Orlando, positioned in central Florida, is a perfect vacation spot for day journeys. Its central place presents quite a few alternatives to discover the encompassing areas and have a lot of enjoyable alongside the way in which. Whether you’re all in favour of nature, historical past, or thrilling adventures, day journeys from Orlando supply a number 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 numerous close by locations, all inside a affordable distance. Orlando is understood for its proximity to a number of widespread locations, which make for ideally suited days out. If you’re on the lookout for day journeys, and issues to do within the USA, contemplate setting off for a day of journey from Orlando, Florida.

Best Day Trips From Orlando

I’ve compiled a listing of the 15 finest day journeys from Orlando. This listing of journeys from Orlando presents a number of experiences, from historic cities to stunning seashores and pure wonders. So, pack your luggage and prepare to discover the very best that Central Florida has to supply.

1. Visit the Kennedy Space Center

A preferred day journey from Orlando is to the Kennedy Space Center. Located on the east coast of Florida, this NASA facility is a must-visit for area fanatics. Visitors can discover interactive displays and even meet actual astronauts. It’s an unimaginable expertise that gives a glimpse into the wonders of area exploration.

One of my favourite issues concerning the Kennedy Space Center 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 Space Center presents an unparalleled alternative to witness the wonders of area exploration up shut.

Distance from Orlando: 49 minutes or 51.4 miles
Location: Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL 32953
Getting There: The finest technique to get to the Kennedy Space Center from Orlando is to take FL 407 N to FL 528 E.
Best Tour from Orlando: Kennedy Space Center Tour & Transport from Orlando and Kissimmee 
Must-Do Activities: Visit the Rocket Garden, which options a historic rockets and spacecraft assortment, or attempt the Astronaut Training Experience.
Where to Eat: A favourite spot of mine close to the Kennedy Space Center is the Space Bar – a rooftop bar providing scrumptious cocktails, small snacks, and sandwiches. 

2. Explore the Historic City of St. Augustine

St. Augustine is a wonderful vacation spot for a day journey from Orlando. This notable metropolis presents a big selection of points of interest and actions which might be positive to captivate guests of all ages. One of the primary highlights of St. Augustine is its wealthy historical past. Founded in 1565, it’s the oldest repeatedly occupied European-established settlement within the United States.

Visitors can discover town’s historic district, full of 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. In addition to its significance to the world, St. Augustine boasts stunning seashores and gorgeous pure landscapes.

Distance from Orlando: 1 hr 41 minutes or 104.6 miles
Location: St. Augustine, FL, USA
Getting There: The finest technique to get to St Augustine from Orlando is to take I-4 E to I-95 N.
Best Tour from Orlando: St Augustine Day Trip with Tour Options  
Must-Do Activities: My favourite factor to do is to go to the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. I discovered concerning the metropolis’s early historical past on the archaeological park, noticed a reproduction of the famed fountain, and explored the plush gardens.
Where to Eat: One of the highest eating locations in St. Augustine is the Colombia Restaurant. Situated within the historic district, this restaurant presents a pleasant culinary expertise. One of their standout dishes (and one in all my favorites) is Columbia’s Original “1905” Salad.

3. Spend a Day at Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach is a perfect vacation spot selection for a day journey from Orlando. This beautiful seashore presents breathtaking views and is understood for its stunning seashores and white sand. Clearwater Beach is undoubtedly the right place for stress-free and taking advantage of your getaway.

In addition to its pure magnificence, this spot presents a vary 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, Beach-Clearwater, Florida
Getting There: The finest technique to get to Clearwater Beach from Orlando is to take I-4 W.
Best Tour from Orlando: Day Trip to Clearwater with Sea Screamer Ride 
Must-Do Activities: 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 seashore, benefit from the vibrant ambiance, and witness the mesmerizing colours of the sundown.
Where to Eat: My favourite place to eat whereas at Clearwater Beach 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 house to a number of native Florida wildlife, together with manatees, alligators, black bears, and panthers. One of the highlights of the park is the underwater observatory, the place guests can get an up-close take a look at manatees of their pure habitat.

