Orlando, situated in central Florida, is a perfect vacation spot for day journeys. Its central place affords quite a few alternatives to discover the encircling areas and have plenty of enjoyable alongside the best way. Whether or not you’re all for nature, historical past, or thrilling adventures, day journeys from Orlando provide a wide range of choices to swimsuit everybody’s preferences.
Having lived in Orlando for nearly 13 years, I’ve had the chance to take a number of day journeys to numerous close by locations, all inside an affordable distance. Orlando is thought for its proximity to a number of fashionable locations, which make for preferrred days out. For those who’re searching for day journeys, and issues to do within the USA, think about setting off for a day of journey from Orlando, Florida.
Finest Day Journeys From Orlando
I’ve compiled an inventory of the 15 finest day journeys from Orlando. This listing of journeys from Orlando affords a wide range of experiences, from historic cities to stunning seashores and pure wonders. So, pack your baggage and prepare to discover the most effective that Central Florida has to supply.
1. Go to the Kennedy Area Middle
A preferred day journey from Orlando is to the Kennedy Area Middle. Situated on the east coast of Florida, this NASA facility is a must-visit for area fans. Guests can discover interactive reveals and even meet actual astronauts. It’s an unbelievable expertise that provides a glimpse into the wonders of area exploration.
Certainly one of my favourite issues concerning the Kennedy Area Middle is that it’s attainable to catch a real-life area launch, if luck (and timing), is in your facet. For these lucky sufficient to be current throughout a launch, the expertise is totally awe-inspiring. The Kennedy Area Middle affords an unparalleled alternative to witness the wonders of area exploration up shut.
Distance from Orlando: 49 minutes or 51.4 miles
Location: Area Commerce Manner, Merritt Island, FL 32953
Getting There: The easiest way to get to the Kennedy Area Middle from Orlando is to take FL 407 N to FL 528 E.
Finest Tour from Orlando: Kennedy Area Middle Tour & Transport from Orlando and Kissimmee
Should-Do Actions: Go to the Rocket Backyard, which contains a historic rockets and spacecraft assortment, or strive the Astronaut Coaching Expertise.
The place to Eat: A favourite spot of mine close to the Kennedy Area Middle is the Area Bar – a rooftop bar providing scrumptious cocktails, small snacks, and sandwiches.
2. Discover the Historic Metropolis of St. Augustine
St. Augustine is a wonderful vacation spot for a day journey from Orlando. This notable metropolis affords a variety of sights and actions which can be certain to captivate guests of all ages. One of many fundamental highlights of St. Augustine is its wealthy historical past. Based in 1565, it’s the oldest constantly occupied European-established settlement in the USA.
Guests can discover the town’s historic district, full of well-preserved colonial-era buildings, cobblestone streets, and charming courtyards. The Castillo de San Marcos, a Seventeenth-century fortress, is a must-visit for historical past lovers. Along with its significance to the realm, St. Augustine boasts stunning seashores and gorgeous pure landscapes.
Distance from Orlando: 1 hr 41 minutes or 104.6 miles
Location: St. Augustine, FL, USA
Getting There: The easiest way to get to St Augustine from Orlando is to take I-4 E to I-95 N.
Finest Tour from Orlando: St Augustine Day Journey with Tour Choices
Should-Do Actions: My favourite factor to do is to go to the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. I realized concerning the metropolis’s early historical past on the archaeological park, noticed a duplicate of the famed fountain, and explored the plush gardens.
The place to Eat: One of many high eating locations in St. Augustine is the Colombia Restaurant. Located within the historic district, this restaurant affords a pleasant culinary expertise. Certainly one of their standout dishes (and considered one of my favorites) is Columbia’s Unique “1905” Salad.
3. Spend a Day at Clearwater Seashore
Clearwater Seashore is a perfect vacation spot selection for a day journey from Orlando. This beautiful seaside affords breathtaking views and is thought for its stunning seashores and white sand. Clearwater Seashore is undoubtedly the proper place for stress-free and taking advantage of your getaway.
Along with its pure magnificence, this spot affords a spread of actions and sights. Since I like to be out on the water, jet snowboarding, paddleboarding, and dolphin-watching are a few of my favourite issues to do whereas right here.
