Itinerary for 2 day trip to Central Florida

Central Florida is a fantastic place to explore, especially if you’re looking to enjoy some fresh citrus and the beautiful scenery of orange groves. Here’s a delightful 2-day itinerary for you, focusing on the east of Orlando and including some fun citrus-picking experiences!

Day 1: Citrus Picking and Scenic Exploration

Morning:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café in Orlando. I recommend trying a spot like for some delicious pancakes or a hearty omelet to fuel your day.
Head to a nearby orange grove! One great option is in Merritt Island. It’s about a 45-minute drive from Orlando. They offer U-Pick citrus experiences, and you can pick your own oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines depending on the season. Make sure to check their picking schedule before you go!

Midday:

After picking your citrus, enjoy a picnic lunch right there in the grove or at a nearby park. You can pack some sandwiches or grab a quick bite from a local deli.
Explore the area! After lunch, take a short drive to the . It’s a beautiful spot for a leisurely walk or a drive through the refuge. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, including birds and maybe even some alligators!

Afternoon:

Head over to (about a 30-minute drive from Merritt Island). Spend some time relaxing on the beach, taking a stroll along the shore, or even trying out some water sports if you’re feeling adventurous!

Evening:

For dinner, check out . There are several restaurants with ocean views where you can enjoy fresh seafood. is a great choice for a casual yet delicious meal.
If you’re up for it, take a sunset walk along the pier. The views are stunning, and it’s a perfect way to end your first day!

Day 2: More Citrus and Local Culture

Morning:

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel or a local café. If you’re still in , is a great spot for a beachy breakfast.
After breakfast, head to Dunnellon to visit (about an hour’s drive from ). While they are known for blueberries, they also have citrus trees and offer U-Pick experiences. It’s a charming farm with a lovely atmosphere!

Midday:

Enjoy picking some more citrus and maybe even some blueberries if they’re in season.
For lunch, check out a local eatery in Dunnellon. is a fun spot with a laid-back vibe and tasty options.

Afternoon:

After lunch, take a scenic drive to , a quaint town known for its antique shops and beautiful lakes. It’s about a 45-minute drive from Dunnellon. Spend some time exploring the shops, and don’t forget to check out the local art galleries!
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider taking a boat tour on . It’s a lovely way to see the area and relax on the water.

Evening:

For your final dinner, head to in . It’s a charming restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and a diverse menu.
After dinner, take a stroll around the town to soak in the charming ambiance. If you’re lucky, you might catch some live music or a local event happening in the area!

And there you have it! A delightful 2-day itinerary filled with citrus picking, beautiful scenery, and local culture. Enjoy your trip to Central Florida, and don’t forget to bring back some fresh citrus to enjoy at home! 🍊🌞