Known for its quirky antique shops and annual festivals, Mount Dora is Central Florida’s premier destination for art, culture, and history. While the city retains its small-town vibes, it has grown over time to become one of the area’s most popular destinations, drawing in thousands each year for major annual events.
Legend says that the beautiful lake in which Mount Dora was built was named after a homesteader named Ms. Dora Ann Drawdy who befriended federal surveyors who named the growing town after her. The city would later become a popular winter retreat for fishermen, hunters, and boaters. By the early 1920s, a boom in residential and commercial development would transform Mount Dora from a country town to a city.
Today, Mount Dora is home to over 13,000 people and still features much of the historic architecture of its past. The area is known for its large canopy of oak trees and variety of specialty shops. Eight major events draw in crowds each year, including the much-beloved annual Christmas lighting festival.
Mount Dora is a relaxing, laid-back city located just one hour from Orlando, allowing residents to live a quiet life while remaining near the area’s best theme parks and attractions. With all that Mount Dora has to offer, it’s no surprise that so many people want to relocate to this charming city.
LIVING
Mount Dora is home to many gorgeous properties, including turn-of-the-century homes, such as the Donnelly House. Many of the houses built during this era feature two stories with classic wrap porches. The 1920s brought Spanish-style architecture to the area, as well as many brick homes. These homes often have a circular floor plan designed for mingling. Other styles of homes you’ll find in Mount Dora include contemporary houses with attached garages, sleek mid-century modern homes, and new construction that are personalized with sought-after designer kitchens, wood floors, and natural lighting.
WORKING
The cost of living in Mount Dora is lower than the national average, along with lower utility expenses. There are plenty of jobs to go around, especially if you’re willing to make the commute to nearby cities, such as Apopka, Forest City, Winter Garden, or Orlando. For those who prefer to stay closer to home, remote work may also be possible, especially for professionals who possess unique skills or higher education.
DINING
The restaurants in Mount Dora are charming and offer a variety of delicious eats. At Las Palmas Cuban Restaurant, you’ll find traditional Cuban food served in a laid-back atmosphere. PizzAmore is a terrific pizza place, offering mouthwatering pies, pasta, baked subs, and even gluten-free pizzas. Other places you’ll want to try after relocating include Wave Asian Bistro & Sushi, Bavarian House, and Cody’s at 4th.
WEEKEND EXPLORING
With so many things to do in Mount Dora, you’ll spend every weekend discovering new and fascinating events and attractions. Grantham Point Park is one of the area’s premier attractions and is home to the Mount Dora Lighthouse. Each year, the city hosts the Mount Dora Springs Festival of Arts and Crafts, an open-air event that celebrates arts, crafts, antiques, food, and much more. Other things to do in Mount Dora include visiting Renningers, a combination antique mall, flea park, and farmer’s market.
FORT LAUDERDALE FL 33308