29 Best Day Trips from Orlando (with Driving Times)
Looking for the best day trips from Orlando? I’ve grown up in central Florida and I have plenty of options for you to choose from! Whether you’re looking to visit a Florida spring, wander around a small town, or you’re seeking adventure, I’ve got you covered!
I’ve added estimated driving times and to keep things consistent, the starting point for the best day trips from Orlando will be from Universal Studios. Since it’s a common spot on many Orlando itineraries and it’s closer to downtown Orlando than Disney, it makes sense to use it as the starting point. I’ll also be stating the fastest time in normal traffic, whether it involves a toll road or not.
While I have a lot of suggestions listed out in this article, it’s still not an exhaustive list! There are so many options, but the ones I’ve compiled have been put in various categories to help you find the right day trip for you and your family easily!
My Go-To Travel Tools
Hotels | Booking.com
Hotels & Cars | Expedia
Tours | Viator
Research & Hotels | Tripadvisor
Travel Insurance | Insubuy
Best Day Trips from Orlando Map
Nature & Florida Springs
When it comes to the best day trips from Orlando, Florida springs should be a top contender! There are plenty of options and some are quite close to Orlando!
Most of these parks will be super crowded on the weekends, so I recommend visiting during the week. If that’s not possible, you’ll want to arrive super early and some parks will require a reservation, so be sure to check on the specific rules for your chosen outing.
Wekiwa Springs State Park | 🚗 33 Minutes
Wekiwa Springs is a beautiful state park offering swimming, kayaking, or hiking. I’ve gone kayaking at Wekiwa and loved it! The swimming area is well marked and a large area, which is great for taking a picnic lunch and enjoying the park.
Blue Spring State Park | 🚗 52 Minutes
Blue Springs is one of the most popular parks for seeing manatees in the winter. It’s absolutely beautiful and I love that it feels less built up. The trees are in tact and offer a beautiful canopy around the water.
To see the manatees, you’ll want to visit on a cold day! The reason is manatees seek the warmer 72 degrees year round waters of the Florida springs, and hundreds will congregate at Blue Springs. If you visit Florida during the winter and the temperatures drop into the 40s or 30s, head to Blue Springs early to ensure you get in and there should be plenty of manatees to see!
You can also rent a kayak or canoe or take your own paddle board. In the summer, swimming is allowed or take your snorkel and explore! I did learn how to SCUBA dive here, so hit up the local dive shop if that’s of interest to you.
There is also a boat tour you can do of the area. St. Johns River Nature Cruise at Blue Spring State Park is highly rated and perfect for seeing beyond the springs into the St. Johns River.
DeLeon Springs State Park | 🚗 64 Minutes
DeLeon Springs State Park offers a big swimming area, but it is man-made and less magical than Blue Springs, in my opinion. However, swimming is typically permitted year round and you are more separated from the animals.
The last few times I’ve gone was to get pancakes at Old Spanish Sugar Mill. It’s a cook your own pancakes on the griddle which sits in the middle of the table, so if you have young kids it might not be a relaxing experience. It’s also not air conditioned so I don’t recommend it in the summer.
Besides swimming, you can rent a canoe or kayak and explore the river. Just note, the river is not clear, but it is beautiful.
Kelly Park – Rock Springs | 🚗 37 Minutes
Rock Springs has to be one of the most fun springs and it’s also one of the closest to Orlando, so it is a great one to consider.
I love this one (even though it’s been a while since my last visit), because it’s a lazy river. You can rent a tube and start at the top where the spring is located and then float down to the main swimming area.
The main swimming area is quite large and it’s a beautiful park to take a picnic and enjoy several hours when the weather is warm.
King’s Landing | 🚗 39 Minutes
King’s Landing has become Instagram famous, but I can confirm it’s truly beautiful! This is not a state park, and the only thing to do is to paddle up and down the river.
I took my own paddle board, but you can rent from them. Pre-book on their site and they also have tours offered if you prefer a guide. Alternatively, you can book this top rated tour that meets at King’s Landing: Rock Springs 2-Hour Glass Bottom Guided Kayak Eco Tour.
