Eustis, Florida
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Eustis is a city in Lake County, Florida, United States. It lies about 35 miles northwest of Orlando, Florida and is part of the Orlando–Kissimmee–Sanford Metropolitan Statistical Area. The population in the city proper was 23,189 at the 2020 census.
Eustis is often referred to by its motto "America's Hometown" and is known for its small-town charm. The City of Eustis holds a festival every year which begins on the last Friday of February and runs through Sunday and has been held since 1902. This annual festival, referred to as GeorgeFest, is recognized as the longest consecutive running event held in honor of George Washington, first President of the United States.
History
Source:<ref name="eustis_history">Template:Cite web</ref>
Eustis is one of several towns in Lake County that trace their origins to the 1870s, a post-Civil War era when settlers moved southward into the Florida frontier. The city is named after then Colonel Abraham Eustis, a U.S. Army officer who served during the Seminole Wars and skirmished along the south shore of what is now Lake Eustis, near Tavares.
Early settlement and founding (1825–1880)
The U.S. government opened the region for homesteading in the 1850s, though settlement was delayed by the Civil War.
Surveying was completed in 1875, and by 1876, A. S. Pendry had homesteaded on the eastern shore of Lake Eustis and planted a citrus grove. In 1877, he opened the Ocklawaha Hotel and operated a post office from its lobby under the name "Pendryville."
By 1879, Pendry platted 80 acres of his land as Pendryville, but the settlement's name changed shortly thereafter to Lake Eustis, and then simply "Eustis."
G. D. Clifford, another early settler, opened a general store and launched the area's first mail service. The second floor of his store was used to organize Eustis's first churches, including Episcopal, Methodist, and Presbyterian congregations.
In 1878, Eustis was connected to Leesburg, Florida and Mellonville, (now Sanford) via telegraph.
Before the arrival of railroads, steamboats served as the main means of travel and shipping. Eustis was connected by steamer to Mellonville and Jacksonville via the St. Johns River. A key boat landing was located at the foot of Macdonald Avenue, which became a commercial corridor.
Railroad and incorporation (1880–1890s)
In 1880, the St. Johns and Lake Eustis Railway reached Fort Mason, north of Eustis, transforming travel and commerce. The first train coming from Astor to Fort Mason, where passengers and freight made lake steamer connections to Leesburg, Helena, Yalaha, Bloomfield, Lane Park, and Tavares. The town grew rapidly with new stores, schools, a bank, and churches.
In 1881, Clifford and Smith built the town's first general store building. By 1883, residents voted to drop “Lake” from the name and incorporated the City of Eustis. D.W. Herrick was elected the first mayor. Bertie Clifford was the first baby born before Eustis was incorporated in 1883, and Edith Hutchins was the first baby of the newly incorporated town.
In 1886, Dr. J. H. Potter and Professor Byron F. Marsh established the Eustis Seminary, a school serving grades 1–12 near today's Eustis High School. The school closed in 1895 due to financial constraints.
An 1887 business directory listed the Clifford Store as a regional commercial hub, selling goods from groceries to hardware. Its upstairs opera house served as a cultural venue for Central Florida.
On January 1, 1888, Elias Disney and Flora Call—parents of Walt Disney—were married in Kismet, a now-defunct settlement near the Ocala National Forest. They honeymooned at the Kismet Hotel. In 1909, that hotel was dismantled and reassembled in Eustis as the Grand View Hotel, which operated until 1955.
Citrus boom and the Great Freeze (1890s)
Citrus farming became a cornerstone of the Eustis economy in the late 19th century. The area was surrounded by orange groves, and packing houses shipped produce to northern markets. However, the Great Freeze of 1894–1895, followed by another in 1898–1899, devastated crops and crippled the local economy.
