Top 14 Must-Do Activities in Minneola, Florida

This continually growing city in Central Florida is located on the eastern shore of the lake that bears its name. Lake Minneola is part of the Clermont Chain of Lakes, which extends down to Lake Louisa, home to a captivating state park worth visiting.

Until the latter half of the 20th century, much of the landscape consisted of citrus groves. Notably, the Minneola tangelo is named after this location.

Just a minute away, in Clermont, one can ascend the 226-foot Florida Citrus Tower, a testament to this agricultural heritage. 

Currently, Minneola is a tranquil community, known for its stunning sunsets. At the city’s periphery, you will discover a large vineyard, picturesque nature areas, and Clermont’s bustling downtown along with its scenic lakefront park.

1. Lake Minneola

Minneola is situated on the eastern shore of its namesake lake, although the public access points are located just across the boundary in Clermont.

Nonetheless, the waterfront views along S Lakeshore Drive remain captivating. Adorned with palm trees and ancient live oaks draped in Spanish moss, this residential road is exceptionally picturesque. 

Along the lakeshore lies a series of charming docks and small beaches, all private yet delightful to admire as you pass by. The optimal time for a drive is undoubtedly late afternoon when the sun casts its warm glow over these tea-colored waters. 

The South Lake Trail meanders along the lakeshore in Minneola, while the Clermont Boat Ramp and Waterfront Park are only moments away.

2. Florida Citrus Tower

Source: Noah Densmore / shutterstock

Presently, as many are likely aware, Central Florida stands as one of the most prominent tourist destinations globally. However, this was not always the case, and nearby, one can explore one of the initial attractions that brought recognition to the region. 

The Florida Citrus Tower, constructed in 1956 and rising 226 feet above what was then a vast expanse of orange groves, recalls an era when the citrus industry dominated this region. 

The tower’s exhibits honor the citrus cultivation legacy, which has since diminished in this area. After ascending to the observation deck via an air-conditioned elevator, visitors can survey a now diverse landscape. 

Among the expansive lakes lie burgeoning cities, with downtown Orlando visible 20 miles to the east.

3. South Lake Trail

An aspect worthy of recognition about Minneola is how much of Central Florida can be accessed from here without the necessity of a vehicle. 

This is achievable via the 12.5-mile South Lake Trail, which connects to the Orange County West Orange Trail at Killarney Station. Consequently, it is possible to reach places such as Winter Garden within 45 minutes from Minneola.

The South Trail extends from Killarney Station westward to Groveland. Notably, it provides an exceptional opportunity to appreciate Lake Minneola, gracefully curving around the southern shore and passing through downtown Clermont. 

The most accessible local entry point is the lush Minneola Trailhead Park, which will be described further below.

4. Minneola Trailhead Park

The entry point to the South Lake Trail in Minneola is an exquisite recreational area. 

Minneola Trailhead Park spans seven acres and features a ballfield, basketball court, a spur/bike trail, and a workout area for adults. I particularly appreciated the charming shelter along the trail, designed to resemble a railroad depot. 

Whether cycling, taking children to the playground, or enjoying a family picnic, the park offers ample tree cover in addition to open grassy areas suitable for various games.

A well-appointed dog park is also available, featuring water stations and specific areas for both small and larger dogs.

5. Lake Louisa State Park

Source: SR Productions / shutterstock

This state park provides entry into the Central Florida wilderness and is merely a short drive south. Lake Louisa State Park consists of ten distinct lakes interconnected by picturesque creeks and wetlands. 

Encompassing over 4,300 acres, the park hosts nearly a dozen different ecosystems, ranging from former citrus groves to upland mixed forests and hydric hammocks featuring some impressive bald cypress trees.

If there is a primary way to appreciate the park, it is on the water through kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding around the three principal lakes.

On land, there are over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails, along with 16 miles designated for horseback riding, which is a prominent activity in the park. 

Moreover, Lake Louisa State Park is an outstanding camping destination, offering options ranging from cabins to equestrian camping with paddocks.

6. Lake Minneola Inn and Tiki Bar & Grill

Source: Lake Minneola Inn/ the Tiki Bar & Grill / Facebook

For a casual dining experience or a place to enjoy a drink while watching the sunset, the Tiki Bar & Grill at Lake Minneola Inn is my recommendation. 

Although this waterfront restaurant is a relatively recent addition, the historic inn on South Main Avenue has operated for over a century.

Positioned among mature live oaks on Lake Minneola’s picturesque eastern shore, it offers visitors a glimpse of Old Florida. Nestled by the water, the Tiki Bar & Grill embraces a relaxed Key West atmosphere, serving award-winning burgers and signature golden tater tots. 

Remain to witness the sunset and enjoy the ambiance created by the tiki torches lining the dock.

7. Green Mountain Scenic Overlook

Source: kellyv / Flickr

Minneola also partially borders the fourth-largest lake in Florida, Lake Apopka, which has undergone significant ecological recovery after being deemed dead in the 20th century due to agricultural runoff. 

