Leesburg Heritage Museum
Located in a historic building in downtown Leesburg, the Leesburg Heritage Museum tells the story of this small locale via pictures, artifacts and other historic relics. Spanning many decades and events, including the town's Watermelon Festival, the Leesburg Centennial celebration, and popular buildings, like the Magnolia Hotel, this museum is a testament to the ability of this small town to refuse to be eclipsed by the larger Orlando area to the north. The museum is run by the Leesburg Heritage Society.
Leesburg Heritage Museum
111 South 6th Street
Leesburg, FL 34748-5874
(352) 315-1800
leesburgflorida.gov/history/museum.aspx
Dora Canal
Boasting incredible cypress trees, some of which are 2,000 years old, the Dora Canal is well-known as one of the best waterways for viewing wildlife. This waterway serves as a refuge of sorts for herons, egrets and ospreys looking to nest. Visitors can kayak or canoe in these ways for an up-close glance at the wildlife that call the canal home, including the native alligators. There are also guided tours along the canal for visitors looking for a relaxing opportunity to enjoy these serene waters.
Dora Canal
lakecountyfl.gov/boating/the_dora_canal.aspx
Lake Griffin State Park
Situated just three miles from Leesburg, Lake Griffin State Park provides visitors with numerous outdoor activities. The center of the park, Lake Griffin is actually the eighth largest lake in the state of Florida. Fishing is plentiful here, with opportunities for catching bluegill, speckled perch, bass and catfish. Visitors can also hike along the nature trail and canoe or boat in the lake. While there is no swimming due to the large number of native alligators in the area, visitors may also camp at the fully-equipped campground in the park.
Lake Griffin State Park
3089 US Highway 441-27
Fruitland Park, FL 34731
(352) 360-6760
floridastateparks.org/lakegriffin/
Article Written By Lynda Moultry Belcher
Lynda Moultry Belcher is a writer, editor and public relations professional. She worked for a daily newspaper for 10 years and has been a freelance writer for more than 15 years. She has contributed to Divorce360 and Revolution Health Group, among other publications. She is also the author of "101 Plus-Size Women's Clothing Tips" and writes "Style At Any Size," a bi-weekly newspaper column.
