I Climbed Mount Dora 😂

A few weeks back, I visited Mount Dora on 2 separate occasions… the first time with Ann & Mary and a week later with Kim. Mount Dora is an eclectic, quaint town in Central FL … it has familiar similarities to New Hope, PA. This lakefront community is nestled in gentle hills & orange groves. It’s elevation of 184 feet makes it Florida’s highest community. The town certainly marketed that distinction with tons of items that read “I climbed Mount Dora … elevation 184 feet”.

Mount Dora is a laid back, relaxed town that caters to antique enthusiasts. It is filled with boutiques, galleries, outdoor cafes, a winery & bed/breakfast inns. Rich in history, the Lakeside Inn, overlooking Lake Dora opened in 1883. Our golf cart tour guide, Jake informed us that both Al Capone & Calvin Coolidge slept there. It is the oldest continuously operating hotel in Florida.

The town’s congregational church dates back to 1883 and is still in use. A controversial residential home was painted to replicate Van Gogh’s Starry Night. This mural assisted the owners autistic son so he could find his way home. There was a yearlong battle between the owner & the city, the owner won & the mayor apologized. Google it.

The town offers tons of shops to explore & plenty of diverse restaurants to choose from. The food was outstanding at both restaurants – The LakeSide Inn & The Goblin Market. Below are photos from both visits. Enjoy !