Lake Butler FloridaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Lake Butler, Florida.
1. Lakeside Park
LAKEFRONT RECREATION AREA
Lakeside Park offers visitors a tranquil setting on the shores of Lake Butler with a rare freshwater beach in Florida. The park features a large playground, splash park, picnic tables, grills, and a boat ramp for enjoying the one-mile-wide lake. Families will appreciate the cookout amenities and community center while enjoying beautiful lake vistas.
2. Palatka-Lake Butler State Trail
SCENIC RAIL TRAIL
The Palatka-Lake Butler State Trail has its western terminus in Lake Butler, with approximately 4.1 miles of paved off-road trail extending eastward. Visitors can walk or cycle along this converted rail corridor through natural North Florida landscapes. The trail offers a peaceful recreational opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts exploring the region.
3. Union County Historical Museum
LOCAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The Union County Historical Museum, also referred to as the Marjorie McGill Druggers Historical Museum, is housed in one of the few remaining original buildings in town. Located near the rail trail in the Townsend Building, the museum showcases the rich history of Lake Butler and Union County. Though hours are limited, friendly volunteers will open the museum for visitors who call the town hall in advance.
4. Gainesville to Lake Butler Bicycle Route
FLAT AND FAST CYCLING
Lake Butler serves as the northern terminus of the 61-mile out-and-back Gainesville to Lake Butler bicycle route. The route is known for being flat and fast due to the absence of turns, stop signs, and signalized intersections. Cyclists will appreciate the recently resurfaced State Road 121 with its striped bicycle lanes on the shoulders.
5. Butler Seafood House & Grille
LOCAL DINING EXPERIENCE
Butler Seafood House & Grille offers visitors a taste of local cuisine in downtown Lake Butler. Located on North Lake Avenue, this restaurant serves fresh seafood and traditional grill items in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a satisfying meal after a day of exploring the lake and surrounding attractions.
6. Orlando Lake Butler Tours
CELEBRITY HOMES BOAT TOUR
Orlando Lake Butler Tours provides boat tours of the Butler Chain of Lakes, showcasing lakefront homes of celebrities and beautiful natural scenery. The 75-minute tour costs $25 per person and allows visitors to experience the tranquil beauty of the lakes while learning about the area. Located just 15 minutes from Orlando's major tourist attractions, these boat tours offer a peaceful contrast to the theme park experience.
7. Disney Springs
ENTERTAINMENT AND DINING COMPLEX
Disney Springs offers a more tranquil atmosphere compared to the nearby theme parks, with numerous bars, restaurants, and shops to explore. This outdoor complex features Disney-themed experiences without requiring theme park admission. Visitors can shop, dine, and enjoy entertainment in a beautifully designed waterfront setting.
8. Downtown Winter Garden
HISTORIC SMALL TOWN CHARM
Downtown Winter Garden captures small-town Florida charm with its historic buildings and unique local atmosphere. The area has an interesting history related to train workers who reportedly spat tomato seeds into the soil, contributing to the local agricultural development. Visitors can explore shops, restaurants, and historical sites while enjoying the friendly community vibe.
9. Universal CityWalk
ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT ICON
Universal CityWalk features the iconic Universal Globe outside of Universal Studios Theme Park, creating a perfect photo opportunity for visitors. The CityWalk area offers restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues without requiring theme park admission. Though it can get crowded, this vibrant district provides an energetic atmosphere for visitors to enjoy day or night.
10. Lake Butler Bass Fishing Tournament
POPULAR ANGLING COMPETITION
The Lake Butler Bass Fishing Tournament is a highly anticipated annual event that draws so many participants that the town's population increases exponentially for one weekend each summer. Anglers compete on the tranquil one-mile-wide lake known for its excellent fishing. The tournament showcases the natural beauty of Lake Butler's undeveloped shoreline, with approximately 90 percent of the lake bordered by tall trees.
11. Spires IGA Market
LOCAL GROCERY EXPERIENCE
Spires IGA Market serves as a community hub and grocery store in Lake Butler, providing necessities and local products to residents and visitors. Located on SW First Street, this market offers a glimpse into daily life in this small North Florida town. Visitors can stock up on supplies for picnics at Lakeside Park or gather ingredients for cooking while staying in the area.
12. Pizza Man
LOCAL PIZZA FAVORITE
Pizza Man is a beloved local eatery in Lake Butler serving pizza and casual Italian fare. Located on SW Fourth Avenue, this restaurant provides a relaxed dining option for hungry visitors exploring the town. After a day on the lake or trails, Pizza Man offers a satisfying meal in a friendly small-town atmosphere.
13. PADL
WATERCRAFT RENTAL SERVICE
PADL offers watercraft rental services at Lake Butler Lakeside Park, allowing visitors to explore the beautiful lake from the water. With convenient access to equipment, adventurers can paddle across the one-mile-wide lake and enjoy views of the largely undeveloped shoreline. This service enhances the recreational opportunities available at Lakeside Park, making it easier for tourists to experience Lake Butler's natural beauty.
14. Lake Butler Freshwater Beach
RARE INLAND BEACH EXPERIENCE
Lake Butler's freshwater beach offers a rare inland beach experience in Florida, located within Lakeside Park. Visitors can swim and relax along the sandy shore while enjoying views of the picturesque lake. The beach area is ideal for families seeking a day outing with swimming opportunities without traveling to the coast.
15. Butler Chain of Lakes
CONNECTED WATERWAY SYSTEM
The Butler Chain of Lakes is a connected system of lakes offering beautiful natural scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities near Orlando. Visitors can spot Florida wildlife while boating through these pristine waters surrounded by cypress trees and lush vegetation. The chain is also known for the lakefront mansions of celebrities and wealthy residents that dot the shorelines.