There is plenty of charm to this hotel and a real taste of "old Florida". And the views of Lake Dora are fantastic from the Inn. If you're looking for modern amenities though in your room, like a microwave or mini fridge, a nice-sized TV or even an enclosed toilet tank (instead of exposed plumbing) to come standard, you'll need to manage your expectations. The most modern thing in the room was the super quiet, super cooling A/C Overall we enjoyed our stay. The serving staff at The Beauclerc and Tremain's Tavern were excellent and the food was great. Seriously, portions were big, very fairly priced and even the salmon we had was perfectly cooked. And you will not find a better location within walking distance for all that the historic downtown district has to offer. Areas for improvement: - We requested a mini fridge by phone days ahead of time only to find no note for it in our reservation. I suppose we saved the $5/day charge which seems a little nickle-and-dime like in the first place, but the whole thing was handled poorly by the front desk. - The mildew around the door frame inside the closet was just plain gross and needs work. - The pool bar was not open due to staffing shortages. Would have enjoyed that. - Trying to book a boat tour through the hotel website needs even more in your face explanations that it means nothing unless you call the boat tour operator directly to confirm. Really, why bother to have it on the site otherwise.

I would never stay here again because we paid for a queen but were given a full and told they could not move us to Queen. At first they said they were "old-fashioned queen beds" so that's what size they were. The room next to us had a proper queen, they then they told us they were fully booked so there were no queens available. No partial refund was given for the difference in price. Also, the room was extremely bright with the light off because there's light shining in from street lights (no curtains), from the hallway (large gaps around the door), and the light on the air conditioner is like a flashlight shining on your face. When you turn the light off, the room is still fully lit. Our neighbors were yelling and playing musical instruments past eleven. They didn't quiet down after a noise warning, which I guess isn't the hotel's fault. That said, the common areas of the Inn are lovely and well kept. The breakfast was top-notch. In the future, I would stay somewhere else nearby but come here for the breakfast and view.

Please do not let the few bad reviews discourage you from booking a room at the Lakeside Inn in Mt. Dora! We stopped there for a one night stay on our way home by way of the Amtrak Auto Train and chose this inn based on its proximity to the train. We were so pleasantly surprised by the service, our room, the view and the excellent breakfast we had on the porch overlooking the lake. We will definitely return to Mt. Dora and stay at this inn again for a longer stay. Our room was clean, quiet and comfortable. Steven helped us book a perfect first floor room with only few stairs to accommodate my husband who recently had a knee replacement. The staff at the desk were welcoming and Chas was the perfect waiter during our delicious breakfast experience this morning. Highly recommended!!

I wish I could give the Lakeside Inn a zero star review. My husband and I had our wedding at the Lakeside Inn on 7/28/23. We live locally and loved the aesthetic beauty and convenience for family traveling. However, our bubble was burst very quickly. The planning process was a disorganized mess, which caused tons of problems the day of the event. The problems included- running out of food (causing guests to leave), all the tables being set up wrong or missing, rude staff (especially the bar staff), staff not communicating that food wasn’t gluten free and gluten sensitive people eating food with gluten, etc. When following up with the staff, the manager Sebastian was incredibly arrogant and rude saying that problems that were caused by them were our fault. Thankfully we were compensated for the trouble, but it was a very frustrating process. We were told that it would take 3-5 days. Over a week later I followed up and it wasn’t processed yet… if I hadn’t emailed to follow up would I have been paid at all??? In terms of the rooms, my sister in law’s room had bugs in the bed. DISGUSTING. My room had a broken shower drain as well. Please take my word when I say that the service at the lakeside inn is awful. Do not waste your money on this venue or inn.

The outside is quaint and very picturesque but that’s where it ends. One outlet in room and it’s next to the bathroom sink. The mattress is so old I can feel the springs. Paint coming off the doors. No water to be had in the main hotel. I was told there was a vending machine in the next building. Completely empty. Then I was told try the bar. Finally water! Also my key barely worked in the door. Had to spend several minutes each time getting into the room. Some serious maintenance needs done. I understand it was built in 1883 but none of my issues are due to that.

