Lake Mary Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Lake Mary, Florida through this comprehensive tour guide. Learn about the local culture, safety and health tips, and transportation options to help plan your itinerary.


Introduction to Lake Mary

Nestled in Greater Orlando, Lake Mary is a charming city in Seminole County, Florida. The city is famous for its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or adventure seeker, Lake Mary has something for everyone.

This comprehensive tour guide to Lake Mary will take you to the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in the city. Learn about the local culture, safety and health tips, and transportation options to help plan your itinerary.

List of Places to Visit in Lake Mary

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Lake Mary boasts rich cultural heritage and is home to several museums and historic places. The Seminole County Museum, located in Sanford, about 20 minutes from Lake Mary, is a must-visit. The museum chronicles the history of Seminole County and features a variety of exhibits and artifacts.

The Lake Mary Historical Museum, which is located inside the Lake Mary Events Center, offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s past.

The Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center of Florida is also a must-visit. Located in Maitland, about 15 minutes from Lake Mary, the center features educational exhibits and offers guided tours.

Natural Attractions of Lake Mary: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Lake Mary is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. For hiking and biking enthusiasts, the Cross Seminole Trail is a popular destination. The trail stretches for more than 23 miles and runs through several parks and natural habitats.

Visitors can also explore the Wekiva River, which is known for its crystal-clear water and abundant wildlife. The river is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.

For those who love to play golf, the Timacuan Golf and Country Club is a must-visit. The championship course is surrounded by wetlands, and visitors can enjoy scenic views of the Lake Mary skyline.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lake Mary

For outdoor enthusiasts, Lake Mary is a paradise. The Cross Seminole Trail is a popular destination for hiking and biking. Visitors can also explore the Lake Mary Trail, which is about 8.5 miles long and offers stunning views of Lake Monroe.

Best Things to Do in Lake Mary: Activities and Tours

Lake Mary offers a variety of fun-filled activities and tours. Visitors can take a relaxing boat tour of Lake Monroe and enjoy a sunset dinner cruise. Those who love adventure can explore the Wekiva River on a kayak or canoe tour.

For art enthusiasts, the City Arts Center in Sanford offers a variety of workshops and classes. Visitors can learn about painting, pottery, and ceramics.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lake Mary

Here’s a week-long itinerary for Lake Mary:

Day 1: Visit the Orlando Science Center Day 2: Explore the Seminole County Museum Day 3: Take a kayak or canoe tour of the Wekiva River Day 4: Play golf at the Timacuan Golf and Country Club Day 5: Visit the Lake Mary Historical Museum Day 6: Explore the Cross Seminole Trail Day 7: Take a boat tour of Lake Monroe and enjoy a sunset dinner cruise

Food and Drink Scene of Lake Mary

Must-Try Dishes

Lake Mary offers visitors a variety of delicious dishes to try. Seafood lovers will enjoy the crab cakes at FishBones. For authentic Italian cuisine, visitors can head to Enzo’s on the Lake and try their homemade pasta.

Local Beverages

Lake Mary is home to several craft breweries, including Hourglass Brewing and Wop’s Hops Brewing Company. Visitors can also enjoy delicious cocktails at Liam Fitzpatrick’s Irish Restaurant and Pub.

Where to Stay in Lake Mary: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Lake Mary offers visitors a variety of accommodations, including luxurious hotels, cozy guesthouses, and budget-friendly hostels. The Orlando Marriott Lake Mary is a popular destination for business and leisure travelers. The Residence Inn by Marriott Orlando Lake Mary is ideal for extended stay travelers. The Hampton Inn & Suites Lake Mary features a complimentary hot breakfast buffet and is centrally located near several shops and restaurants.

What to Buy in Lake Mary: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can bring home a piece of Lake Mary by shopping at the local farmers’ market. The market features locally grown produce, handmade crafts, and souvenirs. Visitors can also shop for vintage treasures at the Antiques and Collectibles Mall.

Local Culture and Customs of Lake Mary

The people of Lake Mary are warm and welcoming. It is customary to greet others with a smile and a friendly hello. Visitors should also dress appropriately when visiting cultural sites and places of worship.

Best Time to Visit Lake Mary

The best time to visit Lake Mary is between March and May when temperatures are mild, and the humidity is low. For those who love the sun, the summer months from June to August are ideal.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lake Mary

Do:

  • Respect local customs and culture
  • Dress appropriately when visiting cultural and religious sites
  • Take advantage of the natural beauty of the city and explore the parks and trails

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural habitats
  • Discriminate against others

Safety and Health

Safety in Lake Mary

Lake Mary is a safe city, and visitors need not worry about crime. However, visitors should take precautions and be aware of their surroundings when exploring the city.

Health in Lake Mary

Lake Mary is home to several healthcare facilities, including the Central Florida Regional Hospital and the Orlando Health South Seminole Hospital.

Getting to Lake Mary: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lake Mary

The closest international airport to Lake Mary is the Orlando International Airport (MCO), which is about 30 minutes away. The Sanford International Airport (SFB) is also a good option and is about 20 minutes away.

Bus Stations Near Lake Mary

The Greyhound Bus Station is located in Sanford, about 20 minutes from Lake Mary. Visitors can also take a Lynx bus or a shuttle service to get to Lake Mary.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or hail a taxi to get to Lake Mary.

How to Get Around in Lake Mary

The best way to explore Lake Mary is by car. Visitors can also take a Lynx bus or a taxi to get around the city.

Where to Go Next from Lake Mary: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore nearby destinations such as Orlando, home to several theme parks and attractions. The Kennedy Space Center is also a must-visit destination and is located about an hour away from Lake Mary.

Conclusion

Lake Mary is a charming city that offers visitors a variety of natural, cultural, and historical attractions. With its warm hospitality and breathtaking natural beauty, Lake Mary is truly a paradise for visitors. Plan your itinerary using this comprehensive tour guide and experience the best of Lake Mary!