In addition to the underwater observatory, the park presents 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. Guests of the park also can get pleasure from boat excursions alongside the Homosassa River, the place dolphins, osprey, and different wildlife may 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: The finest technique to get to Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park is to take the Florida Turnpike.
Best Tour from Orlando: Swim with Manatees and Homosassa State Park Visit  
Must-Do Activities: Try a each day wildlife encounter program. These applications permit guests to be taught 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 take a look at these wonderful creatures and even take part in feeding periods.
Where to Eat: My go-to is the Grill at Pepper Creek. This restaurant is positioned throughout the picturesque environment of Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. It’s a excellent place to seize a fast chew or get pleasure from a informal meal. 

5. Kayak the Econlockhatchee River

Kayaking the Econlockhatchee River is a nice day journey from Orlando. Its proximity to town makes it a handy selection for outside fanatics trying to escape the hustle and bustle of town. The river presents a serene and picturesque setting; excellent for a romantic day journey from Orlando.

As you paddle alongside the river, you’ll be surrounded by lush vegetation and considerable wildlife. The Econlockhatchee River is understood for its various ecosystem, which supplies a habitat for numerous chook species, turtles, and alligators. It actually is a nature lover’s paradise.

Distance from Orlando: 37 minutes or 33.8 miles
Location: Florida 32754, USA
Getting There: This is a nice day journey from Orlando by automobile. All you need to do is drive on FL 417-N.
Best Tour from Orlando: Kayaking the Econlockhatchee River  
Must-Do Activities:  One must-do exercise is kayaking; exploring the river’s pure magnificence at your personal tempo. The river’s calm waters make it a super 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 would possibly even be fortunate sufficient to identify manatees (I’ve noticed these light giants, also called sea cows, many occasions within the river’s waters).
Where to Eat: Make positive 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. Explore the Everglades in Kissimmee

The Everglades is a fascinating pure wonderland that gives a distinctive alternative to discover the considerable wildlife and a few breathtaking landscapes. One of essentially the most 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 watch alligators of their pure setting. These historic reptiles, with their spectacular measurement and fearsome look, have lengthy captivated the creativeness of tourists. Be positive to have your digital camera prepared!

Distance from Orlando: 30 Minutes or 22.0 Miles
Location: The Everglades
Getting There: The finest technique to get to the Everglades from Orlando is to take the Florida Turnpike or I-4.
Best Tour from Orlando: 90 Minutes Everglades Airboat Tour in Central Florida  
Must-Do Activities: One of the must-do actions is an airboat tour. Embarking on an airboat tour presents a distinctive and thrilling alternative to discover the huge and various ecosystem of the Everglades.
Where to Eat: Granny’s Southern Smokehouse is a private favourite in the case of eating out. This cozy restaurant presents a pleasant number of Southern delicacies that may fulfill any cravings. Among the numerous scrumptious choices on the menu, one dish that I extremely advocate is the pulled pork sandwich. 

7. Head to International Drive

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

One of the highlights of International Drive is its intensive number of procuring choices. Whether you’re on the lookout for designer manufacturers, distinctive souvenirs, or stylish boutiques, you’re positive to search out no matter you’re after, (and sure extra). Popular procuring locations embrace the Orlando International Premium Outlets and the Pointe Orlando procuring complicated.

Distance from Orlando: 21 Minutes or 15.6 Miles
Location: International Dr, Florida, USA
Getting There: The finest technique to get to International Drive from Orlando is to take I-4.
Best Tour from Orlando: Flavors of Icon Park Foodie Walking Tour 
Must-Do Activities: This iconic strip has one thing for everybody – from world-class theme parks to procuring complexes and eating venues. Among the numerous points of interest, one in all my favorites is Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum.
Where to Eat: Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurant is an internationally acclaimed eating institution on International Drive. Renowned for its distinctive meals and stylish ambiance, it’s earned a status as among the best locations to eat within the space.  

