seaplane tours tavares fl

Jones Brothers Air & Seaplane Adventures

Today is a holiday! Business hours may be different today.

Review Highlights

“ We did the Harris Chain and down river trip. ” in 2 reviews

“ We can not thank Jones Brothers enough for making our romantic and exciting proposal possible! ” in 2 reviews

“ If you've ever thought about riding in a seaplane, seeing Orlando from the air, or learning to fly seaplanes, GO HERE! ” in 3 reviews

Location & Hours

Suggest an edit

210 E Ruby St

Tavares, FL 32778

You Might Also Consider

Drone Training School

We offer drone pilot license classes, available by appointment now! read more

in Specialty Schools

A Travel Booked

A Travel Booked offers personalized recommendations tailored to your preferences, ensuring every detail of your journey is crafted to perfection. From selecting the ideal destinations and accommodations to uncovering local… read more

in Travel Agents

About the Business

Jones Brothers flies seaplane tours in Tavares and Mount Dora, Florida! Located in Tavares & Mount Dora, Florida year-round Views of beautiful Lake Dora and the Harris Chain of Lakes and the Orlando Attractions. Seaplane tours last from 10 minutes to over an hour; plus, Day Trips featuring breakfast lunch and dinner flights. Seaplane Barhops and sunset flights available! Take off and Land on the Water Tours as Low as $49 Jones Brothers is proud to announce that we are a Gold Seal Certified flight school. We offer single engine (SES) seaplane instruction right here in central Florida. …

Ask the Community

Ask a question

Got a question about Jones Brothers Air & Seaplane Adventures ? Ask the Yelp community!

Recommended Reviews

• 1 star rating Not good
• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
• 5 star rating Great

Select your rating

Overall rating

If I could give this a 10 star rating, I would! This was such a fun experience - I recommend everyone take a ride in a seaplane sometime! From start to finish the process was great. Signed up and paid online. There were a variety of tour to choose from, we did the chain of lakes tour. It was approx. 45 minutes long. We got an email reminder the day before letting us know where to check in and when to arrive. When we arrived the check in was super simple and we waited for our pilot. Once the plane was checked and ready to go our pilot took us over and loaded us up. Our pilot was super friendly and chatty. As far as the ride itself goes - SO. MUCH. FUN. We saw gators. We saw wildlife. We saw several lakes. Taking off and landing from the water was such a cool experience.

My sister-in-law treated my brother Eddie & I to a seaplane ride for our birthdays in February ( our second seaplane tour ride and we loved it! It was so much fun taking off from their base in Tavares! One plane ride we viewed the Harris Lake chain( undoubtedly flying over their gorgeous home on a canal w/ lake view in Leesburg! We often looked up in the sky to see their seaplanes flying high in the sky overhead) and another time longer ride to see Amusement Parks etc( 3 of us each time)! We had the best time ever & such a unique gift! We often sat at a hotel in Mt Dora having breakfast ( my sister-in-law took me there too for a special birthday breakfast . We sat on the porch, gazing out on the lake with our eyes settling on the seaplanes! We said we wanted to take a ride someday for my mom used to fly them( had her license at 17 yrs old in Spfld,Ma! She was written up in newspaper articles in all area newspaper's! Mom loved coming here & seeing the seaplanes! Fond memories it brought back! Flights on this wonderful company's seaplanes was so much fun( we brought our lap dog too & she loved it as well!)! Our pilot was professional, friendly, knowledgeable and made our flights so enjoyable! We cannot recommend this company enough! They are extraordinary!

This is a 5 star operation!! Wow... what a wonderful and unique experience. My sister and I kicked around the idea of taking a seaplane ride for a few months now and finally made a reservation. Evan was our pilot and his adorable wife helped set us up inside the office. We did the Harris Chain and down river trip. The views, the knowledgeable commentary by Evan made our trip perfect. I highly recommend Jones Brothers to anyone that wants to mark off the bucket list on new adventures... it worth every cent!

What a wonderfully run company with the friendliest most efficient employees. We booked the flight that included a stop in Weirsdale for lunch. Ryne was our pilot and he narrated what we were flying over and was able to answer any questions we had. Max was a bonus he was a pilot that was on the flight to learn more about the area. We did ask the two of them to join us for lunch. It was a beautiful day with an amazingly calm flight. Life is about making memories and this one will be always remembered with a smile on our face.

What an awesome experience. Paul was our pilot and he did such a good job showing us the lakes and surrounding area. We will def come back when we have company visiting!

The trip was such a great experience! Every one was super friendly and helpful. Highly recommend!

It was an exhilarating three days of training for my seaplane rating. The weather was great along with a relaxed ambiance and picturesque landscape. I was assigned Matt as my instructor. He's a seasoned vet and demonstrated a professionalism I have not seen yet. Coming from the single-engine land world, taking off and landing on the water is a different animal altogether. From the start, Matt set the expectations and laid the groundwork for what was to come once we ventured onto the seaplane and across various lakes. He wisely (or unwisely?) let me make the common mistakes and experience their consequences. I learned faster than I thought I would this way. If you plan on doing your seaplane training, I cannot recommend Matt enough. The staff at Jones Brothers are remarkably kind. Perhaps its because I come from NY where we are born apathetic. Morgan, a friendly and knowledgable person, answered all my many questions before the booking, and customized my schedule to my needs. Rob, the owner, was very kind to me and seemed genuinely interested in my goals. He was present every minute of my visit there, and was hands on for every flight that left the lake, whether it be a tour or training flight. He's a good businessman. Jones Brothers gets 5 stars from me. I have already recommended them to other pilots, and in time, they'll be doing the recommending as well.

