24 Best Things To Do In St Cloud, Florida

things to do in saint cloud florida
Antonia
Antonia 
Updated
| 10 min read

St Cloud, Florida, is 26 miles (42km) from Orlando and its array of family resorts and hotels with water parks. But, if you’re worried about it being another tourist trap dominated by people who’ve come for the theme parks, you’ll be pleasantly surprised should you choose to visit. The city, located in Osceola County, is designed to be different from the many locations nearby that serve the interests of big-city tourists. In St Cloud, you’ll find more of a relaxed, small-town vibe that results from its initial origins as a retirement community for former servicemen and women. There’s still plenty for visitors to see and do here, and as you’ll see below, there’s something for everyone. Check out our review of the best things to do in St Cloud, Florida, and you can be sure of a fun holiday.

1. Tour the historic district with St Cloud Main Street

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Relay for Life today! Car Show, Vendors, Music!

Posted by St. Cloud Main Street on Sunday, February 27, 2022

If you’re up for some history, check out the tours, events, and other attractions organised by St Cloud Main Street. They are a revitalisation programme established in 1999 as a response to the ageing history and establishments surrounding the city at the time.

Since its founding, they have helped keep the material and cultural foundations of St Cloud alive with their historic walking tours across the city’s downtown district. Book this once-a-year day tour and explore its storied backgrounds, from humble beginnings as a war veterans’ community to its eventful ups and downs.

St. Cloud Main Street Walking Tours

Address: 903 Pennsylvania Ave., St. Cloud, FL 34769

Website: St. Cloud Main Street Walking Tours

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2. Learn the city's history at St Cloud Heritage Museum

St Cloud Heritage Museum
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ebyabe used under CC BY-SA 2.5

Another way to learn the history of St Cloud is by visiting the St Cloud Heritage Museum, located in the early 20th-century building that once housed the Veterans Memorial Library. It is owned and organised by the Woman’s Club of St Cloud, along with the city government, groups, and individuals who care about its past and future.

Here, you’ll find interesting facts and pictures about the city and its community, as well as artefacts collected throughout the years. Be amazed by the land’s vast history, even dating back pre-colonial times when it was still a Native American settlement. What’s more, it has no entrance fee, so if you’re looking for free things to do in St Cloud, this is a great pick.

St. Cloud Heritage Museum

Address: 1012 Massachusetts Avenue, St. Cloud, FL 34769

Website: St. Cloud Heritage Museum

Opening hours: Thu - Sat: 11am - 3pm (closed from Sun to Wed)

Price: Free

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3. Try out bass fishing on East Lake Toho

St Cloud FL East Lake Toho01
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ebyabe used under CC BY-SA 3.0

East Lake Tohopekaliga, known more familiarly by the locals as Lake Toho, is a huge freshwater body, with St Cloud just one of a few cities that have sprung up on its banks. As part of your trip, you’d be well-advised to take the chance to head out onto its waters in a boat and enjoy some of the best fishing available in the region. Famous for its largemouth bass, as well as channel catfish, the lake is serenely beautiful, especially at sunset.

East Lake Tohopekaliga

Price: Free (you may need to hire a boat and fishing gear)

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4. Tour the Reptile World Serpentarium

Reptile World Serpentarium sign 02
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Leonard J. DeFran... used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Whilst everyone wants to swim with the dolphins, and coo over cute cubs in the zoo, it’s a shame that reptiles don’t get a bit more love. You can take the opportunity to change that with a visit to Reptile World, where you can see plenty of snakes including cobras and black mamba (and witness a fascinating and daring venom-milking display).

The reptile world runs the gamut from the small - with adorable iguanas and bearded dragons - to the much larger, including alligators and crocodiles. It’s a true family trip, but one you certainly won’t regret making no matter how large or small your party.

Reptile World Serpentarium

Address: 5705 E Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy, St Cloud, FL 34771

Website: Reptile World Serpentarium

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon)

Price: 11.50 USD for adults, 9.50 USD for ages 6-17, 8.50 USD 5 and under

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5. Catch the big cats in action at Central Florida Animal Reserve

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

The regal lioness Cunsi would like to ask everyone to make Central Florida Animal Reserve part of your year end giving! ...

