Do Orlando North: Charm, Nature, and Adrenaline in the Heart of Central Florida

Few destinations offer as many year-round opportunities for adventure as Orlando North. From natural springs and historic town squares to boardwalks and bike trails, here’s what to add to your Central Florida itinerary.

Wekiva Island

Florida’s beaches may have worldwide fame, but it’s the natural waterways you won’t want to miss during your visit. Orlando North is home to Wekiva Island, offering visitors access to one of the state’s largest and most spectacular all-natural Springs. The sparkling waters stay a cool 72 degrees throughout the year, even on the warmest of days. Rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard and explore the river. Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife! You may catch a glimpse of a gator or manatee from the comfort of your Wekiva Island cabana.

Historic Downtown Sanford

If historic charm and unique shopping are on your trip checklist, plan a day in Downtown Sanford. Start with a morning cup of coffee and fresh pastries from a café to fuel up for a stroll along the lakefront boardwalk. Grab lunch and a cold drink at a brewery or bistro, then pop into boutiques and antique shops to find a one-of-a-kind souvenir. You’ll have your choice of dinner options, from German classics to southern BBQ, and don’t forget dessert!

Seminole Wekiva Bike Trail

Flowing through 14 miles of Orlando North, the Seminole Wekiva bike trail connects Lake Mary to Altamonte Springs, with plenty of sights to see on your ride. Take a break from pedalling to check out the “Paint the Trail” art installation, ranging from portraits of pop culture icons to landscapes. If 14 miles is too long of a ride to take on vacation, pack a picnic and make a pitstop at a local park or take a short detour over to one of the area’s restaurants or cafes for a pick-me-up.

Cranes Roost Park

Uptown Altamonte’s Cranes Roost Park offers the best of both worlds—a place to enjoy a beautiful Florida day outdoors surrounded by nature, but just steps away from dining, shopping, and more. With a one-mile paved walkway along the lake, covered seating areas, and a European-style plaza featuring a choreographed fountain show, this park is the perfect spot to take it easy for an afternoon. Want to stay active instead? Lace up your sneakers for a run around the loop and get your heart pumping before the next adventure on your itinerary.

Black Hammock Airboat Tours

For those looking for a high-speed, adrenaline-rushing way to experience Florida’s picturesque lakes, look no further than Black Hammock’s airboat tours. On this 30-minute ride through Lake Jesup, you’ll come up close with Florida’s wildlife, namely gators, as over 10,000 have been recorded at this location! But don’t worry; this is a perfectly safe, family-friendly activity and a memorable addition to your Orlando North excursion.

Plan your adventure-packed getaway at DoOrlandoNorth.com