Beautiful historic inn in a great location so it’s walkable to everything in this beautiful town. Room was small but nicely decorated and clean. The grounds and common areas are really beautiful. The staff was very accommodating and welcoming. We had breakfast in the lively room overlooking the garden. I absolutely love the historic features and charm of the well maintained building. Will definitely stay here again.

Does anybody work at this place? Anybody? We went there for lunch on Monday. It was nearly 12 noon when we arrived. We walked inside to the main lobby (nobody there), then into an empty bar (nobody there, either). We waited at least 5 full minutes then went out to the restaurant/veranda area (nobody there, either). We sat and waited at least another 5-10 minutes before we left. Not one server or attendant to be seen anywhere! We would probably still be waiting for food (now it's Tuesday) if we had waited for a server (on Monday).

I know that you will rarely get a first class meal on Christmas Day, but the 2022 Christmas Brunch at Lakeside Inn was unforgivably bad. We had early afternoon reservations, checked-in with the Hostess and were made to wait in the Lobby until at least 30 minutes past our reserved time. They must be really busy, we thought. Nope, we finally get seated and find that the dining room is maybe 20% filled. We had a very pleasant server that was a temp hire for the day who advised us that she knew absolutely nothing about the menu. Okay, what the heck....it's Christmas. We ordered from the menu (maybe 4 choices of entree) and headed to the self-serve brunch tables. Lots of salad, fruit and bread, some shaved salmon that had been out way too long and lots of mushy fried green tomatoes. The more elegant advertised offerings, like petite Beef Wellingtons? Sorry long gone. Should have been here this morning. Dinner arrives. My wife's fish (Cod, I think) was okay, but it's hard to kill a piece of fish. My prime rib (ordered medium well) arrived as a bloody mess that looked like it had been cut with a chain saw. The bloody mess was accompanied by three whole, completely uncooked carrots and a scoop of bloody mashed potatoes that of course they dropped the meat on. Sent it back to the kitchen. Then, just as my wife was finishing her meal, they return my plate with my now tough, overcooked prime rib, complete with uncooked carrots and my pile of bloody mashed potatoes. Desert? They were long-since out of worthwhile deserts. I had a couple cookies and happily, my wife got their last slice of chocolate cake. This disaster of a meal, with one glass of wine each, tax and automatic tip totaled $231.14.

We’ve been very frequent patrons of the city of Mt. Dora for many years – since we live only about 30 miles away. The one thing we’ve never done is stay at the popular Lakeside Inn for any occasion. Just last week, my husband surprised me for my birthday this year with a one-night stay at this 100-year-old hotel that really warms everyone’s heart that’s passing thru. For the most part it’s a very beautiful, picturesque place…. Right on Lake Dora – reverting back in time that keeps the imagination running wild. Unfortunately, though, at every turn – from checking in to catching some rays at the pool – to trying dinner in their piano bar – to – the actual stay – it didn’t go as well as we would’ve expected. At check-in they presented me with a free drink voucher of my choice to claim at any bartender located on their property. So, we decided to cash it in at the bar in the pool area – when we arrived there, we were informed that they didn’t take it there. We ended up spending $26 for 2 drinks ourselves to start us off. Very disappointed at this – we relaxed in the pool area – and when we needed a couple of towels – they were out of towels. We had to hunt down an employee to replenish the towel bin. And we were told that they just don’t have many towels at this hotel and they would be out shortly. They brought them down 30 minutes later. We told the manager on duty in the lobby about our experience with the drink coupon, and she said that she would have a talk with them at the pool bar because they are supposed to honor the vouchers. She changed it to 2 free drinks and initialed it. We went into the piano bar to have dinner. We ordered the $30 Salmon with veggies and potato to split between us and a salad to split. We got the salad – ate it and waited and waited – finally the meal came out and it was cold. We sent it back and they said that they were going to make a brand-new plate for us. So, we waited – and waited – and we happen to know how long it takes to cook a small piece of salmon – that we cook all the time. Although, while we waited, we got to spend time with a tray of dirty dishes nearby that weren’t being removed at all. And after 25 minutes – we paid for the salad and got out of there and immediately left and talked to the same manager on duty and explained the next unfortunate experience we had and she apologized and said they would make it right for us, but we said no thanks, we had to eat right away and didn’t want to take the chance! We went elsewhere in the city and got taken care beautifully at Pisces Rising – a great place! With the electrical outlet not working in the bathroom of our $200/night room, or the light in the closet not working, or the bathtub pealing on the inside when I took a bath – or the vending machine that only had 2 waters in it when we arrived and they were gone by nite fall, the ice machine that was rusted on our floor – or the TV not working half a hoot, we didn’t have a very good experience as we’d hoped for but made the best of a great birthday, spending time with each other leaving all work related issues back at home and had a fabulous weekend because of just that!! Being together! They have got to get their act together if they want to be a 5 star resort – depicting the olden days!

