Every year thousands of seaplanes splash land in Tavares, which proclaims itself America’s Seaplane City. Seaplane takeoffs and landings are common sites in the community tucked between three lakes 40 miles northwest of Orlando. But pilots aren’t the only ones who call the city of 20,000 people home. In fact, the city appeals to a wide range of residents, says Arrow Realty & Investments Realtor Rena MacPhee, who grew up in Tavares. The small city’s offerings vary from lively bars downtown to 55-plus communities on the edges of town.
The Tavares welcome sign recognizes its status as a seaplane destination.
Thousands of seaplanes land in Tavares every year.
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Nightlife scene includes submarine bar
MacPhee says Tavares hosts one of the best nightlife scenes in Lake County. Near Main Street, The Argonaut mixes craft cocktails in a lounge designed to look like a submarine. Patrons play cornhole on the lawn at The Dog House, a sports bar that’s open until 1 a.m. on the weekends. Locals may also chill with their dogs on the patio of Puddle Jumpers Lakeside Restaurant, catching sites of seaplanes landing in Lake Dora. “Tavares probably has the most restaurants in Lake County that are pet friendly,” MacPhee says. Residents head north of downtown to do shopping at Village Market Place of Tavares, a shopping center with a Winn-Dixie and Dollar General. AdventHealth Waterman provides emergency care and other medical services on the northeast side of the city.
The Mixologist at the Argonaut Bar and Lounge gives the patrons a show in Tavares.
Bands from all around come to play at The Dog House in Tavares.
A couple dances to the live music at one of the many restaurant bars in Tavares.
Come and eat out on the patio at Puddle Jumpers Lakeside Restaurant in Tavares.
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Seaplane-themed play area at Wooton Park
The city’s dozen parks and recreation centers include Wooton Park, where kids run through a seaplane-themed splash park in view of where the aircraft take off and land. Boaters put their vessels in Lake Dora at West Wooton Park Boat Ramp nearby. Boats and seaplanes park at the marinas that extend from the shore into the lake. Residents can wait out Florida’s frequent rain showers inside Woodlea Sports Complex, where boarders and skaters glide along the concrete terrain.
Families love to take their kids on hot days to the Splash Pad in Wooten Park in Tavares.
Boating is a popular past time in Tavares on Lake Dora.
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Kayakers and parachuters head to Lake Dora
Community events often make use of the town’s waterfront. During April’s Kayakathon, adults, kids and even dogs hop into kayaks and paddle nearly 4 miles through Lake Dora and Lake Eustis, stopping along the way for food and drink. In the summer, locals gather at Wooton Park to watch dozens of members of Phantom Airborne, a veterans group, leap out of a World War II-era aircraft and parachute into Lake Dora.
Tavares hosts beach volleyball tournaments on the weekends.
The Dora Queen paddle boat docks in Tavares.
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Midlevel homes prices for Lake County
Tavares is predominantly a city of homeowners. House styles include manufactured homes, ranch-style houses that sometimes come with backyard pools and lakeside Mediterranean estates. A few subdivisions are restricted to seniors. Condo complexes are scattered around town for those who need less space. Prices for two-bedroom mobile homes start at $55,000, while two-bedroom condo prices begin around $90,000. A five-bedroom waterfront house can cost as much as $2 million. However, the median price is around $275,000. Tavares isn’t the cheapest real estate market in Lake County, but prices tend to be lower than in the nearby communities of Mount Dora and Howey-in-the-Hills, MacPhee says. “Tavares is right in the middle of Lake County in terms of pricing.” Some residential areas along Lake Dora are in federally designated flood zones, so homebuyers may need to purchase flood insurance.
Some of the homes on the waterfront in Tavares have spacious floor plans.
A row of modern ranch style homes with attached garages sit in Lake Frances Estates, a 55+ community.
A row of mobile homes sit at Lake Point 55 Plus Mobile Homes in Vista del Largo, Tavares.
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Tavares High School operates business program
Children attending Lake County Schools are zoned to Tavares Elementary School and Tavares Middle School, both graded B-minus by Niche. Students can progress to Tavares High School, a B-rated school that participates in the national INCubatoredu program. Teens in this program learn business skills by developing products and services with real-world applications. Kids can get a private education at Liberty Christian Preparatory School, a B-rated school in Tavares for kindergarteners through 12th graders.
