Tavares, Florida, US

Tavares, Florida, known as America’s Seaplane City, offers travelers beautiful lakescapes, aviation enthusiasm, and a charming downtown. Ideal for nature lovers and aviation enthusiasts, it blends relaxing lakeside experiences with vibrant local culture.

Location Overview

Timezone

America/New York

Local Time

03:59 AM

Population

17,400

Best Time to Visit

Temperature:

73-91°F (23-33°C) - Hot and humid; hurricane season begins.

Best Time

Jan, Mar-Apr, Oct-Dec

Connectivity

Power

120V

Port

Type A, Type B

Internet

Great

Airport Info

MCO

Orlando International Airport

Distance

Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes drive, covering about 53 miles via State Road 408 and I-4.

Description

Orlando International Airport offers numerous dining and shopping options, modern facilities, and efficient check-in processes. It is accessible from Tavares via State Road 408 and Florida's Turnpike.

Located in Central Florida, Tavares offers a unique blend of tranquil lakeside settings and vibrant aviation culture. Known as America’s Seaplane City, it features scenic waterfront parks and seaplane tours over beautiful Lake Dora. Visit the Wooton Park Seaplane Base for thrilling water takeoffs and landings. Nature enthusiasts can explore the vast array of wildlife and flora at the nearby Lake Griffin State Park and the Dora Canal. Tavares' historic downtown boasts charming eateries, boutiques, and regular events like car shows and music festivals, making it an ideal spot for any traveler seeking both relaxation and adventure.

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Tavares Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating

Safe

Exercise standard precautions.

Local Laws

Visitors should be aware of local laws regarding alcohol consumption and public behavior.

Crime Rates

Tavares is generally considered a safe city with lower crime rates compared to national averages. However, like any city, it experiences some crime, mostly non-violent.

Health Risks

Healthcare facilities are available and accessible in Tavares. There are no specific health risks beyond standard precautions.

Natural Disasters

Tavares is susceptible to hurricanes and tropical storms, particularly during the hurricane season from June to November. Flooding can also occur.

Law Enforcement

Tavares has a visible and effective law enforcement presence, with the local police department actively patrolling the area to ensure safety.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Tavares is limited, but generally safe. Most residents and visitors rely on personal vehicles or rideshare services.

Solo Travelers

Solo travelers can feel safe in Tavares, but should take standard precautions.

Recent Developments

There have been no significant recent developments impacting safety in Tavares.

No data Found...

No data Found...

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Tavares Monthly Weather Overview

Summary

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Rainy Days


Sunny Days


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Best season to visit

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Current Conditions ():

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Best Time to Visit Tavares

Summary: The best time to visit Tavares is between October and April when the weather is pleasant, ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). This period also hosts enjoyable festivals and outdoor recreational activities.

❄️

January

Best

Mild weather with temperatures around 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). Great for outdoor activities and exploring local parks.

💘

February

Moderate temperatures from 52°F to 72°F (11°C to 22°C). Suitable for hiking and exploring wildlife.

🌱

March

Best

Ideal for festivals with temperatures ranging between 55°F to 77°F (13°C to 25°C). Spring flora in bloom.

🌸

April

Best

Beautiful spring weather with temperatures from 61°F to 82°F (16°C to 28°C). Perfect for lakeside activities.

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May

Warmer weather starts with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 88°F (20°C to 31°C). Best for water activities.

☀️

June

Hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 73°F to 91°F (23°C to 33°C). Consider indoor activities.

🏖️

July

Peak summer heat with temperatures from 77°F to 93°F (25°C to 34°C). Great for water sports enthusiasts.

🌞

August

Hot and often rainy, with temperatures between 77°F to 93°F (25°C to 34°C). Perfect for indoor attractions.

🍂

September

Temperature slightly drops ranging from 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C). Less crowded post-summer.

🍁

October

Best

Cooler temperatures from 66°F to 84°F (19°C to 29°C). Fall events and festivals start.

November

Best

Pleasant weather, temperatures from 57°F to 79°F (14°C to 26°C). Ideal for hiking and outdoor festivals.

🎄

December

Best

Cool and comfortable, with temperatures ranging between 52°F to 73°F (11°C to 23°C). Holiday events ensue.

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Seasonal Events in Tavares

April 27 - April 28

Tavares Seaplane Splash-In

A thrilling event featuring seaplanes on the water, airshows, and pilot activities.

Tavares Events
November 24

Light Up Eustis

Annual lighting ceremony kicking off the holiday season with lights and music.

City of Eustis
April 26 - April 28

Leesburg Bikefest

One of the largest music and motorcycle events in the country, featuring concerts and shows.

Leesburg Bikefest
March 5

Taste of Lake & Business Expo

Enjoy tastes from local restaurants and businesses under one roof.

Lake Events
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Popular Foods in Tavares

Gator Tail

A local specialty often marinated and deep-fried, known for its unique flavor.

Key Lime Pie

A classic Floridian dessert made from key lime juice, egg yolks, and sweetened condensed milk.

