<![CDATA[MOUNT DORA BUZZ - What\'s Hot...]]>

<![CDATA[MOUNT DORA BUZZ - What\'s Hot...]]>Fri, 17 Apr 2026 21:36:09 -0400Weebly<![CDATA[Best local Mother’s Day outings & restuarants]]>Sun, 01 May 2022 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.mountdorabuzz.com/whats-hot/best-local-mothers-day-outings-restuarants

Planning a fun and thoughtful Mother’s Day doesn’t have to break the bank. To help plan the perfect day, here's Mount Dora Buzz’s cheat sheet of the best local Mother's Day outings and restaurants that run the gamut from cheap to a bit pricey.

thoughful outtings with mom

Boat Rides on Lake Dora
Choose between a relaxing cruise on the Dora Queen, a New Orleans-style paddlewheel boat with a full bar, or a guided tour of the Dora Canal on the Rusty Anchor or Premier Boat Tours.
Cost: Approximately $15-$37 per person depending on the option selected

Horse-drawn Carriage Ride
Take mom and up to three other people on a half-hour ride through downtown Mount Dora.
Cost: $100

Picnic at Trimble Park
This scenic park is draped in a mature oak canopy and straddles Lake Beauclaire and Lake Carlton just south of Mount Dora. The 71-acre natural paradise has shaded picnic tables and benches tucked throughout.
Cost: There is no entry fee to the park
Location: 5802 Trimble Park Road, Mount Dora (Tangerine)

Noonan Butterfly Garden
On your way to lunch or brunch, surprise mom with a stop by this little treasure, located at the W.T. Bland Library. It may be a small garden, but it’s currently abuzz with blooming flowers, and they are sure to bring a smile.
Cost: Free
Location: 1995 N. Donnelly Street, Mount Dora

Emerald Cut Kayak Adventure
This 2-hour guided tour from crystal-clear Emerald Cut at Rock Springs Run is perfect for beginners or advanced paddlers. It’s a great way for mom to enjoy lush nature with a sandy bottom beneath her paddle.
Cost: $59 per person, all gear included.
Location: King’s Landing, 5722 Baptist Camp Rd, Apopka, FL 32712

U-pick Blueberries
This is the perfect activity if Mom loves the outdoors and healthy, local produce, Here’s a list of the best U-pick farms nearby. Some, like Atwood Farms, also provide shaded picnic areas and other activities.

Mount Dora Marc Walking Tours
If Mom is new to the area or you have company in town celebrating Mother’s Day, this informative and leisurely walking tour is the perfect activity before taking her to lunch. The tour starts at 10 a.m.  Read more
Cost: $20 per person

Walking Trails
If Mom loves nature, pack a picnic lunch and take her on one of the beautiful nature trails in the area.  More info

great dining options for mom

When you’re looking for a slightly indulgent meal for mom, try one of these options:

Goblin Market, downtown Mount Dora
Chris’ Place, downtown Eustis
Mission Inn, Howey-in-the Hills
Pisces Rising, downtown Mount Dora
Olive Branch, downtown Mount Dora
Lakeside Inn, downtown Mount Dora
Cafe Gianni, downtown Mount Dora

If you’re looking for someplace delicious, but more casual, these diverse options offer a wide variety of delicious food and attentive service.

El Mezcal, Mount Dora
Shiva Indian Restaurant, downtown Mount Dora
Las Palmas Cuban Restaurant, downtown Mount Dora
Momiji Sushi & Japanese Restaurant, Eustis (near Sorrento)
J.K. Thai Garden, downtown Mount Dora
La Perla Tapatia Mexican Restaurant, Eustis
Frog & Monkey, downtown Mount Dora
Tiki West, downtown Tavares

nearby escapes for mom

Canaveral Seashore (more info)
Apopka Wildlife Drive (more info)
Downtown Winter Garden (more info)
The Dali Museum, St. Petersburg (more info)
Leu Gardens, Orlando (more info)
Central Florida Zoo, Sanford (more info)
Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales (more info)

Sign up for the free Mount Dora Buzz' monthly updates here. For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app.

