Things To Do In Deland

Best Things To Do In Deland

Favorite Things in DeLand, Florida – A Local’s Guide

Located in central Floridas Volusia County, the city of Deland is home to about 27,000 residents and lies just off Interstate 4, between Daytona Beach to the northeast and Sanford to the southwest.

Its close enough to the Atlantic coast to make day trips to the beach convenient options, and its proximity to Orlando opens up another spectrum of historical and recreational opportunities that can keep travelers busy for days.

For visitors to Deland, finding things to do shouldnt be an issue regardless of the ages and interests of your travel companions.

Below are 15 things to do in and around Deland, Florida.

Celebrate Deland Fall Festival Of The Arts

For two days in late November in central Florida, the Deland Fall Festival of the Arts is one of the region’s most anticipated and popular arts events.

It is organized by Deland Main Street Association and features juried contests that attract artists from all around Florida and the United States.

Foods, drinks, and entertainment will be available to accompany the beautiful art on display, and the festival is a terrific chance to pick up a unique piece of art to remember your trip.

Drink Coffee At Boston Coffeehouse

Joe Valente, a Boston University alumnus who moved to the area in 1996, has seen the realization of his goals with the opening of Boston Coffeehouse.

In addition to the two locations in the downtown DeLand area, the coffee shop has around five additional locations throughout Central Florida.

Breakfast burritos and eggs benedict are available at Boston Coffeehouse, along with delicious and healthful smoothies, chai teas, and freshly made coffee.

For breakfast or lunch, the restaurant serves delicious cuisine and beverages, such as mochas, coco mocha delight, and mocha mint lattes.

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Nature And Wildlife Tours

Editor’s Note: Photo taken from the establishment’s official social account

Posted by Blue Heron River Tours on Tuesday, August 27, 2019

Theres a good part of nature and wildlife to be explored here. To make the most out of your sightseeing in DeLand, Florida, it would be best to check out the Blue Heron River Tours. Tours with the company are available every between the months of September to May. The company boasts about its two-hour tour, which will show you precious sightings of baby gators, turtles and many varieties of wading birds.

Another museum worth popping into while youre moving around DeLand has got to be the Gillespie Museum. The museum is the home for many gems and minerals, most of which are found within the Earths crust. Look out for the neon rock formations and the gigantic amethyst stone. No admission fees are charged, but donations are welcome as it will support their educational programs.

Posted by Reptile Discovery Center on Saturday, January 22, 2022

This is a fantastic place for kids especially, as theyd be able to take a walk along its trail and see different types of reptiles. Think alligators, lizards, and tortoises. There is a live venom extraction program held on certain days, which makes a truly interesting watch. Did we mention that the Serpentarium has dozens of exotic and dangerous snakes on display too?

A Local Growers Market In Volusia County

Central Florida is home to a plethora of farmers markets for good reason the region benefits from a mild temperature, plenty of sunshine, and rich soil.

Every Wednesday from 7 AM to 2 PM, locals and tourists alike may shop at the largest farmers market in Volusia County.

It is both a flea market and a farmers market, and it is located in a prime spot right off Interstate 4.

Stop by and have a look around you never know what you might find, from fresh seasonal vegetables and prepared culinary items to arts and crafts, vintage apparel, and housewares.

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Perfect Places To Stay

The historic Artisan Downtown Hotel is DeLands boutique suite accommodations without the hefty price tag. I loved the exposed brick walls lined with comfy couches, functional furniture, and aesthetically pleasing decor. Contemporary and elegant describe the homey feeling property that offers free Wifi and parking, plus is within walking distance to everything in downtown DeLand.

The onsite Lounge Tapas & Martini Bar adds a convenient place to enjoy a drink and unwind without leaving the property.

The DeLand Hotel is also a great place to stay. This historic property, circa 1925, is a nice mix of antiques and modern amenities, plus offers outstanding service. My room had a huge bathroom with a claw-foot tub and a cozy bedroom with a four-poster bed. A beer and wine reception are offered daily in the parlor, including bottled water and coffee. A few shops and an onsite restaurant with lovely patio dining share an address with the hotel.

Best Things To Do In Deland Florida

The gorgeous city of DeLand, Florida was originally founded in 1876, modeled as the “Athens of Central Florida.” Today, the historic town is best known as the home of the National Register of Historic Places-designated Stetson University, the state’s oldest higher educational institution, known for its majestic red-brick buildings and Greco-Roman architectural elements.

Outdoor recreational opportunities abound, ranging from the expansive Hontoon Island State Park to the stunning Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge. Art and history buffs can peruse collections at the Museum of Art DeLand, the African-American Museum of Arts, or the WWII-focused DeLand Naval Air Station Museum.

We recommend that you call the attractions and restaurants ahead of your visit to confirm current opening times.

