places to visit from dallas to orlando

Family Road Trips from Dallas: Easy RV Route to Orlando

• Introduction to Family Road Trips from Dallas to Disney

Embarking on family road trips from Dallas is an exciting way to discover the diversity of the United States. The journey from Dallas, Texas to Orlando, Florida offers a fantastic opportunity to explore captivating destinations, savor scenic routes, and create unforgettable memories. It was truly one of the best family road trips from Dallas we have ever taken. In this blog post, we will outline an incredible route for your RV adventure, highlighting noteworthy stops and RV parks along the way. From the lively city of Dallas, Texas to the enchanting magic of Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, get ready for an epic journey!

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Ruston, Louisiana

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When planning family road trips from Dallas to Disney, choosing the right highway route is crucial to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. You will leave Dallas heading east on I-20. Once you get to Shreveport, you have two primary options: continue taking I-20 east towards Jackson, Mississippi or heading south on I-49 towards Lafayette. Both routes will lead you to I-10 in Mobile, Alabama. You will continue on I-10 until Live Oak, Florida where you will take 75 south to Orlando. Each route offers its own unique attractions and scenery, allowing you to tailor your road trip experience to your preferences. Let’s explore these highway route options in more detail.

Family Road Trips From Dallas to Disney Option 1: I-20 East towards Jackson, Mississippi

Continuing on I-20 East from Dallas, Texas, towards Jackson, Mississippi, offers a scenic drive through charming towns and picturesque countryside. Here are some highlights along the I-20 route to Orlando:

This charming Louisiana city offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Explore the beautiful gardens and hiking trails at the Louisiana Tech University Arboretum or learn about the area’s railroad history at the Historic Ruston Fire Station Museum.

As you approach the Mississippi River, consider a detour to Vicksburg. Here you can visit the Vicksburg National Military Park to learn about the Civil War battles that took place here or take a riverboat cruise along the Mississippi River.

As you approach Mississippi’s capital city of Jackson consider taking a stroll through the Mississippi Museum of Art, visit the Mississippi State Capitol, or explore the historic Fondren neighborhood, known for its artsy vibe and local shops.

Click here to get your own Jackson, Mississippi scavenger hunt.

After Jackson, you can make the choice to travel southeast towards Hattiesburg or continuing on I-20 to Meridian.

Located in the eastern part of the state, Meridian offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved historic district. Visit the Mississippi Industrial Heritage Museum, stroll along the historic downtown streets, or explore the lovely parks and trails in the area.

If you go southeast from Jackson, make a stop in Hattiesburg. Visit the Hattiesburg Zoo, explore the trails of Longleaf Trace, or discover the Hattiesburg Historic Neighborhood District.

Family Road Trips From Dallas to Disney Option 2: I-49 South towards Lafayette, Louisiana 

If you decide to head south on I-49 towards Lafayette, you’ll experience a different side of Louisiana. This route showcases the state’s Cajun culture, mouthwatering cuisine, and breathtaking natural charm. Here are some notable stops along the way:

In central Louisiana’s city of Alexandria explore the Alexandria Museum of Art or enjoy a walk along the scenic Red River.

Get your cajun on in Lafayette with their Zydeco music scene. Home of the UL Lafayette Ragin’ Cajuns this city is renowned for it’s culinary delights. Visit the Acadian Cultural Center to learn about the area’s French heritage or enjoy a traditional dance at a local Cajun dancehall. The lively downtown district, has art galleries, live music venues, and a variety of restaurants serving delicious Cajun and Creole dishes.

Known as the “Crawfish Capital of the World,” Breaux Bridge is a delightful town that epitomizes Cajun culture. Indulge in authentic Cajun cuisine at one of the local restaurants or take a swamp tour to discover the unique ecosystem of the Atchafalaya Basin.

Baton Rouge is Louisiana’s capital city and home of the LSU Tigers. Visit the stately Louisiana State Capitol, explore the historic neighborhoods, or take a tour of the Old State Capitol , known for its stunning Gothic architecture. 

Click here for more Baton Rouge tours and scavenger hunts.

Located in the heart of Tangipahoa Parish, Hammond is a charming city known for its arts scene. Visit the Tangipahoa African American Heritage Museum and explore the quaint downtown area, filled with unique shops and local eateries.

Positioned on the northeastern shores of Lake Pontchartrain, Slidell is a gateway to the New Orleans metropolitan area. Take a stroll along the Bayou Bonfouca or explore the nearby Honey Island Swamp, known for its diverse wildlife and scenic allure. 

Click here to schedule your Honey Island Swamp tour ,

Just across the state line, Gulfport offers a stunning coastal experience along the Gulf of Mexico. Enjoy the stunning sandy beaches, try your luck at the casinos, or explore the dining and entertainment scene.

When deciding between these two highway routes, consider your preferences and the time you have available for the road trip. If you have a specific interest in history and outdoor activities, the I-20 route may be more suitable. However, if you’re a food lover or want to experience the unique Cajun heritage, the I-49 route is the perfect choice. Ultimately, both routes have their own merits, and you can even incorporate elements of both by selecting different routes for the outbound and return journeys. 

Our Route Choice For Family Road Trips From Dallas to Disney

Every trip I plan, I plug my route into the Roadtrippers app. I am not normally a paid app kind of girl, but I loved this one so much and it was only $30 for the entire year! What makes the app unique is all the different points of interest that can be turn on along a route. Users can toggle on and off the following categories: hotels, things to do, camping and RV, outdoors, points of interest, and amusement and nightlife. Each one of those categories also contains several sub categories. Additionally, the app calculates the trip’s estimated gas expense and has some built in tours for road trip inspiration.

Recently, Roadtrippers launched RV friendly GPS Navigation , a highly requested feature that puts BOTH trip/route planning and RV safe navigation into a single app experience. This now works in conjunction with Apple Carplay, another highly requested feature. They also have a new  summer content series , and a partnership with Pilot Flying J to extend a highly-coveted  fuel discount to Roadtrippers Plus members .

If you would like to check out the Roadtrippers app at a discount,  use this link  and plugin this coupon code:  BTR5QTP to   get $5 off!

Our deciding factor for choosing the Jackson route over the Lafayette route was the Baton Rouge traffic. We drove through Baton Rouge with the RV on previous trips and found that driving in the Baton Rouge traffic was not worth it for us.

After determining our route, we left Dallas about 4:00 pm and headed towards Shreveport. Our biggest regret was leaving North Texas just in time to hit the 5:00 Dallas traffic. This added a solid hour to our travel time!

Stop #1 Buc-ees Terrell, Texas

We travel to my hometown of Shreveport often. Our favorite place for a rest stop in East Texas is Buc-ees in Terrell at HWY 80 and I-20. What we love most about this Buc-ees is that there is always plenty of space to park or fill up the RV and the chopped brisket BBQ sandwiches and fudge are to die for!

We always get snacks from Buc-ees, but rarely purchase merchandise because we are always in a hurry to get back on the road. I was excited to recently find their goods being sold online! Click below to get rare Buc-ees treasures that have been discontinued or are difficult to find.

Stop #2 Shreveport, Louisiana

Three and a half hours from Downtown Dallas, Shreveport offers an excellent jumping off point for your journey. Check out the Louisiana State Exhibit Museum or indulge in some gaming excitement at one of the many casinos on the river walk. Don’t miss a visit to the Louisiana Boardwalk, a premier shopping and dining destination or the East Bank Entertainment District (both next door in Bossier City). For RV accommodations, check out  Shreveport North / Caddo Lake Area KOA  or Shreveport-Bossier KOA, both offering convenient amenities for a comfortable stay. We simply mooch dock in my parent’s driveway. 

Click here to access fun Shreveport scavenger hunts.

Stop #3 Wendy Oaks RV Resort, Florence, MS 

Electing to spend some quality family time in Shreveport, meant choosing a shorter distance for our Friday evening drive. Next on our itinerary was Wendy Oaks RV Resort in Florence, Mississippi, just south of Jackson. This small picturesque resort provides a serene and relaxing atmosphere. We enjoyed the tranquil, secluded resort while taking advantage of amenities such as spacious RV sites, an 8-acre lake, and recreational activities like fishing and boating. We really enjoyed the complimentary peddle boats.

Wendy Oaks RV Resort offered the perfect opportunity to unwind and recharge before continuing our journey. If you find yourself passing through Jackson, this is a great place to stop. This resort is lovely and serene with the friendliness people around. The owner greets every visitor personally, showing you to your site, and making sure you have everything you need for the best stay possible. I can’t say enough about their hospitality. My only regret is not being able to stay longer!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Champagne On Deck | RV Camping (@monicachampagne)

• You can book a paved pull-through for easy in and out or a back-in waterfront site overlooking the well-stocked fishing lake.
• Is is easy to access on the north bound side, but has a slightly tricky u-turn when traveling south bound.
• They have recently upgraded wifi throughout park.

Address: 4160 US 49, Florence, MS 39073

Phone: (601) 845-2267

Website:  https://www.wendyoaksrvresort.com/

Stop #4 Ragan’s Family Campground, Madison, Florida

Located in Madison, Florida and just a three hour drive from Disney, Ragan’s Family Campground offers a fun and welcoming ambiance for RV enthusiasts. This large family-owned campground is known for its hospitality and well-maintained facilities. Explore the area by hiking, biking, or cruising the ATV trails or enjoy a refreshing swim in the swimming pool.

