Things To Do
in Altamonte Springs
Altamonte Springs is a suburban city in Seminole County, part of the Orlando metropolitan area, known for its pleasant lakes and tree-lined neighborhoods. It blends family-friendly amenities with a compact downtown feel centered around Cranes Roost Park and Uptown Altamonte. The area offers easy access to shopping, dining, and outdoor recreation, all within a short drive to larger Orlando attractions.
Its year-round warm climate supports outdoor living, making it a convenient base for Florida explorations.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll around Cranes Roost Park, where the serene lake and lush landscaping create a peaceful environment. Enjoy the morning air as you walk the scenic paths, watching the local wildlife awaken. Grab a coffee from a nearby café to fuel your explorations and find a cozy spot to sit and take in the scenery.
After a leisurely morning, head over to the nearby Altamonte Mall for some shopping and lunch. With a variety of dining options, you can enjoy everything from casual bites to more upscale meals. After lunch, indulge in some retail therapy, exploring the diverse shops and boutiques that the mall has to offer.
As the sun sets, return to Cranes Roost Park for a relaxing evening. The park often features live music and events, so check the schedule to catch a performance. End your night with a lakeside picnic, enjoying the twinkling lights of the surrounding area.
Kick off your day by visiting the Altamonte Springs Arts Festival, held in one of the city’s picturesque parks. Browse through the vibrant displays of local artists and craftspeople, soaking in the creative atmosphere. Take part in interactive art activities that are often available, making it a fun and enriching morning.
Continue exploring the festival, stopping by food stalls to sample local cuisine and artisanal treats. Attend workshops or demonstrations that showcase various artistic techniques, from painting to pottery. As the afternoon progresses, enjoy live performances that highlight the local talent and culture.
As the festival winds down, find a cozy spot at one of the nearby restaurants to discuss your favorite pieces and experiences from the day. Enjoy a delicious dinner while reflecting on the creativity you've witnessed. Cap off the evening with a leisurely walk through the park, where the artistic vibe still lingers in the air.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or cappuccino | $3-5 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment (city center, monthly) | $1,300-1,800 |
| 🚌Public transit ticket (1-way) | $2-4 |
| 💡Utilities (monthly, 85m2 apartment) | $150-250 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong lakefront parks and walkable downtown feel around Cranes Roost
- Easy access to Orlando attractions while staying in a calmer suburban setting
- Family-friendly with plenty of outdoor activities and shopping options
- Mild winters and warm summers suitable for year-round outdoor activities
- Limited nightlife compared to downtown Orlando; more low-key scene
- Some areas require a car for convenient travel between attractions
- Summer heat and hurricane season can bring storms and heavy rain
Places to Visit in Altamonte Springs
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic 60-acre lakefront park with a pedestrian boardwalk, fountains, and skyline backdrops—great for sunset photography and candid family shots.
Tranquil shoreline and looping paths ideal for serene lake views, ducks, and golden-hour photography.
Colorful storefronts, signage, and architectural details provide vintage urban photography opportunities.
Modern retail backdrop with twinkling storefront lights—good for urban-night photography.
Food in Altamonte Springs
Altamonte Springs Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Florida staple often found at casual delis and cafes; pressed sandwich with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard.
Must-Try!
A bright, tart dessert featuring lime custard on a graham crust; common in local bakeries and diners.
Coastal-influenced seafood options featuring local gulf fish; look for light frying or grilled preparation.
Comfort-food staple at many family-friendly eateries; pairs well with sides like mashed potatoes and collards.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Farm-fresh produce, local snacks, and prepared foods; a good spot to sample regional produce and baked goods.
Occasional street-food stalls and pop-up vendors offering quick bites and desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly 'hello' and polite manners go a long way; hold doors for others and smile when interacting with staff.
Keep noise levels reasonable in public spaces, especially in indoor venues and residential areas.
Florida wildlife is common near lakes and preserves; avoid feeding wildlife and give space to animals.
Safety
Tipping in Altamonte Springs
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, 15-20% is standard for restaurant service; tip more for exceptional service. At bars, $1-2 per drink is common. For taxis and rideshares, a 10-20% tip is typical.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for small vendors and tips. Contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common in many places.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder temperatures and blooming landscapes; pleasant for outdoor strolls and park photography.
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated and seek shade; calendar outdoor activities in early morning or late afternoon.
Warm days with cooler evenings; comfortable for walking tours and outdoor dining.
Mild and dryer; pleasant for outdoor exploration with occasional cool mornings.
Altamonte Springs at Night
Hiking in Altamonte Springs
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged but accessible hikes and spring-fed swimming; popular for birding and nature photography.
Scenic, bird-rich trail area ideal for long walks and wildlife spotting along the shoreline.
Easy-to-moderate trails through wetlands and pine flatwoods near the Altamonte/Longwood area.
Airports
How to reach Altamonte Springs by plane.
Major hub located roughly 25-30 miles southeast; several rental car and shuttle options with easy highway access.
Smaller airport about 25-35 miles northeast; convenient for domestic flights and regional connections.
Smaller city airport located closer to downtown Orlando; primarily general aviation and business travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Suburban neighborhoods with schools, parks, and family-friendly amenities.
Peaceful neighborhoods and accessible amenities; many residents value safety and leisure activities.
Proximity to Orlando’s job market and shopping, with a mix of apartments and evolving dining options.
Cultural diversity reflected in food, language, and community events across the metro area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Proximity to Orlando Magic games and college sports in the region; enthusiastic fan culture and events available nearby.
Several local and regional golf courses offer resort-style greens with Florida scenery.
Boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding on Lake Brantley, Wekiwa Springs area, and surrounding lakes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Altamonte Springs.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian mains, salads, and sides; ask for customization and check egg/cheese usage if needed.