The establishment of Clermont dates to the year 1884, and it achieved official incorporation in 1916. The city was thoughtfully designed atop undulating hills flanking the serene waters of Lake Minneola to the north and Lake Minnehaha to the south.
A pivotal moment in Clermont’s history came in 1922 when Edward Denslow launched The Postal Colony Company. He procured a thousand-acre tract of land, dedicating it to the cultivation of citrus. This land was managed and cultivated by retirees from the postal service, a move that saw Clermont rise to prominence as a leading citrus producer in the nation.
Among Clermont's main attractions, the Florida Citrus Tower, was built in 1956 atop a hill northeast of the downtown area, stands prominent. It offers an elevator ride to visitors aiming to marvel at the sweeping vistas of citrus plantations stretching toward Orlando, a view that predated the iconic Disney World.
Disaster struck Clermont in the early 1980s when a severe frost damaged most of the citrus groves. During this period, the Orlando metro area was experiencing rapid growth, making the lands of Clermont more viable for residential development rather than agriculture. Consequently, rather than replanting the groves, Clermont evolved into the bustling city it is known as today.
To truly experience the essence of Clermont, one must venture beyond the well-traveled routes of US-27 and State Road 50. Much like its Floridian counterparts, the authentic heart of Clermont is not readily visible from its main roadways.
At the coming together of these two significant roads, Clermont has witnessed substantial progress with the building of new commercial and residential infrastructures. The majority of the city’s population, which sits at above 30,000 residents, calls this modern area home.
Stepping into the historic downtown district of Clermont, one is greeted by refurbished e buildings that date back to a bygone era known as "Old Florida.” The city is home to a captivating city park situated on the southern banks of Lake Minneola, known as Waterfront Park, and proudly maintains a historic village where some of the original houses and buildings of Clermont are preserved.
Nestled within the gently rolling landscape of Lake County, Clermont, Florida, seamlessly marries the allure of a flourishing cityscape with the peace and quiet ideal for retirees and families. It is one of the swiftest growing locales in central Florida.
Clermont is set apart within Florida’s typically flat panorama with it's wave-like hills and a higher vantage point that affords residents stunning views.
The city's numerous lakes, particularly the renowned Chain of Lakes, play a central role in Clermont’s identity, with a wealth of water-based recreation available. Waterfront Park, situated alongside Lake Minneola, is a cornerstone of recreational activity, with boat ramps, fishing docks, and walking paths that provide residents plentiful opportunities to connect with Clermont’s aquatic allure.
Clermont is thoughtfully laid out with an emphasis on accessibility and includes an abundance of communities tailored for retirees. Intended to provide a secure, fun and enjoyable lifestyle, these communities foster active and community-involved living, with amenities designed to suit a variety of interests and enhance resident health and happiness.
Clermont's is big on community and hosts many outdoor events, like the local farmers market, shopping districts, culinary spots, and many entertainment options suitable for all generations. This mix of untouched landscape and urban development creates a lifestyle rich in diversity, accommodating the community’s various demographics. Recognized as a center for fitness and wellness, and known as "The Choice of Champions," Clermont's unique terrain makes it an esteemed destination for sports and outdoor enthusiasts.
The city places a strong emphasis on education and community initiatives, offering a spectrum of educational institutions from reputable public schools to high-caliber private establishments that strive for academic excellence
Clermont thrives on cultural and community engagement, highlighted by a vibrant downtown scene pulsating with local enterprises and an abundance of community activities that underscore the town’s sense of unity. Annual festivals, farmers' markets, and parades are a testament to Clermont’s community unity and inviting atmosphere.
Its strategic location near key highways and the attractions and employment centers of the Orlando area makes Clermont an enticing choice for those seeking connectivity alongside the quaint ambiance of a less hectic urban environment.