Our kids lost their minds when we pulled in and were welcomed by the water park equip with a gigantic slide and lazy river. There is so much to do here. It was definitely a change of pace from the quiet, peaceful stay the night before at Wendy Oaks. This campground is full of energy! Music, campsite dancing, and karaoke kept the party going all weekend. My kids loved all the amenities and activities so we opted to stay two nights at this location. The best part is that they are already asking to go back!

Activities include:

• Water Slide
• Sand Volleyball
• Playgrounds
• Bounce House/Pad
• Bass Fishing
• Train Rides
• Golf Cart Friendly
• Organized crafts and activities

Address:1051 SW Old St. Augustine Road Madison Fl 32340 I-10 & Exit 258

Phone: (850) 973-8269

Website:  https://ragansfamilycampground.com/

Stop #5 Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort 

Finally, the culmination of our family roadtrip from Dallas to Disney awaited us at the Fort Wilderness Resort. As an official Walt Disney World Resort, this enchanting campground seamlessly combines the joys of camping with the magic of Disney. It is the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors while being just a short distance from the theme parks.

Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort offers a range of accommodation options, including full-hookup campsites, tent sites, and cozy cabins. The campsites provide ample space for RVs of all sizes, with amenities like water, electricity, picnic tables, and grills. If you prefer a more luxurious experience, the cabins offer a rustic yet comfortable setting, complete with modern conveniences and delightful Disney theming.

One of the highlights of staying at Fort Wilderness is the wealth of recreational activities available. Explore the sprawling grounds on bike, golf cart, or while horseback riding, go fishing in the lakes, or take a scenic boat ride. The resort also features two sparkling swimming pools, sand volleyball courts, pickle ball courts a lively nightly campfire with sing-alongs and movies, food trucks, and the beloved Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue dinner show, offering a delightful blend of entertainment and delicious food.

When you’re ready to experience the magic of Walt Disney World, complimentary transportation is available to all the theme parks and Disney Springs. Enjoy the thrills of the Magic Kingdom, the cultural wonders of Epcot, the wild adventures of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and the movie magic of Disney’s Hollywood Studios. With a variety of attractions, shows, and dining options, Walt Disney World offers something for everyone in the family.

• A golf cart is highly recommended for this massive resort. You can rent onsite or use a third party company. We saved money by using Tee Time Golf Rentals and Sales . Mention  ChampagneOnDeck.com  to receive a discount on your rental.
• Planning a Disney vacation can be cumbersome. Use a travel agent that specialized in booking Disney vacations. We used  KayLynn Hawkins  with  Northcutt Travel Agency  to book ours and really appreciated having a knowledgable guide. Give KayLynn a call at (512) 749-7950 to start planning your trip!
• If you plan to visit any parks, schedule campsite rest days in between park days. There is so much to do at this campground that you will want to be sure and have time to explore it all.

Address: 4510 North Fort Wilderness Trail Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830-8415

Phone: (407) 824-2900

Website:  disneyworld.disney.go.com

Stop #6 Gulf Shores RV Resort in Gulf Shores, Alabama

When it was time for our Disney fun to end, we tackled our longest leg of the trip by driving all the way to Gulf Shores, Alabama. Here we called The Gulf Shores RV Resort home for the week. Our entire family had the best time camping here. This luxury RV resort was built in 2022. Everything is new and clean. All of the RV sites are paved and level, the pool and hot tub are pristine. The comfort stations are immaculate. They have four fishing ponds, two pickle ball courts, and a huge tire swing. Best of all, they are only a short drive to the beach! It is truly one of the best places for RV camping in Gulf Shores.

• If you are in town for a Youth Baseball tournament, this campground is perfectly situated near several sports complexes.
• This campground is growing. Currently, phase 1 is complete. They will be adding additional RV spots in phase 2 and a tiny home community in phase 3!

The Gulf Coast RV Resort is an RVC property. This was our second time staying at one of their resorts. Both stays exceeded our expectations. The video below highlights our cabin stay at their Hot Springs, Arkansas property, Catherine’s Landing .

Address: 18717 Barefoot Way Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Phone: (251) 244-1015

Website:  rvcoutdoors.com

Stop #7 Jellystone Park Yogi On The Lake in Pelahatchie, MS

This next stop on our way home was a little out of our way, but totally worth it! In an effort to give our kids one last hurrah, we stayed at the Jellystone Park in the small town of Pelahatchie, Mississippi, also known as Yogi On The Lake. This beloved campground is an ideal destination for kids and adults alike. With themed activities and amenities like water slides, tennis courts, water wars, a bounce pad, laser tag, and a large no wake lake for swimming and fishing, Jellystone Park offers endless fun and entertainment. Relax in the shade of towering trees at your RV site or rent a cabin for a unique experience. 

• Renting one of their golf carts is highly recommended. This place is enormous with a lot of hills.
• Download the Jellystone app in advance so that you are aware of activities such as costume contests, glow nights, and daily themes.

Address: 143 Campground Rd, Pelahatchie, MS 39145

Phone: (601) 854-6621

Website:  https://www.jellystonems.com/

Stop #8 Shreveport, Louisiana

Our final stop before reaching home in the Lone Star state was one more visit with the family in Shreveport, Louisiana.

Stop #9 Home Sweet Home in Dallas, Texas

We left Shreveport late afternoon to head back to Dallas. This time we made sure that the DFW 5:00 traffic would have dissipated by our arrival time.

If you are not traveling with your own RV, booking accommodations at each leg of the trip is a must. Cheap O Air can help you find the best prices on Hotels, Airfare, and Transportation.

As you can see from our itinerary above, we took our time. Our total road trip lasted 19 days. Planning a whole family road trip from Dallas to Disney provides an incredible opportunity to create lasting memories . It was a thrilling adventure filled with diverse landscapes, captivating towns, and world-renowned attractions. Whether you choose the I-20 route towards Jackson or the I-49 route towards Lafayette, you’ll encounter unique experiences and create cherished memories along the way. Your family road trip from Dallas to Disney is sure to be an unforgettable journey filled with adventure, laughter, and the joy of exploring new horizons.

We love sharing family road trips from Dallas travel inspiration. I invite you to check out some of our other  blogs posts  like  30 Epic Kids Activities in San Antonio ,  Plan a Trip to Hot Springs, Arkansas: 4-Day Itinerary for a Sensational Vacation , and  How to Camp in Style at Broken Bow, Oklahoma . We also have posts focusing on weekend trips from the Dallas-Fort Worth area such as  32 Best Kids’ Things to in Ardmore, Oklahoma  with Oklahoma City, Turner Falls, and Lake Texoma highlights and  more . Another thing worth checking out is our YouTube channel where you can see our trips in action and video footage of each campsite. Like this long weekend  video of Dinosaur World  in Glen Rose, Texas close to Dinosaur Valley State Park.

Let’s Connect

Pin this post for easy access as you plan your own family road trips from Dallas.

Follow my Facebook Page, “ Champagne On Deck Finds It ” or join our  Facebook community  group where I post camper related deals. I share the purchases we continue to make for our own camping trips and any other online deals that I find for the outdoor enthusiasts. You can even request items and I will do the deal searching for you! I love it.

Follow me on Instagram  and subscribe to my blog below. This way you won’t miss any of our travel adventures to inspire your own future road trips.

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Orlando to Dallas drive

Orlando to dallas road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Orlando to Dallas. If you're planning a road trip to Dallas, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Traveling with a dog or cat? Find pet-friendly stops . Camping along the way? Search for RV campgrounds . Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am  start in Orlando drive for about 2 hours

11:49 am   Gainesville stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:49 pm drive for about 2.5 hours

3:15 pm   Tallahassee stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:15 pm drive for about 2.5 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 6.5 hours find more stops

10:00 am  leave from Niceville drive for about 3.5 hours

1:43 pm   Laurel (Mississippi) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 2:43 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

day 2 driving ≈ 5 hours find more stops

10:00 am  leave from Jackson (Mississippi) drive for about 3.5 hours

1:24 pm   Shreveport stay for about 1 hour and leave at 2:24 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

3:52 pm   Tyler stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:52 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

6:23 pm  arrive in Dallas eat at Pecan Lodge stay at Hotel Zaza Dallas

day 3 driving ≈ 6.5 hours find more stops

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Gainesville   (13 answers) Tallahassee   (15 answers)     questions about Tallahassee:         Best free things to do in Tallahassee?         Pet friendly hotel Niceville   (3 answers) Laurel (Mississippi)   (2 answers)     questions about Laurel (Mississippi):         things to do Jackson (Mississippi)   (16 answers)     questions about Jackson (Mississippi):         What's going down in Jackson, MS for New Years Eve? Shreveport   (20 answers)     R.W. Norton Art Gallery   (2 mentions)     questions about Shreveport:         Best free things to do in Shreveport? Tyler   (4 answers)

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Alternate routes from Dallas to Orlando

Dallas to Orlando via I-20 and I-10 passing through Shreveport, LA

Dallas to Orlando via I-10 passing through Houston, TX

Dallas to Orlando via I-10 and I-20 passing through Jacksonville, FL

Dallas to Orlando via I-20 passing through Montgomery, AL

The Best Road Trips to Take from Orlando, Florida

Thanks to Orlando’s central location in the heart of Florida, it’s easy to take a road trip almost anywhere in the Sunshine State on just one or two tanks of gas. A short drive to the ocean in three directions and surrounded by history, “The City Beautiful” is an ideal starting point for a fun excursion. From beautiful state parks and national treasures to contemporary sights and modern marvels, here we present our list of the best road trips to take from Orlando , Florida.

From orlando to st. augustine.

