While there’s no shortage of things to do in the world’s theme park capital, sometimes you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the big city. Since Orlando is centrally located and close to major highways, you can explore various places on the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts. From natural springs and historic landmarks to charming wineries and space rockets, there’s lots you can see and do with just a short road trip.
So, when you’ve had your fill of typical tourist attractions like rollercoasters, superheroes, and talking mice — gas up the car, pick a playlist, and head out of the city for a quick sightseeing getaway. Don’t worry; you’ll be back in time to unwind in your vacation rental, watch the gorgeous sunset, or grab dinner.
Here are some of the best day trips from Orlando!
Apopka
Photo Credit: JennLShoots
Travel time from Orlando: 45 minutes
Less than an hour’s drive from the big bustling cityscapes of Downtown Orlando, Apopka is a charming small town surrounded by incredible nature. Retaining its “Old-Florida” feel, Apopka is full of tree-lined streets, “mom-and-pop” shops, and gorgeous springs, lakes, and nature trails.
The crown jewel of Apopka is its crystal-clear natural springs. You can spend the day paddling on the serene emerald-colored waters of Rock Springs at Kings Landing, tubing the natural “lazy river” at Kelly Park, or swimming and snorkeling in the cool, clear waters of Wekiwa Springs.
You’ll also find plenty of nature trails for hiking, biking, and birdwatching around Apopka. The Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive is a can’t-miss activity if you’re heading there on a weekend. The small gravel road surrounding Lake Apopka is open to motorists on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Known as a Florida-style safari, this scenic drive will get you up close and personal with various birds, otters, turtles, and, of course — alligators!
The Space Coast
Travel time from Orlando: 1 hour
Of all the Orlando day trips, this one should be at the top of your list. Just an hour from Orlando, Florida’s Space Coast offers a mix of tranquility and thrills. If you’re looking to relax, you’ll find no shortage of beautiful beaches and leisurely nature trails.
If adventure is on your itinerary, the Space Coast is home to Cape Canaveral and Kennedy Space Center. You can spend a great day learning about space exploration, touring spacecraft, and riding in astronaut simulators. Be sure to check the schedule; you may even get to witness a rocket launch.
If you visit the East Coast of Florida during the summer or fall, you’re in for a special treat. The waters surrounding Cape Canaveral come alive with bioluminescence. This natural phenomenon occurs due to a high concentration of dinoflagellates (bioluminescent plankton) in the water.
At night, the water gives off a glittery glow, while fish and other creatures create flashes of light as they dart about. If you’re able to hang out past sunset, there are plenty of kayak companies that offer bioluminescent tours.
Clermont
Travel time from Orlando: 30 minutes
A small town full of history, nature, and lots of charm, Clermont is just 30 minutes outside of Orlando, but it feels like a world away. History buffs will enjoy a stroll through the Historic Downtown District, lined with charming shops, quaint cafes, museums, and breweries. Nearby, the iconic Citrus Tower, a famous landmark since the 1950s, offers a birdseye view of the city and surrounding natural areas.
Nature lovers will enjoy the many lakes and nature trails around Clermont. The most popular trails include Lake Minneola and Lake Louisa State Park, which offer stunning views and wildlife. You can also kayak, canoe, or paddleboard.
Wind down at the end of the day with a stop at Lakeridge Winery, where you can tour the vineyards and sample some wine. You can even grab a bottle to go and enjoy it later in your cozy vacation rental!
Ocala
Photo Credit: Erin Westgate
Travel time from Orlando: 1.5 hours
Just an hour and a half north of Orlando, Ocala holds the key to the ultimate adventurous day trip in Central Florida. From ziplining and horseback riding to hiking and kayaking, Ocala is an outdoor lover’s paradise.
Adrenaline seekers will find plenty of thrills at The Canyons Zipline and Adventure Park. While cliffs and canyons are not usual sights in the nation’s flattest state, this zipline park nestled in an old rock quarry will have you forgetting you’re in Florida! In addition to ziplining over canyons and rappelling down ledges, you can also go horseback riding or kayaking at the park.