]]><![CDATA[POLL: What retailers would you like to see in Mount Dora]]>Sun, 01 May 2022 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.mountdorabuzz.com/whats-hot/poll-what-retailers-would-you-like-to-see-in-mount-dora

Tired of travelling to some of your favorite national stores? Tell us what retailers you would like to open a location in Mount Dora on U.S. 441. We'll let the winning companies know and publish the results on Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook. Click here for the poll.

]]><![CDATA[Vote for the 2022 Best of Mount Dora!]]>Sun, 01 May 2022 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.mountdorabuzz.com/whats-hot/vote-for-the-2022-best-of-mount-dora

It's that time of year again to show your favorite local businesses some big love by voting in the Best of Mount Dora Awards. The annual awards give bragging rights to all types of businesses including restaurants, bars, shops and more. Get your ballot here.

]]><![CDATA[16 uncommon hurricane tips you need]]>Sun, 01 Aug 2021 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.mountdorabuzz.com/whats-hot/16-uncommon-hurricane-tips-you-need

Every year, Florida residents hear the standard basics of hurricane preparedness --“fill up your gas tank,” “buy batteries,” or “get cash from the ATM.” Below are the lesser known, yet important hacks to prepare for a hurricane:

HURRICANE HACKS

Hand sanitizer & baby wipes: Imagine no running water, no A/C and 90+ degrees outside. Need we say more? If you have no running water, it’s the best way to wash your hands and surfaces. Keep them in the kitchen and in every bathroom.
Gasoline additive: When filling up gas cans for generators, be sure to include the necessary additive so the gas doesn’t go bad. Yes, gas goes bad sitting in gas cans.
Peanut butter & jerky: Forget the jelly. Non-perishable proteins are hard to find. Grab a few jars of peanut butter and bags of jerky, but no need to eat them together!
Cold brew coffee: When the power is out, cold brew is the easiest way to get your caffeine fix in the morning. Big bottles are usually available at your local grocery store or Target.
Frozen jugs: Fill empty plastic jugs, Tupperware containers or Ziplock bags with tap water and store in your freezer. They can serve as ice packs to keep your freezer cold and then become your drinking water. Be sure to leave space in the containers for expansion in the freezer.
Paper plates & cups: If you lose running water, these are essential to bypass the pile-up of dirty dishes.
Lysol or Clorox wipes: It’s the best way to clean surfaces if there’s no running water.
Chainsaw: Make sure you have fuel. If you don’t have a chainsaw, quickly make friends with someone who does and keep their phone number handy.
Battery-operated candles & solar powered garden lights: Put these lights in the bathrooms, on nightstands and everywhere else to remove the risk of fire that regular candles pose. If you use solar lights, just put them in the yard during daylight hours to recharge them daily until your electricity is back.
External phone batteries: We can’t imagine you’ll forget, but remember to charge all of your external phone batteries.
Alerts: Sign up for your county’s emergency push-alerts to be texted to your phone. That way when power is out, you’re still in the loop.
Be a shutterbug: Take photos of the interior and exterior of your home for insurance purposes. Also snap a photo of all of your insurance policy numbers. Then upload the pics onto your cloud storage for safe keeping.
Gasoline availability: A good way to stay up-to-date on which local stations have gas is www.gasbuddy.com .
Do all your laundry: You know those five loads of laundry piling up? Now is the time. Remember, you may not have water or power after the storm, but at least you’ll have clean underwear.
Extra pool chlorine: Hurricanes can dump a lot of rain. Be prepared to add some chlorine to your pool’s water after the storm is over.
Stash important papers: Place your homeowners insurance policy and other important documents in a ziplock bag and put them in your dryer for elevated safe-keeping.

“In your hurricane preparation, ensure you have a 'go bag' of important items that you will need if you choose to evacuate,” said Lynette Barba of Allstate Insurance in Mount Dora. “And be sure to have your homeowner, auto, and flood insurance policy numbers handy in case you have to file a claim and you don't have the policies with you.”

