Ride and Dine with Olde Mount Dora Carriage Co. - Orlando

Ride and Dine with Olde Mount Dora Carriage Co.

Orlandoeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1.5–2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required

Overview

Experience historic Mount Dora’s charm on a cozy horse-drawn carriage ride paired with a lakeside dinner. Discover why the Olde Mount Dora Carriage Company's Ride and Dine is a must-do for families, couples, and visitors alike.

Details

Mount Dora, Florida, offers a rare blend of small-town charm and lakeside scenery, making it a standout stop for visitors wanting a slower, scenic taste of Central Florida’s outdoor appeal. The Olde Mount Dora Carriage Company adds an elegant twist to touring this historic city by offering its signature Ride and Dine experience—combining an inviting carriage ride with a memorable meal. Far from ordinary, this outing invites you to take in the quiet streets and vintage architecture of downtown Mount Dora, where the timeless feel of horse-drawn travel contrasts with the backdrop of modern eateries and colorful local shops.

What sets this company apart is its strong focus on personalized, immersive service. Rides glide past notable landmarks and through charming neighborhoods, providing guests with stories of the city’s origins and nods to its community spirit. Destinations like Pisces Rising, known for its deck-side dining overlooking Lake Dora’s shimmering surface at sunset, create a perfect start or finish to the journey.

Reviewers often highlight the genuine hospitality extended by drivers like Colleen and Laurie, who go beyond just guiding the ride, capturing photos, accommodating dietary preferences, and enhancing the atmosphere with festive touches such as Christmas lights or celebratory Prosecco. Whether it’s a family outing with young children, a romantic date night, or a special occasion like a proposal, the carriage’s comfort and charm make for lasting memories.

In a region better known for theme parks and beaches, Olde Mount Dora Carriage Company offers a distinct chance to slow down, reacquaint yourself with Florida’s quieter side, and soak up a local flavor punctuated by history, hospitality, and natural lake views. It’s an easy-to-access, low-impact way to experience a small-town vibe with a touch of sophistication and fun.

Adventure Tips

Book Ahead for Dining Preferences

Secure your dining spot early, especially if you want a deck-side table at Pisces Rising to catch the sunset.

Dress for Comfort and Weather

Wear layered clothing and bring a jacket or blanket for cooler evenings as carriage rides are open-air and can get chilly.

Arrive Early to Familiarize Yourself

Arriving at the meeting point a few minutes before your ride helps ensure a smooth start and time for last-minute questions.

Capture Memories but Stay Seated

Bring a camera or smartphone for photos, but always remain seated and safely enjoy the ride.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • The Renningers Antique Market just outside downtown
  • Lakeside Park, a peaceful spot for picnics and birdwatching

Wildlife

  • Great herons near Lake Dora
  • Colorful ibis frequenting local wetlands

History

Mount Dora's downtown developed in the late 19th century as a winter retreat for wealthy Northerners, giving it distinct Victorian-style buildings.

Conservation

Local efforts prioritize preserving Lake Dora’s water quality and maintaining green spaces amid growing tourism pressures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour around sunset
Twilight with city lights
Early morning for quiet streets

Best Viewpoints

  • Pisces Rising deck overlooking Lake Dora
  • Historic Donnelly Street with vintage facades
  • Carriage during illuminated evening rides

What to Photograph

Historic downtown architecture
Lakeside sunsets
Horse-drawn carriages with festive lighting

Recommended Gear

Light Jacket or Blanket

Essential

Keeps you warm during cooler evenings and adds comfort for the open-air ride.

fall specific

Camera or Smartphone

Essential

Capture intimate moments and scenic views along the route.

Comfortable Footwear

Great for walking around before or after the ride in Mount Dora’s historic district.

Sun Protection

Essential

Hat and sunscreen protect against sun exposure during daytime dining or waiting times.

summer specific

Reviews