Local Directory
Restaurants, bars, venues, and more across the region
Arnold Palmer Legends Country Club
The VillagesUpscale fine dining and premium steakhouse overlooking the golf course. Hand-cut steaks aged to perfection and grilled over cherry coals, plus fresh seafood and craft cocktails — with Friday night jazz and sunset views that make it worth the trip.
Backwater Fins
Crystal RiverWaterfront restaurant at the end of Ozello Trail serving fresh seafood and cold drinks with stunning Gulf views.
Beacon Hill & Lake Harris Trail
LeesburgThe paved Lake Harris Trail connects Venetian Gardens to points north, running along the lakeshore with wide-open water views. The Beacon Hill neighborhood section features canopy oaks and some of Leesburg's oldest homes. At nearly 5 miles one-way, the trail is ideal for cycling or a longer walk. Sunsets over Lake Harris from the trail are consistently stunning.
Brooksville Country Club
Crystal RiverGolf club and restaurant in Brooksville offering dining with views of the course. A relaxed setting for a post-round meal or casual evening dinner.
Chassahowitzka Wildlife Management Area
Crystal RiverSet on 24,243 acres, this scenic area boasts hiking trails, kayaking, a gun range & wildlife views.
Chelsea Coffee Company
OcalaPopular coffee shop on the Silver Springs corridor with 4.5 stars and hundreds of reviews. A well-established Ocala coffee spot.
Cherry Lake Park
ClermontLakeside park in Clermont with a playground, picnic pavilions, walking trails, and a fishing pier. A family-friendly green space with pretty lake views.
Citrus On the Lake Boutique Hotel / Citrus Sky Bar Tavares
TavaresCasual hotel offering unassuming quarters, many with lake views, plus an outdoor pool & dining.
Citrus Tower
ClermontBuilt in 1956 and standing 226 feet tall, the Citrus Tower offers panoramic views of the rolling hills and hundreds of spring-fed lakes across eight counties. A classic piece of Old Florida roadside Americana that's still delivering the goods.
Crump's Landing
Crystal RiverLakefront restaurant and bar on the Harris Chain of Lakes serving seafood, burgers, and cold drinks with water views. Boat-up access and a laid-back Old Florida atmosphere.
Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge
Crystal RiverAn undeveloped winter haven for endangered manatees, with a picnic area, bay views & a gift shop.
Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge & Visitor Center
Crystal RiverAn undeveloped winter haven for endangered manatees, with a picnic area, bay views & a gift shop.
District Bar and Kitchen
OcalaOcala's 2025 Restaurant of the Year — a 6,700-square-foot two-story downtown venue with Detroit-style pizza, a locally-sourced brisket burger blend, craft cocktails, live music, and the best rooftop views in the 352.
Eaton's Beach Sandbar & Grill
The VillagesWaterfront dining on Lake Weir featuring Chef Dave Del Rio's Florisiana cuisine — a fusion of Southern, Cajun, and Creole flavors. The views are stunning, the seafood is fresh, and the vibe has been drawing folks out here since 1924.
Elevation 89
OcalaUnique dining experience at the Ocala Airport with gorgeous runway views and spectacular sunsets. Named for the airport's 89-foot elevation. American cuisine in a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
Elizabeth Evans Park
Mount DoraSmall waterfront park on Lake Dora in downtown Mount Dora with benches and lake views. A quiet spot for a quick break or photo opportunity while exploring the shops.
Evans Prairie - Country Club Restaurant
The VillagesCountry club dining at Evans Prairie in The Villages, offering a relaxed meal with golf course views. Open to residents and their guests for lunch and dinner.
Fish Camp on Lake Eustis
LeesburgWaterfront farm-to-table dining on Lake Eustis with a menu built around local craft beers and Central Florida cuisine. The blackened grouper Reuben and hand-dipped coconut shrimp are signature dishes. The lake views don't hurt either.
Fishing Pier
LeesburgPublic fishing pier on the waterfront in Leesburg, part of the Venetian Gardens park system, providing bank fishing and scenic lake views.
Florida Citrus Tower
ClermontIconic 226-foot observation tower built in 1956 to overlook miles of orange groves. The 360-degree deck offers views across eight counties, and the base houses a cafe, museum, and event space. Recently renovated and reopened in 2023.
Gilbert Park
Mount DoraLakefront park on Lake Dora with a boat launch, fishing pier, and scenic views. A peaceful spot to watch the sunset or launch a kayak for a paddle on the lake.
Glenview Country Club
The VillagesCountry club restaurant in The Villages offering dining with views of the manicured greens. A comfortable spot for a post-round meal or casual dinner.
Golfview Lake Park
The VillagesSmall neighborhood park in The Villages near Lady Lake with lake views, walking paths, and benches. A peaceful spot for a quiet morning walk.
Grantham Pointe (Light House)
Mount DoraHome of Mount Dora's iconic inland lighthouse on Lake Dora — one of the few freshwater lighthouses in the state. A picturesque waterfront walk with stunning views and a must-see photo spot.