Mount Dora, Historic downtown district in Mount Dora, Florida, US
Mount Dora is a small town in Lake County, Florida, sitting on a gentle rise above Lake Dora and known for its historic New England style buildings. The downtown consists of several blocks lined with antique shops, galleries, and a small freshwater lighthouse standing at the lake shore.
David Simpson built his family home here in 1874, laying the foundation for what would become a permanent settlement. Ross C. Tremain established the first post office in 1880, helping the community gain official recognition.
The town honors Dora Ann Drawdy, an early settler whose presence inspired the founders to name this place. Visitors today see residents strolling through shaded lakeside parks or sipping coffee in main street cafés, while art galleries and bookshops line the walkways.
Visitors exploring downtown can use free shuttles that run between parking areas and main streets during festivals and larger events. Most shops and galleries sit within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore the area on foot.
The Alexander House, a two-story building from 1883, has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1975. Its wooden façade and porch still show the original construction methods from the early settler days.
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