Booked room for July 3&4 2023 in Dec 2022. Before arriving on the 3rd I called and inquired about a Lakeview room. It was available and I agreed to $300 upcharge. Upon arrival we were given keys to room on 2nd floor.. We carried our luggage up in 98 degree temp. I then opened blinds and realized we had the view of a open garage where maintenance equipment was stored. I went back down to front desk and was told that the change was not saved in computer and we could move to another room in a different building with lake view but there was no assistance available to help with the luggage. My wife and I are 78 & 80 yrs old and we were not willing to make the move alone. The room we had was next to the stairs so we heard everyone going and coming. It. had to be one of the worst rooms in the complex. The ice machine in our building down stairs was broken so we had to go to the bar to get ice. It seems to me that rooms booked 6 months would get preferred 1st floor rooms away from stairs. Bag of trash in hall all day on July 4. Room had no amenities such coffee maker fridge or microwave. Bedding was very ordinary. Very dissatisfied will not return!

The historic lakeside inn is in a great waterfront location on Lake Dora. A great place for a relaxing weekend or special event. Like many historic properties, there are issues with accessibility, but it was comfortable and great service. There is a wide variety of rooms and sizes of rooms. So be sure you know which one you will get when reserving.

We utilized Lakeside Inn for our hotel room block and wedding welcome party. As a hotel, Lakeside Inn is very dated, but charming. Some of the booking systems and age of the room provided challenges for some of the guests. In order to utilize the room block, guests had to call into the hotel directly. However, several times guests would get misinformation regarding the block or what was available. Upon check-in, several of our guests were not given the welcome bags we created despite being on the block. Additionally, several rooms had general maintenance or housekeeping challenges. As far as the welcome party, there was some sort of turnover with the event team that initially caused quite a bit of communication challenges . However, once we had the correct contact we were able to get logistics in line and create a great event. The food was amazing and the team was flexible when we needed to move inside due to weather. I’m not sure if these communication challenges would be worse planning a full wedding, but for our purposes we were able to navigate it and create a great night!

Our experience was horrible. Way overpriced for what they offer. The rooms are small and look like there 140 years old. There are no elevators. We ended up leaving and going to another hotel. They wouldn't refund our money either. This place is not recommended.

Location is perfect- everything is a walkable distance! Service- impeccable! However rooms have some room for improvement- we all know this is a pricey place- but when things are high price we expect basic needs met. Don’t get me wrong- rooms are clean, nicely furnished, functional- however some details that make it or break it didn’t function as well as we hoped. Fan was making noise all night as well as the AC- i am talking about abnormal sounds. Additionally water pressure was non-existent- barely managed to was my hair and if someone flushed a toilet i would loose all cold water and almost get burned by hot water. Overall, great place, clean, service is incredible- we had a great time, we just value functionality.

