Hello From Orlando - Part 9 Exploring Scenic Mount Dora On The Herbie Express
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Travel Leisure -> subcategory Vacations.
Hello From Orlando - Part 9: Discovering Charming Mount Dora on the Herbie Express
In my search for unique spots near Orlando, I discovered Mount Dora, a quaint town just 45 minutes north, nestled by a beautiful lake and known for its picturesque railway.
Located 27 miles (43 km) northwest of Orlando, Mount Dora boasts the title of Florida's only "mountaintop town," perched 184 feet above Lake Dora. Its rolling hills provide a refreshing contrast to Florida's usual flat landscape.
The town's history dates back to the 1800s. Lake Dora was named in 1846 for Dora Ann Drawdy, an early settler. Originally called Royellou, after the children of the Postmaster R.C. Tremain, the town was renamed Mount Dora in 1883 and incorporated in 1910. Once relying on citrus, Mount Dora now thrives on tourism.
Mount Dora is celebrated for many reasons, including:
- The Friendliest Small Town
- Best Antique Shopping
- New England of the South
- Festival City
- A Top 100 Great Town in America
I was particularly drawn to the "Herbie Express," part of the Inland Lakes Railway. This hour-long ride takes you from Mount Dora to Tavares, offering a scenic journey in a vintage railcar, with a lively conductor sharing stories along the way. Other popular trains include the Lake County Champion and the Blue Swan Dinner Train.
The town's oldest structure, the Lakeside Inn, established in 1883, is a charming sight with its gingerbread trim and picturesque landscaping. Many tours start at the historic 1915 Atlantic Coast Line Depot, now the home of the Mount Dora Area Chamber of Commerce. Among the town's architectural gems is the Queen Anne-style Donnelly House, built in 1893.
Mount Dora boasts a wide array of specialty shops and is a haven for antique enthusiasts, with Renninger's Twin Markets being a standout destination. The town is also brimming with gift shops, art galleries, and quaint eateries.
As the "City of Parks," Mount Dora features numerous green spaces. Donnelly Park, dating back to 1924, offers free concerts and events. Evans Park provides a tranquil spot to relax by the waterfront, while the nearby Mount Dora Lawn Bowling Club hosts local and regional tournaments.
Other scenic spots include Simpson Cove and Grantham Point, home to Florida's only inland freshwater lighthouse. Palm Island Park offers a delightful hiking trail and boardwalk, where you can admire local wildlife and plants.
Mount Dora hosts a variety of annual events, such as the renowned "Mount Dora Arts Festival," attracting over 150,000 visitors each year, along with antique shows, craft fairs, and golf tournaments.
While exploring the town, my husband enjoyed a round of golf at the Mount Dora Golf Association. The area offers several other golf courses, including the Black Bear Golf Club and the Mission Inn Golf & Tennis Resort.
I wrapped up my visit with a delicious ice cream at the Sunshine Mountain Bakery, soaking up the sun and awaiting tales from my husband’s golfing adventures. Mount Dora proved to be a perfect day trip from Orlando, offering a charming escape into Florida’s countryside.
For more details, visit the Mount Dora Chamber of Commerce's website.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Hello From Orlando - Part 9 Exploring Scenic Mount Dora On The Herbie Express.
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