and the Best of British pub. But these are just a few of the 63 eating establishments scattered around the town. Many can be found hidden around corners in the tiny lanes which run south of East 5th Avenue between Alexander and Baker streets. According to the excellent Visitor Map available from the Visitor Center, the town has 55 small shops and 16 salon/spas – OK, I’ll admit that one of these is for pets only, but shopaholics are going to love the many listed stores. Where to spend the night? There are interesting possibilities to suit all budgets. The grand Lakeside Inn nestled on Lake Dora’s shoreline, the Mount Dora Historic Inn or perhaps one of the many bed and breakfasts, often located in historic homes. Consult the Visitor Map and choose from Mount Dora’s 15 lodging establishments. But the town is also well known for its natural beauty. Tree-lined roads, parks and gardens enhance the beauty of its surroundings. OK, so what’s the best way of enjoying this remarkable town during a day’s visit? Simply follow the roads highlighted in yellow on the accompanying map and they will take you to the Visitor Center (housed inside the Chamber of Commerce). Pick up a free copy of the following: the informative and easy-to-read Visitor Map which lists all of the shops and lodgings, and the wonderfully descriptive Mount Dora Historic (Walking) Tours brochure. Then ask the desk to phone 352-409-8722 to arrange to have the electric Mount Dora Transit Trolley pick you up at the center. The trolley is by far the best way of enjoying Mount Dora, its sights and history. If possible, try and arrange to ride with guide Allen Hayes, who has many remarkable stories about the community...and that brings us back to The Starry Night. Allen told us the story about how the owner painted a short, low wall near the side of the building to help her autistic son identify Dave Hunter is the award-winning author of “Along Interstate-75” and “Along Florida’s Expressways” the quintessential guides for those driving to and in Florida. With his researcher wife Kathy, he enjoys travelling with history, gathering unusual and mysterious local stories. The Hunters winter in Lakeland, Florida. CSANews | WINTER 2023 | 21 Travel
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