Despite this, Eustis rebounded and became known as the “Orange Capital of the World.” The United States Department of Agriculture established a research station and lab in Eustis, pioneering the study of citrus plant diseases and hybridization.<ref name="usda_research">Template:Cite web</ref>
G.D. Clifford's Victorian home, designed in 1894, was delayed due to the freeze and completed in 1911. It now houses the Eustis Historical Museum and Preservation Society (also known as The Clifford House). Says Eustis historian Louise Carter, "Even though the freeze brought the town's economy to a standstill, Mr. Clifford kept his lakefront general store open and extended credit until people could recover."<ref name="clifford_house">Template:Cite web</ref>
According to an 1887 business directory, the Clifford Store on Lake Eustis sold groceries, hardware, building material, fertilizers, stoves, crockery, glassware, hay, and grain. The opera house, on the second floor, was a cultural center of Eustis and a wide swath of Central Florida. The eighteen-room house at the corner of Bay Street and Bates Avenue today houses the Eustis Historical Museum and Preservation Society, and takes visitors back to the gracious Lake County lifestyle of one hundred-odd years ago.<ref>Template:Cite book</ref>
Dr. J. H. Potter, the founding pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, encouraged the development of Eustis Seminary in 1886, under the direction of Professor Byron F. Marsh (for whom Marsh Memorial Park is named). The seminary served students from first through twelfth grades. Its buildings were located near the present site of Eustis High School on Washington Avenue. Struggling financially, the school closed around 1895 (reference has been removed - "The First One Hundred Years", First Presbyterian Church website, January 8, 2011 - https://www.fpceustis.com/)
Early 1900s–Great Depression (1900–1930s)
By the early 1900s, Eustis had become a popular winter resort, with the Ocklawaha Hotel catering to wealthy visitors.
In 1902, the city began an annual George Washington's Birthday celebration, now called GeorgeFest—the longest consecutively running annual festival in the United States honoring Washington.
The Dixie Highway and growing use of automobiles brought increased tourism. In the 1910s, the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad Depot on Magnolia Avenue served train travelers.
1913: The city established Ferran Park,<ref name="ferran_park">Template:Cite web</ref> named for local businessman Edgar L. Ferran. A bulkhead and land reclamation project created public green space along Lake Eustis.
1922: The Woman's Club of Eustis opened, now a historic landmark.<ref name="womans_club">Template:Cite web</ref>
1923–1927: Eustis City Hall was constructed in Neoclassical style during the Florida land boom. It now houses municipal offices and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
1923: Frank D. Waterman<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> built the Fountain Inn, which served tourists until it closed in 1936. In 1937, it was converted to Waterman Memorial Hospital.<ref name="fountain_inn">Template:Cite web</ref>
Mid–Late 20th century
1955: The Grand View Hotel (formerly the Kismet Hotel) was demolished.
1983: Eustis celebrated its centennial of incorporation.
Eustis remained a center for agriculture, including citrus, timber, and vegetables, before transitioning into a residential and commercial hub. Many Victorian homes and early 20th-century buildings survive today and are part of the historic downtown district.
Motorboating was—and remains—a popular activity on Lake Eustis, praised in period newspapers as unmatched in Florida.
21st century
2004: Florida Hospital Waterman (Now AdventHealth Waterman Hospital relocated from downtown to its current site on U.S. 441.<ref name="waterman_hospital">Template:Cite web</ref>
2013: The city completed a major downtown streetscape project as part of its revitalization efforts.
2025: Today, Eustis continues to embrace its motto of “Culture, Opportunity, Vitality” while preserving its rich heritage. The Clifford House serves as a museum showcasing local artifacts and stories from Eustis's past.
Historic sites
Template:Travel guide Eustis, Florida, features a rich collection of historic landmarks that reflect the city's cultural, civic, and architectural heritage. Several of these properties are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, highlighting their local and national significance. For a complete listing of registered historic places in the region, see National Register of Historic Places listings in Lake County, Florida.
A special thanks is extended to the City of Eustis for providing detailed historical information and for their continued efforts in preserving the city's historic identity.
