20 Attractions to Explore Near Lake Griffin State Park

Illiana Motor Speedway, located in Lake County, Indiana, was a popular auto racing facility known for its thrilling races and entertainment for motorsports enthusiasts. This speedway hosted a variety of racing events, including stock car races, sprint car competitions, and other motorsport tournaments.

Venetian Gardens is a park located in Lake County, Florida. Positioned on the shore of Little Lake Harris, it features a beachfront boardwalk that loops around the water’s edge. It is also home to a marina, fishing pier, playgrounds, picnic areas, and several walking trails. On top of that, visitors can rent electric boats or paddle boats to explore Little Lake Harris. Also available are fishing charters and pontoon boat rentals for those wanting to explore farther out onto the lake.

This 4,518 acre marsh system is teeming with lush wildlife and stunning landscapes. This park is perfect for exploring nature’s diversity with its range of cypress swamps, hardwood hammocks, ponds and creeks. Here you can take an afternoon stroll around the looping miles of trails and enjoy cute sights like seven native species of turtles and more than 200 species of birds. You can also go on a canoe or kayak tour which allows you to explore the area in its entirety.

The Quincy and Torch Lake Cog Railway, is a scenic attraction that takes riders on a journey through the Keweenaw Peninsula. The experienced engineer guides guests through historic sites of the region on a one hour ride with views of natural forests, lakes, shorelines and more. It's been in operation since 1874 and is the oldest functioning railway business in the United States.

Lake Harris is Lake County's largest body of water. Ebenezer Jackson Harris (1815-1885), a pioneer who lived at Yalaha on the south side of the lake in the 1840s, gave the lake its name.

Lake Eustis covers approximately 7,000 acres. Beautiful Lake County is home to Leesburg, Eustis, Tavares, and Mount Dora, all of which boast excellent tourist accommodations and all kinds of sports activities that will delight any sports enthusiast.

It was founded by 66 artists and patrons of the arts on Bay Street in historic downtown Eustis in 1995 to nurture culture and beauty. The Lake Eustis Museum of Art was renamed by its founders

Howey Mansion is a historic home. The mansion is named after William John Howey, who founded Howey in the Hills.

Ferran Park is an outstanding park that offers a wide range of activities such as biking and jogging on the trails, fishing and swimming in the nearby creek, as well as picnicking and camping. there is also playgrounds for small children to explore and enjoy. For those looking for more adventure, there are numerous wildlife sightings that can include hawks, woodpeckers, and squirrels. All in all, It is a great place to come spend time with friends and family or just get away from it all.

The Clifford House is a historic home. The Clifford House was owned by G.D. Clifford, an early settler and local businessman. Clifford House is filled with period antiques and local history displays in each of its rooms.

Lake Dora, With its stunning shoreline and crystal clear waters, it has been the perfect destination for visitors for centuries. Boasting something for everyone, the lake offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as fishing, swimming, boating, kayaking and much more. And if you're looking to take in some history while visiting, there are plenty of cultural attractions too - from state parks to Native American historical sites and art galleries.

The Ocala National Forest,is the oldest federally-protected forest east of the Mississippi River. Spanning over 385,000 acres of protected land, this forest is filled with natural springs, over 600 lakes and rivers, trails for hiking and biking, and a variety of wildlife. There's even a Ranger Station that serves as an education center, providing information on the area's plant life and history. There are also many campgrounds available throughout the park.

In 1975, a group of art-loving citizens held the first Mount Dora Arts Festival. It was a small event, but it was a big success. It was decided to have an Arts Festival every year.

There are exhibits depicting the history of Mount Dora at the Mount Dora History Museum (formerly the Royellou Museum). The building was originally a firehouse and jail.

In Florida, Sugarloaf Mountain is the fifth-highest named point and the most prominent point. Prior to the 20th century, Sugarloaf Mountain was a wilderness dominated by sandhill and flatwood pine forests.

Since the construction of the Apopka-Beauclair Canal in 1888, Lake Apopka has undergone more than 100 years of human alteration.

Flying Eagle Preserve in Citrus County, Florida, is a nature lover's paradise. The preserve offers over 10 miles of trails for hikers and cyclists, as well as over 30 bird species and more than 20 amphibian varieties to observe. Visitors who'd like to fish can do so at Flying Eagle Lake or the adjacent Withlacoochee River. For animal lovers, there are various scatters of interesting wildlife, with deer and wild turkeys making frequent appearances in all seasons.

226 feet is the height of the Florida Citrus Tower. Citrus Tower has a coin drop where visitors can hear their coins drop to the bottom.

Presidents Hall of Fame is an iconic monument dedicated to honoring the many former presidents of the United States. Every president who has served since George Washington, is recognized on this impressive site. Visitors can explore a variety of artifacts, including presidential letters and mementos from all 44 presidents. The Hall of Fame also offers interactive exhibits and educational activities to help bring the stories of these past presidents to life for visitors.

There are 32 acres in the lake. The recreation area has hiking and biking trails. Kayakers also use the area.