We live in the area close to the Inn and go there often. The meals served are delicious and the service is excellent. Sometimes we sit at the bar and enjoy delicious cocktails made by Trip, one of the many nice servers they have. Beautiful surroundings to relax and enjoy a good meal and company 😃

Went for a weekend. Judy at the front desk was so accommodating & friendly! Breakfast in the AM runs about $35-$40 for two. Delicious food & good service. Coffee in the lobby. Good coffee too! We stayed in the Sunset cottage. We had a porch which was so nice to sit. The hotel is very old, the oldest on FL but well maintained. Glad there was a fan above our bed, softer mattress than what I like, just wish there were hand held showers. There are no elevators. It’s a great location & you can pretty much walk everywhere as long as you don’t mind walking. Similar to St Augustine but not as touristy or as large. Very dog friendly city. We will definitely be returning to the Lakeside Inn!! So very enjoyable!!!

The Lakeside Inn is a beautiful restaurant with a stunning view of the lake. The food is always delicious, and the service is always excellent. Terry is a great asset to the Lakeside Inn, and he is one of the reasons why the restaurant is so popular. He is always looking for ways to make his customers happy. If you are looking for a dining experience that is both delicious and enjoyable, then I highly recommend the Lakeside Inn and ask for Terry as your waiter. A+

Love the charm and atmosphere. Takes you back in time. Tranquil and relaxing. I love how the room was not updated. It had the original features of that era. The staff was accommodating and friendly. Our waitress, Jennie was sweet, informative, and professional.

The staff was awesome the room was beautiful the service and the restaurant was outstanding. Brianna is the best waitress we've ever had. she is absolutely outstanding. She was friendly and sweet she made us enjoy our meal even more thank you so much for a great stay we will be back again and again.

This is a nice hotel in a great location on Lake Dora, right in town. The large grounds are beautiful with great views. Staff was attentive and friendly. This is purported to be the oldest continuously operating hotel in Florida, built in the 1880’s, which gives it a quaint feel, but also means the rooms lack some modern amenities. Our room was good sized and clean. Bathroom could use an update but it was fine for us. We ate in town so didn’t sample the hotel food, but they have a nice looking bar and dining options inside and outside. Boat tour of Lake Dora leaves from the hotel waterfront, which we enjoyed.

Front desk check in Lovely. Trip,bartender, at bar busy with his personal matters... But the dog friendly Sunset building was the reason for my score. Would go back again.

Such a beautiful property! The rooms are clean and have everything you need. I want to say a special thank you to Jordan at the front desk, who is the definition of above and beyond. She was so kind and welcoming and answered all of my questions. She even offered to hold my luggage in the back office until I was able to check in! I hope to stay here again one day.

This is a beautiful old hotel that is well preserved and kept up very nicely. The grounds are lovely, there is a pool next to Lake Dora. I didn't stay there but, would like to do so someday. We met there to participate in a Volksmarch walk with a group of about 15 people. The hotel is within walking distance of downtown Mt. Dora which is a quaint town with restaurants, gift shops and it is fun to walk around and enjoy the area.

We had an upstairs queen room in the main building. We could easily imagine life in simpler times. It was a great experience enjoying the authentic atmosphere. The incredible large historic windows that gave a relaxing view of Lake Dora from our room offered wonderful a sunny atmosphere. Although most rooms were occupied our room was very clean ,quiet and comfortable. . We were there during the week and had wonderful walks on the boardwalk and through the town. There was amazing places to eat and to explore the local shops. The staff was very helpful and accommodating.

This hotel had better days. My room had a musty smell, and the medicine cabinet had termites. The staff was very friendly and friendly. The bathroom in the main building was in very poor condition. No dirty but old. The location is perfect, and the free parking is a plus. The gift ($20.00) certificate for the bar or the restaurant was a great compliment.

