

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 67

RETAIL

SUPER SHOPPING NO MATTER WHERE YOU GO

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usiness is booming throughout Lake County as an influx of new retailers ring up considerable sales and longestablished stores expand, diversify and continue to provide bargains and value.

Shoppers will be pleased with the variety of goods offered at dozens of quaint and unique shops in revitalized downtowns in Leesburg, Mount Dora, Eustis, Tavares and Clermont.

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LEESBURG Retail rebirth nearly is complete in Leesburg, where a $3.8 million project is transforming the Main Street corridor with asphalt resurfacing, decorative sidewalks, crosswalks and streetlights, a large entry feature at the intersection of U.S. 27, and upgraded water and sewer lines and stormwater collection.

Contrary to reports citing demise, the Lake Square Mall is alive. In fact, vital signs are improving as new owners try to reverse an exodus of oncepopular retailers.

The mall has new eateries and stores, including The I Want That! toy store, Cuba Pichy’s Cuisine, Fabulous Finds furniture store and Style of Life. A kids zone will be added and the food court has been renovated. In addition, discussions are underway to revamp the AMC 12-screen movie theatre.

Nearby, business is booming at a new Goodwill retail store.

MOUNT DORA Mount Dora is moving into the third phase of its downtown streetscape project.

New businesses include the Spice & Tea Exchange and

Mermaid Juice Antique Shop.

And things are hopping on the outskirts as well. The big news: The former K-Mart is now occupied by TJ Maxx and Ross Dress For Less.

CLERMONT In Clermont, Dick’s Sporting Goods recently opened.

These are just a few shopping opportunities recently added to an already diverse list.

But it’s old, not new, that really makes Lake County a shopper’s paradise. You’ve hit the jackpot if you favor antique stores and malls, thrift shops and consignment shops.

So fill up the gas tank and head out. Bargains await you!

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ANTIQUES HIDDEN TREASURES AWAIT

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or a fruitful day of finding hidden treasures, visit one of many shops in the county or take a walk through one of several antique markets stocked by an array of vendors.

Antiques, collectibles and other unique merchandise are offered for sale at shops throughout the county. Here’s a listing of some of the most popular one-of-a-kind stores in Lake County:

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Another Look Upscale Consignment Boutique 609 W. Main St. Leesburg, FL 352.323.3396

Doggibags 601 W. Main St. Leesburg, FL 352.326.8090

CLERMONT / MINNEOLA

Main Street Antiques Mall 201 W. Main St. Leesburg, FL 352.460.4806

Vintage View 789 W. Montrose St. Clermont, FL 352.243.9977

Victoria’s Antique Warehouse

Hen’s Nest 127 W. Washington St. Minneola, FL 352.242.9484

113 N. 7th St. Leesburg, FL 352.728.8668

EUSTIS

MOUNT DORA

3rd Generation Antiques, Inc.

Benton’s Antiques 354 N. Highland St. Mount Dora, FL 352.735.2790

121 N. Bay St. Eustis, FL 352.483.4367

Curiosity Shop 20651 U.S. Highway 441 Mount Dora, FL 863.381.0675

Old South Stained Glass & Antique Mall 320 S. Grove St. Eustis, FL 352.589.0034

Kadeekay Gourment Kitchen Products 237 W. 4th Ave., Suite 2 Mount Dora, FL 352.383.3600

Peddler’s Wagon 25 E. Magnolia Ave. Eustis, FL 352.483.2797

Legacies Antique Books & More

Inspired 365

137 N. Highland St. Mount Dora, FL 352.729.2677

1400 S. Bay St. Eustis, FL 352.483.7467

LEESBURG Alada’s China & Gifts 415 W. Main St. Leesburg, FL 352.728.0033

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LEGACIES ANTIQUE BOOKS & MORE

137 North Highland St., Mount Dora 352.729.2677

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Oliver’s Twist Antiques, Estate Sales and Appraisals 404 N. Donnelly St. Mount Dora, FL 352.735.3337

Renninger’s Antiques Center 20651 U.S. Highway 441 Mount Dora, FL 352.383.8393

Unique Antiques & Collectibles 20651 U.S. Highway 441 Mount Dora, FL 772.215.1680

Victorian Gallery, Inc. 20651 U.S. Highway 441 Mount Dora, FL 407.896.9346

Village Antique Mall 405 N. Highland St. Mount Dora, FL 352.385.0257

Zen Cowgirl 411 N. Donnelly St., Suite 107 352.223.3246

TAVARES Through The Years Vintage Market 102 E. Alfred St. Tavares, FL 352.508.9727

Hoity Toity Mercantile 206 W. Main St. Tavares, FL 352.205.5992

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RENNINGER'S ANTIQUES CENTER

20651U.S. Highway 441, Mount Dora 352.383.8393

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Pick a month, any month. Choose a community, any community. Lake is full of special places for those who want to delight their senses or expand their knowledge.

Attractions

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INDOORS

RAIN OR SHINE, YOU CAN HAVE A BIG TIME

You’ll find preserved artifacts from the 1880s to the 1930s when you visit the first firehouse and city jail in historic Mount Dora. You will gain a sense of the trials and triumphs of those who lived during that time from maps and photos of trains entering the city, postal relics, a ballot box from the first mayoral election and an early 1900s hand-drawn fire hose cart. Numerous artifacts depict typical home life, schooling, citrus farming, clothing, guns and air rifles. Original artwork hangs in restored jail cells. This is the place for you if you love history and relics.

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udden downpours and sweltering heat occasionally keep us indoors, but that can be a good thing in Lake County.

There are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy year-round.

Take in some art, learn about vintage carriages and local history, or throw caution to the wind and experience an indoor trampoline park. No matter what you choose, the venues listed below are open, rain and shine.

Mount Dora History Museum 450 Royellou Lane Mount Dora, FL 32757 352.383.0006 mountdorahistorymuseum. com Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 1 – 4p.m.

Admission: Adults $2; Students $1

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The Grand Oaks Carriage Museum 3000 Marion County Road Lady Lake, FL 32159 352.750.5500 thegrandoaks.com/museum Hours: 10a.m. – 4p.m. daily Admission: Adults, $12.50; Children 4–12, $6.25; Children under 4, Free Step back in time to when the horse was the favored mode of transportation. The Grand Oaks Carriage Museum is home to one of the world’s largest private collections of carriages and equine artifacts. Over 160 American- and Europeanconstructed carriages are on glorious display, including an English Omnibus, a World War I supply wagon, a Sicilian Caretta and a Dutch Tikker. Located at Grand Oaks Resort, amid majestic oaks and gently rolling pastures of Florida’s horse

country, the museum uniquely offers a glimpse into the history of the relationship between man and horse and clearly defines the manner in which the horse has helped shape the history of man. Tours and carriage rides are available for an additional fee. Stop by The Bistro and enjoy a refreshing meal.

Sky Zone Trampoline Park 2510 S. U.S. Highway 27 Clermont, FL 34711 352.404.4134 skyzone.com/clermont Hours: Tuesday and Thursday, 9a.m.– 8p.m.; Wednesday, 11a.m.– 8p.m.; Friday, Noon– 10p.m.; Saturday, 10a.m.– 11p.m.; Sunday, 1–7p.m. (Call for specific activities) Admission: 30-min. jump: $10, 60-min. jump: $14, 90-min. jump: $18, 120-min. jump: $20

(Skysocks $2) This indoor trampoline park may seem like a kids-only zone, but it is big fun for all ages. Sky Zone consists of wall-to-wall trampolines and the amount of fun is almost limitless. Jump, flip, fly, bounce and twirl to your heart’s content.

There are a variety of activities, including Open Jump, Ultimate Dodgeball, Toddler Time, Jumpapalooza, Sky Robics and more. As an added bonus, you can skip your workout for the day.

Mount Dora Museum of Speed 206 N. Highland St. Mount Dora, FL 32757 352.385.0049 classicdreamcars.com Hours: Monday – Friday, 10a.m. – 5p.m.

Admission: $10 (no children under age 14 admitted)

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GRAND OAKS CARRIAGE MUSEUM

3000 Marion County Road, Lady Lake 352.750.5500 Thegrandoaks.com/museum

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Voted Mount Dora’s top attraction two years in a row, the Mount Dora Museum of Speed boasts a vintage collection to send you down memory lane.

As you would expect, vintage American and European muscle cars adorn this small museum, but what you don’t expect will surprise you. The museum has 45-plus years of auto memorabilia, including a 1948 Full Midget Race car by Floyd Trevis, vintage clothing, road signs, WWI and WWII uniforms and famously autographed instruments from Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jeff Beck, Eric Clapton, Aerosmith, Ozzy Ozbourne, Montgomery & Gentry, Bon Jovi, The Rolling Stones and other greats.

Paquette’s Historical Farmall Tractor Museum 615 S. Whitney Road Leesburg, FL, 34748 352.728.3588 stewsihstuff.com Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 9a.m. – 4p.m.

Admission: Adults, $15; Children 10 and under, free Beautifully located on a 50acre buffalo ranch and ranked Leesburg’s No. 1 attraction by Trip Advisor, the Paquette’s Historical Farmall Tractor Museum is dedicated to the preservation of the International Harvestor farming and construction equipment. Expect to find fully restored Farmall

tractors for a country mile.