We had a 3 day stay in lake county region of Florida. If your into picking antiques to good eats , country beauty, and a change of pace from coastal Florida this is for you. If you want to take a wonderful tour of this area from above you have to take at least a 15 minute puddle jump with tony our classy fun professional pilot as well as the two Ryan's cohesively working together to make this experience for my wife and I just wonderful. The next time I'm in region I will extend our flight because it is truly worth it. Thanks Tony, fly on!

My husband wanted to get his seaplane endorsement, so he picked this company. We made it the end of our trip and set out. The instructor was friendly, relaxed, and thourough. My husband had a blast and learned a lot. They even took me along on the second day for lunch. Flew i to a cute lakeside restaurant. They also do rides for non-pilots. We looked at the prices and holy cow were they reasonable! If you've ever thought about riding in a seaplane, seeing Orlando from the air, or learning to fly seaplanes, GO HERE! You won't regret it.

This was an amazing experience. The pilot was friendly, funny and knowledgeable. The weather was quite foggy and cloudy, and though I imagine it would have been even better on a clear day, our pilot flew lower so that our views were unimpaired. We got some excellent photos and memories of Lake County with the lakes behind it, and of course Mount Dora and Tavares. Lots of fun, and highly recommended.

9 other reviews that are not currently recommended

EZ Bus Tours and Travel

Contact us for all your group transportation. read more

in Travel Services, Bus Tours, Buses

Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures

Welcome to our enchanted 32-acre park, where adventure awaits around every corner. Explore the lighted brick pathways that wind along the beautiful lake, surrounded by nature's wonders. Get up-close and personal with Florida's… read more

Collections Including Jones Brothers Air & Seaplane Adventures

Mt Dora, FL (& Surrounding)

By Cricket C.

People Also Viewed

Flight Training Professionals

Blue Spring Adventures

Jones Brothers & Co

D & J Aviation

Flight Ready Aviation

Van Anda Aviation

Florida Flight Training

First Landings Aviation

Married To Adventure Tours

Aerostat Adventures, LLC

Best of Tavares

Things to do in Tavares

People found Jones Brothers Air & Seaplane Adventures by searching for…

Flight School Tavares

Mt Dora Sea Planes Tavares

Alligator Park in Tavares

Browse Nearby

Restaurants

Axe Throwing

Colleges & Universities

Other Places Nearby

Find more Aerial Tours near Jones Brothers Air & Seaplane Adventures

Find more Flight Instruction near Jones Brothers Air & Seaplane Adventures

Related Cost Guides

Town Car Service

• Log in Login as administrator

Seaplane Tours in Tavares, FL

Filter by price, flight length, filter by rating, 3 tours found.

Experience the Thrill of a Seaplane Tour

Trending attractions

Lake Dora Splash & Dash - 15 Minute Seaplane Tour

• Headsets provided
• 15 minute seaplane experience, dock to dock!
• Option for a photo and video package!
• Option for a champagne toast!
• Gratuity not included
• 210 E Ruby St, Tavares, FL 32778, USA Our company is located in beautiful Wooton Park in Tavares, home to America's Seaplane City.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Infants must sit on laps
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• Children under two years fly for free on parent's lap.
• Maximum 775 pounds per group. Refunds will not be given for overweight groups.
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 5 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• You'll start at 210 E Ruby St 210 E Ruby St, Tavares, FL 32778, USA Our company is located in beautiful Wooton Park in Tavares, home to America's Seaplane City. See address & details
• Pass by Tavares Mount Dora Long Island
• You'll return to the starting point

