Greatest Day Journeys From Orlando (By a Metropolis Native)

Orlando, situated in central Florida, is a perfect vacation spot for day journeys. Its central place gives quite a few alternatives to discover the encircling areas and have lots of enjoyable alongside the best way. Whether or not you’re fascinated with 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 varied close by locations, all inside an affordable distance. Orlando is understood for its proximity to a number of common locations, which make for ultimate days out. For those who’re on the lookout for day journeys, and issues to do within the USA, think about setting off for a day of journey from Orlando, Florida.

Greatest Day Journeys From Orlando

I’ve compiled an inventory of the 15 greatest day journeys from Orlando. This record of journeys from Orlando gives a wide range of experiences, from historic cities to lovely seashores and pure wonders. So, pack your baggage and prepare to discover the very best that Central Florida has to supply.

1. Go to the Kennedy House Heart

A preferred day journey from Orlando is to the Kennedy House Heart. 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 gives a glimpse into the wonders of area exploration.

Considered one of my favourite issues concerning the Kennedy House Heart 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 House Heart gives an unparalleled alternative to witness the wonders of area exploration up shut.

Distance from Orlando: 49 minutes or 51.4 miles
Location: House Commerce Manner, Merritt Island, FL 32953
Getting There: One of the simplest ways to get to the Kennedy House Heart from Orlando is to take FL 407 N to FL 528 E.
Greatest Tour from Orlando: Kennedy House Heart Tour & Transport from Orlando and Kissimmee 
Should-Do Actions: Go to the Rocket Backyard, which incorporates 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 House Heart is the House 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 gives a variety of points of interest and actions which might be positive to captivate guests of all ages. One of many important highlights of St. Augustine is its wealthy historical past. Based in 1565, it’s the oldest constantly occupied European-established settlement within the United States.

Guests can discover town’s historic district, stuffed with 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 world, St. Augustine boasts lovely seashores and beautiful pure landscapes.

Distance from Orlando: 1 hr 41 minutes or 104.6 miles
Location: St. Augustine, FL, USA
Getting There: One of the simplest ways to get to St Augustine from Orlando is to take I-4 E to I-95 N.
Greatest 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 gives a pleasant culinary expertise. Considered one of their standout dishes (and certainly one of my favorites) is Columbia’s Authentic “1905” Salad.

3. Spend a Day at Clearwater Seaside

Clearwater Seaside is a perfect vacation spot selection for a day journey from Orlando. This beautiful seaside gives breathtaking views and is understood for its lovely seashores and white sand. Clearwater Seaside is undoubtedly the right place for enjoyable and benefiting from your getaway.

Along with its pure magnificence, this spot gives a variety of actions and points of interest. 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, Seaside-Clearwater, Florida
Getting There: One of the simplest ways to get to Clearwater Seaside from Orlando is to take I-4 W.
Greatest Tour from Orlando: Day Journey to Clearwater with Sea Screamer Trip 
Should-Do Actions: Don’t miss the breathtaking sundown views at Pier 60. This iconic pier hosts a full of life sundown celebration each night that includes road performers, artisans, and reside music. I like to seize a spot on the seaside, benefit from the vibrant ambiance, and witness the mesmerizing colours of the sundown.
The place to Eat: My favourite place to eat whereas at Clearwater Seaside 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 incredible choice for a enjoyable day journey from Orlando. The park is dwelling 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 gives a number of different points of interest and actions. There are guided wildlife excursions, the place educated park rangers share fascinating details about the animals and their actions. Company of the park may also take pleasure in boat excursions alongside the Homosassa River, the place dolphins, osprey, and different wildlife will 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: One of the simplest ways to get to Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park is to take the Florida Turnpike.
Greatest Tour from Orlando: Swim with Manatees and Homosassa State Park Go to  
Should-Do Actions: Attempt a day by day wildlife encounter program. These packages permit 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 inside the picturesque environment of Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. It’s an excellent place to seize a fast chew or take pleasure in an off-the-cuff meal. 

5. Kayak the Econlockhatchee River

Kayaking the Econlockhatchee River is a good day journey from Orlando. Its proximity to town makes it a handy selection for outside fans trying to escape the hustle and bustle of town. The river gives 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 understood for its various ecosystem, which supplies a habitat for varied fowl species, turtles, and alligators. It really is a nature lover’s paradise.

