Long before Clermont became one of Florida's fastest-growing communities, it was known for something very different—endless orange groves stretching to the horizon.

Standing proudly above those groves was a brand-new landmark that would become one of the most recognizable roadside attractions in Florida: the Citrus Tower.

Construction began in 1955, and the tower officially opened on July 14, 1956. Rising 226 feet into the air atop one of Central Florida's highest natural ridges, visitors could take an elevator to the observation deck and enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of millions of citrus trees, rolling hills, and sparkling lakes. On a clear day, the view stretched for miles in every direction.

In the decades that followed, hundreds of thousands of tourists stopped in Clermont to experience the tower. It wasn't just an observation deck—it became a celebration of Florida's booming citrus industry and helped put Clermont on the map as a destination for travelers exploring the state before the era of major theme parks.

As the years passed, Central Florida changed dramatically. Devastating freezes during the 1980s, citrus diseases, and rapid residential development transformed much of the landscape that visitors once admired from the top of the tower. The vast orange groves gradually gave way to neighborhoods, shopping centers, and the growing city we know today.

Yet through every season of change, the Citrus Tower has remained.

Today, the view tells a different story. Instead of endless groves, visitors see Clermont's beautiful chain of lakes, rolling hills, thriving neighborhoods, and a community that continues to grow while honoring its past. The tower serves as a reminder of where Clermont came from—and how far it has come.

Whether you've lived here your entire life or just arrived, the Citrus Tower remains more than a landmark. It's a symbol of Clermont's history, resilience, and identity. As our city continues to evolve, one thing hasn't changed: the tower still stands watch over the community it calls home. On Tuesday, July 14th — the Citrus Tower will celebrate its 70th Anniversary.

At The Clermont Current, we'll continue sharing the stories behind the places, people, and history that make Clermont such a special place to call home.