In addition to having one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days and a three-day supply of non-perishable food, Barba also encouraged residents to have essential items on hand like a battery-powered NOAA weather radio, flashlight, a whistle to signal for help, a can opener, and extra batteries.

Sign up for the free Mount Dora Buzz' monthly updates here. For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app.

]]><![CDATA[DAY TRIPPIN’ TO FERNANDINA BEACH]]>Thu, 01 Jul 2021 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.mountdorabuzz.com/whats-hot/day-trippin-to-fernandina-beach

Just 35 miles northeast of Jacksonville sits one of Florida’s authentic gems. Cloaked in centuries of history, Fernandina Beach offers visitors a charming downtown at the northern tip of pristine Amelia Island. Its downtown tree-lined streets are filled with well-maintained historic homes, quaint shops and diverse eateries ranging from casual fresh seafood to fine ethnic dining. The open-air bars are hopping spots with fun atmospheres and live music, yet visitors to the area also include young families.

Located in Nassau County, the area was first settled by the Timucuan Indian people, but later fell under the Spanish flag when Fernandina was named for King Ferdinand VII of Spain. History buffs, shoppers, foodies and those that love Florida’s great outdoors will find plenty to do in this charming town.

EXPLORE DOWNTOWN

Sunset at the harbor
Mega yachts and smaller vessels are moored in the downtown harbor which provides spectacular sunsets. The harbor is just a stone's throw from the restaurants, bars and shops along Centre Street.

Downtown Shopping
Fernandina Beach is a true shopper’s paradise. It’s not a souvenir or chain retail environment, but rather an abundance of unique shops with interesting wares to browse along the Centre Street area.

Downtown Dining
For a casual lunch of fresh seafood, order at the counter at Timoti’s Seafood Shack and sit at their outdoor patio. Their blackened shrimp tacos are among the very best for flavor and freshness. Landlubbers can opt for Island Kitchen for a lunch menu of fresh salads and sandwiches. For a memorable dinner and excellent tapas, head to Espana Restaurant just off Centre Street. Anyone craving Italian will find Caio is a great choice for Italian fare.

Artrageous Artwalk
On the second Saturday of each month, local galleries host open houses to showcase their creative works. Visitors can meet the artists and take in original paintings, photography, metal work, jewelry, pottery and glass work. Artrageous Artwalks are from 5 - 8 p.m. from April to September, and 4 - 7 p.m. October to March.

Marlin & Barrel Distillery
For some adulting time, make a stop at this craft distillery that makes rum, vodka and gin by hand with local ingredients.

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Ferry ride to Cumberland Island
Cumberland Island, is Georgia's largest barrier island, includes 9,800 acres of Cumberland Island National Seashore. The island boasts undeveloped beaches, wild horses, scenic marshes, diverse wildlife and historic sites that include the 20,000 square-foot Plum Orchard Mansion that operates as an inn.
The island is accessible from the Greyfield Inn Ferry which departs the Fernandina Marina three times a day. Ferry service must be arranged in advance with the Inn.

Main Beach Park
32 N. Fletcher Avenue, Fernandina Beach
Just a few minutes drive from downtown Fernandina, this spot is a gorgeous place to watch the sunrise. This public beach isn’t packed like many Florida beaches. The park has restrooms and adequate free parking

Boat Tour
Backwater Cat Adventure takes adventurers on a two-and-a-half-hour tour on a two-person, motorized catamaran. A tour guide navigates the tour group through the area’s scenic river, backwaters and marshes to Cumberland Island and Fort Clinch. The tour departs from the downtown Fernandina harbor.

Boneyard Beach
The hidden secret is tucked about 15 minutes south from Fernandina Beach on Big Talbot Island State Park. The pristine three miles of shoreline along the Nassau Sound is a natural maze of massive driftwood and makes for a unique picnic spot. Due to the tides and large driftwood hidden beneath the water’s surface, swimming is not allowed.