When I went, I remember passing some people with a cooler on their paddle board and loved how they were making a day of it! You can get out at different areas, but the water tends to be shallow. Overall, this is a beautiful outing!
Ocala’s Many Springs | 🚗 1 Hour 20 Minutes +
The Ocala area has so many springs to choose from, so you could actually tour a few if you wanted. This is among the best day trips from Orlando for nature lovers!
Silver Springs is beautiful and known for their glass bottom boats. However, I went paddle boarding there in recent years and loved it! There’s a five mile downstream paddle I especially enjoyed and the fee includes pickup at the end. No swimming is allowed and I did see a lot of gators, so if you’d prefer a guide for a kayak outing, these tours are great options: Glass Bottom Kayak Tours of Silver Springs or Silver Springs Paddle Board Adventure.
Silver Glen Springs is a popular spring with the boaters, but I visited recently on a weekday and it was beautiful! There were only a handful of houseboats on the water and very few people overall. There is a sizable swimming area where no boats are allowed, but it can be obnoxious on the weekends with all the party boats around. Also, if you go on the weekend, you’ll need to book a reservation as it gets packed!
More options in Ocala area include Juniper Springs, Alexander Springs and Salt Springs!
Rainbow Springs | 🚗 1 Hour 34 Minutes
I’ve never been to Rainbow Springs, but I’ve heard it has a long lazy river. My teenage nephew found it boring, but honestly it sounds wonderful to me!
Crystal River | 🚗 1 Hour 38 Minutes
If you’re wondering how to swim with manatees in Florida, Crystal River is the place! This is the only county in Florida you are allowed to swim with manatees and Crystal River is the number one area.
I did the The ‘OG’ Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Guide/Photographer and had a great experience! For the best chance of seeing and swimming with the manatees, go on a cold day. If it’s not super cold, go early in the morning as that will increase your odds. They do provide wetsuits, but it’s a very cold experience overall so keep that in mind!
Beaches & Coastal Escapes
When talking about the best day trips from Orlando, we can’t fail to mention my favorite kind of day, a beach day! I know a lot of families will split their vacation between Disney and time at the beach, but if you’re just wanting to spend one day, here are some great options to consider.
Canaveral National Seashore | 🚗 1 Hour 17 Minutes
There are actually two sides to the Canaveral National Seashore, but I recommend the New Smyrna side over the Titusville side for a quieter experience. There are not usually lifeguards and I do find the currents are stronger in some parts of the Canaveral Seashore.
New Smyrna Beach | 🚗 1 Hour 6 Minutes
In order to get to the Canaveral Seashore you will have to pass Titusville or New Smyrna. The latter is a popular beach, especially for surfing. There are areas you can drive on the beach in New Smyrna and I love all the local restaurant options here. Flagler Avenue offers a charming small town vibe perfect for a stroll.
Cocoa Beach | 🚗 1 Hour 7 Minutes
Cocoa Beach is another popular surfing spot in Florida. The big Ron Jon Surf Shop is here, as well as the ode to Kelly Slater since it is where he’s from. The Kennedy Space Center is nearby, but it would be a lot to enjoy the Space Center and the beach. However, if there is a scheduled launch, you could do both!
Daytona Beach | 🚗 1 Hour 7 Minutes
Daytona Beach is known for its iconic driving beach, but the last couple hurricanes really washed out our beaches. This whole summer they have been working on restoring the beach, but to be safe you’ll want a 4 wheel drive.
Of course, your Daytona Beach itinerary can also include NASCAR or you can visit the boardwalk. Head to Ponce Inlet for the tallest lighthouse in Florida!
Clearwater Beach or St. Pete | 🚗 1 Hour 44 Minutes
Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach are popular beaches on the west coast of Florida. They are known for white sand and usually clear water. My only caution is for late July and August as the water temperature can be too warm, in a gross and not refreshing way.
If you want a beach day without having to rent a car: Clearwater Beach Day Trip from Orlando with Upgrade Options.
Charming Towns & Small-City Escapes
Florida is more than theme parks and beaches! There are quite a few cute towns and charming streets to explore! If you’re looking for the best day trips from Orlando and want to explore cute areas, these options are worth considering!
