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
Christine Johnson,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Tavares, FL sell after 79 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Tavares, FL over the last 12 months is $350,000, up 10% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Virtually Staged. Welcome to the Bradley floor plan at Seaport Village. This thoughtfully designed 1,625-square-foot, single-story home offers 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a spacious open-concept layout perfect for modern living and entertaining. The heart of the home features a stylish kitchen overlooking the living and dining areas, complete with quartz countertops, upgraded 42” Maple
Virtually Staged. Welcome to this Beautiful 4 Bedroom 3 Bath custom-built brick estate set on 1.2 acres of lush, mature landscaping. Surrounded by grand oak trees and natural beauty, this exceptional property offers a rare sense of privacy and tranquility while remaining conveniently located close to Mount Dora! From the moment you arrive, a circular driveway, manicured hedges, and an inviting
Don't miss 2440 Bracknell Forest Trl, a residence featuring recent updates with fresh interior paint and partial flooring replacement. The primary bedroom includes a spacious walk in closet. An inviting covered patio overlooks the fenced in backyard, creating a pleasant exterior. Ready for immediate enjoyment, this home blends updates and practicality. Included 100-Day Home Warranty with buyer
Virtually Staged. ***JUST REDUCED - - - UPDATED WITH BRAND NEW DISHWASHER, MICROWAVE & RANGE WITH WARRANTIES --- ***NEWLY PAINTED INTERIOR**** ----BRAND NEW CARPETING INSTALLED IN BEDROOMS--- ***BRAND NEW LIGHTING INSTALLED*** ---UPDATED ROOF---- Welcome to this SPACIOUS, WELL-MAINTAINED home located in the HIGHLY DESIRABLE Royal Harbor community - a LAKESIDE LIVING COMMUNITY! Featuring a a
Low lot rent of $629 and includes w/s/t! This well maintained home is a single wide but has a nice addition that gives it a spacious feeling at a budget friendly price! You enter the home right from the large carport through the shed, which acts like a mudroom/laundry area. The eat in kitchen features nice wood cabinetry and is adjacent to the Florida room for morning coffee. You have a nice size
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
Now's your chance to start living your Florida dream of blue skies and sunshine at a budget-friendly price! This nicely updated home is in the Tiki Village community, situated right on the Dora Canal and leading to the famous Harris Chain of Lakes! You can walk to your boat and go right out to the chain! The home has been updated with vinyl plank flooring throughout; the hall bathroom features a
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
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. This Single family Ranch style home in Tavares, Florida, set on a generous quarter-acre lot and surrounded by natural beauty is ready for a new owner. 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
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 entryway with a friendly front
Discover the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and Florida charm in this beautifully maintained 2-bedroom, 2-bath home located in a desirable 55+ community in Tavares, Florida! Enjoy the rare benefit of land ownership, along with an incredibly low HOA fee of only $52 monthly, for affordable living without sacrificing your lifestyle. Step inside to find a spacious and inviting layout designed
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
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
No expense was spared in this beautifully updated, one-of-a-kind Tavares condo! Perfect as a private retreat or full-time residence, this turn-key opportunity features matching high-end furnishings that are completely negotiable. Enjoy the swimming pool and ultimate Florida lifestyle, located just a 1-mile golf cart ride from downtown Tavares, "America's Seaplane City." Experience vibrant
Embrace an elevated lifestyle specifically designed with entertainment and recreation in mind on the shores of Lake Dora, part of the renowned Harris Chain of Lakes. Explore this unique property featuring a 3-bedroom, 2-bath home outfitted with a spacious recreation room, private boathouse, detached garage workshop, and personal cantina. Located just minutes from both downtown Mount Dora and
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! Elevate your expectations in Eustis, Florida! The Club at Eustis, situated near Lake Eustis and US-441/W Burleigh Boulevard and SR-19/N Bay Street, offers convenient access to the scenic walking paths of the historic Lake County district. With a sparse suburban atmosphere and the charm of
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
Apply now or schedule your self-tour today and take the first step toward getting more than just a place to live. Rent with FirstKey Homes for a home that's right for you, plus professional service and maintenance, innovative resident programs, and more; that's the power of purple!This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom rental home in Tavares, FL, has a lot to offer; does it check all your boxes?
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.Coming soon! This home is currently being enjoyed by another resident but will be available soon. Please respect their privacy and do not disturb. You can complete the application process and reserve
This property is available. Please inquire on this site to schedule a showing. Welcome to your new home at 1105 Fig Street in Tavares, FL! This charming residence offers a modern and inviting atmosphere with an open-concept layout that seamlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen areas. The kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring sleek granite countertops, stainless steel appliances,
Now offering 22-month leases. Sign today and lock in today’s low rate for the next 22 months! Offer valid for new applicants who sign a 22-month lease by June 30th, 2026. Base rent will remain at the 12-month lease rate for the duration of the 22-month term. Offer is contingent on application approval and execution of a lease agreement. Other terms and conditions may apply. Be the first to live
Now offering 22-month leases. Sign today and lock in today’s low rate for the next 22 months! Offer valid for new applicants who sign a 22-month lease by June 30th, 2026. Base rent will remain at the 12-month lease rate for the duration of the 22-month term. Offer is contingent on application approval and execution of a lease agreement. Other terms and conditions may apply. This property is
Now offering 22-month leases. Sign today and lock in today’s low rate for the next 22 months! Offer valid for new applicants who sign a 22-month lease by June 30th, 2026. Base rent will remain at the 12-month lease rate for the duration of the 22-month term. Offer is contingent on application approval and execution of a lease agreement. Other terms and conditions may apply. Live in this
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