While New Smyrna Beach embodies everything a Florida destination should be, we’d be lying if we said there weren’t amazing day trips just a car ride away! NSB is centrally located on the east coast making it convenient to Florida’s best attractions. Even if you seek nothing more than a beach chair and ocean view, we recommend taking at least one day to explore the neighboring areas. You’ll discover the sunshine state holds fresh springs, the oldest city in America, theme parks, our country’s space center, and more. Buckle up and get ready to explore the fun outside of New Smyrna’s shore!
30 Minute Drive
Daytona Beach
Located only a quick drive from NSB’s laid-back atmosphere is its bustling neighbor, Daytona Beach. This spring break spot has nationwide acclaim for being the life of the party. While its fast-pace atmosphere is not for everyone, it makes for an exhilarating day trip. Daytona Beach’s top attraction is the boardwalk and pier that’s been a staple for fishing, dolphin sighting, and good eating since 1925. The boardwalk is reminiscent of a Mardi-Gras themed fair. In the summer, you’ll find rides, arcade games, souvenir shops, casual dining, and even a Ferris wheel! If you’re traveling with adults, we recommend attending a NASCAR race, booking a beach horseback tour, or biking the beautiful oak-lined trails. When you’re worn out from a day of activities, you’ll love being only 30 minutes away from your NSB vacation rental.
1 Hour Drive
Kennedy Space Center
We’re here to confirm that this Florida day trip is out of this world. The Kennedy Space Center is bucket-list worthy as it’s both a landmark of innovation and a place that inspires curiosity and courage. America’s space hub is only a 1-hour drive from New Smyrna Beach. We recommend getting an early start as there’s so much to see here. From the Astronaut Hall of Fame and the first rocket ships to NASA’s newest discoveries, you’ll find yourself hooked on stories of space and adventure. Don’t feel like making the drive? You can still experience the space frontier from the comfort of your NSB condo. Rocket launches are fully visible from almost all of our vacation condos and homes! Check NASA’s launch schedule before booking.
De Leon Springs
If your water-loving soul needs more than salty ocean waves, you’ll find a fresh water alternative in De Leon Springs. From ancient tribes to Civil War soldiers to modern day Florida locals, De Leon Springs has always been a beloved spot. Today it’s a popular swimming attraction as the water is clean and refreshingly cold; the temperature averages 72 degrees! After you towel off, grab breakfast at the Sugar Mill Restaurant that lets guests do the pancake flipping. Each table has a griddle in the center so everyone can make flapjacks together. If you plan on spending the entire day in De Leon Springs, we recommend kayaking, trail walking, and taking the local boat tour.
High-End Shopping and Dining in Winter Park
The best part about vacation is that every day is meant for fine dining and shopping. Look no further than Winter Park, Florida for high-end boutiques, aesthetic restaurants, and a charming community to explore. Park Avenue is the face of Winter Park with its red brick roads and sidewalk cafes. Leave NSB early to catch the Saturday morning farmer’s market. Once you’ve filled your tote bag with fresh veggies, head to New General for coffee and then Briarpatch for brunch. From there we recommend relaxing on the historic boat tour that gives the inside scoop on the lakefront mansions and the current wealthy owners. End the day with dinner at Prato and then drive an hour back to your New Smyrna Beach getaway.
1 hour & 30 Minute Drive
St. Augustine
Did you know that the oldest city in the United States is only an hour and a half away from New Smyrna Beach? St. Augustine dates back farther than the founding fathers as it was established in 1565. This Spanish-style city is also on Florida’s east coast making it an easy day trip from NSB. No matter your interests, there’s something here for everyone. Foodies will gravitate to the local dining scene; we recommend trying the iconic Columbia Restaurant and then heading to The Hyppo for a popsicle. History buffs won’t want to miss exploring the oldest masonry fort in the US, Castillo de San Marcos, and the country’s oldest wooden school house. St. Augustine also has a beach, but trust us, you’ll want to return to New Smyrna for the best waves and sand!
Orlando Theme Parks
Nothing says a Florida vacation like rollercoasters and magical parades. The happiest place in the world is only 1.5 hours from New Smyrna Beach; it’s a day trip you’ll never forget! Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld, and other I-Drive attractions are all in the same Orlando vicinity. If you plan on only staying a day, we suggest picking your favorite theme park and purchasing a park hopping pass. This will give you the full magical experience; for example, you’ll be able to go to all four Disney parks. While the mouse house is fun for all ages, Universal Studios is best suited for teenagers as it mainly has rollercoasters and best of all… Hogwarts! Those sticking to a budget or traveling with small children will want to spend the day at SeaWorld. This park has everything from marine exhibits to thriller rides. See the attractions Orlando has to offer here.
Whether you flip pancakes in a Sugar Mill or test your bravery on Universal’s Rip Ride Rocket, fun awaits you when you explore New Smyrna Beach’s neighboring attractions. The best part about these excursions is knowing you’ll return every evening to a relaxing getaway in NSB. Our vacation rentals are equipped with your favorite amenities so you’ll always feel at home. Explore our direct oceanfront, ocean view, pet-friendly, luxury, and private home rentals on our website!