The drive to St. Augustine is just shy of two hours, but it’s well worth it. The “Nation’s Oldest City” is home to several well-preserved historical sites, including several forts and the beautiful Flagler College. Ghost enthusiasts will find many opportunities to seek out spirits in graveyards, throughout downtown, and a supposedly haunted lighthouse, and the beaches are absolutely gorgeous.

Orlando to St. Augustine, FL, USA

One of the best road trips to take from Orlando is to the Everglades National Park , a 1.5-million-acre, world-famous nature preserve known as “The River of Grass.” This icon of Florida is about a four-hour drive from Orlando and offers everything from saltwater marshes and mangrove swamps to dry pine woods that are home to many birds and animals. When you get there, leave your car to take an airboat tour , rent a kayak, or walk along a raised boardwalk to see the wetlands preserve properly.

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Orlando to Everglades National Park, FL, USA

From Orlando to Cape Canaveral

A road trip to the John F. Kennedy Space Center , the primary launch center of spacecraft for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), is a must-do while you’re in Orlando. The Kennedy Space Center lies in Cape Canaveral, which is about an hour from Orlando, and offers great exhibits of NASA’s history and achievements.

Orlando to Cape Canaveral, FL, USA

Visit Crystal River and Three Sisters Springs

For something entirely different from the hustle and bustle of Orlando, take a quick road trip to Crystal River and Three Sisters Springs . These natural bodies of water are famous for spotting lots of wildlife, especially manatees that congregate in the warm water during the winter months. It’s the only place in America where you can legally enter the water with the gentle “sea cows,” and it will only take about 1.5 hours to get there.

Orlando to Crystal River, FL, USA

From Orlando to St. Petersburg

A two-hour road trip from Orlando to St. Petersburg will take you to one of the best modern art museums in the country: the Salvador Dalí Museum . It houses the biggest collection of Dalí’s works outside of Europe, and you’ll appreciate the museum’s architecture.

Orlando to St. Petersburg, FL, USA

Make the trip to the Florida Keys

The ultimate Florida road trip from Orlando is to the Florida Keys ; it’s a 4.5-hour drive that will take you to the southern tip of the Sunshine State. Set aside some time to explore Miami on your way south to make it a multi-city road trip.

Orlando to the Florida Keys, FL, USA

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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A few things to bear in mind:

1. The weather in the winter has been crazy in the U.S. recently, even in the south, which is where you will be. There have actually been snowfalls in the south in recent years.

2. The south is not always the most open-minded area of the country, even if you are on the interstates, and the general infrastructure is limited too areas farther north, east, or west.

This is an edit to my earlier posted reply, sorry. The way that that post is currently worded for point #2 does not make sense. Point #2 should have said something more like this:

If your car broke down in "the deep south" (once you are over in Mississippi and Alabama) then you might face outright sneering for being foreigners or a lot of expenses (with limited choices) and lots of time wasted before you were able to be back on the road.

This is not to say that there are not a lot of great, upstanding, go-the-extra-mile folks in "the deep south" too, because /there are/ plenty of those folks and I have been blessed to spend time with them or be hosted by them. Some of the most selfless generosity and warm hospitality that you could experience in the USA is within "the deep south", but there are also expansive volumes of oral, written, videotaped, and legislative histories to show that ignorance, racism, and fear of the unfamiliar have often ruled the days in the deep south.

With the itinerary that I suggested ( Dallas to Shreveport by bus, Shreveport to Jackson by bus, and Jackson to Orlando by plane ) you would be able to be hosted, in a way, for every stretch of the trip. Plus, you'd be able to have some great conversations with people on the buses, and thus you'd be able to learn about some of the best places to visit and best restaurants and diners to eat in once you get to each of your destinations. Thank you.

That would not be my advice at all.

Using buses takes 3 to 4 times as long as driving. Four plane tickets are going to cost at least $800.

I-10 is a the major east west lifeline of the country. The cities and places along it thrive on visitors, it is their lifeblood. I would not hesitate in the least to travel it. You will be welcomed in many, many places. It is possible to run into some bad weather, but highly unlikely it would stop your travel. I-10 is very far south.

The best way to plan for a trip is to think of your interests. I like antiques, art, live music, food, and bars. So I love Lafayette and New Orleans . You mentioned you had an eight year old with you. If he/she is interested at all in space, than I would think visiting NASA in Houston would be a must. The beach at Gulfport, Biloxi or Pensacola is great. Even if it is to cold to swim, it may be fun to get your feet wet and enjoy a walk.

If you'll focus on your interests, visit specific forums, and ask specific questions, I think you'll find lots of helpful information.

As for weather, while it is true that the random ice/snow storm may hit Dallas, it is pretty rare and virtually unheard of in New Orleans , the Gulf Coast and Florida.

One absolute high light of the South is New Orleans - it is one of the most interesting cities in the South and your 8 year old should not miss having a beignet at Cafe du Monde (and neither should y'all) at Jackson Square in New Orleans. You can ride trolley cars to the New Orleans zoo and simply enjoy one of the great cities of the South...

While out of the way, Austin and San Antonio Texas are both excellent tourist cities with lots of activities. Austin has more fun bars, restaurants and just funky places than any city in Texas (along with GREAT Texas barbecue) while San Antonio has the Alamo , the riverwalk and fantastic Tex-Mex food. Both are out of the way to Florida and if you have limited time, I would skip them on the way to Orlando ...

I just recently drove from New Orleans to Mobile, AL, and had zero problems whatsover. The infrastructure is excellent (roads are fantastic with ample opportunity to get gas, food, etc.). Downtown Mobile, Alabama, while not large, is a pretty cute town with a gorgeous Catholic church and I had a fantastic meal at Wintzell's Oyster House, a landmark on Dauphin Street in Mobile. Biloxi, MS, which is on the way from New Orleans to Mobile, has several large gambling casinos right on the beach if you want to wager some money (I stayed at the Beau Rivage, which is a HUGE and fairly nice hotel/casino) and saw lots and lots of families.

Vicksburg Mississippi has a great Civil War battlefield tour and plently of wide open spaces for an 8 year old to run around, jump and play and the city itself has lots of old Southern charm. I did that when I was 8 years old and loved it.

Houston is also a very large and interesting city that is more on the way if you stop in New Orleans. Tons of things to do there with excellent food of every kind and type.

If you drive or go to Shreveport, you will find it heavily dominated by gambling casinos as the State of Texas does not allow casino's so LOTS of Texans make the drive to Shreveport which is in Louisiana right on the border. Shreveport is NOT on or near the Gulf Coast and does not have the food reputation of New Orleans, Dallas or Houston for that matter....

Finally, I would respectfully disagree with anyone who indicated that the South has unfriendly or "sneering" people. It is my experience over decades of travel throughout the South that you will instead find friendly, genteel and some of the most hospitable people in the U.S. I absolutely love the food, people and scenery in the South and I absolutely think you will have a fantastic trip!

This post has been removed at the author's request.

Taking I-10 the distance from San Antonio or Houston into Florida is a perfect trip to experience the Gulf Coast areas, the wonderful foods of the south, as well as the music (Zydeco) and swamplands of Louisiana - the amazing Atchafalaya Basin is the largest swamp in the U.S. and you will cross directly over it as you drive I-10 between Lafayette and Baton Rouge.

Stop for lunch in Lafayette before heading on to New Orleans for a night’s stay. If you have time as you leave Baton Rouge, detour I-10 for a drive along the old River Road to see generations old, white columned mansions, Spanish moss dripping from hundred year old oak trees and other sites dating back to the 19th century. Driving east, the white sand beaches of Mississippi, Alabama and the NW Florida panhandle are not to be missed - plan to spend a day/night along the FL coast ( Destin is nice, crowded).

As you would with any travel or even just a local outing, be aware and respectful of your surroundings and if it's uncomfortable, move on down the road. :) That said, you might be surprised at the variety of accents and languages you hear along the way. Enjoy your trip through our SE United States !

You might want to take a quick look at the following two things to help in your logistics:

1. If you go to http://www.marriott.com they have a link for "explore and plan". Once you are directed to the new page, you could scroll down to "destinations" and click the link for "US". It will then provide you with a number of cities from which to choose for finding out various pieces of information, nearby lodgings, current climate, etcetera.

2. If you go to http://www.ihg.com you will see the little "box area" for making reservations. Within it there is a link that says something like "see hotels along a route". If you click that, it will enable you to type in a starting point and ending point and then see the hotels along the way. You can even decide a radius of miles to check around the route.

Happy travels!

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Dallas to Orlando Flights

Whether you’re looking for a grand adventure or just want to get away for a last-minute break, flights from Dallas to Orlando offer the perfect respite. Not only does exploring Orlando provide the chance to make some magical memories, dip into delectable dishes, and tour the local landmarks, but the cheap airfare means you won’t bust your budget. So no matter whether your ideal itinerary involves flying one way, non-stop, or round trip, you’re bound to find flights that match your schedule on Expedia, and at prices that won’t shock your wallet.

Bagging a cheap flight from Dallas to Orlando may mean more dollars to spend on for one-of-a-kind souvenirs when you arrive, but it doesn’t mean you have to skimp on your travel experience, as Expedia offers a sizzling selection of cheap airlines that’ll put you in your happy place on their planes, whether that’s getting lost in a hair-raising airport thriller, dreaming on the passing landscape over a glass of bubbly, or jotting down your vacation bucket list at 38,000 feet. There’s also bound to be plenty of opportunities to snap a few photos of the high life that will make your friends green with envy. After all, enjoying the journey is part of the fun.

