9 Awesome Day Trips from Orlando, Florida

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Not in the mood to check out amusement parks? Want a more laid back day or just something different? Here are some day trips you can take that are not too far away from Orlando and definitely worth checking out.

1. 801 E. Main, Lakeland (1 hour)

Home of The Poor Porker, Bearcat Big 6 and Calexico. This is one of our favorite hidden gems in Florida owned by the talented and creative Robyn Wilson. Her creation at 801 E. Main is absolutely amazing! Enjoy homemade beignets, Campfire Coffee (the best iced coffee), vintage shopping and live shows. 

Stunning and creative space at 801 E. Main in Lakeland

Stunning and creative space at 801 E. Main in Lakeland

2. Dinosaur World (1 hour)

If you or your kids love dinosaurs, you must stop by Dinosaur World. It's a clean, well-managed theme park with over 150 giant dinosaur sculptures. It's also pet-friendly, so you can take your dog on a nice little walk in the park's natural lush garden setting.

Pet-friendly Dinosaur World in Plant City, Florida

Pet-friendly Dinosaur World in Plant City, Florida

3. Tampa (1.5 hours)

Not a lot of people know that Tampa has a lot to offer. Go bike riding, eat at some of the best restaurants, explore a little bit of Cuban culture and take your furry friend to numerous pet-friendly locations.

Go bike riding at Curtis Hixon Park in Tampa

Go bike riding at Curtis Hixon Park in Tampa

4. Vinoy Park, St. Petersburg (1 hour, 45 minutes)

The historic Vinoy Hotel at Vinoy Park

The historic Vinoy Hotel at Vinoy Park

On the coast of St. Petersburg, Florida is the beautiful Vinoy Park with tall banyan trees, lively outdoor cafes, iconic museums and the historic Vinoy hotel overlooking Tampa Bay. 

5. Sarasota (2 hours)

Sarasota is the home of #1 beaches and the beautiful Ringling Museum. Enjoy the pristine beaches and the art sculptures all around the city. Shopping and eating at St. Armands Circle is also a delight.

The beautiful Siesta Key beach

The beautiful Siesta Key beach

6. Fort De Soto Park and Egmont Key (2 hours)

Fort De Soto Park is located in St. Petersburg, Florida and has three miles of gorgeous white sand beaches that are ranked among the best of Florida’s beaches. It was officially a subpost of Fort Dade, located on Egmont Key, where you can take a ferry to the island to see the remnants of the fort.

Egmont Key

Egmont Key

Charming town of Dunedin

Charming town of Dunedin

Dunedin is a charming little town with cute little shops and restaurants. You can also see some manatees on a good day. Make sure to catch the sunset at Honeymoon Island too, which is a lovely beach only 15 minutes away.

8. St. Augustine (2 hours)

Taking a stroll around historic St. Augustine with Kuma

Taking a stroll around historic St. Augustine with Kuma

Take a scenic boat tour, eat fresh empanadas, check out the Castillo de San Marcos fort and learn the history behind St. Augustine, the nation's oldest city.

9. Clearwater Beach (2 hours)

Soaking in the sun at Clearwater beach

Soaking in the sun at Clearwater beach

Clearwater Beach has lots of activities and is considered one of the best beaches in Florida. Make sure to stay until sundown as they are known for their gorgeous sunsets. 

Now get on the road and enjoy your day trip!

Orlando Day Trips www.thetravelpockets.com