Top 11 Day Trips From The Villages, Florida

1. Cape Canaveral (from USD 78.0)

1/5 day trips from the villages fl | cape canaveral

2/5 cape canaveral

3/5 cape canaveral

4/5 cape canaveral

5/5

Show all photos

Cape Canaveral, located on the east coast of Florida, is most commonly known to be the home of the Kennedy Space Center. Visitors can tour the facility and learn about the history of space exploration in the United States. The centre also offers a variety of interactive exhibits, IMAX movies, and thrilling simulated space rides.

In addition to the space centre, Cape Canaveral is home to some of the best beaches from The Villages. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, including Jetty Park and Cocoa Beach. Fishing charters, kayaking, and other water sports are also popular activities in the area. A visit to the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse is a must for history buffs. Built in 1868, the lighthouse is still in operation and offers guided tours.

Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral

Duration: 1 day

484 reviews

Oops, this activity is currently unavailable. Check out these alternative activities in the same location.

from USD

78.0

Book Now

2. Ocala National Forest

Ocala National Forest is a beautiful wilderness area located just a short drive from The Villages, making it an ideal day trip destination. Visitors can explore the diverse landscapes of the forest, including freshwater springs, rolling hills, and pristine lakes. For a unique experience, visitors can take a guided eco-tour of the forest, learning about the diverse plant and animal life that calls this area home.

One of the top activities in Ocala National Forest is hiking, with over 600 miles (965.61 kilometers) of trails to choose from. Visitors can also enjoy horseback riding, biking, and off-road vehicle tours.

Swimming in the crystal-clear freshwater springs is another popular activity, with Juniper Springs being one of the most popular. Visitors can also go kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding on the many lakes and rivers in the area.

Ocala National Forest

Website: Ocala National Forest

3. Orlando

Everyone is familiar with the city, Orlando. It is a vibrant, fun place which welcomes visitors from all over the world. Orlando is famed for its theme parks. One of its most popular attractions is the Walt Disney World. There are many more major attractions such as Universal Studios. But, Orlando has more things to offer other than just theme parks, you can visit their Safari or their Zoo and Botanical Gardens. You will surely have a list full of itineraries, have a blast and not get bored when dropping by.

4. Kissimmee

Kissimmee is located in the South of Orlando. Kissimmee is just a two-hour drive away from The Villages. It is a dream place as it is very close to the famed theme parks, such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. It will create experiences among loved ones and families that will last. There are plenty of things to do in Kissimmee. One should consider visiting Gatorland Park, which is a theme park and wildlife preserve for alligators.

5. Tampa

Spice up your sightseeing around The Villages by heading to Tampa, a city located along Florida’s Gulf Coast and known for its museums and other cultural sites. One must-visit place in Tampa is Ybor City, which is known for its vintage shops and boutiques. Furthermore, the place is filled with cafes and Cuban and Latin American eateries.

Tampa also offers nature sites. Why not visit the Hillsborough River State Park, which is one of the oldest state parks in the region and is located in northeast Tampa?

6. Jacksonville

Jacksonville is one of the most populated cities in Florida. It is almost a three-hour drive away from The Villages. The city is just located in the northeastern part of Florida and is just along the center bank of St. Johns River. It is a major business hub, but it also has a lot of lush greens, which allows one to unwind and relax. Additionally, visitors will be spoilt with choices as there are numerous shopping malls as well as a plethora of restaurants serving a range of cuisines. Why not include Jacksonville in your itinerary?

7. Fort Myers

Located at the southwest of Florida, Fort Myers is known for its natural and historical sites. There are numerous wildlife preserves and nature parks. Consider visiting the Manatee Park, where you get to visit a Manatee up close and rent a kayak. Furthermore, if you are a fan of the beach, you will surely be impressed with its sandy white beaches and blue waters when you visit Fort Myers.

8. Venice

Venice, also known as ‘shark tooth capital of the world’, is located along Florida’s Gulf Coast and is just almost a three-hour drive away from The Village. It is well-known for its Venice Beach and Casperan Beach. Also, there are many beach activities that you get to do with your friends and family, like swimming, fishing, kayaking, and so on. It is a perfect place for you and your loved ones to unwind and relax, and enjoy the sea view and breeze. Venice also offers a wide range of entertainment options, such as theatres, arts and culture, music events, and the list continues. You will surely not get tired of the array of activities that Venice has to offer.

9. Crystal River

Crystal River is situated in the western part of Florida and is just an hour drive away from The Villages. Come and visit the exotic and unique beauty of Crystal River. It is a perfect place for you to breathe in some fresh air, if you want to escape the busy city. Admire the sparkling blue waters and lush greens. Crystal River has an array of activities to offer to visitors like outdoor adventures and water activities. Crystal River is a hidden gem in Florida.

10. Daytona Beach

Situated along Florida’s Atlantic Coast, Daytona Beach is popular among locals and tourists. If you are a fan of motorsports, you might be familiar with the Daytona 500 NASCAR race, which has been open since 1959. Why not take a trip down to the Daytona International Speedway. Daytona has an extensive range of activities like several parks, festivals, shops and restaurants. It is a perfect place to visit for both adventurers and nature lovers.

11. St Augustine

St Augustine is one of the oldest cities in the United States and is known for its Spanish architecture colonial designs. St Augustine is located in the north-east of Florida. The city thrives in history and culture. St Augustine has a plethora of historic sites. Castillo de San Marcos is a famous landmark, which dates back from the 17th century and is currently a national monument in Florida. Another destination you can visit is the St Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum, which was built in the late 19th century.

A perfect day trip

Florida has so many things to offer, ranging from theme parks to scenic sites. It is no wonder Florida is a popular destination for locals and people all over the globe. Be sure to include these places in your The Villages itinerary when exploring Florida.

Should you wish to travel with your fur pals, be sure to check out the pet-friendly rentals in The Villages for a home that equally pampers you and your furry friend.