Distance from Orlando: 37 minutes or 33.8 miles
Location: Florida 32754, USA
Getting There: It is a nice day journey from Orlando by automobile. All you must do is drive on FL 417-N.
Greatest Tour from Orlando: Kayaking the Econlockhatchee River  
Should-Do Actions:  One must-do exercise is kayaking; exploring the river’s pure magnificence at your individual tempo. The river’s calm waters make it a great location for inexperienced persons and skilled kayakers. Immerse your self within the tranquility of the environment, taking within the lush vegetation and the soothing sounds of nature – you may even be fortunate sufficient to identify manatees (I’ve noticed these light giants, also called sea cows, many occasions within the river’s waters).
The place to Eat: Be sure to seize a chew at The 1 Cantina – a Mexican restaurant close to the river. They serve nice meals and every thing from Margaritas to Mezcal Cocktails.

6. Discover the Everglades in Kissimmee

The Everglades is an enchanting pure wonderland that gives a novel alternative to discover the ample wildlife and a few breathtaking landscapes. One of the crucial thrilling methods to expertise this outstanding ecosystem is by taking a guided airboat tour.

Not solely does this space present an exhilarating journey, however it additionally permits guests to look at alligators of their pure atmosphere. These historical reptiles, with their spectacular dimension and fearsome look, have lengthy captivated the creativeness of tourists. You’ll want to have your digicam prepared!

Distance from Orlando: 30 Minutes or 22.0 Miles
Location: The Everglades
Getting There: One of the simplest ways to get to the Everglades from Orlando is to take the Florida Turnpike or I-4.
Greatest 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 gives a novel and thrilling alternative to discover the huge and various ecosystem of the Everglades.
The place to Eat: Granny’s Southern Smokehouse is a private favourite with regards to eating out. This cozy restaurant gives a pleasant number of Southern delicacies that may fulfill any cravings. Among the many many scrumptious choices on the menu, one dish that I extremely advocate is the pulled pork sandwich. 

7. Head to Worldwide Drive

An important day journey from Orlando is to move off and discover Worldwide Drive. This bustling strip gives an array of thrilling actions and points of interest that may hold you entertained all through the day. From world-class purchasing to thrilling amusement parks, there’s one thing for everybody right here.

One of many highlights of Worldwide Drive is its in depth number of purchasing choices. Whether or not you’re on the lookout for designer manufacturers, distinctive souvenirs, or fashionable boutiques, you’re positive to search out no matter you’re after, (and sure extra). Fashionable purchasing locations embrace the Orlando Worldwide Premium Shops and the Pointe Orlando purchasing advanced.

Distance from Orlando: 21 Minutes or 15.6 Miles
Location: Worldwide Dr, Florida, USA
Getting There: One of the simplest ways to get to Worldwide Drive from Orlando is to take I-4.
Greatest 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 purchasing complexes and eating venues. Among the many many points of interest, certainly 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 fame as top-of-the-line locations to eat within the space.  

8. Take a Furry Buddy to Daytona Seaside

Daytona Seaside is the right vacation spot for a simple day journey. Recognized for its beautiful seashores and enjoyable ambiance, you’ll discover a wide range of actions for guests of all ages right here. One of many important points of interest of Daytona Seaside is its lovely shoreline. With over 23 miles of white sandy seashores, loads of area exists for sunbathing, swimming, and constructing sandcastles.

For those who choose land actions, this spot additionally gives a variety of non-sea-related actions. I take pleasure in strolling alongside the boardwalk and having fun with the full of life ambiance; dwelling to varied outlets, eating places, and amusement rides, Daytona Seaside supplies leisure for the whole household.

Distance from Orlando: 58 Minutes or 56.9 Miles
Location: Daytona Seaside, FL, USA
Getting There: One of the simplest ways to get to Daytona Seaside from Orlando is to take I-4 E.
Greatest Tour from Orlando: E-Bike Tour on the World’s Most Well-known Seaside  
Should-Do Actions: For those who’re planning a visit to Daytona Seaside, try the automobile races – a must-see for any motorsports fanatic or thrill-seeker. Daytona Worldwide Speedway is the guts of racing in Daytona Seaside. 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 common venue is understood for its reside music and breathtaking views of the shoreline.

