Tavares, County seat in Lake County, Florida.
Tavares is the county seat of Lake County, Florida, positioned between Lake Eustis to the north and Lake Dora to the south. The city combines residential neighborhoods with waterfront areas and features a mix of older and newer buildings throughout its layout.
Alexander St. Clair-Abrams founded the city in 1880, naming it after his Portuguese ancestor and establishing a post office, hotel, and railroad connection. These early infrastructure developments shaped it as a regional trade center.
The Union Congregational Church, completed in 1888, stands on land donated by the city founder and continues to serve as a focal point for the community's religious life.
The downtown area is best explored on foot, where most historic buildings and public services are concentrated. Proximity to the two lakes provides access to waterways and water-based activities for visitors.
The city is home to a seaplane base where water aircraft operate, one of the few such facilities in the country. This makes it a notable destination for aviation enthusiasts and water sports fans.
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