Friday, March 28, 2008

Top 8 Tips for the Antique Boat Show

We ordered up some perfect weather for this weekend's boat show ... sunny with highs in the low 80's. Should be a fabulous time out on the water. Here are some tips to make the most of your weekend at the Antique Boat Show:



1) The Antique Boat Festival is being held in TAVARES this year at Wooten Park. There will be a water taxi operated by Lake County Waterways that you can catch to take you from the shopping, restaurants & lodging in Mount Dora to the boat show in Tavares. I can't think of a better way to experience the boat show then to arrive by boat! The water taxi is located at the end of 4th Avenue next to the Mount Dora Yacht Club.

2) If you decide to drive to the boat festival, Lake Shore Drive will be the most scenic route from Mount Dora. If you're not a local, Lake Shore Drive can be easily missed, so look carefully. If you are driving on 5th Avenue/Old 441, the turn for Lake Shore Drive will be immediately on your left after curving around the lake. If you pass the Dairy Queen, you've missed it. Just take a left at the light and head to Tavares on Old 441.

3) Bring cash. As the boat show is growing and becoming bigger & better ... there is now a small admission charge of $5. Definitely worth it to see this museum on water.

4) This may sound kind of obvious, but don't forget your sunscreen! Sometimes we think, "oh, I won't be outside for that long ... I'll find some shade." Believe me, you're going to be having a fabulous time and will not even realize how much sun you're getting. In case you forgot to pack it, I recommend going to either Noni Home & Bath or Walk In The Woods to get sunscreen. They even have some eco-friendly options.

5) Along that same thought, remember to bring your hat and sunglasses. The glare from the water can be bright and you'll see a lot more detail if you're not squinting. If you forgot your hat, I recommend Whispering Winds on Donnelly Street. They have a collection of hats to choose from and a unique water bottle holder so you can string your H2O around your shoulder for convenience.

6) If you are looking for a quick drink to cool off, Mount Dora has several quaint coffee houses that can quench your thirst with an iced coffee or smoothie. They are: 5th Ave Cafe, One Flight Up, Village Coffee Pot & Mount Dora Coffee House. If you're looking for a bit of a stronger drink, then check out the bar and deck at Pisces Rising where you can order up a cold one and watch the sun set on the lake.

7) If you end up dropping your cell phone in the water ... borrow your friend's phone. Sorry, but I can't help you there. BUT, if you end up getting your shoes wet, Donnelly Euro Footwear is having a trunk show and shoe sale this weekend. Check it out.

8) HAVE FUN! Email us your pictures and comments about the show!

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