Distance from Orlando: 1 hr 55 minutes or 105.4 miles
Location: Clearwater, Seashore-Clearwater, Florida
Getting There: The easiest way to get to Clearwater Seashore from Orlando is to take I-4 W.
Finest Tour from Orlando: Day Journey to Clearwater with Sea Screamer Journey
Should-Do Actions: Don’t miss the breathtaking sundown views at Pier 60. This iconic pier hosts a energetic sundown celebration each night that includes road performers, artisans, and dwell music. I like to seize a spot on the seaside, benefit from the vibrant environment, and witness the mesmerizing colours of the sundown.
The place to Eat: My favourite place to eat whereas at Clearwater Seashore is the Palm Pavillion. This restaurant serves scrumptious native craft beers and wonderful seafood dishes.
4. Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is a implausible possibility for a enjoyable day journey from Orlando. The park is residence to a wide range of native Florida wildlife, together with manatees, alligators, black bears, and panthers. One of many highlights of the park is the underwater observatory, the place guests can get an up-close have a look at manatees of their pure habitat.
Along with the underwater observatory, the park affords a number of different sights and actions. There are guided wildlife excursions, the place educated park rangers share fascinating details about the animals and their actions. Friends of the park may get pleasure from boat excursions alongside the Homosassa River, the place dolphins, osprey, and different wildlife could be noticed.
Distance from Orlando: 1 hr 28 minutes or 86.5 miles
Location: 9350 W Fishbowl Dr, Homosassa, FL 34448, United States (entrance)
Getting There: The easiest way to get to Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park is to take the Florida Turnpike.
Finest Tour from Orlando: Swim with Manatees and Homosassa State Park Go to
Should-Do Actions: Strive a every day wildlife encounter program. These packages enable guests to study extra about and work together with a few of Florida’s most fascinating wildlife. From manatees and alligators to birds and reptiles, guests can get a close-up have a look at these wonderful creatures and even take part in feeding classes.
The place to Eat: My go-to is the Grill at Pepper Creek. This restaurant is situated throughout the picturesque environment of Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. It’s an amazing place to seize a fast chunk or get pleasure from an off-the-cuff meal.
5. Kayak the Econlockhatchee River
Kayaking the Econlockhatchee River is a good day journey from Orlando. Its proximity to the town makes it a handy selection for out of doors fans trying to escape the hustle and bustle of the town. The river affords a serene and picturesque setting; good for a romantic day journey from Orlando.
As you paddle alongside the river, you’ll be surrounded by lush vegetation and ample wildlife. The Econlockhatchee River is thought for its numerous ecosystem, which gives a habitat for varied hen species, turtles, and alligators. It actually is a nature lover’s paradise.
Distance from Orlando: 37 minutes or 33.8 miles
Location: Florida 32754, USA
Getting There: This can be a nice day journey from Orlando by automobile. All it’s a must to do is drive on FL 417-N.
Finest Tour from Orlando: Kayaking the Econlockhatchee River
Should-Do Actions: One must-do exercise is kayaking; exploring the river’s pure magnificence at your personal tempo. The river’s calm waters make it a perfect location for rookies and skilled kayakers. Immerse your self within the tranquility of the environment, taking within the lush vegetation and the soothing sounds of nature – you would possibly even be fortunate sufficient to identify manatees (I’ve noticed these light giants, also called sea cows, many instances within the river’s waters).
The place to Eat: Be certain to seize a chunk at The 1 Cantina – a Mexican restaurant close to the river. They serve nice meals and every part from Margaritas to Mezcal Cocktails.
6. Discover the Everglades in Kissimmee
The Everglades is a captivating pure wonderland that provides a singular alternative to discover the ample wildlife and a few breathtaking landscapes. Some of the thrilling methods to expertise this exceptional ecosystem is by taking a guided airboat tour.
Not solely does this space present an exhilarating journey, but it surely additionally permits guests to look at alligators of their pure surroundings. These historic reptiles, with their spectacular dimension and fearsome look, have lengthy captivated the creativeness of tourists. Make sure to have your digital camera prepared!
Distance from Orlando: 30 Minutes or 22.0 Miles
Location: The Everglades
Getting There: The easiest way to get to the Everglades from Orlando is to take the Florida Turnpike or I-4.