Fernandina Beach Skate Park
25 Tarpon Street, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Located next to Main Beach Park, this public skate park features a variety of ramps, verts, half pipes and obstacles for skateboarders and inline skaters who skate at their own risk. Helmets are required. Restrooms are available at Main Beach Park. Parking available.

THE ARTS & history

Artrageous Artwalk
On the second Saturday of each month, local galleries host open houses to showcase their creative works. Visitors can meet the artists and take in original paintings, photography, metal work, jewelry, pottery and glass work. Artrageous Artwalks are from 5 - 8 p.m. from April to September, and 4 - 7 p.m. October to March.

Fort Clinch State Park
2601 Atlantic Avenue, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Nature lovers and history buffs alike enjoy this 1400-acre park, strategically positioned on the St. Mary’s River, which is home to a historic fort and diverse species of wildlife. Visitors to the fort can explore its spacious grounds and many rooms and galleries while learning about the life of Union soldiers that used the fort during the Civil War. The pristine park has many trails that enable hikers and bikers to enjoy the wooded live oak hammocks.

Follow Mount Dora Buzz on Instagram. For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app.

]]><![CDATA[DAY TRIPPIN' TO DELAND]]>Thu, 27 May 2021 16:09:44 GMThttps://www.mountdorabuzz.com/whats-hot/day-trippin-mount-dora-to-deland

Located a short drive east of Eustis, sits Florida’s oldest college town. Not only is the historic town home to picturesque Stetson University, Florida’s oldest higher educational institution, but it also attracts visitors to its walkable downtown lined with historic buildings, interesting shops and diverse restaurants for every taste. For outdoorsy visitors, DeLand also offers sprawling parks with trails and plenty of waterfront for kayaking, canoeing and fishing.

Here are just some of the fun ways to soak up a day trip to DeLand.

SHOPPING , DINING & IMBIBING

ABOVE: Persimmon Hollow Brewing (photo credit: West Volusia County Tourism Advertising Authority)

Head to downtown’s Woodland Avenue for a unique shopping experience in stores like Anna Bananas, Groovy Records, Marketplace at Rivertown, The Anointed Olive and Scullery Kitchen Provisions. Make a pit stop at Sidecar Home Market and Bar for a cocktail and nostalgic Mid-century shopping.

Craft beer lovers can stroll down Artisan Alley to check out Persimmon Hollow Brewing Company located in the city’s SoNY neighborhood. The micro-brewery rotates some of its craft beers, which include a coffee porter, lager, blonde ale and IPA throughout the year and offers them on draft in its pet-friendly tap room. (111 West Georgia Avenue, DeLand, FL, 32720). If you need a nosh, you can walk over to Neighbors Artisan Taqueria or Bake Chop across the alley for fresh and flavorful food. For a more extraordinary dining experience, make a reservation at Cress, consistently rated among the best of Central Florida’s restaurants (103 West Indiana Avenue, DeLand FL).

ARTS & ARCHITECTURE

ABOVE: The Stetson Mansion (photo credit: West Volusia County Tourism Advertising Authority)

Downtown Mural Walk
This self-guided walk takes visitors on a creative outdoor adventure through the scenic streets of the city’s historic downtown to view 15 vibrant murals. Maps are available for download.

Sculpture Walk
Take the self-guided walk through historic downtown DeLand to enjoy more than a dozen sculpture installations. The Sculpture Walk features artwork that changes annually and features a variety of styles and media including bronze, concrete, aluminum, copper, stainless steel and PVC.

Museum of Art DeLand
Established in 1951, the MoA-Deland has a permanent collection of more than 750 pieces, as well as special temporary exhibits. The venue also hosts special events including art receptions, gallery talks, and artist workshops.
600 North Woodland Boulevard, DeLand, FL, 32720, Phone: 386-734-4371

African American Museum of the Arts
Founded in 1994 and located in historic DeLand, the seat of Volusia County Government, AAMA is a unique and vital resource in this part of Florida.

