Tavares is a small town in the heart of the Sunshine State of Florida, located on the northern shore of Lake Dora. The town is rich in history, with a great selection of parks and outdoor activities to enjoy. From shopping and dining to lakefront activities like paddleboarding, kayaking and swimming. The town also offers plenty of galleries, museums and exhibitions to explore together, as well as live music and entertainment to enjoy. With its laid-back atmosphere, Tavares is the perfect place for a first date.
1. Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
Wooton Park is a great spot for a romantic evening stroll. With its beautiful lakefront views and plenty of benches to enjoy the scenery, it’s a great place for a leisurely walk. There are also plenty of trails for long, scenic walks around the lake and through the park. The nearby Lake Dora Botanical Garden is another great option for a romantic walk, with lush, tropical foliage and pristine gardens to explore.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Tavares
Tavares is home to dozens of unique cafes, making it a great place for a laid-back coffee date. Consider checking out Cedar Street Café, a cozy eatery with an extensive menu of coffee and tea. Or visit The Great Cupcake Company & Café, where you can grab a coffee and a sweet treat to share. And if you’re looking for more of a Mediterranean vibe, try Lazy Lee’s Mediterranean Bistro, where you can get a light bite to eat along with your coffee.
3. Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
Take your date to the Tavares Seaplane Base Museum for an entertaining and educational evening. The museum features over 10,000 artifacts from the history of seaplanes, with interactive displays and demonstrations. The nearby Tavares Historic Museum is another great spot to explore, with exhibits and artifacts from many of Tavares’ oldest establishments. And for art lovers, the Mount Dora Center for the Arts is an excellent option, with a variety of rotating exhibitions and performances to enjoy.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date to in Tavares
Tavares is home to a number of venues offering live music and entertainment. The Wooten Park Amphitheater is a great option, with outdoor performances throughout the summer. Or try out the Venue at Sunset Park for a more intimate experience, featuring live music from local and regional bands. And if you’re looking for something a bit more low-key, head to the Old Town Tavern for live music and craft beer.
5. Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
There are plenty of great pubs and restaurants in Tavares that make for a great spot for a first date drink or food. The Bowery Bar & Grill is a great option, with an extensive menu of craft cocktails and craft beers, as well as sandwiches and entrees. Or head to the Wooton Park Beer Garden, which offers an extensive selection of craft beers in a relaxing outdoor setting. And if you’re looking for something a bit more upscale, check out the Crooked Can Brewing Company, with its upscale brewery setting and extensive selection of craft beers.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Tavares
If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, try a date kayaking or paddleboarding on Lake Dora. You can rent kayaks and paddleboards from the local marina and explore the lake’s many coves and bays. Or head to the Phillip Park for some cycling and hiking, with plenty of trails to explore. If the weather isn’t cooperating, check out the local bowling alley or movie theater, or even head to the trampoline park for some fun, active date ideas.
