Many couples can tell you that it’s easy to fall into a dating rut, going to the same places over and over. If you’re ready to break free from the routine, a day trip can be the perfect getaway. In this post, we’ll look at 5 romantic day trips from Orlando.
These charming destinations are just under 2 hours from the city. They offer plenty of natural and cultural activities for you and your partner to enjoy. So if you’re looking for a quick escape, consider one of these 5 day trips.
St. Augustine
St. Augustine is one of the most popular day trips from Orlando—and for good reason. As the oldest city in the U.S., it offers a perfect blend of history and old-school charm for couples.
Must-do activities:
- Wander through the Historic District. You’ll find plenty of shops, galleries, and historical landmarks to explore on St. Augustine’s cobblestone streets. Stroll down St. George Street, stop at a museum, or enjoy crepes from Mimi’s in their cozy courtyard. The beauty of the Historic District is that you can go at your own pace.
- Visit the Lightner Museum. Housed in a former Gilded Age hotel, the Lightner Museum boasts unique collections and stunning architecture. Be sure to grab lunch at the museum café on the bottom floor, which used to be the hotel’s swimming pool.
- Explore the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. According to legend, Ponce de Leon once searched for the Fountain of Youth here. The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park offers beautiful gardens, interesting exhibits, and the chance to drink from the alleged fountain itself.
- Visit Castillo de San Marcos. This historic fort provides great views of the city and Matanzas Bay. Spend an afternoon exploring Castillo de San Marcos and its grounds with your partner.
- Take a sunset cruise. Many companies in St. Augustine offer sunset cruises through Matanzas Bay. As you watch the sun dip below the horizon, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of landmarks such as the Castillo de San Marcos and the Bridge of Lions.
Before heading back to Orlando, wrap up your day with a romantic dinner at one of St. Augustine’s top restaurants. Collage Restaurant, Cordova, and La Nouvelle have rave reviews online for their food and romantic atmosphere. For scenic waterfront views, try The Reef.
Bok Tower Gardens
If you’re looking for romantic day trips from Orlando, it doesn’t get prettier than Bok Tower Gardens. Located about an hour outside Orlando in Lake Wales, this picturesque botanical garden is perfect for a relaxing day out.
Must-do activities:
- Stroll through the gardens. The property spans 250 acres of lush, tranquil gardens. Take your time and explore the peaceful surroundings.
- Look out the Window by the Pond. Spend some time in this cozy observatory that looks out on a serene pond. This spot provides a glimpse of some beautiful scenery in a quiet environment.
- Listen to Carillon concerts. The 205-foot Singing Tower houses a 60-bell Carillon. You can enjoy live concerts throughout the week. The music adds a magical touch to the park’s atmosphere.
- Tour El Retiro. Explore the Mediterranean-style mansion, decorated in a 1930s style. (Note: There’s an additional charge for visiting the mansion.)
- Hike the nature trails. The Preserve Trail and the Pine Ridge Trail each have unique features that make them worth exploring.
Bok Tower Gardens is ideal for couples who enjoy calm, nature-filled moments together. If you’re looking for more outdoor adventures, Lake Wales Ridge State Forest is just a short drive away.
Lakeland
Lakeland is one of the most underrated romantic day trips from Orlando. Just an hour away, this town possesses a lovely mix of natural beauty, artistic vibes, and historical charm.
Must-do activities:
- Visit Hollis Garden. Stroll hand-in-hand through this beautiful botanical garden in Lake Mirror Park. Although it’s small at 1.2 acres, the garden is an oasis of flowers, plants, and sculptures. Relax on a bench and enjoy the lakeside view.
- Explore the historic downtown. Lakeland’s downtown has locally owned shops, restaurants, and historic architecture. Stop by Pressed LKLD, a coffee shop/independent bookstore, and unwind on their outdoor patio.