8. Take a Furry Friend to Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach is the right vacation spot for a straightforward day journey. Known for its gorgeous seashores and enjoyable ambiance, you’ll discover a number of actions for guests of all ages right here. One of the primary points of interest of Daytona Beach is its stunning shoreline. With over 23 miles of white sandy seashores, loads of area exists for sunbathing, swimming, and constructing sandcastles.

If you like land actions, this spot additionally presents a big selection of non-sea-related actions. I get pleasure from strolling alongside the boardwalk and having fun with the full of life ambiance; house to numerous outlets, eating places, and amusement rides, Daytona Beach supplies leisure for the complete household.

Distance from Orlando: 58 Minutes or 56.9 Miles
Location: Daytona Beach, FL, USA
Getting There: The finest technique to get to Daytona Beach from Orlando is to take I-4 E.
Best Tour from Orlando: E-Bike Tour on the World’s Most Famous Beach  
Must-Do Activities: If you’re planning a journey to Daytona Beach, try the automobile races – a must-see for any motorsports fanatic or thrill-seeker. Daytona International Speedway is the center of racing in Daytona Beach. 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.
Where to Eat: One of the highlights for me is the Ocean Deck restaurant. This widespread venue is understood for its reside music and breathtaking views of the shoreline.

9. Visit the Bok Tower Gardens

The Bok Tower Gardens is an fascinating place to go to close to Orlando, Florida. Located in Lake Wales, this gorgeous backyard and chook sanctuary presents guests a distinctive and enchanting expertise. The fundamental 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 superbly manicured backyard that spans 250 acres. Visitors can stroll alongside the winding paths, discovering numerous vegetation, flowers, and bushes alongside the way in which. The gardens are meticulously maintained and supply 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: The finest technique to get to the Bok Tower Gardens from Orlando is to take I-4 W to US Hwy 27 S.
Must-Do Activities: 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 discovered a lot! Knowledgeable guides will lead you thru the gardens, offering fascinating insights into the historical past and significance of every space.
Where to Eat: I had the chance to dine on the Blue Palmetto Cafe – an eatery that gives a delectable array of sandwiches, wraps, beer, and wine amidst the breathtaking great thing about the backyard environment. 

10. Explore town of Clermont

If you’re on the lookout for a enjoyable day journey from Orlando, contemplate visiting the close by metropolis of Clermont. Offering a vary of thrilling actions and points of interest, a day spent right here is certain to make your journey all of the extra gratifying. One of the highest issues to do in Clermont is to discover its stunning pure environment.

Clermont can be house to a number of wineries, making it a nice vacation spot for wine lovers. You can go to the Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards, the place you’ll be able to take a tour of the vineyard, be taught concerning the winemaking course of, and pattern a few of their award-winning wines. The vineyard additionally hosts numerous 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: The finest technique to get to Clermont from Orlando is to take FL-408 W and FL-50 W.
Best Tour from Orlando: Revolution Off-Road Mucky Duck Experience
Must-Do Activities: For historical past and tradition, a go to to the President’s Hall of Fame is a should. This distinctive museum showcases a assortment of wax figures portraying all of the US presidents and their presidencies, in addition to displays on American historical past. Explore the South Lake Historical Society Museum, which presents a glimpse into the wealthy historical past of the Clermont space.
Where to Eat: Friar Tuck, a British cafe, is undeniably among the best locations to fulfill your cravings for tasty meals. When it involves 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. Apart from these two standout dishes, Friar Tuck presents a number of different scrumptious choices.

11. Enjoy a Fun-Filled day at Legoland

Legoland Theme Park in Lakeland, simply outdoors of Orlando, is a incredible vacation spot for a fun-filled day. This amusement park is a must-visit for households and Lego fanatics alike. With its distinctive mix of interactive points of interest, thrilling rides, and spectacular Lego sculptures, this theme park presents an unforgettable expertise.

