Day trips from Orlando

For a glimpse into one of Orlando’s most popular day trips, set your sights on St. Augustine. The city on the northeast coast of Florida is one of the oldest cities in the Americas. 55 years before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock, the Spanish founded St. Augustine in 1565. This charming coastal city boasts remarkable attractions dating back to its yesteryear, including the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument and the legendary Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, where Ponce de Leon supposedly searched for the mythic fountain in 1513. If museums are your passion, the Lightner Museum is a must-see. Originally a hotel commissioned by Henry Flagler in 1887, its stunning Spanish Renaissance Revival architecture is a treat for the eyes. All that sightseeing can work up an appetite. Fortunately, St. Augustine has a vibrant culinary scene full of local seafood, Spanish tapas, and key lime pie. The Downtown Historical Center has several restaurants to pick from, such as Michael’s St. Augustine, Alta Marea, and the Collage Restaurant.

How to get there: St. Augustine is an easy two-hour drive north of Orlando via I-4 E and I-95 N. This makes driving the most convenient and popular way to get there. If you prefer not to drive, consider one of the many shuttle or bus services, like Greyhound and Flixbus, who offer direct routes daily. Regardless of the mode of transportation, visitors to St. Augustine will be rewarded with a charming and historic city that is well worth the trip from Orlando.

Rock Springs Run State Reserve is a natural oasis in the heart of Florida, just a short drive from Orlando. This park showcases the state’s natural beauty with lush greenery, clear spring-fed waterways, swamps, sand pine scrub, and pine flatwoods. Adventure-seekers will find an abundance of activities to experience. There are 17 miles of trails available for visitors to enjoy, whether they prefer bicycling, hiking, or horseback riding. If you’re looking for a more rustic camping experience, there are secluded campsites located along Rock Springs Run and the Wekiva River that are only accessible by canoe.

The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, alligators, and a wide range of bird species, making it an ideal destination for birdwatchers and animal enthusiasts. Rock Springs Run Reserve is co-managed with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for hunting. Hunting is allowed on select weekends from September to January in designated areas, and some trails may be closed during these times to ensure visitor safety. In addition to its natural beauty, Rock Springs Run State Reserve is also home to a range of historical and cultural landmarks, such as the remains of an old sawmill and a historic pioneer cemetery.

How to get there: Rock Springs Run State Reserve is about a 40-minute drive north of Downtown Orlando. The easiest way to get there is to head north on I-4 E for about 20 miles, then take a left on W Florida 46 and follow the signs for the reserve. In addition to driving, you could take the SunRail Orange 106 line to the station at S Orange Blossom Trail and Victor Drive, then hail a taxi or rideshare for the remaining six miles.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is a must-visit in Florida for space enthusiasts, families with young kids, or anyone interested in touching a moon rock. Located on the east coast of Florida, the complex offers a range of exhibits, displays, and interactive experiences that showcase the achievements of the U.S. space program. Encounter the Atlantis Shuttle, feel the thrill of a simulated shuttle launch in the Shuttle Launch Experience, or take a bus tour to explore the historical launch sites. You can also meet an astronaut or marvel over the vastness of space in the stunning IMAX films and, with careful planning, you can even witness a rocket launch in real-time. Open daily, the complex delivers a blend of inspiring exhibits, interactive experiences, and captivating history that truly brings the epic story of the U.S. space program to life.

How to get there: The Kennedy Space Center is about 55 miles due east of Orlando. The easiest way to get there is to take 528 East (the Beeline) to the exit labeled 407, Titusville, Kennedy Space Center. Take 407 until it ends at 405. Turn right onto 405 for about eight miles until you see the KSC Visitor Complex on the right-hand side. There are various round-trip shuttles for those who prefer not to drive. Prices for these options vary depending on the season, so be sure to check in advance.

Escape to the natural beauty of Central Florida with a day trip to Blue Spring State Park in Orange City. This stunning park is centered around a crystal-clear spring that’s home to friendly manatees. With water temperatures at a constant 72°F, the spring offers plenty of fun activities like kayaking, snorkeling, and tubing on the natural lazy river.

The park is the largest on the St. Johns River and is perfect for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. In addition to water activities, visitors can also go scuba diving or explore the underwater cave where the spring lets out water. Camping is also available, and equipment rentals and guided cruises are offered. Keep in mind that the springs can get busy throughout the year due to the temperate waters, so be sure to check ahead and make any necessary reservations.

