Orlando is a very popular spot for people of all ages. But what if you want to get away from the hubbub of the mouse for a day? What is there to do? Below are six places that you can visit for the day when you are vacationing in Orlando.
Explore the sunshine state with our list of the best day trips from Orlando:

1. New Smyrna Beach (60 Minutes)

This is a favorite place to go for people who live in Orlando. About an hour from Orlando, it’s a fast getaway from the inland part of Florida to its gorgeous coast. Even though it’s been a popular destination with tourists for a long time, it still has a feel that’s untouched. Visitors are able to find many miles of soft, clean sand beaches. Here you can go swimming, boating and surfing. The community is also active. You can bike or run along the water. If you love wildlife, come in the summer or early fall to see the baby turtles hatch from the sand and go to the ocean.

2. Daytona Beach (60 Minutes)

Many people know about Daytona Beach because of the very famous Daytona 500. But this is also very popular for people who love Orlando, since it only takes about an hour to get there. There are a variety of beach activities that people can choose from, and there’s even a boardwalk where you can find lots of junk food choices, arcades to play in or places to buy clothing. It’s also possible to sign up for ride-alongs and driving experiences for an amazing experience if you love NASCAR.

3. St. Augustine (1 Hour 45 Minutes)

This is our country’s oldest city and a great place to go if you love history. This peaceful and quiet town is well-known for gorgeous Spanish architecture, but there are also beaches that you can visit, along with its stone fortress and wildlife sanctuary. There truly is something to satisfy everyone here. There are secret ghost tours and museums that you can visit. There are plenty of business owners, charming cafes and restaurants that you can visit here too. From Orlando, it’s less than two hours.

4. Mount Dora (40 Minutes)

A mere 40 minutes from Orlando is another historic town. Here you can visit Lake Dora, which is a breathtaking natural oasis. Another huge draw is the Renninger’s Antique Center & Farmer’s Flea Market. This si where you are going to find a lot of great things to purchase. You’ll find antiques, art, fruits and vegetables all in one place.

5. Sarasota ( 2 Hours)

This city, just more than two hours away from Orlando’s heart, is a cultural City. Here is where you can find the very well-known Ringling Museum of Art, where you can find many types of art, from modern to classical. There’s also a museum dedicated to classic cars and a wonderful art center, which has a lot of various exhibits to view. Near some of the most well-known and pristine beaches in Florida, like Lido Beach and Siesta Key, you’re also able to go through Sarasota to reach Anna Maria Island. This beach town is very quaint and is very vibrant with lots of vintage shops.

6. Naples (3 Hours)

This destination, is the farthest on the list, but worth the drive. Here is where you can find some of the best beaches in America and calm drive-able commutes. The Travel Channel designated Naples as having the best all-around beach in America, due to the diversity of things to do and see. With calming white sand and crystal waters all around, this area has been lauded on list after list of the best beaches to visit for relaxation, families, and fun. Let’s be honest – if you’re visiting Florida you’re definitely hitting the beach at some point, so you may as well get the best.

Final Thoughts

These are just four of the places that are near to Orlando that you can visit in a day or less. If you are looking for something new to do, visit one of these places and experience something new and fun!

Planning a Trip to Florida?

After seeing the Orlando theme parks, return to the beauty and comfort of a home from Naples Florida Vacation Homes. We have a wide selection of homes located all over the Naples area. Whether you’re hoping to squeeze in a few rounds of golf during your visit or you’d like to relax by a private pool, you’ll find the perfect home to fit your needs.
Check out our rentals and book today! We look forward to having you.