Summary:
- The Deltona Club
- Blue Spring State Park
- Persimmon Hollow Brewing Company
- Hontoon Island State Park
- Museum of Art – DeLand
- Seminole State Forest
- Henry A. DeLand House Museum
- Hit the Beach
- Universal Orlando
- LEGOLAND Florida Resort
- Harry P. Leu Gardens
- Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Kennedy Space Center
- Universal’s Volcano Bay
- Dayton Beach Symphony Society
Situated in east-central Florida, nestled between Orlando and Daytona Beach, Deltona stands as Volusia County’s most populous city. This city is strategically positioned near Lake Monroe, one of the largest lakes along the St. Johns River.
As a prime location amidst some of Florida’s most esteemed attractions, Deltona serves as an ideal base for experiencing the diverse offerings of the Sunshine State.
Visitors will find numerous options to fill their schedules; in fact, they may find it challenging to fit everything in.
Here are 15 highly recommended activities and sights in and around Deltona, Florida.
1. The Deltona Club
Florida is a renowned destination for golf enthusiasts, and the region surrounding Deltona boasts a variety of courses, ranging from high-end exclusive venues to municipal options that provide excellent value for budget-conscious travelers.
Located on Elkcam Boulevard, the Deltona Club, designed by a prominent golf course architect, has consistently earned recognition as one of the top 25 public courses in the state, a notable accolade given the abundance of over a thousand golf facilities in Florida.
The course provides lessons and seasonal offers; therefore, it is advisable to secure tee times online in advance of your visit.
2. Blue Spring State Park
Owing to its accessible location and stunning natural landscapes, Blue Spring State Park attracts numerous visitors throughout the year.
Situated along Florida’s St. Johns River, the park offers a range of outdoor activities, including SCUBA diving, camping, fishing, wildlife observation, and photography, which are among the finest in the state.
The park’s waters maintain a refreshing temperature of 72 degrees, regardless of external weather conditions, and there are numerous well-marked hiking trails as well as kayak rentals available.
To avoid crowds, early arrival is recommended. An economical per-vehicle entry fee is in place, and the park operates from 8 AM until sunset.
3. Persimmon Hollow Brewing Company
Florida’s high temperatures and humidity can create discomfort for outdoor activities, except when one is relaxing by a pool.
A popular alternative for cooling off is enjoying a refreshing craft beer in an air-conditioned environment.
Though Persimmon Hollow Brewing Company in DeLand has only been established for a few years, it has rapidly built a loyal clientele among local beer connoisseurs.
Renowned for their Belgian-style brews, the brewery is situated in the vibrant SoNY neighborhood, which offers a variety of culinary, artistic, and entertainment options.
4. Hontoon Island State Park
Florida is a treasure trove of state and national parks, and Hontoon Island State Park ranks among the most picturesque in the Deltona region.
The island is accessible by private boat, although most visitors prefer the ferry service operated by the park.
The ferry departs a few miles west of Deltona on State Route 44. In addition to recreational opportunities, the park boasts unique archaeological sites that were once inhabited by Native Americans.
A large portion of the island is covered with nature trails, and activities such as fishing, camping, and canoeing are highly regarded.
5. Museum of Art – DeLand
Positioned on North Woodland Boulevard, the Museum of Art – DeLand operates as a non-profit entity dedicated to providing the local community with a distinctive venue for various educational, instructive, and cultural programs aimed at enhancing community life.
The museum features two galleries, showcasing contemporary artworks across multiple mediums.
The displayed art is often vibrant and thought-provoking, encouraging visitors to reflect on its meanings and messages.
Admission costs are modest, and the museum is open daily, with the exception of Mondays. Visitors should plan for approximately an hour for their visit.
6. Seminole State Forest
Covering over 25,000 acres of protected land, Seminole State Forest, situated near Eustis, is managed by the Florida Department of Forestry.
For outdoor enthusiasts, this forest is an ideal setting for hiking and exploration.
It is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, providing significant wildlife viewing opportunities, and is also popular among anglers and hunters.
Seminole State Forest is open year-round, offering numerous miles of multi-use trails accessible to hikers, joggers, and mountain bikers.
Check their details for specific hunting and fishing regulations.
7. Henry A. DeLand House Museum
Located on Michigan Avenue in DeLand, the DeLand House was constructed in the 1880s. Although it was privately owned for much of its history, it was bequeathed to the city over a century later.