Finest Tour from Orlando: 90 Minutes Everglades Airboat Tour in Central Florida
Should-Do Actions: One of many must-do actions is an airboat tour. Embarking on an airboat tour affords a singular and thrilling alternative to discover the huge and numerous ecosystem of the Everglades.
The place to Eat: Granny’s Southern Smokehouse is a private favourite with regards to eating out. This cozy restaurant affords a pleasant number of Southern delicacies that can fulfill any cravings. Among the many many scrumptious choices on the menu, one dish that I extremely suggest is the pulled pork sandwich.
7. Head to Worldwide Drive
An incredible day journey from Orlando is to move off and discover Worldwide Drive. This bustling strip affords an array of thrilling actions and sights that can preserve you entertained all through the day. From world-class procuring to thrilling amusement parks, there’s one thing for everybody right here.
One of many highlights of Worldwide Drive is its intensive collection of procuring choices. Whether or not you’re searching for designer manufacturers, distinctive souvenirs, or fashionable boutiques, you’re certain to seek out no matter you’re after, (and sure extra). Well-liked procuring locations embody the Orlando Worldwide Premium Shops and the Pointe Orlando procuring complicated.
Distance from Orlando: 21 Minutes or 15.6 Miles
Location: Worldwide Dr, Florida, USA
Getting There: The easiest way to get to Worldwide Drive from Orlando is to take I-4.
Finest Tour from Orlando: Flavors of Icon Park Foodie Strolling Tour
Should-Do Actions: This iconic strip has one thing for everybody – from world-class theme parks to procuring complexes and eating venues. Among the many many sights, considered one of my favorites is Ripley’s Imagine It or Not! Museum.
The place to Eat: Cooper’s Hawk Vineyard and Restaurant is an internationally acclaimed eating institution on Worldwide Drive. Famend for its distinctive meals and stylish ambiance, it’s earned a status as among the best locations to eat within the space.
8. Take a Furry Pal to Daytona Seashore
Daytona Seashore is the proper vacation spot for a straightforward day journey. Recognized for its gorgeous seashores and enjoyable environment, you’ll discover a wide range of actions for guests of all ages right here. One of many fundamental sights of Daytona Seashore is its stunning shoreline. With over 23 miles of white sandy seashores, loads of area exists for sunbathing, swimming, and constructing sandcastles.
For those who want land actions, this spot additionally affords a variety of non-sea-related actions. I get pleasure from strolling alongside the boardwalk and having fun with the energetic ambiance; residence to numerous retailers, eating places, and amusement rides, Daytona Seashore gives leisure for all the household.
Distance from Orlando: 58 Minutes or 56.9 Miles
Location: Daytona Seashore, FL, USA
Getting There: The easiest way to get to Daytona Seashore from Orlando is to take I-4 E.
Finest Tour from Orlando: E-Bike Tour on the World’s Most Well-known Seashore
Should-Do Actions: For those who’re planning a visit to Daytona Seashore, try the automobile races – a must-see for any motorsports fanatic or thrill-seeker. Daytona Worldwide Speedway is the center of racing in Daytona Seashore. This iconic venue hosts a number of main automobile races all year long, together with the famend Daytona 500, which kicks off the NASCAR season.
The place to Eat: One of many highlights for me is the Ocean Deck restaurant. This fashionable venue is thought for its dwell music and breathtaking views of the shoreline.
9. Go to the Bok Tower Gardens
The Bok Tower Gardens is an fascinating place to go to close to Orlando, Florida. Situated in Lake Wales, this gorgeous backyard and hen sanctuary affords guests a singular and enchanting expertise. The principle attraction is the Singing Tower – a 205-foot neo-Gothic tower that homes one of many world’s most interesting carillons.
Surrounding the tower is a superbly manicured backyard that spans 250 acres. Guests can stroll alongside the winding paths, discovering varied vegetation, flowers, and bushes alongside the best way. The gardens are meticulously maintained and provide breathtaking views at each flip.
Distance from Orlando: 1 Hour 30 Minutes or 55.9 Miles
Location: 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853
Getting There: The easiest way to get to the Bok Tower Gardens from Orlando is to take I-4 W to US Hwy 27 S.
