Downtown Clermont’s walkable Montrose Street and food hall Montrose Street Market.

Clermont

Known as the “Choice of Champions,” Clermont has a reputation as a training ground for athletes, from high school athletes and regional record-breakers to Olympians; among those who have lived or trained here are Shane Greene, an MLB pitcher for the Atlanta Braves who was named an All Star in 2019; Nina Kraft, the oldest professional female Ironman winner; and Noah Lyles, an Olympic Gold Medalist and world record-holding sprinter.

But beyond its ample sporting facilities, Clermont is full of pristine lakes, parks and trails. In 2018, it was designated as a Trail Town by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Florida Greenways and Trails System and has been nationally certified as a runner-friendly and bicycle-friendly community.

Don’t miss the picturesque 13-mile South Lake Trail, with hills, lakes and panoramic vistas. It’s part of the under-construction Florida Coast-to-Coast Trail, which, when completed, will stretch from the east to west coasts of Florida, from Titusville to St. Petersburg. 

Downtown Clermont’s walkable Montrose Street and food hall Montrose Street Market.

Clermont was founded in 1884 and incorporated in 1916, when its main industry was citrus production (that industry thrived until the 1960s). Today, it is the largest city in Lake County, one of the fastest growing counties in Florida. Its historic downtown is the heartbeat of the city, supported by Clermont Main Street, a passionate group of businesses and volunteers working to revitalize the area through a mix of public funding, grants, sponsorships and community events. Recurring events include wine strolls and First Friday food trucks; there are also seasonal festivals. 

Browsing for records at Triangle Vinyl.

Clermont’s diverse retail selections make it a joy to shop here. The Sunshine Book Co. is your local, independent bookstore and offers literary gifts in addition to its inspired selections. It embraces the community with author events and book clubs. The Gray Collective Boutique is a cheerful, carefully curated boutique. Triangle Vinyl’s LPs range from classic rock and vintage blues to soul, country, metal and progressive. Shop for a good cause and find something truly unique at the Animal League Thrift Shop. 

When it’s time to wet your whistle, Clermont has you covered any time night or day: try Flag Corner Coffee, Clermont Brewing Company or Blushin’ Bubbles.

Bike trails pass through Clermont, a designated Trail Town.

Further development is coming to Clermont via the Downtown-Waterfront Master Plan, which will enhance public spaces, trails, streetscapes and include infrastructure improvements while expanding downtown’s emerging arts scene. In all, more than 30 projects are underway.

Main Street Orlando