• 352rono 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Beautiful for present and past memories Very enjoyable, Morgan an excellent communicator and assistant to Paul the pilot who was excellent as well. very imformative for the entire duration of the flight, pointing out many things and where we were. Also was able to fly over a former bed and breakfast I used to have in the early 2000's. Read more Written April 8, 2024
• Luv2Cruise2011 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing and unique birthday flighy This is a really fun and unique experience. We did the short 15 minute splash and dash and I wish I picked the longer tour! The view was amazing and our pilot pointed out the different areas of the lake and blueberry field. I was a little nervous at first but I quickly felt comfortable and I’m so glad we did this! Read more Written March 18, 2024
• Marci G 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Real Magic in Central Florida! The sunset seaplane ride with pilot Paul was EXCEPTIONAL! He gave interesting facts and timed the sunset perfectly. I highly recommend for a completely unique experience. Read more Written February 26, 2024
• Julieperkins3462 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best experience ever! My husband and I went on sunset flight for Valentines Day. It was the most fun I’ve ever had! Our pilot was extremely knowledgeable and friendly! He explained everything we saw and did! I highly recommend this experience! And, Mount Dora/ Tavares is one of the prettiest places to do it! Read more Written February 17, 2024
• B4390BZedp 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles The Perfect Seaplane Adventure! From the moment we arrived at Jones Brothers Air & Seaplane, we were treated by the most friendly staff. Morgan was so helpful and very informative. Our pilot Tim, did a great job navigating and educating us about area history. Lots of great pictures. Hope to make this a yearly tradition! Thank you so much for the awesome memories!! Ed Read more Written February 15, 2024
• natascham719 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing experience Great experience with amazing views. Website made booking easy, staff and pilot very personable. Very memorable and fun adventure. Read more Written January 30, 2024
• B4531UYedg 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful!! Thank you for making my Mom’s 70 th birthday a special one!!! The pilot was very nice. The views were amazing and the plane flew smoothly. Read more Written January 22, 2024
• walterbH4193GQ 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles The splash Very adventurous, good way to see Tavares and Mount Dora. Pilot was friendly and informative. Except for the static in the head sets the trip was awesome! Read more Written January 8, 2024
• 2020Am 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A fun and learning experience, we worth the cost! A great local company. They are very professional and our pilot was very knowledgeable of all the lakes and community areas we flew over. Especially over the theme parks, and new areas as Orlando expands westward. Read more Written December 3, 2023
• jacaranda22 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Nothing compares to the view from above Birthday present for my husband who is a pilot. We have never heard of Tavares but we have heard there was a sea plane base somewhere around Leesburg. What a day full of discovery and awesome sights, from the road and from the air. We arrived a bit early so we got a chance to walk around the lovely waterfront full of exotic plants, fun parks and families and friends walking and playing around. Our turn to board our sea plane came and the crew were there to fill us in on what to expect and help us board. The rest is history! Nothing compares to seeing the lay of the land from above. We took some hight and then we flew down and close up to the rivers snd swamps of the area. We came around and I spotted the lively towns of Mt. Dora and Howie on the Hill. We saw farms, lakes and highways, towns and secluded vives, Soon too soon we came around to Tavares and landed flawlessly. Thoroughly enjoyable and highly recommended. Surprise somebody with a sea plane ride. Read more Written November 14, 2023
• 966mmc 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Awesome!! My husband and I scheduled our first flight on a Sea plane for our One Year wedding anniversary and we had an amazing time!! Absolutely loved the flight with great views. I would highly recommend them the pilot was knowledgeable of the area and pointed out several landmarks within our flight. Read more Written November 8, 2023
• rockyisle 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic ride We had a great ride with Ethan this afternoon. Couldn't believe how far we went in just a short time. I loved the touch and go on the river. Could have done that over and over again. Bucket list has been checked for me and our granddaughter. Thanks Ethan!! Read more Written November 7, 2023
• marylouh984 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Awesome flight My granddaughter and her new husband thoroughly enjoyed the sea plane ride! They were very polite and accommodating. We will definitely treat more visitors to this unique experience Read more Written October 23, 2023
• smoreland279 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Loved It! Loved this experience! Captain Paul was super! I took my two grown sons and we had a blast! Nice lunch at the Kalua Beach Bar and Grill before going up and a nice view of the harbor. Great idea for visiting guests to Florida! Thanks so much for the fun! Read more Written October 17, 2023
• kristiej446 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Birthday memory for my 11 year old son! I wanted to do something that my son would remember for his birthday because after a year or two they forget or outgrow presents but great memories last a lifetime. When we arrived he thought we were going to the park next door, but then he realized when I got my credit card what was going on. He was filled with nervous excitement as we entered the building. We met out Pilot, Eason, who was friendly and competent. We were on board the plane and taking off less than 10 minutes after arriving. Eason gave us a great tour and we were able to take some great pictures. We did a splash and dash into the lake. We even got to see our house from the air. The ride was not bumpy and it was not scary. My son and I both really enjoyed this experience and I would highly recommend this to anyone looking to make an incredible memory. Read more Written September 26, 2023

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Lake Dora Splash & Dash - 15 Minute Seaplane Tour provided by Jones Brothers Air & Seaplane Adventures

• Destinations
• Work With Us

Best Things to do in Tavares, Florida (The Seaplane Capital of the World!)

Wondering what the best things to do in Tavares, Florida are? You’ve come to the right place! Just a 10-minute drive away from the charming town of Mount Dora, Florida (and less than an hour outside of Orlando) is this historic hidden gem of a town located in Lake County.

As a matter of fact, this was one of our favorite stops on our Central Florida road trip through the historic citrus-growing region of the Sunshine State! Situated on shores of Lake Dora as well as surrounded by Lake Harris and Lake Eustis (a few of the 1,000 lakes in Lake County), this cool town is famous for being America’s Seaplane City and is the Seaplane Capital of the World!

There are so many amazing things to do in Tavares, Florida from visiting the gorgeous parks filled with giant oak trees and Spanish moss, getting sky high over the lakes in a seaplane, to amazing food! We recommend stopping in Tavares for at least a few hours to check out all the amazing attractions here – a great addition especially if you’re staying in Mount Dora!

What to See & Do in Tavares

Jones brothers & co. seaplane adventures.

It may not surprise you to know that one of the best things to do in Tavares, Florida is to go on a seaplane adventure! Lake County, Florida is known as the land of (over) 1,000 lakes, and as mentioned earlier – Tavares is the seaplane capital of the world.

In fact, this is where the annual Seaplane-A-Palooza takes place! At Seaplane-A-Palooza, there are many seaplane competitions to watch and even a twilight air show. 

One great way to enjoy the seaplane scene of Tavares, Florida is to book a seaplane adventure! Jones Brothers & Co. Seaplane Adventures offers many seaplane tours, excursions, and day trips.

They have a few different flight options, we did the 40-minute excursion over several lakes where we spotted tons of gators from above as well as the historic citrus growing region from above.

