Day Trips from Orlando
← All Orlando day tripsDay Trips from Orlando: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Orlando, FL. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Orlando
Lake Apopka Loop Observation Tower
Ferndale, FL 34715
Just 30 min from Orlando, rated 5.0 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Trail 11 Scenic Overlook
Floral City, FL 34436
Just 1 hr 37 min from Orlando, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Sunset Overlook
FL 34747, USA
Just 27 min from Orlando, rated 5.0 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Scenic View - Tampa Bay
FL 34250, USA
Just 1 hr 42 min from Orlando, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Audubon Lookout
De Leon Springs, FL 32130
Just 57 min from Orlando, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic view of The Sunshine Skyway Bridge
Terra Ceia, FL 34250
Just 1 hr 42 min from Orlando, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Lake Apopka Loop Observation Tower
Minneola, FL 34715
Just 1 hr 5 min from Orlando, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive
Apopka, FL 32703
Just 26 min from Orlando, rated 4.8 stars by 2,290 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Joe's Overlook
North Beach, FL 32963
Just 1 hr 45 min from Orlando, rated 4.8 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Black Point Wildlife Drive
Florida, USA
Just 55 min from Orlando, rated 4.8 stars by 627 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Viewing Platform
FL 32179, USA
Just 1 hr 22 min from Orlando, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Ponce Inlet Preserve
FL 32127, USA
Just 1 hr 6 min from Orlando, rated 4.8 stars by 511 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Orlando
What are the best scenic drives near Orlando, FL?
The best scenic drives near Orlando include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Orlando?
Most scenic drives near Orlando range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Orlando?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Orlando, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Orlando?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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