Orlando is basically the theme park capital of the universe. Whether you're a princess in waiting or wizard in training, Orlando has amazing sites that attract people from countries around the world.
At the same time, who doesn't love a good road trip? Maybe you feel like escaping all the tourists. Maybe you want to see everything else Florida has to offer. Or maybe you just want to feel the wind in your hair as you drive towards adventure.
All the cool sites on the list make perfect spontaneous day trips. There are places to see if you are feeling active and places to see if you just want to drink delicious wine and spill tea with your friends.
@sara_tomtomWalk the boardwalk at Barley Barber Swamp
@wanderlustchloeTime from Orlando: Just over 2 hours
Florida is known for its swamps. But did you know how pretty a swamp can be? Walk the mile-long boardwalk to see the second oldest Cyprus tree in America. Yup, they have a thousand-year-old tree.
Try every wine at Bunker Hill Winery
@tytyytyyylerTime from Orlando: 2 hours
Channel your inner connoisseur and visit the Bunker Hill Vineyard & Winery. Their unique approach to winemaking means they have some really cool and different wines. Convince your friends you're an amateur sommelier by talking about how thick their grape skins are and how they use the skins in the making of the wine. All that means something to someone who knows more than me.
See a store with more Harry Potter merch than you can shake a wand at
@maddragonstudioTime from Orlando: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Warning: no muggles allowed at this amazing shop sure to satisfy all your wizarding needs. If you've already bought everything for sale at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, bring your knuts and sickles to Mad Dragon Studio.
Careful, or your credit card will be liviosing out of your purse to protect itself.
Swing from the trees
@treehoppersTime from Orlando: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Act like a kid at TreeHoopers Aerial Adventure Park. I mean, who doesn't want to zipline?
Conquer your fears at Skydive City
@skydivecityTime from Orlando: 1 hour and 30 minutes
It takes a lot of ovaries to do this one, but if you're feeling fearless, drive out to Zephyrhills to SkyDive City for what's gotta be the most spectacular view of the Sunshine State.
Race the courses at Andretti Thrill Park
@claucicirelloTime from Orlando: 1 hour and 30 minutes
The park has multiple courses so you're sure to never get bored. Racing through the F-1 speed course will leave you wanting to throw a red shell.
Located in Melbourne, the park also has a climbing wall, rides, a batting cage, and an arcade.
Descend into the Devil's Den
@nicoleleanne_Time from Orlando: 2 hours
The caves of the Devil's Den are something everyone should see for themselves. This is hands down one of Florida's must-see places.
Swim with the manatees
@thejengjoseTime from Orlando: 1 hour and 40 minutes
The Plantation has tours so you can actually swim with these adorable, gentle animals. You know what else they call manatees? Sea cows. How adorable is that?
Try the craft beer at Zephyrhills
@thelindseyfishTime from Orlando: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Who says Florida doesn't have great craft beer? Check out the selection of local beers at the Zephyrhills Brewing Company. And then take a bunch home.
Scalloping in Crystal River
@plantationoncrystalriverembedded via
Time from Orlando: 2 hours
Crystal River has great fishing (where in Florida doesn't?) but what really sets this beautiful area apart is the scalloping. Along with just a few other locations, this is one of the best places in all of Florida to catch those yummy little creatures. Don't forget to wrap mine in bacon.
Do everything at Okeechobeefest
@roochuteTime from Orlando: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Ok, so maybe this one is a little less spontaneous. While Coachella might get all the attention, The Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival is the best place to see festival and boho fashion in all of Florida. The festival also gets the biggest names like Kendrick Lamar, Usher, Mumford & Sons, and The Lumineers. Held every March.
Experience the impossible-to-describe Sea Hagg
@mimitoriasTime from Orlando: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Just past Bradenton lies the strange wonder that is the Sea Hagg. Part store, part curiosities, there is plenty to gaze at here. Everything in this one-of-a-kind store has a nautical theme. Every Floridian needs to come here at least once.
Go treasure hunting for crystals
@elmerspawTime from Orlando: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Look for real crystals at the Fort Drum Crystal Mine. If you sing Celine Dion loud enough, maybe you'll find the Heart of the Ocean.
Make your own pancakes...in a restaurant
@megz_squaredTime from Orlando: 1 hour
At the Old Spanish Sugar Mill all of the tables are equipped with their own griddles to makes your own pancakes. Did I mention it was all you can eat make your own pancakes?
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