I’m always looking for unique places to visit that offer a different perspective on a destination. When I was researching things to do near Orlando, I came across the story of the Citrus Tower in Clermont. It’s an interesting attraction that has been around for a long time, and it tells a story about Florida’s history that I think you might find quite fascinating for your own family trips in 2026. It’s located just a short drive from the major theme parks, making it an easy addition to a Florida itinerary.
A Tall Look at Florida’s Past
The Citrus Tower is a really tall building, 226 feet high, that was built in 1956. It’s located in Clermont, which is about 23 miles west of Orlando. The main idea behind building it was to show off the area’s big citrus industry, with groves of orange trees stretching out in every direction. From the top, you can see parts of eight different counties on a clear day. It was once considered the highest observation deck in Florida.
When it first opened, it was a big deal. A lot of important people came to the grand opening, including people from other popular Florida tourist spots like Cypress Gardens and Silver Springs. Back then, Florida had a much smaller population, only about four million people. Now, it’s grown a lot, with over 22 million people living there in 2023. The Citrus Tower stands as a reminder of when Florida’s landscape looked very different.
What’s Inside and What to See
When you visit the Citrus Tower today, you can take an elevator up to the observation deck. It used to be open-air, but now it’s enclosed with glass, which is nice for comfort and safety. From up there, you can look out and see for miles around. While the vast citrus groves that once dominated the view are mostly gone, replaced by homes and businesses, you can still see lovely lakes and even a few trees. It’s a unique chance to see how the landscape has changed over the decades.
I was reading that from the top, you can sometimes see the Orlando skyline and even Walt Disney World in the distance. It’s amazing to think about how much this region has developed. This kind of historical perspective can be really interesting, especially when you’re traveling with children. It helps give them context for the present day. I’m thinking about how Emma and Sofia might enjoy seeing how much things have changed since the tower was first built.
More Than Just a View
Beyond the view, the Citrus Tower has a history of hosting different activities and attractions at its base. Over the years, it has been home to things like a glass-blowing demonstration, a soda fountain, and a gift shop. There was even a period in the 1960s when alligators were kept there as part of a wildlife exhibit! Later, it featured a candy shop and a glass-blowing studio. These little details add to the tower’s unique character and its story as a long-standing tourist stop.
The building itself has a memorable look. It started with an orange and white color scheme, designed to reflect the citrus theme. While the colors have changed a bit over time, the orange and white pattern was brought back in 2015, which I think is a nice nod to its origins. Inside the lobby, you can find original terrazzo tiles, which adds a touch of old-school charm. There are also display cases with older souvenirs and artifacts that give you a glimpse into the tower’s past.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
The Citrus Tower is located in a place that was once all about growing citrus. While that industry isn’t as prominent in Lake County anymore due to different challenges, the area still has a natural beauty. You can see many of the region’s lakes from the tower, and nearby natural areas offer opportunities for outdoor activities. For families planning a trip, it’s helpful to know that places like this offer a break from the busy theme parks and can provide a more relaxed pace.
I’m also looking into what kinds of food are available nearby. While the Citrus Tower itself used to have dining options, now there are various restaurants and cafes in the surrounding towns. I’m always on the lookout for casual, family-friendly places where everyone can find something they like without too much fuss. For a broader overview of dining options that might suit your family, you might want to check out family-friendly dining in the Orlando area.
Planning Your Visit
Getting to the Citrus Tower from the main Orlando tourist areas is quite straightforward. It’s a relatively short drive, making it an easy excursion if you have a rental car.
How long does it take to get there?
The drive from the heart of Orlando to Clermont typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This time frame makes it a great option for a half-day trip or as a stop on the way to or from other attractions further west.
The journey is usually quite easy, as you’ll primarily be on major highways. I find that knowing the travel time helps a lot when I’m planning our days, especially with younger children who don’t always enjoy long car rides. It’s usually best to check a navigation app before you leave, as traffic conditions can vary.
When is the best time to visit?
The Citrus Tower is generally open seven days a week, making it flexible for almost any travel schedule. I’ve found that visiting earlier in the day, especially on a weekday, can mean fewer crowds. Mornings often offer clearer skies for better views, which is something I always appreciate when I’m looking for scenic spots.
