Discover natural springs, historic sites, and thrilling attractions just minutes from your stay
Deland Outdoors is perfectly positioned to be your basecamp for exploring the best of Central Florida's natural attractions. From crystal-clear springs where you can spot manatees to thrilling speedways and charming historic towns, there's something for everyone just minutes from your door.
Below are some of our guests' favorite destinations, all within easy driving distance of our property. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, these local gems are sure to make your stay memorable.
A designated manatee refuge, Blue Springs State Park offers crystal-clear, 72-degree waters year-round. During winter months (November-March), hundreds of manatees gather in the spring run, making it one of the best manatee viewing spots in Florida. Visitors can swim, snorkel, and tube in the refreshing waters during summer months, or enjoy hiking, wildlife watching, and picnicking year-round.
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Home to the famous Old Spanish Sugar Mill Restaurant where you can make your own pancakes right at your table, DeLeon Springs offers swimming in the year-round 72-degree spring, boat tours of the waterways, and hiking trails through lush Florida landscapes. The park's rich history dates back 6,000 years to the indigenous peoples who first settled here, with historical exhibits throughout the grounds.
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Experience the thrill of "The World Center of Racing" at the iconic Daytona International Speedway. Take a tour of the recently renovated motorsports stadium, walk on the same track where racing legends have made history, and visit the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America. If you time your visit right, you might even catch one of the many racing events held throughout the year, including the famous Daytona 500.
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Voted America's Best Main Street, downtown DeLand offers a charming blend of historic architecture, unique shops, and excellent dining options. Home to Stetson University, Florida's oldest private college, the area has a vibrant cultural scene with museums, theaters, and regular events. Don't miss these local favorites:
Founded in 1883, Stetson University is Florida's oldest private college and features one of the most beautiful campuses in the South. The historic campus is known for its stunning Spanish-Mediterranean architecture, towering oak trees draped with Spanish moss, and lush landscaping. Visitors can enjoy self-guided walking tours, art exhibitions at the Hand Art Center, performances at the School of Music, and NCAA Division I sporting events.
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Universal's newest theme park features five immersive worlds including Super Nintendo World, Dark Universe, How to Train Your Dragon Isle, and more. This state-of-the-art park opened in 2025 and offers groundbreaking attractions, innovative dining experiences, and entertainment for all ages. Epic Universe joins Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure to create an unparalleled vacation destination just a short drive from DeLand.
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The most magical place on Earth is just an hour's drive from DeLand! Walt Disney World Resort features four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom), two water parks, Disney Springs shopping and dining district, and over 25 themed resort hotels. Whether you're looking for thrilling rides, world-class entertainment, or magical experiences for the whole family, Disney World offers something for everyone.
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Known as one of Florida's best beach towns, New Smyrna Beach offers 17 miles of white sandy beaches, excellent surfing conditions, and a charming downtown area. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and shell collecting. After a day at the beach, explore Canal Street and Flagler Avenue for unique shops, art galleries, and delicious seafood restaurants. Don't miss Smyrna Dunes Park, where you can bring your four-legged family members to the dog-friendly beach area.
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