30+ Epic Day Trips from Orlando with Digital Map

Every year, millions of people visit Orlando for the vacation of a lifetime. And while there are so many fun theme parks and delicious restaurants here, it is also worth venturing outside of Orlando to some nearby destinations. This guide has over thirty unique day trips from Orlando to experience no matter your age or budget.

I have broken this guide into places that are only an hour or less of a drive from Orlando, one to two-hour drives, and day trips that take over two hours to drive to. This way you can determine how far you want to drive and what you want to do. Whether you are a local looking for a new experience or a tourist hoping to see more of Florida, this guide has all the day trips from Orlando I can think of!

Day Trips Within an Hour of Orlando

With Orlando being smack dab in the middle of Central Florida, it is not hard to find great day trips. This first section has nine day trip ideas that take less than an hour to get to from Orlando. It includes beach, nature, city, and attraction ideas for any sort of day trip!

1. Cocoa Beach

Distance: 60 miles (1-hour drive)
Highlights: Beach, Downtown, Sightseeing

For a quintessential beach day, Cocoa Beach is one of the best day trips from Orlando. This beach is famous for surfing and being where “I Dream of Jeanie” takes place. It also has an awesome downtown and a pier to walk around.

I recommend getting here early and finding a spot a parking spot at Lori Wilson Park. From here, you can enjoy swimming, shelling or even take a surfing lesson. You can bring your own beach picnic or walk to one of the surf shack-style restaurants like Jazzy’s Mainely Lobster or Fourth Street Fillin Station.

Once you have had enough beach time, move on to sightseeing. Families can head to Lighthouse Cove for a round of mini golf and ice cream. Adults may prefer to walk the Cocoa Beach pier and grab a drink at Rikki Tiki Tavern or a more laid-back cocktail at Tropics. On the way back to Orlando, stop in Cocoa Village for a walk through the quaint shops and dinner at OSSORIO Café.

2. Titusville

Distance: 40 miles (45-minutes drives)
Highlights: Downtown, National Wildlife Refuge, Kayaking, Beach

bk adventure Florida bioluminescence kayaking

Nature lovers should head to Titusville for a day trip with all sorts of adventures. You can start the day with a tour of the Haulover Canal with BK Adventures. This is known as their Manatee and Dolphin Tour, so you are sure to get some amazing sightings!

Next head to one of two gorgeous national sites. If you are in the mood for a beach afternoon, Canaveral National Sea Shore offers some of the most pristine beaches in Florida. For hiking and more nature sightings (including alligators!) go towards Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.

You may want to pack a lunch if you are planning a beach day. But whether you need lunch or dinner, you can’t miss Third Culture Kitchen when in Titusville! This is one of my favorite restaurants, so I recommend grabbing a bite there, after the wildlife refuge or on the way out for dinner.

Downtown Titusville is also a cute place to walk around with some old-time charm. Fans of craft beer should head to the Hardware Store, as Playalinda Brewing Company has so many excellent brews here.

Regardless of when you go, check out SpaceFlightNow for the launch schedule and stop by Marina Park if there happens to be a launch while you are here! And if you want an excuse to stay late, or take a night trip, take a BK Adventure Biouluminscent tour at night instead for an unforgettable experience!

3. New Smyrna Beach

Distance: 55 miles (55-minute drive)
Highlights: Beach, Flagler Ave, Surfing, Nature Trails, Lighthouse

Another beach town perfect for a day trip from Orlando is New Smyrna Beach. Though you could easily spend the entire day at the beach, this town offers so much more! To see it all in a day, here’s what I recommend.

Start out with a nature hike or paddle tour. Three Brothers Adventure Tours offers early morning paddleboard excursions where you are very likely to see dolphins and manatees. Conversely, you could head to Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve or the Sugarmill Ruins for a walk through nature.

Around lunchtime, go to Flagler Ave for a delicious meal. There are so many restaurants to check out on the strip, but my favorites are Third Wave Café and Café Verde. You can also check out the shops and the bars while here.

You can’t miss the beach while in New Smyrna, so go there next. Crazily, you can even drive on the beach for a unique experience that you won’t find elsewhere. Either drive on at Flagler or, if you want to see the lighthouse, take the scenic half-hour drive to Beach Street. From here you can drive on the beach, watch the surfers and climb the tallest lighthouse in Florida! This should make for a full day in New Smyrna Beach, and if you are hungry after, stop by The Garlic for a Mediterranean meal.

4. Cape Canaveral

Distance: 55 miles (55-minute drive)
Highlights: Kennedy Space Center, Waterfront Dining

A Kennedy Space Center day trip from Orlando is essential to experience the fascinating history of the space race. This part museum, part amusement park has interactive exhibits and attractions that appeal to all ages. Being less than an hour from Orlando, I highly recommend it to Floridians and tourists.

Start the day early and get here just before it opens. Lines can form about an hour after opening, so this way you will avoid it. Begin with a walk through the rocket garden and the astronaut hall of fame for a primer on the start of space discovery.

After this, plan to spend about an hour checking out the Space Shuttle Atlantis attraction. Here, you learn about the history of the program, the Hubble telescope, and get to see a space shuttle in its massive glory. There is also a ride that gives a simulation of what it feels like to be launched into space.

Another essential stop is taking the bus over to the Apollo/ Saturn V Center. This is included with your ticket and is a must-see for learning about the moon landing. The simulated launch from the firing room is surreal and it’s amazing to see the massive Saturn V up close. There is a café with food here if you are hungry for lunch, but it’s average theme park food.

Once you arrive back at the main campus, there are plenty more things to experience including IMAX movies, a play area for kids, and the new Gateway to Deep Space Complex. You can spend the whole day here or leave a bit early for a late lunch at the Brix Project on the way back to Orlando.

