The city of Clermont in Florida is a town dominated by beautiful lakes and an interesting history. Many people visit to relax near the lakes and take in the scenery. Join us as we explore some of the best things to do in Clermont, FL for a happy vacation.
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ToggleClermont is a vibrant city full of life and activities. There is always something to do on the weekends including local festivities and live performances. Dive into this amazing town in Florida and get ready for a nice and relaxing vacation.
We mainly recommend that you visit Clermont if you are looking for a place where you can be active and a place where you can explore history and nature at the same time.
It’s also a great spot for families. There are multiple attractions centered around children and it’s a great opportunity for them to learn about US heritage right here in the heart of Florida.
Top Things to do in Clermont, FL
If you’re looking for things to do outside of the hustle and bustle of the city, Clermont is the perfect place to explore!
With its variety of natural, cultural, and historical attractions, as well as an impressive park system, you’ll never find yourself bored in this small town.
Without further ado, let’s jump into the best things to do in Clermont, Florida.
1. Clermont’s Historic Village Museum
What would be the best way to start exploring this amazing town than the local Historic Village Museum? And yes it’s both a Historic Village and a Museum at once.
There are multiple preserved buildings here including a school and even a train depot. You can get a feel of the atmosphere and look of a town around the 40s-50s in Florida.
To complete the experience these buildings are not only well preserved from the outside but are filled with the historically correct furniture and items.
Step inside them and take a look at how people lived back in the day and what everyday items they used. Can you spot some that are pretty much unchanged and some that are no longer in use at all?
There is even a working gramophone in the Cooper Memorial Library that let’s you play some old records.
Admission to the museum ground is generally free, but keep in mind that a donation of $5 for people over 12 is expected. This donation will go directly to the preservation and upkeep of Clermont’s Historic Village.
2. Florida Citrus Tower
Built in 1956, the Florida Citrus Tower is one of the most well-known things to do in Clermont, FL. With its 226 feet height, it offers unparalleled views of the surrounding Lake County.
Due to the height, it can be seen from multiple parts of the town just like a guardian watching over the city.
The visit is worth it not just for the views. As the name suggests the tower is a homage to the citrus industry of the area.
There is a museum downstairs where you can learn more about the construction and the citrus industry. Of course, it’s complemented by a gift shop where you can grab some cool memorabilia to take home.
3. President’s Hall of Fame
The President’s Hall of Fame might be one of the most famous attractions in Clermont, FL. As the name suggests. it’s a museum dedicated to every single president of the United States.
Awaiting visitors for more than 60 years the President’s Hall of Fame is a great thing to do even today. The Hall of Fame was originally intended to be a wax museum just like Madame Tussauds.
However, over the years the museum expanded its collection to take up the shape it is today. Of course, you still have wax figures of the presidents but there is so much more to explore. You will be able to see various memorabilia from the presidents and even a robotic version of Abraham Lincoln.
If that’s not enough there are tons of other original documents or artifacts recovered from the White House. Speaking of the White House, there is even a miniature version of the White House waiting for you to explore.
All the history and heritage make the President’s Hall of Fame one of the best family things to do in Clermont, FL. Don’t skip this one whenever you are visiting.
4. Historic Downtown Clermont
If you find yourself in Clermont, Florida, be sure to carve out some time to explore downtown. You’ll be charmed by the quaint shops and restaurants, and you’ll be missing out on some of the best the town has to offer.
During summertime, downtown Clermont is usually filled with life. Live performances, different festivals, and local events are always happening to keep people busy.
It’s a great place to meet the locals and maybe catch a performance by a local artist. It’s also a great place if you want to support local restaurants and small businesses as there are multiple locally owned stores and eateries around the downtown area.
If you ever feel like going out in the evening the downtown area in Clermont is a great place to do it. There is usually something happening and even if not there are superb restaurants or bars where you can spend a nice evening.
5. Showcase of Citrus
The Showcase of Citrus is a family-run, 2,500-acre farm that has been growing more than 50 different citrus types since 1989.
Visitors may enjoy outdoor adventure and relaxation at the farm. There is something for everyone of all ages, including U-pick citrus, monster truck excursions across the ranch, gem mining in an actual sluice box, and just taking a quiet picnic.
The Showcase of Citrus is a hallmark attraction in Clermont, FL and you should not miss it. If you are with family then you can easily spend hours on the ranch while being outdoors and enjoying the different activities.
If that is all not enough they also feature the World’s Largest 4×4 Monster Truck. It’s quite a sight to see and great fun to ride.
