Orange City Travel Guide

Explore Orange City, Florida with our comprehensive tour guide featuring top attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Orange City

Located in Volusia County, Florida, Orange City is a hidden gem that offers a unique variety of attractions and experiences in the heart of the Sunshine State. The city is home to a mix of culture, history, natural beauty, and modern amenities, all easily accessible and within reach. If you’re looking to explore Florida beyond its famous beaches, Orange City should be high on your list.

List of Places to Visit in Orange City

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Orange City Historic District

Orange City’s historic district is a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. It includes several beautifully preserved homes, some dating back to the 19th century, that showcase the different styles and trends of the period. The district is easy to explore on foot and guided tours are available.

DeBary Hall Historic Site

Located just outside of Orange City, the DeBary Hall Historic Site is a beautiful mansion that dates back to the 19th century. It has been restored and converted into a museum that features exhibits on the history of the area, as well as guided tours of the mansion itself.

Natural Attractions of Orange City: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Blue Spring State Park

Blue Spring State Park is a stunning natural reserve that offers a variety of outdoor activities and stunning views. You can enjoy hiking, swimming, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. The park is home to manatees, alligators, and various bird species, making it a must-see for nature lovers.

Gemini Springs Park

Gemini Springs Park is a popular destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Its trails wind around the park’s two springs, offering breathtaking views of the natural surroundings. The park also has picnic areas, playgrounds, and other amenities that make it a great spot for a family day out.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Orange City

Orange City is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with a variety of hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views of the area’s natural beauty. Some of the top routes include:

  • Spring to Spring Trail: A 26-mile trail that connects several of Orange City’s parks and natural reserves, including Gemini Springs Park and Blue Spring State Park.
  • C2C Trail: A 250-mile trail that connects Orange City with other parts of Florida, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.
  • East Central Regional Rail Trail: A 36-mile trail that winds through several towns in Volusia County, including Orange City.

Best Things to Do in Orange City: Activities and Tours

Airboat Tours

Airboat tours are a popular way to explore the natural beauty of Orange City. These guided tours take visitors through the St. Johns River and nearby lakes, providing close encounters with native wildlife, including alligators.

Skydiving

If you’re looking for a thrilling experience, skydiving is a must-try in Orange City. Several local companies offer tandem jumps with experienced instructors, providing breathtaking views of the area from high above.

Shopping

Orange City has several shopping centers that offer a mix of local and national brands. Some of the top spots to check out include the Orange City Marketplace and the Volusia Mall.

Week-Long Itinerary for Orange City

If you’re planning to spend a week in Orange City, here’s an example itinerary that covers some of the top attractions and experiences:

  • Day 1: Historic district walking tour and lunch at a local restaurant.
  • Day 2: Airboat tour and lunch at a local seafood restaurant.
  • Day 3: Visit DeBary Hall Historic Site and enjoy a picnic at Gemini Springs Park.
  • Day 4: Hike the Spring to Spring Trail and lunch at a local cafe.
  • Day 5: Skydiving experience and dinner at a local brewery.
  • Day 6: Visit Blue Spring State Park and have a picnic lunch.
  • Day 7: Shopping and dining at the Orange City Marketplace.

Food and Drink Scene of Orange City

Must-Try Dishes

When it comes to food in Orange City, there’s something for everyone. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Shrimp and grits: This classic Southern dish is a local favorite, especially at seafood restaurants like The Garlic.
  • Key lime pie: Florida is known for its Key lime pie, and Orange City has some of the best in the state. Try it at places like the Old Spanish Sugar Mill Grill and Griddle House.
  • BBQ: Orange City has several great BBQ spots, like Fat Boy’s Bar-B-Q, that serve up mouth-watering ribs, pulled pork, and more.

Local Beverages

Orange City has a growing craft beer scene, with several local breweries that offer a variety of brews. Some of the top spots to check out include Orange City’s Brewing Company and Tomoka Brewing Co.

Where to Stay in Orange City: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Orange City offers a variety of lodging options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. Some of the top places to stay include:

  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites Orange City – Deltona
  • Quality Inn Orange City
  • Alling House Bed and Breakfast

What to Buy in Orange City: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking to bring home some souvenirs and local products from your Orange City trip, some of the top items to consider include:

  • Citrus fruits: As the name suggests, Florida is known for its citrus fruits, and Orange City is no exception. Visit local fruit stands for fresh oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes.
  • Seafood: Orange City’s proximity to the coast means that it has some of the freshest seafood in the state. Pick up some shrimp, oysters, or crab to take home.
  • Local art: Orange City has a vibrant art scene, with several galleries and studios that showcase the work of local artists. Visit places like the Artisan Alley for unique pieces to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Orange City

Orange City is home to a diverse mix of cultures and traditions, all of which contribute to its unique character and charm. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, including dress codes at certain places of worship.

Best Time to Visit Orange City

The best time to visit Orange City is during the fall and winter months (October to February), when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities. However, visitors can enjoy Orange City’s attractions and activities year-round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Orange City

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Take advantage of outdoor activities and natural attractions.
  • Try local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural areas.
  • Disrespect other visitors or locals.
  • Ignore safety precautions when participating in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Orange City

Orange City is generally considered a safe destination for visitors. However, it’s always important to take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings, especially when participating in outdoor activities.

Health in Orange City

Florida has a humid subtropical climate, which can lead to heat-related health risks, especially in the summer months. Visitors should stay hydrated and take frequent breaks when participating in outdoor activities to prevent illness or injury.

Getting to Orange City: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Orange City

The closest airport to Orange City is Orlando Sanford International Airport, which is about 25 miles away. Other options include Daytona Beach International Airport (30 miles) and Orlando International Airport (50 miles).

Bus Stations Near Orange City

Greyhound has a bus station in nearby Deland, which is about 7 miles from Orange City.

Other Options

Renting a car is the most convenient way to travel in and around Orange City. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.

How to Get Around in Orange City

Orange City is easily navigable by car or bike. Some of the top rental companies include Enterprise, Hertz, and Bike Florida.

Where to Go Next from Orange City: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Orange City is a great starting point for exploring other parts of Florida, from coastal towns to theme parks. Some of the top destinations and excursions include:

  • Daytona Beach (30 miles)
  • St. Augustine (80 miles)
  • Walt Disney World (70 miles)
  • Universal Studios Orlando (60 miles)

Conclusion

Orange City, Florida offers a unique blend of history, culture, nature, and modern amenities that make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a different kind of Florida experience. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, foodie, or adventure seeker, Orange City has something for everyone.

Orange City Town Hall Orange City Town Hall