Did you know that Orlando is the most visited vacation destination in the United States? While it is globally renowned for its theme parks and excellent shopping options, the region offers so much more than that. Central Florida is filled with hidden gems, featuring breathtaking landscapes, historic towns, and experiences often overlooked by many tourists—and even by locals. Here, you’ll find the largest concentration of freshwater springs in the world, the oldest city in the United States, and a gateway to incredible beaches and the Everglades, one of the most fascinating natural wonders in the country.
The best part? Many of these destinations can be explored on a day trip from Orlando—or, as Americans call it, a “one-tank road trip,” a journey that only uses one tank of gas.
In the article Best Cities near Orlando, we highlighted several nearby destinations. This time, we’re going further: showcasing places that are a bit farther away but still perfectly suitable for a day trip. Here are 10 must-see destinations ready to be explored on your next adventure from Orlando.
1 – Mount Dora
Distance: 60 kilometers (37 miles)
A road trip to Mount Dora leads you to a charming lakeside town known as the “Festival City.” With tree-lined streets and preserved historic charm, it’s a perfect retreat for those seeking tranquility and beauty. The town is particularly attractive to art lovers and vintage enthusiasts, hosting events like the annual Mount Dora Arts Festival. Strolling through the downtown area offers a relaxing experience, with cozy shops and restaurants.
Don’t miss the Renninger’s Vintage Antique Center & Farmer’s Market, where you can find true treasures in antiques and collectibles. For stunning views, a seaplane ride over Lake Dora provides a unique perspective of the surrounding scenery. Mount Dora is an excellent destination for those wanting to slow down and enjoy a calm, welcoming environment.
2 – Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Distance: 120 kilometers (75 miles)
Famous for its crystal-clear waters and unique “mermaid” performances, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park offers a magical experience. Since the 1940s, the aquatic shows have featured artistic performances that captivate visitors of all ages. Beyond the shows, the park is ideal for activities like kayaking, swimming, and tubing, surrounded by Florida’s lush spring-fed nature.
The spring-fed river is perfect for exploring by kayak or paddleboard, offering opportunities to spot fish, turtles, and even the occasional manatee. With its turquoise waters, the park is a great option for a fun and relaxing day with family or friends.
3 – St. Augustine: A Road Trip into History
Distance: 170 kilometers (105 miles)
St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States, is a true dive into history. Its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and European atmosphere make it a unique destination in Florida. The city combines historic charm with fascinating attractions like museums, ghost tours, and cultural events that draw visitors from everywhere.
Highlights include the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fortress offering spectacular views of Matanzas Bay. Another interesting spot is the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum, showcasing authentic artifacts tied to pirate history for a fun and educational experience.
4 – Cedar Key: A Road Trip to “Old Florida”
Distance: 200 kilometers (124 miles)
Cedar Key is a charming fishing village on Florida’s Gulf Coast, about 200 kilometers northwest of Orlando. Situated on an archipelago of small islands, it captivates visitors with its tranquility, natural beauty, and “Old Florida” atmosphere.
This is a hidden gem even many Florida locals are unaware of, and it’s even less known among tourists. Cedar Key offers a rustic charm deeply connected to its history and nature, with no large resorts or commercial attractions. It’s the kind of destination that appeals to travelers seeking an authentic experience, where time seems to stand still.
On the island, you’ll find no traffic jams, selfie-snapping tourists, or major hotel chains. Instead, it offers simple charm: quiet streets, small art galleries, charming local seafood restaurants, and activities like kayaking and birdwatching. Most establishments and accommodations are family-run, adding to the region’s welcoming and unique atmosphere.
Despite its small size, Cedar Key offers a variety of activities for visitors. You can explore the Cedar Key Museum State Park, which tells the local history, or venture into the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge, a natural haven perfect for spotting birds, manatees, and even dolphins. For water sports enthusiasts, kayaking and fishing are popular activities in the area.
5 – Micanopy
Distance: 150 kilometers (93 miles)
Known as the oldest inland town in Florida, Micanopy enchants visitors with its historic architecture and welcoming atmosphere. Its streets are filled with antique shops and boutiques, offering a unique experience perfect for a peaceful stroll.
The town is also home to the Micanopy Historical Society Museum, where you can learn more about the rich local history and the influence of the Seminole Native Americans. Just a few minutes away in Gainesville, you’ll find restaurants and other attractions, making the trip even more complete.