For a more leisurely adventure, head to the nearby Ocala National Forest, where you’ll find plenty of hiking trails and gorgeous springs. You can also take a drive down the Black Bear Scenic Byway, which runs through part of the forest. This scenic drive offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting, including deer, alligators, birds, and of course, the road’s namesake — the Florida Black Bear.
Crystal River
Travel time from Orlando: 1.5 hours
On Florida’s West Coast, just an hour and a half from Orlando, Crystal River offers one of the most unique and beautiful experiences you’ll find anywhere in the state. Aptly named “The Manatee Capital of the World,” Crystal River is a sanctuary for the endangered West Indian Manatee.
While manatees can be found throughout many waterways in Florida, Crystal River is the only place to see them up close. In fact, it is the only place in North America where you’re permitted to swim with them.
There are a variety of ways you can “meet a manatee,” including snorkeling tours, kayaking, or paddleboarding. Manatees are protected, and it is a privilege to swim with them. Visitors must follow posted “manatee manners,” providing instruction on interacting with these docile creatures during this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
St. Augustine
Travel time from Orlando: 1 hour, 45 minutes
Just under a two-hour drive from Orlando, St. Augustine is full of history, mystery, old-world charm, and, according to some — maybe even ghosts!
Established in 1565, St. Augustine is the oldest city in the US and the perfect day trip for history buffs. You can spend the day strolling the ancient cobblestone streets lined with unique shops, cafes, and breweries or visit museums and tour historic landmarks. St. Augustine is home to two historic forts, Castillo de San Marcos, built in 1695, and Fort Matanzas, built in 1782, plus dozens of museums, historic parks, and archeological sites.
Like many historic cities, St. Augustine has a reputation for being haunted. Visitors can partake in many paranormal activities, from ghost tours and haunted pub crawls to supernatural-themed reenactments with costumed characters. There’s lots of spooky fun to be had in the nation’s oldest city.
Daytona Beach
Photo Credit: James Kirkikis
Travel time from Orlando: 1 hour
While the West Coast of Florida has arguably some of the best beaches overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, you can’t miss the white sand beaches of Daytona.
If fast cars sound like your kind of fun, Daytona Beach, just an hour outside of Orlando, might be your perfect day trip. Home to the Daytona International Speedway and an endless barrage of car and motorcycle shows, Daytona Beach offers plenty of speedy thrills.
At the Daytona International Speedway, you can tour multiple car museums, including the World Center of Racing and the Motorsports Hall of Fame. Be sure to check the schedule if you’re hoping to catch a live race. Want to get behind the wheel and play race car driver for the day? The Speedway also offers a NASCAR Racing Experience that’s a must-do for thrill seekers!
Once you’ve had your fill of thrills, Daytona’s perfect for a beach day or strolling the boardwalk, where you’ll find shopping, dining, amusement rides, and quirky street performers. It’s the perfect place for an afternoon of family-friendly fun.
Weeki Wachee Springs
Travel time from Orlando: 1 hour, 45 minutes
Less than two hours from Orlando, you’ll find an enchanting underwater world of manatees and mermaids at Weeki Wachee Springs. Home to the deepest freshwater cave system in the US, Weeki Wachee Springs has been an iconic Florida roadside attraction since the 1940s.
Visitors can enjoy any number of activities in and around the springs, including swimming, snorkeling, tubing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. There’s also a guided boat tour. While on the water, keep your eyes peeled for the West Indian Manatee. These gentle giants frequent the springs and waterways, especially during cooler parts of the year.
No visit to Weeki Wachee Springs is complete without seeing their world-famous mermaid show. A park staple since its inception nearly eight decades ago. The mermaids perform several times a day and can be viewed from a unique underwater amphitheater beneath the spring.
Adventure Awaits
Whether you want to take a break from all the theme parks or are looking for even more thrills, there’s no shortage of adventure, just a short drive from Orlando. In addition to all the great spots we just listed, you’ll also find easy access to other famous Florida cities. Tampa, Sarasota, and Gainesville are all just under two hours away.
Still looking for a place to stay in the center of it all? Element Vacation Homes offers the ultimate luxury getaway close to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Legoland, and more. With unique amenities like themed rooms, home theaters, and even your own mini-golf course, the fun doesn’t stop when you leave the theme park! Book your stay now!