9. Go to the Bok Tower Gardens

The Bok Tower Gardens is an attention-grabbing place to go to close to Orlando, Florida. Situated in Lake Wales, this beautiful backyard and fowl sanctuary gives guests a novel 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 fantastically 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: One of the simplest ways 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 advocate embarking on a guided tour for these on the lookout 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 gives a tasty array of sandwiches, wraps, beer, and wine amidst the breathtaking fantastic thing about the backyard environment. 

10. Discover town of Clermont

For those who’re on the lookout for a enjoyable day journey from Orlando, think about visiting the close by metropolis of Clermont. Providing a variety of thrilling actions and points of interest, a day spent right here is bound to make your journey all of the extra pleasant. One of many high issues to do in Clermont is to discover its lovely pure environment.

Clermont can also be dwelling to a number of wineries, making it an excellent vacation spot for wine lovers. You’ll be able to 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 reside music live shows and festivals.

Distance from Orlando: 33 Minutes or 25.3 Miles
Location: Clermont, FL, USA
Getting There: One of the simplest ways to get to Clermont from Orlando is to take FL-408 W and FL-50 W.
Greatest 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 group 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 gives a glimpse into the wealthy historical past of the Clermont space.
The place to Eat: Friar Tuck, a British cafe, is undeniably top-of-the-line locations to fulfill your cravings for tasty meals. Relating to eating right here, there are two dishes that I by no means fail to order – their mouthwatering fish and chips and their rooster pot pie. Other than these two standout dishes, Friar Tuck gives a wide range of different scrumptious choices.

11. Get pleasure from a Enjoyable-Crammed day at Legoland

Legoland Theme Park in Lakeland, simply exterior of Orlando, is a incredible 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 points of interest, thrilling rides, and spectacular Lego sculptures, this theme park gives an unforgettable expertise.

Along with the rides and points of interest, Legoland gives a wide range of reveals and leisure choices. The 4D cinema provides an additional dimension to film viewing, with particular results that have interaction all of the senses. The Lego Metropolis Stage supplies reside performances and interactive experiences which might be positive 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: One of the simplest ways 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 exhilarating journey via a medieval citadel, whereas the Flying Faculty gives a simulated flight expertise.
The place to Eat: The Market Restaurant is the very best place to eat at LEGOLAND Florida. Situated within the coronary heart of the park, this eating choice gives all kinds of decisions to fulfill each palate. The Market Restaurant is a quick-service restaurant that gives visitors with a handy and scrumptious eating expertise.

12. Go to Mount Dora from Orlando

Mount Dora is a incredible vacation spot for a day journey. It’s certainly one of my favourite locations to go to, providing many actions and points of interest that make for a memorable day trip. One of many highlights of visiting Mount Dora is exploring the charming downtown space. The streets are lined with quaint outlets, artwork galleries, and vintage shops, providing a novel purchasing expertise.

For those who’re a nature fanatic, Mount Dora received’t disappoint. Town is surrounded by lovely lakes, making it the right spot for boating, fishing, or just having fun with a leisurely lakeside picnic. You may as well lease 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: One of the simplest ways 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 outlets, artwork galleries, and eating places. The Mount Dora Neighborhood Constructing and Gilbert Park is a should for nature lovers. Outside actions embrace mountaineering trails, picnic areas, and a playground for kids.
The place to Eat: The Mount Dora Bistro is an enthralling 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 gives. The bistro caters to a variety of tastes and preferences with its reasonably priced menu.

13. Take a Journey to the Florida Mall

A singular day journey from Orlando will be discovered on the Florida Mall. This vacation spot gives a wide range of actions and points of interest that may hold 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 take pleasure in.

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 personalised stuffed animals. From selecting the right bear to choosing outfits and equipment, this workshop supplies a enjoyable and memorable exercise for kids and adults alike.

Distance from Orlando: 19 Minutes or 7.3 Miles
Location: 8001 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32809
Getting There: One of the simplest ways to get to the Florida Mall from Orlando is to take US-441 to Orange Blossom Path S.
Greatest 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 via varied inventive actions and exhibitions. From coloring stations and video games to a digital actuality expertise, the Crayola Expertise supplies a enjoyable and academic journey for all ages.
The place to Eat: Among the many many eateries situated inside the mall, certainly one of my favourite locations to dine is Bucco di Beppo – an Italian restaurant identified for its scrumptious and genuine delicacies. The menu at Bucco di Beppo is in depth, 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 important day journey from Orlando is to go to the nice metropolis of Tampa. One of many highlights of visiting Tampa is exploring its vibrant downtown space. Town’s downtown is dwelling to a wide range of cultural and historic landmarks, such because the Tampa Theatre, a wonderful 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 on the lookout for some outside enjoyable, Tampa has a lot to supply. Town is surrounded by lovely seashores, together with Clearwater Seaside and St. Pete Seaside, each of that are only a brief drive away. Whether or not you’re trying to calm down on the white sandy shores or strive your hand at water sports activities, Tampa’s seashores are the right place to spend a sunny day.