With so many affordable flights and so many wonderful adventures awaiting you, there’s no reason to put off booking a fantastic flight from DFW to MCO today. So don’t leave it to the last minute to make your dream trip a reality: pack your bags with your go-to travel accessories, put together your list of must-see attractions and can’t-miss activities, and get ready to broaden your horizons – with Expedia, the wonders of Orlando are only a plane trip away. Book your travel arrangements with us today!

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19 Best Weekend Getaways from Dallas (Fun Road Trip Ideas!)

Planning a quick escape from the city and looking for the best weekend getaways from Dallas?

From small towns to state parks to funky cities, we’ve rounded up the best road trips from Dallas (or Fort Worth) here!

With one exception, each of these Dallas weekend getaway ideas is located between 3 and 8 hours from Dallas, making these destinations ideal for trips that last 1-3 nights away (if you’re looking for destinations a bit closer to Dallas, check out our guide to the best day trips from Dallas here ).

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a weekend full of family memories, an adventure with friends, or even a solo escape, one of these weekend getaways from Dallas is no doubt right for you.

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Best Cities for Weekend Getaways from Dallas

The capital of Texas and self-proclaimed Live Music Capital of the World is the perfect weekend trip from Dallas for those looking to keep things just a little weird.

Take a dip in one of Austin’s many nearby natural swimming holes , go hunting for street art on South Congress, tour the Texas State Capitol Building, watch the sunset at Mount Bonnell, escape to the Texas Hill Country for the day, and of course enjoy plenty of nightlife!

With a huge variety of fun things to do, Austin is perfect for travelers looking for a great mix of city fun and outdoor adventure.

Driving Distance from Dallas

New Orleans, LA

Featuring some of the best food, music, and culture in all of the country, having a city as incredible as NOLA reachable as a road trip from Dallas is definitely something to take advantage of!

While you’re there, be sure to enjoy Bourbon Street, but get off of it, as well: NOLA is more than just its incredible partying (though the partying does indeed live up to the legends).

Consider visiting the Garden District, taking a ghost tour, visiting the nearby bayou, taking a steamboat cruise, and of course, eating plenty of excellent food, from po’boys to beignets, during the course of your weekend getaway in New Orleans .

7 hours, 45 minutes.

San Antonio, TX

As the most-visited city in all of Texas, San Antonio knows how to show visitors a good time, and it is absolutely one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas!

Be sure to visit the famous Alamo, as well as the rest of the San Antonio Missions.

All five missions, including the Alamo, are recognized together as a UNESCO World Heritage Site–the only UNESCO site that exists in Texas!

You’ll also want to sample the Riverwalk, of course, as well as visit the San Fernando Cathedral, go shopping at the Historic Market Square and in La Villita, and visit one of San Antonio’s incredible museums.

When driving from Dallas to San Antonio , you’ll also find plenty to do along the way–if you have time, consider adding a pitstop in Waco or Austin to your trip!

Oklahoma City, OK

Oklahoma City may not be what you immediately think of when considering getting away from Dallas for a weekend, but this smaller city to the north offers a surprising number of things to see and do!

Consider visiting the Bricktown entertainment district, checking out the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, strolling through the beautiful Myriad Botanical Gardens, and paying your respects at the Oklahoma City National Memorial.

Head a bit north of the city, and you’ll quickly find yourself on Route 66, with quirky roadside attractions like the Arcadia Round Barn within easy reach.

3 hours, 15 minutes.

Houston, TX

As the 4th-largest city in the USA, Houston is positively packed with interesting things to do, starting with its most famous attraction of all: the incredible Johnson Space Center!

Once you finish up at the Space Center, though, there’s still plenty to see in Houston, including several parks to visit, an enormous number of museums and art galleries, and plenty of delicious food to eat–Houston is home to one of the best (and most diverse) food scenes in Texas!

Want to squeeze in a quick trip to the beach?

With some careful planning, you can enjoy some time on the sand in Galveston into your weekend in Houston!

3 hours, 30 minutes.

Located on the Arkansas River–and more importantly, along Route 66–Tulsa is an unexpectedly fun place to spend a weekend!

This unexpectedly charming city is complete with Art Deco architecture, plenty of interesting museums (don’t miss the stunningly beautiful Philbrook Museum of Art), and the fun Blue Dome District.

Want to see some classic Route 66 quirkiness while you’re there?

The famous Blue Whale of Catoosa is just outside the city!

4 hours, 30 minutes.

Nature-Focused Road Trips from Dallas

Palo duro canyon state park, tx.

The second-largest canyon in the USA is reachable as a weekend trip from Dallas–and it’s one of the coolest places in all of Texas!

While you’re there, be sure to soak in the excellent views from the top of the canyon, drive the park loop road, and hike a couple of trails. Most importantly, be sure to hike to the Lighthouse formation!

It’s the most famous formation in the park for good reason.

Colorado Bend State Park, TX

Want to feel like you’ve left Texas behind… without actually leaving Texas?

Staring up at 70-foot Gorman Falls can definitely have that effect: this stunning living waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Texas, and looks more like it belongs in Hawaii than in the Lone Star State!

Come to Colorado Bend State Park for hiking, swimming, and beautiful views in the heart of Texas.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park, NM

Located in southeastern New Mexico, Carlsbad Cavern is one of the most impressive caves in the USA.

It’s one of the most unique weekend getaways from Dallas!

While you can tour the main cavern, including the aptly-named Big Room, in a single day, with some extra time you can also add some more hiking in the Chihuahuan Desert to your trip… or you can combine your Dallas road trip to New Mexico with our next destination in this guide.

7 hours, 15 minutes.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park, TX

Set just south of the New Mexico border in west Texas–only half an hour from Carlsbad Caverns National Park–sits the beautiful Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

Here, you can find the four highest peaks in Texas and some excellent hiking , making it another fantastic option for weekend getaways from Dallas.

If you happen to be planning your road trip in the fall, Guadalupe Mountains National Park also happens to be home to some of the prettiest fall foliage in Texas !

Lake Texoma, TX/OK

Located right on the Oklahoma/Texas border, Lake Texoma is a doable day trip from Dallas but definitely deserves to be called out in any guide cataloging road trips from Dallas, as it’s absolutely one of the most popular weekend getaways for locals.

Popular for fishing, swimming, boating, and hiking, Lake Texoma is a fun outdoor getaway for the whole family!

1 hour, 40 minutes.

Hot Springs National Park, AR

Aptly named Hot Springs National Park is the perfect Dallas getaway destination for those looking for a relaxing weekend away, complete with a soak in a thermal spa!

Located in an urban setting surrounded by shops, restaurants, and more, Hot Springs offers a fantastic mix of natural highlights and small-town charm.

Nine historic bathhouses line Bathhouse Row, where visitors flocked to enjoy the local hot springs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, two of which you can still take a soak in today!

Broken Bow, OK

As the gateway to beautiful Beavers Bend State Park, Broken Bow is one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas for those looking for a quiet retreat into nature near a small town.

While in Broken Bow, you can go canoeing on the lake, take a hike, stay in a cozy cabin, and enjoy a relaxing trip that feels worlds away from the city.

Best Small-Town Weekend Trips from Dallas

Fredericksburg, tx.

Located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is definitely one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas!

Featuring plenty of nods to its German heritage, a beautiful downtown packed with shops and restaurants, great antiquing, and–most famously of all– plenty of easily accessible wineries to choose from, Fredericksburg is a fantastic change of pace from Dallas.

The town is also easily accessible to plenty of hiking (including Enchanted Rock ) and other beautiful small Texas towns (like Luckenbach , Johnson City , and Wimberley ).

4 hours, 15 minutes.

Round Top, TX

The tiny town of Round Top, Texas, is best known for its antique shows … but you can shop thousands of antiques, meander through a small town, and enjoy the famous (and delicious) pies at Royers Pie Haven year-round on a Dallas weekend getaway to Round Top!

Don’t miss Henkel Square Market or Rummel Square while you’re there!

And, if you’re into unique roadside stops on your road trips from Dallas, don’t miss the charming nearby St. Martin Catholic Church, which is considered the smallest Catholic church on Earth!

3 hours, 45 minutes.

Long known as the home of Baylor University, Waco has become one of the most popular road trips from Dallas in recent years for a very different reason: the opening of Magnolia Market, owned by Chip & Joanna Gaines of HGTV fame.

Even beyond the immensely popular Silos, though, Waco has plenty to see!

Consider also stopping by the Dr. Pepper Museum, enjoying Baylor’s beautiful campus, and checking out the Wooly Mammoth National Monument during your visit.

1 hour, 30 minutes.

Jefferson, TX

The small town of Jefferson, Texas, combined with nearby Caddo Lake State Park, makes one of the best and most diverse Dallas getaway ideas (for the lovebirds out there, it’s arguably one of the most romantic getaways from Dallas, too).

The best things to do in Jefferson itself include antiquing in the historic downtown center, shopping at the famous Jefferson General Store, staying in one of  the many bed and breakfasts  that the town is famous for, and learning about Jefferson’s railroad history–touring Jay Gould’s opulent private rail car is a great place to start.

From there, head to Caddo Lake, where you’ll find a very different side of the Lone Star State–one dotted with giant cypress trees that drip Spanish moss and leisurely canoe rides.

This isn’t a lake for swimming–the alligators who live in the lake are best avoided–but it is utterly beautiful, and a fantastic road trip from Dallas for those looking to leave city vibes behind entirely.

Branson, MO

Tucked into the Ozarks, Branson is a (polarizing) regional favorite, with a distinct flair that draws in visitors from surrounding states–including people looking for fun road trips from Dallas!

Branson is known for its live entertainment and shows (typically with a country music twist), its easy access to Table Rock Lake, and for being the home of Silver Dollar City, an amusement park that’s a favorite of families visiting the area.