Eustis City Hall
10 N. Grove Street (c. 1923 and 1927): Constructed in two phases, completed circa 1923 and 1927, Eustis City Hall was designed by architect Alan J. MacDonough in the Classical Revival style. The building has served various municipal functions, including housing the library, fire department, police department, jail, and civic organization rooms. It continues to function as the center of local government and is a contributing building in the Eustis Commercial Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRIS #05000654).<ref>Template:Cite journal</ref>
Clifford House (Eustis Historical Museum)
536 N. Bay Street (c. 1910): Named after G. D. Clifford, an early settler and local merchant who arrived in Eustis in 1875, this Neo-Classical style house was completed in 1911. It served as a private residence until 1983, when it became home to the Eustis Historical Museum & Preservation Society. The Clifford House was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places on April 4, 1975.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
200 Ferran Park Drive (c. 1926): Financed by local banker and civic leader William S. McClelland in honor of his wife, Alice, this bandshell was originally built in 1926 and relocated within Ferran Park in 1936. Designed by Alan J. MacDonough in the Mediterranean Revival style, it is noted for its parabolic acoustical design and is one of the two remaining historic bandshells in Florida. The structure was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1994 (NRIS #94000625).<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
227 N. Center Street (c. 1930): This Neo-Classical style building, designed by Alan J. MacDonough, has been home to the Eustis Woman's Club since its construction in 1931. The club, active since 1902, continues to meet at this location. The building was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places on August 5, 1991 (NRIS #91001006).
Grand Magnolia Inn
108 N. Bay Street (c. 1912): Originally opened as the First State Bank in 1913 and known as the "McClelland Building," this Italianate-style structure features ornate brickwork and is considered one of the most decorative buildings in downtown Eustis. It is a contributing structure in the Eustis Commercial Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRIS #05000654).<ref>Template:Cite journal</ref>
Gethsemane Baptist Church
535 S. Bay Street (c. 1914): Founded in 1884, the current masonry vernacular structure of Gethsemane Missionary Baptist Church was built in 1914. It features Gothic-style stained glass windows and a notable corner tower with battlements. The church holds significant cultural history as one of the early African American churches in Eustis. It was designated a local landmark in 2000.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
113–119 N. Bay Street and 112 McCulloch's Alley (c. 1881): As the oldest commercial building still standing in Eustis, the Iron Block Building showcases traditional downtown development with commercial space on the ground floor and residential units above. It is a contributing structure in the Eustis Commercial Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The building was granted local landmark status in 1998.
Crazy Gator's Restaurant
402 N. Bay Street (c. 1928): Originally the Eustis Feed, Seed, and Supply Co., this masonry vernacular structure has housed various businesses over the years, including a motorcycle shop in the 1970s. It currently operates as a restaurant and continues to contribute to the economic vitality of downtown Eustis. The building was granted local landmark status in 2000.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
Ace Theater
1609 E. Bates Avenue (c. 1945): Built as the only theater for African-American moviegoers in Eustis, the Ace Theater served as a significant cultural venue during segregation. The building collapsed in 2010 and was subsequently demolished. It was granted local landmark status in 2001.<ref name="Eustis Historic Preservation">Template:Cite web</ref>
The Ferran House
310 East Orange Avenue (c. 1908): Once home to E.L. Ferran, known as the "Grand Old Man of Eustis" and namesake of Ferran Park, this residence was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on October 16, 2019.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
Mt. Olive Cemetery
Huffstetler Road (c. 1909): Established in 1909, Mt. Olive Cemetery holds significant cultural heritage as an African-American cemetery. The original 5-acre site was purchased for $50 and has since expanded to approximately 10 acres. It was incorporated into the city limits in 1991 and was granted local landmark status in 2004.<ref name="Eustis Historic Preservation"/>
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of Template:Convert, of which Template:Convert is land and Template:Convert (13.28%) is water.
Eustis is located in central Florida on the eastern shore of Lake Eustis, one of the Harris Chain of Lakes Harris Chain of Lakes.<ref name="Harris_chain_of_lakes">Template:Cite web</ref> The city's terrain is relatively flat, approximately 79 feet (24 meters, with numerous lakes in the surrounding area. Eustis's climate and geography make outdoor activities like hiking, boating and fishing popular for residents and visitors.
The city limits are defined by Eudora, Abrams, and CR 44 (bypass) on the east, CR44 to the north, US Hwy 441 to the south and Lake Eustis and Florida Hospital Waterman to the west.