Posted by Central Florida Animal Reserve on Saturday, December 15, 2018

The magic of Central Florida Animal Reserve is that you get to see these majestic wild animals in their most relaxed environment. The phrase “big cats” is one that we use to talk about lions, tigers and other animals of that sort, but seeing them here, you’ll be amazed at just how familiar their behavior and demeanor is if you’ve got a pet or two yourself. All tours are guided - because these are, after all, still wild animals, as cute and well-behaved as they may be - and the non-profit reserve puts all proceeds into providing a contented life for the cats.

Central Florida Animal Reserve

Address: 500 Broussard Rd, St Cloud, FL 34773, USA

Website: Central Florida Animal Reserve

Opening hours: Sat & Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed from Mon - Fri)

Price: From 15 USD

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6. Enjoy a picnic at Lake Runnymede Conservation Area

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

The natural beauty of the area surrounding St Cloud is something that lends itself to an endless list of sightseeing opportunities. Lake Runnymede, an area of land bought by Osceola County as part of a conservation drive, is home to looming hardwood trees which provide an environment for native birds, squirrels and more creatures besides.

Come rest your head at this place under the daylight sky, especially if you’re struggling with what to do here in St Cloud. Late afternoon walks allow you to enjoy some of the most incredible vistas as the sun comes through the trees, and it’s a perfect spot for a picnic.

Lake Runnymede Conservation Area

Address: 4600 Rummel Rd, St Cloud, FL 34771

Website: Lake Runnymede Conservation Area

Opening hours: 7am - 8:30pm (daily)

Price: Free

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7. Enjoy the bucolic splendor of Deseret Ranches

Deseret Ranches 7-12-2009 4-04-20 PM
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Rcragun used under CC BY 3.0

Set among citrus groves in Central Florida, the sprawling attraction that is Deseret Ranches will meet with approval from young and old members of the party alike. This is a traditional ranch which combines conservation, history and modern agriculture to provide an invaluable service to people in the region, and also offers visitors the chance to see the Floridian countryside at its best. Along with the ranch animals, there’s the chance to see Jug Island, an expansive wetland attraction that is home to a range of wading birds.

Deseret Ranches

Address: 13754 Deseret Ln, St Cloud, FL 34773

Website: Deseret Ranches

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 4pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

Price: Free

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8. Pick perfect peaches at Premium Peach

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Premium Peach, LLC on Sunday, May 2, 2021

If you’re visiting at the end of Spring, then you owe it to yourself to give this place some of your time! One of the highlights of St Cloud’s varied collection of agri-tourism attractions, Premium Peach is - as the name may suggest - a peach farm where guests are allowed to pick their own peaches. The humid, sub-tropical climate of the region is perfect for growing this succulent fruit, and when the fruit is in season, you can be sure of a colourful, delightful experience.

Premium Peach

Address: 3920 Packard Ave, St Cloud, FL 34772

Website: Premium Peach

Opening hours: Not listed

Price: Free

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9. Soak up the sights (and smells) at Mick Farms

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Open today 12-4 Seven day countdown is on for our Upick strawberries! Strawberries are a winter crop and once it...

Posted by Mick Farms on Sunday, April 18, 2021

The joy of Mick Farms is that it truly is a feast for all the senses. Bright yellow sunflowers, juicy red strawberries and a plethora of freshly grown foods make this the perfect farm experience from a taste, sight and smell point of view. You can book some time for a photoshoot in the sunflower fields if you’re of an artistic frame of mind, or you can just enjoy the experience of a wander around the various fruit and veg patches, before taking some items home to enjoy as a meal or snack.

Mick Farms

Address: 4261 Canoe Creek Rd, St Cloud, FL 34772

Website: Mick Farms

Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)

Price: 5 USD

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10. Hike through Peghorn Nature Park

Barn
Source: Photo by Flickr user EMLpotography used under CC BY-SA 2.0

St Cloud is, in many ways, ahead of its time, having been one of the first towns in all of America to address the importance of an ecological heritage. Peghorn Nature Park is one example of this approach - it’s a collection of hiking trails and curated areas that have been developed by the city’s Parks and Recreation department. The park gets its name from the cattle native to the area a century ago, whose horns grew in the shape of wooden pegs.