Explore other vintage farm equipment, such as combines, cotton pickers, refrigerators and more as you make your way through three large tractor barns. Tour a replica 1940s International Harvestor dealership, fully stocked with parts, equipment and tools.

Friendly and helpful guides will ensure this to be a crowdpleaser for all ages.

Lake Square Laser Tag And Putt Putt Golf 10837 U.S. Highway 441 Unit # 2 Leesburg, FL 34788 352.742.4569

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LAKE SQUARE LASER TAG AND PUTT PUTT GOLF

10837 U.S. Highway 441, Unit #2, Leesburg 352.742.4569 Indoorputtputt.com

indoorputtputt.com Hours: (During school year) Tuesday – Thursday, 3 – 7p.m.; Friday, 3 – 10p.m.; Saturday, 10a.m. – 10p.m.; Sunday, 1 – 5p.m. (Summer hours) Same days, open at noon Tuesday – Friday Admission: Prices start at $10 for two games for children 4–10, $11 for adults. Ask about specials and group rates.

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This indoor glow-in-the-dark miniature golf and laser tag facility is a great place for all ages to show off their skills.

In addition, you can play air hockey, pool and arcade games. This unique atmosphere encourages good, old-fashioned fun and friendly interaction with others. Enjoy all of this under black light. Don’t forget to wear white or neon colors.

FESTIVALS LAKE COUNTY GETS FESTIVE

from all over the country to experience the epic rides Central Florida has to offer and enjoy a tight knit community of fellow riders. Look forward to “Puddle of Mudd” as one of the event’s headliners. Bikers and custom builders show off hot new rides and vendors provide a huge selection of everything from bike accessories to biker-themed jewelry. Visit the website for a full concert schedule, vendor list and event calendar.

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arm climate with cool breezes, historic downtowns, rolling hills and trails and plentiful sites for outdoor recreation make Lake County ideal for festivals that provide opportunities for enrichment, community building and just plain fun.

Here’s a look at events you’ll want to place on your calendar:

19th Annual Leesburg Bikefest Location: Downtown Leesburg Dates: April 24-26, 2015 Cost: Free leesburgbikefest.com The world’s largest three-day motorcycle and music event has become much more than a local gathering of two-wheel enthusiasts. Bikers travel

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4th Annual Wings and Wildflowers Festival Location: Venetian Gardens, Leesburg Dates: October 2-4, 2015 Cost: Free. Some special events available for a fee. wingsandwildflowers.com Devout birders and budding ornithologists rejoice! The Wings and Wildflowers Festival is a mecca for bird lovers.

Find everything from talks with expert naturalists, bird photography lessons, and trips to some of Lake County’s prime birding spots. This festival is a great place to start for those looking to get into the “birding scene” in Lake County.

Find excellent resources on the best parks and preserves, what species to look for, and conservation organizations working to protect the vibrant biodiversity here in Central Florida. Visit the website for the most recent information on guest speakers and field trip locations.

41st Annual Mount Dora Bicycle Festival Location: Downtown Mount Dora Dates: October 9-11, 2015 Cost: Free mountdorabicyclefestival.com With rolling hills and an active community of resident riders, Mount Dora is a natural location for the bicycle festival.

Thousands of cyclists gather here

to participate in rides all around Central Florida. With varying degrees of distance and difficulty offered, everyone can find an exciting ride and a passionate group to roll with. Vendors selling cycling gear, handmade crafts and a wide variety of food will fill the streets. The website contains information on planned rides and other information.

17th Annual Lake County Folk Festival Location: Downtown Eustis Dates: October 10-11, 2015 Cost: Free lakecountyfolkfest.org Join folk lovers from all over the state who gather to hear talented musicians play at various venues throughout downtown Eustis. The Lake County Folk Festival is “one of

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the longest running free festivals in the state, and we plan to keep it that way” said Jeff Friberg, who founded the event. “It fills the whole town with music and a sense of camaraderie.” Check out the festival website for upto-date information on venues, participating musicians or to apply to be a performer.

31st Annual Mount Dora Craft Fair Location: Downtown Mount Dora Dates: October 24-25, 2015 Cost: Free mountdoracraftfair.com Ideally timed for holiday shopping, this immensely popular event lets festivalgoers peruse unique and local wares while meeting truly talented artists. Exhibitors lining the streets showcase an unparalleled expression of creativity and craftsmanship. Also, enjoy a delicious selection of festival foods, from organic smoothies to mouth-watering BBQ. 41st Annual Mount Dora Arts Festival Location: Downtown Mount Dora Dates: February 2016 Cost: Free mountdoracenterforthearts. org/arts-festival The festival’s wide selection of fine art and gourmet foods will impress even the most discerning art collector – 285 artists will showcase their talents to over 250,000 expected attendees. The charming, Victorian architecture and welcoming atmosphere of downtown Mount Dora make it a great place to appreciate the variety of artwork. Find

a map of the festival (crucial for finding restrooms and ATM’s), listings of exhibits, and volunteer opportunities on the website.

114th Annual GeorgeFest Location: Downtown Eustis Dates: February 27March 1, 2016 Cost: Free eustischamber.org/GeorgeFest Celebrate the birth of our nation’s first president with ferris wheels, fireworks and upbeat music as the City of Eustis shows that it knows how to throw a party worthy of a president. Friday night, enjoy a variety of carnival rides and live music downtown.

On Saturday morning, local clubs and organizations display their patriotic spirit in the grand parade.

The 29th Annual Sunnyland Antique Boat Festival Location: Wooten Park, Tavares Dates: March 2016 Cost: $5 for adults, $3 for children acbs-sunnyland.org The exquisite craftsmanship of antique boats, along with passionate owners dedicated to showroom-quality restoration draw crowds of people to this three-day event on the shores of Lake Dora. This festival brings together a community of boat lovers who love to discuss, admire and enjoy these beautiful pieces of American history. Boat aficionados will appreciate the nautical themed flea market and assortment of live music.

For a complete list of happenings in Lake County along with information on other festivals around town, check out lakecountyfl.gov/calendar.

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ARTS

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES DISPLAY COUNTY'S CONSIDERABLE CULTURE

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or an area that’s known for great outdoors, Lake County certainly has plenty to offer those who enjoy visual and performance arts.

Venues throughout the county provide exhibitions of esteemed fine art and performance, but also promote and support the work and education of local and regional artists.

Art Deco modernist furniture design, also known as the Studio Art Movement, is at the forefront of visionary expressionism in the visual arts.

How fortunate then, to have a museum dedicated to the genre here in Lake County of the same caliber as the Museum of Modern Art in New York, Vitra Design Museum in Weil am Rein, Germany, and Les

Arts Décoratif in Paris, France – the new MODERNISM MUSEUM MOUNT DORA. The Modernism Museum has resonated with artists and art aficionados since opening in October 2013. Visitors arrived en masse for the premier exhibit: Wharton to Wendell, a celebration of pioneering icons Wharton Esherick and Wendell Castle.

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This unique museum exists due to the hard work and dedication of a team of people, museum sponsor Main Street Leasing, an anonymous private collector who donated the collection and by the museum’s distinctive board. Members John Sollo, David Rago and Suzanne Perrault are authorities on 20th century decorative arts and furnishings and who also are appraisers for the television show “Antiques Roadshow”.

Paul Eisenhauer, curator of the Wharton Esherick Museum and Robert “Bob” Aibel, founder and owner of the Moderne Gallery in Philadelphia also helped start the museum.

Known for many years as a quaint antique town, Mount Dora has been morphing over the years as a fine arts and crafts community. As such, more galleries are opening all the time. Several artists have set up studios. The transition has many local supporters, like Michele Giancola. “Let’s get behind what this town is trying to build – the image and destination it wants to become — as a bona fide fine arts destination,” she implores.

The Modernism Museum features usable art such as the one-of-a-kind Steinway piano designed by Castle, known as “The Caligari.” The whimsically designed piano can be played, and has been. A few times a year, the museum’s gallery is transformed into a mini concert hall for intimate evenings of jazz. Castle has created unique pieces like the Calgari piano for more than five decades, consistently challenging the traditional boundaries of functional design and establishing himself as the Father of the American Studio Art Movement.

Michelle Giancola, managing director of the Modernism Museum, credits the premier exhibit as triggering the museum’s phenomenal success.

“We initially planned to host the opening exhibit for six to

nine months, but the Wharton to Wendell exhibit received so much acclaim nationwide – primarily because these two artists are icons in the modernism movement, and also because the number of pieces in the exhibit will never be seen together again combined under one roof – we extended the run,” Giancola said. Fortunately, many of those works remain in the gallery as part of the permanent collection.

The museum’s new exhibit, Esherick to Nakashima, adds George Nakashima, an internationally acclaimed woodworker honored by the American Institute of Architects. A series of work by esteemed artists Sam Maloof, Arthur Espenet Carpenter, and Albert Paley will showcase their influences and individual styles in the fall of 2015.

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MODERNISM MUSEUM MOUNT DORA

145 East Fourth Ave. Mount Dora, FL 352.385.0034 Modernismmuseum.org

Mount Dora captured the national spotlight as a genuine arts destination through the MOUNT DORA CENTER FOR THE ARTS signature event: the Fine Arts Festival, held annually during the first week of February.