Should-Do Actions: The gardens, spanning over 250 acres, function a various assortment of vegetation, flowers, and bushes. I extremely suggest embarking on a guided tour for these searching for a extra immersive expertise – I realized a lot! Educated guides will lead you thru the gardens, offering fascinating insights into the historical past and significance of every space.
The place to Eat: I had the chance to dine on the Blue Palmetto Cafe – an eatery that provides a tasty array of sandwiches, wraps, beer, and wine amidst the breathtaking great thing about the backyard environment.
10. Discover the town of Clermont
For those who’re searching for a enjoyable day journey from Orlando, think about visiting the close by metropolis of Clermont. Providing a spread of thrilling actions and sights, a day spent right here is certain to make your journey all of the extra satisfying. One of many high issues to do in Clermont is to discover its stunning pure environment.
Clermont can also be residence to a number of wineries, making it an amazing vacation spot for wine lovers. You possibly can go to the Lakeridge Vineyard and Vineyards, the place you’ll be able to take a tour of the vineyard, study concerning the winemaking course of, and pattern a few of their award-winning wines. The vineyard additionally hosts varied occasions all year long, together with dwell music concert events and festivals.
Distance from Orlando: 33 Minutes or 25.3 Miles
Location: Clermont, FL, USA
Getting There: The easiest way to get to Clermont from Orlando is to take FL-408 W and FL-50 W.
Finest Tour from Orlando: Revolution Off-Street Mucky Duck Expertise
Should-Do Actions: For historical past and tradition, a go to to the President’s Corridor of Fame is a should. This distinctive museum showcases a set of wax figures portraying all of the US presidents and their presidencies, in addition to reveals on American historical past. Discover the South Lake Historic Society Museum, which affords a glimpse into the wealthy historical past of the Clermont space.
The place to Eat: Friar Tuck, a British cafe, is undeniably among the best locations to fulfill your cravings for tasty meals. In relation to eating right here, there are two dishes that I by no means fail to order – their mouthwatering fish and chips and their hen pot pie. Other than these two standout dishes, Friar Tuck affords a wide range of different scrumptious choices.
11. Get pleasure from a Enjoyable-Crammed day at Legoland
Legoland Theme Park in Lakeland, simply outdoors of Orlando, is a implausible vacation spot for a fun-filled day. This amusement park is a must-visit for households and Lego fans alike. With its distinctive mix of interactive sights, thrilling rides, and spectacular Lego sculptures, this theme park affords an unforgettable expertise.
Along with the rides and sights, Legoland affords a wide range of reveals and leisure choices. The 4D cinema provides an additional dimension to film viewing, with particular results that interact all of the senses. The Lego Metropolis Stage gives dwell performances and interactive experiences which can be certain to captivate guests of all ages.
Distance from Orlando: 1 Hour 3 Minutes or 51.6 Miles
Location: One Legoland Manner, Winter Haven, FL, 33884
Getting There: The easiest way to get to Legoland from Orlando is by I-4 W and US Hwy 27 S.
Should-Do Actions: Miniland USA, the place guests can marvel at intricate Lego replicas of well-known landmarks from across the nation. For a extra adrenaline-fueled journey, Legoland boasts a number of thrilling rides. The Dragon Coaster takes riders on an exciting journey by way of a medieval fort, whereas the Flying College affords a simulated flight expertise.
The place to Eat: The Market Restaurant is the most effective place to eat at LEGOLAND Florida. Situated within the coronary heart of the park, this eating possibility affords all kinds of selections to fulfill each palate. The Market Restaurant is a quick-service restaurant that gives company with a handy and scrumptious eating expertise.
12. Go to Mount Dora from Orlando
Mount Dora is a implausible vacation spot for a day journey. It’s considered one of my favourite locations to go to, providing many actions and sights that make for a memorable time out. One of many highlights of visiting Mount Dora is exploring the charming downtown space. The streets are lined with quaint retailers, artwork galleries, and vintage shops, providing a singular procuring expertise.
For those who’re a nature fanatic, Mount Dora gained’t disappoint. Town is surrounded by stunning lakes, making it the proper spot for boating, fishing, or just having fun with a leisurely lakeside picnic. You can too hire a kayak or paddleboard and discover the serene waters, taking within the peaceable ambiance of the environment.