Built in 1926, Tavares High School is one of seven public high schools in Lake County.
Tavares Middle School was built in 1991 and hosts 975 students in grades 6-8.
Tavares Elementary School has 800 students in grades PK-5.
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A long drive to Orlando, airport
Most residents have cars and use them to drive to work. The commute to and from Orlando can take more than an hour during rush hour. Locals also zip between downtown Tavares businesses on golf carts, which are legal on city streets. Those who want to catch a flight on something other than a seaplane must drive 50 miles to Orlando International Airport.
The Florida city of Tavares borders three lakes.
Tavares locals have acess to Orlando on Highway 441.
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Written By
Sara Huffman
Photography Contributed By
Stephen Flint
Video By
Michael Voyack
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Nancy McCloskey,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Tavares, FL sell after 80 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Tavares, FL over the last 12 months is $350,000, up 11% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. *** Priced under appraised value *** This beautiful home boasts 1.6 acres in gated, waterfront community. Bring your boat and access the full Harris Chain of Lakes from the private community boat ramp. Store your boat / RV on your lot. Cruise to brunch, events, dinner at Historic Mt Dora, City of Tavares, Eustis, Leesburg. So may waterfront dining
2023 contemporary custom home on over 2.7-acres - waterfront / equestrian zoned property, situated in the gated community of Hidden River Lakes. Build a dock on the 140ft of waterfront and cruise through the Harris Chain of Lakes. Chill in the extensive screened lanai and revel in the privacy, views and vast array of wildlife that calls the Hidden River Lakes community home. The home boasts 3
Looking for your dream home in Tavares, Florida?Well, look no further — this is the one for you! Nestled in the picturesque area of Lake County, where sparkling lakes and scenic parks blend beautifully with small-town charm, this stunning home truly has it all. This magnificent 2,763-square-foot residence features 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and a 2-car garage, all set on a lovely lot with a
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Welcome to MOVE IN READY with MOTIVATED SELLERS featuring NEW FLOORING, NEW LANDSCAPING and PRICED TO SELL. REINTRODUCING 3047 Tansy Street, with a welcoming open floor plan, featuring a 3/2 split bedroom design with a study option. Centered around the stainless steel kitchen, this home features 42-inch cabinets and island overlooking the family
"Escape to paradise in this charming 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom haven in a 55+ community in Tavares, Florida! With land ownership and a low HOA fee of just $50/month, you'll enjoy the freedom to live life on your terms. Take a look at this new Stone countertop. The Florida room is a versatile space perfect for a home office or family room, even a craft room. The kitchen is designed for ease and
Turnkey Waterfront Living — Including a 2001 Sylvan Pontoon Boat.This exceptional 2-bedroom, 2-bath canal-front residence offers direct access to the Harris Chain of Lakes and includes a 2001 Sylvan pontoon boat, refurbished in 2023 with new flooring, new upholstery, and a newer motor with under 100 hours—making this a truly turnkey waterfront opportunity. Located in the highly sought-after
Spacious 3 bedroom Townhome on a corner lot - Don't miss out! This open and airy 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom townhome with 2 car garage is ideally situated on a desirable corner lot. The kitchen features ample cabinet space, solid countertops, a breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, and a walk-in pantry- perfect for home chefs. The open-concept dining and living area offers plenty of space for
$500 off first month's rent! Tavadora studio apartment conveniently located just outside of downtown Tavares and minutes away from restaurants, grocery stores and shopping! End unit offers a lovely deck to sit and enjoy the pretty lakeview across the street plus your own reserved parking space just outside your door! Luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout, remodeled kitchen and bathroom. Neat and
Move in Special! $500 off first month's rent! Studio apartment conveniently located just outside of downtown Tavares and minutes away from restaurants, grocery stores and shopping! Luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout, remodeled kitchen and bathroom. Neat and Clean! $200/month Resident Utilities Package includes electricity, basic cable, WiFi, water, sewer, and trash. Plenty of parking! On site
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