Your future home in Mount Dora, Florida
As if someone had gathered all the best that Florida has to offer, and put it in a small suburb of Orlando: that’s Mount Dora. No wonder so many choose to move there every year: Mount Dora is rich in culture and offers a vibrant and active social life, and although it’s within easy reach, Orlando is far enough away that the hustle and bustle of the city doesn’t affect this peaceful community.
Back in the days
At the time of its establishment in 1874, David Simpson, his wife, and two children settled the area. The town gained its title as the first postmaster in 1880 when Ross C. Tremain soon became a major real estate developer for the area.
In 1846, surveyors named Lake Dora after the early settler Dora Ann Drawdy, which eventually became the name-giver of the town. Although a real mountain was lacking from the area, yet with a humorous twist, the locals called their town Mount Dora, since it sits on a small plateau above sea level.
The railroad reached Mount Dora in 1887. Many developments emerged, such as an orange packing house, fertilizer plants, and a cannery, while the small town also became a popular winter retreat for hunters and fishermen. Mount Dora had begun to develop significantly since the turn of the century. The town invested in infrastructure and opened two public parks, thanks to money raised by locals. Today, Mount Dora belongs to the Orlando suburban area and is home to more than 14,000 people.
Life in Mount Dora
Hot summers, warm springs and autumns, and colder, but not chilly winters await those who decide to move to this wonderful neighborhood. Florida has always been a paradise for those looking to finally settle down and enjoy life.
This welcoming community is located 35 miles northwest of the heart of Orlando, while it is still within reach, the “City Beautiful” is far enough away to live life as slowly as you’d like. And there’s no better place to enjoy the peace and quiet than in the recreational parks: from the unique Donnelly Park to Mount Dora Trails, there are plenty of places to get close to nature.
Although you don’t usually seek the hustle and bustle of the big city here, there are countless exciting entertainment and sporting opportunities. Admiring the sunset aboard a paddlewheel boat and participating in water sports are activities that are often offered in the city. The surrounding region is home to over 130 miles of navigable waterways known as the Blueways. However, if you are more of a “land person”, you will find golf courses, tennis courts, and many routes and trails for hiking.
A small-town atmosphere like Mount Dora appeals mostly to antique lovers from all over the state, the country, and even the world, but the town is best known for its festival season that takes place throughout the year. From the Arts Festival in February, which showcases Florida talent in many different art forms, and to the Blueberry Festival in April, to Seafood Festival in September, there is always a great event going on somewhere in town to lift the spirits.
If you are looking for a quieter, but definitely lively neighborhood, Mount Dora is a good choice to consider. The proximity to Orlando, the surrounding natural wonders, and the fantastic opportunities to live a life full of social and sporting activities make this city a little paradise.
Do you still want to know more about Mount Dora? Check out our post, Moving to Mount Dora: The Ultimate Guide