In addition to the rides and points of interest, Legoland presents a number of exhibits and leisure choices. The 4D cinema provides an additional dimension to film viewing, with particular results that interact all of the senses. The Lego City 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 Way, Winter Haven, FL, 33884  
Getting There: The finest technique to get to Legoland from Orlando is by I-4 W and US Hwy 27 S.
Must-Do Activities: 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 a thrilling journey by means of a medieval fortress, whereas the Flying School presents a simulated flight expertise.
Where to Eat: The Market Restaurant is the very best place to eat at LEGOLAND Florida. Located within the coronary heart of the park, this eating choice presents a vast number of selections to fulfill each palate. The Market Restaurant is a quick-service restaurant that gives visitors with a handy and scrumptious eating expertise.

12. Visit Mount Dora from Orlando

Mount Dora is a incredible vacation spot for a day journey. It’s one in all my favourite locations to go to, providing many actions and points of interest that make for a memorable time out. One of the 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 distinctive procuring expertise.

If you’re a nature fanatic, Mount Dora received’t disappoint. The metropolis is surrounded by stunning lakes, making it the right spot for boating, fishing, or just having fun with a leisurely lakeside picnic. You also can 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: The finest technique to get to Mount Dora from Orlando is to take FL 429-N.
Must-Do Activities: Simply Lake Dora itself, boat, fish, and take seaplane rides. Visit the historic downtown space and its charming outlets, artwork galleries, and eating places. The Mount Dora Community Building and Gilbert Park is a should for nature lovers. Outdoor actions embrace mountain climbing trails, picnic areas, and a playground for kids.
Where to Eat: The Mount Dora Bistro is a charming institution within the coronary heart of Mount Dora. When visiting this pleasant city, I can not resist the attract of this restaurant and the delectable meals it presents. The bistro caters to a big selection of tastes and preferences with its reasonably priced menu.

13. Take a Trip to the Florida Mall

A novel day journey from Orlando may be discovered on the Florida Mall. This vacation spot presents a number of actions and points of interest that may hold guests entertained all through the day. Whether you’re touring alone, with mates, or with household, there’s one thing for everybody to get pleasure from.

One of the highlights of the Florida Mall, and a private favourite of mine, is the Build-A-Bear Workshop. This interactive expertise permits guests to create their very personal personalised stuffed animals. From selecting the right bear to deciding on 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: The finest technique to get to the Florida Mall from Orlando is to take US-441 to Orange Blossom Trail S.
Best Tour from Orlando: Crayola Experience
Must-Do Activities: The Crayola Experience – extremely rated, this interactive and hands-on exhibit permits guests to discover the world of Crayola by means of numerous inventive actions and exhibitions. From coloring stations and video games to a digital actuality expertise, the Crayola Experience supplies a enjoyable and academic journey for all ages.
Where to Eat: Among the numerous eateries positioned throughout the mall, one in all my favourite locations to dine is Bucco di Beppo – an Italian restaurant recognized for its scrumptious and genuine delicacies. The menu at Bucco di Beppo is intensive, that includes a number of conventional Italian dishes that cater to all tastes and preferences. The parts are beneficiant and ideal for sharing with family and friends.

14. Enjoy the City of Tampa

An important day journey from Orlando is to go to the nice metropolis of Tampa. One of the highlights of visiting Tampa is exploring its vibrant downtown space. The metropolis’s downtown is house to a number of cultural and historic landmarks, such because the Tampa Theatre, a stunning film palace that dates again to 1926. With its distinctive structure and ornate inside, the Tampa Theatre is a must-visit for movie fanatics and historical past buffs alike.