I guess you need to understand that this place is old. Like 140 years old. Even the "new" parts are about 100 years old. So the bathroom toilets and sinks are all low to the ground, they even have medicine cabinets, and you use old-fashioned keys to get into your room. There are not a lot of electrical outlets in the rooms. Stuff like that. So, with the context in place, this is a really nice hotel in a cool little town. It is a great location, with a gorgeous view of Lake Dore from the hotel's porch, or from the pool, or the small beach. The huge live oaks are draped with Spanish moss, and the sunsets are spectacular. You park your car and don't need to get into it again, as the shops and restaurants and town square are all within an easy walk. The town is perched on a hill (yes, they have them in this part of Florida), and has its own history. So, yeah, the hotel shows its age (in a good way), and could be disappointing if you were expecting something with more modern facilities. But my wife and I loved it and will be back. Oh, and the Christmas lights in and around the town are not to be missed.

This place is so nice! Very pretty landscaping, the room was clean and smelled good, the service was nice and overall a great experience. Loved that it had ample parking and was within walking distance of all the restaurants and shops downtown. Only bummer was no mini fridge in the room to help with leftovers from all the delicious restaurants!

They say Historic, I say Old and Tired and overpriced. The room was fair at best. It wasn't dirty but it also wasn't appealing. King sized bed with 1 nightstand and lamp. The shower water ran hot and cool. It was like a dorm room. After ordering, the wait for both dinner and breakfast was over an hour. It has not been kept up. On the plus side the staff was very friendly and helpful. I wouldn't recommend it.

The inn was located right on the water . It has an incredible view of the sunsets and western sky! Walking distance to downtown Mt. Dora with shops and dining! The history of the inn is fascinating and the lobby is full of memories of the past! You can enjoy breakfast on the porch with A beautiful view of the lawn and lake beyond! The staff was friendly and helpful with lots of charm. The pool is huge and there are plenty of chairs for all. They have pontoon boats right there on the property for a sunset cruise!

Extremely slow service at the only restaurant on site. Not sure why because there was never more than 3 parties in the place at a time. Luckily the food was very tasty. The beef in wine sauce was delicious but I'm still puzzled as to why it was on the menu as an appetizer. Prices high but what isn't right now right? The grounds are gorgeous but the rooms lack amenities such as a mini fridge and no ice maker anywhere. Great place for a long weekend because all of downtown is within walking distance with neat shops, restaurants and even a museum of modernism. I would stay elsewhere if I'm in the area again.

This is a beautifully historic place and a lovely location. It’s worth coming to just to walk around and look at some of the history. However we were really disappointed when we came for lunch recently. We were celebrating a family event and made reservations in advance. We had requested to be able to come early to decorate one of the chairs. When we got there they said we couldn’t go in the room because there was another group! It was a large room and every table was empty except that one! I let them know we had called ahead to make sure I could be there early, so they let me go in the room and decorate. When everyone arrived we sat down to an absolutely beautiful table setting with a lovely view. However it took over an hour for the food to come. The waitress could have used some polish, it’s not really appropriate to talk about your personal life constantly and refer to guests in personal terms like “hun” etc. as if you’re in a Denny’s. We were the only two tables with people in the entire dining room. Yes there were a few people eating out on the porch but certainly no reason to be that slow. Once we received the food it was passable but mine was barely warm. I would really like to come back and try it again because it’s such a beautiful setting. Hopefully they were just having a bad day.

Wonderful location, outstanding service! Everyone from the moment of our check-in to lunch after we checked out was attentive and friendly. It is a historic building, so you will obviously "feel" the age of everything but that's precisely the charm of the hotel. If they modernized it all to our current standards, it would lose its authenticity. Our room was clean and comfortable. We highly recommend this gem for a journey back in time in a serene setting.