Mount Dora is a city in Lake County, Florida, in the hills of central Florida about 30 miles northwest of Orlando, within the Orlando–Kissimmee metropolitan area. Its population was 16,341 at the 2020 census. Founded in 1880, the city is known for its small-town Southern charm, a walkable historic downtown, and a lakeside setting overlooking Lake Dora, the namesake of the community. Mount Dora bills itself as the 'Festival City,' and the calendar reflects it. The Mount Dora Arts Festival and the Mount Dora Craft Fair are among the state's best-known annual events, drawing visitors to the downtown's antique shops, galleries, boutiques, and cafes. The historic Lakeside Inn, in operation since 1883 and considered Florida's oldest continuously operating hotel, anchors the lakefront, while one of Florida's three freshwater lighthouses adds to the town's distinctive character. Lake Dora is part of the Harris Chain of Lakes, a series of connected waterways that offers boating, fishing, paddling, and scenic cruises across the region. The city's recreation and identity are closely tied to the water, and its downtown overlooks the lake directly. The housing landscape ranges from the historic homes and bungalows near downtown to gated communities such as Stoneybrook Hills, golf-course living at the Country Club of Mount Dora, and 55-plus communities such as the Lakes of Mount Dora. Public schools are part of Lake County Schools. For residents, Mount Dora offers a blend of small-town charm, an active arts and festival scene, and lakeside recreation, all within reach of Orlando's employment and amenities. That combination keeps Mount Dora one of Central Florida's most distinctive small cities.