Winter Park | 🚗 24 Minutes
Winter Park is a more upscale, charming town. They also have plenty of great restaurants to try as well! You’ll want to head to Park Avenue to stroll the charming street. Briarpatch is super popular for brunch, but get there early on the weekends! Prato is also popular and I love the bread appetizer from Bosphorous.
For some nature, you’ll want to explore the Winter Park chain of lakes. You can book a scenic boat tour, or book the Clear Kayak Sunset Tour through The Winter Park Chain of Lakes.
Of course, Winter Park is not just Park Avenue. Head to East End Market for a variety of vendors. It’s also home to the original Gideon’s Bakehouse (they also have a location at Disney Springs), which makes delicious cookies! Hillstone Restaurant is a really good restaurant with a great location overlooking the lake. It’s been a while, but I used to be obsessed with the brick toast dessert at Krungthep Tea Time, so head there for a good dessert or Thai tea or coffee.
Winter Garden | 🚗 26 Minutes
Winter Garden is one of the cutest areas! I haven’t been in a while, but it has so many great little shops and restaurants! I’ve enjoyed exploring Winter Garden and I love Plant St. Market. I’ve also heard good things about Three Birds Cafe and Rosallie Le French Cafe, but there are so many good options!
If you want some nature, head towards the lake. My friend got married by this lake and I can confirm it’s beautiful. There are various parks to choose from or rent bikes and enjoy the bike trail!
Mount Dora | 🚗 41 Minutes
It’s been years since I last visited Mount Dora, but it’s a charming small town! Go antique shopping, enjoy their restaurants, or explore their lake! For something unique, check out CatBoat Adventure Tours.
DeLand | 🚗 50 Minutes
I grew up this small town. It has a charming, historic downtown with boutique shops, cafes, and art galleries. DeLand is also known as a top location for skydiving! If you’re looking for the best things to do in DeLand, I have a dedicated post.
Blue Springs and DeLeon Springs are by DeLand and Daytona is only 30 minutes, so heading this way is among the best day trips from Orlando as you’ll have plenty of options.
For more on DeLand check out: 15 Best Things to Do in DeLand, Florida (From a Local)
Sanford | 🚗 39 Minutes
Sanford is another charming downtown area and it’s also by a lake! You will pass Sanford on I-4 before DeLand. Arguably the most popular restaurant in Sanford is Hollerbach’s German Restaurant. My personal favorite meal in Sanford is the mahi sandwich from The Current Seafood Bar (my favorite fish sandwich outside of Barbados). They used to be in Henry’s Depot, but now have their own location.
St. Augustine | 🚗 1 Hour 50 Minutes
The oldest city is definitely a worthwhile day trip from Orlando, but it is close to two hours one way so keep that in mind. Of course, there is plenty to see and do once you’re there! Historical sites like Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, good restaurants and charming shops in old town, a lighthouse, and a beach!
While St. Augustine might be a bit of a trek, it’s definitely worthwhile as an Orlando day trip!
Unique Experiences & Attractions
You know Orlando has Disney and Universal, but there are other options to consider if you want to mix it up a bit!
Kennedy Space Center | 🚗 1 Hour
When it comes to the best day trips from Orlando for families, the Kennedy Space Center has to be in the running! Whether you visit the center or head there to watch a launch up close, it’s definitely one of the unique and fun things to do in Florida!
I remember loving the Kennedy Space Center as a kid, and some friends of mine went recently and loved it! Overall, I’d say it’s fun and interesting for the whole family!
Over 900 5-Star Reviews! You can choose transport only or add-on various activities. Perfect if you don’t want to rent a car: Kennedy Space Center with Transport from Orlando and Kissimmee
Gatorland | 🚗 25 Minutes
Gatorland is in Orlando, but they offer wildlife shows, ziplining, and alligator encounters. I remember going as a kid, but now as an adults I see alligators plenty in the wild. Either way, Gatorland offers education and fun!
While these animals are in captivity, places like this are educational as well as entertaining. There was a news story of a young girl who was attacked by a gator in the wild. She learned what to do at Gatorland and actually had the presence of mind to jam her fingers up the nostrils of the gator and she survived!