The combination of New England architecture of downtown Mount Dora and breathtaking views of Lake Dora serve as the ideal backdrop for the scenic event, now in its 40th year. The festival consists of endless rows of various fine art mediums, such as oil paintings, watercolors, acrylics, clay, sculpture and photography and local and regional musicians dotting the canvas from each end of town to center stage at Donnelly Park.

According to Beth Miller, executive co-chair of Mount Dora Center, the festival boasts 285 participating artists and 300,000 annual visitors. It has been listed among the top 100 festivals in the nation by Sunshine Artists and the top 20 for Central Florida. “The festival is the cornerstone of the organization,” she said. For the 40th anniversary, organizers

added a scavenger hunt of selected artwork.

Mount Dora Center For the Arts serves an important role for the blossoming fine arts community. The oldest art center in the county offers educational programs, exhibits and a seven-week summer camp for children, many on scholarship.

The center’s coop system allows local artists to rent space to exhibit and sell their work in a building owned by the center, separate from the gallery.

The center hosts six to eight annual exhibits, in addition to exhibits for members. Exhibits for spring 2015 include the MDCA Photography Club contest and exhibit and “You are Here” – work by Russell Thurston – Best of Show winner of last year’s caustic exhibit “Big Bad Wax.” The summer roster features “Shape and Shadow,” a national juried still life art show and “Raw and Ardor,” an exhibit of raw or outsider art, in collaboration with Coalition Ingénue. The fall features Conceptual Journeys”

by Peter Fitzmaier and Jack King, “Bravo” and “Pastel Society.”

PHOTO: JEFFREY PHILLIPS

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MOUNT DORA CENTER FOR THE ARTS

138 E. Fifth Ave. Mount Dora, FL 352.383.0880 Mountdoracenterforthearts.org

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Founded 20 years ago, the LAKE EUSTIS MUSEUM OF ART mission remains “dedicated to the exhibition and collection of fine art and the presentation of museum-quality art education programming to enrich culture and enhance the economic development of our diverse community.”

Simply put, it is the first dedicated art museum in Lake County. “Strictly visual arts, as opposed to performance art or other art activity, meaning painting, sculpture, drawing, and print making,” specified Executive Director Richard Colvin. In 1995, a group of like-minded individuals created a center designed for art activities for the Eustis area.

One year later, they decided the center should become a museum. So it is structured like an art center, but is designated as a museum due to the permanent collection and efforts toward the preservation of art.

In carrying out its primary mission – the exhibition of

museum quality art with an emphasis on contemporary art – Lake Eustis presents six to eight exhibits per year by local, regional or historic artists.

Exhibits for 2015 include the hyper-realistic still life work of Lee Bianco, a contemporary realist painter, whose work is known as Trompe-l’œil, French for “Fool the Eye,” and the ceramic work of sculptor, Lois Stolber. An exhibit of autistic artists follows.

In carrying out its mission for the collection of fine art, the museum has a permanent collection of 250 pieces.

Selected items are on display most summers. This year, items will be on display from June through September.

The museum provides art classes for adults and is in the process of developing classes for children. Instruction in oil, acrylic and water color painting as well as drawing is offered, with the emphasis on the basics of art.

Having established partnerships, collaborations and involvement all over town and the county, the LEESBURG CENTER FOR THE ARTS takes its role as a center, literally. It is the central focal point of the arts community. The center has a partnership with the county for the Wings and Wildflowers Festival, displaying paintings of native birds, flora and fauna by the Pastel Society of Central Florida.

And the Leesburg center has become home base for local arts groups like the Pastel Society of Central Florida, the Leesburg Art Association, the River Wind Flute Circle and many more.

“We are the cultural hub of the community,” said Amy Painter, executive director of the Leesburg Center for the Arts. “Our purpose and design was part of the revitalization of downtown Leesburg. We offer everything from arts education – from age 4 to 104 – to cultural community events, like the Leesburg Arts Festival and

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LAKE EUSTIS MUSEUM OF ART

1 W. Orange Ave. Eustis, FL 352.483.2900 Lakeeustisartmuseum.org

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Song Writer’s Night. We want to be a gathering place where artists, artisans, musicians and appreciative audiences can connect with one another.”

The Leesburg Arts Festival (held on the second weekend in March) is the center’s signature event. The juried art festival attracts about 100 artisans from all over the country and Canada. The festival is alive with entertainment, interactive kids' art projects, food vendors and literary arts.

Of course, like all other art centers, Leesburg offers gallery exhibits. It hosts six to eight exhibits per year of local and regional artists. Exhibits also represent groups such as the Leesburg Art Association or the Pastel Society of Central Florida.

The center provides exceptional programs, such as the Rotary Summer Art Institute – the largest education based event in the county. The institute offers a full summer schedule of mostly visual art activities, with one-week camps per age

group for kids age 4–18, divided by pre-school, grammar school, middle school and high school.

“The goal of our programs is to fill niches that aren’t already available in the area,” Painter said. “Rock Band camp, for instance, is a niche Leesburg Center can and does fill, because it is desired and not found elsewhere.”

The Artist Way, a national program for adults, is another good example. It is designed to show the life of an artist: How to juggle the challenges of life and still maintain creativity in the midst of running the business side of artwork. The Artist Way meets March through May, and culminates with an exhibit. The Center even offers a Culinary Arts Program, done monthly to different themes.

FLORIDA LAKES SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA is entering its tenth season in November.

Made up of more than 60 professional musicians from all over the world, Florida Lakes Symphony Orchestra is the resident professional orchestra of Lake County. The late Guy Saint-Clair and his wife Audrey Sanders founded the orchestra in 2005. Saint-Clair passed away in 2010, but his wife carries on his legacy as executive director at the orchestra. This season’s series includes a Christmas concert in December, “Elegance of Vienna” to ring in 2016 and “Music of the Heart” to celebrate the love month of February.

“Romantic Love” in March and “Enchanted” in April close out the 2015-16 season.

The season will begin with a gala opening concert, "Encore," that will be performed Nov. 13 and 14 in Mount Dora and

Clermont, respectively.

Information:floridalakessymp honyorchestra.com THE MELON PATCH PLAYERS are doing for local performing arts what the Modernism Museum and the three countywide art centers are doing for the visual and fine arts – bringing top-caliber material to Lake County. There’s nothing mediocre about the material; the Players present red-hot, edgy Broadway Tony winners like “Vanya and Sasha and Masha and Spike” and “The Last Night of Ballyhoo.”

and one of the first in Central Florida to produce “Ballyhoo.”

“They are in their 60-something season,” Painter said. Sixty-third season, in fact.

The first production of “Father of the Bride” occurred in 1951.

“It is the longest consecutively run community theater in Central Florida,” said Scott Barry, president of the Melon Patch Theater. The longevity and experience of the theater group allows the group to be experimental and edgy with their scheduled performances. Offering six shows per year —

Dance Lessons in Six Weeks” dealt with growing old, death, homosexuality, AIDS and abortion. Somber topics, yet told in a hysterically funny way.

Audiences loved it.

“We are doing a better mix of contemporary plays with familyfriendly theater,” Barry said.

And audiences are responding favorably to the mix.

Melon Patch also offers unique programming and Barry welcomes you to take advantage. The noteworthy Patchwork Productions Kids Program introduces students from

“The Last Night of Ballyhoo” won the Tony Award in 2013, and the Melon Patch Players garnered the rights to produce “Ballyhoo” locally in 2014 — a major coup simply unheard of for a community theater. The Melon Patch Players were the first theatre group in Lake County

three musical and three nonmusical — the list runs the gamut from big Broadway hits like “The Sound of Music” and “The Music Man” to cutting edge shows like “Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks.”

Melon Patch obviously is not afraid to take risks. “Six

elementary through high school to the fundamentals of theater with instruction on acting, singing and dancing twice a week. The class culminates with annual summer and fall shows.

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THE BAY STREET PLAYERS continue to thrill audiences while providing outstanding educational opportunities at the Historic State Theatre.

The first two productions of 2015 — “Proof” and Neil Simon’s “Rumor” smashed the box office. And “Shrek Jr.” — a production by the Young People’s Program — did well in March.

The Players hope the streak continues with “Jesus Christ Superstar” – Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s eternal rock opera that proves “rock and roll is a religious experience” in April and May. Meanwhile, classes are offered in acting, set production, costuming and front house management for anyone interested.

“We offer opportunities for

people to learn skills in both the creative and business sides of theater,” said Margo Slaby, Theatre Operations manager.

That important combination surely has contributed to the theatre’s long history and visible presence in Eustis.

Built in 1916, the State Theatre began as a venue for vaudeville then cinema. After nearly 60 years, the theater closed. It sat empty until 1975, when a small group of theatre buffs discovered the vacant theatre and envisioned the return of live performances. Through hard work, the building was restored and the Bay Street Players were born. The first production was “Hello Dolly.”

The Bay Street Players are commemorating their 40th anniversary with a reproduction of “Hello Dolly” in the summer of 2015.

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SONNENTAG THEATRE AT THE ICEHOUSE

1100 N. Unser St. Mount Dora, FL 352.383.4616 Isehousetheatre.com

THE SONNENTAG THEATRE, now in its 67th season, is Lake County's longest continuously running theater group.