Zip Codes
Eustis is served by multiple ZIP codes:
32726: This ZIP code encompasses the central urban area of Eustis, including the downtown district, residential neighborhoods, and key civic institutions. It is governed by the City of Eustis.
32736: This ZIP code covers areas within Lake County, Florida, that are associated with Eustis but fall outside the city limits. It includes rural and suburban regions which are unincorporated communities within Lake County.
32727: This ZIP code is primarily a residential area located to the east of Eustis, covering portions of the city's outskirts. It includes neighborhoods and suburban areas that are close to Lake Eustis and the surrounding countryside. This area is also governed by the City of Eustis.
The distinction between these ZIP codes reflects the division between the city jurisdiction (32726 and 32727) and the county jurisdiction (32736), with the latter encompassing areas that are administratively managed by Lake County rather than the City of Eustis.
Neighboring Municipalities
Tavares, Florida – Located to the south of Eustis, Tavares is the county seat of Lake County and is known for its seaplane base and waterfront parks.
Mount Dora, Florida – Situated to the east of Eustis, Mount Dora is a popular tourist destination known for its historic district, arts, and antiques.
Leesburg, Florida – Located to the northwest, Leesburg is a larger city in Lake County and serves as a regional hub for retail, dining, and cultural activities.
Umatilla, Florida – To the north of Eustis, Umatilla is a small city located near the Ocala National Forest, known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Howey-in-the-Hills, Florida – Situated to the south of Eustis, this small town is known for its charming atmosphere, world-class golf courses, and proximity to Lake Harris.
Clermont, Florida – Located to the south-southwest of Eustis, Clermont is known for its rolling hills, chain of lakes, and rapidly growing residential communities, as well as being home to sports training facilities and scenic outdoor attractions. The city also boasts a vibrant equestrian scene, featuring facilities such as Lake Louisa State Park
These neighboring municipalities form the broader region of the Golden Triangle, which is a local term for the triangle-shaped area formed by Eustis, Tavares, and Mount Dora.
Climate
Eustis has a humid subtropical climate (Köppen climate classification C-fa), characterized by hot, humid summers and mild, drier winters . Average high temperatures in summer reach the lower 90s °F (~33 °C), and winter low temperatures typically drop into the mid-40s °F (7–10 °C) . Rainfall is plentiful: the city receives approximately 51 inches (1300 mm) of precipitation per year . The summer months (June through September) are the wettest, featuring frequent afternoon thunderstorms and downpours, while the winter and early spring are relatively drier. Snowfall is extremely rare – Eustis averages 0 inches of snow annually. The area is occasionally affected by tropical storms or hurricanes (mainly in the June–November Atlantic hurricane season), but most days feature the sunshine and warm temperatures for which Florida is known. Overall, Eustis's climate is warm and humid for much of the year, with a long growing season and lush vegetation.
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average High °F | 69 | 72 | 76 | 81 | 87 | 89 | 90 | 90 | 88 | 82 | 76 | 71 |
| Average Temperature °F | 58 | 61 | 66 | 71 | 76 | 80 | 81 | 81 | 79 | 73 | 66 | 61 |
| Average Low °F | 50 | 52 | 57 | 62 | 68 | 73 | 75 | 75 | 73 | 66 | 58 | 53 |
Plant hardiness (Agricultural climate)
Eustis, Florida, falls within USDA Hardiness Zone 9b.<ref name="usda_zone">Template:Cite web</ref> This zone offers a long growing season and is conducive to a diverse range of plants, making it ideal for both ornamental and edible gardening.<ref name="southernliving">Template:Cite web</ref>
A wide variety of plants thrive in Zone 9b. Citrus trees such as oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines are especially well-suited to the climate, providing both aesthetic appeal and fruit production.<ref name="citrus">Template:Cite web</ref> Additionally, many vegetables, herbs, and flowering plants flourish in this zone. When selecting plants, gardeners should consider factors such as sunlight exposure, water needs, and pest management to ensure success.<ref name="ufgarden">Template:Cite web</ref>
Even within Zone 9b, microclimates may occur due to changes in elevation, proximity to water bodies, and urban development. These microclimates can influence temperature and humidity levels, thereby impacting plant performance. Gardeners are encouraged to observe their specific site conditions and adapt their plant choices and cultivation methods accordingly.<ref name="ifas_zone9b">Template:Cite web</ref>
Native plant species
Incorporating native plants into gardens and landscapes supports local ecosystems and biodiversity. Below is a selection of native species well-suited for Eustis and the surrounding Lake County area:
Eustis Lake Beardtongue (Penstemon australis) – A perennial herb with pink to violet tubular flowers, attracting pollinators in spring.
American Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) – A deciduous shrub known for its vibrant purple berries that attract birds.<ref name="beautyberry">Template:Cite web</ref>
Scarlet Hibiscus (Hibiscus coccineus) – Also known as swamp hibiscus, this plant features striking red flowers and thrives in moist soils.<ref name="hibiscus">Template:Cite web</ref>
Muhly Grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris) – An ornamental grass with airy pink-purple inflorescences, tolerant of drought and poor soils.<ref name="muhly">Template:Cite web</ref>
Coral Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens) – A vine with tubular red flowers that attract hummingbirds, suitable for trellises and fences.<ref name="honeysuckle">Template:Cite web</ref>
Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) – A host plant for monarch butterflies, featuring bright orange flowers.<ref name="milkweed">Template:Cite web</ref>
Southern Live Oak (Quercus virginiana) – A majestic, long-lived tree providing habitat and food for various wildlife species.<ref name="liveoak">Template:Cite web</ref>
Coontie (Zamia integrifolia) – Florida's only native cycad, serving as a larval host for the atala butterfly.<ref name="coontie">Template:Cite web</ref>
Tickseed (Coreopsis spp.) – Florida's state wildflower, known for its bright yellow blooms and adaptability.<ref name="tickseed">Template:Cite web</ref>
Blue-eyed Grass (Sisyrinchium angustifolium) – A grass-like perennial with star-shaped blue flowers, suitable for borders and meadows.<ref name="blueeyed">Template:Cite web</ref>
These native species are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, often requiring less maintenance and water than non-native plants. Incorporating them into landscapes supports local wildlife and promotes ecological balance.
Economy
The economy of Eustis is driven by a diverse mix of industries, including manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare. The city is home to Florida Food Products, a leading manufacturer of natural food ingredients,<ref>Florida Food Products</ref> and Mercer Products Inc., which specializes in industrial goods for the construction industry.<ref>Mercer Products Inc.</ref> Agriculture, particularly in agriculture technology, plays a significant role, with companies like AG3 Inc. offering nationwide plant shipments.<ref>AG3 Inc.</ref> Additionally, logistics and freight transport contribute to the local economy, with companies like Service Trucking Inc. serving regional and national transportation needs.<ref>Service Trucking Inc.</ref>
Eustis is surrounded by fertile land, making it a hub for farming, particularly berry cultivation. Local farms, such as Amber Brooke Farms <ref>[1]</ref> and Sand Hill Farms <ref>[2]</ref> offer U-pick experiences for visitors, focusing on blueberries and strawberries. These farms also provide educational tours and seasonal festivals, which enhance both the agricultural tourism sector and community engagement. Farms like these are examples of how the area embraces sustainable practices and agritourism, contributing to the city's economy by attracting visitors and supporting local food production.
Demographics
Population
As of the 2020 U.S. census, there were 23,189 people residing in Eustis (32726), a significant increase from 18,558 in 2010. The city had 8,106 households and 5,485 families.
The 2023 U.S. Census American Community Survey 5-Year <ref>Template:Cite web</ref> estimates ZIP Code 32726 and 32736, which cover Eustis and surrounding communities in Lake County, Florida, have a combined population of approximately 35,467 residents. There was no data for zip code 32727. 32726 accounts for 23,885 people, while 32736 includes 11,582. The population is relatively evenly distributed by gender, with 32726 slightly skewed toward females (52.4%) and 32736 exhibiting near parity.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
2025 population estimate<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> is 25,300 people residing in the city of Eustis. These population numbers do not account for people living in the county area of Eustis (zip code 32736), which is estimated to include an additional 12,000 people.
