If you’re looking for fun things to do in Tavares this summer that the whole family will enjoy, you’re in the right place! Tavares, known as America’s Seaplane City, is full of outdoor adventure, lakeside charm, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, here are five local experiences that kids and parents alike will love.
1. Paddle Through Nature on a Family-Friendly Adventure
A tour we think you'll love
At Adventure Outdoor Paddle, we offer kayak and paddle board rentals and guided tours through the scenic Dora Canal—a shaded, calm waterway perfect for beginners and families with kids. Paddle past towering cypress trees, spot turtles sunbathing, and enjoy the quiet beauty of Old Florida.
For families, tandem kayaks make it easy to explore together. Don’t forget to bring lunch—there are great picnic spots along the canal, where you can pause and enjoy a snack surrounded by nature. With our 20% summer rental discount, it’s the perfect affordable adventure to unplug and connect as a family.
Book your family paddle experience here and use promo code AOPSUMMER20!
2. Take to the Skies with Jones Brothers Seaplane Adventures
For a totally unique experience, take a thrilling ride with Jones Brothers Seaplane Adventures. These one-of-a-kind flights lift off and land right on the water in Lake Dora! Kids love the excitement of flying low over the lakes and spotting boats, birds, and maybe even gators from above.
Tours range from quick 15-minute hops to longer excursions, and the pilots make the experience unforgettable. It’s an awesome way to see Tavares from a whole new perspective.
3. Burn Off Energy at the Playground in Wooton Park
Located right on the Lake Dora waterfront, Wooton Park features a seaplane-themed playground where little ones can run, climb, and let their imaginations soar. With shaded play areas and aviation-inspired structures, it’s a favorite stop for kids—especially after a paddle or ice cream treat.
The park also includes seasonal splash pads, walking paths, picnic tables, and front-row views of the real seaplane runway. It’s easily one of the most popular things to do in Tavares for families with young children.
4. Cool Off at Poppy’s Ice Cream Shop
Nothing says summer like a sweet treat from Poppy’s Ice Cream Shop in downtown Tavares. This local favorite serves small farm Amish-made ice cream, known for its rich, creamy texture and old-fashioned flavor. Kids (and grown-ups!) love choosing from a variety of classic and creative flavors, and you won’t want to miss their signature bubble waffles—a fun and delicious twist on the traditional cone. It’s the perfect stop after a paddle or park play session, with plenty of seating nearby to enjoy your treat while watching seaplanes take off from Lake Dora.
5. Have a Lakeside Picnic
Bring your own food or grab takeout from one of the local restaurants and enjoy a picnic by the lake. The Tavares waterfront offers shaded picnic tables and grassy spots perfect for spreading out a blanket. Or, if you’re paddling the Dora Canal, take a break under the cypress trees for a peaceful lunch surrounded by nature.
Whether you’re visiting from nearby Orlando or you’re a Lake County local looking for new ways to enjoy the outdoors, these family-friendly activities offer the best of summer. When it comes to things to do in Tavares, there’s no better way to make memories than by getting outside and exploring together.