The Sonnentag presents Neil Simon’s “Barefoot in the Park” in May and June. The romantic comedy first appeared on Broadway in 1963, starring Robert Redford and Elizabeth Ashley. It was Simon’s longest running hit and 10thlongest running non-musical play in Broadway’s history.

The Icehouse also offers a youth theater group, the Icehouse Youth Theatre. The kids have two Fall performances scheduled in October.

“Frozen,” based on the widely popular Disney film, will be performed by small children, ages 5 to 8.

“Insomnia” will explore scary stories set to dark, chilling music in an original

performance piece acted out by preteen and teens ages 10 to 18, using musical theater, puppetry, acting, dance and more.

THE MOONLIGHT PLAYERS also are celebrating an anniversary — their 20th. To honor the milestone, Moonlight Players offer what they do best: productions that entertain.

It seems Neil Simon is as popular in Clermont as he is in Eustis.

The 2015 season kicked off with “Last of the Red Hot Lovers.” Still to come: “The Wiz,” “Prelude to a Kiss” and “Whose Life is it Anyway?”

The Moonlight Players also are home to a youth improv group called “The Moonlight Lunatics.” The improvisational performance art troupe serves as an outreach program to community teens aged 13 – 18 to introduce teens to the performing arts.

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BAY STREET PLAYERS AT THE HISTORIC STATE THEATRE

109 N. Bay St. Eustis, FL 352.257.7777 Baystreetplayers.org

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MOONLIGHT PLAYERS WAREHOUSE THEATRE

735 W. Minneola Ave. Clermont, FL 352.319.1116 Moonlightplayers.com

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It’s great outdoors!

Not long ago, people thought of hunting and fishing when you mentioned the great outdoors. Today, Lake Countians are enjoying every activity under the sun — hiking, sand volleyball, soccer, cycling, water sports — you name it, and someone’s doing it.

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WATER

PARADISE AS CLOSE AS THE NEAREST SPRING, RIVER OR LAKE

BOATING A new sport is making waves in South Lake County.

With construction of a 5,000-square-foot boathouse on Lake Minneola, Clermont hopes to propel itself as a premier destination for competitive rowing events. Last November, the city hosted Lake County’s first regatta.

“Right now, we are at the

starting line of opportunity.

But to win the race, the entire community must be fully engaged. I dream of the day when a group of South Lake rowers win a national championship in a boat that came from this facility,” says Lake County Commissioner Sean Parks, a rowing champion at Florida Institute of Technology.

The boathouse, which

opened in February, houses 20 racing boats and features two large launching docks, office space and bathrooms. Having a boathouse is instrumental in bringing prestigious rowing events to the area such as the U.S. Rowing Masters National Championships and the World Rowing Championships.

“This facility definitely represents a new day in for

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recreation and waterfront sports,” Parks says. “It also epitomizes the renaissance going on in Clermont. Of course, it’s not just an incredible opportunity for Clermont but rather all of Lake County.”

In addition to hosting regattas, Clermont will also serve as a training site for collegiate rowing teams in the Northeast that could not otherwise train during winter.

As a result, officials expect that more than 12,000 rowing competitors will flock to Clermont each year.

“Without question, we have the most beautiful boathouse in all of Central Florida,” says Karen Dorr, vice president of the Lake County Rowing Association. “We’re very excited about sharing it with the rowing community up north.

They’ll be able to rent our boats or bring their own if they desire.”

The Lake County Rowing Association was formed in 2011

by Dorr and Debbie Kiely, who both are former competitive rowers. Their goal is to promote the sport locally. As of now, they teach rowing to 18 local high school students and hope eventually to form a middle school club.

“One of our goals is to get rowing into Lake County schools,” Dorr says. “That makes sense since we have so many lakes here. The sport is a great learning tool for kids because it teaches life skills.

In this sport, teamwork is

WATER SKIING AND MORE

essential because you cannot do everything by yourself. You have to trust in the abilities of others and believe in them.

You also have to learn how to interact and deal with other people.”

SPRINGS, RIVERS AND LAKES For those who want something a little less serene and more action-packed, it’s easy to discover adventure on Lake County’s waterways.

One sure-fire way to find exhilaration is by waterskiing behind a speeding boat on one of the area’s many lakes.

Learn how to waterski at one of several local schools: Benzel Ski (Groveland), Sunset Lakes (Okahumpka) and Swiss Ski (Clermont).

Flyboarding is another option for the adventureminded. This sport involves the use of a jet pack or jet boots to propel the user into the air over a body of water.

Try Quest Air in Groveland.

After traversing long roads deep in the wilds of the Ocala National Forest, you see it: a vast, blue-green gem sparkling in the sunlight set against a backdrop of lush vegetation.

The view alone is enough to make you fall in love, but the water has a secret hidden beneath the surface.

A mask and snorkel are your keys to unlock the new world below, a world where ladyfish and mullet glide in harmony and the views are crystalclear and seemingly endless.

Turtles ease by you as you take in the scenery: a sand and limestone bottom, rays of light streaming in from above and a blue expanse dotted with wild creatures that call this magical place home.

Alexander Springs is one of the crown jewels of Florida’s great outdoors. It’s a firstmagnitude spring, which means it gushes pure water from under the ground at a rate of about 65 million gallons every day.

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throughout the year, and it offers a swimming area, fishing piers, a playground and miles of trails.

While it’s well-known for ample fishing opportunities on six lakes, Lake Louisa State Park in Clermont also has a swimming area on its largest lake, Lake Louisa, which has been designated an Outstanding Florida Water by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

PADDLING

The water maintains a constant temperature of 72 degrees yearround, so swimming is pleasant all year, no matter the weather.

One look around and you’ll understand why this is a favorite spot for free diving, snorkeling, scuba diving and even cave diving.

For a wild river adventure, head to Alexander Springs recreation area for canoe rentals on scenic Alexander Creek, which flows 14 miles to the St. Johns River. Alexander Creek, at first slow-moving and broad, gradually becomes narrower and faster away from the headsprings. There, paddlers can expect to see dense vegetation, alligators, turtles and a variety of wading birds.

Alexander Springs is magnificent, yet it is just the beginning when it comes to adventures on the water in Lake County.

SWIMMING AND BEACHES A variety of swimming areas draw visitors from near and far.

Families flock to Hickory Point Recreational Facilities in Tavares, which offers picnic areas, playing fields, a boardwalk and a marina in addition to a swimming beach.

For a day of swimming in a family-friendly park, Lake Minneola’s Waterfront Park in Clermont may be just the ticket. The park plays host to a variety of events and festivals

With more than 1,000 named lakes, Lake County lives up to its name. And there is no better way to explore its many waterways than by kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard.

Paddlers can rent canoes and kayaks and immerse themselves in nature on Lake Griffin and Dead River Marsh at Lake Griffin State Park in Fruitland Park. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including anhingas, cormorants, alligators, herons and several species of turtles.

Dora Canal has been called “the most beautiful mile of water in the world.” Once known as the Elfin River, Dora Canal’s ancient, towering cypress trees and abundant wildlife has enchanted visitors for more than 100 years. The canal connects Lake Dora and Lake Eustis and borders the towns of Eustis, Mount Dora and Tavares.

Other Lake County blueways include Blue Creek Run, Golden Triangle Run, Helena Run, Lake Griffin Run, Lake Harris Run, Palatlakaha Run, Stagger Mud Lake Run, which are all good choices for paddlers.

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GUIDED BOAT TOURS Bartholomew's Yesteryear Cruises 1050 W. Burleigh Blvd.

(441) at Sinbads, Tavares 352.343.7047 CatBoat Tours 311 S. Tremain St., Mount Dora 352.816.9339 catboattours.com Central Florida Nature Adventures 35830 County Road 439, Eustis 352.589.7899 kayakcentralflorida.com Fire Storm Marine Air Boat Tours 1605 Paradise Ln., Astor 407.463.8961 firestormairboattours.com Lazy Daze Boat Rentals 25131 Blackwater Ln., Astor 352.759.2515 lazydazeboats.com Premier Boat Tours 100 N. Alexander St., Mount Dora 352.434.8040 doracanaltour.com Rusty Anchor 400 W. Fourth Ave., Mount Dora 352.383.3933 rustyanchormountdora.com St. John's River Scenic Boat Tours Located in Astor 352.584.1255

FISHING

MAKE YOUR OWN FISH TALES IN LAKE COUNTY

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ove to fish? You’ve come to the right place. Nationallytelevised fishing tournaments come to Lake County each year.

“Lake County is the center of the earth for bass fishing,” says 68-year-old Phil Kelley, an avid bass fisherman who moved to Lake County nearly 29 years ago. So look no further if you’re wondering where to fish, when to cast your line and what bait to use. Phil, who competed in dozens of bass tournament and still fishes local lakes once a week, has the answers.

“The Harris Chain of Lakes is not an easy place to find bass. You really have to know the lakes. However, I’ve never fished anywhere that has bass as big as they do here. The largest bass I’ve seen caught from these lakes weighed 14 pounds.”