- Browse the Lakeland Antique Mall. The Lakeland Antique Mall went viral for its vast collection of Disney memorabilia. But there’s much more to see at this massive antique mall. Even if you’re not into Disney, you’ll find plenty of unique finds here.
- Watch a drive-in movie. Lakeland is home to Silver Moon Drive-In, one of only four drive-in theaters in Florida. Snuggle up with your sweetheart and enjoy this old-school experience.
- Tour Florida Southern College. Florida Southern College has buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. It’s one of the prettiest campuses in the Southeast—great for an architecture tour or just walking around.
Lakeland’s relaxed vibe makes it the perfect spot for a romantic getaway. It’s one of the easiest but most memorable day trips from Orlando.
Mount Dora
Mount Dora is a charming, picturesque town about an hour from Orlando. With its small-town feel, lakeside views, and quaint shops, it offers a fun atmosphere for couples. It’s one of the best romantic day trips from Orlando if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway.
Must-do activities:
- Take a boat tour on Lake Dora. A boat tour lets you view the beauty of Lake Dora and its surrounding landscapes up close. The calming atmosphere adds a romantic feel to the experience.
- Explore the downtown area. Mount Dora’s historic downtown district is filled with charming boutiques, galleries, museums, and cafés. You can spend hours browsing together here.
- Visit the Mount Dora Lighthouse. This historic lighthouse in Grantham Point Park has beautiful lakeside views. It’s the perfect spot to catch a sunset. You can also enjoy a picnic here and take a stroll around the park.
- Attend a seasonal event. Mount Dora hosts many festivals and seasonal events throughout the year, from the Mount Dora Arts Festival to its downtown Christmas light displays. Many of these events are free to attend, making for a fun day out.
- Take a carriage ride. The Olde Mount Dora Carriage Company offers electric carriage rides through the city. Cuddle up with your significant other while enjoying the sights of the historic downtown. For an extra-special date, visit during the holidays to see the beautiful light displays.
For dining, check out Goblin Market in the historic district. This acclaimed restaurant has three cozy, book-lined dining rooms that resemble an old library. Or try Pisces Rising, where you can enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sun set over the water.
Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach is the ideal destination for couples who love the ocean. Just an hour from Orlando, its blend of natural beauty and tranquility makes it a top choice.
Must-do activities:
- Watch the sunrise on the beach. Start your day with a serene moment by the ocean. With its stunning sunrises and sunsets, Cocoa Beach is an incredible spot to enjoy Florida’s beauty.
- Walk along the Cocoa Beach Pier. This historic pier is perfect for a leisurely stroll, followed by lunch with an oceanfront view. You can even try fishing or take a surfing lesson while you’re there.
- Picnic at Lori Wilson Park. If you’d rather bring your own lunch, pack a picnic and head to Lori Wilson Park. With its beachside views, dunes, and abundant wildlife, it’s a lovely spot for a laid-back afternoon. Admission is free.
- Go kayaking through the Thousand Islands. You don’t need to be an experienced kayaker to enjoy a kayaking tour. Many companies in Cocoa Beach provide expert guides. Paddle through mangrove forests, spot dolphins and manatees, and watch the sun set over the water.
- Take a dolphin tour. The waters around Cocoa Beach are home to many dolphins, and you can book a boat tour to see them up close. It’s a relaxing way to connect while having fun spotting dolphins in the wild.
Whether you’re watching the sunrise, searching for dolphins, or just enjoying each other’s company, Cocoa Beach is one of the most romantic day trips from Orlando.
Conclusion: 5 Romantic Day Trips from Orlando
Maybe you’re looking to change up your dating routine, or you and your partner simply want to escape the city for a few hours. Either way, these romantic day trips from Orlando offer plenty of fun activities for couples.
Imagine cruising on a pristine lake, walking through a charming downtown, or relaxing in a tranquil garden with your significant other. The best part is that these activities are less than 2 hours away from Orlando. No matter which adventure you choose, you’re sure to make lasting memories together.