Eustis also serves as the center for many small communities of rural East Lake County, including Cassia and Pine Lakes. These communities are not reflected in the Census Bureau's city statistics, but make up for the vast discrepancy in county-to-city statistics. When the rural statistics are compiled into the city stats, the total population of Eustis topped 50,000 in 2000 according the US Census. Template:Citation needed
Population by decade
Template:US Census population Template:Clear
Age distribution
Age distribution trends show that about 21% of residents in both ZCTAs are under the age of 18, and adults aged 65 and over comprise approximately 21% in 32726 and 20.9% in 32736. The median age in ZCTA 32726 is 40.6 years, compared to 49.5 years in ZCTA 32736, indicating an older population in the latter area. Dependency ratios also reflect this demographic trend, with 32726 reporting a child dependency ratio of 35.6 and an old-age dependency ratio of 36.1. In contrast, 32736 has slightly lower child and old-age dependency ratios, at 31.4 and 34.7 respectively.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
Racial demographics
| Race | Pop 2010<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> | Pop 2020<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> | % 2010 | % 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White | 12,606 | 14,075 | 67.93% | 60.70% |
| Hispanic or Latino (any race) | 2,202 | 3,934 | 11.87% | 16.96% |
| Black or African American | 3,152 | 3,779 | 16.98% | 16.30% |
| Asian | 205 | 307 | 1.10% | 1.32% |
| Native American or Alaska Native | 62 | 45 | 0.33% | 0.19% |
| Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian | 1 | 12 | 0.01% | 0.05% |
| Some other race | 21 | 85 | 0.11% | 0.37% |
| Two or more races/Multiracial | 309 | 952 | 1.67% | 4.11% |
| Total | 18,558 | 23,189 | 100.00% | 100.00% |
Other census data
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 23,189 people, 8,106 households, and 5,485 families residing in the city.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
In 2020, there were 1,762 veterans living in the city and 12.2% were foreign born persons. There were 2.55 persons per household. 92.8% of the households had a computer and 87.1% of households had a broadband internet subscription.<ref name=QFeustis>Template:Cite web</ref>
Of the population older than 25 years in 2020, 86.9% had a high school degree or higher and 19.0% of that same population had a bachelor's degree or higher 11.7% of the population 65 years and older lived with a disability and 19.1% of that same population did not have health insurance. 6.0% were under 5 years old, 20.7% were 18 years old, 21.0%. 51.9% of the population were female.<ref name=QFeustis/>
In 2020, the median household income was $52,074 and the per capita income was $26,974. 16.0% of the population lived below the poverty threshold. The population per square mile 2,123.7.<ref name=QFeustis/>
As of the 2010 United States census, there were 18,558 people, 7,491 households, and 4,695 families residing in the city.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
Education
Overall, the city places an emphasis on education and lifelong learning, with community support for its schools exemplified by events like high school homecoming parades, band concerts in Ferran Park, and active school alumni associations.<ref name="EustisLive">Template:Cite web</ref>
Primary and secondary education
Public education in Eustis is overseen by Lake County Schools, the county-wide public school district.<ref name="LakeSchools">Template:Cite web</ref> Eustis has two elementary schools: Eustis Elementary School (established in 1925) and Eustis Heights Elementary. The city also has one middle school, Eustis Middle School, serving grades 6–8. Eustis High School Curtright Campus, established in 1925, is dedicated solely to 9th-grade students. Eustis High School (established in 1886) serves the city's high school students and is known for its award-winning athletics and band programs.<ref name="EustisHigh">Template:Cite web</ref>
Eustis is also home to a public charter school, Alee Academy, which provides alternative and vocational-focused high school education.<ref name="AleeAcademy">Template:Cite web</ref>
Post-secondary education
Eustis hosts the main campus of Lake Technical College (Lake Tech), a public vocational and technical school offering programs in healthcare, automotive technology, welding, culinary arts, and emergency services. It is a key resource for workforce development in the area.<ref name="LakeTech">Template:Cite web</ref>
Nearby Lake-Sumter State College offers two-year degrees and transfer programs.<ref name="LakeSumter">Template:Cite web</ref> The University of Central Florida (UCF) is located approximately 43 miles from Eustis, and the University of Florida is about 80 miles away. Several other universities in the Central Florida region are also within driving distance, providing residents with access to a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
Public library and lifelong learning
Eustis is served by the Eustis Memorial Library,<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> which is part of the Lake County Library System. The library offers books, digital resources, educational programs, and community meeting spaces.<ref name="LakeLibrary">Template:Cite web</ref>
