Best Historic Stays: The Lakeside Inn in Mount Dora
Step back in time and savor the simple joys of life at the Lakeside Inn in Mount Dora. With its gentle lake breezes, ancient oak trees, picturesque gardens, and small-town charm, this iconic destination is a must-see on any Florida road trip. As soon as you arrive, you'll understand why visitors have been flocking to Florida's oldest continuously operating hotel for more than 140 years.
The History of Lakeside Inn
Perched on a hill with a perfect view of Lake Dora, the Lakeside Inn first opened its doors in 1883. It proudly holds the title of the oldest continuously operated hotel in Florida.
During its early days, the Central Florida Lakes Region was gaining popularity, and guests who ventured to the Inn were true trailblazers. From New York, the journey to Mount Dora took nearly a week! You’ll see incredible photos throughout the Inn of visitors arriving by steamship in the late 1800s—a journey only for the adventurous.
The 1920s marked a turning point when luxury hotels began popping up along Henry Flagler’s East Coast railway, followed by the hardships of the Great Depression. Yet, the Lakeside Inn survived and now stands as the last remaining Victorian-era hotel in Central Florida.
The Inn still honors one of its most distinguished guests: President Calvin Coolidge and his wife, Grace, who spent a month here after his presidency. Today, you can stay in the Coolidge Room, where a portrait of the President and his enlarged registration card proudly hang just outside of it.
After narrowly escaping demolition in the 1980s, the Lakeside Inn is now owned by Jim and Alexandra Gunderson, who continue to restore and maintain its historic charm. The Gundersons also recently renovated the historic Hacienda Hotel in New Port Richey.
What Awaits You Today
One of the most delightful surprises to me at Lakeside Inn is that it's not just a hotel—it's an entire campus!
“When people hear 'Inn,' they often think small,” said Dylan Gamez, Marketing and Public Relations Manager for Lakeside Inn. “While the original Inn was built in 1883, we’ve expanded with several additional buildings over the years.”
Today, the property includes four guest buildings, with the 1883 main Inn remaining at the heart of it all. The Gables and Terrace buildings, added by 1930, frame the property, along with a pool that overlooks the lake—perfect for a relaxing swim with a view.
Guests will notice the hum of activity as the Lakeside Inn team continues to preserve and maintain the historic hotel’s charm. “We take pride in the fact that there may be squeaky floorboards or minor imperfections because that’s all part of the character and charm,” said Gamez.
For the best views, book one of the end rooms in the Gables or Terrace buildings, which feature large windows overlooking the lake—giving you the feel of being aboard a steamship! No matter where you stay, you’ll be surrounded by framed photos of Mount Dora and the Lakeside Inn in its earlier days, transporting you back in time. And don't forget to enjoy a peaceful moment in one of the rocking chairs on the grand porch, just like visitors did in the 1880s.
Lakeside Inn’s Culinary Experiences
The restaurants at Lakeside Inn are open to both guests and day visitors, with all dining options located in the original 1883 building.
The Verandah, located on the Inn’s porch, is the only lakefront dining option in Mount Dora—making it a popular spot. My breakfast there was delightful. I had the Lakeside Inn Grand Slam with bacon, pancakes, home fries, eggs, and fresh orange juice. It was the perfect start to the day.
For more dining options, there’s the elegant Beauclaire Dining Room. Nearby Tremain’s Tavern is nostalgic and dimly lit with live music each night.
Don't forget to visit The Gatehouse for Lakeside Inn merchandise and local artwork. There were even Lakeside Inn cookie cutters in the shape of rocking chairs. How cute!
Sunset Views and Hidden Gems
The Waterside Bar, adjacent to the pool, is a hidden gem that’s sometimes overlooked by guests. “It’s one of the best spots for watching the sunset,” said Gamez. “Grab a cocktail, and enjoy the sun reflecting off the lake and the pool—it’s a triple-layer sunset experience!”
The Inn also offers a small beach area where you can unwind, listen to the birds, and let the lake breeze wash over you. For the perfect vantage point, stroll out onto the dock to witness breathtaking sunsets or take a boat tour with Premier Boat Tours, located right at the Lakeside Inn. Their daily tours of the Dora Canal and popular sunset cruises are a must. During the holiday season, the Christmas lights cruise is a magical way to view the city from the water.
Explore Mount Dora’s Charm
The beauty of staying at Lakeside Inn is that Mount Dora’s bustling downtown is just steps away so you can leave your car parked and explore easily.
"Guests love that they can walk to everything they want to see and do," said Gamez. Stroll through downtown, where you'll discover unique shops, and if you visit on the weekend, you might catch one of the city’s many festivals. On Sundays, don’t miss the open-air farmers market in Sunset Park for fresh, local delights.
For foodies, the "Taste of Our Town" guided food and wine tours offer an excellent way to sample local cuisine. And if you're up for adventure, try zipping across Lake Dora on a two-person catamaran with CatBoat Adventures—a thrilling way to see the Dora Canal and its beautiful, preserved landscapes.
While you’re exploring, be sure to visit Palm Island Park, greet the iconic Old Joe the alligator statue, and snap a photo in front of the 35-foot-tall Mount Dora Lighthouse—one of Florida’s smallest yet most charming lighthouses!