5. DeLand

Distance: 40 miles (45-minute drive)
Highlights: De Leon Springs, Downtown DeLand, Mural Tour, Cool Craft Beverage Trail

West Volusia is close to Orlando but has enough small-town charm to feel like a world away. A day here is just what many need after busy days at the theme parks. You can start your day trip with a visit to DeLeon Springs State Park, which used to be a sugar cane mill.

There is so much to see here, including the turquoise water. If you are hungry, the Sugar Mill restaurant offers griddle tables where you can make your own pancakes! Afterward, take the Eco/Heritage Boat Ride or go for a dip in the natural springs.

Next, start your Wings of the West Scavenger Hunt with a stop at Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge. Take a nature walk around the marsh and find the swallow-tailed kite wing photo opportunity at the end of it!

For lunch, I recommend going to Downtown DeLand for a variety of options. Santorini Greek Cuisine and BakeChop are a couple of my favorite places to eat. You can also find another mural of wings for the scavenger hunt or visit some of the establishments on the CoolCraft Beverage Trail. Persimmon Hollow Brewing and the Abbey Bar are both excellent spots for craft beer lovers.

End your day trip to DeLand with some history at either the Stetson Mansion or the Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp. Either option offers interesting sights and stories of the area. Of course, you can always spend the rest of your day trip downtown enjoying live music at one of the many bars before heading back to Orlando.

6. Blue Springs State Park

Distance: 30 miles (30-minute drive)
Highlights: Blue Springs, Downtown Sanford

One of my favorite freshwater springs in Florida is Blue Springs State Park and it is only a short drive from Orlando. In the winter, you can see countless manatees and, in the summer, you can cool off with a dip in the clear springs. There is plenty to do here for a full day and afterward, you can visit nearby Sanford for dinner.

If you are going on a summer weekend, get a very early start. They only let in a certain amount of people and lines form shortly after opening. Weekdays and most of the rest of the year, crowds are not as much of an issue. Once parking, there are a few options for how to spend the day.

I recommend starting with something active like a walk through the nature trails or renting a kayak or paddleboard. Then once you are hot, you can float in the cool springs and relax. Packing a picnic lunch is a must so you don’t have to worry about leaving the springs when you get hungry.

After a day of swimming, paddling hiking, manatee spotting, and sunning, take the 20-minute drive to Historic Sanford. I think this downtown is so cute and has so many hidden gems. For coffee, check out Palate Coffee, sweets, try Wondermade, or craft beer go to Deviant Wolfe Brewing. Then for dinner Henry’s Depot is a food hall with something for everyone, from flatbread pizzas to Filipino sandwiches! Though Blue Springs State Park is a day trip in itself, I love ending the day with a little adventure in a different downtown.

7. Winter Garden

Distance: 20 miles (20-minute drive)
Highlights: Nature Trails, Food Hall, Historic Downtown, Bike Trails, Kayaking

Being so close to theme parks and the city, Orlando often feels far from nature. However, just a short drive from Downtown, you can spend a day in Winter Garden and experience the natural side of Central Florida. To begin your day trip here, head to the Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve for a hike. You can look for wildlife on the Tarflower Loop and Fallen Log Crossing or take the one-mile Palmetto Passage if you are up for a challenge.

From here, head to Plant Street Market, which is one of the best local food halls. There are all sorts of options for lunch, coffee, or a treat, as well as a craft brewery. I love to hang out here enjoying beer and snacking, and live music if we come on a weekend. While you are downtown, be sure to take a walk down the main street and look for some of the unique murals that have been painted here.

For the afternoon, there are a variety of options for nature lovers. Cyclists can head to the Orange Trail for over twenty miles of bike trails, whereas paddlers can rent a kayak at King’s Landing and paddle through the Rock Springs Run. Families may prefer the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive or a visit to Gatorland where alligators of all shapes and sizes can be found. A day trip to Winter Garden is the perfect way to have a relaxing time just outside Orlando.

8. Kelly Park at Rock Springs

Distance: 30 miles (20-minute drive)
Highlights: Swimming, Snorkeling, Nature Trails, Paddling

Orlando has plenty of water parks with lazy rivers, but you can take a quick drive to Kelly Park to experience a real one! Here you can tube down the Rock Springs Run, as well as swim or paddle it. It’s a gorgeous place to experience the great outdoors just minutes from Orlando.

To start your Kelly Park day trip, make sure to get there early, especially in the summer. The park often reaches capacity by 9 AM on summer weekends. You can either bring your own tube or rent one from outside the park for $7.

From here you can tube down Rock Springs as many times as you like. It’s a quick ten-minute walk to the start of the run and then it takes about half an hour to float the three-fourths of a mile back. You can also swim along it or snorkel and look for shark teeth!

There are concessions, but I recommend packing a picnic for lunch. Once you have had enough swimming, you can either go for a hike or head to King’s Landing for paddling. This is a nearby spot where you can rent paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes. You will have to drive there, so if you prefer to stay at Kelly Park, then take any of the one-to-three-mile nature trails or continue your day of swimming and sunning.

It’s only a quick drive back to Orlando for the day trip, but if you want to extend your experience, grab an early dinner at nearby Rock Springs Bar & Grill or Antojito’s la Mexicana. Either one has plenty of libations to enjoy while reflecting back on the day.

9. Mount Dora

Distance: 35 miles (45-minute drive)
Highlights: Antiquing, Afternoon Tea, Boat Tour, Downtown

Though the highlights might conjure images of your grandmother’s ideal day trip, Mount Dora is an aDORAble town loved by all ages! It has some of the most unique architecture to see in the state and quite a bit of history. For less than an hour’s drive from Orlando, a Mount Dora day trip is the perfect way to slow down and smell the roses in Central Florida.

