Posted on 8/10/2021

Easy Day Trips from New Smyrna Beach

While New Smyrna Beach embodies everything a Florida destination should be, weâd be lying if we said there werenât amazing day trips just a car ride away! NSB is centrally located on the east coast making it convenient to Floridaâs 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. Youâll discover the sunshine state holds fresh springs, the oldest city in America, theme parks, our countryâs space center, and more. Buckle up and get ready to explore the fun outside of New Smyrnaâs shore!

30 Minute Drive

Daytona Beach

Located only a quick drive from NSBâs 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 Beachâs top attraction is the boardwalk and pier thatâs 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, youâll find rides, arcade games, souvenir shops, casual dining, and even a Ferris wheel!  If youâre traveling with adults, we recommend attending a NASCAR race, booking a beach horseback tour, or biking the beautiful oak-lined trails. When youâre worn out from a day of activities, youâll love being only 30 minutes away from your NSB vacation rental.

1 Hour Drive

Kennedy Space Center

Weâre here to confirm that this Florida day trip is out of this world. The Kennedy Space Center is bucket-list worthy as itâs both a landmark of innovation and a place that inspires curiosity and courage. Americaâs space hub is only a 1-hour drive from New Smyrna Beach. We recommend getting an early start as thereâs so much to see here. From the Astronaut Hall of Fame and the first rocket ships to NASAâs newest discoveries, youâll find yourself hooked on stories of space and adventure. Donât 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 NASAâs launch schedule before booking.

De Leon Springs

If your water-loving soul needs more than salty ocean waves, youâll 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 itâs 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 farmerâs market. Once youâve 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