10 Small Towns Near Orlando to Visit for a Day

Oct 10, 2024

10 Small Towns Near Orlando to Visit for a Day
By Westgate Resorts

The 10 Best Small Towns Near Orlando to Visit for a Day

When you think of Central Florida, what comes to mind? Beaches, theme parks, or maybe all of the exciting things to do in Orlando.

However, Orlando isn’t the only area you should visit. Florida’s historic towns have their own unique charm that sets them apart from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Small Towns to Visit Near Orlando

  1. Cocoa Beach

  2. Mount Dora

  3. St. Augustine

  4. Daytona Beach

  5. Lakes Wales

  6. Sanford

  7. Winter Park

  8. Clermont

  9. Tavares

  10. Winter Garden

The Best Day Trips Near Orlando

There are endless adventures to be had around Orlando, but even more thrills await you beyond the city’s limits. Alongside the exciting theme parks and attractions, Central Florida has so much more to offer both locals and visitors alike.

From scenic lakes to quaint towns, here are 10 small towns near Orlando to visit for a day!

1 | Cocoa Beach | When visiting the sunny state of Florida, it’s an unspoken rule that you must visit one of its illustrious beach towns. And what better place to spend the day than at Cocoa Beach?

Located an hour east of Orlando, Cocoa Beach is the go-to destination to get your feet wet, build sandcastles, and take surfing lessons. In fact, Cocoa Beach houses the largest Ron Jon Surf Shop in the world!

While you’re there, be sure to check out the renovated Cocoa Beach Pier, home to some of the best local restaurants, shops, and amazing views of the water.

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2 | Mount Dora | If you’re looking to get away from the bustle of the city, you’ll love the peaceful atmosphere of this coastal town.

Mount Dora is known as one of the most charming places to visit in Central Florida, and for good reason.

This quaint town is located on the shores of Lake Dora, where you can enjoy a scenic boat ride or rent a kayak and enjoy the breezes while on the water.

3 | St. Augustine | Located two hours away from Orlando lies St. Augustine, a coastal town that has some of the best things to do in Florida.

Steeped in history, it’s the oldest inhabited European settlement in the U.S. and full of historical landmarks that are just waiting for you to explore.

Visit the 17th-century Fort of Castillo de San Marcos then head over to the St. Augustine Distillery to taste its award-winning bourbon.

St. Augustine gives you all the charm and ambiance of a European town without a long flight!

4 | Daytona Beach | If you’re in the mood for shark tooth beaches, then you’re going to love Daytona Beach!

Known worldwide for its 23 miles of sandy shores, Daytona Beach offers you a unique experience that separates it from other beach towns. It’s home to the Daytona International Speedway, where you can tour the track or watch a race unfold.

You can also stroll down Daytona’s famous boardwalk, which is filled with shops, arcades, and waterfront dining.

5 | Lakes Wales | Some of the best free things to do in Orlando include exploring Florida’s natural wonders! Lakes Wales is a charming town that is home to lush gardens and serene nature trails waiting for you to stroll through.

If you have an interest in history, then you’re going to love visiting the local art galleries and antique shops that line the streets.

And for some epic Western fun, stop by Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo for horseback riding, airboat rides, archery, and more! You can also visit on a Saturday night to see a real-life cowboy rodeo!

6 | Sanford | Sanford is located on the shores of Lake Monroe and combines history with thrilling adventures! This town’s brick-lined streets contain exotic murals, antique shops, and amazing eateries.

For those who are fans of craft beer, you’ll be pleased to know that Sanford is home to several microbreweries such as Wop’s Hops Brewing and Deviant Wolfe.

Sanford is also a great place for spending quality time with your family with a visit to the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens.

Pro Tip: Looking for a break from theme parks? Historic Downtown Sanford is less than an hour from Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa!

7 | Winter Park | Winter Park is the perfect place to visit if you don’t want to deal with long commutes. Located just 20 minutes from Orlando, step into an eclectic mix of art, culture, and natural beauty.

As you stroll down Park Avenue, you’ll have your pick of various boutiques, cafes, and art galleries.

Enjoy the serene calm of Central Park and then explore the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art.

Pro Tip: Get the best of both worlds when you stay at Westgate Palace Resort! Located on International Drive and less than 30 minutes from Winter Park, visitors have easy access to famous attractions and can also experience Central Florida like a local.

8 | Clermont | Known for its picturesque lakes and scenic landscapes, Clermont is a great place for people who love participating in outdoor activities.

Lake Louisa State Park is a great place to hike, kayak, and view the local wildlife.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite exploring the great outdoors, head downtown and grab a bite at one of the local cafes or restaurants.