As one of the region’s best-preserved examples of Victorian architecture, it is now accessible to the public and operated by the West Volusia Historical Society.
The house and museum showcase a unique array of historic artifacts that provide insight into the lives of Central Florida residents over a century ago.
Visitors should allocate approximately an hour for their visit.
8. Hit the Beach
Throughout Florida, numerous attractions—natural, historical, and cultural—can keep travelers engaged for weeks. However, many visitors are primarily seeking the opportunity to unwind on the beach, enjoying the sun, sand, and surf.
With just a short drive from both Orlando and Deltona, Cocoa Beach is one of the state’s most iconic beaches; it is an exceptional locale for sunbathing and embracing the essence of Florida.
Offering a family-friendly atmosphere, Cocoa Beach provides ample dining and shopping options, and is also among the state’s premier surfing locations.
9. Universal Orlando
Universal Orlando is another highly frequented destination for families in Florida. For many families with children, it becomes the focal point of their vacation in the state.
With a multitude of rollercoasters and adrenaline-pumping rides, it promises excitement for visitors of all ages. Furthermore, a diverse array of live entertainment options, movie-themed attractions, and various dining and shopping venues are also available.
Unique historical exhibits featured in the park can serve as educational opportunities for the children as well.
Given that the park can become quite crowded during peak periods, it is advisable to visit early or during the off-peak season if you prefer a less hectic environment.
10. LEGOLAND Florida Resort
Children around the globe have enjoyed playing with Lego for generations, making LEGOLAND Florida Resort a captivating destination for families in the area.
Featuring numerous rides and a plethora of interactive exhibits that promote engagement and creativity, the resort also hosts live events that cater to visitors of all ages.
The venue combines elements of a museum, amusement park, and inclusive resort, offering various dining, lodging, and shopping alternatives. For many children, the experiences at LEGOLAND Florida Resort will become the highlight of their trip.
Refer to their website for operational hours, pricing, and a comprehensive list of activities.
11. Harry P. Leu Gardens
Comprising nearly 50 acres of exquisite gardens, Harry P. Leu Gardens is an oasis of tranquility and beauty conveniently located within the bustling city of Orlando.
The property and gardens were donated to the city in the 1960s, and they are open to the public daily.
Alongside several distinct gardens that showcase colorful native and non-native plants, the facility hosts a variety of events, including storytime for children, Mother’s Day celebrations, and live musical performances.
The expansive grounds provide an ideal setting for a picnic, allowing visitors to enjoy a leisurely lunch while listening to soothing jazz music.
12. Wizarding World of Harry Potter
For those enchanted by terms like ‘Hogwarts’ and ‘butterbeer,’ a visit to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Orlando is certainly warranted.
Boasting a diverse array of Harry Potter-themed attractions, the destination is iconic for fans of the beloved series.
Fortunately, individuals of all ages can enjoy butterbeer, an alcohol-free beverage that is completely kid-friendly.
Prepare for large crowds, so patience is advised upon your visit.
13. Kennedy Space Center
Since the late 1960s, the Kennedy Space Center has been pivotal to America’s space exploration efforts.
Situated on Merritt Island, along the Atlantic coast, it is located northwest of Cape Canaveral.
The visitor area is thoughtfully organized into distinct zones, each representing a specific sector or era of the space program, all accessible through guided tours that offer insider insights from knowledgeable staff.
Most group package tours commence in Orlando, including transportation, meals, and additional stops at local outlet shopping venues.
14. Universal’s Volcano Bay
Another popular attraction within Universal Orlando is its exciting waterpark, Volcano Bay.
This facility provides a fantastic escape from the Florida sun, with thrilling slides, rides, and wave pools, alongside numerous relaxing areas for guests who prefer to unwind.
A variety of entry passes—ranging from single-day to multi-day passes—are offered, some of which provide access to multiple Universal parks, proving to be particularly beneficial for families planning extended stays in the area.
Significant discounts are available for Florida residents, and online ticket purchasing options exist.
15. Dayton Beach Symphony Society
Established in the early 1950s, the Daytona Beach Symphony Society was founded by a group of musicians and music enthusiasts who aimed to elevate the cultural landscape of the expanding city.
In subsequent years, an all-volunteer symphony guild was formed, marking a significant development in the region’s musical heritage.
The society provides exceptional symphonic performances and a variety of cultural activities that enhance community life, remaining accessible to the public.
Situated in Daytona Beach’s Peabody Auditorium, additional information including directions and event calendars can be found on their website.