If you are into antiquing, this is definitely the place to go! Arrive in Mount Dora first thing to peruse the shops Downtown. Even if you are not looking for anything to buy, most people will enjoy seeing all the eclectic things available. The Rennigers flea market usually has some good finds as well!

For lunch, there are restaurants and café offering an abundance of cuisine options. If you go during the weekend, you can dine at the renowned 1921 Mount Dora. Other favorites for lunch any day of the week include the WAVE sushi and Pisces Rising.

Another can’t-miss attraction here is a CatBoat Adventure Tour that takes you around Lake Dora and through the Dora Canal. These tours are the best way to learn the local history and are offered at 9:30 AM or 1 PM. My day trip recommendation is to book the after-lunch one for a fun midday experience. For those who prefer to stay on land, you can also rent bikes from a local shop and take your own self-tour.

If you have time, check out the Windsor Rose Tea Room for high tea. This is the cutest British-inspired tea shop with the most delicious finger sandwiches and scones. Alternatively, you can visit nearby Lake Seneca Farms for a wine tasting. Make sure to make a reservation in advance!

Downtown Mount Dora has plenty of restaurants for dinner, drinks, and live music if you want to eat before heading back to Orlando. This is definitely a place to get a foodie fix in a more relaxing setting than the busy Orlando.

1 to 2-Hour Drive Day Trips

In addition to all the theme parks and attractions around Orlando, there are also so many amazing cities to explore just over an hour outside of Orlando! This next section contains twelve day trip ideas that take between one hour and two hours to get to, depending on your location in Orlando. From gardens to river adventures, read on for some epic ideas for a day trip from Orlando.

10. Bok Tower Gardens

Distance: 60 miles (1-hour drive)
Highlights: Gardens, Nature Trail, Sightseeing

bok tower gardens lake wales — The Bok Tower Gardens at Lake Wakes, Florida

For a day immersed in the beauty of nature, Bok Tower Gardens is one of my top day trip recommendations. I have met many people that seem skeptical it is worth the drive, but once arriving, everyone is enchanted by the sights here!

The gardens open at 8 AM daily and I recommend arriving sometime before 10 AM so you can take in the low morning crowds. Start at the Welcome Center where you can learn all about Edward Bok and his inspiration for the Bok Tower. From here, you have to see it for yourself, so head to Olmstead Gardens for a great view! You can spend about two hours checking out the tower, the different gardens, the koi ponds, and the boardwalk.

Make sure to bring a picnic lunch and enjoy it on the picnic tables outside. Head back into the gardens by 1 PM for the enchanting Carillon Concert played by the tower. In the afternoon, I recommend taking an architecture tour of the El Retiro Mansion, exploring the nature trails, or letting the kids play at Hammock Hollow.

Once you are ready to leave Bok Tower Gardens, there is still more to do nearby. No visit is complete without driving to Spook Hill and experiencing your car rolling uphill! If you are confused, just trust me and see for yourself.

End the day trip with dinner at one of the favorite local Lake Wales restaurants, such as L’Incontro Italian Restaurant or Manny’s Original Chophouse. And if you still want to spend time outside, you can even top off the day with some craft beer at Grove Roots Brewing Company. Visiting Bok Tower Gardens is a great way to see the unique side of Old Florida.

11. LegoLand

Distance: 52 miles (1-hour drive)
Highlights: Theme Park, Nature, Downtown

If you have kids who are into LEGOs, a visit to LEGOLAND Florida is a must! I went to the California one as a kid (before the Florida one opened) and loved every minute of it! The theme park is a great place to let kids’ imaginations run wild and there are some cool things for parents to see too.

LEGOLAND is located in Winter Haven, which is about an hour’s drive from Orlando. I recommend getting there right before the park opens. From here, you can easily spend the whole day riding rides, watching shows, and seeing the amazing LEGO sculptures at Miniland.

If you run out of things to do at LEGOLAND, Winter Haven offers some lovely nature experiences. Panther Point Trail has over 8 miles of hiking and visitors often see alligators. And to get on the water, Living Water Boat Cruises has a variety of tour options, starting at only $27 per adult and $10 per child.

Though you will probably eat lunch in the theme park, I recommend heading to Downtown Winter Haven for dinner after. Union Pizza (Inside Union taproom) or Adler’s Burgers are ideal spots for picky eaters, whereas Arabellas Italian Ristorante or the Fire Restaurant offers a more upscale experience.

12. Daytona Beach

Distance: 55 miles (1-hour drive)
Highlights: International Speedway, Beach, Zipline, Gardens, Pier

Another popular day trip from Orlando to take is a visit to Daytona Beach. This is only about an hour from Orlando and can be great for either a beach day trip or some more exciting sights. Race car fans will be especially excited to take a tour of the Daytona International Speedway.

Tours occur daily with the exception of race days and offer an hour-long look at the track and pit road experiences. If you want to take a ride on the track or even better, drive yourself, you can book a NASCAR racing experience ahead of time online.

For those not into racing, start your day at the beach. This is one of the few beaches in the country you can drive on, so you don’t have to worry about lugging umbrellas and chairs. I like driving right near the Daytona Beach Main Street Pier, which also puts you in a great place for lunch. You can either walk the pier and dine on The Roof or walk to Oasis Tiki Bar or Crabby’s.

After lunch, there are options for a relaxing or an exciting afternoon. For relaxation, either stay on the beach or visit the Dunlow Sugar Mill Gardens. This tropical oasis has all sorts of nature paths and some fun dinosaur statues for the kiddos.

