Best Area to Stay in DeLand Florida: Local’s Guide to Top Places

I’ve grown up in this small town, so I’m happy to share the best area to stay in DeLand, Florida! While this is a charming town, there are definitely better areas than others to stay. You won’t find luxury accommodations here, but there are good hotels and home vacation rentals to ensure you’ll have a comfortable stay!

Quick Picks: Best Places to Stay in DeLand, Florida

I’ve narrowed down some of the top options to help you find the best area to stay in DeLand, Florida. Downtown is among the best options as it’s also close to Stetson, followed by accommodations on lakes or rivers that offer a peaceful retreat!

🏷️ Category	🏨 Property	✨ Why It’s Great
Best Overall Hotel	Courtyard by Marriott DeLand Historic Downtown	Walkable and reliable — ideal for first-time visitors. Downtown and close to Stetson University.
Most Charming Stay	Artisan Downtown	Boutique hotel with historic charm and a Cuban restaurant/bar, perfect for travelers seeking a charming stay downtown.
Best Vacation Rental Downtown	Walkable to Downtown DeLand & Stetson University	Spacious home within walking distance of both downtown and Stetson, great for families or small groups.
Best for Families / Groups	1910 Family Reunion Home in the Historic District	Large historic home that sleeps up to 10, with a yard and period charm, perfect for gatherings or multi-family stays.
Best Budget-Friendly Stay	Comfort Inn & Suites DeLand – near University	Affordable and convenient, within a short drive of Skydive DeLand, Stetson, and downtown DeLand.
Best for Nature Lovers	Beautifully Appointed Lakefront Home	Relax lakeside with a pool and hot tub, surrounded by peaceful scenery, just minutes from downtown.
Best Riverside Escape	Hontoon Landing Resort & Marina	Tranquil St. Johns River setting with boating and wildlife opportunities for a serene getaway.

Best Areas to Stay in DeLand Florida

The best areas to stay in DeLand, Florida include downtown and near Stetson! Enjoying a lake or river accommodation can also offer a peaceful retreat. While DeLand has a lot of motels, they are older and not ideal for visitors, so I’m focusing on hotels and rentals I’d personally recommend. There are a few chain hotels in DeLand that make the list, but most of the options are local stays, whether a charming hotel or vacation rental!

Downtown DeLand

When considering the best area to stay in DeLand, the downtown area should be a top consideration. It’s historical, charming and lined with restaurants and shops. You’ll be in a very walkable area, so making a coffee run to Trilogy or Boston Coffee will be easy! Or you can make a late night walk to Whit’s for some delicious frozen custard (my favorite)!

Cons of Downtown DeLand – I’ve noticed more homeless people in recent years. While I’ve never had an issue, it’s worth noting. Also, it’s good to remember it’s a small town, not a big city, so restaurants and shops won’t always be open or may close earlier than you’d expect.

Artisan Downtown – Situated at the southern end of downtown DeLand is Artisan Downtown. It’s a charming 3 Star Hotel with a restaurant and bar. I do enjoy the Cuban restaurant and love the charm of this building!

Courtyard by Marriott DeLand Historic Downtown – The Courtyard by Marriott sits on the northern end of downtown DeLand. I’ve had family stay here and had a good experience. It’s also a block away from my favorite ice cream spot of Whit’s Frozen Custard! If you’re in town for Stetson, this is a great option as you’ll be in walking distance of Stetson as well!

The Deland Hotel – This hotel is not downtown, but it’s very close. This hotel oozes charm. I’ve enjoyed the restaurant several times and they also have a speak easy vibe bar. Even though it’s not downtown, it’s definitely worth considering for its proximity to downtown and Stetson University.

Unwind in DeLand: Fire Pit Nights & Downtown Delights! – A two bedroom, one bathroom home rental very close to downtown. It can sleep up to five, and has a cute outdoor area.

1910 FAMILY REUNION HOME IN THE HEART OF DELAND’S HISTORIC DISTRICT – Only a block from downtown DeLand. It’s a great option for large families or groups as it sleeps up to ten people.

Charming 1925 House in the Heart of DeLand – This home has two bedrooms and one and half bathrooms. It sleeps up to five, but it is a bit further from downtown DeLand than the options above. However, it’s still close enough to walk if you choose. Stetson will be closer to a 15 to 20 minute walk.

Near Stetson University

Stetson University is by downtown DeLand, so if you want the best of both worlds, stay at Courtyard by Marriott DeLand Historic Downtown. Any additional options within walking distance of Stetson will be home rentals.

Quaint Bungalow walking distance to downtown DeLand – This one bedroom, one bathroom sleeps four. Closer to Stetson University than downtown, but both can be reached on foot.

Walkable to Downtown DeLand & Stetson University – This two bedroom, one bathroom can sleep up to six people. It’s within walking distance of both downtown DeLand and Stetson University, making it a great location.