Two of my favourite must-do actions within the space embrace a go to to Busch Gardens and exploring the bustling port. Busch Gardens is a famend amusement park that mixes thrilling rides and fascinating reside reveals. With over 300 acres of fun-filled points of interest, it ensures an unforgettable expertise.

Distance from Orlando: 1 Hour and 16 Minutes or 84.4 Miles
Location: Tampa, FL
Getting There: One of the simplest ways to get to Tampa from Orlando is to take I-4 W.
Greatest 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 gives a novel glimpse into 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 top-of-the-line eating places in Tampa Bay. Situated on the waterfront, this native-inspired eatery gives a novel 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 gives nature lovers and outside fans a novel day journey to recollect. Spanning over 600 sq. miles, this huge forest is dwelling to various ecosystems, wildlife, and leisure actions that may go away guests awe-struck.

Ocala Nationwide Forest boasts an intensive community of nature trails, providing alternatives for hikers of all ability ranges to immerse themselves in the great thing about the encircling wilderness. The Juniper Springs Recreation Space is a well-liked start line, offering entry to a number of trails, together with the Juniper Springs Path and the Yearling Path. These trails wind via lush forests, crystal-clear springs, and historical 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:  One of the simplest ways to get to the Ocala Nationwide Forest from Orlando is to take FL-19 N.
Should-Do Actions: Over 600 miles of mountaineering trails, water sports activities, exploring nature. The Ocala Nationwide Forest gives a mess of must-do actions for guests to take pleasure in.
The place to Eat: The very best place to eat close to the Ocala Nationwide Forest is Gator Joe’s Seaside Bar and Grill. This family-friendly institution gives a incredible eating expertise that may fulfill everybody. Whether or not you’re on the lookout for a scrumptious meal or a enjoyable time, Gator Joe’s has all of it.

Greatest Day Journey Excursions from Orlando

Orlando, Florida is understood for its world-class theme parks and points of interest. Nevertheless, for those who’re trying to discover past town limits and expertise the pure magnificence and cultural choices of the encircling space, there are a number of wonderful day journey excursions obtainable. Whether or not you’re fascinated with wildlife encounters, historic websites, or scenic landscapes, these excursions provide one thing for every kind of vacationers:

1. Kennedy Heart Journey with Transport: It is a ten-hour tour and pick-up is obtainable at most motels in Orlando. As soon as on the Kennedy House Heart, a tour information will present you across the space and reply any questions you may need. Click on right here to guide.

2. St. Augustine Day Journey with Tour Choices: This tour from Orlando gives 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, via bushes, and even into the water. Click on right here to search out out extra.

4. Clearwater Seaside Pirate Cruise with Lunch: On this 12-hour tour you’ll must arrive on the designated assembly level 20 minutes earlier than departure earlier than setting off for an pleasant, round-trip experience to the seaside. Click on right here to guide.

5. Swim with Manatees and Homosassa State Park Go to: This 11-hour tour consists of decide up from a predesignated space and permits the prospect to swim with the manatees – lunch is even included! Click on right here to guide your spot.

Day Journeys Round Orlando: FAQs

Listed here are some solutions to regularly requested questions on the very best day journeys from Orlando, Florida:

In Conclusion

I hope this record of the 15 greatest day journeys from Orlando has been useful. Whether or not you’re a neighborhood or a customer, Orlando gives a mess of choices for thrilling day journeys. From beautiful pure wonders to historic landmarks and thrilling theme parks, there’s one thing for everybody to take pleasure in.

Orlando isn’t solely a incredible vacation spot in itself but additionally serves as a gateway to quite a few unbelievable day journeys. Whether or not you’re fascinated with historical past, nature, journey, or just in search of a change of surroundings, any certainly one of these 15 day journeys talked about would make an excellent addition to your itinerary.