If you’re looking for a more extensive outdoor activity, you can take a seaplane to a nearby lake and spend the day on a paddleboard or kayak on one of their featured excursions! Then, the seaplane will take you back to the original base at the end of the day. There are also seaplane tours that take you to various restaurants and bars on the water! 

There are also full-day trips to places like the Florida Keys too if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous! 

If you are prone to motion sickness, like myself, come prepared with ginger chews or take something for motion sickness relief before embarking on this small aircraft!

Wooton Park

Another great outdoor activity in Tavares, Florida, is visiting the Wooton Park! This gorgeous waterfront park is right along Lake Dora and even has a seaplane-themed kid’s splash zone for the young ones (or those young at heart – not going to lie I was tempted to go play in it).

Wooton Park also has lots of picnic tables and is great for anyone that wants to watch the seaplanes go by!

Even though the park itself is relatively small, there are many nearby walkways along Lake Dora. On these walkways, you can find majestic swamp creatures like gators and even eagles that fly by throughout the day.

Don’t miss walking through the few pathways here too that are covered by a canopy of ancient trees here that are covered in Spanish moss! 

Tavares History Museum

Right along Wooton Park, inside of the old Tavares Train Station Depot, is the Tavares History Museum! The museum is housed in the Tavares Train Station which was used during the heyday of the citrus growing in the region to export out the region’s citrus.

This is a great place to visit if you want to learn more about Tavares, Florida, and its past through various artifacts from its citrus growing past including old citrus labels to antique barber shop equipment and other fun items given by the Taveres Historical Society. You’ll also find a large interactive display with ten buttons that you can press to activate different pieces of art throughout the building!

Don’t miss outside of the history museum too where you can find benches at the old outdoor waiting area and a sign featuring the artwork of two of the famous citrus labels artwork!

Tavares Citrus Labels

While you explore Tavares, Florida, be sure to look out for the Tavares Citrus Labels! The tropical climate in Florida has made it the go-to place for growing citrus. There is still proof of the booming citrus market surge that happened here too. 

If you’re a fan of history and vintage branding, these are pretty cool points of interest. Lake County, Florida was one of the top citrus producers in the country before a giant cold snap that devastated the industry in the 1980s. From the early 1900s, until WWII, the local citrus producers and growers would create unique labels to entice shoppers to buy their products through design.

To pay homage to these old, and really cool labels (that some people even collect from antique shops) you can visit the Citrus Label Tour signs throughout the county which have two different vintage label designs on each sign. During our trip, we did a bit of a scavenger hunt to find them all!

As mentioned, these citrus labels were initially created by citrus growers and farmers that wanted to stand out in the booming market that Florida had become. These creative advertisements are really fun to see even to this day.

In fact, there’s one sign with two labels at the train station (above the benches at the outdoor waiting platform area) that is now the Tavares History Museum: Tavares Train Depot! Years ago, citrus packing companies would ship tons of fruit crates to customers from that train station.

Another place where you can find a citrus sign with two labels is at the Lake County Museum (317 W Main Street).

Dine at Puddle Jumpers Lakeside Grill & Bar

Right along Wooton Park is one of the best places to eat in town, Puddle Jumpers Lakeside Grill & Bar. Here, you can find all kinds of southern deep fried goodies as well as citrus-inspired menu items like their citrus salmon or their Florida citrus margarita!

Sit outside on their patio and you can also enjoy the view of Lake Dora!

This popular American restaurant has something for everyone, including wings, soups, and salads. They also serve wine, sangria, beer, and more! After enjoying all the best things to do in Tavares, this is a great meal or pitstop – even if you’re just stopping by for an extra-citrusy margarita.

Many things to do in Tavares, Florida, take place around Lake Dora, which Wooton Park bellies up to the shores here and where the seaplane adventures embark from. This six-mile lake is home to a marina that offers many of the activities here and some of the best views.

If you don’t want to take a seaplane tour, there is no need to worry because at Wooton Park and at the shores of Lake Dora in Tavares is a great place just to sit and enjoy the waterfront view.

If you’re lucky you might spot some eagles or gators from here too! There are also many palm trees and older trees covered in Spanish moss nearby that are very picturesque. Be sure to also walk over to the Tavares Pavillion on the Lake too.

Memorial for the Groveland Four

A historic landmark and spot in Tavares that we recommend learning about and visiting is the memorial for the Groveland Four. Located on the front lawn of the courthouse, this memorial commemorates the four Black men who were wrongly convicted of assaulting a woman in 1949 during the Jim Crow era. These four men became known as the Groveland Four.

As a small part of reconciliation, although the families of the Groveland Four are still waiting for the state to exonerate these men, this memorial was erected in 2020 .

There is 4-foot granite memorial that features a bronze plaque with a written account that the four men’s families helped do to clear their names in this wrongful conviction case. In fact, this memorial is something that both the family and the community have been urging for. 

Although this may be a heavy topic, acknowledging this history is essential and an educational moment of the continued atrocities and racism in our country. 

Lake County Museum

If you’re not sure what to do in Tavares, another great option is visiting the Lake County Museum located on the first floor of the historic courthouse (317 W Main Street)! This popular, small town museum has fine art exhibitions that change each month. These exhibits highlight local & regional arts and showcase many important moments of Lake County’s history!