On the other hand, the Daytona Beach Zipline Adventure is full of exhilarating challenges. You can zoom through the trees and climb across elevated ladders while enjoying the fresh air. Anyone eight years or older can try it and there are a variety of course options.

To finish off your day trip to Daytona Beach, have a romantic dinner at Chucherias Latin American Fine Dining or a lively meal at Caribbean Jack’s. You can also stop by New Smyrna Beach on the way back and take a stroll down Flagler Avenue. Either way, it’s just the beachy kind of day trip to get you out of Orlando!

13. Melbourne

Distance: 70 miles (75-minute drive)
Highlights: Brevard Zoo, Nature Trails, Beaches, Downtown, Mural Tour

One of the most underrated Orlando day trip options is a visit to my town Melbourne, Florida! Less than ninety minutes away, this area has everything you could want out of a Florida day trip. Start the day by deciding whether you are looking for a beach or nature experience.

For the beach, head to free parks like Spessard Holland or Howard E. Futch Memorial for plenty of room to spread out on the sand. If you prefer a nature day, the Brevard Zoo is ideal. Not only can you see all sorts of animals in their habitats, but you could also choose to kayak through a giraffe enclosure or zipline through the trees for an additional fee.

Afterward, get a late lunch in the Eau Gallie Arts District. Highland Park Sandwich Shop, The Cottage Irish Pub, FM Pizza Oven, and Intracoastal Brewing Company are all excellent options. You can also take a walk around the area and admire the many murals that add so much charm to this arts district.

End the day with a fun nature excursion through the swamp! The Viera Wetlands are on the way back to Orlando and visitors can drive or walk through the trail. It’s a great place to see alligators, go birding and just enjoy the fresh air.

14. Crystal River

Distance: 85 miles (90-minute drive)
Highlights: Boat Tours, Downtown, Springs

If you want an Orlando day trip unlike any other, Crystal River is the place to go. This area is well-known for having the most manatees to congregate in the river and you can swim with them!

During the winter, manatee boat tours are offered where you get to swim with the gentle giants and see more of the waterways. The morning tours have the best chance of seeing a manatee, especially on warmer days, so you will want to wake up early. If you are not visiting during manatee season, paddleboard tours, and in the summer, scalloping trips also offer a unique experience.

No matter what type of you tour you embark on, head to Crystal River Main Street after for lunch. Tea House 650 and Amy’s on the Avenue both offer a variety of tasty lunch options.

For those that want even more adventure, finish the day at Homosassa Springs. There is a 1.1-mile trail that includes wildlife viewing of manatees, alligators, and even rhinos! With both a boat tour and a tram ride, you can easily spend the rest of the day here before heading back to Orlando.

15. Clearwater Beach

Distance: 115 miles (90-minute drive)
Highlights: Beach, Aquarium, Breweries

There are many beaches close to Orlando, but Clearwater Beach is arguably the most popular, and for good reason! The warm water here is as pretty as its namesake and there are miles of white sand beaches to enjoy it on. Though you will definitely want to experience the beach at some point on your Clearwater day trip from Orlando, there is more to this town as well.

I recommend starting the day early at the beach. Look for a spot near the Hyatt Clearwater Beach and expect to spend up to $10 for the day. Bring or rent chairs and an umbrella and make sure to go for a swim at some point.

Once you are ready for lunch, it is hard to resist the famous Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill. If it’s too crowded, I also like Badfins Food and Brew and Poke Havana. After lunch, head to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. This is a must for young and old, as dolphins, turtles, sharks, stingrays, and fish are so fun to watch! For even more wildlife, the 3 PM Dolphin Tour has some amazing sights in the wild too.

For a proper end to the day in Clearwater Beach, make sure to check out Pier 60 before sunset. There are frequent performers, craft booths, and souvenirs to find on this festive boardwalk. You can even grab a drink and dinner while watching the sunset at Tommy’s Tiki Bar or the Salty Crab Bar. The sunsets are unbeatable here, so try and stay for it to have a magical end to your day trip.

16. Dunedin

Distance: 105 miles (90-minute drive)
Highlights: Downtown, Spring Training, Breweries, Honeymoon Island State Park

For a gulf coast day trip, one hidden gem I love is Dunedin! This area has small-town vibes compared to the rest of the Gulf Coast, but still plenty to do and see. You can start the day at Honeymoon Island State Park and check out either the beach or the nature trails. If you have a lot of time, you can even take the ferry to Caladesi Island from here and enjoy the untouched beaches and often dolphin sightings on the ride over!

In the afternoon head to Downtown Dunedin to explore the quirky shops and cafes. There are so many great places to get lunch with some of my favorites being the Crown and Bull and Frenchy’s Outpost. Be sure to check if there is a game at TD Ballpark. The Toronto Blue Jays practice here during Spring Training, and you check out the minor league Blue Jays team during the regular season.

If there isn’t a game going on, I recommend a brewery crawl for the afternoon. There are at least half a dozen Clearwater breweries within walking distance of each other, including Dunedin Brewery, 7venth Sun, and Cueni. For those who prefer a little pop culture history, the Ultimate Beatles Museum is a fun visit!

Lastly, end your Dunedin Day Trip with a sunset view. The Hi-Fi rooftop at the Fenway Hotel has gorgeous unobstructed views and tasty cocktails to go with it. For dinner, head downstairs to the Hew Parlor & Chophouse and do not miss the to-die-for French Onion Mac and Cheese! If you don’t fill up there, the family-owned Strachan’s Ice Cream shop is a sweet way to finish off the day trip before heading back to Orlando.