New Braunfels, TX

For a fairly small town, New Braunfels is positively packed with things to do, from the beautiful Gruene Historic District (home to the iconic Gruene Hall), to floating the river, to visiting Schlitterbahn, to touring the incredible Natural Bridge Caverns.

Whether your ideal weekend getaway from Dallas includes natural beauty, dancing the night away, or one of the best theme parks in Texas, you’ll find it in New Braunfels!

3 hours, 40 minutes.

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40 Best Stops Between Orlando and Dallas

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How long is the drive from Orlando to Dallas?

The direct drive from Orlando to Dallas is 1,135 mi (1,826 km) , and should have a drive time of 16 hrs 34 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Orlando to Dallas, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with New Orleans , St. Augustine , Clearwater , Panama City Beach , Jacksonville , Pensacola , Biloxi , Mobile , Saint Augustine Beach , and Natchez , as well as top places to visit like St George St and Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, or the ever-popular Fort Matanzas National Monument.

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Jacksonville zoo and gardens, silver springs state park.

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Tarpon springs sponge docks, ellie schiller homosassa springs wildlife state park west entrance, clearwater marine aquarium.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from orlando to dallas.

Yes! You can drive from Orlando to Dallas.

How far is Dallas from Orlando by car?

The drive from Orlando to Dallas is 1,135 miles (1,826 km).

How long does it take to drive from Orlando to Dallas?

Driving from Orlando to Dallas should take you 16 hrs 34 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Orlando to Dallas?

Gas from Orlando to Dallas would cost around $99 to $232 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Orlando to Dallas?

You could check out St George St and Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, or the always popular Fort Matanzas National Monument!

What are the best cities to visit between Orlando and Dallas?

People love visiting New Orleans, St. Augustine, and Clearwater, among others.

What's the weather like in Orlando?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

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What are some other road trips from Orlando?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Orlando.

• Orlando to New York City drive
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Find cheap flights from Dallas to Orlando from $39

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from dallas to orlando departing on 6/4. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to orlando.

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Flights from dallas to orlando - travel insights & trends, get data-powered insights and trends into flights from dallas to orlando to help you find the cheapest flights, the best time to fly and much more., what is the cheapest dallas to orlando airport flight route, our data shows that the cheapest route for a one-way flight from dallas to orlando airport cost $35 and was between dallas/fort worth airport and orlando airport. on average, the best prices are found if you fly this route. the average price for a return flight for this route is $72., what’s the cheapest day of the week to fly from dallas to orlando, your flight ticket price will generally be cheaper if you fly to orlando on a tuesday and more expensive on a sunday. on your return trip to dallas, you should consider flying back on a wednesday, and avoid sundays for better deals., what is the cheapest month to fly from dallas to orlando airport, the cheapest month for flights from dallas to orlando airport is september, where tickets cost $143 on average. on the other hand, the most expensive months are november and march, where the average cost of tickets is $265 and $260 respectively., how far in advance should i book a flight from dallas to orlando airport, to get a below average price on the flight from dallas to orlando airport, you should book around 1 week before departure. for the absolute cheapest price, our data suggests you should book 30 days before departure., which airlines provide the cheapest flights from dallas to orlando, in the last 3 days, frontier offered the best one-way deal for that route, at $39. kayak users also found dallas to orlando round-trip flights on frontier from $72 and on spirit airlines from $74., which airlines fly most frequently between dallas and orlando, american airlines connects dallas to orlando with up to 10 flights per day. southwest also offers 10 flights per day, while frontier follows with 2 flights per day., which airlines fly non-stop between dallas and orlando airport, there are 4 airlines that fly nonstop from dallas to orlando airport. they are: american airlines, frontier, southwest and spirit airlines. the cheapest price of all airlines flying this route was found with spirit airlines at $54 for a one-way flight. on average, the best prices for this route can be found at spirit airlines., how many flights are there between dallas and orlando airport per day, each day, there are between 20 and 31 nonstop flights that take off from dallas and land in orlando airport, with an average flight time of 2h 36m. the most common departure time is 9:00 am and most flights take off in the morning. each week, there are 178 flights. the most frequent day of departure is monday, when 17% of all weekly flights depart. the fewest flights depart on a sunday., which cabin class options are there for flights between dallas and orlando airport, there are 4 cabin class options for the route. these are first, business, economy and prem economy. perform a search on kayak to find the latest prices and availability for all cabin fares, which differ across airlines., how long does a flight from dallas to orlando take, flying between orlando and dallas will take minimum 2h 35m and will require at least one stop., good to know, when to book flights from dallas to orlando, faqs for booking dallas to orlando flights, where can i get a rental car at orlando international airport (mco).

Several car rental agencies have representatives located in Terminal A and Terminal B at the Ground Transportation Level. There are also agencies that are located off-site and easily accessible via complimentary shuttles at the arrivals curb.

Does Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) have any quiet spaces where I can go before my flight?

Yes. If you or a traveling companion needs or wants a quiet space in order to calm down, focus, decompress, or re-center yourself before you board your flight to Orlando, feel free to take advantage of one of the Interfaith Chapels at DFW. These quiet places of sanctuary are located at gates A24, B25, C15, D21, and E4.

Where do I go if I'm flying into Orlando International Airport (MCO) in order to take a cruise?

If your cruise is on Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, or Disney, go to Terminal B, Level 1. If your cruise line is Go Port Canaveral, proceed to Terminal A, Level 1.

Does the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) have an on-site hotel?

Yes. Along with some hotels on airports grounds, DFW also has the Minute Suites inside the airport. Minute Suites provides rooms that you can rent hourly or overnight. Rooms include high speed internet, DirecTV, a sound-masking system, and a daybed sofa. Showers cost extra and pillows and blankets are first come, first served.

Does the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) have any areas where kids can play?

Yes. If you want to distract or exhaust your kids before the flight to Florida, head on over to Gate D8, where you will find the McDonald's Play Area. This indoor playground has nearby seating with charging outlets for parents. Your kids can also enjoy more spacious play spaces with an aviation theme at the Pepsi Junior Flyer Clubs located at Gates B12, C14, and D30.

Does Orlando International Airport (MCO) have any pet relief areas?

Yes. If you are traveling with your furry friend who needs to go as soon as you land at MCO, you can use one of the two pet relief areas, both of which are outdoors. The one at Terminal A is on the East Side of Level 2. The one at Terminal B is on the West Side of Level 2.

Which airport in Dallas is more accessible for travelers to Orlando?

The smaller Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL) is closer to Downtown Dallas and serves as a hub for Southwest Airlines. The smaller size and lower-traffic make departing from this airport a faster and less busy experience.

How do I get around at Orlando International Airport (MCO)?

Each Airside is connected via monorail to the centrally located building that houses the majority of the airport's amenities. This main airport building consists of three levels and is separated into A and B sides, corresponding to the terminals. The top floor is dedicated to ticketing and amenities, the second floor houses baggage claim, and the first floor provides additional baggage claim and ground transportation.

What special accommodations are available in the Orlando International Airport (MCO)?

Orlando International Airport provides convenient in-terminal wayfinding through the Orlando MCO Airport App.

What is the fastest route to Disney and Universal Studios theme parks and attractions from Orlando International Airport (MCO)?

Branded shuttle options can be found on Side B of the first floor of the main airport building. To get to Disneyworld via public transportation, take bus 111 from the airport, and switch to bus 50 at Sea Harbor and Academic Dr., near SeaWorld. For Universal Studios park, get off bus 111 at the Florida Mall stop, and take bus 37 to Park Promenade and Hiawassee Road.

What is the cheapest flight from Dallas to Orlando Airport?

In the last 3 days, the lowest price for a flight from Dallas to Orlando Airport was $39 for a one-way ticket and $72 for a round-trip.

Do I need a passport to fly between Dallas and Orlando?

A passport is required to fly from Dallas to Orlando.

Which airports will I be using when flying from Dallas to Orlando?

Dallas has 2 major airports: Dallas Love Field and Dallas/Fort Worth. Orlando is the only airport in Orlando. You’ll usually find the cheapest deals if you fly from Dallas/Fort Worth Airport.

Which aircraft models fly most regularly from Dallas to Orlando?

We unfortunately don’t have that data for this specific route.

Which airline alliances offer flights from Dallas to Orlando?

oneworld, and SkyTeam are the airline alliances operating flights between Dallas and Orlando, with SkyTeam being the most commonly used for this route.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights from Dallas to Orlando?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights from Dallas to Orlando.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket from Dallas to Orlando?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Orlando from Dallas is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights from Dallas to Orlando?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to Orlando with an airline and back to Dallas with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight from Dallas to Orlando?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Orlando from Dallas up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top tips for finding a cheap flight from Dallas to Orlando

• The USO at the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is located airside in Terminal B at Gate 47. Free to active-duty US military personnel and their dependents, this private military lounge offers refreshments, devices for connectivity and entertainment, a play area for kids, charging stations, newspapers, and more.
• If you want to board your pet before your trip to Orlando, consider reserving a spot at the Paradise 4 Paws Pet Resort located near the north entrance of the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). Open 24 hours, this facility provides boarding as well as other services.
• If you want your hands free to shop at the Orlando International Airport (MCO) or to explore Orlando right away, you can stop by Hold My Luggage on the B Side of Level 1 to store your luggage. Hold My Luggage offers storage, transport, and pick up/return.
• Flying from Dallas, TX to Orlando, FL means departing from Dallas/Fort Worth International (DFW) or Dallas Love Field (DAL) airports. The routes from either of these origination airports end at Orlando International Airport (MCO).
• The Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport is located between Dallas and Fort Worth. It is easily accessible from either city via public transport. The DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) orange line terminates at DFW Station, connecting you with Downtown Dallas, and going as far as Plano. From downtown, the trip takes around 1 hr. From Downtown Fort Worth, a TEXrail train takes around one hour to get you to the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport Station.
• The Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL) is located 6 miles northwest of Downtown Dallas and is the smaller of the two departure airport options. Bus 524 connects the Love Field Airport ground transportation and the Inwood/Love Field Station, which, in turn, is accessible via the green DART line.
• Spirit and American Airlines provide daily non-stop service between Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and Orlando, while Frontier provides occasional flight service during the week. Southwest provides daily non-stop flights to Orlando from Dallas Love Field. Single-stop options are also available, with Delta flights out of Dallas Love Field, and United and Alaska flights out of Dallas/Fort Worth.
• The Orlando International Airport is a large facility broken up into two terminals, each one consisting of two buildings called airsides. Airsides 1 and 2 constitute Terminal A, while Airsides 3 and 4 constitute Terminal B.
• Terminal A of Orlando International Airport welcomes passengers of American Airlines (Airside 1), Alaska (Airside 1), and Southwest (Airside 2). Terminal B receives Spirit (Airside 3), Delta (Airside 4), and United (Airside 3) passengers.

