Orlando may be best known for its world-famous theme parks—Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and more—but there’s so much to explore beyond the rides and crowds. When you’re ready for a change of pace, it’s easy to slip away for a quick adventure. Here are some of my favorite day trips from Orlando, where you’ll find local charm, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences just a short drive away.
Day Trip Ideas
Sanford
Just 30 minutes northeast of Orlando, Sanford is more than just home to Orlando’s secondary airport. Its charming historic downtown is full of cute shops, delicious restaurants, great coffee, and colorful murals. A stroll along Lake Monroe’s scenic riverwalk is always refreshing, especially when the flowers are in bloom.
If you’re up for a relaxing cruise, hop aboard the Barbara-Lee, a vintage-style paddlewheel boat. And don’t leave town without trying the German food at Hollerbach’s — I highly recommend the Jäger Schnitzel or Pork Schnitzel with red cabbage and spätzle.
Sanford is also home to the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens, a hit with families thanks to its fun extras, such as a carousel, zip line, and obstacle course.
Cassadaga
About 35 miles northeast of Orlando, Cassadaga is Florida’s quirkiest town — and I mean that in the best way. Known as the “Psychic Capital of the World,” it’s a spiritualist community where mediums and healers offer readings, workshops, and even guided tours.
The setting is peaceful and scenic, perfect for an afternoon of strolling or browsing metaphysical shops. Don’t miss a meal at Sinatra’s Ristorante inside the 1920s-era Hotel Cassadaga — the vibe is just as memorable as the food.
FYI: The Titan Pro Cooler has quickly become one of my favorite road trip essentials. Whether I’m cruising cross-country or heading out for a quick day trip, this powerhouse keeps everything perfectly chilled—from bottled water and sodas to our dog’s gourmet food. Easy to clean, tough as nails, and built for adventure, this cooler is the ultimate travel companion.
Winter Park
Winter Park is my favorite Orlando neighborhood — it feels like a getaway in itself. Upscale and artsy, it’s packed with boutique shops, wine bars, and bistros along charming brick-lined streets. Rollins College adds to the town’s personality, but the real gem is the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum, home to one of the best Tiffany glass collections in the world.
Hungry? Try Tabla for excellent Indian cuisine, or The Ravenous Pig for gastropub-style eats that hit the spot and handcrafted cocktails to populate your Instagram feed.
Merritt Island (Kennedy Space Center)
Just an hour east of Orlando, Kennedy Space Center is a must for science buffs and history lovers. Walk the same grounds as astronauts, check out the Space Shuttle Atlantis, and marvel at the Saturn V rocket. The U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame and Heroes & Legends exhibit are both inspiring.
Plan to spend a whole day exploring, and don’t miss the Chat With an Astronaut experience—it’s absolutely worth it! In this intimate, small-group session, you’ll enjoy light bites and drinks while sitting down with a real NASA astronaut. It’s a rare chance to hear firsthand stories from space and ask all those questions you’ve always wondered about.
Clermont
Thirty minutes west of Orlando, Clermont is a small town that surprised me with its charm. Don’t miss the Florida Citrus Tower — the elevator ride up offers sweeping views. One of my favorite stops is the Presidents Hall of Fame, with miniature replicas and wax figures that are quirky, informative, and just plain fun.
For lunch, Oakwood Smokehouse has tasty BBQ, or check out the Orlando Cat Café for coffee and cuddles with adoptable cats. Lake Minneola offers kayaking and peaceful lake views.
New Smyrna Beach
Need a beach break? Head about an hour northeast to New Smyrna Beach (NSB), a laid-back spot with galleries, boutiques, and a great local food scene. Flagler Avenue and Canal Street are the heart of the action — perfect for a stroll, some shopping, and maybe a fresh brew.
Book a pontoon ecotour with Turtle Mound River Tours to explore the Indian River and Canaveral National Seashore. You might see dolphins, manatees, and a whole range of birds. Wrap up your day with a creative sandwich at Yellow Dog Eats — try the What the Fig or Florida Cracker.
Pro Tip: NSB is one of the few places in Florida where you can drive on the beach. It’s $30 per vehicle, and the marked areas make it easy.
Winter Haven (LEGOLAND)
If you loved LEGOs growing up (or have a LEGO-loving kid), LEGOLAND in Winter Haven is just 30 minutes from Orlando and absolutely worth the trip. It’s filled with rides, shows, and incredible LEGO displays. Don’t skip the apple fries with caramel sauce — they’re addictive.
The park grounds also has a great water park, Peppa Pig theme park (for mostly age 7 and under), and Sea Life Florida Aquarium.
Fun Fact: LEGOLAND was built on the site of the old Cypress Gardens, a beloved historic attraction. You can still enjoy beautiful garden spaces here, too.
Mount Dora
Mount Dora, about 40 minutes northwest of Orlando, is one of the most charming towns in Florida. The historic downtown is perfect for browsing boutiques and relaxing with a drink or meal on a porch with a view. I like Pisces Rising for upscale fare and The Goblin Market Restaurant for something more casual.
If you have time, take a CatBoat Adventure Tour across Lake Dora or glide through town on a Segway tour. Both are fun and informative and show off the town’s personality from different angles.
Lakeland
An hour away, Lakeland is a gem for architecture lovers. It’s home to the largest single-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright buildings in the world — 13 in total — all at Florida Southern College. The Annie Pfeiffer Chapel is a standout.
Other local highlights include Hollis Garden, the Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art (The AGB — formerly Polk Museum of Art), and great spots to eat like Frescoes Southern Kitchen or Black & Brew coffee shop.
Dade City
Dade City, about 75 minutes from Orlando, is the kind of town that makes for a perfect short escape. It has charming shops, a beautiful historic courthouse, and a few standout eateries, like Kafe Kokopelli (get the short rib tacos!) and Angel Tea Room for traditional afternoon tea.
Check out the Pioneer Florida Museum & Village if you’re into local history — it’s full of pioneer-era buildings and vintage farm equipment.
Whether you’re into beaches, history, nature, or want a break from the theme park frenzy, Orlando has an amazing lineup of nearby destinations to explore. Which one will you visit first?
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