Peghorn Nature Park

Address: 2101 Peghorn Way, St Cloud, FL 34769

Website: Peghorn Nature Park

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 8am - 6pm (closed on Sun)

Price: Free

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11. Practise your baseball swing at Da Field House

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Baseball is known as America’s “national pastime”, and Florida itself is home to a pair of Major League teams as well as being the destination for many other clubs in spring training.

Whilst you may not quite reach the levels of a Babe Ruth or Alex Rodriguez, a stint in the batting cages here at Da Field House will be a whole lot of fun nonetheless. Between one and four of your party can take to a cage to get in some hitting practise, or you can even hire the place for a birthday party. Either way, it’s time to Play Ball!

Da Field House

Address: 2012 Jaffa Dr suite 110, St Cloud, FL 34771

Website: Da Field House

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 5:30 - 9:30pm; Sat: 12pm - 5pm; (closed on Sun)

Price: 20 - 140 USD (varies depending on number of visitors and length of visit)

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12. Take a sunset stroll around Dan Tarrell Memorial Point

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

The joys of St Cloud’s coastal location will not be lost on any visitor to the area, and Dan Tarrell Memorial Point is one of the best destinations for anyone who enjoys walks on the beach and the occasional splash in the waters. With an excellent seafood restaurant by the name of Crabby Bill’s just off the shore and a Pavilion that can be rented for private events, this is one of the real high spots of any visit to St Cloud.

Dan Tarrell Memorial Point

Address: St Cloud, FL 34771,

Website: Dan Tarrell Memorial Point

Opening hours: 7am - 8:45pm (daily)

Price: 75 USD per hour to rent the pavilion

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13. Check out the historical images the Mural Trail

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

St Cloud is one of a number of cities statewide that engages in the tradition of marking moments in the city’s history with a mural. Indeed, the historical Mural Trail is a wider tour that takes in St Cloud among other nearby cities.

With one showcase mural welcoming visitors to the city - featuring a different historical scene painted into each letter of the city’s name - along with plenty of other scenes elsewhere painted using talented hands, you’ll get to take in a walking tour of the city, landmarked by colourful and pretty paintings at each turn.

St Cloud Historical Mural Trail

Address: St Cloud, FL 34771

Website: St Cloud Historical Mural Trail

Price: Free

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14. Shop and dine at St Cloud Square

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Recently overhauled for a Grand Reopening, St Cloud Square sits at the heart of the city and offers something for everyone, with Scrubs Boutique - initially a store stocking clothes for medical professionals, now offering an additional range of items that will appeal to everyone - among its most enduring attractions. There’s plenty of space to sit outdoors and enjoy something to eat, and face-painting attractions that will appeal to the younger members of your party. In addition, fine dining options include Bella Napoli, a top-class Italian restaurant.

St Cloud Square

Address: 4037 13th St, St Cloud, FL 34769

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15. Experience a unique animal experience at Amazing Animals Inc.

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Bush baby or baby yoda?? #bushbaby #babyyoda #amazinganimalsinc #animalpreserve #nonprofit #animals #primate #dosomethingamazing

Posted by Amazing Animals Inc. on Tuesday, May 11, 2021

Any zoo can show you lions and tigers, but as a conservation project, Amazing Animals Inc takes a different approach to the usual animal attractions, giving you a chance to see rare and often less-talked-about animals. There are more than a few big and wild cats here, that’s for sure, but you can also meet lemurs, sloths and skunks as well as a collection of birds that include owls, hawks and much more. Wherever you look, there is something new and different, and you’re sure to leave this impressive attraction with a new-found fondness for an animal you may never have thought about before.

Amazing Animals Inc

Address: 4235 Rambler Ave, St Cloud, FL 34772

Website: Amazing Animals Inc

Price: Tour price given on booking

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16. Take a nature walk at Lakefront Park

Kissimmee Lakefront Park-1
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Visitor7 used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Due to St Cloud’s location on Lake Kissimee, the opportunities for delightful and languid nature walks are plentiful, and nowhere can you get a better experience than on the sands of Lakefront Park. It’s the ideal place to come for a restful afternoon or evening, with picnic areas, a fishing pier and plenty of walking paths. There is even a nicely shaded playground area, offering the chance to get out of the beating sun for a rest.