The Lake County Museum also offers many fun activities, including a kid’s summer camp and art classes for those of all ages. The museum also has a community art center! Keep in mind that this museum is only open from Thursday through Sunday from 12-4 PM.

Outside the Lake County Museum of Art is where you can find one of the Citrus Label signs in Tavares and the Groveland Four Memorial.

Tavares Nature Park

If you’re not sure what to do in Tavares, but you know you want to explore the outdoors, check out Tavares Nature Park located along Milwaukee Ave. This hidden gem is a great place to have a serene nature walk . 

This nature park has a long trail that is regularly maintained but is still very much so immersed in nature. Walking along this trail is a great way to immerse yourself in nature and see wildlife, including bears, snakes, squirrels, and birds.

The ancient trees that make up this park make the trail extra picturesque and shady. As you follow this trail, you can expect to quickly circle around the park and find lots of public picnic tables. 

Twistee Treat

No list of things to do in Tavares is complete without a visit to Twistee Treat! This iconic ice cream shop is in the shape of a giant ice cream cone that’s 25 feet tall!

This Florida-based chain serves soft-serve ice cream, milkshakes, slushies, and hot dogs. They also serve super popular banana splits, but we recommend going for a soft serve cone with a dip. There’s something about the fun ice cream cone building that just makes us feel like a kid again.

The Tavares, Florida Twistee Treat location can be found at 397 E Burleigh Blvd – but if you miss this one and you’re in a car, there are several in the area you can hit up!

Tavares Community Theater Company

The Tavares Community Theater Company is a great place to watch a play put on by local artists! This non-profit theater puts on a new play every two months and has been putting on shows since 2014.

Be sure to check out their website for all their current and upcoming shows plus score tickets for your visit.

Adventure Outdoor Paddle

One of the best ways to explore Tavares, Florida, is to go through the various lakes and canals! Adventure Outdoor Paddle is a canoe and kayak tour agency that offers many group water activities. Many of these excursions go through the Dora Canal and various nearby lakes.

Adventure Outdoor Paddle’s guided tours are great for seeing gators and getting a tan! Thanks to the tour guides that lead each tour, you’ll be able to learn more about the town’s history and the local wildlife. 

Deer Island Country Club

Did you know that Florida is one of the best states for modern golf courses? It probably has to do with that fact you can play all year long in the warmer temperatures that are found here.

If you like golf, be sure to check out the Deer Island Country Club . This country club has a massive golf course that actually has quite a bit of wildlife sightings, including alligators. eek!

This golf course is challenging but is still fun for beginners. There are tiny bodies of water scattered throughout the course, and you’ll have a great view at each hole. This country club also has a clubhouse with lots of food options. Watch out for those gators so you don’t have a Happy Gilmore moment like Chubbs Peterson.

Through the Years Vintage Market 

Through the Years Vintage Market is one of the most unique markets you’ll ever go to. Located in a 2-story house, this market has vintage furniture, artwork, books, and more! 

Through the Years is especially popular during the holidays since they fully decorate for each one! They also have many great gifts and decorations that change depending on the season. There is also coffee and snacks that are regularly served here!

Get Wet Watersports

Another great way to explore Tavares is to rent a kayak, jet ski, or boat from Premiere Get Wet Watersports ! They have many boats to choose from and offer jet skis by the hour.

No matter what you decide to rent, you’ll be able to explore the Dora canal and the other nearby Harris chain lakes! The knowledgeable staff can also give you tips on where to go during your outing. 

Enjoyed this guide for the best things to do in Tavares, Florida? Bookmark for later and enjoy your travels!

GET 5 FREE  LIGHTROOM PRESETS

Is this your business?

Jones Brothers Air & Seaplane Adventures

Tour Phone: +1 352-508-1800

Tour Website

Splash & Dash + 2hr Paddle Rental For those who have a passion for outdoor activities, this combo trip is for you! Taking off and landing from the water, our 15-minute “Splash & Dash” tour gives you a quick trip around several area lakes before returning to the seaplane base where your 2-hour kayak or Stand Up Paddleboard rental will be waiting.

Fly Out, Paddle In Take off from Lake Dora and take in the sights of the Harris Chain of Lakes from above on a 15 minute flight. After landing on Lake Eustis, your adventure continues with a one-hour guided kayak tour back to Tavares through the beautiful Dora Canal. Approximately 1.5 hours.

Breakfast Fly-In & DeLeon Springs As the sun shines, rainbows play across the bottom of the crystal-clear spring basin at DeLeon Springs, a beautiful spot along the edge of the St John’s River and Woodruff National Wildlife refuge. Both, a popular day-use recreation area, and an important archaeological site, the Springs showcase the delicate balance necessary between enjoyment of the outdoors and preservation of irreplaceable resources. Fly in for breakfast at the Old Spanish Sugar Mill where they have been serving in a unique and unusual style since 1961. Each of their tables are equipped with a griddle and they bring you pitchers of homemade pancake batters you pour on and flip them over right at your table. Don’t forget to take a sip at the Fountain of Youth! Approximately 2.5 hours.

Lunch Fly-In & Lake Weir Situated on the South shore of Lake Weir in historic Weirsdale, Florida, Eaton’s Beach Sandbar & Grill offers spectacular lakefront views in casual, comfortable surroundings. View the wildlife, beachgoers, and skiers while enjoying delicious Florisiana™ cuisine – the selections on their fantastic menu are inspired by deep-seated culinary roots of Cajun, Creole, Low Country, BBQ, and Spanish cuisine. Arrive in style in your private seaplane as you taxi right up to the beach! Approximately 2.5 hours.