If you’re on the lookout for some outside enjoyable, Tampa has loads to supply. The metropolis is surrounded by stunning seashores, together with Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach, each of that are simply a brief drive away. Whether you’re trying to loosen up on the white sandy shores or attempt 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 exhibits. 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: The finest technique to get to Tampa from Orlando is to take I-4 W.
Best Tour from Orlando: Guided City Tour in Deluxe Street Golf Cart
Must-Do Activities: Visit Busch Gardens and the bustling port of Tampa Bay. Known for its vibrant maritime exercise, the port presents a distinctive glimpse into town’s thriving commerce and commerce. Stroll alongside the waterfront promenade and witness huge cargo ships and cruise liners docked on the port.
Where to Eat: Ulele is widely known as among the best eating places in Tampa Bay. Located on the waterfront, this native-inspired eatery presents a distinctive eating expertise combining scrumptious delicacies and a gorgeous ambiance. One dish stands out as my all-time favourite: the oysters from the Gulf Coast.

15. Visit the Ocala National Forest

The Ocala National Forest presents nature lovers and outside fanatics a distinctive day journey to recollect. Spanning over 600 sq. miles, this huge forest is house to various ecosystems, wildlife, and leisure actions that may go away guests awe-struck.

Ocala National Forest boasts an intensive community of nature trails, providing alternatives for hikers of all ability ranges to immerse themselves in the fantastic thing about the encompassing wilderness. The Juniper Springs Recreation Area is a widespread place to begin, offering entry to a number of trails, together with the Juniper Springs Trail and the Yearling Trail. These trails wind by means of lush forests, crystal-clear springs, and historic 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 National Forest
Getting There:  The finest technique to get to the Ocala National Forest from Orlando is to take FL-19 N.
Must-Do Activities: Over 600 miles of mountain climbing trails, water sports activities, exploring nature. The Ocala National Forest presents a multitude of must-do actions for guests to get pleasure from.
Where to Eat: The finest place to eat close to the Ocala National Forest is Gator Joe’s Beach Bar and Grill. This family-friendly institution presents a incredible eating expertise that may fulfill everybody. Whether you’re on the lookout for a scrumptious meal or a enjoyable time, Gator Joe’s has all of it.

Best Day Trip Tours from Orlando

Orlando, Florida is understood for its world-class theme parks and points of interest. However, in the event you’re trying to discover past town limits and expertise the pure magnificence and cultural choices of the encompassing space, there are a number of glorious day journey excursions accessible. Whether you’re all in favour of wildlife encounters, historic websites, or scenic landscapes, these excursions supply one thing for all types of vacationers:

1. Kennedy Center Trip with Transport: This is a ten-hour tour and pick-up is obtainable at most inns in Orlando. Once on the Kennedy Space Center, a tour information will present you across the space and reply any questions you might need. Click right here to guide.

2. St. Augustine Day Trip with Tour Options: This tour from Orlando presents round-trip transportation from Orlando, museum entry, trolley passes, and free time to discover the attractive metropolis of St. Augustine. Click right here for extra info.

3. Revolution Off-Road Mucky Duck ATV Experience: This expertise lasts round one hour and also you’ll comply with your information alongside the tracks, by means of bushes, and even into the water. Click right here to search out out extra.

4. Clearwater Beach 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 gratifying, round-trip experience to the seashore. Click right here to guide.

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

Day Trips Around Orlando: FAQs

Here are some solutions to continuously requested questions on the very best day journeys from Orlando, Florida:

In Conclusion

I hope this listing of the 15 finest day journeys from Orlando has been useful. Whether you’re a native or a customer, Orlando presents a multitude of choices for thrilling day journeys. From gorgeous pure wonders to historic landmarks and thrilling theme parks, there’s one thing for everybody to get pleasure from.

Orlando will not be solely a incredible vacation spot in itself but additionally serves as a gateway to quite a few unimaginable day journeys. Whether you’re all in favour of historical past, nature, journey, or just looking for a change of surroundings, any one in all these 15 day journeys talked about would make a welcome addition to your itinerary.