Lakefront Park

Address: 201 Lakeview Dr, Kissimmee, FL 34741

Website: Lakefront Park

Opening hours: 7am - 10pm (daily)

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17. Enjoy traditional bites at The Catfish Place

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by THE CATFISH PLACE OF ST. CLOUD on Tuesday, March 30, 2021

Established in 1978, The Catfish Place is a St Cloud institution, serving - as the name suggests - freshly-fried catfish caught locally as well as a range of other delicacies including Gator Bites and, if you’re a little more conservative in your tastes, plenty of fried chicken and burger options. Traditional the restaurant may be, they are also allergy-aware, so if you have any food intolerances be sure to tell the waiter and you’ll be more than looked after.

The Catfish Place

Address: 2324 13th St, St Cloud, FL 34769

Website: The Catfish Place

Opening hours: 11am - 9pm (daily)

Price: 11 - 30 USD

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18. Stop by the GAR Monument in Veterans Park

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

St Cloud’s history is indivisible from the military servicemen for whom the town was founded, and this link to the community is seen at its best in a corner of Mount Peace cemetery where you will find the monument to the Great Army of the Republic, a civil war memorial which reinforces the link between St Cloud and its veterans. You’ll also find more up-to-date memorials to the men and women who have served their country with distinction, and it’s an opportunity for solemn reflection.

GAR Monument

Address: 1101 Massachusetts Avenue, St Cloud, FL 34769

Website: GAR Monument

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19. Get a taste of Southern classics at Jimmy Bear's BBQ

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

The Papa Bear!

Posted by Jimmy Bear's BBQ on Saturday, December 19, 2020

A long day of sightseeing or sunbathing is sure to leave you with an appetite, and there is no better way to satiate that than with some traditional Southern dining. In St Cloud, that means a trip to Jimmy Bear’s BBQ on St Cloud Square. Delicacies such as chicken-fried pork belly, Baby Back ribs and waffles await you at this classic diner, with mouthwatering sides that include Mac n’ Cheese and mashed potato with gravy.

Washed down with the beer, wine or soft drink of your choice, it’s a dining experience you’ll want to repeat. Dine-in options aside, Jimmy Bear’s BBQ also accept takeaway orders for visitors to dig in whilst staying in their cosy vacation rental in St Cloud.

Jimmy Bear's BBQ

Address: 4247 13th St, St Cloud, FL 34769

Website: Jimmy Bear’s BBQ

Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 11am - 9pm (closed on Mon & Tue)

Price: 11-30 USD

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20. Play a round or two at Royal St Cloud Golf Links

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Royal St Cloud Golf Links on Monday, May 3, 2021

If you’re a fan of the tricky “links” style of golf - one that separates the serious players from the hobbyists - then Royal St Cloud will come as a delight, with its British-style hard fairways putting one in mind of St Andrews in Scotland. Of course, the weather is different from that experienced in the UK, but if you’ve always wanted to test your approach shots on a tougher course, this is a perfect place to do so whilst also working on a tan.

Royal St Cloud Golf Links

Address: 5310 Michigan Ave, St. Cloud, FL 34772

Website: Royal St Cloud Golf Links

Opening hours: 7am - 7pm (daily)

Price: up to 130 USD

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21. Enjoy horseback riding at Jade Meadows Stables

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

For all the JMS family and lesson kids who love Rocky! Here's a current picture. He's in a wonderful home taking care of a fabulous little girl of his very own! We miss you Rocky but are elated for you!

Posted by Jade Meadows Stables on Thursday, March 25, 2021

If you’re looking for more fun things to do in St Cloud for you and your family, try these horseback riding tours provided by Jade Meadows Stables. Located close to Orlando, the place’s rolling grounds offer tourists the chance to have a horseback experience that suits their own abilities.

A pleasant scenic trail offers you the chance to see the beautiful countryside with the assistance of an experienced trainer, whilst more seasoned riders can enjoy pony parties and more challenging rides. All of this is on offer in peaceful, bucolic surroundings that ensure contented, placid horses and a relaxing experience for the rider.

