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.
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.
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.
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
TavaresAir-conditioned indoor family entertainment center in Tavares featuring inflatable bounce houses, slides, obstacle courses, trampolines, laser tag, and birthday party packages.
Lady of the Lakes Renaissance Faire
TavaresAnnual Renaissance festival in Tavares running since 2002, featuring jousting, archery, sword fighting, falconry, artisan vendors, and costumed reenactors, with all proceeds supporting Lake County public school teachers and students.
Lake County Historical Museum
TavaresFree museum on the first floor of the historic Tavares courthouse showcasing Lake County's history through rotating monthly exhibits and community programs.
Pontoon Yacht Club
TavaresLake County boating club established in 2005 offering monthly group pontoon outings to explore Florida's lakes with fellow pontoon boat enthusiasts.
Premier Boat Tours
TavaresGuided pontoon boat tours through the Dora Canal and Harris Chain of Lakes, showcasing Florida wildlife including alligators and ancient cypress trees.
Summerall Park
TavaresCommunity park in Tavares on Wells Avenue with green space, walking areas, and recreation facilities.
Tavares History Museum
TavaresSmall history museum inside a replica of Tavares' original 1800s train station, featuring railroad artifacts, local memorabilia, and displays honoring Tavares High School and historic homes.
Tavares Nature Park
TavaresNature park in Tavares offering walking trails, green space, and outdoor recreation along Milwaukee Avenue.
Tavares Park
TavaresLakeside park featuring a play structure, a seaplane-themed splash pad (fee) & picnic areas.
Tavares Theater Inc.
TavaresCommunity theater in Tavares staging musicals, comedies, and dramas throughout the year. A local cultural gem with talented performers and an intimate setting.