Romantic Dinner Fly-in Fly over the vast Lake Apopka en route to Lake Killarney for an upscale, lakefront dinner at Hillstone Restaurant you won’t forget. A beautiful lakefront setting combined with a menu that features grilled artichokes, prime rib cooked to perfection, fresh delectable seafood and much more, is the perfect experience for birthdays, anniversaries, or just a special dinner outing with a unique twist. Maximum group weight for Hillstone is 500 pounds. Alternative restaurants are also available with a maximum weight of 775 pounds. Approximately 2.5 hours.

Seaplane Bar Hop! This WORLD RENOWN SEAPLANE BAR HOP is guaranteed to have you grinning from ear to ear! We will take off from Lake Dora in search of the best waterfront watering holes in Central Florida. As we land on Lake Eustis, Lake Harris, Little Lake Harris, Lake Weir and the Ocklawaha River, we will taxi up to the beach or dock for stops at 2-3 different locations to belly up to the bar and quench your thirst. We will hop at your pace so feel free to grab a drink and move on to the next stop, or chill and enjoy a leisurely paced adventure. Approximately 3 hours.

Private Dora Canal Cruise with Harris Chain by Air Get away from it all with a private cruise & seaplane flight! Departing from Mount Dora on a privately chartered trip across Lake Dora and through the breathtaking Dora Canal. After the 1.5 hour cruise to Tavares, a private seaplane will be waiting for your adventure to experience the Harris Chain of Lakes from above. After landing, you can grab a bite to eat in Tavares’ Waterfront Entertainment District or bring a picnic to enjoy in Wooton Park on the shores of Lake Dora before your returning boat ride to Mount Dora. Approximately 3.5 hours.

Sorry, no records were found. Please adjust your search criteria and try again.

Sorry, unable to load the Maps API.

Leave a Review Cancel reply

Flying Fish Air

Raven Helicopters, LLC

San Diego Helicopter Tours

Change location, find awesome listings near you.

Lakefront Florida Realtors® • ERA Grizzard Real Estate • Mount Dora, Florida (352) 308-7515

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

Find Your Favorite Beach

Atlantic Coast

Beach Camping

Family-Friendly

Places to stay.

Campgrounds

Travel Ideas

Accessible Travel

Eco-Friendly Travel

African American Heritage Travel

More Travel Ideas

Popular links.

Florida Webcams

Toll Roads Info

Travel Guides

Tavares seaplane base florida: seaplane festivals & boutique hotel.

By Gary McKechnie  

Have you been to Tavares? It’s a point on the Golden Triangle of Tavares, Eustis, and Mount Dora (where I live) which is in Lake County, about 40 minutes northwest of Orlando . For the longest, Tavares was just a quiet town, the county seat, where government workers and attorneys and such would show up in the morning and then leave in the evening. Then in 2006 they looked around, noticed 4,500-acre Lake Dora in their backyard, and a few smart people got some really good ideas. They worked with the Sunnyland Antique & Classic Boat Society to relocate the popular Antique Boat Show (March) away from Mount Dora, they began to host speedboat races (also March) and dragon boat races (April), and entrepreneurs arrived and opened waterfront restaurants where diners sit outside (or inside) - Ruby Street Grille, O’Keefe’s Irish Pub and Al’s Landing (which is actually three restaurants) - and enjoy lake breezes and sunshine. Notably, part of the Al's Landing complex is the new Lakeview Inn, a boutique hotel that opened this week. You know what else? The people of the town had the smarts to invest $8 million on the Tavares seaplane base and proclaim itself America’s Seaplane City . As I understand it, some smart people (maybe the same ones) realized there wasn’t a full-service seaplane base between Atlanta and Key West and so they created one. Come here on any weekend and you’ll see pilots landing their Cessnas, Gooses, SeaRays, Caravans, Twin Bees, and Cubs, grabbing a bite to eat at Al’s Lakeside Landing, checking in at the Woodlea House (affectionately called ‘The Nation’s Smallest Airport Terminal’), then flying off again. In adjacent Wooten Park, families are picnicking and kids are playing and splashing in the seaplane-themed Splash Park. The town also has seaplane training, ghost tours, boat tours, steam train rides, fishing tournaments, and more than a dozen major events annually. The best thing about writing about off the beaten path Florida is that there’s so much of it, and sometimes I forget that I live right in the middle of it. So if you’re in my neighborhood, drop by to see the Tavares seaplane base. If your desire is to discover new off the beaten path destinations, the town is a great stop.