Although our local lakes also are ideal to catch crappie, bluegill and catfish, bass fishermen have bigger fish to

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fry. Phil offered some tips for locals and tourists alike who hope to reel in the big one.

Tackle: A plastic worm with 10-pound test line and a sinker that weighs 1/16th ounce. You can buy a light but strong graphite fishing rod and do all the same things as a pro without spending $300 on a rod and reel.

It’s not the tackle or boat; it’s the skill of the fisherman.

Best bass bait: Plastic worm.

Successful fishing technique: The flipping technique. In Florida, the largest bass are located under heavily grassy areas. Instead of casting, you flip your worm in the weeds.

The falling action of the worm causes the bass to go after it.

Bass won’t move toward your bait all the time, but if you drop the bait in front of it, the bass will eat it. Every bass I’ve caught over 10 pounds was caught by using the flipping technique.

Seasonal trends: In the spring, bass bed and lay eggs in shallow areas of the lake. As summer progresses, they move into grassy areas or deeper parts of the lake.

Favorite lake: For bass fishing, Lake Griffin. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has been stocking the lake with bass. I also like that there is very little development on the north end of the lake.

Another fishing hotspot: Lake Dorr, which is located north of Altoona in the Ocala National Forest. This lake is secluded, and very few people fish there.

I’ve caught as many as 50 bass in a day, although not all of them were big.

Helpful advice: Don’t use a top-water bait if the water is dark.

Bass won’t be able to see it.

FACTS ABOUT LOCAL LAKES

There are more than 1,000 lakes and rivers in Lake County.

In 2005, 350 professional and amateur anglers visited Lake County for two separate nationally televised fishing tournaments.

There are eight lakes on the Harris Chain of Lakes.

The 13,788-acre Lake Harris is the largest. The Harris Chain is known for largemouth bass, redear sunfish and sunshine bass.

There are 13 lakes on the Clermont Chain of Lakes.

The 3,634-acre Lake Louisa is the largest. The Clermont Chain is known for largemouth bass, black crappie, bluegill and redear sunfish.

Lake George, located on the border of north Lake County, was ranked by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission as one of the top 10 black bass fishing sites.

Source: lakecountyfl.gov/ boating/fishing_opportunities. aspx

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ATHLETICS

JOCKS FLOCK TO SOUTH LAKE'S WORLD-CLASS TRAINING SITES

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lermont has seen massive growth in the number of athletes who call the city a temporary destination or their permanent home.

Clermont is drawing top-notch athletes without being home to a title-winning pro sports team, without hosting the Olympics or staging a mainstream televised sporting event.

Clermont is the “Choice of Champions” because its man-made infrastructure and natural habitat gives athletes from around the world the opportunity to thrive like no other city in Florida.

“A committee … met for several months defining and refining what made Clermont special that was also

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marketable,” recalled Clermont city manager Darren Gray.

“When we chose ‘Choice of Champions’ it was not only a recognition of the city being an ideal training ground for elite athletes. It was a promise to celebrate the spirit of a champion: cheering on the kid who works hard or the new entrepreneur in downtown who succeeds (as well).”

The brand is less than two years old. The anchor, rock and foundation of Clermont’s athletic scene came way before the catchy nickname. It was 15 years ago that the National Training Center first opened.

“There’s no way to overstate (its) importance,” Gray said of the NTC. “They have always placed an emphasis on serving the community’s well being, even as they have grown in reputation for their expertise and facilities that support athletes at the top of their game.”

In 2001, the facility had two group fitness studios, an aquatic center, athletic fields and a lab

NATIONAL TRAINING CENTER

Olympic lifting platforms Selectorized, plate-loaded strength equipment Zumba, Schwinn cycling, Yoga, Pilates and TRX fitness classes Outpatient rehabilitation General strength classes

"CHOICE OF CHAMPIONS IS A PROMISE TO CELEBRATE THE SPIRIT OF A CHAMPION: CHEERING ON THE KID WHO WORKS HARD OR THE NEW ENTREPRENEUR IN DOWNTOWN WHO SUCCEEDS AS WELL.” DARREN GRAY CLERMONT CITY MANAGER

400-meter synthetic track Long jump & triple jump runways Pole vault runways Javelin runways Shot Put/Discus/Hammer Cages 70-meter x 25-yard pool with 27 lanes Outdoor heated pool Aquatic programs 5 grass fields for baseball and softball (4 lighted) Under roof batting cages Concession stand Weight loss programs Classrooms for film review and pre-game meetings Locker rooms with showers Sports performance staff

for sports performance testing.

Today the NTC has grown into what many would consider futuristic athletic training. Few places in the country have the elite equipment, facilities and training personnel under one roof like NTC. Clermont-native Fred Sommers and Olympic softball

player Dot Richardson were the city’s athletic patriarchs. They bought into the vision back in 2001. In conjunction with the NTC, Sommers conceptualized the first Clermont triathlon.

Richardson made Clermont a destination to learn the finer points of softball and for elite softball tournaments.

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Sommers and Richardson told other athletes about Clermont, and they came. All type of athletes including high schoolers, weekend warriors, Masters athletes and even Olympians came to Clermont.

The entire world started to realize what Clermont had to offer when Olympic USA track and field star Tyson Gay moved there in 2007, the same year he won three gold medals at the IAAF World Championships.

“World class athletes seem to know that champions breed champions,” said Chase Kough, a NSCA certified trainer in Clermont. “When a community fosters an atmosphere and culture of success and a champion mindset, it makes success inevitable.”

Today, 11 other present and former Olympic athletes live in Clermont. They include the aforementioned Richardson, Kellie Wells, Jeff Demps, Sheila Taormina, Dwight Thomas, Veronica Campbell-Brown, Justin Gatlin, Jarrod Shoemaker, Dennis Mitchell, Damu Cherry and Brandy Johnson.

Shoemaker competed at the 2008 Beijing Olympics in the triathlon and continues to compete professionally. So does Alicia Kaye, Shoemaker’s wife. Shoemaker hails from Massachusetts and Kaye is from Canada. Both now live full time and train in Clermont.

To them it is the ideal place; so much so that they constantly are

telling other athletes to consider relocating.

“We call them our best real estate agents in the county,” said Adam Ashton, Lake County’s Sports Development Coordinator.

During the past five years, Clermont has garnered the attention of many other athletes besides track and field competitors, triathletes and softball players. Combining new infrastructure with the city’s hills and lakes, a new generation of champion-driven athletes and coaches are calling Clermont home.

The International Pro Soccer Academy truly is international when it comes to the coaches who are making aspiring soccer players better. Academy director Henry Moto is a native from Zimbabwe, where he played

professionally. Coach Guillermo Alejandro Gallegos played for the Venezuelan National Team at age 15. They, along with the seven other coaches, have more than 40 years of coaching experience (including at the professional and collegiate level).

The academy’s mission is to develop and prepare players physically, mentally and emotionally. Individual specialized training by this experienced staff improves skills and technical abilities faster than just playing on a travel team.

Clermont’s Waterfront Park also has made a big transition in the last five years. Once seen as just a place for recreation, more and more athletes are using the fitness trail that extends for 30 miles. There also is a 10-mile

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clay trail in the park. It is filled with runners because of its softer surface.

The recent addition of the Bike & Boards Shop has drawn both serious and recreational kayakers and paddle boarders.

International wakeboard champion Bec Gange has been using Clermont’s lakes to train for years. And Gange has had an influence on fellow wake boarders just as Shoemaker and Kaye have had with other athletes. A 17-year-old from Chicago decided to spend his senior year of high school in Clermont so he could train with Gange.

In June, the 69,000-squarefoot Arts and Recreation Center opened and quickly became a popular spot for weekend warriors. Organized sports

and pick-up games in the air conditioned gym make it a go-to spot. In addition, the large pool and two wading pools are big attractions. The facility also includes Lake County’s largest performance center, as well as a 230-seat theatre.

It can be quite easy to drive through Clermont every day going about life without realizing how much the city has to offer to the athlete – not to one athlete but to many different types of athletes. It’s because Clermont has so much to choose from that it is the “Choice of Champions.”

COUNTY FACILITIES ARE DESIGNED FOR ACTIVE PEOPLE It’s easy to enjoy an active lifestyle here. From navigating

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rough terrain on a mountain bike to drilling a volleyball across the net, opportunities to get moving are everywhere.

Hungry for competition?

Head to Hickory Point, on Highway 19 in Tavares.

The recently-expanded park now boasts Florida’s largest permanent sand volleyball complex.

“The new facility will take advantage of the huge growth happening in beach volleyball,” said Steve Bishop, director of USA Volleyball’s Florida region, who worked with the county to create the complex.

“More than 50 colleges currently offer scholarships to players.”

Bishop hopes the 21 tournament-quality courts at the complex position Lake County as the premier place to play sand volleyball in Florida.

In addition to national tournaments, the facility offers open play every Monday and Wednesday from 5p.m. until dark. Come by yourself or bring the team for a night of hot serves and cool sand. Contact Bishop at 352.742.0080 for more information about adult leagues or sign-up at hickorypointbeach.com.

The Mount Dora Mountain Bike Trail is another recent

amenity for active types.

With more than 3.5 miles of twisting track, sand jumps and some expert-level features, the trail offers more than a simple out-and-back trip. The course, which also traverses a small stream and dips into a few sudden drops, is highly rated among devoted mountain bikers as well as novice riders.