Shrimp and Grits

A southern dish featuring shrimp served over creamy grits, popular for its savory taste.

Cuban Sandwich

A pressed sandwich made with ham, pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread.

Stone Crab Claws

Served cold with mustard sauce, these claws are a local delicacy during the season.

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Closest Airports to Tavares

Regional Airport

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Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB)

Known for budget flights primarily in the interest of leisure travelers. It offers quick check-ins and transport facilities.

Approximately 1 hour drive, around 44 miles via FL-429 and FL-46.

Consider use of ride-sharing options and explore the budget-friendly dining options within terminals.

SFB Website

International Airport

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Orlando International Airport (MCO)

Orlando International Airport offers numerous dining and shopping options, modern facilities, and efficient check-in processes. It is accessible from Tavares via State Road 408 and Florida's Turnpike.

Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes drive, covering about 53 miles via State Road 408 and I-4.

Use the parking garages for convenience and seek out the tram connections between terminals.

MCO Website

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Popular Trip Types

Family Vacation Icon

Family Vacation

Tavares, known as 'America's Seaplane City,' offers family-friendly activities such as the Wooton Park with its splash pad and playground, making it an engaging destination for families. The city also provides access to nearby natural attractions like the Dora Canal and the Lake Harris, perfect for kayaking and family picnics.

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Couples Retreat

The charming and tranquil atmosphere of Tavares is perfect for a couples retreat. Enjoy romantic seaplane tours over the beautiful lakes, quaint bed-and-breakfasts, and picturesque sunsets along the waterfront for a tranquil and intimate getaway.

Outdoor Adventure

Tavares is an excellent destination for those seeking outdoor adventures, with ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking in the surrounding natural landscapes. The Harris Chain of Lakes offers abundant water sports activities, making it a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts.

Bachelor Party

For an adventurous and entertaining bachelor party, Tavares offers unique experiences like seaplane tours and a vibrant downtown area with diverse dining and entertainment options. Proximity to larger tourist areas like Orlando provides additional nighttime fun and adventure.

Nature and Wildlife Exploration

Tavares is surrounded by rich natural environments, like the Ocala National Forest and the Emeralda Marsh Conservation Area. These areas offer excellent opportunities for wildlife observation, bird watching, and nature walks, making it ideal for nature lovers.

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Custom Language

Y'all

You all

Commonly used southern term for addressing a group of people warmly.

Bless your heart

Sympathy

An expression used with different intonations to convey sympathy or bless someone.

Hushpuppy

Fried bread

A popular term for deep-fried cornmeal typically served with seafood.

Sweet Tea

Iced tea

Refers to iced tea sweetened with sugar and a staple in southern regions.

Pitch a fit

Complain

Describes someone throwing a tantrum or making a fuss.

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Popular Sports & Teams in Tavares

Lake County Rowing Association

The Lake County Rowing Association promotes the sport of rowing in Lake County. It offers programs for various skill levels and hosts local regattas.

Lake County Rowing Association

Tavares High School Bulldogs

The Tavares High School Bulldogs feature competitive teams in various sports, including football, basketball, and baseball, and are well-known in the local high school sports scene.

Tavares High School Athletics

Lake County Soccer Club

The Lake County Soccer Club offers youth and adult soccer programs, fostering a passion for soccer in the community with competitive and recreational leagues.

Lake County Soccer Club

Tavares Sea Lions Swim Team

The Tavares Sea Lions is a community swim team that provides training and competition for swimmers of all ages and skill levels, promoting swimming in the area.

Tavares Sea Lions

Lake County Disc Golf Club

This club brings together disc golf enthusiasts in Lake County, hosting regular games and tournaments at local courses.

Lake County Disc Golf Club

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Unique customs/traditions

Seaplane Regattas

Tavares hosts seaplane gatherings that are unique and celebrate aviation heritage and community spirit.

Waterfront Concerts

From spring to fall, various concerts at the waterfront entertain tourists and locals.

Antique Car Cruises

Collection of car enthusiasts showcasing classic cars in downtown Tavares monthly.

Town Celebrations

Community-focused events like the Fourth of July Fireworks are grand traditions.

Fishing Tournaments

Numerous fishing contests are held annually, highlighting local angling culture.

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Recommended Activities by Group Type

Outdoor (Half-day)

This scenic park is a fantastic location for families to spend a day fishing together, fostering bonding in nature.

Tour (2-3 hours)

Explore local history with family while walking through Tavares' charming downtown area filled with unique shops and historical landmarks.

Wooton Park

Picnic at the Park

Outdoor (2-3 hours)

Families can enjoy a relaxed picnic at this beautiful park, which has tables and lovely settings by the water.

Lake County Observatory

Visit to the Observatory

Educational (Evening)

Families can enjoy stargazing and educational programs about astronomy at this interactive observatory.

Outdoor (1-2 hours)

Create a unique scavenger hunt around the park to engage kids in exploring nature and having fun together.

Ticket to travel

Pass along this location with your friends!

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