Tavares was founded in 1882 and became the county seat in 1888 after a highly controversial election. Although historical records say that Tavares won the election, local historians tell a different story. According to the legend, the City of Tavares and the City of Leesburg were both vying for the County Seat. The election returns in favor of Tavares were so narrow that Leesburg set out to challenge them.

Since the 1880's Tavares has been a center of government, the citrus industry, as well as a destination for tourists who enjoyed the beautiful view of Lake Dora from the old lakeside pavilion. Although the pavilion is long since gone, tourists still enjoy the lake front park, the historic sites, beautiful waterways and parks. Tavares is fast becoming a great place to conduct business, with its proximity to the metro-Orlando area; all while retaining is small town charm.