Local Directory — The Villages, Ocala & Central Florida
Restaurants, bars, venues, and more across the region
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.
Citrus On the Lake Boutique Hotel / Citrus Sky Bar Tavares
TavaresCasual hotel offering unassuming quarters, many with lake views, plus an outdoor pool & dining.
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.
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.
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 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.
Nautilus Coffee Company
TavaresAn adventure-themed artisanal coffee shop in downtown Tavares decorated with nautical trinkets and gizmos. The drinks are crafted with care, the atmosphere invites lingering, and it's the kind of local coffee shop that gives a town its personality.
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.