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What Are Some Things To Do In Deland

This section could be endless, so rather than trying tosuggest every local activity or attraction, we’ll leave itopen-ended.

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questionsbecause there’s an entire community of travelers talkingto each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is whereyou can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets,trip dates & more!

Deland Naval Air Station Museum

DeLand Travel Guide 2022 // BEST THINGS to See & Do Now

During World War II, Deland Naval Air Station was buzzing with activity as were all the countrys Army Air Corps facilities.

When the war ended, the station reverted to its civilian aviation role, but its military history hasnt been lost. The museum that now sits on the site is dedicated to preserving the bases interesting past and includes a variety of exhibits containing equipment, photographs, uniforms, and other historically significant memorabilia.

Of course, the old war-birds are most visitors favorites and include an Avenger torpedo bomber and a mach-2 capable F-14 Tomcat like the ones forever immortalized in Top Gun.

Guided tours are available, but youll need to make reservations in advance.

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Grab A Drink At Persimmon Hollow Brewing Co

This brewery, founded in 2014, is the dream of homebrewers Robbie Carelli and Andy Sistrunk in DeLand’s SoNY area in the trendy Artisan Alley corridor, Persimmon Hollow Brewing Company.

An innovative American and Belgian-style brew is available on tap in the brewery’s taproom or at many restaurants in the Orlando area and several wholesalers and distributors.

These include Daytona Dirty Blonde Ale, Lake Time Lager, Three Guys Wise Coffee Porter, and Beach Hippie IPA.

Its pet-friendly taproom, two available to the public seven days a week, serves up a selection of wines.

Since the taproom doesn’t serve food, guests can bring food from surrounding eateries, like Artisan Taqueria, which is next door.

Deland Artisan Alley Farmers Market

If you are in DeLand on a Friday evening, you will want to visit the DeLand Artisan Alley Farmers Market, which features over 40 vendors and farmers.

The marketplace is a great place to shop for produce, sweet treats like cookies, bath products, art, and so many other things!

This is a great opportunity to support local farmers and businesses, while also purchasing quality foods and items.

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Explore Hontoon Island State Park

Hontoon Island State Park is a large park spanning on 1,600 acres of land on Hontoon Island in Volusia County.

This park is easily reachable six kilometers on the western side of Deland by a private boat launch or ferry service.

Youll see beautiful natural palm hammocks, oaks, bald cypress swamp ecosystems, and pine flatwood while exploring this park.

With a permit, Hontoon Island State Park provides a variety of fun things to do, including kayaking, canoeing, fishing, cycling, hiking, and nature watching.

This park is also a fantastic location for photography, so dont foget to come along with your camera.

Popular Types Of Attractions In Deland

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Peruse Different Crafted Items At Deland Artisan Alley Farmers Market

You may go to Deland Artisan Alley Farmers Market in sunny or wet weather.

On the other hand, it’s open late on Fridays, from 6 to 9, unlike most farmers’ markets, which only run from the morning until the early afternoon.

That makes it a great location to relax and stretch your legs after some hard day at the office.

The historic downtown is awash with fashionable restaurants and bars that serve delicious food and drink and live music.

Its offerings include baked products, honey, salsa, and pickles made with local organic ingredients.

Henry A Deland House Museum

The DeLand House was constructed in 1886 by the man himself, and after changing owners for a couple of times, it was donated to the city of DeLand. Its doors were changed from those of a home to a museum in 1990. The Henry a. DeLand House Museum contains many items and information on the history of the western end of Volusia County. A great place to visit if you want to learn more about the county youve just stepped into.

Address: 137 W Michigan Ave, 32720 DeLand, FL

There are no admission charges to this park, but it does require a boat or park ferry to get there. When you do reach Hontoon Island, trudge through its area to see its Native American habitation evidence, as the island itself has served the community for centuries. Fish, canoe or take a boat ride around its waters. You could also rent an overnight boat to soak in every once in this particular Florida state park. Spending quality time here is one of the best DeLand activities!

The mansion holds within itself a tale of woe and revival. Stetson Mansion was once one of the grandest homes in Florida . Due to some unforeseen circumstances, the grand building was lost from the publics eye for a hundred years. With some extensive work done to its frame, the mansion now stands in its glory once again. Tours are available from time to time, so do check its website for full details.

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Take A Walk At Reptile Discovery Center

A visit to the Reptile Discovery Center, located in DeLand, is one of the citys most interesting interactive nature experiences since it allows visitors to get close to some of Floridas most deadly reptile species.

The renowned Serpentarium houses dozens of unusual and potentially lethal snake species, including huge Burmese pythons, mambas, and king cobras.

Along the nature walk outside the facility, guests can observe alligators and lizards in their native environments from the safety of enclosed viewing areas.

The centers Medtoxin Venom Laboratories, which produces commercially-harvested venom for anti-toxin companies around the world, hosts live venom extraction demonstrations every afternoon, Thursday through Sunday.