Distance from Orlando: 36 Minutes or 33.4 Miles
Location: Mt Dora, FL 32757, USA
Getting There: The easiest way to get to Mount Dora from Orlando is to take FL 429-N.
Should-Do Actions: Merely Lake Dora itself, boat, fish, and take seaplane rides. Go to the historic downtown space and its charming retailers, artwork galleries, and eating places. The Mount Dora Neighborhood Constructing and Gilbert Park is a should for nature lovers. Out of doors actions embody mountain climbing trails, picnic areas, and a playground for youngsters.
The place to Eat: The Mount Dora Bistro is a captivating institution within the coronary heart of Mount Dora. When visiting this pleasant city, I can’t resist the attract of this restaurant and the delectable meals it affords. The bistro caters to a variety of tastes and preferences with its reasonably priced menu.
13. Take a Journey to the Florida Mall
A novel day journey from Orlando could be discovered on the Florida Mall. This vacation spot affords a wide range of actions and sights that can preserve guests entertained all through the day. Whether or not you’re touring alone, with pals, or with household, there’s one thing for everybody to get pleasure from.
One of many highlights of the Florida Mall, and a private favourite of mine, is the Construct-A-Bear Workshop. This interactive expertise permits guests to create their very personal customized stuffed animals. From selecting the proper bear to deciding on outfits and equipment, this workshop gives a enjoyable and memorable exercise for youngsters and adults alike.
Distance from Orlando: 19 Minutes or 7.3 Miles
Location: 8001 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32809
Getting There: The easiest way to get to the Florida Mall from Orlando is to take US-441 to Orange Blossom Path S.
Finest Tour from Orlando: Crayola Expertise
Should-Do Actions: The Crayola Expertise – extremely rated, this interactive and hands-on exhibit permits guests to discover the world of Crayola by way of varied inventive actions and exhibitions. From coloring stations and video games to a digital actuality expertise, the Crayola Expertise gives a enjoyable and academic journey for all ages.
The place to Eat: Among the many many eateries situated throughout the mall, considered one of my favourite locations to dine is Bucco di Beppo – an Italian restaurant recognized for its scrumptious and genuine delicacies. The menu at Bucco di Beppo is intensive, that includes a wide range of conventional Italian dishes that cater to all tastes and preferences. The parts are beneficiant and excellent for sharing with family and friends.
14. Benefit from the Metropolis of Tampa
An incredible day journey from Orlando is to go to the good metropolis of Tampa. One of many highlights of visiting Tampa is exploring its vibrant downtown space. Town’s downtown is residence to a wide range of cultural and historic landmarks, such because the Tampa Theatre, a stupendous film palace that dates again to 1926. With its distinctive structure and ornate inside, the Tampa Theatre is a must-visit for movie fans and historical past buffs alike.
For those who’re searching for some out of doors enjoyable, Tampa has lots to supply. Town is surrounded by stunning seashores, together with Clearwater Seashore and St. Pete Seashore, each of that are only a brief drive away. Whether or not you’re trying to loosen up on the white sandy shores or strive your hand at water sports activities, Tampa’s seashores are the proper place to spend a sunny day.
Two of my favourite must-do actions within the space embody a go to to Busch Gardens and exploring the bustling port. Busch Gardens is a famend amusement park that mixes thrilling rides and fascinating dwell reveals. With over 300 acres of fun-filled sights, it ensures an unforgettable expertise.
Distance from Orlando: 1 Hour and 16 Minutes or 84.4 Miles
Location: Tampa, FL
Getting There: The easiest way to get to Tampa from Orlando is to take I-4 W.
Finest Tour from Orlando: Guided Metropolis Tour in Deluxe Avenue Golf Cart
Should-Do Actions: Go to Busch Gardens and the bustling port of Tampa Bay. Recognized for its vibrant maritime exercise, the port affords a singular glimpse into the town’s thriving commerce and commerce. Stroll alongside the waterfront promenade and witness large cargo ships and cruise liners docked on the port.
The place to Eat: Ulele is widely known as among the best eating places in Tampa Bay. Situated on the waterfront, this native-inspired eatery affords a singular eating expertise combining scrumptious delicacies and a shocking ambiance. One dish stands out as my all-time favourite: the oysters from the Gulf Coast.