6 – Kennedy Space Center
Distance: 90 kilometers (56 miles)
This is a well-known road trip for tourists. The Kennedy Space Center is a must-visit for science and space exploration enthusiasts. Located on Florida’s Space Coast, the complex offers interactive exhibits, simulators, and the opportunity to get up close to historic rockets.
One of the main attractions is the Space Shuttle Atlantis, displayed in a dedicated pavilion. With educational activities and entertainment for all ages, the Kennedy Space Center is perfect for a day full of discoveries.
7 – Ocala and the Ocala National Forest
Distance: 115 kilometers (71 miles)
Ocala is known as the equestrian capital of Florida, offering stunning horse farms and outdoor activities. For adventurers, the Ocala National Forest is a paradise with its trails, natural springs, and camping areas.
The Silver Springs State Park, famous for its glass-bottom boat tours, provides a unique experience. Additionally, springs like Alexander Springs are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, completing the range of outdoor activities.
8 – Daytona Beach: A Road Trip to the Beach
Distance: 90 kilometers (56 miles)
Who says Orlando doesn’t have beaches?
Daytona Beach is often referred to as Orlando’s beach, located just an hour away by car and ideal for a quick road trip or day trip.
Daytona Beach combines beautiful beaches with a vibrant atmosphere. Known as one of the few places where you can drive on the sand, the city is also famous for the Daytona International Speedway, home to events like NASCAR races.
The Daytona Beach Boardwalk offers entertainment, restaurants, and incredible views. The Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse is a historic landmark that provides stunning panoramas of the coast.
Just like Daytona Beach, there are plenty of other beaches on Florida’s east and west coasts that are perfect for day trips from Orlando. Discover more in this article about the best beaches near Orlando.
9 – St. Petersburg
Distance: 175 kilometers (109 miles)
St. Petersburg is a vibrant city with a mix of beaches, culture, and art. The Salvador Dalí Museum is a highlight, featuring the largest collection of the artist’s works outside of Europe.
In addition, St. Pete Beach is one of the most popular destinations for relaxing by the sea. The Sunken Gardens, with their historic botanical gardens, round out the unique experience this city offers.
This list provides a rich variety of experiences, all accessible on a one-tank trip from Orlando, showcasing the diversity and beauty of Florida.
10 – Naples
Distance: 260 kilometers (162 miles)
Finally, we couldn’t leave out Naples!
Although it’s 260 kilometers from Orlando, I had to include Naples in this article because it is truly a special city. While a day trip might not be the most practical due to the distance, Naples still qualifies as a one-tank road trip and deserves attention from those seeking a sophisticated and unique destination in Florida. Staying at least one night is recommended, but a weekend trip would be ideal.
Located on the Gulf Coast, this city uniquely combines luxury, tranquility, and natural beauty, making it one of Florida’s gems.
Naples is famous for its pristine white-sand beaches and calm waters, perfect for relaxing and enjoying an unforgettable sunset at the iconic Naples Pier. Additionally, the city is considered the “Golf Capital of Florida,” with over 90 courses attracting players from around the world.
The sophistication of the region is also reflected in its cultural and culinary scenes. Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South are hotspots for refined boutiques and high-end restaurants offering everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine.
For those seeking a connection with nature, Naples is close to incredible places like the Everglades National Park and the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, perfect for spotting local wildlife, including rare birds, manatees, and alligators. Even though the distance makes a day trip more challenging, Naples is an ideal destination for a weekend getaway, offering unique experiences that justify every kilometer traveled. If you’re looking for a place that combines luxury, culture, and natural beauty, Naples won’t disappoint.
Let’s Go on a Florida Road Trip!
Central Florida is one of the most attractive regions for those looking to live in the United States. Orlando, along with the surrounding cities, offers the perfect balance of a welcoming residential environment with the convenience of being close to major tourist attractions and incredible destinations like the ones mentioned in this article. Florida becomes even more interesting when explored by car, following the road trip tips shared here.
It’s no surprise that Central Florida has become one of the top choices for northern Americans seeking quality of life and more affordable real estate. If you’re thinking about discovering the best cities near Orlando to live or invest in property, get in touch with us now via WhatsApp and let’s talk: +351 91 252 9601 (Carlos Barros).