Prefer to fly non-stop from Dallas to Orlando?

Find which airlines fly direct from Dallas to Orlando, which days they fly and book direct flights.

Nonstop departures

Dallas to Orlando

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Orlando to Dallas

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Cheap flights from Dallas to Orlando

Good to know, when is the cheapest time to fly, popular airports near dallas.

• Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) Dallas 25 min 26 km
• Dallas Love Field (DAL) Dallas 17 min 9 km
• Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) Austin 3 hr 1 min 298 km
• Will Rogers World Airport (OKC) Oklahoma City 3 hr 7 min 300 km

Popular airports near Orlando

• Orlando International Airport (MCO) Orlando 25 min 13 km
• Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) Orlando 30 min 29 km
• Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) Fort Lauderdale 3 hr 10 min 299 km
• Tampa International Airport (TPA) Tampa 1 hr 27 min 129 km

Frequently asked questions about flying from Dallas to Orlando

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These suggestions are based on the cheapest fares to popular destinations in the next six months.

Prices include required taxes + fees for 1 adult. Optional charges and bag fees may apply.

• Las Vegas RUB 10,184 May 4 — May 6 1 stop 7 hr 14 min Frontier
• Seattle RUB 8,377 Apr 20 — Apr 22 1 stop 6 hr 57 min Frontier
• New York RUB 8,518 Apr 25 — Apr 29 Nonstop 3 hr 22 min Frontier
• London RUB 40,603 Apr 27 — Apr 29 2 stops 17 hr 35 min Frontier, Norse Atlantic UK

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22 Best Road Trips From Orlando

There is no place like Orlando, Florida, one of the most exciting cities in America. On top of all its theme parks, sunny weather, and outdoor activities is its proximity to other top American destinations.

You can reach some incredible destinations on a road trip from Orlando, like Ocala National Forest, St Augustine, Sarasota, Savannah, Key West, New Orleans, Nashville, New York, Niagara Falls, and beautiful Yellowstone National Park.

If you want an incredible day trip or are looking forward to a weekend escape or longer, then you should seriously consider a road trip from Orlando. Here are some for you to chew over.

The map below shows our 22 favorite road trip destinations from Orlando. See each route - and skip to the related section of the article - by clicking the star icon.

22 Best Road Trips from Orlando

Orlando is famous for being America's theme park capital. From Walt Disney World to Universal Studios, there is plenty to see and do in the city.

Other famous attractions nearby include Lake Tohopekaliga and Ocala National Forest. You'll also get to check out downtown Olrando and its amazing restaurants, bars, and nightlife.

Once you've had your fill riding the roller coasters and living it up in the theme parks, you can hit the road to discover the incredible destinations outside the city. Read on to discover the best road trips, things to see, and routes so you can plan this road trip of a lifetime from Orlando.

Day trips from Orlando (under 3 hours each way)

1. Kissimmee and Lake Tohopekaliga, FL

30 minutes from Orlando (20 miles)

Why you should visit: Even if Orlando is the major theme park destination, Kissimmee is its beautiful companion, offering several other interesting attractions and great dining options.

Kissimmee also offers better value for money than Orlando, since the big theme parks draw more crowds to nearby Orlando.

How to get there: Take the I-4. Then, get onto Florida's Turnpike and take exit 249. Take Michigan Ave to reach Kissimmee.

Our highlights: Visit the Monument of States. Erected as a tribute to the Pearl Harbor attacks, the building's embedded rocks come from across the states, sent particularly for its construction.

Another must see sight is the Museum of Military History. The museum covers and displays artifacts from most of America's major modern wars including Revolutionary War, WWI and WWII.

While you're in the area, check out Old Town. If you have an entire weekend to spend, then this modern shopping district filled with tourist attractions will be your stop

For natural scenery see Lake Tohopekaliga. A further 27 minutes' drive will take you to this famous fishing destination. The drive itself is thoroughly enjoyable for the lush surroundings and refreshing breeze.

Our travel tips: Kissimmee Old Town features car shows along with other well-lit events that you can enjoy at night..

2. Ocala National Forest, FL

1 hour 20 minutes from Orlando (70 miles)

Why you should visit: Ocala National Forest is a destination that will quench your thirst for exploration, with its immense number of enjoyable waterbodies.

Rare and exotic wildlife is coupled with exquisite natural beauty at this jewel of a national forest.

How to get there: Take the I-4, FL-46 W, and FL-453. Navigate via FL-44E to Fl-19N. Then take FR 97 to reach Ocala National Forest.

Our highlights: For some unbeatable time outdoors drive over to Juniper Springs. Camp within a palm and oak canopy at one of the east coast's oldest springs.

Another amazing outdoor paradise in Ocala National Forest is Alexander Springs. Here you can paddle, swim, or enjoy other water activities at the banks of the freshwater spring.

Take the Ocala Centennial OHV Trail. Ride a motorcycle, UTV, or ATV at this 47 mile loop trail system while also admiring the lush ecosystem.

Bonus: The Ocala OHV Trail is home to the “Big Scrub” – one of the world's largest pine scrubs.

Our travel tips: There is electricity supply and space for setting up tents and campfires at Juniper Springs, if you fancy camping!

3. Cape Canaveral, FL

50 minutes from Orlando (55 miles)

Why you should visit: There are very few locations that are more iconic and significant than NASA's historic Kennedy Space Center, which is easily accessible from Cape Canaveral. Many people lovingly call this area the “Space Coast.”

NASA's famous launch site also provides some excellent opportunities for enjoying beautiful scenery in pleasant weather, while also having fun with activities.

How to get there: Take the FL-408E. Then, take FL-528E. Head down Church Ln to reach Cape Canaveral.

Our highlights: The main attraction here is the Kennedy Space Center. This is one of NASA's most famous space centers where historical space events such as the Saturn-V launch occurred.

But if you fancy something a bit more down-to-earth, see the incredible Manatee Sanctuary Park. The beautiful, serene location is ideal for picnicking, kayaking, and fishing. If you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of lazing manatees as well.

Visit the Dinosaur Store and Museum. The Cocoa Beach location has hanging dinosaur fossils on display along with several prehistoric cave paintings.

Nearby is the Cherie Down Park. The park may be small but it's one of the prettiest ones out there as it also doubles as a hidden beachfront.

You can also visit where Apollo 11 was famously launched on its journey to the moon at the Kennedy Space Center.

Our travel tips: During spring, you will find dryer weather and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to visit.

4. Crystal River and Three Sisters Spring, FL

1 hour 30 minutes from Orlando (90 miles)

Why you should visit: Natural springs feed into the warm waters, providing a natural home for plenty of wildlife as well as a chance for outdoor activities for visitors.

The big highlight of this area are the manatees. These large and docile animals are a sight to behold.

How to get there: Take the FL-408W. Then get on Florida's Turnpike and exit 307. Finally, head down FL-44W to reach Crystal River.

Our highlights: One of the most memorable things you could do in this area is to swim with manatees. Be sure to carry your diving/snorkeling gear because you'll have a chance to have manatees as swimming companions. According to some biologists, Crystal River is the country's most important manatee habitat.

Visit Three Sisters Springs. One of the manatees' most important winter retreat, there is a boardwalk, trails along the waterfront, and a center where you can take a dip.

See Fort Island Gulf Beach. About a 20 minutes' drive, the cute little sandy beach is ideal for family fun time and picnics.

If you love fishing and foraging, you'll love scalloping. A beloved Crystal River tradition is to ride out, dive, and catch your own scallops.

Bonus: The scallops you catch can be taken to a restaurant where they will cook and serve it to you.

5. St. Petersburg, FL

1 hour 40 minutes from Orlando (110 miles)

Why you should visit: The city offers a bit of everything from dining, culture, tropical weather, and more along with dazzling Florida beaches.

Often called a “sparkling gem” in the Floridian coast, the beachside destination offers sandy beaches, fun family attractions, and an amazing art scene.

How to get there: Take the I-4W and I-275S. Then, take I-175E and 6th St S exit. You'll reach your destination via 5th St S.

Our highlights: Make a stop at the Pass-a-Grille Beach. The beach stands out, even among the excellent beaches of the city, because of its white sand and bluish-green waters.

Art lovers will love seeing the Salvador Dali Museum. Just as Dali's paintings are renowned for being a mixture of the fantastical and the rational, this dedicated structure follows the same principle in appearance.

