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Day Trips & Excursions

Day Trips & Excursions

Florida, USA

Orlando Theme Parks

Approximately 1 hour drive west of the Space Coast. Orlando is home to some of the world’s most famous theme parks.

Transportation Options: Rental car provides direct access. Shuttles are available from some Space Coast tour operators. Check with your hotel or visitor centers.

What to do:

  • Walt Disney World Resort: Features Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and water parks.
  • Universal Orlando Resort: Includes Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure (with The Wizarding World of Harry Potter), and Volcano Bay water park.
  • SeaWorld Orlando: Marine animal park with shows and rides.
  • Other Attractions: ICON Park (with the Orlando Eye), Madame Tussauds, Ripley's Believe It or Not!, and numerous dinner shows.

Nearby Coastal Towns

Explore charming coastal towns, each with its unique character and attractions, making for pleasant day trips.

Daytona Beach

Approximately 1 hour drive north of the Space Coast.

What to do:

  • Motorsports: Famous for the Daytona International Speedway, home of the Daytona 500 NASCAR race.
  • Drivable Beach: One of the few Florida beaches where cars are permitted on designated sections.
  • Daytona Beach Pier: Similar to Cocoa Beach Pier, offering fishing, dining, and entertainment.

Vero Beach/Fort Pierce

Approximately 45-60 minutes south of the Space Coast.

What to do:

  • Quieter Beaches: These towns offer a quieter, less developed coastal experience.
  • Fishing: Excellent fishing opportunities, both inshore and offshore.
  • Nature: Explore environmental learning centers, botanical gardens, and local parks.

St. Augustine

Historic Sites:

  • Castillo de San Marcos: A 17th-century Spanish fortress.
  • St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum.
  • Historic Colonial Quarter.
  • Shopping and Dining in the historic district.

Unique Aspects:

  • Oldest City: Continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the U.S., founded in 1565.
  • Spanish Colonial Architecture: Wander through charming cobblestone streets.
  • Flagler College: Admire the stunning architecture of this former hotel.
  • Transportation: Rental car is recommended.

Time Commitments for Coastal Trips

  • Orlando Theme Park:Full day (12+ hours) per park
  • Daytona Beach:Half to full day
  • St. Augustine:Full day, overnight for deep exploration
  • Vero Beach/Fort Pierce:Half to full day
  • Mount Dora:Half to full day
  • Historic Downtown Sanford:Half day or evening
  • Blue Spring State Park:Half to full day
  • Wekiwa Springs State Park:Half to full day

Tip: Plan Ahead for Popular Parks

To maximize your time at theme parks, arrive at opening and consider purchasing tickets online in advance.

Natural Escapes

Florida is known for its natural springs and diverse landscapes beyond the immediate coast.

Blue Spring State Park

Approximately 1.5 hours northwest of the Space Coast. Famous for being a winter refuge for manatees from November to March.

Wekiwa Springs State Park

Approximately 1.5 hours northwest of the Space Coast. A beautiful natural spring that forms the headwaters of the Wekiwa River.

Lake Kissimmee State Park

Approximately 1.5 hours southwest of the Space Coast. Offers a glimpse into authentic Florida cowboy history and diverse ecosystems.

Activities at Blue Spring

Arrive early, especially during manatee season, as the park often reaches capacity.

Options:

  • Manatee Viewing: During cooler months, view manatees from observation decks.
  • Swimming, Snorkeling, Kayaking: Popular activities outside of manatee season.
  • Hiking: Trails are available for walking.

Activities at Wekiwa Springs

Popular on weekends; arrive early to ensure entry.

Options:

  • Swimming in the clear, cool spring waters.
  • Canoeing and kayaking on the Wekiwa River.
  • Hiking on extensive trail systems and picnicking.

Cultural Excursion Highlights

Historic Downtown Sanford:Craft breweries, diverse restaurants, art galleries.
Mount Dora:Quaint atmosphere, antique shops, festivals.
Sanford Time Required:Half day or an evening.
Mount Dora Time Required:Half to full day.
Sanford Location:1 hour northwest of Space Coast.
Mount Dora Location:1.5 hours northwest of Space Coast.

Explore Authentic Florida

  • Lake Kissimmee State Park: Offers a glimpse into authentic Florida cowboy history and diverse ecosystems.
  • Activities: Hiking, birdwatching, exploring recreated 1876 cow camp (open on weekends/holidays), and fishing.
  • Time Required: Half to full day.
  • A quieter, less touristy natural setting.
  • Suitable for those interested in Florida's natural heritage.

Multi-Day Extensions

For longer trips, combine the Space Coast with other Florida destinations.

Orlando & Central Florida

Extend your trip with 4-7 days in Orlando after the Space Coast. This allows for in-depth exploration of theme parks and other Orlando attractions.

Trip Details:

  • Total Trip: 5-7 days.
  • Transportation: Easy drive between Space Coast and Orlando.
  • Route: Spend 2-3 days on Space Coast, then transfer to Orlando hotel.

South Florida Coastal Drive

Head south along the scenic A1A highway to explore Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami. Each city offers distinct beach vibes, urban centers, dining, and cultural experiences.

Trip Details:

  • Extension: 3-5 days.
  • Transportation: Scenic drive south along the coast or via I-95.
  • Also: Brightline high-speed rail connects MCO to South Florida cities.

North Florida & Springs

Travel north to St. Augustine for a dive into its rich history, then explore more of Florida's natural springs like Ichetucknee Springs State Park.

Trip Details:

  • Extension: 2-3 days.
  • Transportation: Drive north on I-95 from Space Coast to St. Augustine, then head west to the springs.
  • Springs: Offer swimming, snorkeling, and cave diving opportunities.

Overall Benefits

These extensions allow you to experience the diverse offerings of Florida, complementing your Space Coast adventure with a broader perspective of the state's attractions.

Experience More:

  • Diverse beaches.
  • Art scenes and nightlife.
  • Natural beauty.

Planning Your Multi-Day Trip

Each region offers distinct experiences.

Seasonal Considerations

Summer is warm, while winter offers comfortable weather and manatee viewing.

Booking Ahead

For popular attractions and theme parks, book tickets and accommodations in advance.

Transportation

A rental car offers the most flexibility for exploring diverse areas of Florida.

Tip: Combine and Conquer

Consider combining the Space Coast with Orlando for a well-rounded Florida vacation blending high-tech excitement with world-class entertainment.
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