This museum is dedicated to African American cultures and art. The museum has a permanent collection of more than 150 artifacts, including sculptures and masks, and its gallery features work of established and emerging artists. Visitors should call ahead for any changes in schedule due to COVID-19 restrictions.
325 South Clara Avenue, DeLand, FL, 32721, Phone: 386-736-4004

The Athens Theatre
Originally designed by Murray S. King in 1921, this historic theater was named for the original vision of the city’s founder Henry DeLand, who envisioned the Central Florida town as the "Athens of Florida." During its historic heyday, the theatre came alive with films, vaudeville performances, and other events. Now the fully restored theater hosts live musical and theatrical performances, and also screens various films throughout the year.
124 North Florida Avenue, DeLand, FL

Stetson Mansion
The three-story Victorian mansion is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Built in approximately 1886, the home is touted as Florida’s first luxury estate with guests that included King Edward VII, Thomas Edison, President Grover Cleveland, and members of the prestigious Vanderbilt and Carnegie families. Today guests can opt for a 60- or 90-minute guided tour of the home. Visitors should call ahead for any changes in schedule due to COVID-19 restrictions.
1031 Camphor Lane, DeLand, FL, 32720, Phone: 386-873-0167

Stetson University
Well known for its classic red-brick buildings and Greco-Roman inspired architecture, Stetson University was founded in 1883 as DeLand Academy, named in honor of its founder, Henry Addison DeLand.
421 North Woodland Boulevard, DeLand, FL, 32723

OUTDOOR FUN

ABOVE: One of the many trails in the area (photo credit: West Volusia County Tourism Advertising Authority)

Blue Heron River Tours
Bask in the beauty of the beautiful Hontoon Dead River and St. John's River during the eco-tours aboard the Great Blue pontoon vessel. Tour guides provide information on the local habitats and ecosystems and explore the manatee refuge of nearby Blue Springs. Passengers may snap a pic of alligators, various wading birds, turtles and anhingas. The river tours operate daily between autumn and spring, and have weekend tours available during the summer.
2999 West State Road 44, St. John's Marina and Resort, DeLand, FL, 32720, Phone: 386-873-4843

Hontoon Island State Park
Located just six miles west of DeLand, this pristine waterfront park spans over 1,600 acres of wooded hammock across Hontoon Island. The natural park is only accessible by boat or ferry. Visitors can picnic, hike, fish, and cycle or paddle the waterfront via canoe or kayak. Fishing is permitted, but swimming is not. Guests that want to stay overnight can check out the rental cabins and tent campsite which are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
2309 River Ridge Road, DeLand, FL, 32720

Highland Park Fish Camp
Young and old fishermen will enjoy this historic Old Florida fish camp that sits along the scenic Norris Dead River near Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge. Visitors can rent boats or seek help from experienced fishing guides to angle Largemouth Bass. Bait and tackle are available for purchase at the fish camp. The 23,000 acre camp also offers overnight camping accommodations that include cabins as well as RV and tent campsites.
2640 West Highland Park Road, DeLand, FL, 32720, Phone: 386-734-233

ODDS & ENDS

ABOVE: DeLand Wings mural (photo credit: West Volusia County Tourism Advertising Authority)

The Reptile Discovery Center
This experience is one to remember, but may not be for the snake-fearing or squeamish. Reptile Discovery Center provides guests an up-close look at some of Florida's most dangerous reptiles, including deadly snakes. The Serpentarium includes exotic snake species from mature constrictors like Burmese pythons to deadly king cobras, mambas and coral snakes. Visitors can view alligators and other reptiles in outside habitats. Guests can watch live venom extraction demonstrations each Thursday through Sunday throughout the afternoon hours within the center's Medtoxin Venom Laboratories facility. This extraction or “milking” is to commercially harvest venom for antitoxin companies to provide hospitals with antidotes to treat patients with venomous snake bites. Visitors should call ahead for any changes in schedule due to COVID-19 restrictions.
2710 Big John Drive, Deland, FL, 32724, Phone: 386-740-9143