The trail is designed and maintained by volunteers with the Ocala Mountain Biking Association (OMBA).

“The city acquired the land and OMBA came to us with an idea for a mountain biking trail,” said Roy Hughes, director of Parks and Recreation for the city of Mount Dora. “We thought it would make a great addition to the mix of recreational opportunities available to the community.”

OMBA always is in need of volunteers to help keep the trail in peak riding shape.

Visit the OMBA’s website for a map of the trail at omba. org/maps.

When part of Donnelly Park needed to be dug up for a construction project, the City of Mount Dora seized the opportunity to create an unorthodox recreational opportunity, pickleball. The courts opened in February.

Learn more about this growing sport at usapa.org.

The means for achieving an active lifestyle are everywhere in Lake County, and new opportunities pop all the time. Looking for more to do? The Lake County parks and trails link at lakecountyfl. gov is a great place to start.

Get information on facilities, nature-based activities and upcoming events.

"THE NEW FACILITY WILL TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE HUGE GROWTH HAPPENING IN BEACH VOLLEYBALL. MORE THAN 50 COLLEGES CURRENTLY OFFER SCHOLARSHIPS TO PLAYERS.” STEVE BISHOP DIRECTOR, USA VOLLEYBALL FLORIDA REGION

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HIKING

LOTS FOR LANDLUBBERS TO LOVE

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hat locals know, and what visitors soon will discover, is that Lake County is home to a wealth of natural beauty. Postcard-worthy sunsets, a vibrant mix of interesting wildlife and countless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors grant this Central Florida destination serious bragging rights.

While hardcore mountaineers or "peak baggers," might find Mount Dora's 184-foot elevation disappointing, true nature aficionados delight in more than three dozen parks and preserves that Lake County offers.

Bring the binoculars and marvel at more than 200 bird species that call Lake County home. Or hit the trail and chance upon a secluded spring, patch of wildflowers or a burrowing gopher tortoise.

Take time to savor the wild spaces here and you won’t be disappointed. Here are a few local favorites: For a quiet stroll to appreciate the more attractive,

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feathered members of wetland ecosystems, be sure to check out Mount Dora’s Palm Island Park.

The newly renovated boardwalk system hugs the shore of Lake Dora in the heart of water bird territory. Look for anhingas drying their wings and Great Blue Herons stoically staring across the lake.

For an even more immersive birding experience, take the three-mile loop drive through Emeralda Marsh. This 7,089acre preserve protects sensitive ecosystems that support an abundance of wildlife and filter water for Lake Griffin. Traverse the loop either by bike or car, but go slow because it’s easy to miss snowy egrets peering from behind vegetation or wood ducks bobbing in one of the marsh’s many ponds.

Looking to burn a few calories while sightseeing? Be sure to visit Hidden Waters Preserve in Eustis. Hidden Waters offers something elusive in Central Florida – elevation change. Start down the Lake Alfred Trail toward the center of the sinkhole and then head back up the ravine trail. During the loop, look for burrowing gopher tortoises and a small creek that has cut an impressive ravine into the landscape.

Hikers desiring more distance should visit the five-mile trail at the Lake Norris Conservation Area. While on the white-

SOME PLACES YOU CAN EXPERIENCE “REAL FLORIDA. REAL CLOSE.”

large, screened-in pavilion.

Contact the Lake County Water Authority for a reservation.

For the perfect end to any Lake County adventure, view a sunset off Grantham Point in Mount Dora. Grab a seat at one of the picnic tables next to Lake County’s one and

only lighthouse. Then, reflect on your eventful day while enjoying the pink and orange reflections bounce off Lake Dora’s glassy surface.

For more information on Lake County’s natural treasures, visit lakecountyfl.gov and floridastateparks.org.

WOOD WALKWAY PHOTO BY JAMES CURRIE

blazed trail, watch for hunting ospreys as they circle the sky.

Use wooden bridges to cross meandering tributaries. Enjoy a little sunshine as it filters through cypress groves. For best viewing of Lake Norris’s abundant wildlife, hike solo or with a small, quiet group.

Looking to really get away from it all with an overnight camping trip? Alexander Springs State Park should be on your short list. Some of Florida’s most treasured natural wonders are the freshwater springs that bubble up from deep underground. After a day of swimming, make camp at one of the park’s 67 sites and take advantage of the wellmaintained facilities. Because the campground is popular, make sure to reserve your campsite at reserveusa.com.

Not looking to drag out the tent but still want to spend the day outside? Look no further than a picnic lunch at Hickory Point. Thanks to 12 boat ramps that provide access into Little Lake Harris, the park is a favorite among boaters and visitors looking to relax by the shoreline. Guests are welcome to use covered pavilions, picnic tables and BBQ grills in addition to extensive boardwalk system that wanders through nearby cypress groves.

Throwing a party? Take advantage of the facility’s

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BIKE Sugarloaf Mountain, the highest point in Peninsular Florida.

Intersection of county roads 455 and 561, Clermont.

RUN The Green Mountain Scenic Overlook and Trailhead, featuring views from the 130-foot elevated boardwalk.

20700 County Road 455, Ferndale.

BREATHE FRESH AIR Trout Lake Nature Center, a 230-acre wildlife preserve near the Ocala National Forest.

520 E. County Road 44, Eustis.

HIKE Several miles of trails, stop by the nature center and take advantage of some of the best local birding in Lake County at Pear Park.

5336 University Ave., Leesburg.

VIEW The rare Florida ScrubJay at the Florida ScrubJay Trail in South Lake.

11490 Montevista Road, Clermont.

MARVEL Take in the sights of local wildlife along the St. Johns River, Golden Triangle, Palatlakaha Basin and Ocklawaha Basin by kayaking the Blueways Trail.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS ARE CALLING A must-do list for those who love mother nature: HIKING Flat Island Preserve 2301 Owens Road, Leesburg 352.343.3777 Hike at this 2,300-acre conservation area in the Okahumpka Marsh and enjoy

old ancient oak trees and unique birding opportunities. Flat Island Preserve features two wooded islands, as well as a 440-foot boardwalk leading to a canoe launch.

Lake Louisa State Park 7035 Highway 27, Clermont 352.394.3969 Enjoy more than 20 miles of hiking trails through thick

Florida vegetation. Plenty of opportunities are available for wildlife viewing. This also is a popular area for birding.

Pear Park 4800 University Avenue, Leesburg 352.253.4950 Enjoy a guided hiking tour with Lake County Park rangers or simply discover this amazing 318-acre park by yourself. It is home to 160 species of birds and 40 species of butterflies.

CAMPING Alexander Springs Recreation Area 49525 County Road 445, Altoona 352.669.3522 In addition to a 67-unit campground, campers can swim or canoe in the crystal-clear spring. Restroom and shower facilities are available.

Ocala Forest Campground 26301 S.E. County Road 42, Umatilla 352.669.3888 This family-owned campground nestled in the picturesque Ocala National Forest offers excellent opportunities for fishing, hiking and horseshoes.

Wekiva Falls Resort 30700 Wekiva River Road, Sorrento 352.383.8055 800 RV sites and 100 tent sites are available. Enjoy picnicking and canoeing and swimming in the beautiful Wekiva River.

HORSEBACK RIDING Dream Catcher Horse Ranch 10639 Toad Road, Clermont 407.702.8332 Enjoy a 45-minute trail ride in the hills of Clermont.

Horses are matched to the rider’s ability, and trotting and cantering may be allowed depending on the experience of your group.

Rock Springs Riding Ranch 31700 County Road 433, Sorrento 352.735.6266 Saddle up and enjoy a ride in the beautiful Rock Springs Run State Reserve. The company offers 1-, 2- and 3-hour rides and an all-day guided trail ride.

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GOLF

LAKE COUNTY COURSES ATTRACT GOLFERS OF ALL SKILL LEVELS

And there are a lot of places to swing locally. Of the 1,153 square miles that make up Lake County, roughly 99 miles are fairways and greens. There are 27 courses in the county, giving every type of golfer multiple choices to find courses that are suitable for both their game and their lifestyle.

Here’s a snapshot of places to play, but be forewarned, you’ll want to play all 27 courses!

NORTHWEST

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ake County appeals to golfers of all pedigrees, from the casual duffer with a bag of mismatched clubs to the fanatic who will play through rain, fog and dark of night. A plethora of challenging courses draw competitors who sign up for every tournament at their home course and live for that breakof-dawn tee time to play in a $5 Nassau.

But the appeal of Lake’s courses is just as strong for golfers who place more emphasis on camaraderie than competition, golfers who live to play in the later-in-the-day couples scramble or enjoy nine holes followed by lunch. Regardless, all golfers do the same thing: They swing clubs, hit a ball and try to take the fewest swings to get the ball in the hole.

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Harbor Hills Country Club $$ 6583 Lake Griffin Road, Lady Lake 6,910 yards, par 72 Rating: 72.5 with slope of 126 harborhills.com Rated 4 stars by Golf Digest.

Spacious layout. Hilly terrain, like that in the southern part of the county, is challenging but not overly difficult. Harbor Hills has hosted numerous high school state playoff tournaments and National Golf Association tour events.