Educational exhibits, workshops, and cultural programs are also provided by local organizations such as the Clifford House Museum<ref name="CliffordHouse">Template:Cite web</ref> and Arching Oaks Art and Culture Center (a traditional Japanese cultural center).<ref name="ArchingOaks">Template:Cite web</ref>
List of educational institutions
| Name | Type | Grades / Program | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eustis Elementary School | Public Elementary | K–5 | Established 1925.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> |
| Eustis Heights Elementary School | Public Elementary | K–5 | <ref>Template:Cite web</ref> |
| Eustis Middle School | Public Middle | 6–8 | <ref>Template:Cite web</ref> |
| Eustis High School – Curtright Campus | Public High School (9th Grade Campus) | 9 | Serves only 9th grade students.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> |
| Eustis High School | Public High School | 10–12 | Established 1886; award-winning athletics and band.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> |
| Alee Academy | Public Charter High School | 9–12 | Alternative and vocational-focused education.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> |
| Lake Technical College | Public Technical College | Adult / Post-secondary | Vocational training in healthcare, welding, culinary arts, etc.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> |
| Lake–Sumter State College (nearby) | State College | AA / AS Degrees | Offers transfer programs.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> |
| University of Central Florida (Orlando) | Public University | Undergraduate & Graduate | Approx. 43 miles from Eustis.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> |
| University of Florida (Gainesville) | Public University | Undergraduate & Graduate | Approx. 80 miles from Eustis.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> |
Transportation
Eustis, Florida, is primarily served by U.S. Highway 441 (US 441), which connects the city to neighboring communities such as Tavares, Mount Dora, Umatilla, and Leesburg. Several expressways and major roads are within a reasonable distance, providing regional connectivity.
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Expressway access
Interstate 75 (I-75): Approximately 35 miles northwest of Eustis, accessible via State Road 44 (SR 44) west to Interstate 75 in Wildwood. I-75 is a major north–south interstate running from Miami to the Michigan–Canada border.Template:Cite web
Florida's Turnpike: Intersects with I-75 at Exit 307 in Wildwood, about 20 miles north of Eustis. This toll road runs from Miami to Wildwood, facilitating long-distance travel.Template:Cite web
State Road 429 (Western Beltway): Located approximately 25 miles southeast of Eustis, SR 429 provides an alternative north–south route, enhancing access to the Florida Turnpike and area attractions.Template:Cite web
Public transportation
Public transportation in Eustis is available through the LakeXpress bus system, operated by Lake County, Florida. LakeXpress Route 1 runs through Eustis, connecting it with Mount Dora and Tavares, providing residents with a public transit option along the US 441 corridor.Template:Cite web
Airports
Orlando Sanford International Airport: Approximately a 45-minute drive east of Eustis, offering commercial flights.Template:Cite web
Orlando International Airport: Roughly an hour's drive to the southeast, providing a wide range of domestic and international flights.Template:Cite web
Rail service
Eustis currently lacks passenger rail service. The nearest SunRail commuter rail stations are in DeBary and Sanford, both accessible by car.Template:Cite web Historically, Eustis was served by the Orange Belt Railway and later the Atlantic Coast Line for freight; however, these rail lines are now inactive or used solely for freight purposes.Template:Cite web
Local transportation
Within the city, most residents depend on private automobiles for transportation. The street network includes a traditional downtown grid (with Bay Street and Magnolia Avenue as key thoroughfares) and more suburban-style roads in newer developments. The city has undertaken streetscape improvements downtown to enhance pedestrian access.Template:Cite web A planned extension of the Wekiva Trail will eventually connect Eustis with other communities via a biking and walking path.Template:Cite web Ferran Park’s walkway along Lake Eustis is a popular spot for pedestrians, and the city is adding sidewalks and bike lanes to improve local mobility.Template:Cite web
Festivals and events
Eustis is home to a variety of vibrant festivals and events that reflect the city's heritage and community spirit:
GeorgeFest: An annual celebration of George Washington's birthday, held since 1902. It features parades, a carnival, live music, food vendors, and fireworks over Lake Eustis. It is the longest continuously running George Washington Birthday festival in the United States.Template:Cite web
Independence Day Celebration: Held at Ferran Park, this event includes fireworks, live music, and family-friendly activities along the waterfront.Template:Cite web
Eustis Street Fest: A monthly event held on the first Friday of every month, featuring food trucks, live entertainment, and local vendors in downtown Eustis.Template:Cite web
Craft Fairs and Farmers Markets: Regular events offering local handmade goods, fresh produce, and opportunities for community gathering.