Jade Meadows Stables

Address: 3955 Canoe Creek Rd, St Cloud, FL 34772

Website: Jade Meadows Stables

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 8pm; Sun: 9am - 5pm

Price: 67 USD for a trail ride

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22. Have a fun evening at Brews 'N' Blues

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Whose thinking about what’s for dinner ? We got you covered 5⃣ juicy chicken tenders with Your choice of Buffalo sauce on the side ?

Posted by BREWS 'N' BLUES on Wednesday, April 14, 2021

There’s no better way to enjoy a few drinks than in a classic bar with good music, fine food and a real, local bar experience. Brews n Blues, on Pennsylvania Avenue, offers this exact combination, with an expertly-curated soul food menu and a range of craft beers on tap. There’s even a trivia quiz night every Tuesday, offering you the chance to put your brain through a few rounds whilst drinking a few rounds. Frequent live music performances are part of the tradition too, and this bar is the ideal final stopping point after a day spent working up a thirst.

Brews 'N' Blues

Address: 3750, 1122 Pennsylvania Ave, St Cloud, FL 34769

Website: Brews ‘N’ Blues

Opening hours: Tues - Wed: 4pm - 10pm; Thu: 4pm - 11pm; Fri - Sat: 4pm - 11pm; Sun 11am - 5pm

Price: 11 - 30 USD

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23. Go on a trail buggy adventure at Forever Florida (from USD 20.0)

things to do in saint cloud florida | go on a trail buggy adventure at forever florida
Source: www.viator.com

Florida is known for its theme parks, but if you’re not that interested in ducks and mice then you might find you enjoy a different type of animal-based attraction; you’ll find it at Forever Florida. A wildlife conservation area spanning more than 4700 acres (1902 hectares), this attraction features no fewer than nine separate ecosystems. Sitting on an open-air coach, you can see species as diverse as white-tailed deer and the native Florida panther, as well as hundreds of different species of bird. The trip takes you through a real ranch, where you can see another species native to the region, the Florida Cracker horse.

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Trail Buggy Adventure at Forever Florida

24. Take a horseback ride on the country trails (from USD 50.0)

things to do in saint cloud florida | take a horseback ride on the country trails
Source: www.viator.com

Still at Forever Florida, as a joyous alternative or addition to the open buggy, you could take an adventurous horseback ride through the delightful scenery while spotting some of the wildlife that hang out close to the trails. A truly magical wilderness experience, this ride was previously taken by the Native Americans as far back as the 16th Century. This eco-friendly trip gives you the chance to see spectacular sights and spend 90 minutes with your trusty steed as you look out for birds, alligators and more besides.

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Horseback Adventure at Forever Florida

A hidden gem in Florida's panhandle

Buzzing the Swamp
Source: Photo by user Woody Hibbard used under CC BY 2.0

Your break in St Cloud will offer a range of wonderful attractions, whether it’s a nature walk, a round or two of golf, or just the chance to have something delicious to eat and drink. Whilst it may not have the fanfare of nearby Floridian cities, this is a place with everything you need to have a fantastic holiday and one you’ll want to keep coming back to.

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Frequently asked questions about the best things to do in St Cloud, Florida


  • What are some fun things to do in Saint Cloud with kids?

    Although they’re nothing like those attractions in nearby Orlando, there are still places and activities within St Cloud that you and your children can enjoy together. These include Jade Meadows Stables’ horseback riding tours, the playground at Lakefront Park, the vast garden and farmlands of Mick Farms, and Amazing Animals Inc.

  • What are some romantic activities suitable for couples visiting St Cloud?

    A picnic under the trees at Lake Runnymede Conservation Area, a countryside adventure at Deseret Ranches, a romantic stroll about Dan Tarrell Memorial Point, and The Catfish Place are some of the best activities and places in St Clouds for couple’s getaway.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Antonia Kelly is a freelance writer based in Leicester, UK and she enjoys European travel as well as road trips closer to home. Her favourite domestic destinations include Snowdonia and the Brecon...Read more

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