Lakeside Inn is under new ownership.
The new owner is in the process of upgrading and restoring the Inn as the previous owner seemed to let things slide considerably.
One has to understand that improvements to a building on the National Historic Register can take a long time and cost an enormous amount of money.
There are strict standards that have to be kept being a NHR property. This can lead to delays in permitting and construction.
Many of the buildings restorations are well under way and in some cases complete.
With that in mind, I believe the Lakeside Inn is well on its way to reliving the glory days of historic Florida.
This is the type of hotel that still has the room keys in wooden slots behind the counter.
If you're expecting the Westin or Hilton hotel with all the modern technology and luxury amenities, this is not the hotel for you to stay at.
The Inn is charming. It's small. Yes, the TVs are older and you still have a real room key, not a swipe card.
Sitting on the porch in the evening watching the sunset over the lake with a glass of ice tea is the perfect end to a relaxing evening.
The Inn even has a real sea plane service that can fly you on a sightseeing tour (I believe approx $50/person). The tour is limited to certain times of year. I'd recommend calling ahead to check on availability.
How cool is that? How many hotels do you know that can provide a sea plane sightseeing tour?
Perhaps the most amazing part of the Inn is their lobby. Several seating areas allow for a nice place to spend the evening catching up with friends.
Speaking of friendly, don't be surprised if other guests stop and say hello to you. The Inn's lobby actually creates an environment where people are amazing social and friendly to each other and get to know each other.
It's within walking distance of the 5th Avenue shopping district (just one block away).
If you're looking for something off the beaten path. Away from the insanity of the hotels on Disney or Universal Studios property, the Lakeside Inn is definitely worth it.
It's charming get away.
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