The 10 Best Day Trips From Orlando
10 Best Day Trips From Orlando
There are endless fun options in the heart of Central Florida. From theme parks to shopping and great food, you'll never run out of things to do in Orlando. Another great thing about Orlando is its central location. You can hop in the car and go on a complete adventure in less than 24 hours.
Whether you head to the east or west coast, a bit north or a bit south, day trips are plenty. Florida beaches are some of the best vacation spots and from the city beautiful, they are only a hop skip and a jump away. If outer space is more your thing, you can head to the Kennedy Space Center. Get a glimpse of live alligators swimming right next to you in the Everglades. There is not shortage of fun in the sun on a day trip from Orlando.
Orlando Day Trips Made Easy
Day trips can be quite fun from Orlando and we have compiled a comprehensive list of spots to add to your bucket list.
1 | New Smyrna Beach | Located about an hour from downtown Orlando, this beach has more to offer than just sun and sand. They have a beautiful history, delicious food scene and breweries a plenty. Bring your furry friends along as they have a dog friendly beach that Fido will love. While a stop at the beach should definitely make the list, be sure to check out The Hub on Canal which showcases local art regularly. When your stomach starts to rumble, Izzy’s Tacos and Ice Cream has both of your favorite treats in one stop.
WHERE: 111 Canal Street New Smyrna Beach |
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2 | Kennedy Space Center | The Kennedy Space Center is a great place to take you to infinity and beyond. Get up close and personal with shuttle launch simulators, IMAX films, rockets and see the launch pad. You can definitely make an entire day out of these exhibits. They center has a very cool experience where you can meet an astronaut – totally worth it! This day trip travel time will take you less than an hour from Orlando so you can definitely maximize your day.
WHERE: Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL 32953 | WHO: 855-433-4210
3 | Florida Everglades – Holiday Park | This one requires a bit of a trek but it is a staple in Florida. If you are up for an early morning, Everglades National Park is about 3.5 hours from Orlando and offers incredible sites and nature. Take an airboat ride and watch the alligators swim right next to your boat. Canoe through the mangroves and look out for all types of wildlife and insects. This is an outdoor lovers paradise.
WHERE: 21940 Griffin Road, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33332 | WHO: 954-434-8111
4 | Crystal River | While you might think that crystal blue waters is reason enough to visit, the manatees will wow you. Every year manatees come to the river in search of warm water and they are visible by the dozens. Visit to see this beautiful site. You can also kayak in the river or take a hike around it. Snorkeling tours are offered with the manatees and you are bound to interact with these friendly creatures.
WHERE: 915 North Suncoast Blvd Crystal River, FL 34429 | WHO: 800-587-6667
5 | St. Augustine | One of the most historic places in the United States, St. Augustine is no secret. While you could easily spend a weekend there, a day trip will let you visit the highlights. St. Augustine Beach is beautiful and worth a stroll in the morning. Then head to the Castillo de San Marcos which is the oldest fort in the United States. Be sure to stop at Osprey Tacos for delicious eats. If you need a pick me up, Crucial Coffee is a coffee house in a cute cabin near the heart of downtown.
WHERE: St. George St. St. Augustine, FL 32085 | WHO: 904-825-1007
6 | Daytona Beach | NASCAR is the icon of this fun town but the beach is not to be missed. Head to Daytona, which is a short trip from Orlando, and of course visit the Daytona National Speedway. You can take a tour or if you are a thrill seeker, they have a special experience where you can drive a racecar around the tracks. If art is your thing, check out the Art in the Alley murals all along the downtown Daytona area. Finish your day at the beach soaking in the sun. There is a beautiful pier with restaurants and bars that offers something for everyone.
WHERE: 1200 Main Street, Daytona Beach, FL 32118 |
7 | Devil’s Den | Boasting of blue waters and underground mystery, Devil’s Den Spring is not to be missed. Snorkeling and scuba diving is the only way to visit this hidden beauty. The cave is estimated to be 10,000 years old and is filled with wildlife, clear waters and ancient rock. Natural light shoots in from the opening of the cave which makes for beautiful swimming conditions but be aware that the water is a bit chilly. You can rent snorkeling gear on site and snorkel for up to two hours.
WHERE: 5390 NE 180 Ave, Williston, FL, 32696 | WHO: 352-528-3344
8 | Bok Tower Gardens | Not far outside of Orlando, Bok Tower Gardens is full of beauty year around. Pack a picnic basket and head out for a walk around the gardens. Find a spot and enjoy the views. Along your walk, there are sites beyond the gardens like the Pinewood Estate. You can tour this mansion for $6. They always have different events happening like concerts for your enjoyment.
WHERE: 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL, 33853 | WHO: 863-676-1408
9 | Mount Dora | This historic town is just 30 minutes outside of Orlando making it the perfect spot for a day trip. Always hosting festivals and antique shows, Mount Dora is a great location to try something new. They have wonderful options for Cuban food. Make sure to try some Cuban coffee for a kick to keep you going. The Wave Asian Bistro is also one of the best sushi spots in central Florida – trust me you won’t want to miss this place and their sushi burrito.
WHERE: Mount Dora, FL, 32757 |
10 | St. Pete | Less than two hours from Orlando, St. Pete is a fun stop for a day trip. Enjoy the beach and beautiful waters. Stick around for great food and drinks. Stop at Intermezzo Café for coffee and cocktails – the best of both worlds. The Avenue has a delicious chicken and waffle sandwich that you must try. St. Pete also has an awesome mural festival for the art lover in your group.
WHERE: 155 Corey Avenue St. Pete Beach, FL 33706 | WHO: 727-367-2735
Use Our Handy Map to Day Trip Like a Central Florida Pro!
Last Tips on Your Orlando Day Trip
To maximize your day, pre-plan your must stops before you go. With your itinerary in hand, you will be prepared to take on the fun day and make it back to Orlando before midnight!
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* Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.
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