Things To Do
in DeLand
DeLand is a small, historic college town in central Florida known for its brick-lined downtown, preserved architecture, and lively arts scene. Home to Stetson University, the city blends a youthful academic energy with long-standing Southern charm. Its location places it comfortably between Orlando and the Atlantic coast, making beaches, springs, and forests easy day trips.
Visitors find a compact downtown full of cafés, galleries, independent shops, and seasonal events.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café in the heart of DeLand. Afterward, embark on a walking tour of the Historic District, where you can admire the beautiful architecture of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Don’t forget to stop by the iconic Athens Theatre, a historic venue that epitomizes the town's vibrant culture.
After lunch at a quaint restaurant, visit the Museum of Florida Art to explore its impressive collection of contemporary and historical works. Spend some time strolling through the charming downtown area, popping in and out of unique shops and boutiques filled with local crafts and souvenirs. As the afternoon progresses, consider a visit to the Stetson Mansion, Florida's first luxury home, to learn about its rich history and stunning design.
In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at one of DeLand's fine dining establishments, experiencing the local flavors. Following dinner, catch a live performance or concert at the historic Athens Theatre, where you can immerse yourself in the local arts scene. Wind down your day with a leisurely walk along the scenic streets, perhaps stopping for a sweet treat at a nearby dessert shop.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast, then head to Blue Springs State Park, known for its stunning natural beauty and crystal-clear springs. Upon arrival, take a leisurely hike along one of the park's scenic trails, where you might spot manatees and various bird species. The fresh air and lush surroundings will invigorate you as you explore this beautiful habitat.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the park's designated areas, surrounded by nature. After lunch, indulge in some swimming or kayaking in the refreshing spring waters, a perfect way to cool off on a warm day. You can also rent a canoe to explore the St. Johns River, taking in the serene landscapes and wildlife.
As the sun begins to set, make your way back to DeLand and freshen up before dinner. Choose a cozy, local restaurant to savor a meal featuring Florida's seafood delicacies. After dinner, consider heading back to Blue Springs for an evening stroll, where the tranquil atmosphere will provide a perfect ending to your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕️Coffee or café drink | $3-5 |
| 🍺Domestic beer at a bar | $4-7 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $100-160 |
| ⛽️Gas (per gallon) | $3-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming, walkable historic downtown with shops and galleries.
- Close to springs, rivers, and beaches for diverse day trips.
- Strong arts and live-music scene, plus a lively college presence.
- Lower crowds than bigger Florida tourist hubs, relaxing pace.
- Hot, humid summers and a risk of tropical storms in hurricane season.
- Limited late-night public transport and fewer big-city amenities.
- Some outdoor activities are seasonal (manatees in winter, mosquitoes in warmer months).
Places to Visit in DeLand
Visit one of these nice places.
Brick sidewalks, vintage façades, murals, and boutique storefronts make for classic small-town street photography, especially in golden-hour light.
Well-kept greens, historic architecture, and mature trees provide picturesque compositions and seasonal color.
Crystal-clear spring, boardwalks, and abundant wildlife (including manatees in winter) offer excellent nature and wildlife shots.
A picturesque spring with a historic mill and shaded picnic areas; water, reflections, and greenery are photogenic year-round.
Riverside scenes with kayaks, cypress trees, and sunsets — great for tranquil landscape and water reflections.
Food in DeLand
DeLand Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh Gulf or Atlantic-caught fish prepared simply — often served with fries, slaw, or local sides; available at seafood shacks and downtown restaurants.
Must-Try!
A Southern favorite with local shrimp; find it at brunch spots and bistros for a hearty, regionally influenced meal.
Pulled pork, smoked ribs, and sides like collard greens and mac ’n’ cheese appear at classic Florida smokehouses and casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A popular weekend market in/near downtown with seasonal produce, baked goods, prepared foods, and crafts — great for sampling local honey, citrus, and farm cheeses.
Downtown often hosts pop-up food events, food trucks, and night markets offering tacos, sandwiches, wood-fired pizzas, and desserts — check local event calendars.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Politeness, friendly small talk, and a relaxed pace are typical — greetings and courteous behavior are appreciated.
Preserve the charm of downtown and campus areas by following posted rules, respecting private property, and keeping noise reasonable at night.
Casual dress is widely accepted; for religious services or theatre performances, smart-casual attire is appropriate. Be mindful of sunscreen and mosquito protection outdoors.
Safety
Tipping in DeLand
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard U.S. tipping applies: 15–20% at full-service restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, rounding up for taxis/rideshares, and $2–5 for hotel housekeeping per night. Tip service staff, tour guides, and drivers when service is helpful.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (Apple Pay/Google Pay) are common. Small cash is useful for markets, tips, and small vendors. ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid, and storm-prone; afternoon thunderstorms are common. Plan outdoor activities for mornings, stay hydrated, and be aware of hurricane season (June–November).
Temperatures gradually ease and humidity drops; pleasant days for outdoor exploration and fewer crowds. Hurricane threat declines later in the season but remains possible early on.
Mild days and cool nights make it a popular time for snowbirds; Blue Spring attracts manatees when water temperatures drop. Pack a light jacket for evenings.
Warm, blooming, and comfortable — ideal for festivals, farmers' markets, and outdoor recreation; pollen can be high for allergy sufferers.
DeLand at Night
Hiking in DeLand
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short boardwalks and nature trails with excellent wildlife viewing — particularly manatees in winter and abundant birdlife year-round.
Pleasant walking paths around the spring and picnic areas with opportunities to combine a swim and nature walk.
About an hour away, these areas offer longer trails, springs, canoe launches, and forested scenery for day hikes and swimming.
Great for birdwatching and flat, easy trails through wetlands that showcase regional wildlife and migratory birds.
Riverside trails and interpretive paths near Daytona provide shady hikes and good opportunities for spotting local fauna.
Airports
How to reach DeLand by plane.
Closest regional airport (roughly 25–35 minutes by car), convenient for short domestic flights and a quick drive to DeLand.
Major international airport about 45–70 minutes' drive depending on traffic; offers many domestic and international connections and car rental options.
Smaller airport north of Orlando about 45–60 minutes from DeLand; serves some domestic and international routes, often used by budget carriers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Stetson University contributes a sizable student population, influencing local culture, events, and nightlife.
Long-term families and working professionals who commute to nearby cities live in residential neighborhoods around town.
Seasonal residents and retirees are common, attracted by the mild winters and relaxed pace.
Local business owners, artists, and service workers create a community-oriented downtown economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Stetson University brings collegiate basketball, baseball, and other sports, drawing students and local fans to events.
Friday night football is a community focal point during the fall season.
Recreational fishing, freshwater boating, and nearby surf fishing are widely practiced and popular with residents and visitors.
Golf is popular in central Florida with several nearby courses for casual and dedicated players.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting DeLand.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most cafés and bistros offer vegetarian salads, grain bowls, and vegetarian mains; many places can adapt dishes on request, but options may be more limited than in larger cities.
Vegan choices exist (bowls, salads, and plant-based sandwiches), particularly at cafés and some newer restaurants; it's wise to call ahead for fully vegan entrées.
Gluten-free options are available, especially in bakeries and restaurants that note dietary needs; cross-contamination can occur, so communicate clearly with staff.
Most independent restaurants are accommodating — inform servers of allergies and double-check preparations, especially for shellfish and nuts.