Things To Do
Downtown Tavares
Tavares is where The Citrus Hotel is located and where a majority of the weekend events will be centered. Located about 40 miles northwest of Orlando, Tavares is a charming lakeside gem known for its seaplane landings and beautiful waterfront scenery. Downtown Tavares blends historic character with a lively, waterfront lifestyle. Dubbed as the "“Seaplane Capital of the World!” you'll likely see at least one, if not several, seaplanes taking off and landing gracefully on Lake Dora, Lake Eustis or Lake Harris. If you are brave enough, you can even take a scenic flight yourself!
The Argonaut Bar and Lounge
This one-of-a-kind, submarine-themed speakeasy tucked into downtown is one of our favorite spots in Tavares! They have an immersive 1920s-'30s vibe, complete with portholes, velvet booths and nautical accents. The Argonaut truly transports you under the sea while offering a welcoming and unique spot for creative cocktails, craft beers, and sharable tapas like charcuterie, flatbreads, and beer-cheese bites.
BTW - Burgers Tacos Waffles
Burgers - Tacos - Waffles - need we say more? BTW is Tavares's very own vibrant food-truck-inspired eatery turned brick-and-mortar spot. They specialize in creative and southern inspired comfort food, like signature burgers, inventive tacos (pick-3 flights available!) and indulgent waffles. Perfect for a relaxed bite or a couple drinks, this trendy and cozy space has indoor and outdoor seating, plus a full bar that serves craft beers, signature cocktails, wine and specialty coffees.
Desperados Saloon
Located on historic East Main Street, Desperados Saloon is Tavares' go-to sports bar, grill, and pool hall. A lively local favorite bar with a welcoming atmosphere. They have multiple well-kept pool tables and arcade games available, making it a fun spot for guests looking for casual entertainment. Burgers, wings, and bar snacks always pair nicely with a cold beer, delicious cocktail, wine or spirit.
Downtown Mount Dora
Located 10 minutes from Tavares and 20 minutes from Howey-In-The-Hills. Come to Katie and Michael’s hometown! Mount Dora is a picturesque gem brimming with small-town charm and lakeside elegance. Stroll beneath the live oaks and palm trees along the brick-lined town roads, which are lined with restored early 20th century storefronts. Mount Dora's Historic District truly evokes a "New England in the South" atmosphere. With over 25 locally owned boutiques and independent shops, you can discover artisan crafts, antiques, olive oils, home décor, and more! You can even ride in a horse-drawn carriage, trolley, or golf-cart tour through the historic streets while you shop, dine and enjoy the beautiful scenic views.
Pisces Rising
Perched right on the edge of Lake Dora in a classic 1919 bungalow, Pisces Rising is a great place to grab fresh Florida seafood, steak an seasonal Southern-inspired plates. Their outside bar offers an unforgettable sunset experience in Mount Dora. As golden hour approaches, guests can dine outside on the deck or by the tiki torches at the Tiki Bar, and enjoy a gorgeous sunset view over the water.
HandleBar
HandleBar is a chic and intimate cocktail lounge that has quickly become a favorite among the locals. With creative, artfully mixed drinks like old fashions and our personal favorite, the Saturn, its ideal for guests seeking a sophisticated and relaxed evening out.
WAVE - Asian Bistro & Sushi
Looking for a fun, food-forward spot in downtown Mount Dora? Wave Asian Bistro & Sushi is your destination. Their creative sushi innovations are truly striking - from sushi burritos, sushi hot dogs, sushi pizza, sushi burgers, and even sushi DONUTS! This famous spot has over 700 Yelp and Google reviews, and has even been featured on Good Morning America, USA Today, Narcity and Orlando Weekly!
Wekiva Island
Located 30 minutes from Tavares, FL. Nestled along the scenic Wekiva River in Longwood, Wekiva Island offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and local charm. If you want to explore the beautiful riverway, there are kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards available to rent, and guided tours available with Paddleboard Orlando. Grab a seat on the boardwalk, sip a cold beer or cocktail and unwind with live weekend music. To get some energy out, there is volleyball and cornhole ready to play, or enjoy a swim in the beautiful clear water of the river.
Walt Disney World
Located 40 minutes from Howey-In-The-Hills. “The Happiest Place on Earth!” 20 miles southwest of Orlando, Disney World has four major theme parks - Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. There are also two water parks, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon, with wave pools and slides.
Disney Springs
Located 40 minutes from Howey-In-The-Hills. If you want a little Disney without spending the big bucks, Disney Springs is free to park and free admission! There is outdoor shopping, celebrity-chef restaurants, cinemas and nightlife, available to the public for free 7 days a week!
Universal Studios Florida
Located 40 minutes from Howey-In-The-Hills. Universal Studios is a world-renowned theme park experience that immerses guests in the thrilling worlds of movies and entertainment. Visitors can embark on exciting rides, witness captivating shows, and explore themed lands based on popular film franchises and characters.
Universal CityWalk Orlando
Located 40 minutes from the Howey Mansion. Similar to Disney Springs, mini golf, endless bars, restaurants, shops, and a movie theater, City Walk is located just outside of Universal Studios and is free admission and free parking after 6pm