Lakes of Lady Lake $ 503 Canopy Lane, Lady Lake 4,174 yards, par 63 Rating: 59.3 with slope of 96 352.750.4474 Good putting touch required on a course featuring elevation changes and water.

Orange Blossom Hills Country Club $$ Water Tower Circle, The Villages (Lady Lake) 6,095 yards, par 72 Rating: 69.1 with slope of 117 352.753.5200 golfthevillages.com Opened in 1985. Daily fee golf course with “call for playing privileges” guest policy is on the original side of The Villages.

Member owned, semi-private course. Striking elevation changes and beautiful views.

The Club at Pennbrooke Fairways $$ 32900 Countryside Blvd., Leesburg pennbrooke.org Two executive nines and one regulation nine.

Plantation at Leesburg — Cranes Roost $$ 4720 Plantation Blvd., Leesburg 6,005 yards, par 71 Rating: 68.0 with slope of 118 plantationleesburggolf.com Four tees challenge all skill levels.

Water Oak Country Club Estates $$ 605 Hickory, Lady Lake 5,944 yards, par 72 Rating: 68.4 with slope of 117 wateroakcountryclub.com Situated among 300 acres of unique terrain and large oak trees. With 14 tree-lined holes, the emphasis is on accuracy.

Plantation at Leesburg — Otter Creek $$ 4720 Plantation Blvd., Leesburg 6,264 yards, par 72 Rating: 70.0 with slope of 127 plantationleesburggolf.com Five tees challenge all skill levels.

CENTRAL Arlington Ridge Golf Club $$ 4463 Arlington Ridge Blvd., Leesburg 4,877 yards from front tees, 6,610 from back tees Rating: 71.2 with slope of 117 arlingtonridgegolfclub.com Designed by pro Gary Koch.

Lots of nuances on course featuring winding river and centuries-old oaks.

Mission Inn Resort & Club — El Campeon $$$ 10400 County Road 48, Howey-in-the-Hills 6,923 yards, par 72 Rating: 74.2 with slope of 135 missioninnresort.com One of the oldest courses in Florida (built in 1917). Eightyfive feet of elevation change breaks the mold of traditional flat Florida courses. Signature hole is No. 17, a par-5 double dogleg full of obstacles.

EAST Baytree Golf Course $$ 129 Juniper Way, Tavares 3,752 yards, par 62 Rating: 57.8 with slope of 95 baytreegolf.com 18-hole executive course opened in 1990.

Mission Inn Resort & Club — Las Colinas $$$ 10400 County Road 48, Howey-in-the-Hills 6,867 yards, par 72 Rating: 73.3 with slope of 132 missioninnresort.com Rated 4 stars by Golf Digest.

Nominated as Best New Resort Course by Golf Digest.

Recognized as Top Fairways

by Golf for Women. Plenty of water hazards. Signature hole is No. 12, a 493-yard, par-5 along a tree-lined fairway.

Monarch at Royal Highlands $$ 5325 Saint Andrews, Leesburg 6,018 yards, par 72 Rating: 68.9 with slope of 119 monarchgolf club

Black Bear Golf Club $$ 24505 Caluso Blvd., Eustis 7,002 yards, par 72 Rating: 74.7 with slope of 134 blackbeargolfclub.com One of the premier championship layouts in Central Florida. P.B. Dye design worthy of seven U.S. Amateur Public Links tournaments. Practice facility boasts complete double-ended driving range and 40,000square-foot short-game area.

Country Club of Mount Dora $$ 1900 Country Club Blvd., Mount Dora 6,571 yards, par 72 Rating: 72.1 with slope of 125 ccofmtdora.com Water comes into play on 16 holes on this beautiful course surrounded by horse farms.

Raised greens present challenges.

Eagle Dunes Golf Club $$ 24000 Marbella Drive, Sorrento 7,024 yards, par 72 Rating: 73.7 with slope of 135 eagledunes.com 4-star rating by Golf Digest.

Elevations and beautiful fairways.

International Golf Club $$ 18000 Eagles Way, Tavares 6,852 yards, par 72 Rating: 73.8 with slope of 133 deerislandgolf.com Formerly known as Deer Island Country Club. By far one of the most unique courses in the county. Course makes up a majority of Deer Island, a stretch of land nestled between Lake Dora and Lake Beauclaire. Beauty and water come into play on every shot.

Carves through protected wetlands. Joe Lee’s signature finger style bunkering.

Mount Dora Golf Club $$ 1100 S. Highland St., Mount Dora 5,719 yards, par 70 Rating: 67.9 with slope of 114 mountdoragolf.com Opened in 1945.

Red Tail Golf Club $$ 21600 Covered Bridge Lane, Sorrento 7,152 yards, par 72 redtailclub.com Located in Heathrow Country Estates. Private, non-equity course.

Wedgewood Golf Course 12635 County Road 44, Grand Island 1,400 yards, par 27 Opened in 1989.

$

SOUTH Bella Collina Golf Club $$$ 16355 Vetta Drive, Montverde 7,500 yards, par 72 bellacollina.com Nestled among orange groves and woodlands, overlooks vineyards and two lakes.

Designed by pro Nick Faldo.

Course design is at a premium.

Valley Valley-style layout provides open fairways but is a true test.

Clerbrook Golf Club $ 20005 N. US Highway 27, Clermont clerbrook.com 5,154 yards, par 67 Rating: 63.4 with slope of 108 Opened in 1981.

Green Valley Country Club $$ 14601 Green Valley Blvd., Clermont gvcountryclub.com 6,645 yards, par 72 Rating: 71.8 with slope of 128 Founded as 9-hole course in 1967. Expanded to 18 holes in 1989. Member owned, semiprivate club. Full driving range.

Kings Ridge Golf Club $$ 1950 Kings Ridge Blvd., Clermont kingsridgegc.com 6,269 yards, par 71 Course capitalizes on naturally rolling terrain. Greens are true test of putting skills.

Legends Golf and Country Club $$ 1700 Legendary Blvd., Clermont legendsgolfcc.com 6,652 yards, par 72 Rating: 72.5 with slope of 133 Recognized as one of Florida’s finest courses. Hosted Hooter’s Tour event in 2003 and National Football Player’s Association tournament in 2004.

Palisades Country Club 16510 Palisades Blvd., Clermont golfpalisadescc.com 7,004 yards, par 72

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$$

Rating: 73.8 with slope of 127 Designer Joe Lee called Palisades, “… the most spectacular piece of golf property I have seen in Central Florida.” Rolling hills overlooking Lake Minneola.

Holes hug Spring Lake.

Sanctuary Ridge Golf Club $$ 2601 Diamond Players Club Drive, Clermont sanctuaryridgegc.com 7,005 yards, par 71 Rating: 74.2 with a slope of 139 Link style course with significant elevations and 18 uniquely different holes.

Nicknamed Florida’s mountain course due to a dramatic elevation change of 190 feet.

Water on seven holes. True challenge in a scenic setting.

Swiss Fairways $ 13144 Skiing Paradise Blvd., Clermont swissskischool.com 6,725 yards, par 70 Rating: 72.3 with slope of 126.

Unique course has 135 sand traps and 10 water hazards.

Large greens.

KEY: $ = $25 OR LESS $$ = $25-$50 $$$ = $50 OR MORE

AIR

AERIAL ADVENTURES ABOUND

S

oaring at 1,000 feet above Leesburg, one can see Florida's lush landscapes and plentiful lakes and waterways, creatures swimming in the lakes and activity on a town square or green golf course. On a clear day from 10,000 feet, one can see both coasts. It is truly a life enhancing experience — and one you can enjoy for less than you'd spend at Disney World.

In Lake County, there are several ways to have an aero adventure, by small plane, hang glider and hot air balloon.

At Leesburg International Airport, central Florida’s premier fixed base operator Sunair Aviation offers a unique discovery flight program for those interested in an introductory, one-time flight over Lake County.

According to Austin Windham, outside service manager at Sunair Aviation, visitors can take the controls

102 WELCOME TO LAKE COUNTY

while in the air with instruction from an experienced pilot for up to an hour. The instructor performs the takeoff and landing.

The flight path is determined by the customer. “If you want to fly over the Villages, Mission Inn or Lake Harris, it is up to you,” says Windham. “There are large, beautiful houses along Lake Harris and Lake Griffin. It is an unbelievable view.”

Sunair, which has been in business for over 30 years, is one of 29 businesses at Leesburg International Airport that combine to make a $63.7 million annual economic impact for the local community, according to Assistant City Manager Michael Rankin.

In addition, the airport oversees 55,000 air activities per year and sustains 500 to 600 aviation-related jobs.

And the airport hasn’t even reached altitude yet. Rankin

is highly optimistic for further growth.

“We see a real opportunity with the airport to recruit businesses and jobs outside of aviation in Lake County,” said Rankin.

His confidence is wellfounded. Leesburg International has been designated a foreign trade zone by the Department of Commerce and granted U.S. Customs and Border Protection status by the Department of Homeland Security. That means that Leesburg International Airport can serve as an initial point-of-entry for aircraft

International Airport to offer the best services in general aviation and the same commercial services Sanford and Orlando have but without congested roads.