6. Sky Zone Clermont Trampoline Park
Families rejoice! Do you want an activity in Clermont that will guarantee exhausted kids who will sleep like babies in the evening?
Well, the Sky Zone Clermont Trampoline Park is just for you then. This family things to do in Clermont, FL is a great way to spend a couple of hours.
Although a Trampoline Park might sound childish it’s also a good workout. We suggest that even you try out the park. You will be surprised just how much fun it is.
The trampoline park boasts an incredible 17 attractions. They are starting from the beginner level all the way to attractions for the more advanced jumpers.
Do you like agility tracks? Then it’s your time to shine as the park is full of challenges that will test your agility and skills.
7. Magical Jumpers
Do you have smaller children who are not yet old enough for trampolines? Then Magical Jumpers is the place for you. It’s all about inflatable bouncy castles here.
Although this place is primarily an inflatable castle rental for events they do have a nice showcase area with a small bar.
The kids can go and try out the different castles on display while you can have a nice coffee and some snacks.
It’s great fun with small children. Most of the castles are for kids over 3 while there is a very limited selection for kids under 3 years old.
8. Clermont Bowling Center
We have one more great family day out thing to do in Clermont, FL in the form of bowling. Of course, we understand that many families have different opinions about bowling. Some like it and some hate it with passion.
If you are such a family or group of friends that like bowling then don’t skip on the Clermont Bowling Center. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon.
We like bowling because it’s the sort of competition that takes time and lets you talk while also playing to see who is the winner.
9. Explore the Lakes of Clermont with Boats
The natural area around Clermont is beautiful and it warrants some exploration. There are multiple walking trails that you can check out but we’ll only mention them a bit later.
First, we suggest that you look into boating near Clermont. There is a company that offers boat exploration of some of the lakes in the area.
The boat routes will take you through amazing scenery and you’ll get a chance to see some wildlife as well if you keep your eyes open.
You are in Florida after all. Would it really be a Florida vacation without some boating in marshlands included?
10. Go to the beach
In case you are visiting Clermont, Florida during the summer then you might be longing for some well-deserved beach days.
If you don’t want to drive a lot then there is a local beach as well. It’s at Waterfront Park and it’s a lake beach. Okay, we must admit, it’s not like the ocean beaches but it’s a great place to cool down quickly.
If you don’t mind driving then you have even more options. You can check out places like Daytona beach which is famous in its own right. For more info check out our guide on the beaches near Clermont, FL.
11. Go Golfing near Clermont
Florida in general is a great place for golf fanatics and Clermont is no different. There are multiple courses near the town that you can visit and do some lighthearted (or some competitive if you wish) golfing.
One of the best golf courses near Clermont is The Club at Bella Collina. It’s a beautiful 18-hole golf course but it’s actually pretty limited in terms of entry. Non-club members are only allowed for certain periods.
Your best chance if you want to play at Bella Collina is to stay at the club and then you will be allowed to play.
There are also other options like Green Valley Country Club, Kings Ridge Golf Club, or Swiss Fairways Golf Course. As you can see your options are quite wide and varied.
If you want to go golfing in Clermont you will be able to spend each day at a different course and still have some left to explore.
MORE: The 10 Best Things to do in Homosassa, FL
12. Lake Minneola
Lake Minneola is the big lake just north of Clermont. With the next few things to do in Clermont, FL we’ll be heading into nature exploration and Lake Minneola is the perfect place to start.
You don’t have to leave town to enjoy the beauty of the lake yet you have some nice trails to walk and even some parks to check out.
One great example of a lakeside park is Champions Splash Park which is a great place for families. It’s like a miniature water park that the kids will absolutely love on a warm summer day.
In order to explore the lake just follow the walking trail next to it. You will pass by many points of interest like lookout areas and even a big swing hanging from a tree.
Multiple rest areas and even playgrounds are available here. It’s a great place to walk around without getting out of town.
13. Lake Louisa State Park
If you love spending time outdoors, then you’ll adore a natural theme park. With plenty of activities to keep you busy, you’ll never get bored here.
The natural theme park of Lake Louisa State Park is a stunning showcase of Florida wildlife, including deer, bobcats, gopher tortoises, fox squirrels, and birds like bald eagles and osprey.
The park’s diverse ecosystem is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, and its tranquil setting is perfect for a day of relaxation and exploration.
The three major lakes at the park, Louisa, Hammond, and Dixie, are perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, getting observers off their idle mode and into active mode!
Bicycling is also popular on the park’s seven miles of paved roads over rolling hills and on the 20 miles of unpaved multi-use trails.
