Top Things to do in Mid Florida
Top Restaurants in Mid Florida
10 Things to Do in Mid Florida That You Shouldn't Miss
Discover the best top things to do in Mid Florida, United States including Blue Spring State Park, West Orange Trail, Audubon Center for Birds of Prey, Lake Dora, Lake Louisa State Park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Giraffe Ranch, St. John's River Eco Tours, LLC, Central Florida Nature Adventures, Withlacoochee State Trail.
Restaurants in Mid Florida
1. Blue Spring State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
State park offering a variety of outdoor activities including camping, hiking, canoeing, fishing, boating, snorkeling and scuba diving.
Reviewed By Questovia - Minot, North Dakota
Wouldn't you know it the one day I go over to the gorgeous Blue Spring State Park and the manatees are on vacation and didn't make an appearance. It was rather cold so I'm not sure where they were hiding out but we still enjoyed the beautiful boardwalk, historic home, store, and well kept grounds of the park. It's such a peaceful place and so welcoming for families of all ages with great places to picnic. Hopefully next visit I'll see the manatees.
2. West Orange Trail
Overall Ratings
5 based on 115 reviews
Reviewed By TheBookworm78
We took the trail from Killarney Station to Winter Garden Station (a round trip of about 10 miles) and were suitably impressed. We hired bikes at Killarney Station which was easy to do and reasonably priced, something I would definitely recommend doing if you're visiting the area and don't have your own bikes with you.
The Orange County Parks & Recreation division (the department responsible for the maintenance and development of the trail) have clearly thought things through, with a multi-purpose trail suitable for walkers, cyclists, joggers and skaters taking visitors through wooded, green-space and residential areas. There are mile markers along the way, so you know how far you've gone (maps are also available at most of the stations) and information boards along the trail provide useful information about the flora and fauna you might see along the way.
Most of the trail is flat which is preferable given the high temperatures this region is known for. There are large sections of the trail which are shaded by overhead tree canopy, but I would recommend a visit earlier in the morning before it gets too hot if you don't like the idea of cycling/walking in the heat! It can also get pretty busy, especially at the weekends, so I would recommend going during the week if you're looking to avoid heavy traffic.
Most of the stations along the trail have amenities (restrooms, vending machines, etc) although we found some of them were closed on the day we went (Sunday). There's lots to see along the way, including some lovely houses, wildlife and quirky commercial buildings featuring some very interesting decorations!
All in all this is a great way to see Florida in a different and unique way and makes a welcome change from the busy theme parks and outlet malls. Well worth a visit if you're looking to take a break from the usual attractions and want something different to do.
3. Audubon Center for Birds of Prey
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 137 reviews
Reviewed By Anne M - West Simsbury, Ct
We had a family outing and loved the raptor center. Lots to see , demonstrations, up close viewing of birds by handlers. Good for kids and for all walking abilities. The people working at the center are knowledgeable and friendly. Great morning adventure, easy access, easy parking and family friendly prices. Bathrooms too.
4. Lake Dora
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 510 reviews
Reviewed By James H - Fort Pierce, Florida
We toured the lake, both on the east side and again on the north side, saying next to the shore line when the road permitted. Many parks, beautiful places to walk, and scenery for the camera. Each trip took about1/2 a day. Well worth the time.
5. Lake Louisa State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 516 reviews
Lake Louisa State Park is 4500 acres of beautiful, real Florida! Just minutes from the area's major attractions, the park hosts guided horseback rides, guided kayak eco-tours, kayak canoe and bike rentals, fishing, hiking, biking, camping, swimming, and just about anything else you would expect in a natural setting. Home to 20+ miles of trails, 7 lakes, 60 campsites, 20 cabins, a swim beach, playground, fishing piers, and more, you could spend days on end exploring this treasured gem.
Reviewed By elle9992864 - West Palm Beach, Florida
The cabin itself has everything you need to have a great time. We brought some creature comforts like pillows, blankets, and extra towels. Also bring a cast iron skillet, whisk, cooks knife, sponge, and measuring cup. The cabin is large and comfy for the four of us. The properties are laid out well. We did the 2 hour horseback riding and it was wonderful l. We couldn’t have asked for a more laid back time. It was like living in the 80’s again with no tv and computer distractions. We had everyone unconnect digitaly and it was a great time!
6. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Overall Ratings
5 based on 35 reviews
There are many ways to enjoy your Orlando vacation, but there is only one place where vacation becomes adventure: Universal Orlando Resort. It is a unique destination featuring two theme parks, Universal Studios Florida and Universal's Islands of Adventure, three magnificently themed on-site hotels and a nighttime entertainment complex. It's the only Orlando destination where you are not just entertained - you become part of the most exhilarating entertainment ever created. You can soar above Hogwarts with Harry Potter, swing above the streets with Spider-Man, battle aliens alongside Agent J, and help Shrek save Princess Fiona in Shrek 4-D. Now open: the new, heart-warming and hilarious Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride. And coming soon: Transformers The Ride-3D. Universal Orlando Resort is part of NBCUniversal, a Comcast company.
Reviewed By Foody4Ldn - London, United Kingdom
This is an excellent addition to universal since we last visited. The kids loved it! Rides are fabulous!!
7. Giraffe Ranch
Overall Ratings
5 based on 380 reviews
Go on a high-quality, guided safari on a working exotic game ranch in Tampa Bay, Florida.
Reviewed By timmy13Syracuse - syracuse
My wife and I read 5 star reviews prior to visiting The Giraffe Ranch and we realized that the cost would be $90.00 per person, including children. We were a bit skeptical that we would get that much value from the experience but went for it anyway. We were thrilled to discover that it is worth every penny and more. The ranch owners personally spent more than two hours with us. The experience was not only enjoyable but more importantly a real education. They team teach you and you will love it! We are grandparents so we brought our 5 year old, who interacted with both husband and wife with great enjoyment. They clearly enjoy teaching children. The bottom line is that the Giraffe Ranch is definitely worthwhile.
8. St. John's River Eco Tours, LLC
Overall Ratings
5 based on 123 reviews
Discover the beauty of Natural Florida aboard our new 28 passenger pontoon boat. Join us in exploring the back waters of one of the most protected areas of the St. John's River. Whether it is from November through March when the many migratory birds and wintering manatees abound or during the summer months when we see the alligator hatchlings and the year round residents.
Reviewed By joan61801 - Urbana, Illinois
Well organized and responsive company. I made a mistake in my reservation and one quick phone call fixed it. What could be better than a pleasant boat ride while learning about the animals, plants, and people who live along the St. John's River? Our guide...MoreThank you for your kind words we appreciate everyone who comes to share our river and strive to make the experience as enjoyable as possible see you next time you visit
9. Central Florida Nature Adventures
Overall Ratings
5 based on 174 reviews
The highest ranked kayak guide by TripAdvisor in all of Central Florida! Kenny is a local who will show you that secret oasis. You'll explore unique eco systems found nowhere else with a wildlife enthusiast that will keep you smiling. Safely drift past the River Otters playing, the Alligator sunning on the log. Visit with the Manatees, the Monkeys and watch the Anhingas fish. We kayak only 1 location per day, booked first come first served and our rivers are easy access from Orlando, Daytona Beach, Ocala, The Villages and Mt Dora, FL. Choose a family kayak tour, birding tour, photography tour or a trip for the adventurous soul and we'll provide all the equipment so you can have an awesome time on the river. Bring your camera and experience why our customers rate him Number One. Discover Florida's Wildlife with a true Floridian and take home memories that last a lifetime!
Reviewed By VickyfromVictoria - BC Canada
What an amazing experience to kayak in truly wild Florida. Had a terrific time seeing so many birds, plants, turtles and the occasional alligator, up close, but from the safety of the kayak. Birds included little blue and green herons, limpkin, anhinga, white ibis, cat birds, red-shouldered hawk, 3 species of woodpeckers and many passerines. I have kayaked in coastal regions of Florida on previous trips but found this the most exciting in terms of scenery and wildlife. Kenny proved to be a very knowledgable guide about everything relating to the flora and fauna and an expert in anticipating everything to make the day comfortable, safe and fun.
10. Withlacoochee State Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 180 reviews
At 46 miles in length, the Withlacoochee State Trail is presently one of the the longest paved rail-trails in Florida. With a generally flat terrain and many access points, the trail is an ideal venue for all skill and fitness levels of cycling, running, walking and skating an unpaved equestrian trail parallels portions of the paved trail. The trail corridor traverses three counties (Citrus, Hernando and Pasco), offering an enjoyable, varied journey as it runs through small towns, ranches and six distinct natural communities between Citrus Springs and Dade City. Officially designated as part of the Florida Greenways and Trail System, this State Trail is also a National Recreation Trail® which offers rich opportunities for viewing plants & wildlife and provides access to many other outstanding recreational opportunities.
Reviewed By Steve R - Louisville, Kentucky
We have done two half-day rides on the Withlacoochee State Trail and it has opened a whole new area of recreation to us. We have walked the trail on its south end, ridden it south of Floral City and now have ridden north from Inverness...MoreWe are happy that you enjoyed your outing on the Trail. We hope you will visit us again.
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