Local Directory — The Villages, Ocala & Central Florida
Restaurants, bars, venues, and more across the region
Aesops Park
TavaresCommunity park with playground, open space, and picnic areas. A family-friendly spot for outdoor recreation and community gatherings.
Bella Nonna Pizzeria & More
TavaresNew York-style pizza and Italian favorites in Tavares with late-night hours that make it the go-to after everything else closes. The pies are legit, the garlic knots are addictive, and the casual vibe keeps the neighborhood coming back.
Bowl 360 Tavares
TavaresBowling center in Tavares with modern lanes, an arcade, bar and grill, and cosmic bowling nights. A fun outing for families, groups, and league bowlers alike.
Bru Tap House
TavaresThirty craft taps with a local focus, live music, board games, and the kind of laid-back energy that makes downtown Tavares feel like it's having a moment. If you're looking for the heartbeat of the local craft beer scene, this is it.
BTW - Burgers Tacos Waffles
TavaresFrom the folks behind Bru Tap House comes this food-truck-concept-turned-brick-and-mortar. The name tells you exactly what to expect -- burgers, tacos, and waffles -- and they do all three well. The waffle fries are dangerously good.
BTW's Crafted Concoctions
TavaresCreative cocktail bar, new American kitchen, and coffee shop in downtown Tavares known for seasonal pop-up transformations and inventive craft concoctions.
Deer Island Country Club
TavaresSemi-private 18-hole championship golf course designed by Joe Lee on 400 secluded acres surrounded by the Harris Chain of Lakes, with water on all 18 holes and home to bald eagles and diverse birdlife.
Desperados Saloon
TavaresDesperados Saloon is a lively bar and entertainment venue offering competition-level billiards, drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Discovery Gardens
TavaresFree 3.5-acre botanical garden at the UF/IFAS Lake County Extension Center featuring 28 themed garden areas with over 700 plant species showcasing Florida-native and Florida-friendly gardening.
Dora Queen Paddlewheel Cruises
TavaresAn 80-foot New Orleans-style paddlewheel boat cruising Lake Dora. The two-hour tours are scenic and relaxed, and the boat is available for private events. It's one of those experiences that feels like it belongs in another era -- in the best way.
Far Reach Ranch UPICK Farm
TavaresFamily-owned U-pick farm and event space on the shores of Lake Dora offering seasonal strawberry, blueberry, and blackberry picking, plus craft jams, honey, and baked goods.
Float in the Forest at Lake Idamere
TavaresA unique outdoor art and nature experience on the shores of Lake Idamere, Float in the Forest combines floating sculpture installations with hiking trails through native Florida woodland. The site features rotating art pieces that float on the lake surface, a boardwalk through cypress wetlands, and curated nature paths. It's a one-of-a-kind attraction that blends art, ecology, and tranquility.
Foxtail Coffee Co. - Tavares
TavaresFoxtail Coffee Co. in Winter Park offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for unwinding or getting work done, with exceptional coffee sourced ethically from around the world.
Hurricane Dockside Grill-Tavares
TavaresTropical-themed chain offering spiced-to-order wings with an array of sauces, pub grub & a full bar.
Ingraham park
TavaresLeafy public park featuring shaded benches, a playground, scenic water views & a walking path.
Ironworks Steaks and Fine Cocktails
TavaresDowntown Tavares finally got the upscale steakhouse it deserved. Ironworks brings aged steaks and craft cocktails to Ruby Street with a vibe that's polished but not stuffy. Limited hours mean you plan your visit -- and that's part of the appeal.
Jones Brothers Air & Seaplane Adventures
TavaresTake off from America's Seaplane City on a scenic flight over Central Florida's stunning lake country. From quick scenic hops to fly-in lunch excursions, this is a bucket-list Florida experience.
Jungle Zone
TavaresJungle Zone is the premier indoor inflatable play park for children of all ages in Lake County, Florida.
Kalua Beach Bar
TavaresA lakefront bar with Hawaiian-inspired food, Lake Dora views, and live music on weekends. The vibe is Jimmy Buffett meets lake town Florida -- laid back, sandy-footed, and exactly where you want to be on a Friday night.
Lady of the Lakes Renaissance Faire
TavaresStep into the adventure at the Lady of the Lakes Renaissance Faire, where participants immerse themselves in the intrigue of the Gunpowder Plot of 1606 with interactive games and artisan showcases.
Lake County Historical Museum
TavaresThe Lake County Historical Society and Museum is located on the first floor of the historic courthouse in Tavares, Florida.
Lake County Law Enforcement Memorial
TavaresMemorial honoring fallen Lake County law enforcement officers, located on West Main Street near the courthouse in Tavares.
Lake County Museum of Art
TavaresA free-admission art museum in downtown Tavares with rotating exhibitions that punch above what you'd expect for a small-town gallery. Donations welcome but not required. Worth a stop, especially if you're already walking Ruby Street.
Lake Harris Hideaway
TavaresBiker-owned, kid-friendly hangout featuring American eats plus a full bar & lakeside setting.