“If you think you have seen our airport or understand the dynamics of it, you need to come see it again,” said Rankin.

Business is booming at the airport, but things are more laid back at Lake County’s smaller airfields.

Aero adventure is not unique to Leesburg. Other areas of the county offer options as well.

At Quest Air Hang Gliders in

"IF YOU THINK YOU HAVE SEEN OUR AIRPORT OR UNDERSTAND THE DYNAMICS OF IT, YOU NEED TO COME SEE IT AGAIN.” MICHAEL RANKIN ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER

entering the U.S. from a foreign country.

“A pilot from The Villages can travel to South America and back and go through customs here,” said Rankin. “No more stops at Tampa just to go through customs, then take off again to return here.”

Leesburg Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Sandy Moore also is enthusiastic that the airport proves a portal to the world.

“The importance of the Leesburg Airport is the commerce brought into our city through local aviation businesses, which operate all over the world,” said Moore.

Close proximity to The Villages and Orlando allows Leesburg

Groveland, you can satisfy your extreme sports enthusiasm with hang gliding, fly boarding and Dragonfly light-sport Discovery tandems. The latter two are new activities, introduced in 2014.

Fun and excitement are promised by Spencer “Spinner” Kindt, lead instructor and tandem pilot at Quest, and his esteemed colleagues Jeremy Armstrong, a professional fly boarder, and Bobby Bailey, the No. 1 Dragonfly pilot in the world and co-creator of the Moyes-Bailey Dragonfly lightsport aircraft.

Fly boarding is a new sport and about as extreme as sports come. Something right out of a James Bond movie, fly boarding is done by strapping on jet boots

that propel the rider through the air by means of water pressure within a 55-foot hose. The rider dips, spins and soars over Lake Quest for an exhilarating halfhour ride.

Moyes-Bailey Dragonfly instruction also is new. In fact, Quest Air is the only place anywhere that provides the adventure. Bailey built a special, easy-to-fly model called the Purple Haze, a two-seat plane for introductory, onesession, tandem co-piloting.

But Quest’s most popular activity is without a doubt, hang gliding, a sport popular in many mountainous areas. Since Florida basically is flat, with no mountains or cliffs to launch from, Quest experts developed the technique of aero-towing.

The experience can be as serene as a hot air balloon ride, or with harrowing turns and a 90-degree bank, something more on the wild side Quest employees refer to as “the rollercoaster.” Anyone can do it.

In fact, participants from age 6 to 101 have. “Whoever I take up does not need to know how to operate a hang glider, they just have to take my instruction,” said Kindt.

The tandem glide travels at 20 mph, but the flight can be customized. One thrill-seeking couple with prior skydiving experience asked to celebrate their 48th wedding anniversary with a dual hang-glide at sunset.

Quest made it happen.

Hot air ballooning is on many bucket lists, and two companies in Lake County are happy to help adventurers cross that activity off their list.

Florida Balloon Adventures, owned by Bill and Trish Whidden, and Rohr Balloons,

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LEESBURG INT'L AIRPORT:

BY THE NUMBERS

$63.7 million per year economic impact 55,000 air activities per year 500 — 600 jobs affiliated with airport property 160 — 200 airplanes and helicopters call Leesburg International Airport their home 45 buildings 29 aviation businesses at the airport 2 runways, roughly a mile long each

owned by Chuck Rohr, offer nearly identical experiences.

Both are based in Mount Dora.

Your choice may depend simply on availability, or why not fly both? It does not have to be once-in-a-lifetime.

Hot air balloon flights in Central Florida take place from

fall to spring. Flights are at sunrise, when the wind is the most stable. Summer simply is too hot for ballooning.

“The views are lovely,” said Trish Whidden. “Riders will see orange groves and horse pastures. Lakes are traveled along the coast.” Heights can

reach 2,500 to 3,000 feet or as low as 500 feet over noncongested areas and 1,000 feet over congested areas. “We like to fly low enough where you can hear dogs barking and talk to people on the ground,” Whidden said. “Protected within a column of air, you do not feel the wind blow from within the hot air balloon carriage. You are one with god and nature.”

At the end of the flight, refreshments are served and a champagne toast is offered.

Rohr offers personalized photos and videos of the flight as commemorative keepsakes.

At the closing ceremony, Rohr shares the ballooner’s prayer: “The winds have welcomed us with softness.

The sun has blessed us with his warm hands. We have flown so high and so well, that god has joined us in laughter. And set us gently and safely once again, back into the loving arms of Mother Earth.” One with god and nature, indeed.

AIRPORTS Leesburg Airport 8807 Airport Blvd.

Leesburg, FL 352.728.9801 leesburgflorida.gov/airport Grass Roots Airpark 20201 Whistling Wire Lane Groveland, FL 407.234.6986 grassrootsairpark.com

FLYING LESSONS Sun Air Aviation, Inc. Leesburg Airport 8806 Airport Blvd.

Leesburg, FL 352.787.2211 sunairaviation.com

HANG GLIDERS Quest Air Hang Gliders 6548 Groveland Airport Road Groveland, FL 352.429.0213 questairhanggliding.com

HOT AIR BALLOONS Florida Balloon Adventures 28905 Shirley Shores Road Tavares, FL 352.253.0031 floridaballoon adventures.com Rohr Balloons 2547 Lakeshore Drive Mount Dora, FL 352.735.7647 rohrballoons.com

FUNFACTS OF LAKE COUNTY

Dr. Edgar J. Banks, professor and archaeologist believed to be the inspiration for the movie character Indiana Jones, retired to Eustis in the 1920s. Banks amassed a collection of more than 10,000 ancient clay tablets and artifacts that provide some of the earliest examples of human written language. Banks also was the first American to climb Mount Ararat in search of Noah’s Ark.

Cool Hand Luke, based the book that became an award-winning movie starring Paul Newman on Pearce’s experience on a Lake County chain gang. Pearce served time at Road Camp No. 48 in Tavares, which he described as “a chamber of horrors.” was born and raised in Eustis.

5 million pounds of concrete and 149,000 pounds of steel were used to build Clermont’s famous Citrus Tower in 1956.

Lady Lake pioneer Dr. Olive Swan became Florida’s first female physician when she moved to Conant (today Lady Lake) in 1884.

The Town of Lady Lake supposedly is named after a woman who drowned herself in a lake after becoming depressed because her husband was away for several days on a hunting trip.

Thomas McClary, co-founder and lead guitarist of the funk/ soul group The Commodores (Easy, Brick House, Three Times A Lady, Nighshift),

About 25 families – including the mayor, local bank president, Lake County superintendent of schools, several doctors and a minister – paid about $2,000 each to finance the structure.

The underground complex even included a weapons arsenal to ward off neighbors who might attempt to enter.

Donn Pearce, author of

During World War II, a German prisoner of war camp was located on land now occupied by Lake Sumter State College. The 150 to 200 German prisoners were used to harvest crops at local farms.

According to the Bigfoot Field Research Organization, there have been seven Class A Bigfoot sightings in Lake County. Class A reports involve “clear sightings in circumstances where misinterpretation or misidentification of other animals can be ruled out with greater confidence.” The most recent report: a January 2012 sighting on Highway 42 near Lake Mack by a man who got his car stuck in sand.

In 1926, a barge filled with imported

Lake County originally was named Mosquito County.

Italian marble sank in a trench near the Yalaha city pier. The barge was bound for the 20room, 7,200 square foot Howey Mansion under construction.

The marble never was recovered. A modern-day sonar showed the barge in 12 feet of water.

An elaborate, 5,000-square-foot underground bomb shelter supposedly exists beneath a Mount Dora neighborhood west of Lake Gertrude on Morningside Drive.

According to legend, “The Catacombs” was built by a group of prominent Mount Dora citizens and had its own medical clinic, kitchen, recreation room, sewage system, air conditioning and water filtration system.

It was designed to house 100 people and keep them alive and safe for six months.

2015 VISITOR/NEWCOMER’S GUIDE 105

Numerous travelers on Rolling Acres Road in Lady Lake have reported hearing screams and roars throughout the woods on both sides of road. And a bright white ghostly figure has been seen walking along the road.

Notorious gangster Al Capone vacationed at the Waterman Hotel in Eustis.

The fawn used in the movie “The Yearling” came from Lake County.

Walt Disney’s parents Elisa and Flora Call were married in Lake County and lived (for a short time) in Acron, today known as Paisley.

British Royal botanist William Bartram made the first sighting of a royal palm tree in North America in Lake County in 1774.

The Institute of Medical Excellence is your first line of defense for your husband’s office full of sniffling, sneezing co-workers. Our primary care physicians are there for everything from regular checkups and treating common ailments, to promoting wellness programs like weight loss or smoking cessation. We’re also excellent at heading off illnesses before they have a chance to take hold…

Becky brought Ted in on Friday and they both got a flu shot. Ted made it through the week without a single sniffle.

[ we’re on it. ]

COMPLETE MARK 4/C »

& INVESTMENTS

NO ONE KNOWS LAKE COUNTY LIKE WE DO. 352.435.HOME // 10135 U.S. Hwy. 441, Suite 3, Leesburg, FL 34788 352.530.2665 // 1217 W Miller St., Suite 6, Fruitland Park, FL 34731 MorrisRealtors.com