Another must visit place for art lovers is the Morean Arts Center. One of the most community-oriented arts centers, the association exhibits national, international, and local artists' work on the same stage.

To get your fill of nature in a tranquil and historic setting, visit the Sunken Gardens. Almost a century old, this landmark garden is the home of more than 50,000 tropical plants and flowers. The Sunken Gardens is the oldest living museum in the city.

The Salvador Dali Museum is the largest Dali collection in the United States.The Morean Arts Center also houses the Chihuly collection, a permanent exhibit featuring works of Dale Chihuly.

Our travel tips: Try to visit between March and May. The weather is mild and pleasant and most events take place around this time.

6. St Augustine, FL

Why you should visit: St. Augustine is known for its preserved roots connecting it to the Spanish colonialist era.

Experience Spanish colonial architecture unlike in any other place, as you walk surrounded by the historic vibes of the city.

How to get there: Take I-4E and I-95N. Get off at exit 311 and get on I-95N. Follow FL-207N to reach St Augustine.

Our highlights: If you love beaches, Crescent Beach is a must. It is one of the quieter Florida beaches, which makes it a favorite among the locals.

Head over to the Lightner Museum. Hotel Alcazar (built in 1887) houses this beautiful and quirky museum complete with a fishpond, courtyard, and other enjoyable installations.

Visit the Castillo de San Marcos. According to history, the fort has remained unbroken since 1702. Its strength is attributed to its special coquina walls.

Head over to see the Colonial Quarter. The architecture from the Spanish colonial era remains well-preserved. This is an authentic highlight of the city's already fun vibe. St Augustine is the country's oldest continuously inhabited city.

Our travel tips: The best time to have a trip to St Augustine would be between March and May due to its pleasant weather that remains in the mid-70 degrees Fahrenheit.

7. Clearwater and Honeymoon and Caladesi Islands, FL

2 hours from Orlando (105 miles)

Why you should visit: Clearwater is not just another one of Florida's coastal cities as you can hardly get a better swim anywhere else.

Honeymoon Island has one of the country's best pet-friendly beaches, apart from hiking and nature trails. Nearby Caladesi's beaches remain untouched and make for a great place to relax surrounded by swaying palm trees.

Clearwater's beachside accommodations rank among the highest in the world. Check into one of them and enjoy the frolicking dolphins in the warm waters and white beaches.

How to get there: Take I-4W and FL-60W. Take exit 2A on FL-60W. Follow N Fort Harrison Ave to reach Clearwater.

Our highlights: Take in the romantic setting at Caladesi Island. Coupled with Honeymoon Islands, this quiet beach island deserves nothing short of a full-day excursion.

Visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Home to many fascinating creatures such as pelicans, eels, and sea turtles.

Head over to see the Calypso Queen. The famous cruise trip is a must for cruise lovers, because of the amazing sunset, buffet, and the night dance party.

Take a drive to the beautiful Sand Key Park. Just under a 10 minute drive from Pier 60, lies this 95-acre area consisting of two beaches that is perfect for surfing and more.

Check out famous Pier 60. Some believe it to be the best fishing spot in the entire State, and you can also enjoy fine dining and entertainment, along with a fine beach to walk along.

Bonus: Clearwater Beach's sand is very soft and white because it isn't mixed with coral, rocks, or shells. Kick off your shoes and stroll, worry free!

Our travel tips: The best time to visit is between October and December, when the humidity decreases and fewer visitors are on the beaches.

8. Sarasota, Brandenton and Anna Maria Island, FL

2 hours 15 minutes from Orlando (130 miles)

Why you should visit: If you are on a vacation, and you like beaches, then Sarasota is the destination for you. Anna Maria Island is easily reachable from Sarasota.

Enjoy cultural attractions in the pleasant weather, alongside beaches that are only a short walk from where you are staying.

How to get there: Take the I-4W. Then you can hop on the I-75S. Follow FL-780W to reach Sarasota.

Our highlights: Take a drive to Bradenton. Sitting in between the vast Gulf of Mexico and the laid-back Manatee River, the city is known for its friendliness and scenic natural spots.

Head over to Anna Maria Island. The absolutely stunning wide sandy beaches are what draws visitors to this barrier island. Check out Manatee Beach and Bean Point Beach.

Visit the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. The estuary-specialized research center's aquarium houses over 100 marine creatures, with several international ones amongst locals. The Mote Marine Laboratory was originally Cape Haze Marine Laboratory. Its name was changed in 1967 to honor William Mote, Lenore R. Mote, and Betty Mote Rose.

If you want to see some incredible art, visit the John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art. Browse through classical art and architecture across several eras including the Renaissance, Roman, and Greek works.

John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art gets its name from the infamous Ringling Bros. & Barnum and Bailey Circus. There are 45-minute tours here that you can take.

You can walk through the treetops of a subtropical forest in Sarasota. Myakka Canopy Walkway is the only place where you can do this in the country!

9. Cedar Key and Waccasassa Bay Preserve State Park, FL

2 hours 50 minutes from Orlando (135 miles)

Why you should visit: One of the traditional and well-known vacation spots in Florida, the petite city's charm lies in its historical setting.

The best term to describe Cedar Key is “old-fashioned”. However, it's laid-back setting means there will be hardly any traffic while you enjoy the beaches and greenery.

How to get there: Take the FL-408W. From here, take Florida's Turnpike and I-75N. Take exit 341 on the I-75N and drive along FL-24W to reach Cedar Key.

Our highlights: See the Cedar Key Historical Society Museum. This premier museum in the region has exhibits showcasing the history, prehistory, and present of the area.

Check out the Kayak Cedar Keys. The biggest full-service kayak livery in northern Florida has been central to forming Cedar Key's reputation as one of the Gulf Coast's best paddling destinations.

History lovers will love to visit the Cedar Key State Museum. Saint Clair Whitman's former home is preserved along with collections of indigenous artifacts and seashells.

Wind down and relax at the Waccasassa Bay Preserve State Park. Islands, salt marshes, and tidal creeks make it a scenic area for fishing and wildlife observation.

Our travel tips: Any time apart from the rainiest months of July and August are good enough for the trip.

10. Gasparilla Island State Park, FL

2 hours 50 minutes from Orlando (175 miles)

Why you should visit: This is a stunning island on the Gulf Coast, famous because of its sandy beaches and bluish green waters.

Enjoy a bunch of seaside activities such as seashell searching on the Gasparilla Island Beach.

How to get there: Drive on the I-4W and I-75S. Take exit 191 on the I-75S. Follow State Route 777 to reach Gasparilla.

Our highlights: Take time to find sea shells and shark teeth. Spend your beach stroll doing something fun, searching for unique sea shells and, if you are lucky, the fossilized teeth of sharks.

Check out the Boca Grande Boutiques. Boca Grande village lies in Gasparilla's center, and has cute boutiques offering fishing apparel, beach cover-ups, and souvenirs.

Visit the Gasparilla Inn. Return to history in this inn constructed in 1913 that still maintains the décor of the era.

See Bradenton, Sarasota. You can choose to combine it with a trip via Bradenton and Sarasota. The detour, if you are not making stops, will add about 40 minutes to the drive time.

Bonus: Search hard enough and you will get perfectly formed shells in a myriad of colors.

Our travel tips: The best time to make this trip is November.

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W eekend trips from Orlando (3-5 hours each way)

11. Miami and Fort Lauderdale, FL

3 hours 45 minutes from Orlando (225 miles)

Why you should visit: Famous worldwide as a beachside location, Miami needs little introduction. Enjoy amazing nightlife combined with beautiful beaches here on this amazing road trip from Orlando to Miami . You will also get a chance to visit Fort Lauderdale .

Along with the world-famous beaches of Miami, experience the unique culture, art, food, and outstanding nightlife at one of the world's premier vacation destinations.

How to get there: Take the I-4 and get on Florida's Turnpike. Then, take I-95S and exit 2C.

Our highlights: Visit Miami Beach and soak in the sun. The iconic landmark of fun in the sun known worldwide is a must visit even if it is only for a moment.

Head down Las Olas Boulevard. Fort Lauderdale's central street has more than enough cultural and historical outlets to provide a complete overview of the city.

Stroll through nature at the Gumbo Limbo Nature Park. See stunning trees, flowers, and creatures like turtles, iguanas, and even sharks.

Check out the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. The architecture is styled in Renaissance fashion. The insides, meanwhile, carry on the theme with real European art and furniture dating back to the 15th century.

Bonus: The Vizcaya Museum features European-style gardens which are the most elaborate of their kind in the entire US!

READ MORE - Road Trip from Orlando to Miami

12. Sanibel Island and Captiva Island, FL

3 hours 30 minutes from Orlando (185 miles)

Why you should visit: Sanibel and Captiva are two barrier islands that go hand-in-hand for their quaint and quieter settings.

If you want a less crowded beach vacation, then these might interest you. Sanibel is also famous for its shelling.

How to get there: Take the I-4, FL-570W, and FL-31S. Drive along I-75S and take exit 131. Continue along Daniels Parkway to reach Sanibel Islands.

Our highlights: See the incredible animals at the J. N. (Ding) Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Crocodiles are only one of the several hundred animals on display that call this complex mangrove system their home.

Visit the Baily-Mathews National Shell Museum. Since shell collecting is one of the highlights, spend some time learning about the different identities and details of the shells.

Explore the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village. The earliest Sanibel residents lived in seven houses covering the time from the Calusa People till Spanish colonizers settled. All the buildings have been moved and preserved as exquisite exhibits.