17. Rainbow Springs

Distance: 90 miles (90-minute drive)
Highlights: Tubing, Paddling, Nature Trails, Swimming, Cajun Cuisine

By far one of the prettiest freshwater springs in Florida is Rainbow Springs and it only takes an hour and a half to get here from Orlando! This beautiful spot is perfect for swimming, paddling, or just walking around.

Start your day at Rainbow Springs in the morning and treat yourself to a nature walk. There are actually four manmade waterfalls on the trail that add such a lovely ambiance! If you go in the winter, the walk is filled with colorful plumerias around every turn. However, it’s just as alluring the plentiful plant life the rest of the year.

After the walk, take a dip in the freshwater spring. The swimming area here is smaller than some other springs, but I find the clear blue water still makes for a refreshing swim. Then you can lay out on the grassy hill and eat a picnic lunch in the sun.

Midafternoon is the perfect time to go paddling here and you can rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards for around $20 per person. If you opt to bring your own, keep in mind, it’s almost a half a mile walk to the launch area. In the summer, many choose to do a tubing float trip instead. For this, you will have to start at the drop-off and a bus will take you back after your float trip.

Once you have had enough of basking in the beauty of Rainbow Springs State Park, I recommend ending the day with dinner at Swampy’s Bar and Grille. This is a kitschy local spot with excellent Cajun food. The Shrimp Po Boys and the Gator Bites are the biggest hits, but the menu has something for everyone. With waterfront views and tropical drinks, a day here will feel like you are on vacation, even if it’s just for a day!

18. Downtown Tampa

Distance: 85 miles (90-minute drive)
Highlights: Museum, Aquarium, Zoo, Gardens, Foodie

Just an hour and a half away from Orlando, Tampa is a city I can’t get enough of. This is an easy day trip that offers so much culture and a break from the theme parks of Orlando. Leave early enough to beat the traffic and start your day with one of Tampa’s top attractions.

Choose between ZooTampa, the Tampa Museum of Art, or the Florida Aquarium, depending on your interest. Adults will enjoy any of the options, whereas families should stick with the zoo or aquarium. Afterward, head to Armature Works for lunch.

This is my favorite food hall around and it has so many excellent foods stands to sample from. If you prefer a more traditional sit-down lunch Ulele and Steelback there offer that as well. Once you are full, take a walk down the Riverwalk to see the city views.

For the afternoon, head to either USF or the University of Tampa for some exploring. USF has a botanical garden open to the public with all sorts of trees, plants, and flowers. Over at the University of Tampa, you can learn about the history of the area at the Henry B. Plant Museum, as well as take in the stunning architecture.

Lastly, end the day at the historical Ybor City. There’s a free museum here that shows the history of the area, or you can tour a traditional cigar factory. For dinner, it’s a great area to try Cuban cuisine at places like Carmine’s Restaurant and the local brews at Tampa Bay Brewing Co. or the Cigar City Meadery.

19. Busch Gardens

Distance: 85 miles (90-minute drive)
Highlights: Rides, Animal Encounters, Shows, City

If you have done it all at the Orlando theme parks, it may be time to take a day trip to Busch Gardens. This theme park is only an hour and a half away from Orlando and has everything you could want from an amusement park, including rides, shows, animals, and water rides.

Plan to get there right before the park opens and hit the most popular attractions first. This includes Iron Gwazi (the tallest, fastest, and steepest hybrid coaster in the world), Cheetah Hunt, and Montu for coaster lovers. If you aren’t into speedy rides, start with the Skyride cable car and some of the animal experiences. They tend to be more active in the morning!

Don’t expect a gourmet lunch in the park, but there are plenty of options to satisfy your hunger. Zambia Smokehouse and Dragon Fire Grill are the best options. Afterward, you can continue riding coasters and seeing animals or opt to cool off with some water rides.

Busch Gardens has your typical rapids ride and a flume ride that are both family-friendly. You can also check out some of the shows, including an ice-skating performance and a Sesame Street musical. With nineteen rides and tons of animals, it is not hard to find ways to spend the whole day here!

If you want a unique spot for dinner after your day at the theme park, head to nearby Downtown Tampa. For nice days, the outdoor food hall, Sparkman Wharf has tons of food options and lovely waterfront views. However, if you rather dine inside, there are loads of excellent Tampa restaurants for that as well. Whether you end your day experiencing a little bit of Tampa or stay at the theme park all night, a Busch Gardens day trip makes for a fun experience for all.

20. Silver Springs

Distance: 85 miles (90-minute drive)
Highlights: Glass Bottom Boat Tours, Museum, Kayaking, Hiking

kayak-silver-springs-state-park — Photo by Morgan of **The Home That Roams**

If you want to visit a Florida freshwater spring and not get wet, Silver Springs is one of the best options. This one does not allow swimming, however, still offers a gorgeous park with so much to see.

The Glass Bottom Boat tour is one of the biggest appeals of this park. You can see the beautiful, blue water right through the bottom, as well as fish and often manatees! There is a thirty-minute tour ($13/person) offered daily and a ninety-minute tour ($25/person) offered on weekends. I would recommend the 10 AM tour since the manatees are more frequently seen feeding them.

After the tour, visit the Silver River Museum. With so many fossils and ancient artifacts, this place is a hit for all ages. If you go on a Saturday, you can often get a free tour of the Pioneer Village as well. Most spend an hour or so exploring the museum, and then you can have your own picnic lunch at the pavilions.

In the afternoon, paddling or hiking are two other attractions worth experiencing. You can rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard and explore the 1.1-mile loop around Ross Allen Island. For hiking, there are half a dozen trails ranging from 0.75 miles to 4. Miles. The Sandhill Trail and the Swamp Trail both provide excellent nature views.

