Orlando is well known for its theme parks, but there’s much more to discover beyond Disney. Within a one-tank road trip from the city, you’ll find places offering a mix of history, natural beauty, and small-town charm.
These five destinations are all within 300 miles (round-trip) of Orlando, FL, making them ideal for quick getaways. Spend less time at the pump and more time enjoying the road.
If you’re in an electric vehicle, we’ve noted whether you can expect to find chargers along each route as well.
1. Mount Dora, Florida
Total mileage: 60 miles
Known as the “Festival City,” Mount Dora is a charming lakeside town with a well-preserved history and tree-lined streets. It’s also a well-known haven for art lovers and vintage enthusiasts. The town’s lively festivals, including the annual Mount Dora Arts Festival make it a happening place to be any time of year. It’s also an easy place to meander off the beaten path to enjoy a quieter pace of life.
Don’t miss: Visit Renninger’s Vintage Antique Center & Farmer’s Market for a treasure trove of vintage finds, oddities, and collectibles. Hop on a seaplane tour from Lake Dora for breathtaking views of the town and surrounding lakes.
Stay: Lakeside Inn, a historic inn dating back to 1883, is a 130 year old landmark that’s been restored to honor history while still offering modern amenities.
Charge: EV charging stations are available at several locations in Mount Dora, so you can top up after exploring town.
2. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Total mileage: 170 miles
Dive into one of Florida’s most magical attractions at Weeki Wachee Springs, home to real-life mermaids and crystal-clear spring water. The park’s “mermaids” have been performing underwater shows since the 40s that blend artistry with aquatic skill. Beyond the mermaids, Weeki Wachee is also a fantastic spot for kayaking, swimming, and tubing, all surrounded by the natural beauty of Florida’s springs.
Don’t miss: Catch a live mermaid show, where performers put on an underwater theatrical experience that’s both nostalgic and mesmerizing. Afterward, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the stunning spring-fed river, which is teeming with fish, turtles, and the occasional manatee.
Stay: Check out the cozy vacation rentals in nearby Spring Hill for extended state park stays. Alternatively, the Holiday Inn in Brooksville offers a more traditional experience that’s popular with travelers to the area.
Charge: Charging stations are available nearby in Brooksville for a quick top-up before the return trip.
3. St. Augustine, Florida
Total mileage: 210 miles round trip
Travel back in time with a visit to St. Augustine, the oldest city in the U.S. Known for its cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, and European charm, St. Augustine offers a diverse array of attractions. From ghost tours to pirate museums, this city has a quirky twist on history that’s as fascinating as it is fun.
Don’t miss: Visit the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum, where you’ll find real artifacts from pirate history, and take a spooky ghost tour to learn about the city’s haunted past. Check out the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fortress with stunning views of Matanzas Bay.
Stay: For a touch of old-world charm, book a night at one of St. Augustine’s historic bed-and-breakfasts, such as The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens.
Charge: EV charging stations are available in central St. Augustine, so you can recharge while you explore.
A spirited road trip to the most haunted destinations on Florida’s First Coast
4. Cedar Key, Florida
Total mileage: 270 miles
Tucked away on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Cedar Key is a quaint fishing village known for its artsy vibe, fresh seafood, and natural beauty. This laid-back island community offers a slice of “Old Florida” with its colorful wooden cottages, local art galleries, and quiet beaches. Packed with plenty to see and do, it still maintains a quiet vibe that makes it a welcome respite from Orlando’s hustle and bustle.
Don’t miss: Head to Cedar Key Museum State Park for a glimpse into the area’s history, then stop by Tony’s Seafood Restaurant for some award-winning clam chowder.
Try your hand at kayaking around the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge, where you can spot coastal birds and even dolphins.
Stay: Beach Front Motel Cedar Key is a great spot to stay to take your time soaking in the island’s laid-back atmosphere. It’s also a great place to find yourself on a secluded beach far from Orlando’s crowds.
Charge: EV charging stations are available in Gainesville, making it convenient to charge up on the way there or back.
5. Micanopy, Florida
Total mileage: 180 miles
Known as the oldest inland town in Florida, Micanopy is a small, hip village with Southern charm. Its historic architecture, impressive collection of antique shops, and quiet pace of life make this a worthy stop on a one-tank trip. Tucked away just south of Gainesville, Micanopy invites you to step into the past with its moss-draped oaks and old-timey storefronts. It’s a perfect day or weekend trip from Orlando when you want a slice of “Old Florida”.
Don’t miss: Discover the Micanopy Historical Society Museum, where you’ll find exhibits on the town’s intriguing past, including its roots in Seminole history. Then, wander down Cholokka Boulevard, where you’ll find antique shops filled with quirky finds, including old Florida memorabilia and vintage furniture. Zip up to Gainesville to snag a bite at the Metro Diner, known all over the region for its hearty breakfasts.
Stay: The Herlong Mansion Bed & Breakfast is a beautifully restored 19th-century home offering a back-in-time stay with all the amenities. With its lush gardens and charming decor, The Herlong is a great place to extend your one-tank trip from Orlando.
Charge: EV charging stations are available a short drive away in Gainesville.
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