How to get there: There are no public transportation options to the state park, but the drive from Orlando is straightforward and typically takes about 40 minutes. Start by taking I-4 northbound until you reach exit 114 where you will take US-17 North for about 20 minutes. Turn left off West French Avenue and Blue Spring State Park will be on your right.

If you want to add beautiful beaches to your theme park-packed vacation, head two hours southwest of Orlando to Clearwater Beach. The three-mile barrier island off the coast of Tampa is known for its pristine, sugar-sand beaches and warm Gulf waters.

A popular tourist attraction is the vibrant Pier 60 with its daily sunset celebrations, street performers, and craft vendors. Dolphin lovers should make sure to stop by Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Not only does the aquarium rescue, rehabilitate, and release marine life, but it also provides an extraordinary experience for visitors through its Dolphintopia exhibition. This multifaceted attraction allows guests to have a captivating up-close encounter with dolphins.

Don’t forget to treat your taste buds to a delightful culinary experience by exploring the variety of oceanfront restaurants, such as Crabby’s Dockside and Sea Guini, which offer fresh, delicious seafood.

How to get there: The faster and easiest way to get to Clearwater from Orlando is by car. The beach is just over 100 miles from Orlando and typically takes two hours with no traffic. Tour companies offer day trips to and from the beach and bus operators like Greyhound have direct routes.

Are you even in Florida if you don’t see an alligator? The Everglades National Park is one of Florida’s most iconic natural landmarks and not only does it have alligators, it is one of the only places on earth where both the American alligator and American crocodile co-exist.

The UNESCO World Heritage site is an ecological treasure spanning 1.5 million acres. The park offers several ways for visitors to explore the coastal mangroves, pine flatwoods, and sawgrass marshes. Discover the vast wetlands with an exhilarating airboat ride, immerse yourself in its unique beauty by hiking its many trails, or enjoy an intimate encounter with the park’s delicate ecosystem by canoeing or kayaking through the mangrove forests. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a bird watcher, or an adventure seeker, the Everglades provide an unforgettable, unspoiled wilderness experience.

How to get there: Everglades National Park is located several hours’ drive from Orlando in southern Florida; however, due to the park’s vast size, there are several entry points. Kissimmee is only a 30-minute drive from Orlando and serves as a convenient entry point to the northern Everglades. Kissimmee is an easy drive down the I-4 south to the Florida Turnpike. If you do not want to drive, several tour operators offer day trips to the northern portion of the Everglades.

Sarasota Beach is a must-visit destination for beach enthusiasts and sun-seekers. Located two hours southwest along the picturesque Gulf Coast of Florida, the small town known for its pristine white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and stunning sunsets, Sarasota Beach offers a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere for all visitors. Stroll along the shore, sunbathe, or take a refreshing dip in the calm waters. The more adventurous travelers in your group can indulge in water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, or jet-skiing.

Explore nearby attractions like the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, and The Ringling Museum of Art. The vibrant downtown area offers a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor fresh seafood at local eateries, such as Walt’s Fish Market Restaurant, or catch a performance at the Sarasota Opera House.

How to get there: Driving to Sarasota Beach is the quickest way to get there. Just take the I-4 West and then the I-75 South. The journey typically takes about two hours, depending on traffic. Greyhound operates a bus route between the two cities, but you can also get there by train. Amtrak usually has two daily trips between Orlando and Sarasota.

Mount Dora is a picturesque town rich in southern charm just 40 minutes northwest of Orlando. Spend an afternoon strolling through its delightful downtown filled with antique shops, historical 1920s buildings, and museums like the Modernism Museum. Nature lovers can enjoy the canopy of oak trees lining the streets and partake in kayaking or paddleboarding on Lake Dora. With stunning water views at dusk, Mount Dora makes for a romantic day trip destination. Complete your visit with a delightful dining experience at The Goblin Market, which showcases the town’s charm through its gastronomic delights. Mount Dora offers a blend of cultural, historical, and natural attractions making it a perfect destination for a day trip.

How to get there: Traveling from Orlando to Mount Dora takes about an hour by car with the I-4 East Express providing a direct route. If you prefer public transit, consider taking the SunRail to Lynx Central Station, but be warned that this journey may take about three hours.