DeLand Naval Air Station Museum
Operated as a U.S. military facility from 1942 to 1946, it was re-converted into DeLand Municipal Airport after World War II. The museum's aircraft collection includes an F-14 Tomcat, an H-13 Sioux M.A.S.H. helicopter, a USN PTF-3 and a Grumman Avenger torpedo bomber. The historic Chief Master at Arms House at the museum has housed numerous aviation exhibits. Guided tours of the museum are available by reservation Wednesdays through Sundays. Visitors should call ahead for any changes in schedule due to COVID-19 restrictions.
910 Biscayne Boulevard, DeLand, FL, 32724, Phone: 386-738-4149

Follow Mount Dora Buzz on Instagram. For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app.

]]><![CDATA[DAY TRIPPIN': MOUNT DORA TO WINTER GARDEN]]>Mon, 01 Mar 2021 05:00:00 GMThttps://www.mountdorabuzz.com/whats-hot/day-trippin-to-winter-garden

From retro throwbacks to quaint and charming, Central Florida’s historic downtowns all have their own unique vibe. No doubt Winter Garden’s vibrant downtown has been growing in popularity with millennials and young families over the last decade, and it’s a destination that never disappoints.

Located in the western part of Orange County, Winter Garden’s well-preserved historic district is just 25 minutes from downtown Mount Dora. Originally finding prominence as an orange packing community, the city's picturesque downtown has transformed into a haven for bicyclists, shoppers, diners, families and history buffs.

Visitors will find ample free parking on the streets or within the city's two-story, three-level brick parking garage on Boyd Street. As designed, the spacious new parking garage blends into the historic buildings, so visitors should keep an eye out for directional signs.

Here are some fun things to include while day trippin':

HISTORY BUFFS

ABOVE: The historic Edgewater Hotel on Plant Street.

Upon arriving downtown, stop inside the small, yet insightful, Winter Garden Heritage Museum on Plant Street, which provides a glance at the rich history of the area. On the same block is the neighboring Central Florida Railroad Museum, which highlights the influence the railroad had in the early development of Florida.

A few steps inside the renovated Edgewater Hotel transports visitors back in time. It’s antique furnishings, fixtures and original 1926 elevator give it the feeling of historic authenticity. Adjacent to its small lobby is an old-fashioned ice cream shop complete with old-school chocolate malts, plus a small-town barber shop reminiscent of downtown Mayberry.

HUGE FARMERS MARKET

ABOVE: The award-winning Winter Garden Farmers Market

On Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Winter Garden’s award-winning Farmers Market offers up everything from local organic produce, fresh cheeses and chocolate-covered raspberry key lime pie on a stick to live music, handmade items and fresh baked goods. Over the years, this sprawling community market on Lakeview Avenue has reportedly grown to be the largest Farmers Market in Florida and has won numerous awards.

ART & CULTURE LOVERS

ABOVE: The historic Garden Theatre on Plant Street.

Creative types should stroll off Plant Street to the 127 SOBO Art Gallery located in Winter Garden’s original fire station on Boyd Street. The intimate gallery hosts regular new exhibits showcasing area artists and featuring affordably priced original art.

Built in 1935 as a single-screen cinema, the historic Garden Theatre on Plant Street underwent an extensive restoration and reopened in 2008. Inside the Mediterranean revival-style venue, audiences can enjoy a variety of scheduled performances including plays, concerts, movies and dance.

GOOD EATS & LIBATIONS

ABOVE: The Whole Enchilada, one of many downtown eateries.

There are a plethora of excellent dining options on and around downtown’s Plant Street. Rosallie, a casual French bistro, is a must for anyone in need of a stellar cup of joe, craving decadent baked goods, or looking for a good lunch. Axum Coffee is another top spot for a rich morning latte or strong mid-day espresso.

