The New England of the South is Florida's Leading Antique Shopping Destination

A lighthouse on the lake, lantern-lit streets, and America’s cutest antique shops are just some of the charms of Mount Dora, Florida’s best-kept secret. This historic lake town is less than 30 miles from downtown Orlando, offering a completely different atmosphere in the best way possible. In place of theme parks and tourist traps, Mount Dora shines as a tranquil and down-to-earth escape, boasting fabulous historic sites, postcard-worthy natural scenes, and some of the best festivals in Florida.

Coupled with the town’s eclectic collection of antique stores, treasure hunters flock from all over the country to tour this “New England of the South.” Yet, whether dedicating an entire trip to the town's charms or stopping by as a theme park detour, you will not leave Mount Dora empty-handed. With cherished memories, a fresh perspective on Florida's small towns, and perhaps even an antique or two, this central Florida gem guarantees you will leave with some unforgettable souvenirs.

Looking Back: How History Shaped Mount Dora’s Heritage

Some 500 years ago, long before the Mount Dora we know today, the area was home to the Timucua Tribe. Frederick W. Sleight, an archaeologist who lived in Mount Dora, believed the Timucua people inhabited the shores of Lake Dora up until the tribe’s extinction in the early 1700s. The area remained mostly uninhabited until American settlers arrived in the early 1800s. Not unlike the Timucua people, these American settlers were attracted to the lake’s resources and beauty.

The origin of Lake Dora’s name is a point of contention. Local legends believe the waters were named after Dora Ann Drawdy, a homesteader who settled in the area around the mid-1800s. As for the “Mount” portion of the town’s name, this reflects Mount Dora’s hilly setting. The town is situated on a plateau that rises 184 feet above sea level, a striking contrast to Florida's generally flat landscape.

By the late 1800s, Mount Dora had blossomed into a winter retreat. The Alexander House hotel opened in 1883, and by 1887, the introduction of a railroad set Mount Dora's economy in motion, establishing its reputation as a tourist destination. Similar to other boom towns, Mount Dora took off even further in the early 1920s, its townspeople modernizing the community with public infrastructure and parks. Even during more difficult economic periods like the late 1920s, the town pushed on. Diligent community members continued to advance the town by raising funds for projects like the Mount Dora Community Building, built in 1929.

Today, Mount Dora proudly upholds its history and heritage with historic preservation and community building. As of the 2023 census, this close-knit group of 17,000 locals retains its reputation as a tourist destination while maintaining a small-town feel.

Top Tourist Sites And Attractions In Mount Dora

Lake Dora: An Oasis of Natural Beauty and Recreation

Of the seven Harris Chain Lakes, Lake Dora is the most well-known and popular due to its setting along Mount Dora. Located within the Ocklawaha River Watershed, this 4,385-acre lake is a year-round hub of activity. Waterfront spots like Palm Island Park are a great way to take advantage of the area’s beauty and sunshine. The 8-acre park features a variety of trails and a wooden boardwalk winding along the lake. Its fishing pier, picnic tables, and barbecue area are perfect for those looking to devote an entire day to Lake Dora’s beauty.

A short walk from downtown Mount Dora, Grantham Point Park visitors can enjoy much of the same amenities, including fishing spots and picnic tables. However, most come to this waterfront park for its spotlight landmark, the Mount Dora Lighthouse. Constructed in 1988, the 35-foot beacon helps boaters navigate the lake after dusk. However, the lighthouse’s iconic presence is what makes it shine the brightest. Right next door, the Mount Dora Marina also offers boat rentals for those looking to get out on the water, or you can make your way to the nearby Lakeside Inn for a 2-hour Premier Boat Tour.

Florida’s Longest-Running Hotel: The Historic Lakeside Inn

In addition to serving as the starting point for Premier Boat Tours, the Lakeside Inn is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts. Originally known as the Alexander House, the Lakeside Inn holds the title of Florida’s oldest continuously operated hotel. Since its opening in 1883, this Victorian accommodation has welcomed famous names like Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, and former US president Dwight D. Eisenhower. Its prestige even stretches back to prohibition, some believing the hotel held a secret speak-easy. Today, whether booking a stay or enjoying a lakefront meal at its on-site restaurant, The Verandah, the timeless elegance of this Mount Dora attraction is intoxicating.

Antiques, Antiques, Antiques!

Previously known as the “Antiques Capital of Florida,” Mount Dora still remains a popular treasure-hunting spot for those who love antiquing. The town is one of the most prominent stops on Florida’s Antique Trail, attracting shoppers and collectors from across the state and country. Top-rated stores include places like Mount Dora Vintage, Treasure Marts Mount Dora, and the Village Antique Mall, which hosts over 60 vendors.

As TripAdvidor’s #2 of 44 “things to do in Mount Dora,” Renninger's Flea Market & Antique Center stands out as the town’s top spot to hunt for treasures. The center is spread across 117 acres of land, with two main buildings and several outdoor shopping areas. Vendors sell everything from antiques and oddities to clothing and handcrafted jewelry.

Mount Dora: Florida’s Festival Town

With a rich history of tourism and community building, Mount Dora proudly embraces this heritage. Today, the close-knit town continues to foster a welcoming atmosphere and sense of community through its festivals and events. The Renninger's Antique Extravaganza is a crowd-favorite, described as “an antique lover’s dream.” In 2025, the triannual event will take place in April, June, and September, welcoming over 800 antique dealers and vendors.

In March of 2025, the 28th Spring Festival of Arts and Crafts will be held in Downtown Mount Dora. This award-winning event will feature over 250 artists, vendors, and exhibitors showcasing and selling their creative works. Equally exciting is the 11th Annual Mount Dora Blueberry Festival, scheduled for April 2025 at Donnelly Park. This free event celebrates the region's agricultural success with over 100 blueberry-themed booths, from foods to drinks and everything in between.

If you find yourself in Mount Dora in the summertime, Mount Dora’s Freedom on the Waterfront festival kicks off an early Independence Day on July 3rd. Promising old-fashioned fun, the event features food trucks, live music, and fireworks over Lake Dora. Toward the end of the year, Mount Dora’s events pick up speed in the fall, with the Annual Mount Dora Craft Fair, Annual Mount Dora Bicycle Festival, and Oktoberfest. Then in December, the Annual Mount Dora Christmas Walk, Christmas Parade, and New Year's Eve Celebration take center stage, ringing in a new year.

The Takeaway

For travelers who cherish the cozy atmosphere and historic charm of New England but crave the warmth and sunshine of Florida, this “New England of the South” truly offers the best of both worlds. Whether planning an entire getaway around this charming Florida town or stopping by after a trip to Orlando, your time in Mount Dora will not disappoint.

If your calendar is booked during Mount Dora’s festivals, you can still find plenty to enjoy year-round, from its picturesque lake and enchanting historic sites to its renowned antique shops. With over a century of experience in welcoming visitors, this Florida town may not be as popular as its neighboring cities but a visit here will prove that sometimes the smallest towns have the most to offer.