Summary
Renowned as the home of the Magic Kingdom, Orlando is bustling with enthusiastic families throughout the year. However, it offers much more than just Disney attractions: the city is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes, beautiful Florida beaches, and captivating historical landmarks.
Moreover, Orlando is aesthetically pleasing – it has earned the nickname ‘the City Beautiful’ for good reason. Nonetheless, the city is undeniably famous for its theme parks, earning the title of the theme park capital of the world, a fact that is evident from the influx of over 68 million visitors annually.
Here are 15 notable day trips from Orlando:
1. Clearwater Beach
As the name suggests, Clearwater Beach is exceptionally picturesque. Its pristine white sands and vibrant turquoise waters offer an idyllic setting. Visitors can enjoy the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, making it perfect for a refreshing swim.
Feel free to pack a picnic or enjoy a meal at one of the charming seaside restaurants overlooking the bay.
Relax, unwind and soak up the sun at this beautiful location.
2. Florida Everglades
The Florida Everglades ranks among the state’s most celebrated natural attractions. Visitors can observe an array of beautiful flora and fauna, notably the iconic American alligator.
Maintain vigilance for these cunning reptiles, which often swim with their heads barely above water, creating a unique viewing experience. You can navigate the Everglades via an airboat, and may also have the opportunity to attend an animal handling demonstration conducted by experienced handlers.
3. Kennedy Space Centre
As one of the premier space centers in the United States, the Kennedy Space Centre provides an array of engaging activities, including interactive exhibits and IMAX screenings.
There is ample entertainment for visitors of all ages throughout the day. You may have the opportunity to touch a piece of moon rock, experience the sensation of a shuttle launch through cinematic technology, and view a fully restored Saturn V rocket.
Furthermore, the center offers insights into the history of space exploration, dating back to the iconic moment when Neil Armstrong took ‘one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.’
4. Disney World
A visit to Orlando would be incomplete without allocating time for Disney, even if it is just for an exhilarating day trip. The Magic Kingdom welcomes guests to meet beloved Disney characters, such as Snow White, Cinderella, and of course, Mickey Mouse, while enjoying thrilling rides and participating in street parades.
With six distinct themed lands, moments filled with wonder are guaranteed. Experience the Wild West in Frontierland, venture through the jungles of Adventureland, or reflect on colonial history in Liberty Square. This day trip is sure to be a memorable one.
5. Miami
Known as the playground of the affluent, Miami presents a striking contrast to Orlando’s theme parks. The city offers a wealth of attractions, from its impressive skyline to its beautiful beaches, providing numerous entertainment opportunities.
As a commercial, cultural, and financial hub, Miami delivers excellent dining options and pristine shorelines. With the third tallest skyline in the United States, it also features fantastic photo opportunities.
6. Homosassa State Park
The 210-acre Homosassa State Park is home to an abundance of natural wonders, including a delightful surprise in its waters: manatees. With some luck, you may spot these gentle giants while navigating the rivers, particularly in winter.
The park also hosts various wildlife, such as crocodiles, alligators, otters, herons, and flamingos, and even features a rescued hippo.
The walking trails throughout the park provide opportunities to observe creatures like panthers, bobcats, and black bears in their natural habitat.
7. New Smyrna Beach
New Smyrna Beach serves as a popular escape for locals, showcasing soft, white sands and a variety of amenities that attract visitors. The area is renowned for its fishing, surfing, and swimming opportunities.
Visitors can rent bikes to traverse the compacted sand or linger until nightfall during summer, when witnessing baby turtles hatching and making their way to the sea becomes a memorable event.
8. Blue Springs State Park
With another chance to encounter manatees, Blue Springs State Park is an appealing destination for families. The primary attraction here is a kayaking excursion, allowing visitors to paddle around the largest spring on the St. Johns River, explore Snake River, and visit Hontoon Island.
After parking your kayak, take time to appreciate the diverse wildlife, which includes wild hogs, bald eagles, and ospreys. The island also features walking trails, as well as a fascinating Native American shell mound located at the end of the main trail.
9. St Augustine
Channel your inner pirate with a visit to the cobblestone streets of St. Augustine, one of the oldest cities in the United States. The renowned Pirate and Treasure Museum serves as its main attraction, providing a thrilling experience for day-trippers.
Interactive displays abound, showcasing one of the world’s largest collections of pirate treasures. This museum has been recognized by the New York Post as one of the best in the world, making it a compelling reason to visit.
10. Lake Toho
Recognized as one of Florida’s premier bass fishing destinations, Lake Toho is an excellent location to engage in the sport. Visitors can opt for guided trips led by experts or explore independently if they are confident in their skills.
Guided trips ensure a high-quality experience as professionals impart valuable techniques and help enhance existing skills. Regardless of your choice, anticipate an impressive catch by the conclusion of your fishing excursion.
11. Daytona Beach
Daytona Beach presents a unique coastal destination, known as the birthplace of NASCAR racing and the host of the prestigious Daytona 500. While it attracts spring breakers during certain periods, it remains a fantastic getaway from Orlando throughout most of the year.
The beach boardwalk is perfect for families and features a variety of games, carnival rides, and beachfront dining alternatives.
12. Legoland Florida
Just one more theme park recommendation – and this one is particularly unique. Legoland Florida, themed around the beloved children’s toy, spans over 150 acres and boasts more than 50 rides that cater to all ages.
Located only an hour from downtown Orlando, the park also features numerous attractions suitable for younger children, which may not be found at other parks. After enjoying the rides, visitors can explore the botanical gardens or catch a live show, and finish the day by cooling off in the water park.
13. Devil’s Den
Located approximately an hour and a half from Orlando is the captivating natural wonder of Devil’s Den Springs. The fossil beds, dating back 33 million years, provide a unique attraction that allows visitors to swim in an underground cave.
Renowned for its stunning hot springs and a chimney extending to the surface, the steam rising from the opening on chilly winter mornings is what influenced the name of this site. The underground environment offers excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities, making it a compelling day-trip choice.
14. Gainesville
Gainesville provides a serene escape from Orlando’s fast-paced environment, showcasing the beauty of swamps. The Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, featuring the largest bamboo collection in Florida and the largest herb garden in the Southeast, offer an exceptional experience.
Visitors can explore 24 unique collections along paved walkways throughout the gardens, which also host numerous events throughout the year, such as the Spring Garden Festival and the enchanting Moonlight Walk.
The Moonlight Walk is a particularly remarkable event that allows participants to stroll through gardens illuminated by hundreds of strategically placed lights while enjoying live music.
15. Bok Tower Gardens
Nestled among exquisite gardens populated with endangered plant species, Bok Tower stands as an impressive monument that rings its bells daily at 1 PM and 3 PM. Constructed in 1929, this tower features around 60 bells that create a melodic chorus during the chiming.
The gardens also showcase two delightful walking trails, allowing visitors to meander through tranquil surroundings or relax by the waterside, soaking in the atmosphere. Inside the tower, informative displays narrate the history of its creation, and visitors have a chance to view the bells up close within one of the rooms. Conclusively, climbing to the top offers a breathtaking view of the beautiful scenery surrounding the monument.