Transformations began when the entire northern shore was protected as a preserve, enabling the wetlands to rejuvenate. More than 360 bird species have been observed here, as well as otters, bobcats, and, undoubtedly, numerous alligators. 

Visitors can access a looping trail along the northern shore at this scenic overlook, where an observation tower offers a pleasing view of the lake. 

At 132 feet, the tower is notably high for Florida, although winter provides the best visibility, as ample foliage obstructed my view during my summer visit.

8. Waterfront Park, Clermont

The nearest public park located on Lake Minneola is Clermont’s Waterfront Park, just a couple of minutes away. Waterfront Park is integrated into the South Lake Trail and functions as a venue for a weekly array of outdoor events in Clermont.

These events feature regattas, various triathlons, and the annual Pig-on-the-Pond festival held every October. Here, visitors will find a sandy beach with a designated swimming area open during the summer, in addition to a fishing dock, basketball court, and a row of picnic pavilions.

A seasonal attraction at Waterfront Park is the splash pad, operational from spring break through October, though the specific opening days may vary. During my visit with my family, there was a nominal entry fee of $2.

9. Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards

A mere short drive from Minneola on US 27 will lead you to a 127-acre wine estate. Florida’s primary wine grape is the native Muscadine, and Lakeridge cultivates three varieties of this grape, alongside other varieties such as Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

This expansive operation offers complimentary public tours seven days a week, which include a guided walking tour and an audiovisual presentation. Visitors can sample various wines and explore the extensive shop featuring wines and local gourmet goods.

My preferred time to visit is on weekends, when guests can relax on the vineyard green, enjoying live music, excellent wine, and delectable food.

10. Presidents Hall of Fame

In 1964, Jack Toole, one of the individuals behind the Florida Citrus Tower, launched another tourist attraction next door. 

This attraction, initially named the House of Presidents, is a cherished wax museum depicting every US President up to Lyndon B. Johnson, who was in office at the time the museum opened.

After the attraction changed ownership in the 1970s, it became home to an extraordinary, meticulously detailed scale model of the White House. This model has traveled across the nation and continues to serve as the focal point, accompanied by the wax figures of every president.

Additionally, visitors can view an impressive collection of presidential memorabilia, including correspondence, photographs, death masks, and presidential china.

11. Historic Downtown Clermont

In Minneola, only five minutes separates you from Clermont’s vibrant downtown area. Mainly along W Montrose Street, this district features a charming assortment of independent shops and eateries. 

I believe that the optimal time to visit is on a Sunday when the farmers’ market operates from 09:00 am to 2:00 pm. 

With over 40 vendors present, shoppers can find fresh produce, honey, eggs, seafood, farm-raised meats, handmade gifts, home decor, and much more.

To learn more about Clermont and Minneola, one can visit the Clermont Historic Village Museums located by the lakeshore. This site consists of a collection of relocated historic buildings with exhibitions covering themes such as WWII, faith, agriculture, domestic life, and a focus on Clermont’s first African-American residents.

12. Dreamcatcher Horse Ranch and Rescue Center

This local ranch has successfully rescued and rehabilitated over 1,000 horses since its establishment in 2006. Many of these horses are adopted into new homes, while others remain within this beautiful sanctuary.

In this spirit, the Dreamcatcher Horse Ranch and Rescue Center offers various equestrian-related experiences. By appointment, you can partake in trail rides six days a week.

Moreover, the ranch provides horseback riding lessons for individuals of all ages and skill levels. Additionally, there are ponies available for younger visitors, who can enjoy rides and grooming sessions. 

Children particularly enjoy feeding the horses and ponies, as well as meeting some of the ranch’s other animals, including donkeys, chickens, and llamas.

13. The Donut King

Source: The Donut King / Facebook

This small chain, with three locations in Central Florida, was established in Minneola in 2007. The Donut King offers a wide range of classic and innovative donut flavors, some coated with Nerds, Fruity Pebbles, or Coconut Crunch. 

Nevertheless, one cannot go wrong with traditional options, and the sour cream donuts rank among the finest I have tasted.  

In addition to an extensive selection of donuts, The Donut King provides various savory items, including sliders reminiscent of White Castle and Southern/Tex Mex specialties such as jambalaya, breakfast burritos, and gumbo, complementing their donut offerings.

14. Minneola Athletic Complex

Situated near Minneola High School is a well-equipped sports facility that accommodates a variety of activities. At the Minneola Athletic Complex, you will find five baseball/softball diamonds, along with a centrally located concession stand open during games.

Other amenities include batting cages, a t-ball field, basketball courts, three multi-use fields, volleyball courts, and tennis courts. 

If you are here for exercise, a multi-use trail encircles the complex, featuring exercise stations near the baseball fields. Additionally, there are age-specific playgrounds for children, as well as a picnic pavilion situated between the two play areas.