To end the day, grab dinner in Historic Downtown Ocala. Here you can enjoy the Tuscawilla Art Park and all the sculptures there or the shops of Magnolia Avenue. There’s cuisine available for all kids, with highlights being Brick City Southern Kitchen and Infinite Ale Works. With Ocala National Forest close by, you can easily turn this into a weekend trip, or multiple day trips.

2+ Hours Away Day Trips

Lastly, I have thirteen ideas for day trips from Orlando that take more than two hours to drive to. Though driving over five hours round trip in one day can be a challenge, it is doable with proper planning.

If you plan to visit any of these destinations, make sure to spend at least four hours there to make the drive worth it and have a couple of drivers at least to take turns. Of course, sometimes the journey is the destination! Hopefully, these further away day trips will lead to all sorts of amazing vacation memories!

21. Downtown St. Pete

Distance: 105 miles (90-minute drive)
Highlights: Mural Tour, Breweries, Museums and Gardens

My favorite city in Florida is St. Petersburg, so if you can take the 1.5-hour drive there for a day trip, I think it is an excellent endeavor. You could easily make your own adventure by walking around and discovering colorful murals, craft breweries, and music on the pier.

If you prefer a more structured St. Petersburg day trip itinerary, start with a visit to the Sunken Gardens. It is a tropical oasis right in the middle of the city with flamingos, rainbow eucalyptus, and all sorts of flowers to see. For an indoor experience, the Dali Museum has some breathtaking art on display.

Afterward, get lunch downtown on the pier or at a foodie spot, like one of these St. Pete restaurants. Then take a biking tour to see the city on wheels! If you have time, the top of the Birchwood is an amazing place to watch the sunset before your drive back.

22. Tarpon Springs

Distance: 115 miles (2-hour drive)
Highlights: Boat Tours, History, Cuisine

For a taste of Greece without having to take an international flight, you can visit Tarpon Springs, which is only two hours away from Orlando. Immigrants from Greece flocked to this town in the 1890s and it became one of the largest natural sponge markets in the world. The markets still function today and with that, the town has kept its Greek cultural roots intact.

Start your day on the water with a dolphin and shelling cruise. Odyssey Cruises offers many throughout the day, but I recommend doing the 10:30 AM for the best chance of seeing dolphins. During the two-hour tour, the boat stops on Anclote Island where you can see a lighthouse and find shells. And you can even bring your dog!

With the tour getting done at 12:30, it’s the perfect time for lunch! You have to get an authentic Greek meal while you are here. I recommend going to the famous Hellas for a greek salad or a gyro platter. Don’t skip the feta dip, and if you are feeling daring, the broiled octopus is a favorite.

After lunch, make sure to peruse the shops and read about the history of the area. You can get your own authentic sponge and some baklava if you aren’t too full from lunch! Other things to do in the afternoon include visiting the Tarpon Springs Aquarium or trying the local beer at 5 Branches Brewing or wine at Tarpon Springs Castle Winery. If you still have time, you can visit nearby Dunedin, Clearwater Beach, or Tampa for dinner on the way back to Orlando.

23. St. Augustine

Distance: 115 miles (2-hour drive)
Highlights: Historical Tours, Nature Sightseeing, Downtown

With so many landmarks and attractions, it is impossible to see all of St. Augustine in one day! However, if you want to see some of it and this is your first time here, this guide will get you through the highlights.

Start early with a tour around Castillo de San Marcos so you can explore the oldest fort in the continental United States. This sets the stage for the history of St. Augustine and is best to follow with a museum tour. I recommend the Historic Flagler College Tour, the St. Augustine Lighthouse Museum, or the Old Jail.

For lunch, there are half a dozen awesome taco places to stop at. My favorites are Osprey Tacos and Nalu’s Tropical Takeout. This put you in a great spot for a nature experience. Either a bike ride at Anastasia State Park or a few hours at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm and Zoo, which is one of the coolest zoos I have been to.

End the day with a stroll through OldTtown checking out the touristy shops. If you want some libations, both St. Augustine Distillery and San Sebastian Winery offer free tours that are so fun! For dinner, my picks are the Floridian for Southern Fusion or St. Augustine Fish Camp for seafood. All this makes for a very full day, but if you want to take a day trip to St. Augustine from Orlando, this is the way to maximize your time there!

24. Sarasota

Distance: 130 miles (2-hour drive)
Highlights: History and Art Museums, Shopping and Dining, Gardens

For a gulf coast destination filled with history and culture. Sarasota is a two-hour drive to the coast. This city is known for being the winter home of the Ringling Brothers, and now has a fantastic museum celebrating this piece of American history, as well as many art museums.

A Sarasota from Orlando day trip should start at the Ringling Museum where visitors can explore the circus museum, the museum of art, the Ca’ d’Zan Mansion, and the Bayfront Gardens. You could spend a full day checking out each part, but I recommend focusing on two and then grabbing lunch after.

My recommendation for where to get lunch is St. Armands Circle. Here you can find all sorts of excellent Sarasota restaurants, including my favorites, Venezia and Shore. This is also a fun place for shopping and waterfront views.

End the day here with some nature, either at the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens or at the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. The botanical gardens here are some of the most gorgeous in Florida and the Mote aquarium is one of the best places to see sea turtles on the gulf! Young and old can appreciate the unique things of Florida with a day in Sarasota.

25. Peanut Island

Distance: 165 miles (2.5-hour drive)
Highlights: Boat Ride, Beaches, Nature Trails

If you don’t mind driving a little over two hours, Peanut Island is just the place for an island escape from Orlando. This little piece of paradise is right off the coast of West Palm Beach and it only takes a $16, 10-minute boat ride to get there! Best of all, you can take your dog too.