14. Lake Apopka North Shore
A genuine gem in the rough, the Lake Apopka North Shore. This region has been restored into a wildlife sanctuary and a gem for the general public’s recreational activities through the restoration of old muck farms.
Lake Apopka is one of the state’s most beautiful lakes and is fed by a natural spring, as well as rainfall and stormwater runoff.
The more than 20-mile Lake Apopka Loop Trail circles the area along the lake’s border, offering options for biking and hiking.
The North Shore property is perfect for a nature lover’s getaway, with a marked white trail suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding on Clay Island.
There are a total of four observation towers offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area on this trail.
15. Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards
Lakeridge Winery is open seven days a week for free tours and wine tastings. The knowledgeable staff will guide you through a tour of the vineyard and explain the wine-making process.
You’ll then have the opportunity to sample some of some award-winning wines that span the spectrum from dry to sweet, including sparkling varieties.
The tour of the winery and the wine tasting will last approximately 45 minutes. It’s a great activity when you are in Clermont and want to sample some fine wine.
Where to eat in Clermont, Florida?
Now that you know all the best things to do in Clermont, FL it’s time to give you some more local tips for a perfect time. First off are our favorite places to eat in Clermont.
1. Fat Chef Authentic Jamaican Cuisine
If you like Caribbean cuisine then the Fat Chef Authentic Jamaican Cuisine will be right up your valley. We’ve been to many Jamaican and Caribbean restaurants all over the state but this one is definitely among the best.
The cook at Fat Chef understands Jamaican Cuisine very well and provides all guests with delicious dishes.
You know the food is authentic when Jamaicans seek out this place to eat some savory home dishes. It’s a low-key simple restaurant with amazing prices and tasty meals.
2. Clermont Fish House
The Clermont Fish House is a British-style Fish & Chips restaurant. It’s fast food at its best. It’s one of those rare occasions where you look at the menu and feel like you are transported all the way to Great Britain.
Really, the menu is filled with items known from British Pubs. It might be a fish house in name but don’t expect a fancy seafood restaurant.
What you have instead is great quality fish and chips and some other British classics to take home. A truly great fast food place in Clermont.
3. Suncreek Brewery
Finally on our list is a nice place if you want to have an evening out. Suncreek Brewery has some amazing local beer and great food to accompany it.
There is always a great selection on tap for you to try and sample. If you are into beer then you’ll love the local brews.
Not only do they have some great food but the building they are located in is also filled with some nice restaurants. You can order takeaway at any of those places and eat at Suncreek Brewery while you enjoy some quality beer.
Where to stay in Clermont, FL?
Next up are our favorite places to stay in Clermont. Your hotel is usually your base on a holiday so we always love to be nice and comfortable.
1. Clermont Cabanas
Looking for a peaceful vacation rental right on beautiful Lake Minneola? Look no further than the Clermont Cabanas!
These two 450-square-foot units offer a full bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and living area, everything you need to relax and enjoy your time away.
This lovely hotel is situated in the heart of Downtown Clermont, just a short stroll from wonderful restaurants and charming shops.
We loved to wake up and look out to the lake each morning and we especially loved that we had a full little home to ourselves.
The Cabanas are great and if they have available spots they are our prime choice for a Clermont stay. However, as there are only two buildings, they tend to be full most of the time.
2. Hampton Inn & Suites Clermont
The Hampton Inn & Suites Clermont is a classic hotel. It’s part of the Hilton chain and it offers fully equipped rooms.
There is an outside pool for swimming which is super nice during the warm months. The hotel is located just off the highway making it an excellent choice if you want to explore the area by car.
You can explore many Orlando attractions from this hotel due to the great location.
We liked staying at Hampton Inn & Suites Clermont however it’s a normal hotel. If you’ve been to one you know what to expect in the next one.
A good choice for Clermont, but don’t expect anything special.
3. Lake Minneola Inn
Finally, we have Lake Minneola Inn which is another property overlooking the water. The Inn is situated on stunning lakefront property with some of the most beautiful sunsets in all of Lake County.
You can find a great place to eat right in the backyard at the Tiki Bar & Grill – it’s the perfect spot to watch the sun go down!
The rooms at the hotel are simple but they are well equipped and have a homely charm. Lake Minneola Inn is another good choice when visiting Clermont.
Things to do in Clermont, FL – FAQ
Yes, Clermont is a great place to visit. There are many things to do in and out of town. It’s recommended for people who like an active vacation.
Yes! There are multiple museums, nature trails, and family attractions in Clermont to keep you all occupied.