Leesburg Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to eat, stay, and shop in Leesburg. Read our travel guide to plan your trip today!


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Leesburg, Florida

Leesburg is a vibrant city located in Lake County, Florida, known for its picturesque views, natural attractions, outdoor activities, and rich history. With its year-round sunshine, exciting culture, and welcoming locals, Leesburg is a perfect destination for families, couples, and solo travelers. This comprehensive travel guide will provide you with everything you need to know to plan your trip to Leesburg, Florida.

Introduction to Leesburg

Leesburg, Florida, is a beautiful city nestled in the heart of Lake County, situated between Ocala and Orlando. It is known for its lakefront views, relaxing nature trails, and outdoor recreational activities. Leesburg has a rich heritage, which reflects on the community through its museums, historic houses, and parks. Moreover, it’s an ideal destination for tourists who want to get away from the city’s hustle and bustle and unwind in a serene environment.

List of Places to Visit in Leesburg

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Leesburg has a rich history, and there are many places to visit that showcase it. Here are some of the top museums and historical places to visit in Leesburg:

  • The Leesburg Heritage Museum: It is an excellent place to visit for those who want to learn about the city’s history. The museum exhibits both permanent and rotating exhibits on the history and culture of the town.
  • Donnelly House: It’s a historical landmark house owned by the Leesburg Heritage Society, offers tours and events, and is a beautiful example of late-Victorian architecture.
  • Mote-Morris House: Built in 1892, it represents Florida Vernacular architectural style and displays the authentic lifestyle of the late 19th century.

Natural Attractions of Leesburg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Leesburg’s natural attractions offer plenty of outdoor activities and scenic views for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the top natural attractions of Leesburg:

  • Venetian Gardens Park: This 11-acre park is located on the shores of Lake Harris and offers breathtaking views and a variety of recreational opportunities like fishing, boating, picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking trails.
  • Lake Griffin State Park: It’s a 620-acre state park is an ideal spot for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and bird-watching.
  • Silver Springs State Park: It features the famous glass-bottom boat tours and a variety of water sports activities like kayaking, paddleboats, and canoeing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Leesburg

Leesburg is a paradise for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the top hiking and biking routes of Leesburg:

  • The Lake Griffin State Park Trail: A 1.9-mile scenic trail that’s perfect for hikers and beginner bikers.
  • Emmauel-Teagarden Trail: A 4 mile paved trail originating at the Leesburg Airport and winds through scenic landscapes.
  • Hickory Point Recreational Area: It features 12 miles of marked trails perfect for biking, hiking or equestrian activities.

Best Things to Do in Leesburg: Activities and Tours

Leesburg has plenty of activities and tours that cater to the tastes of all kinds of travelers. Here are a few of them:

  • Take a scenic boat tour on Harris Chain of Lakes.
  • Visit the outskirts of city for thrilling and refreshing zipline adventure, TreeHoppers Aerial Adventure Park.
  • Go on a hot air balloon ride to take in the aerial views of the city and its surrounding areas.
  • Attend major events like Leesburg Bikefest, annual bird watching festival, and Christmas Stroll.

Week-Long Itinerary for Leesburg

A week-long itinerary in Leesburg can be packed with outdoor activities, cultural events, and relaxing moments. Here’s a recommended itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival, visit the Leesburg Heritage Museum and the Donnelly House Day 2: Spend the day at Venetian Gardens and explore Lake Harris via boat tour Day 3: Visit the Mote-Morris House and embrace the Florida Vernacular heritage Day 4: Hike the Emmauel-Teagarden Trail and have a picnic at the park Day 5: Paddle along Ocklawaha River while bird watching Day 6: Go for a hot air balloon ride, then unwind at Ruby Street Grille Day 7: Shop some souvenirs and local products on Main Street, head to nearby towns like Mount Dora and Tavares

Food and Drink Scene of Leesburg

Leesburg’s food and drink scene boasts a mix of international cuisine, local delicacies, and farm-to-table restaurants. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried Gator Tail: A classic southern delicacy made from alligator.
  • The Cuban Sandwich: A Leesburg’s take on the Cuban sandwich with authentic flavors.
  • Seafood Platter: A Leesburg’s fresh seafood spread with shrimps, calamari, and mahi-mahi.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: Leesburg hosts various craft breweries such as the Great Chicago Fire Brewery and Ramshackle Brew House, offering a wide variety of beer selections.
  • Citrus-Squeezed Cocktails: Leesburg is known for its orange groves and offers various citrus-infused refreshing drinks.

Where to Stay in Leesburg: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Leesburg offers accommodations that cater to the needs of all types of travelers, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels and guesthouses. Here are a few options:

  • Resort on Lake Harris - A luxury retreat with a private beach, outdoor pool, and spa treatment.
  • Microtel Inn and Suites: A mid-range hotel with modern amenities and friendly staff.
  • Lakefront Goethe Home & Guest Suite: A lakeside home with a private room and bathroom.

What to Buy in Leesburg: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Leesburg offers plenty of options for shopping, from vibrant antique stores to artsy boutiques and fresh farm markets. Here are a few souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Orange and Citrus-based products: You can take home many locally produced orange jam, marmalade or juice products
  • Vintage antiques: Shop rare historical antiques and collectibles on Main Street.
  • Handcrafted gifts: Pick up some crafty gifts at local artisan markets like Leesburg Art Festival.

Local Culture and Customs of Leesburg

Leesburg’s culture and customs revolve around nature and leisurely pastimes. Its lakeside ambiance and friendly people reflect a relaxed lifestyle where people engage in water activities, visit museums, and enjoy outdoor festivals.

Best Time to Visit Leesburg

The best time to visit Leesburg is between September to November and February to April when the weather is mild and pleasant. The temperature can be hot and humid in summer and chilly in winters. Summer is also the time of hurricane season - it should be checked for updates before traveling.

Do’s and Don’ts of Leesburg

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions.
  • Take precautions when swimming in freshwater lakes.
  • Visit museums and historical landmarks to learn about the history of the city.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public places or during outdoor activities.
  • Approach wildlife such as alligators.
  • Drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Leesburg

Leesburg is overall a safe city, however, tourists are always advised to take basic tourist safety measures.

Health in Leesburg

Leesburg is surrounded by natural lakes, making it prone to mosquito and insect bites. It is recommended to take precautions and use repellents while exploring outdoor activities.

Getting to Leesburg: Transportation Options and Logistics

The city is easily accessible by road, air, and water transport. Some of the transportation options and logistic details are:

Airports Near Leesburg

The Orlando International Airport is the nearest major international airport, located approximately 53 miles from the city.

Bus Station Near Leesburg

The Greyhound Bus Station in Wildwood, Florida, is the nearest station, located about 12 miles from the city.

Other Options

Local taxis and rental cars are easily available to explore the city and its neighboring areas.

How to Get Around in Leesburg

The best way to get around the city is by car rental, biking, or using the public transportation system, LYNX.

Where to Go Next from Leesburg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Leesburg is located conveniently between several top Florida destinations worth a visit. Here are a few nearby destinations:

  • Mount Dora: A charming town known for its antique shops, galleries, and outdoors activities is a short 20-minute drive away from Leesburg.
  • Ocala: Located approximately 44 miles away from Leesburg, it is a famous horse-breeding capital of the world with beautiful natural parks and ranches.
  • Orlando: Located about an hour’s drive to the south, is notable for its theme parks, cultural centers, and museums.

Conclusion

Leesburg is a destination that offers plenty of outdoor adventure activities, cultural landmarks, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a solo retreat, Leesburg is an excellent place to visit. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your Leesburg trip and explore everything that the city has to offer.