The first boat leaves daily from the Riviera Beach City Marina at 10 AM. You can catch a shuttle every twenty-five minutes and tickets can be purchased at the dock. Make sure to pack a lunch for your day trip, as there are no restaurants on the island.

Once there, I recommend spending the day taking a walk around the island, seeing the historic buildings, and basking in the sun on the beautiful beaches. This is also a great spot for snorkeling, so bring your own mask or rent one from the shuttle boat.

Adventurous folks can also kayak here instead of taking the shuttle. Plenty of nearby places offer kayak rentals for the day. It’s only a 300-yard paddle from the marina and you can get a unique perspective paddling around the island as well.

You can have a whole day of fun in the sun and then get dinner at one of the many amazing Palm Beach restaurants afterward. This is by far one of my favorite beaches to take a day trip to in all of Florida!

26. Gainesville

Distance: 110 miles (2-hour drive)
Highlights: College Tour, Nature Trails, Museum, Downtown

If you have a high schooler interested in going to UF, a day trip to Gainesville from Orlando is the ideal way to check it out. However, even those not interested in going to college here can also enjoy a day exploring “Hogtown” and the nature all around it.

For those doing a college tour, get an early start to the day with a 9 or 10 AM tour. You will need to register for one here ahead of time. If you rather check out the campus on your own, there are also instructions for a self-guided tour here.

Once you have visited the University of Florida, I recommend heading to Downtown Gainesville for lunch. Some of my favorite restaurants here open for lunch include Relish and The Patio. Make sure to grab a coffee from Wyatt’s too!

In the afternoon, you will want to check out the local sights. I highly recommend a hike at either La Chua Trailhead or Devil’s Mill Hopper. La Chua Trailhead is great for checking out gators whereas Devil’s Mill Hopper is more shaded with views into a sinkhole. If you prefer an indoor experience, the Florida Museum of Natural History has fascinating exhibits for young and old!

Of course, if you don’t want to do a college tour, you could do a hike in the morning and the museum in the afternoon. Craft beer lovers with time should also check out some local breweries, like Swamphead or First Magnitude. Lastly, end the day with some of the best Cuban food I have ever had at Mi Apa Latin Café!

27. Vero Beach

Distance: 110 miles (2-hour drive)
Highlights: Beach, Gardens, Shopping, and Downtown

For a relaxing day trip, Vero Beach is a tropical excursion great for Disney fans. This beach town is sleepier than some, but it makes up for it with beautiful scenery and an oceanfront Walt Disney World resort.

Before you head there, make a reservation for breakfast at either Disney’s Vero Beach or Cobalt at the Kimpton. Both hotels are beautiful spaces to walk around and it’s worth eating a late breakfast or brunch there. Afterward, head to Wabasso Beach Park for some fun in the sun.

Once you have had enough beach time, there are a variety of shops and cafes to check out by the water. I like to get a drink at Sailfish Brewing or ice cream from Kilwin’s. You can also drive over the bridge to Downtown and check out the street art, shops, and restaurants there.

Finally, if you get done with all that before 4 PM, I highly recommend checking out the McKee Gardens. This is on the way back and is a lovely place to see some gorgeous greenery. The giant water lilies and the enchanted forest are amazing spots to take pictures of and will add some tranquility to the end of your day trip.

28. Siesta Key

Distance: 140 miles (2.5-hour drive)
Highlights: Beaches, Water Sports, and Live Music

Another beach town brimming with charm that is perfect for a day trip from Orlando is Siesta Key. About two and a half hours west of Orlando, this is one of the best places for a day of fun in the sun. The beaches here are absolutely gorgeous and you could easily spend all your time relaxing at one.

A morning start at the beach is ideal, with plenty of time to try an activity. I recommend snorkeling, renting a beach cruiser, or going parasailing. There are of course tons of kayak and paddleboard tours available too.

For lunch, venture to Siesta Key Village and enjoy the kitschy gift shops. Come lunchtime, you do not have to worry about being sandy, as everyone is a beach bum here! Grab a meal at a chill eatery like Island House Tap & Grill or the Hub Baja Grill.

After, adults can spend a few hours jamming to the live music at Siesta Key Oyster Bar, whereas families will want to get some dessert from Big Olaf Creamery. If you still have time later that evening, you can take a sunset cruise or electric bike beach tour to soak in the magical views.

29. West Palm Beach

Distance: 170 miles (2.5-hour drive)
Highlights: Downtown, Attractions, Shopping, and Beaches

Though it is a bit of a drive, West Palm Beach is one of the best places on the east coast to see a unique side of Florida. This city is a mecca for art and culture, with so many museums, restaurants, and shops all around the city center.

There’s so much to do here, but art enthusiasts should start with the Norton Museum of Art, nature lovers with Mounts Botanical Garden, and history buffs with the Flagler Museum. For lunch, head to The Square or Clematis Street for Palm Beach foodie options galore.

Though the beaches are lovely, this area has so much more that makes it stand out. I recommend spending the rest of the day exploring the shops and gardens of Worth Ave or taking a sightseeing or sunset catamaran cruise. End the day at the food hall Grandview Public Market and head back to Orlando with that Palm Beach glow.

30. Boca Raton

Distance: 190 miles (3-hour drive)
Highlights: Art Museum, Shopping, Foodie Dining, Nature Center, and Beaches

One of the more upscale cities that you can take a day trip to from Orlando is Boca Raton, known for its art, beaches, and shopping. It’s a three-hour drive, so I recommend stopping at Mizner Park first to walk around and stretch your legs.