I’m also considering the weather for future trips. Florida can get quite warm, particularly during the summer months. Visiting in the morning or later in the afternoon can help you avoid the hottest part of the day. Of course, it’s always a good idea to check their official operating hours before you make plans, as these details can sometimes change.
What is there to do at the tower?
The main activity is enjoying the panoramic views from the observation deck. You can take a modern elevator with a classic look to ascend to the top. Once you’re up there, you can walk around and take in the 360-degree scenery. There are signs pointing out different landmarks, which can make the experience more informative.
I think this kind of activity is wonderful for children because it’s simple and engaging. They can learn to identify different features in the landscape and practice their observation skills. For families like mine, where Sofia is 13 and Emma is 6, finding activities that appeal to different age groups is key. The tower offers a unique, historical experience that’s different from the typical theme park attractions. You can find more general travel tips for visiting the Orlando area at our Orlando travel tips section.
The Changing Landscape
When the Citrus Tower was built, the views were dominated by orange trees. It’s fascinating to see how much the area has changed. The source material I read mentioned that a common observation is how the view went from “nothing but citrus trees” to “open fields” and then to “nothing but houses.” This transformation is a really tangible way to understand growth and development.
It’s important to set expectations with children, especially about what they will see. While there might be a few citrus trees left, the main feature now is the developed landscape. This can actually be an interesting discussion starter about community planning and how cities grow. I often find that these kinds of real-world examples are the most valuable for my daughters’ learning.
A Look Back at History
The history of the Citrus Tower is tied to the history of Central Florida itself. It was the idea of Clermont’s mayor, Ralph Harper, who wanted to highlight the local citrus industry. An entrepreneur named Alfred William Thacker saw the potential and helped bring the project to life. They formed Florida Towers Corp. and sold stock to raise money for construction.
The tower’s height grew during the planning stages, eventually reaching its impressive 226-foot mark. Its opening was a significant event, signaling the area’s growing importance as a tourist destination. It was positioned to draw visitors traveling between popular spots like Cypress Gardens and Silver Springs, serving as a central Florida landmark.
Competition and Adaptation
The Citrus Tower faced new challenges as Florida’s tourism landscape evolved. The construction of the Florida Turnpike diverted some traffic away from U.S. Highway 27, where the tower is located. Then, the opening of Walt Disney World in 1971 brought a major shift in the state’s tourism focus, drawing bigger crowds and more attention.
To adapt, the Citrus Tower introduced new attractions, like candy making and glass blowing, and tried to market its proximity to Disney World. However, the citrus industry itself declined in Lake County due to disease and freezes, impacting the original appeal of the view. Visitor numbers dropped significantly in the 1980s, and for a time, it seemed the tower might close.
But the tower has persevered. It was saved by new investors and has continued to operate, adapting to the changing times. In recent years, renovations have been made, ensuring it remains a place visitors can experience. This resilience is something I admire, and it’s a great lesson in how places can stay relevant by evolving.
Experiencing the Tower Today
Visiting the Citrus Tower in 2026 should offer a straightforward and interesting experience. It’s a chance to step back from the hustle and bustle of the major attractions and gain a unique perspective on Central Florida. I think it’s a valuable stop for any family wanting to understand the area’s past and present.
The tower is now owned by a religious group, Simchat Torah Beit Midrash, which reopened it after renovations in May 2023. This new chapter adds to its long and varied history. While the focus is now on preserving it as a historic attraction, it still provides that commanding view that has drawn visitors for decades.
A Different Kind of Florida Attraction
For many families, a trip to the Orlando area is all about theme parks and entertainment. I understand that completely. However, I always try to incorporate experiences that offer a bit more educational or historical value, and the Citrus Tower fits that bill perfectly. It’s a simple attraction that offers a unique glimpse into the region’s development.
It’s a good reminder that Florida tourism wasn’t always centered around giant mouse ears and roller coasters. There were other dreams and industries that shaped the state. I believe that by visiting places like the Citrus Tower, we can offer our children a more rounded understanding of the places we travel to. For more ideas on what to do, you can explore top things to do in Orlando.
I’m really looking forward to exploring more of these historical stops on our future travels. They add so much depth to a trip and create memories that are different from the usual tourist experiences.
