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
William Maltbie,
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 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Tavares, FL over the last 12 months is $350,500, up 11% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome Home to One of Lake Frances’ Rare Opportunities! Homes like this rarely come available in the highly sought-after Lake Frances community—don’t miss your chance to own this beautifully updated, move-in-ready 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence, offered fully furnished for ultimate convenience. From the moment you step inside, you’ll appreciate the blend of style and comfort, featuring Pergo
"Looking for a 55+ community with low HOA fees and land ownership? Check out this gem in Lake Frances Estates, a top-rated community in Lake County! This 2-bed, 1.5-bath home features front and back porches, a fenced yard perfect for pets. Added features: Complete re-piped, new flooring throughout 2025, HVAC replaced 2018, Roof replaced 2017, Water heater 2014, undated electric panel, newly
Seller offering contribution towards closing costs! Watch breathtaking sunsets from this stunning almost new home at Cresswind Lake Harris - an active 55+ community. It will have an exciting Clubhouse and even boat slips so you can enjoy the Lake Harris Chain of Lakes! Highlights include a prime lot with relaxing Lake Harris views and privacy with green space behind the home, Gourmet Kitchen and
TURNKEY • PRIVATE BACKYARD • BEAUTIFUL HARDWOOD FLOORS Welcome to this move-in ready 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath home located in the highly desirable 55+ community of Lake Frances Estates in Tavares. This well-maintained residence features stunning engineered hardwood floors throughout and an updated kitchen with newer appliances, including a convection oven. The home is tastefully finished in modern
Welcome Home to One of Lake Frances’ Rare Opportunities! Homes like this rarely come available in the highly sought-after Lake Frances community—don’t miss your chance to own this beautifully updated, move-in-ready 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence, offered fully furnished for ultimate convenience. From the moment you step inside, you’ll appreciate the blend of style and comfort, featuring Pergo
COME VIEW THIS WELL MAINTAINED 2 BEDROOM 2 BATH HOME LOCATED IN A WATERFRONT COMMUNITY ON LAKE EUSTIS. THIS 2 BEDROOM 2 BATH HOME FEATURES MANY EXTRAS. THIS HOME HAS A TOTAL OF 1684 SQ FT OF LIVING SPACE UNDER HEAT AND AIR WITH 2 BONUS ROOMS. YOU MUST SEE THIS HOME. MANY UPGRADES. LARGE BEDROOMS. THIS IS A TURNKEY HOME . ALL YOU NEED IS YOUR CLOTHES AND TOOTHBRUSH. YOU MUST SEE THIS HOME TO
Welcome to this inviting single-family Ranch style home in Tavares, Florida, set on a generous quarter-acre lot and surrounded by natural beauty. Offering three bedrooms and two bathrooms, this home delivers comfortable living with plenty of square footage and a thoughtful, open layout. Inside, you’ll find coffered ceilings that add character and height, along with tile flooring throughout and no
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. ***NEW CARPET, FRESH INTERIOR PAINT THROUGHOUT, NEW CEILING FANS, WATER HEATER IN LATE 2024*** Welcome to this spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath villa located in the desirable Golden Palms Villas community of Tavares! Offering 1,282 square feet of comfortable living space, this partially updated home is filled with natural light and features a welcoming
Welcome to 2505 Glacier Express Lane — a beautifully maintained, modern single-family home that perfectly blends everyday functionality with elevated living. This inviting residence offers 4 spacious bedrooms and 2 full baths in approximately 1,498 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space.Step inside to discover an open-concept floorplan drenched in natural light, where comfortable
Discover comfort, convenience, and true Florida living in this beautifully designed Ammolite floor plan by Richmond American Homes. Situated in a community that offers serene lake views, peaceful walking paths, and walking-distance access to a public boat ramp on Lake Harris, this home combines natural beauty with everyday practicality. You’re also just minutes from shopping, dining, and major
"Looking for a 55+ community with low HOA fees and land ownership? Check out this gem in Lake Frances Estates, a top-rated community in Lake County! This 2-bed, 1.5-bath home features front and back porches, a fenced yard perfect for pets. Added features: Complete re-piped, new flooring throughout 2025, HVAC replaced 2018, Roof replaced 2017, Water heater 2014, undated electric panel, newly
"Charming 55+ Community Home for Sale! This 3-bedroom BLOCK Home, 2-bathroom retreat boasts a brand-new AC system and modern appliances, ensuring a comfortable living experience. The seller, relocating to Kentucky for family support due to health concerns, has meticulously maintained this property. The open-concept kitchen, dining, and living area flows seamlessly, and the convenience of inside