Here you can visit the Boca Raton Museum of Art, or do some shopping and sightseeing. I like to grab lunch at one of the fun restaurants here like Kapow Noodle Bar or Rebel House.

Afterward, a visit to Boca Raton is not complete without checking out the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center. This attraction has aquariums with sharks and fish, as well as a sea turtle rehabilitation hospital. Then finish off the day at Red Reef Park for some beach time.

There is a plethora of excellent restaurants in Boca Raton, so do not hesitate to get dinner while here! I recommend a casual spot like Mystic Lobster Roll Co if you were just at the beach or an intimate, Mediterranean dinner at Trattoria Romana if you are in a fancier mood.

31. Delray Beach

Distance: 190 miles (3-hour drive)
Highlights: City Art, Pinball, Nature Center, Foodie Spots, Gardens

For a little bit of something for everyone, Delray Beach is a Florida town within day trip driving distance. Start at Atlantic Avenue and spend some time checking out the shops and murals of this street. There are plenty of art galleries to peruse and you can have a late breakfast or an early lunch. I love Delray Beach Market and El Camino.

Afterward, check out an indoor activity like the Silverball Retro Arcade and Museum. This spot has all sorts of pinball machines from the 1950s and you can get unlimited plays while you are here! For something more educational, the Sandoway House Nature Center is a cool place to see sharks and reptiles.

If you are thirsty, SaltWater Brewery is a fun time for all. There are tons of yard games, frequent live music, food trucks, and brewery tours. Or for a relaxing afternoon stroll, the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens are a breathtaking sight, with so much exquisite architecture and plant life to see.

That should cover a day, but there is always the beach and mini golf if you need more to fit in! I recommend heading back to Atlantic Avenue to close off the day with a bite before the drive back.

32. Fort Lauderdale

Distance: 210 miles (3+ hour drive)
Highlights: Canal Tour, Foodie Spots, Gardens, Museums, Beach

Just a little over three hours away, Fort Lauderdale is another Florida city worth visiting. There is a network of canals around Las Olas Boulevard making it appear like a mini-Venice. I always love starting the day trip here with a paddle tour, specifically this one with Mr. Beaches, the paddleboarding corgi!

After seeing the city from the water, check out one of the waterfront Fort Lauderdale restaurants for lunch. Or if it’s raining, head to the Sistrunk Marketplace food hall where you can indulge in all sorts of cuisines.

An afternoon spent in Fort Lauderdale is best spent at museums. My favorite is the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, which offers both indoor and outdoor history to discover. However, the Museum of Discovery and Science, the NSU Art Museum, and the Antique Car Museum are all educational and entertaining afternoon activities. End the day trip here with a walk on the beach or a sunset meal at a rooftop bar for the best views!

33. Miami

Distance: 210 miles (3+ hour drive)
Highlights: South Beach, Art Deco Tour, Wynwood, Little Havana, Dining

A day trip from Orlando to Miami is no joke and it is the furthest destination away on this list. However, it is a world-class city with so much to see and do. If this is your only chance to visit, this is my recommendation for maximizing a day trip there.

You will want to leave as early as possible and start your day in South Beach. This is the most famous part of Miami and is worth exploring. Get a classic Cuban breakfast at Havana 1957 and then head out on your own self-guided art deco tour. This will show you all the historic landmarks. End with a view of the water from South Pointe Pier and then move on to a different part of the Magic City.

From here, I suggest lunch at either Little Havana or Wynwood. You could do a guided foodie tour of either and learn about the history or just find your own places to go. Both neighborhoods offer a distinct perspective of Miami and lots of tasty food and drinks. Either are ideal locales to spend the afternoon taking pictures and wandering through the streets You could potentially fit in both, but to have a more relaxing experience, I recommend choosing one or the other.

From here, finish off the day in Downtown Miami. Start with Area 31 for a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city and excellent views of the city. Then for dinner, there’s so much amazing cuisine here and you can choose from options like Station 28 or Verde. With a full stomach, you can head back to Orlando satisfied with a full day of Miami experiences!

Know Before You Go: Fun Day Trips from Orlando, Florida

Whether you live in Orlando or you are looking for a unique adventure during your trip there, these day trip ideas should make for a fun experience! From wildlife sightings to vibrant city tours, there is so much to do within a three-hour drive from Orlando. Before you take one of these day trips, here are some tips to keep in mind!

These driving times should be pretty accurate, but there may be traffic during February through April with spring breakers. Also, snowbird season (January – April) can lead to some slowdowns with driving as well. Rush Hour traffic can be common on I-4 as well.
On the other hand, watch out for afternoon showers when visiting July through October. I often recommend waiting until after dinner to head back from a day trip so you can avoid getting caught mid-drive in a storm!
While exploring, make sure to leave nature undisturbed and always pick up trash. You can take shells home if you like, but make sure there are no living organisms in the shells when you do!
No matter what you are doing for your day trip from Orlando, you will probably want to bring sunscreen and bug spray. I like Sun Bum and these bug-repellent wipes.
Even if you are not bringing a picnic lunch, I always recommend packing a cooler with drinks and a couple of snacks for day trips. This way you can enjoy nice, cold water or seltzer on the drive back!
Check out the map below to get an idea of where each day trip will take you. To save the map for later, click the star next to the map name. Then go to Google Maps -> Menu -> Your Places -> Maps and you will see it.

What’s your favorite day trip to take from Orlando? Let me know if I missed any in the comments! While this post focused on places outside of Orlando, be sure to check out my guide for things to do in Orlando for adults!

Check out my complete guide for Florida day trip ideas if you are looking for places in South Florida!