15. Go to the Ocala Nationwide Forest
The Ocala Nationwide Forest affords nature lovers and out of doors fans a singular day journey to recollect. Spanning over 600 sq. miles, this huge forest is residence to numerous ecosystems, wildlife, and leisure actions that can go away guests awe-struck.
Ocala Nationwide Forest boasts an in depth community of nature trails, providing alternatives for hikers of all ability ranges to immerse themselves in the fantastic thing about the encircling wilderness. The Juniper Springs Recreation Space is a well-liked place to begin, offering entry to a number of trails, together with the Juniper Springs Path and the Yearling Path. These trails wind by way of lush forests, crystal-clear springs, and historic sand pine scrub habitats, permitting guests to witness the area’s wealthy biodiversity.
Distance from Orlando: 1 Hour and 24 Minutes or 71.3 Miles
Location: Ocala Nationwide Forest
Getting There: The easiest way to get to the Ocala Nationwide Forest from Orlando is to take FL-19 N.
Should-Do Actions: Over 600 miles of mountain climbing trails, water sports activities, exploring nature. The Ocala Nationwide Forest affords a mess of must-do actions for guests to get pleasure from.
The place to Eat: The perfect place to eat close to the Ocala Nationwide Forest is Gator Joe’s Seashore Bar and Grill. This family-friendly institution affords a implausible eating expertise that can fulfill everybody. Whether or not you’re searching for a scrumptious meal or a enjoyable time, Gator Joe’s has all of it.
Finest Day Journey Excursions from Orlando
Orlando, Florida is thought for its world-class theme parks and sights. Nevertheless, for those who’re trying to discover past the town limits and expertise the pure magnificence and cultural choices of the encircling space, there are a number of glorious day journey excursions accessible. Whether or not you’re all for wildlife encounters, historic websites, or scenic landscapes, these excursions provide one thing for all types of vacationers:
1. Kennedy Middle Journey with Transport: This can be a ten-hour tour and pick-up is obtainable at most motels in Orlando. As soon as on the Kennedy Area Middle, a tour information will present you across the space and reply any questions you might need. Click on right here to e-book.
2. St. Augustine Day Journey with Tour Choices: This tour from Orlando affords round-trip transportation from Orlando, museum entry, trolley passes, and free time to discover the attractive metropolis of St. Augustine. Click on right here for extra info.
3. Revolution Off-Street Mucky Duck ATV Expertise: This expertise lasts round one hour and also you’ll observe your information alongside the tracks, by way of bushes, and even into the water. Click on right here to seek out out extra.
4. Clearwater Seashore Pirate Cruise with Lunch: On this 12-hour tour you’ll have to arrive on the designated assembly level 20 minutes earlier than departure earlier than setting off for an satisfying, round-trip trip to the seaside. Click on right here to e-book.
5. Swim with Manatees and Homosassa State Park Go to: This 11-hour tour contains decide up from a predesignated space and permits the possibility to swim with the manatees – lunch is even included! Click on right here to e-book your spot.
Day Journeys Round Orlando: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to ceaselessly requested questions on the most effective day journeys from Orlando, Florida:
The preferred day journey from Orlando is to the Kennedy Area Middle.
Relying on the time of 12 months you go to, you’ll want between 5 and 14 days in Orlando.
The perfect day journeys from Orlando with a automobile are to the Kennedy Area Middle and St Augustine.
Probably the most stunning place close to Orlando is the Magic Kingdom theme park in Walt Disney World.
Sure, you’ll be able to take a day journey from Orlando to Tampa by automobile. The journey takes just below 2 hours, relying on visitors.
Walt Disney World is probably the most well-known place that’s near Orlando.
In Conclusion
I hope this listing of the 15 finest day journeys from Orlando has been useful. Whether or not you’re a neighborhood or a customer, Orlando affords a mess of choices for thrilling day journeys. From gorgeous pure wonders to historic landmarks and thrilling theme parks, there’s one thing for everybody to get pleasure from.
Orlando is just not solely a implausible vacation spot in itself but in addition serves as a gateway to quite a few unbelievable day journeys. Whether or not you’re all for historical past, nature, journey, or just looking for a change of surroundings, any considered one of these 15 day journeys talked about would make an amazing addition to your itinerary.
