Orlando, Florida — Several affordable road trips within a day’s drive of Orlando offer spring break escapes for students attending the University of Central Florida and travelers across Central Florida.
With more than 60,000 students enrolled at the University of Central Florida, nearby destinations throughout the state provide travel opportunities that often require only a few hours on the road, according to regional tourism agencies.
One of the most popular drives heads east to Cocoa Beach, located along Florida’s Space Coast. The beach community features fishing piers, surf spots and views of rocket launch facilities near Cape Canaveral.
Students also frequently travel northeast to St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest continuously occupied European-established city. Visitors explore cobblestone streets, waterfront parks and historic landmarks including Castillo de San Marcos National Monument.
Another common getaway is Blue Spring State Park near Orange City. The park is known for its clear freshwater spring, kayaking routes along the St. Johns River and seasonal wildlife viewing areas.
Travelers looking for Gulf Coast beaches often head west to Clearwater Beach, where white sand and waterfront parks line the shores of the Gulf of Mexico.
Farther south, Everglades National Park offers wetlands, wildlife viewing and scenic drives through one of the largest protected subtropical ecosystems in the United States.
Orlando’s location in Central Florida places Atlantic beaches, freshwater springs and Gulf Coast destinations within reach of a manageable road trip.
For younger travelers and college students balancing tight budgets, these destinations provide opportunities to explore Florida while staying within driving distance of the UCF campus.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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