Things to Do in Sanford, Florida

Where to Eat

• The Old Jailhouse – Unique dining experience inside a restored historic jail, serving Southern-inspired dishes.
• Hollerbach’s Willow Tree Café – Famous German restaurant offering hearty schnitzels, sausages, and live polka music.
• The Breezeway Restaurant & Bar – Outdoor patio dining with a menu of fresh seafood, burgers, and cold drinks.
• Fuel BBQ – Authentic slow-cooked barbecue favorites served in a lively downtown setting.

If you are interested in local events:

• St. Johns River Festival of the Arts (May) – Juried fine arts festival showcasing local and national artists downtown.
• Sanford Porchfest (February) – Free music festival where bands perform on neighborhood porches throughout the historic district.
• Hollerbach’s Oktoberfest (October) – Celebrate German culture with music, food, dancing, and lots of fun in downtown Sanford.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Sanford, Florida:

• Blue Spring State Park (30 min) – See manatees in winter, swim or kayak in crystal-clear spring waters in warmer months.
• DeLand (30 min) – Explore a vibrant college town with museums, shopping, and outdoor murals.
• Wekiva Springs State Park (20–25 min) – Paddle scenic rivers, swim in refreshing springs, and hike forested trails.
• Lake Mary (15 min) – Enjoy upscale dining, shopping, and events in this growing suburban hub.
• Oviedo (20 min) – Stroll historic downtown streets, visit local farms, and spot the famous free-roaming chickens!
• Orlando (25–30 min) – Head south for world-famous theme parks, shopping, and major cultural attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Question: Where is Sanford located, and what is it known for?
• Answer: Sanford is a sunny city and the seat of Florida’s Seminole County, known as a water-sport enthusiasts’ paradise. It is situated halfway between Daytona Beach and Orlando, close to Lake Monroe and the St. Johns River.
• Question: What attractions can visitors find in Sanford?
• Answer: The city is home to beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings, a charming waterfront with quaint boutique stores, bustling cafés and restaurants, and lovely water views.
• Question: What outdoor activities are popular in Sanford?
• Answer: Sanford is a popular spot for world-class fishing, all kinds of water-sports, and enjoying the great outdoors.

Best Time to Visit Sanford, Florida

• March to May – Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, perfect for exploring historic downtown.
• June to August – Warm summer weather, great for boating, fishing, and outdoor activities.
• September to November – Mild weather, ideal for visiting local festivals and nature parks.
• December to February – Cooler temperatures, perfect for exploring museums and waterfront walks.
• Late March – Best time for spring blooms and enjoying outdoor events.

Getting to Sanford, Florida

• By Air
  • Fly into Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), just 5 miles from downtown.
  • Major airlines offer domestic and some international flights.
• By Car
  • Drive from Orlando in about 30 minutes via I-4 East.
  • Accessible from Daytona Beach in about 45 minutes.
• By Train
  • Amtrak Auto Train station in Sanford offers direct service from Virginia.
• By Bus
  • Bus services connect Sanford to Orlando and surrounding areas.

Hotels in Sanford, Florida

• Comfort Inn & Suites Orlando North – Modern hotel with free breakfast and easy highway access.
• Park Place Inn and Cottages – Quaint, charming inn offering cozy accommodations near historic downtown.
• Best Western Plus Sanford Airport – Convenient option with free shuttle service to Sanford Airport.

Unique Attractions

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Sanford is during the fall through spring (October–April) when cooler temperatures make it perfect for riverwalk strolls, outdoor festivals, and dining al fresco along the waterfront.

Sanford, FL Highlights:

• Historic Downtown Sanford: Wander cobblestone streets lined with boutiques, cafés, breweries, and colorful murals.
• Lake Monroe: Enjoy boating, fishing, and scenic views along this beautiful St. Johns River lakefront.
• Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens: Visit hundreds of animals, zipline through the trees, and explore lush gardens.
• Sanford RiverWalk: Walk, bike, or jog along the picturesque 5-mile trail hugging Lake Monroe’s shoreline.
• Sanford Museum: Discover local history from the city’s early days through vintage photographs and memorabilia.

Plan Your Trip