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
Brady Richardson,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Tavares, FL sell after 87 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Tavares, FL over the last 12 months is $350,000, up 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
One-of-a-Kind Opportunity in Beautiful Lake Frances Estates!Welcome to Lake Frances Estates, one of Central Florida’s most sought-after 55+ communities, where you own the land and enjoy a warm, active, and welcoming lifestyle.This exceptional 2-bedroom, 2-bath home is truly one of a kind and offers features rarely found in the community. Thoughtfully updated with beautiful granite
Welcome to 1561 Apache Circle in Tavares, located in the highly desirable Lake Frances Estates, an active 55+ community where you own the land—no lot rent.This well-maintained 2-bedroom, 2-bath home shows true pride of ownership with thoughtful upgrades throughout, including premium new flooring, modern double-pane windows, and a custom front door that creates a welcoming first
Virtually Staged. Move-in ready, highly versatile and unique 3-Bedroom Sarah floorplan is designed to meet a variety of needs. The split Car Garages provide plenty of room for storage and hobbies, offering ample space for tools, equipment, and more. The spacious Island Kitchen is perfect for both chefs and entertainers, featuring expansive countertops, a large walk-in pantry, and plenty of prep
Welcome to this beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 2-bath home located in the highly sought-after Lake Frances Estates, a vibrant 55+ community where you own the land and enjoy an active Florida lifestyle.Step inside to discover a bright and inviting floor plan featuring a spacious living room and dining area, perfect for entertaining family and friends. The updated kitchen offers newer
One-of-a-Kind Opportunity in Beautiful Lake Frances Estates!Welcome to Lake Frances Estates, one of Central Florida’s most sought-after 55+ communities, where you own the land and enjoy a warm, active, and welcoming lifestyle.This exceptional 2-bedroom, 2-bath home is truly one of a kind and offers features rarely found in the community. Thoughtfully updated with beautiful granite
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Custom-built brick estate on 1.2 wooded acres with two fireplaces, major recent updates, and the privacy you've been searching for—just minutes from historic Mount Dora.Nestled beneath a canopy of majestic oak trees on a private lot, this home offers the perfect blend of timeless craftsmanship, generous living space, and peaceful surroundings. With 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and 3,744 square
As the morning sun filters through the windows, you pour a cup of coffee and settle into the bright Florida room, where birdsong and gentle breezes welcome the day. Later, a short golf cart ride takes you to downtown Tavares for lunch by the lake, boutique shopping, or a breathtaking sunset over the water. Returning home, you enjoy the comfort of an updated kitchen, spacious living areas, and the
Virtually Staged. Buyer's financing fell through! Now's your chance to take advantage of all this home has to offer: 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
Save Big! The sellers are contributing a $5,000 credit toward your closing costs, or you can apply it to buy down your interest rate. An additional 1% lender credit is available when financing through the seller's preferred lender. Ask for details.Squirrel Point's community ramp puts you on Lake Dora and the 75,000-acre Harris Chain of Lakes, one of Central Florida's great playgrounds for
FANTASTIC NEW PRICE — A FRESH OPPORTUNITY IN TAVARES! If space, flexibility, a large backyard and NO HOA are on your wish list, 1805 Virginia Court deserves another look!Tucked away on a cul-de-sac in the established Vista Del Largo community, this spacious 2-bedroom, 2-bath home offers more than 1,800 square feet of living space, generous room sizes and a floor plan with possibilities.
Welcome to one of the newest homes available in the highly desirable Lake Frances Estates, a vibrant 55+ community where you own the land—NO LOT RENT!This meticulously maintained 2-bedroom, 2-bath residence offers comfortable Florida living with a spacious front sunroom that serves as the perfect dining or relaxation area. The updated kitchen features a cozy breakfast nook, creating an
Short Sale. Right in the heart of Tavares, 1556 Wynford Cir keeps everyday conveniences close, with Publix at Tavares Crossroads, Far Reach Ranch U-Pick Farm, Venture International Academy, shopping, restaurants, and major roads all within easy reach. This new listing pairs a friendly address with a bright, move-in ready home built for relaxed Florida living.Step inside to 1,616 square
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
Start your mornings on the screened lanai overlooking the tranquil waters of Lake Eustis, where breathtaking sunrises set the tone for the day. This beautifully updated home features fresh interior paint, new bedroom carpeting, luxury vinyl plank flooring in the living areas, a 2024 rubber roof-over, copper plumbing, and a 2020 HVAC system for peace of mind. The spacious primary suite offers a
Studio apartment 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, WiFi, water, sewer, and trash. Plenty of parking! On site laundry facility with coin machines and Amazon Locker! Renter's insurance required
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
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
Learn more about our current specials! Welcome home to The Club at Eustis, a premier residential community offering spacious apartments for rent in Eustis, Florida. Ideally situated near scenic Lake Eustis, historic downtown shopping, local dining, and major roadways like US-441, our neighborhood offers the perfect blend of small-town
NOW OPEN - Lake Tavares is an exciting brand new gated residential rental apartment 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 recreational
Property Id: 94282 This is a duplex style 2-story house, upstairs, for a single person only. Non-smokers, no pets. This second floor unit is located a few minutes walk from the waterfront area and downtown Tavares, a 5 minute drive to the Florida Hospital Waterman. Water and trash are included in the rent.
Now offering 18-month leases. Sign today and lock in today’s low rate for the next 18 months! Offer valid for new applicants who sign an 18-month lease and move-in by September 18, 2026. Base rent will remain at the 12-month lease rate for the duration of the 18-month term. Offer is contingent on application approval and execution of a lease agreement. Other terms and conditions may apply. Live
Live in this recently-constructed property located in the Lake Landing community.?This property is professionally managed by AMH, a leading single-family rental company. We expect to make this property available for showings soon. We work to simplify your rental experience by offering self-guided tours and a streamlined leasing process you can complete all online, all on your own
This home is move-in ready. Schedule your tour now or start your application today.Welcome to 2038 Appalachee Cir in Tavares, FL, a 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offering 1,685 sq. ft. and an inviting single-level layout. A covered front entry, brick-paver walkway, landscaped beds, and classic columns create a welcoming first impression, while the attached 2-car garage adds everyday
Please note, our homes are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and are not reserved until the holding fee agreement is signed and the holding fee is paid by the primary applicant. This home is priced to rent and won't be around for long. Apply now, while we make this home ready for you, or call to arrange a meeting with your local Progress Residential leasing specialist today.
Now offering 18-month leases. Sign today and lock in today’s low rate for the next 18 months! Offer valid for new applicants who sign an 18-month lease and move-in by September 18, 2026. Base rent will remain at the 12-month lease rate for the duration of the 18-month term. Offer is contingent on application approval and execution of a lease agreement. Other terms and conditions may apply. This
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