by | April 16, 2017
Bird’s Eye View: Mt. Dora
Though its name slightly exaggerates the hilly topography, this small lakeside charmer gets big attention for a peppy New England-esque pedestrian area.

- HISTORIC DONNELLY HOUSE Lacey Queen Anne details trim this creamy confection of a home, built in 1893 by a founder of the town, that’s occasionally open for viewing. 535 N. Donnelly St.
- LE PETIT SWEET Regulars say nothing’s diminutive about the taste of the mini cheesecakes, pies and cupcakes—not to mention the fresh-made macarons and cream puffs. 110 W. 5th Ave.
- MAGGIE’S ATTIC Party on with a 20-wine tasting at this vino and beer cellar—which takes strolling and sipping guests to multiple neighborhood venues. 237 W. 4th Ave.
- GOBLIN MARKET An eatery decked out with erudite bookshelves specializes in Florida seafood dishes, such as spiny lobster ciopinno, seared pompano and grilled mahi.
330 Dora Drawdy Way - VILLAGE COFFEE POT Rotating latte specials, like white chocolate maple and banana nut mocha and home-made ice cream, keep the caffeine buzz and sugar high interesting.
425 N. Donnelly St. - 1921 BY NORMAN VAN AKEN Well-known Florida chef Van Aken elevates southern cooking by using Sunshine State ingredients and funky flavor fusions. 142 E. 4th Ave.
- MODERNISM MUSEUM Carved wood furniture masterpieces by artists Esherick and Nakashima await, as do other works of American fine art and design. 145 E. 4th Ave.
- NORM’S PALETTE Take an al fresco painting lesson, nosh on flavorful tapas and savor sophisticated wines all in one evening? A winning trifecta! 303 N. Baker St.
- MOUNT DORA TROLLEY TOURS Hire a vintage refurbed trolley for a private one-hour narrated loop around the historic areas. 341 Alexander St.