Hot Air Balloon Rides | 🚗 33 Minutes
I’ve never done this in Florida, but it was the highlight of my 4 days in Mexico City. We did the Teotihuacán Mexico Hot Air Balloon Tour and got to see the pyramids from the hot air balloon.
It’s an early wake up call, but floating and enjoying the sunrise is bucket list worthy! Air Hound Adventures (Hot Air Balloon Ride) has great reviews, but there are other options as well!
Adventure & Water Activities
With thousands of miles of coastline and countless lakes and rivers, Florida is not short on water activities! When it comes to the best day trips from Orlando, I love this category because I love water and adventure!
Kayaking or Paddleboarding Tours
There are more options than this, but these are well rated and beautiful experiences! If I was visiting, I’d choose the Rock Springs 2-Hour Glass Bottom Guided Kayak Eco Tour as King’s Landing is gorgeous and it’s one of the closest options! Second would be Blue Springs if you’re willing to drive a bit more.
I added a Bioluminescence tour, but it hasn’t been good the last two years. However, if you are visiting in July or August and the Bioluminescence is strong, it’s one of the most magical and bucket list worthy experiences!
- Clear Kayak Sunset Tour through The Winter Park Chain of Lakes | Winter Park 🚗 24 Minutes
- Clear Kayak Manatee Ecotour of Crystal River | Crystal River 🚗 1 Hour 38 Minutes
- Manatee Discovery Kayak Tour for Small Groups near Orlando | Blue Springs 🚗 52 Minutes
- Glass Bottom Kayak Tours of Silver Springs | Silver Springs 🚗 1 Hour 34 Minutes
- Rock Springs 2-Hour Glass Bottom Guided Kayak Eco Tour | King’s Landing 🚗 40 Minutes
- Florida Bioluminescence Kayaking Tour | Haulover canal (Titusville) | 🚗 1 Hour 14 Minutes
Zipline Adventures
I haven’t been to the Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park, but it’s definitely your closest option and they have good reviews.
If you’re heading out to Ocala, I did the The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park and loved it! There’s a really long zipline over a lake and it was beautiful!
Airboat Rides in the Everglades or Central Florida Marshes
Airboat rides are loud, but fun! It’s a great way to spot wildlife and explore the Florida lakes and marsh.
- Florida Everglades Airboat Tour and Wild Florida Admission with Optional Lunch | 🚗 51 Minutes
- CENTRAL FLORIDA’S BEST PRICED eco-friendly airboat rides | 🚗 30 Minutes
- One-Hour Airboat Ride Near Orlando | 🚗 51 Minutes
- 1-Hour Sunset Airboat Ride near Orlando | 🚗 51 Minutes
Swim with Manatees | Crystal River 🚗 1 Hour 38 Minutes
When considering how to swim with manatees in Florida, there is only one county that allows it and the most popular place within that county is Crystal River. If you are visiting Florida during the winter, then this should be among the best days trips from Orlando for you!
Once the temperature drops, manatees head to various springs throughout the state as the water is 72 degrees year round. This makes it easy to see manatees at places like Blue Springs, or snorkel with them at Crystal River.
- The ‘OG’ Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Guide/Photographer
- Semi-Private Manatee snorkeling with In Water Guide
- Most Popular 3hr Manatee Swim Tour In-Water Guide!
To hear more about how these tours work, check out my post:
How to Swim with Manatees in Florida | My Experience & Top Advice
Rent a Pontoon Boat
There are plenty of areas you can rent a pontoon boat and enjoy a day on the Florida lakes and rivers! I know in DeLand, you can rent them near Hontoon Island at Holly Bluff Marina and either take the boat toward Blue Springs or for a full day to Silver Glen Springs.
If you enjoy being on the water, renting a boat is one of the best day trips from Orlando you can do!
If you want the experience without having to rent and drive the pontoon boat, a tour is perfect for you! Pontoon Pub Crawl, 5 Lakeside Pubs and Restaurants Visit by Boat is highly rated and about 51 minutes by car from Orlando.
Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari
Wild Florida Drive-thru Safari Park and Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive are two safari type drives offered in central Florida. They are each in opposite directions, so I’d suggest the Wild Florida Drive-thru if you plan to do an airboat tour as many are in that same direction.