The seller spared no expense updating this one-of-a-kind condo in Tavares, Florida, and the matching furnishings are negotiable, making it a perfect turnkey opportunity. Ideal as a private retreat for a single buyer or couple, this beautifully updated condo is located just one mile by golf cart from the vibrant downtown Tavares entertainment district, known as America’s Seaplane City. Enjoy
Mid-Century Modern Lakefront Living in TavaresWelcome to your opportunity to own a beautifully updated lakefront home in the heart of Tavares, America’s Seaplane City.This 4-bedroom, 2-bath home offers nearly 2,500 sq. ft. of thoughtfully renovated living space. Completely updated in 2020, the home features an open-concept layout with oversized bay windows that capture stunning lake views
Seller offering contribution towards closing costs! Watch breathtaking sunsets from this stunning almost new home at Cresswind Lake Harris - an active 55+ community. It will have an exciting Clubhouse and even boat slips so you can enjoy the Lake Harris Chain of Lakes! Highlights include a prime lot with relaxing Lake Harris views and privacy with green space behind the home, Gourmet Kitchen and
Studio apartment located between Mount Dora and Tavares just south of Eustis Tavadora has New Owners studio apartments conveniently located just outside of downtown Tavares and minutes away from restaurants, grocery stores and shopping! Neat and Clean! $200/month Resident Utilities Package includes electricity, basic cable and Wi-Fi, water, sewer, and trash! Plenty of parking! On site laundry
Nestled off of US-441, Atwater Apartments is a luxury two-story upscale community located in the heart of Tavares, adjacent to Advent Health Waterman Hospital, Pinecrest Academy Tavares, Aesop Park, and Lake Eustis and close proximity to Downtown Lakefront Tavares and Golden Triangle YMCA. Take in all of what Tavares has to offer from its charming downtown to its waterfront entertainment
Welcome to 615 Juniper Way in the heart of Tavares—“America’s Seaplane City.” This well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers the perfect blend of comfort and functionality. Step inside to a bright and open floor plan with spacious living and dining areas, ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. The kitchen provides ample cabinet and counter space and flows seamlessly into the
NOW OPEN - Lake Tavares Townhomes is an exciting brand new gated residential rental townhome community nestled in the heart of Tavares/Lake County offering maintenance free living, residents will enjoy close proximity to downtown lake front Tavares, Golden Triangle YMCA, Lake Dora, Advent Health Waterman, Fred Stover Park Sports Complex, Aesops Park, Wooton Park, local shops, dining, and
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Beautiful Like-new single-story home in Avalon Park featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and 1,649 sq ft of living space.Spacious Open-concept floorplan with a spacious kitchen overlooking the great room and dining area, plus access to a covered lanai. Upgrades include custom blinds and a smart home technology package. Location is everything, located
Brand-new pet-friendly townhome for rent in Avalon Park Tavares by Stanley Martin! This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath Rosalia floorplan features open-concept living, modern finishes, a 1-car garage, and energy-efficient design. Enjoy a vibrant live-work-play community with parks, trails, lakes, and future shopping and dining at Market Street. Conveniently located near downtown Tavares, Mount Dora, Eustis,
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Step into comfort and style with this beautiful spacious 3 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom home! Featuring a brand new roof and fresh exterior paint, this property offers great curb appeal from the moment you arrive. Inside, you’ll find brand new interior paint that gives the home a clean, modern feel throughout. Enjoy cooking and entertaining in a bright, open layout with a spacious floor plan and a brand
Reduced deposit: Get 50% off your security deposit based on 1 month's rent (taxes and fees not included), valid for new applicants who sign a 12-month lease by May 31, 2026. Offer is contingent on application approval and execution of a lease agreement. Other terms and conditions may apply. Live in this recently-constructed property located in the Lake Landing community.This property is
Completely turnkey, just bring your toothbrush! Lakefront 2BR/2BA condo on Lake Eustis in a rare direct waterfront building (not canal). Enjoy sunrise coffee and stunning sunsets from your private patio, with easy access to the community dock and gazebo. Open floor plan with lake views from living areas and primary suite; guest room overlooks a private courtyard. Updated throughout with newer
Reduced deposit: Get 50% off your security deposit based on 1 month's rent (taxes and fees not included), valid for new applicants who sign a 12-month lease by May 31, 2026. Offer is contingent on application approval and execution of a lease agreement. Other terms and conditions may apply. Live in this recently-constructed property located in the Lake Landing community.This property is
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