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15 Best Places to Visit in Central Florida (No Theme Park Ticket Required!)
21
items If you're visiting Central Florida, here are some of the best places to visit that won't cost you a fortune!
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Sections
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15 Places Worth Visiting in Central Florida Besides the Theme Parks
The Springs & Florida State Parks
Fun Places to Visit & Things to Do
Attractions That Aren't the Big Theme Parks
Must-Have Items for Your Central Florida Trip
Final Thoughts
15 Places Worth Visiting in Central Florida Besides the Theme Parks
Discover 15 amazing places to visit in Central Florida that aren't theme parks! From natural springs to charming small towns, this guide highlights must-see spots perfect for locals and travelers looking for fun, affordable adventures.
Just a fun idea - matching shirts for men, women, and children to wear on your trip!
Florida Vacation 2025 Family Trip T-Shirt
The Springs & Florida State Parks
Enjoy nature's beauty at one of Florida's natural springs!
Crystal-clear spring water, shaded trails, and peaceful canoe rides make Wekiwa Springs State Park a perfect getaway just minutes from Orlando. It’s great for swimming, picnicking, hiking, and spotting wildlife. ➡️ Tip: Be sure to make your reservati...
Wekiwa Springs State Park | Florida State Parks
Blue Springs State Park is a nature lover’s dream! In the winter months, especially December through February, it's home to hundreds of manatees. In the warmer months, it’s ideal for swimming, tubing, and snorkeling in the spring run. ➡️ Arrive early...
Blue Spring State Park - Florida State Parks
Make your own pancakes at the Old Spanish Sugar Mill Restaurant, then swim or paddle in the spring-fed waters at De Leon Springs State Park. This park combines fun, food, and Florida history. ➡️ Come hungry—the pancake experience is worth the wait! A...
De Leon Springs State Park - Florida State Parks
Crystal-clear and surrounded by lush greenery, Alexander Springs is one of the most beautiful and accessible natural springs in Florida. It’s part of the vast Ocala National Forest, which boasts over 600 lakes, rivers, and springs — perfect for hikin...
National Forests in Florida - Alexander Springs Recreation Area
Fun Places to Visit & Things to Do
There's so much to see in Florida besides the theme parks! One of my family's best vacations was spent exploring lesser-known areas. The crowds were low, and we had a blast!
With a bike-friendly trail, boutique shops, and a lively weekend farmers market, Winter Garden feels like a Hallmark movie town come to life. ➡️ Grab brunch at a local café, then stroll along the West Orange Trail.
Downtown Winter Garden - Home
Charming, artsy, and full of small-town charm, Mount Dora is known for its antique shops, local festivals, and lakefront views. It’s the kind of place where you slow down and enjoy every moment. Enjoy shopping and dining in this fun place to visit. ➡...
Mount Dora, FL - Official Website | Official Website
While technically northeast Florida, it's still a common Central Florida day trip. As the nation’s oldest city, St. Augustine is full of history, cobblestone streets, and coastal charm. ➡️ Walk the Castillo de San Marcos, then grab ice cream on St. G...
St. Augustine, Florida
Want a relaxing break in the middle of the city? Lake Eola Park is perfect for swan boat rides, people-watching, and enjoying live events at the amphitheater. ➡️ Visit on a Sunday for the farmers market and local food trucks.
Lake Eola Park - City of Orlando
Want to swim with manatees? Crystal River is one of the only places in the U.S. where you can legally do it. Even if you don’t get in the water, the area is peaceful and beautiful. In the summertime, scalloping tours are very popular. ➡️ Book tours i...
Official Guide to Crystal River and Citrus County, Florida
Climb Florida’s tallest lighthouse for unbeatable views of the Atlantic coast! The grounds also feature a museum, historic buildings, and exhibits on maritime history. It’s a great mix of education, adventure, and scenic beauty for all ages.
Ponce Inlet Lighthouse
Experience the charm of Winter Park through a guided boat tour across its chain of lakes. The tour offers views of opulent homes, lush landscapes, and historic landmarks.
Scenic Boat Tour | Winter Park Florida | Boat Ride | Chain of Lakes
Attractions That Aren't the Big Theme Parks
Besides the big theme parks, Central Florida has many less crowded and lesser-known attractions that you might enjoy.
Bok Tower Gardens is a peaceful garden sanctuary with panoramic views, beautiful landscaping, and the sounds of the famous carillon tower. It’s perfect for photography, meditation, or a romantic afternoon. ➡️ Check out the Pinewood Estate during the ...
Bok Tower Gardens - Lake Wales, Florida
Yes, it’s technically an attraction! But it’s far more affordable and less crowded than the big-name parks. Gatorland offers a fun, educational look at Florida wildlife, and the zip line over the gator pond is surprisingly thrilling. ➡️ Bring kids wh...
Gatorland
Ever wanted to experience “Old Florida” cowboy-style? This dude ranch offers horseback riding, a Saturday night rodeo, glamping tents, and even swamp buggy rides. It's a totally unique Florida experience that doesn’t involve sand or roller coasters.
Florida Dude Ranch & Glamping Resort | Westgate River Ranch ...
For motorsport enthusiasts, this historic racetrack in Sebring hosts the renowned 12 Hours of Sebring endurance race. Even outside of events, the track's history and facilities are worth exploring.
Sebring Raceway: Home
Must-Have Items for Your Central Florida Trip
Here are a few ideas for things to get before your trip. Depending on the temperature outside, I highly recommend the neck fan - it helps keep you much cooler!
If you’re planning to visit Florida’s State Parks and springs on your trip, here is the ultimate guide! Find out the best places to see wildlife, hike, snorkel, fish, and kayak.
Florida State Parks Adventure Book 2025
If you're interested in finding the hidden must-see spots that locals know about, here’s the book that shares where you’ll find them.
The Insider's Florida Bucket List Travel Guide
Keep cool in the Florida sun with this lightweight, portable neck fan. Make your trip so much more comfortable!
Hotsales Hands Free Bladeless Neck Fan
Get your Disney ears before you arrive at the park.
Adult Ear Hats & Headbands - Disney Store
Final Thoughts
Central Florida is full of surprises—you just have to know where to look! Whether you're craving nature, small-town charm, or unique experiences, this list proves that there is plenty to explore beyond the theme parks. Which one will you check out fi...
Get your kids involved in helping plan your trip! By having children help you plan, you'll find out what's the most important thing for them to experience while on vacation.
Birnbaum's 2025 Disney World for Kids Guide