1910 FAMILY REUNION HOME IN THE HEART OF DELAND’S HISTORIC DISTRICT – This three bedroom, two bathroom home can sleep up to ten people! It’s only a block from my favorite ice cream spot, Whit’s Frozen Custard, in downtown DeLand. Stetson is also super close, so this is a great option for large families or groups who want to be close to downtown and Stetson.

3/2 Home Near Stetson Save 10% when you book 3 Nights – This 3 bedroom, two and half bath home has a pool and is very close to Stetson! You can also walk to downtown DeLand, but it is bit further than Stetson. This house books fast, so be sure to grab it early. It can sleep up to six people!

Lovely Pool Home in Historic Town – This three bedroom, two bathroom home sits on the other side of Stetson versus the above options. It’s about a 15 minute walk and closer to the sports area rather than the music area of Stetson. It has a pool and with over 100 positive reviews, it’s a great option to consider!

Near Skydive DeLand

Skydive DeLand doesn’t have much nearby, so most accommodations will require a drive. Downtown DeLand is only eight minutes away by car, so the downtown and Stetson options are good to consider as well.

Beautifully Appointed Lakefront home in quiet neighborhood, with pool & hot tub – This gorgeous home sits in a quiet neighborhood on a lake and has a screened in pool. It’s approximately a five minute drive to Skydive DeLand and seven to downtown DeLand. A 4/2 and sleeps six. Perfect for a quiet, family stay.

Comfort Inn & Suites DeLand – near University – This hotel is the closest option to Skydive DeLand. It’s only a mile and half away or a five minute drive. If you do walk, you will have to cross a four lane, busy road. There’s a Publix grocery store close by and some chain and local restaurants.

Hampton Inn & Suites Deland – The next closest option is this Hampton Inn. It’s also a five minute drive, but a bit longer as a walk. You will also need to cross a busy road if you choose to walk and it will take about forty minutes. It’s in the same general area as the Comfort Inn, so you’ll have the Publix and restaurants nearby.

Beautiful Fishing Lake Front Home, Close To Beaches And Theme Parks, Sleeps 6 – This home is two bedrooms, two bathrooms and sleeps five. It’s on a lake and only a seven minute drive to Skydive DeLand. While it’s right next to the airport, you have to take the main road to get to Skydive DeLand.

Near Blue Springs

Blue Springs is actually in Orange City, but it’s right by DeLand. It’s one of the most popular springs in the state. In the summer you can swim, but in the winter it’s not allowed as the manatees come to Blue Springs by the hundreds to stay warm. If you want to prioritize visiting Blue Springs, here are some good options to consider.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Deland South, an IHG Hotel – This Holiday Inn is on the south side of DeLand, near the border of Orange City and is only 10 minutes from Blue Springs. It’s in a newer shopping plaza area, so there is a Publix grocery and plenty of chain restaurants.

Memories Fully Renovated Home with Huge Backyard! – This two bedroom, one bathroom home is less than five minutes by car from Blue Springs and sleeps up to five people.

Alling House – Only five minutes from Blue Springs, this historical stay is worth considering. It’s B&B style, but no breakfast, so keep that in mind. It’s in Orange City, but right be DeLand.

More DeLand Options

When considering the best area to stay in DeLand, Florida there are quieter stays that will require a bit more driving. However, DeLand is a small town, so the drive won’t be bad and you might find it worth it!

Hontoon Landing Resort & Marina – A 2 Star accommodation on the St. Johns River. It’s a quiet area as there is only one way in or out. Hontoon Island State Park is across the river, or you can rent a boat to enjoy the river and nearby lake!

The little Lake House – Beautiful Lake Front Cottage – Close to Everything – This beautiful home is on Lake Winnemissett. It’s very close to I-4, making trips to Orlando or Daytona easy. Downtown DeLand isn’t far either and you’ll have a beautiful lake view! It’s a 3/2 and sleeps six.

Rustic Retreat in the heart of Lake Helen – Lake Helen is by DeLand on the southeast side. It’s a quiet area and this beautiful home sleeps seven!

Riverfront DeLand Home w/ Pool, Near Daytona! – This beautiful home sits on the St. Johns River! Though this listing mentions it’s near Daytona, it’s further from Daytona than every other option listed because it’s on the west side of DeLand. It’s only about 12 minutes from downtown DeLand and Stetson, so it’s a great option! This 3/2 home sleeps ten and has a dock, kayaks and a pool!

FAQs About Staying in DeLand, Florida

Best Area to Stay in DeLand Florida

I hope this post was helpful and you were able to find the best area to stay in DeLand, Florida for your needs! DeLand has some great bike trails, beautiful Lake Woodruff trails, and there are plenty places to explore in the surrounding areas! The beauty of DeLand’s location means you can get inspiration from the best day trips from Orlando and day trips from Daytona Beach to fill your itinerary!

Whatever is bringing you to this charming town, I hope you have a wonderful stay!