I haven’t done these but my friend did the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive and said it was fun. It’s only open on the weekends, so keep that in mind! There is a semi-private tour offered of Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive and a moonshine tasting, but you can also just visit on your own. It’s about 31 minutes by car, so an easy day trip from Orlando.
- Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari and Gator Park Admission | 🚗 48 Minutes
- Florida Wildlife Drive Eco Tour with Lunch and Moonshine Tasting | Offers Pick-up
Horseback Ride
I’ve done horse back riding less than a handful of times in my life and each time has been super memorable! Yes, New Zealand and Iceland are epic destinations in their own right, but I’m slightly afraid of animals, so the horseback rides are etched in my memory!
The Horseback Ride on Scenic Lake Louisa Trails is a top rated experience with one reviewer giving it “1000 stars.” While there are more options than this one, it’s only about 37 minutes by car, making it a great one to consider!
Sunrail & Brightline
Sunrail
The sunrail operates during the week and stops at a lot of charming towns. You can hop on the sunrail in Kissimmee (which also has a cute downtown area), and then head north as far as DeLand.
The Winter Park stop is right on Park Avenue, so that is one of the best and easiest stops! Church Street in Orlando is a good one if you wanted to explore some of Orlando itself.
Stops for Sanford and DeLand will require a ride from the train station to the downtown area. Sanford offers a free trolley starting at 12PM, but check the Sunrail site for the most up-to-date schedule. DeLand offers a Votran Circulator from 9AM to 5PM. It’s free if you show your Sunrail ticket one way and $2 for the return. I haven’t used either, but any issues should be sorted by now as the Sunrail has been open a while!
Brightline
Brightline offers a quick train journey to Miami, with additional stops before. With Miami being about 3.5 hours on the Brightline, it’s not significantly faster unless there’s traffic (but there’s usually traffic these days).
I have taken the Brightline to Fort Lauderdale when I spent 4 days in Miami and the whole experience was great! You can make stops at many south Florida destinations including West Palm, Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale and of course, Miami.
If you leave early enough and return late enough, it could be worth a day trip from Orlando, but it will be a lot of travel time in one day! South Florida has a lot to offer, so you may want to make that a more significant part of your Florida itinerary.
FAQ
What is the closest beach to Orlando?
Cocoa Beach is often considered the closest beach to Orlando, but New Smyrna and Daytona Beach are about the same distance! Any of these beaches will take just over an hour from Orlando in normal traffic.
Can you do a day trip to Miami from Orlando?
You can do a day trip, but I wouldn’t say it’s worth it! It takes three to four hours by Brightline or car ONE WAY, so you will spend a lot of time getting to and from Miami.
What is the best springs near Orlando?
Wekiwa Springs State Park and Kelly Park – Rock Springs are the closest to Orlando and both offer a great overall experience.
For kayaking or paddle boarding, King’s Landing (privately owned) is near Rock Springs and a great option as well!
Do you need a car for day trips from Orlando?
There are ways around needing a car, but you will have way more options and freedom if you do have a car! However, here are some basic approaches you could make.
Uber or Lyft can be used for any areas, but you’ll pay a premium for the further distances. Of course, if you are splitting the fares it could be worth it! You could also get a ride share to the closest Sunrail station and explore small towns along the Sunrail lines. Another option is to book a tour that offers pickup and dropoff like Kennedy Space Center with Transport from Orlando and Kissimmee.
More Florida Posts to Help You Plan Your Trip:
- Things to Pack for Florida | Local Advice by Season and Region
- Your Ultimate Daytona Beach Itinerary: Things to Do, See, and Experience
- Where to Stay in Daytona Beach | A Local’s Advice
- How to Swim with Manatees in Florida | My Experience & Top Advice
- 15 Best Things to Do in DeLand, Florida (From a Local)
Best Day Trips from Orlando
I hope this list of best day trips from Orlando has helped you decide what is best for your trip! Whether you want some old Florida vibes, beautiful springs, a fun beach day, or sporty adventures, you will not lack any options when considering day trips from Orlando!
Whatever you decide to add to your Florida itinerary, I hope you have the best time!
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