STRATEGIC ALLIANCE PARTNERS

Jones Brothers Air & Seaplane Adventures

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Jones Brothers Air & Seaplane Adventures - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Florida Road Map
• County Road Maps
• City Street Maps
• East-West Road Trip Maps
• North-South Road Trip Maps
• Vintage Florida Maps
• Towns and Cities
• Towns at the End of the Road
• Florida Ghost Towns
• Day Trips By Theme of Interest
• Day Trips by Destination Location
• Gainesville within 100 miles
• Jacksonville within 100 miles
• Miami, South Florida, and Keys within 100 miles
• Orlando within 100 miles
• Pensacola within 100 miles
• Tallahassee within 100 miles
• Tampa within 100 miles
• The Villages within 100 miles
• Statewide Road Trips
• Northwest Florida Road Trips
• North Central Florida Road Trips
• Northeast Florida Road Trips
• Central East Florida Road Trips
• Central Florida Road Trips
• Central West Florida Road Trips
• Southwest Florida Road Trips
• Southeast Florida Road Trips
• River Road Trips
• Florida Keys
• Attractions
• Florida State Parks
• Motels, Inns, Hotels
• Florida Statewide Restaurants
• Florida Cracker Restaurants
• Community Theater
• Florida Crackers
• Florida Nostalgia
• Florida History
• Lost Attractions
• Florida Facts
• Florida Towns

TAVARES, FLORIDA

By   Mike Miller   Updated September 29, 2023

Tavares, Florida Things To Do, Lodging, Dining, & Real Estate At End Of Article

Tavares is a town of 14,000 people about 35 miles northwest of Orlando.  Along with Eustis and Mount Dora , it is one apex of what is known as Florida's  "Golden Triangle" . 

Locals pronounce it  "Ta Varies."

HISTORY OF TAVARES, FLORIDA

Tavares is the county seat of Lake County, Florida, and was founded in 1880 by Alexander St. Clair Abrams , a railroad and newspaper executive.

He named the town after one of his Portuguese ancestors.

Abrams initially sought to develop the town as a tourist destination, but later made the decision that its location would result in it becoming a great industrial and railroad center and the capital of Florida.

He spent at least $500,000 building a large hotel, lumber mills, stores, a cigar factory and railroad lines.

Streets and avenues were named after Abrams' relatives and friends.

The Duke of Sutherland and other British noblemen stayed at Abrams' hotel, The Peninsular.

A large part of Tavares was destroyed in a fire in 1888, and a few years after that the great freeze of 1895 and 1896 caused the town to become nearly abandoned.

One of the existing reminders of the old days in Tavares is the Union Congregational Church at 302 St. Clair Abrams Avenue. 

The church was built in 1888 on land donated by Mr. Abrams. 

TAVARES, FLORIDA TODAY

Citrus made a comeback and was a staple of the community for many years until the freezes of the early 1980s destroyed many of the groves.

The historic Lake County courthouse was built in 1922 and still serves the County with various offices and a museum. 

It is on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Lake County Administration Building is next door to the historic courthouse. 

It was an architectural sensation to the local people when it was built in the 1960s and served as the new courthouse until larger buildings were built downtown in recent years.

A recently built traffic circle defines the downtown area around the various government buildings. It facilitates the flow of traffic heading in all directions.

The historic Duncan House on Lake Dora Drive in Tavares is on the National Register of Historic Places. It has six bedrooms and 6 baths and recently sold to a private party for $680,000.

TAVARES, FLORIDA HAS BECOME THE SEAPLANE CITY

Tavares is at the west end of Lake Dora, and boating and seaplanes are an important part of the town's ambiance.

The chain of lakes including Lakes Dora, Harris, Griffin and Eustis are connected by canals and give boaters access to the St Johns River and ultimately the Atlantic Ocean.

The downtown area has been redeveloped with many nice shops and restaurants, and a seaplane base makes for some entertaining flights in Central Florida.

Three small boutique hotels have been built in downtown Tavares with beautiful views of Lake Dora.

A new lakeside pavilion built by the City has beautiful lake views and has become a popular wedding venue.

The City has also created a seaplane marina and base adjacent to the pavilion.

There is a train station downtown next to Wooten Park.  Until recently, a tourist train ran from Tavares to Mount Dora. Another ran from Tavares to Eustis.

The condition of the track became bad, and the tourist trains have been discontinued.

This list of  MOUNT DORA AREA RESTAURANTS  that I've personally tried also includes many in Tavares and Eustis.

THINGS TO DO IN TAVARES, FLORIDA

Wooton Park and Tavares Seaplane Base   100 E Ruby St, Tavares, FL 32778.  (352) 742-6267 

Begin your adventure at Wooton Park, where the Tavares Seaplane Base adds a unique touch to your visit. Watch seaplanes gracefully land and take off from the glistening waters of Lake Dora. Our favorite? Take a scenic seaplane tour for a bird's-eye view of the stunning surroundings. It's an exhilarating experience that captures the essence of Tavares' connection to its beautiful lakes. 

Tavares Pavilion on the Lake   200 S Disston Ave, Tavares, FL 32778.  (352) 742-6267 

For a touch of elegance, visit the Tavares Pavilion on the Lake, an exquisite venue nestled on the shores of Lake Dora. Whether you're attending an event or simply exploring the surroundings, the Pavilion offers stunning views and a serene atmosphere. Stroll along the lakefront promenade, enjoy the landscaped gardens, and take in the tranquility of the surroundings. It's a hidden gem that showcases Tavares' commitment to providing a beautiful backdrop for life's special moments. 

Lake County Historical Museum   317 W Main St, Tavares, FL 32778.  (352) 343-9890 

Delve into the rich history of Lake County at the Lake County Historical Museum. Located in the heart of Tavares in the courthouse, this museum chronicles the area's past through engaging exhibits and artifacts. Wander through displays that showcase the evolution of Central Florida, from the early settlers to the present day. It's a journey through time that provides a deeper understanding of the community's roots, making it a must-visit for history buffs and those curious about the town's vibrant past. 

