Family-Friendly Day Trip from Orlando: Exploring Blue Springs State Park

Day 1: Nature and Wildlife Adventure

Orlando to Blue Springs State Park, Florida on June 28, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Keke's Breakfast Cafe

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Keke's, famous for its kid-friendly menu and fresh Florida flavors, open from 7am, perfect to fuel up before the day trip.
USD15, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Blue Springs State Park

Travel 40 miles northeast from Orlando to Blue Springs State Park, known for its crystal-clear waters and manatee sightings during winter but enjoyable year-round for hiking and swimming.
USD6 per vehicle, 1h0m

9:30am

Explore Blue Springs State Park

Spend the morning hiking the easy trails, seeing wildlife, and renting a canoe or kayak to enjoy the spring waters. The park opens at 8am and closes at 8pm.
USD6 vehicle entry; canoe/kayak rentals approx. USD20/hour, 3h0m

12:30pm

Picnic Lunch in the Park

Enjoy a family picnic at the shaded picnic areas. Bring packed sandwiches and snacks or pick up takeout from a nearby deli before arrival for a casual and scenic lunch.
USD20 (estimated for packed lunch), 1h0m

1:30pm

Nature Center Visit and Junior Ranger Program

Visit the park’s Nature Center where kids can learn about local flora and fauna and participate in the Junior Ranger program, making education fun and interactive.
Free with park entry, 1h0m

2:30pm

Swimming in the designated areas

Cool off with a swim in designated swimming areas, safe and supervised spots ideal for kids to enjoy the clear spring waters.
Included in park entry, 1h0m

3:30pm

Drive back to Orlando

Return drive to Orlando to relax and freshen up before dinner.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at The Ravenous Pig

Dine at The Ravenous Pig, a family-friendly gastropub in Orlando offering a diverse menu with options for kids and adults. Open from 5pm.
USD35 per person, 1h30m
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