Flavorful lunches and dinners can be found at many downtown eateries, including Melts on Main which dishes out excellent sandwiches and salads for lunch, The Whole Enchilada with its fresh take on Mexican fare and lively rooftop bar, as well as Thai Blossom that features authentic Asian dishes. The Winter Garden Food Tour is the perfect option for visitors who can’t decide on which great restaurant to try. This walking tour takes guests to sample dishes at some of the area’s culinary hot spots while also sharing historical information about the district.

For more upscale dining, The Chefs Table and the Tasting Room are excellent choices located inside the block-long historic Edgewater Hotel. Another option with rave reviews is Market to Table with its modern American cuisine and craft cocktails. Reservations are a good idea at these popular dining establishments.

If you’re looking for stellar live music, a nice glass of wine and cool ambiance, step inside The Attic Door, a casual and swanky wine bar and bistro on Plant Street. Their tasting tower is perfect for sharing and nibbling while sipping your favorite vino.

PLANT STREET MARKET

ABOVE: Crooked Can Brewing at Plant Street Market (photo taken pre-COVID-19)

Located on the edge of downtown and tucked among massive live oaks and winding sidewalks, this popular culinary venue appears as if it’s sat there for generations, but it’s actually a relatively recent addition to Winter Garden. The historic-inspired brick building features approximately 20 vendors offering high-quality food, plus some kiosks selling hand-made items. The Crooked Can Brewing Company, a popular microbrewery and tasting room with an expansive outdoor patio, is also located at Plant Street Market.

family fun

ABOVE: Downtown's Splash Pad on Plant Street.

The paved, 22-mile West Orange Trail runs right through downtown Winter Garden, so throwing the bikes in the car makes for a fun weekend adventure. The multi-use trail is built along old railroad alignments and connects the area to downtown Oakland and Apopka to the north. In the warmer months, families can stop at the free downtown Splash Pad to cool off after a long bike ride. Bikes are also available for rental at Bikes and Blades located at mile marker 0 of the West Orange Trail.

HOW TO GET THERE...

Take US 441 South to 429 South and exit on Plant Street. Turn right at the end of the off-ramp and it will take you right into the center of the historic district.

Follow Mount Dora Buzz on Instagram. For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, this month, click here. Discover the area's online event calendar here. Also download the area's free mobile app.

]]><![CDATA[BEST BLOODY MARYS IN MOUNT DORA, TAVARES & EUSTIS]]>Mon, 08 Feb 2021 05:00:00 GMThttps://www.mountdorabuzz.com/whats-hot/best-bloody-marys-in-mount-dora-tavares-eustis

Is it the crispy bacon, the plump shrimp or the pickled asparagus? The dash of Tabasco or the heaps of horseradish? Whatever the accoutrements, folks are loyal about their fave place to indulge in the best Bloody Marys. Share your favorite local spot in Mount Dora, Tavares or Eustis to imbibe in this savory elixir and help them claim the title of "Best Bloody Marys."

Vote for Best Bloody Mary

]]><![CDATA[DAY TRIPPIN': MOUNT DORA TO HONEYMOON ISLAND]]>Mon, 01 Feb 2021 05:00:00 GMThttps://www.mountdorabuzz.com/whats-hot/day-trippin-mount-dora-to-honeymoon-island

One of the best kept secrets from Central Floridians is the unspoiled treasure a mere 130 miles west of Mount Dora just off the coast from historic Dunedin. A scenic causeway connects the mainland to Honeymoon Island State Park. with four miles of some of the most unspoiled white sandy beaches in the state. Read more

]]><![CDATA[LOCAL HOT SPOT: Wolf Branch Brewing]]>Sat, 01 Aug 2020 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.mountdorabuzz.com/whats-hot/local-hot-spot-wolf-branch-brewing

On sweltering Florida summer days, it doesn’t get much better than cooling off with a favorite icy cold brew with friends. The summer of 2020 has made it challenging for local bars, but one local micro brewery and bar is making sure it’s still able to satisfy beer lovers’ cravings. Read more

Local Dining Guide

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