Eustis Fall Festival: A celebration of the season with pumpkin carving, live entertainment, food vendors, and family-friendly activities.
Local attractions
Template:Travel guide Eustis Aquatic Center: Located at 250 Ferran Park Drive, this center features a heated outdoor pool, splash pad, and offers swimming lessons and fitness programs.Template:Cite web
Eustis Skate Park: Situated at 4001 W. Ward Avenue, this 10,000-square-foot facility includes a street plaza and a bowl designed to resemble a backyard pool.Template:Cite web
Trout Lake Nature Center: A 230-acre wildlife preserve offering hiking trails, educational programs, and opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.Template:Cite web
Carla Gnann-Thompson Memorial Dog Park: Located at 601 Disston Avenue, the dog park offers separate play areas for small and large dogs, shaded seating, agility features, and water stations.Template:Cite web
Parks
Ferran Park: The city's central park on the shores of Lake Eustis, featuring a lakefront promenade, fishing pier, playgrounds, picnic areas, and the historic Alice McClelland Memorial Bandshell.Template:Cite web
Sunset Island Park: Offers covered picnic areas, a skatepark, playground, and tennis courts.Template:Cite web
Bennett Park: Provides space for both passive and active recreational activities.Template:Cite web
Pendleton Park: Adjacent to the Eustis Community Center, this park overlooks Lake Eustis and provides access to the Eustis Lake Walk.Template:Cite web
Carver Park: Features a basketball court, picnic tables, playground, and sports pavilion.Template:Cite web
Palmetto Point Park: Includes a half-mile walking trail with exercise stations, a multipurpose field, and restrooms.Template:Cite web
Hidden Waters Preserve: A 90-acre nature reserve featuring a sinkhole lake, hardwood hammock, and sandhill habitats.Template:Cite web
Notable people
- Keon Ellis, NBA professional basketball player
- Edgar James Banks, diplomat, antiquarian, and novelist
- Tzimon Barto, classical pianist
- Gwendolyn B. Bennett, Harlem Renaissance poet and artist
- Rod Brewer, MLB professional baseball player
- Joe Burnett, NFL professional football player
- Kerry Carpenter, MLB professional baseball player
- Jeff Coffey, musician who joined rock group Chicago in October 2016
- Anthony Fieldings, NFL professional football player
- Kenny Green, NBA professional basketball player
- David Hobby, photojournalist and founder of Strobist.com
- Solomon Jones, NBA professional basketball player
- Kathryn Joosten, actress
- Hughie Lee-Smith, artist
- Jonathan Lucroy, MLB professional baseball player
- Kristin Ludecke, beauty queen
- Thomas McClary, singer/songwriter and founding member of The Commodores
- Chris Okey, MLB professional baseball player
- Michael Ray, country music singer
- Jon Schneck, guitarist in alternative rock band Relient K
- John Robert Schrieffer, physicist and winner of the 1972 Nobel Prize in Physics
- Brady Singer, MLB professional baseball player
- Patricia Sullivan, political activist
- David Walker, astronaut
- Gunner Wright, actor
References
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External links
Template:Lake County, Florida Template:Metro Orlando Template:US state navigation box