Clermont is the perfect destination for people looking for a blend of history, nature, and adventure.

Pro Tip: Westgate Town Center Resort is in the heart of it all. Whether you spend the day riding roller coasters or exploring the great outdoors, you won’t be far from cozy accommodations when you’re ready to relax at the end of your adventure.

9 | Tavares | Similar to Mount Dora, Tavares is a town located on the shores of Lake Dora. This place is more famously known as “Seaplane City” for the fact that you can soar above the countryside.

Although smaller than the other locations, Tavares’ downtown district is just as lively. You’ll have your pick of one of the various waterfront restaurants and enjoy a nice meal as you watch the planes soar overhead.

10 | Winter Garden | Winter Garden is another town that’s only 20 minutes away from popular Orlando resorts and is reputed to have the most charming downtown district in Florida.

Whether you want to go shopping, enjoy the local cuisine, or bike along the trail, Winter Garden has something for everyone!

Once you’re done hiking through the West Orange Trail, explore Plant Street Market for a sweet treat, and enjoy a nice drink at the Crooked Can Brewery.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Small Towns Near Orlando

For a fun day out with the whole family, try Winter Park, Mount Dora, and Tavares. Winter Park offers beautiful parks, scenic boat tours, and museums with kid-friendly exhibits, while Mount Dora is famous for its quaint shops and lakefront parks perfect for picnics. Tavares, known as the “Seaplane City,” offers unique seaplane rides that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

Yes, several nearby towns are affordable and offer free or low-cost activities. For instance, Winter Garden has a charming historic downtown and weekly farmers’ market, while Mount Dora’s parks and scenic lake views are free to explore. Sanford also offers a picturesque Riverwalk along Lake Monroe that is perfect for a budget-friendly day out.

Each town offers something special! For a unique experience, visit Tavares to see seaplanes taking off and landing on Lake Dora. In Clermont, you can climb the Citrus Tower for panoramic views of the area. Cocoa Beach provides beachside relaxation with local surf shops, while St. Augustine, the oldest city in the U.S., has historical sites like the Castillo de San Marcos.

Winter Park, Winter Garden, and Sanford are all within a 30-minute drive from Orlando, making them convenient for quick day trips. For those willing to venture a bit farther, Mount Dora and Clermont are around 40-50 minutes away, offering an easy escape from the city.

Many of these towns welcome pets! Winter Park, for instance, has several dog-friendly parks and outdoor restaurants. Mount Dora is known for its pet-friendly downtown, where many shops and cafes welcome pets on leashes. Winter Garden and Sanford also have pet-friendly parks and cafes, so your furry friend can join in on the adventure.

Clermont and Lake Wales are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Clermont offers access to the beautiful Lake Minneola and numerous hiking trails, while Lake Wales is home to Bok Tower Gardens, where you can enjoy breathtaking landscapes and outdoor art. Tavares, with its seaplane rides, is also a great choice for those looking to add a little adventure to their day.

St. Augustine is renowned for its rich history and is the oldest city in the U.S., making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts. You can explore centuries-old architecture, the iconic Castillo de San Marcos, and the charming historic district. Sanford and Mount Dora also have historic downtowns with charming architecture and local museums.

Absolutely! Mount Dora’s lakeside views and Winter Park’s beautiful parks, like the Kraft Azalea Garden, are perfect for photos. The historic downtown in Winter Garden is also incredibly picturesque, with colorful murals and quaint storefronts. In Lake Wales, Bok Tower Gardens offers stunning scenery that makes for memorable photos.

Yes, many of these small towns host annual events! Mount Dora is famous for its arts and crafts festival, and Winter Park hosts a popular sidewalk art festival each spring. Sanford’s Alive After 5 is a monthly street party with food and live music, and Winter Garden has a vibrant farmers’ market every Saturday.

Winter Park is a food lover’s paradise, with a variety of eateries along Park Avenue, from gourmet dining to casual cafes. Sanford’s historic district also has fantastic dining options, including breweries and waterfront restaurants. In Mount Dora, you can enjoy a mix of local coffee shops, seafood restaurants, and bakeries.

Unforgettable Adventures Just a Short Drive Away

Want to dive deep into Florida’s history? Or maybe you want to simply spend the day relaxing on the beach. From the sun-drenched sands of Cocoa Beach to the rich history of St. Augustine, these 10 small towns near Orlando are a great way to explore Florida’s natural beauty.

Get more travel tips and sightseeing guides on our Westgate Resorts Travel Blog!


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* Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.

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