Enjoy Brews At Persimmon Hollow Brewing Company

Highlights of Downtown DeLand – DeLand, FL

Robbie Carelli and Andy Sistrunk, two home brewers who dreamed of opening a brewery, launched Persimmon Hollow Brewing Company in 2014.

You are provided with a wide selection of unusual brews to enjoy at the brewery, giving you the ability to go crazy while simultaneously engaging in responsible drinking.

Drinks like Three Guys Wise Coffee Porter, Daytona Dirty Blonde Ale, Beach Hippie IPA, Lake Time Lager, and more are available from Persimmon Hollow Brewing Company.

You can bring your pets to this location, and you are even allowed to bring them into the tap room because it is a pet-friendly establishment.

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Catch A Sporting Event At Edmunds Center

In addition to hosting the university’s men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball teams, the Edmunds Center is a multi-purpose facility that can accommodate up to 5,000 people.

In 1974, it opened and was renamed after a former school president.

Basketball competitions have taken place at this facility since the early 1990s.

Despite its age, the facility has received various recent modifications.

Visiting college campuses is a great way to get to know a new city, so check out their websites before you go to get the most out of your time there.

Blue Heron River Tours

Take a trip down the St. Johns River with Blue Heron River Tours. The company provides two-hour boat tours on the St. Johns River that lead into Ocala National Forest.

The excursion is one of the top things to do in the area and an excellent opportunity to see Florida wildlife outside of enclosed exhibits. Learn about the history of the river and the animals that call this land home.

Another park to visit in DeLand is Lake Beresford Park, known for its trail that connects to the Spring-to-Spring Trail, an easy path to follow 3 miles down to Blue Springs State Park.

The park itself also has restrooms, pavilions, and playgrounds.

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Clark Bay Conservation Area

Clark Bay Conservation Area is a 4,795-acre conservation stretching throughout DeLand, protecting significant expanses of mesic and wet flatwoods. The conservation area strives to restore Central Florida habitats that were harmed in the past by the tree farming industry and significant wildfires during the late 20th century. Outdoor recreational opportunities abound for park visitors, including opportunities for wilderness hiking along the wetland swamp basins of Deep and Little Haw Creeks. Visitors can also spot a plethora of native Florida wildlife, ranging from black bears and deer to bald eagles, sandhill cranes, swallow-tailed kites, and migratory songbirds. Other recreational opportunities include equestrian trails and seasonal hunting sites.

DeLand, FL 32724

The 10 Best Things To Do In Deland Fl

Deland is a city in Volusia County, Florida, with a population of over 27,000.

It is conveniently located right off Interstate 4, midway between Daytona Beach and Sanford.

Its proximity to the Atlantic coast makes daily visits to the beach a viable option, and its proximity to Orlando provides access to a wealth of additional cultural and recreational attractions that may keep visitors occupied for days.

Any group of tourists to Deland, Florida, will be able to enjoy themselves, regardless of their interests or age.

Here is a list of the 10 best things to do in Deland FL which is attractions and activities in and near Deland, Florida.

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Eat Latin Cuisines At De La Vega Restaurante Y Galeria

Without requiring them to drive far, DeLand residents and visitors at enjoy traditional Latin cuisine at De La Vega Restaurante y Galeria.

The restaurant has a range of choices, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free dishes, to make sure that everyone can find something to satisfy them.

The restaurant serves delectable gourmet meals and is available for lunch and dinner from Tuesday through Saturday.

At their full-service bar, De La Vega Restaurante y Galeria also provides a huge selection of craft beers that are sourced from Florida.

Explore With Blue Heron River Tours

The Hontoon Dead of DeLand habitats, including the St. Johns River, can be explored with the help of Blue Heron River Tours, a tour operator that promises its customers an exceptional experience.

Blue Heron River Tours is well-known for providing spectacular boat cruises and eco tours throughout the year utilizing its specialized Blue Vessel, which was created especially to pass through slightly deep backwater areas in Central Florida.

As they also get to see other regions, the tour business provides travelers with fascinating information about the ecosystems and habitats of the area.

Exploring with Blue Heron River Tours, you can see alligators, turtles, and wading birds in a picturesque setting thats ideal for photos.

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Visit The Museum Of Art Deland

The American Association of University Women established The Museum of Art Deland in 1951.

As a non-profit organization affiliated with the American Alliance of Museums, the Museum of Art Deland is committed to safeguarding and advancing the fine arts in Central Florida.

Over 750 works are part of the museums permanent collection, which also includes rotating shows by artists such Stephen Althouse, Sandro Chia, and Fernando Botero.

The 2010-founded Evans C. and Betty Drees Johnson Childrens Art Center at the Museum of Art Deland offers various workshops and programs.

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Is Deland, FL a good place to live?

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