7 Florida Day Trips That Are Even Cooler During The Winter
By Marisa Roman|Published December 21, 2022
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Marisa Roman
Author
A New Jersey native with over 15 years of writing experience, Marisa has studied at both New York University and Florida International University. She has lived all over the country, including a decade stint in South Florida. Marisa is well-versed in exploration as she travels a good majority of the year in her self-converted Sprinter van. Her articles have been featured in various notable publications over the years, she has a published collection of short stories, and three completed screenplays under her belt.
Celebrating winter in Florida is quite different from doing so in other states across America. For starters, we aren’t as prone to snow storms and frigid weather. However, being in Florida for wintertime means more opportunities for warmer weather which is perfect for day trip activities! If you need some inspiration for travel, take a look at these Florida winter day trips that can really elevate your season.
Crystal Springs, Florida, comes to life during the wintertime because of the thousands of manatees that pack the waterways. In search of warmer water for the winter, these manatees find solace in the springs, which creates a beautiful scene. People come from all over during winter to see these manatees lazing about. You can even get a chance to swim with them!
Taking a day trip to Plant City, Florida, during winter is well worth the journey. As the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World, Plant City becomes the hub for strawberries from around December to February. Then, at the end of the winter season, the culmination of the harvest results in the magical family fest known as the Florida Strawberry Festival. You’ll want to mark your calendars for this one.
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3. Daytona Speedway, FL
Daytona International Speedway, 1801 W International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, USA
Every year, people from all over the world flock to Daytona Beach during the winter to enjoy one of the most exciting sporting events in America - the Daytona 500. Usually taking place during February, Daytona Beach has become the go-to place for racing enthusiasts or just families looking to camp out and enjoy the show.
Citra, Florida, is a small town with a unique claim to fame. Citra is the home of the pineapple orange, originally called the Hickory orange. The name of this orange came to be in 1883 because of the aroma that was similar to that of a pineapple. Today, visitors can trek to Citra and visit The Orange Shop to get all of their fruit needs filled. Stop by this roadside stand for a taste of the tropics.
What better way to shake off the winter blues than with a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park?! This beautiful park off Key West can only be visited by ferry boat or seaplane, making the day trip much more exciting. Plus, if you reserve a campsite in advance, you can easily spend an entire weekend visiting this tropical paradise.
A day trip to Mount Dora, Florida, is great during wintertime because there are so many fun things to do inside and outside. Known for its unique shops and festivals, you can enjoy the taste of small-town living during your stay. Enjoy visiting the Mount Dora History Museum, housed in a 1923 fire station, or head to the downtown area for shopping, dining, and getting to know the locals.
Wekiwa Springs in Seminole County is a day trip that is just waiting to happen. Not only can you swim in these crystal-clear springs, but you can also kayak, canoe, or paddle out. This park has emerald springs feeding from the Wekiwa River that keep the water at a cool 72 degrees year-round. Set up shop for the afternoon and enjoy a bevy of outdoor activities.
What do you think about these Florida winter day trips? Have you already tackled any of these on the list? Share with us your favorite parts about these adventures in the comments! Also, wintertime isn’t the only time to enjoy day trips in Florida. Take a look at 12 of the best Florida day trips, one for each month of the year.
While Florida isn’t the coldest state by any means, it’s always good to be prepared as you set out on your adventures. If you’re wondering what to pack for winter travel in Florida, we’ve got you covered!
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