10 Fun Day Trips from Lakeland Florida

Taking day trips from Lakeland is easy. The expressway system is perfect for getting around the state quickly. In under two hours, you can visit some of Florida’s most coveted and fun destinations.

Our day trips from Lakeland don’t include the common locations like Disney World, Universal, Clearwater Beach and the most advertised places.

We give you options from around the state that can easily be accessed from Lakeland.

Our Must-Do 10 Day Trips from Lakeland Fl

Get ready for some adventure on these Lakeland day trips.

Bok Tower – This 100-foot tower is built on one of the highest points in Florida. The surrounding botanical garden and Pinewood estate are beautifully manicured. Just 50 minutes away from Lakeland off Rt. 60. One of Florida’s oldest attractions.

Punta Gorda – If you like watersports, shopping and waterfront dining, you will love this quaint city under 2 hours south of Tampa just off I-75 or from Lakeland Rt. 17 south. Punta Gorda was ravaged by two different hurricanes ten years ago. The city has re-built and become quite the small town for exploring. Don’t forget Fishermen’s Village, a shopping and dining mecca.

Mount Dora – One of our favorite day trips. Plenty of quirky shops and restaurants. Exceptional food at Pisces Rising. Just under 90 minutes northeast of Lakeland. Visit the seaplane capital on the way. If you like small town shopping, Mount Dora is the place to go. You will also enjoy the drive among the lakes.

Anna Maria Island – Just 75 minutes south of Tampa off I-75 take Route 64 to this quaint island. Colorful shops dot the streets, along with an uncluttered beach. Anna Maria is known for sun drench beaches on the Gulf of Mexico and a welcoming community.

Crystal River – Not just the Manatee Capital of the World, but scallops, springs and more. Plenty of things to see and do in and around Crystal River. Under two hours north straight up Rt. 98 out of Lakeland. 

The Villages – Just under 90 minutes north is the fastest-growing and friendliest community in the state. See why thousands of golf carts and immaculate streets bring over two hundred new residents each month. Another one of our favorite day trips, because of the great shops, restaurants and entertainment. Read our article on visiting The Villages for a complete guide to this fun community.

Rainbow Springs – Under two hours north of Lakeland is one of Florida’s most beautiful state parks. The clear cool water of Rainbow Springs forms the Rainbow River. Kayakers, tubers, swimmers, fishermen and bird watchers descend on the park grounds daily. Great place for a family picnic, hike or swim.

St. Pete Beach – Yes, it is another Florida beach. We know there are tons of beaches in Florida. St. Pete Beach offers more than most. Plenty of cool restaurants, waterfront bars and shops. Just 90 minutes away! 

Arcadia, Florida – Do you like old things? I mean real old things like antiques. Arcadia is known as the Antique Capital of Florida. We believe it. This small town is located 30 miles east of Bradenton and under 90 minutes due south of Lakeland on Rt. 17. Arcadia’s streets are lined with antique dealers. Every kind of antique you can imagine from 1800s farm tools to World War II relics. You could easily spend a half day roaming the shops. 

Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park – From Lakeland, take Rt. 98 northwest for about an hour and 45 minutes to Homosassa Springs. There you will find a state park dedicated to wildlife in Florida. They have captive animals, birds, and reptiles in their natural habitat. Check out this Florida State Park for an inexpensive family trip.

Most Popular Day Trips From Lakeland

We didn’t mention one of the most popular day trips from Lakeland is – Clearwater Beach. This famous destination needs little introduction. Clearwater Beach is under 70 minutes and 60 miles from Lakeland. 

Clearwater Beach is renowned for its family-friendly activities, wide white sandy beaches, and the nightly entertainment at Pier 60.

The other most popular day trip from Lakeland is Disney World and the surrounding theme parks. No details are necessary for an Orlando getaway.

Beaches Near Lakeland Florida

Below is a list of beaches near Lakeland Florida –

• Clearwater Beach – mentioned above – one hour ten minutes. This is the closest beach near Lakeland Florida.
• St. Pete Beach – one hour ten minutes from Lakeland.
• Anna Maria Island – one hour 30 minutes from Lakeland.
• Sunset Beach – Tarpon Springs – one hour and fifteen minutes from Lakeland.

Final Thoughts on Taking Day Trips from Lakeland Fl

Lakeland is such a great location not only to live, but take short trips around Florida.

That is what Florida is known for, attractions, beaches, fun and sunshine. Get your flip-flops and sunscreen on and get started!

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