Tavares Nature Park   1551 Milwaukee Avenue, Tavares, FL 32778 

Nature enthusiasts, rejoice! Tavares Nature Park offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking a connection with the outdoors. Wander along the scenic trails that wind through the lush landscapes, providing opportunities for birdwatching and quiet contemplation. The park's serene ambiance, complemented by the soothing sounds of nature, makes it a perfect escape for a leisurely stroll or a moment of relaxation. It's a green oasis in the heart of Tavares, inviting you to unwind and embrace the tranquility of the natural surroundings. Picnic tables and restrooms are available. 

Fish Camp on Lake Eustis   901 Lakeshore Blvd, Tavares, FL 32778.  (352) 742-4400 

No visit is complete without savoring the local flavors, and one of our favorite spots is Fish Camp on Lake Eustis. Nestled along the waterfront, this laid-back eatery offers a diverse menu featuring fresh seafood, mouthwatering burgers, and signature cocktails. The relaxed atmosphere, combined with scenic views of Lake Eustis, creates the perfect setting for a delightful dining experience. It's not just a meal; it's a culinary journey that captures the essence of Tavares' lakeside charm. 

Hickory Point Park   27341 FL-19, Tavares, FL 32778.  (352) 324-6141 

End your Tavares adventure at Hickory Point Park, a hidden gem along Lake Harris. Pack a picnic, soak up the sun on the sandy shores, or take a refreshing dip in the lake. With its breathtaking views and recreational facilities, including volleyball courts and playground, Hickory Point Park is the ideal spot for a day of lakeside relaxation. It's a perfect conclusion to your Tavares escapade, providing a serene setting to reflect on the day's discoveries. 

Ask Me About These Tavares Listings

 ALL ABOUT TAVARES, FLORIDA

TAVARES RESTAURANTS

TAVARES MOTELS/INNS

TAVARES  REAL ESTATE

INTERACTIVE GOOGLE MAP OF TAVARES, FLORIDA

Our Facebook page has more than 130,000  followers who love off the beaten path Florida: towns, tourist attractions, maps, lodging, food, festivals, scenic road trips, day trips, history, culture, nostalgia, and more.   We post articles every day.  Please check it out and if you like it, we would appreciate a "like" from you.

SHARE ON YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA

By Mike Miller, Copyright 2009-2024 Florida-Back-Roads-Travel.com

Privacy Policy

Florida Back Roads Travel is not affiliated with or endorsed by Backroads, a California-based tour operator which arranges and conducts travel programs throughout the world.

Recent Articles

101 Famous Floridians: They Had An Impact on the State

May 11, 24 07:50 PM

The ultimate adventure with a sky to sea experience

Fly Out Paddle In Tour

What's Included  

15 -minute seaplane flight around the Harris Chain of lakes from Jones Brothers Seaplane s

Professional paddle guide with instruction

Your choice of premium paddle equipment including a single kayak, tandem  kayak or stand up paddle board with paddles

All safety equipment including fitted life vest and whistle

What's Not Included  

Gratuties for your pilot

Gratuties for your paddle guide

Price  

$169.99  per person, plus tax.

Highlights  

Soar over the Harris Chain of Lakes with a thrilling 15-minute seaplane flight from Lake Dora

Take in breathtaking aerial vistas, offering a unique perspective of the scenic landscape of Lake County, Florida

Our experienced guides will ensure you have a safe and educational journey

Upon landing at Lake Eustis, your experienced paddle guide will equip you for an unforgettable journey back to Tavares through the Dora Canal

Immerse yourself in the local ecosystem, with opportunities to spot wildlife along the way.

What to Bring  

Wear comfortable clothing, shoes that can get wet (water shoes or sandals)

A resuable water bottle for hydration

A hat and sunscreen is recommended

Some of our guests choose to bring a change of clothes 

Tour Minimum/Max  

We require a minimum of two people booked in order to operate this tour

Seaplane can hold a maximum combined passenger weight of 775 lbs (This is typically 4-5 ppl depending on group weight).

Fly Out Paddle In Tour Overview

Experience the ultimate blend of thrill and tranquility on our Fly Out Paddle In Tour. Your adventure kicks off with a breathtaking 15-minute seaplane flight over the picturesque Harris Chain of Lakes, a sensory overload as you take in the awe-inspiring sights from above. The feeling of freedom as you soar through the skies is exhilarating, and the view of the shimmering waters below is nothing short of mesmerizing. As you touch down on Lake Eustis, our friendly paddle guide will be there to greet you, setting the stage for the second part of your adventure. The Dora Canal beckons with its lush, untouched beauty – the air here is scented with the essence of nature, and the soft splash of your kayak or paddle board gliding through the crystal-clear water connects you to the serene surroundings. Feel the wonder of the natural world and the thrill of adventure intertwine in this unique journey, an experience that leaves you with a heart full of awe and a soul refreshed by the great outdoors. Join us on select weekdays for this exclusive tour, offered in partnership with Jones Brothers Air and Sea, as we unlock the magic of Lake Dora like never before.

Satisfaction Guaranteed  

Your satisfaction is our top priority. We're confident that your adventure with Adventure Outdoor Paddle will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Free Cancellation up to 48 hours  

Life can be unpredictable, and we understand that. That's why we offer free cancellations up to 48 hours before your scheduled adventure. Change of plans? No problem! We'll provide a full refund minus a small credit card processing fee to keep things hassle-free.