Check out the Captiva Islands. A further 20 minutes' drive away will take you to another fun family-vacation location with beaches, hiking, and dining.

Bonus: Sanibel has won awards for being the best beach for shelling in Florida. The J. N. Darling Refuge is the country's largest mangrove system.

Our travel tips: December to April is the best period for making this trip, although the temperatures are comparatively cooler all year round.

13. Everglades National Park, FL

3 hours 55 minutes from Orlando (210 miles)

Why you should visit: Home of a number of diverse and rare species, making it a recognized biodiverse space in the international community.

Volunteers and science workshops hold guided tours that can reveal to you the true significance of one of the world's most important green preserves.

How to get there: Take the I-4 and get on US-27S and FL-29S. Drive along FL-29S to reach the Everglades.

Our highlights: Take a Kayak Eco Tour. The Everglades' kayak routes have something for everyone, so be sure not to miss out on this tour.

If you really want an adventure take an Airboat Tour. Most of us will have very few chances to ride the airboat, however it's one of the best vehicles to explore the swampy area.

Visit Shark Valley. The name may seem ominous but the trail is short and easy enough for beginners. It will take you to an observation deck where you can look out over the mangroves.

There's a more scenic detour via Fort Myers and Naples that will add about 1 hour to the total drive time.

Bonus: The Everglades are also a “Wetland of International Significance” and a biosphere reserve. It has the western hemisphere's largest mangrove ecosystem.

Our travel tips: Make the trip between November and April to get the “dry season” weather. There will be fewer mosquitos, lower temperatures, and more active wildlife around this time.

14. Savannah, GA

4 hours from Orlando (280 miles)

Why you should visit: The well-preserved history coupled with the amazing coastal scenery makes Savannah the ideal destination for history buffs looking for a beachside vacation.

Intriguing museums, relaxing trolley rides, and historical cemeteries are just some of the many activities on offer in the city.

How to get there: Take the I-4E, I-95N, and I-295N. Drive on I-16E and exit 167B. Drive along Martin Luther King Jr Ave to reach Savannah.

Our highlights: Check out the Paris Market. This unique store for curios was built with the idea of incorporating the styles of bazaars from across the world.

Visit the Pirates' House. More than just a pub, experience Savannah's cultural link with the pirates at this themed restaurant.

No trip to this area is complete without seeing Hilton Head Island. A favorite spot for dolphins, you can go on tours in the hopes of sighting some of the majestic mammals.

See the Bonaventure Cemetery. Take a daytime tour to learn more about the uncanny connection that Savannah has with crime, mystery, and death.

Long weekend trips from Orlando (5-8 hours each way)

15. Destin, FL

6 hours 20 minutes from Orlando (420 miles)

Why you should visit: A part of Florida's famous glorious Emerald coast, enjoy the emerald waters with an assortment of activities at Destin.

From dolphin tours to fine dining to monthly firework shows, there will hardly be a form of entertainment you will fail to find in Destin, which is also known as "the world's luckiest fishing village."

How to get there: Take the FL-408W and get on I-75N and I-10W, then take exit 70. Continue along FL-285S and FL-293 to reach Destin.

Our highlights: For a unique experience, visit the Isle of Crabs. A former island that has now eroded away, it is a mooring site for boats as the passengers enjoy and take in the unique scenery.

Go Deep-sea fishing. Destin hosts a number of fishing competitions adding to its reputation as a premier fishing spot. You too can experience a part of it by hitching an excursion on a fishing vessel.

Have an adventure at The Big Kahuna's. A water park for the family, enjoy over forty water-related activities, including slides and more.

Check out Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. More than just a home for aquatic creatures, you can actually interact with some of them, including dolphins.

Our travel tips: A summer vacation will place you in the thick of the crowd and at the highest cost. Traffic is also a notorious problem in the city so drive patiently.

Destin is at its finest between April and May when the weather is pleasant, the sun is out, and the water is warm.

16. Key West, FL

6 hours 30 minutes from Orlando (390 miles)

Why you should visit: The country's southernmost point is also a fabulous destination for tourists because of its vibrant nightlife alongside its pristine beaches. Did you know that Key West is closer to Cuba than Miami ?

The laid-back vibes are perfect for taking your time going through the coral reefs. There are also a ton of literary festivals, museums, and galleries to explore.

How to get there: Take the I-4, drive along Florida's Turnpike. Continue along US-1S to reach Key West.

You can also take a 3-hour ferry ride from Marco Island to Key West.

Our highlights: Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. Built in 1851, this former home of famous author Ernest Hemingway is an exquisite example of Spanish colonial architecture.

Walk down Mallory Square. Take part in the popular “Sunset Celebration” from this square looking westward at the Gulf of Mexico.

Learn about the incredible history of the region at the Audubon House. The stunning home of Captain John Huling Geiger and his family stands as a window back to the 1840s.

See the Key West Cemetery. One of the liveliest parts of the city is where you least expect it to be – the tombstones are famous for having quirky last words.

Our travel tips: In Key West, lodging and food may be expensive. The ideal time of year to visit Key West is during the shoulder season. It can be difficult and expensive to find parking near Duval Street.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Orlando to Key West

Longer trips from Orlando (Over 8 hours each way)

17. New Orleans, LA

Via pensacola beach, fl.

9 hours 42 minutes from Orlando (670 miles)

Why you should visit: New Orleans has worldwide acclaim as a city closely related to music, food, and Creole culture so you are guaranteed to have an amazing time on this road trip from Orlando to New Orleans .

Even if you can't time your trip with the extravagant New Orleans Mardi Gras, you'll still experience the world-famous Cajun cuisine and limitless sounds of jazz and other styles of music.

How to get there: Take the FL-408W, I-75N, I-10W, and I-110S. Get on US-98E and FL-399S to reach Pensacola Beach. Remerge with I-110N and drive along I-10W to reach New Orleans.

Our highlights: Check out the famous French Quarter. If you are interested in Creole culture and music, you have to take a stroll through the iconic streets of The French Quarter.

Stroll through nearby Frenchmen Street. Get a taste of the New Orleans Jazz at Marigny, right beside the French Quarter.

Visit the National WWII Museum. An award-winning facility filled with exhibits recounting the tales of soldiers and civilians at the forefront and at home during those devastating years.

Drive over to the beautiful coast of Navarre. You can take a minor detour worth about 20 minutes to witness the clearest emerald waters you will see anywhere at the Navarre beachside.

Our travel tips: A lot of places in New Orleans only accept cash so be sure to bring it with you.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Orlando to New Orleans

18. Nashville, TN

Via atlanta, ga.

10 hours from Orlando (690 miles)

Why you should visit: The world's music capital also has other events to enjoy like delicious food and historical sites.

A type of must-do if you are a lover of country music. Even if you are not, the city's association and love for music will enthrall you.

How to get there: Take the FL-408W and I-75N. Take exit 246 to reach Atlanta and re-merge with I-75N and take I-24W, I-40W. Take exit 209 on I-40W to reach Nashville.

Our highlights: Visit the Grand Ole Opry. This place is considered as the original progenitor of country music and the best place to experience it.

Head down Broadway. This is the beating heart of the city where you can eat, drink, dance, and sing, or, for the more energetic, ride a mechanical bull.

See the famous Parthenon replica. The city was once the most integral center for education for the State, and as such, builders took the opportunity to build a complete replica of the famed Greek monument.

Stop in beautiful and fast-paced Atlanta on your way. Do not miss out on Georgia's Capital City and, particularly, its amazing museums like the High Museum of Art. Click here to read more about the road trip from Orlando to Atlanta .

READ MORE - Road Trip from Orlando to Atlanta

19. Washington, DC

12 hours 15 minutes from Orlando (850 miles)

Why you should visit: The capital of the country is also the best place to witness the greatest historical moments in the United States' existence. This epic road trip from Orlando to Washington DC will provide the opportunity to learning about the building blocks of the nation.

The museums, monuments, attractions, and memorials are among the most famous and iconic structures not just in the country, but in the world.

How to get there: Take the I-95N. Then, get on US-1N and exit on I-95N. Continue along 14th St SW Drive Cir to reach Washington, DC.

Our highlights: Take time strolling along the National Mall. Probably the most recognizable place in the city, it is also where you will find the majority of the most famous monuments of Washington DC including the Lincoln Memorial.

See the Library of Congress. Housing more than 167 million items, suffice to say, simply witnessing the scale would be mesmerizing.

Go shopping in the Eastern Market. Among the oldest markets in the city, there are plenty of products that can catch your interest from jewelry to fruits.

You can also visit beautiful Charleston as part of this road trip. You can take an hours' detour on the way to visit the “Holy City.” It is said that history runs through the city's veins.

In the National Mall, the tallest structure is the Washington Memorial while the largest is the Smithsonian Museum.

Our travel tips: Admission to the Library of Congress (the world's second biggest library) is free, so be sure not to miss it.

Also, consider touring the city's monuments at night time - they take on a whole new ambience!

READ MORE - Road Trip from Orlando to Washington DC

20. New York, NY

15 hours 40 minutes from Orlando (1,070 miles)

Why you should visit: If you can, don't miss out on a chance to visit one of the biggest modern metropolises. New York is considered by many to be the world's most global cities.

True to its metropolis nature, the city has an immense number of sights and events on offer, from landmarks to a bustling night scene.

How to get there: Take the I-4E and I-95N. Get on the NJ Turnpike. Drive along Holland Tunnel and Varick St to reach New York.

Our highlights: See world famous Central Park. The 693-acre greenspace sitting in the heart of the bustling city will feel like a world away. You'll see some of the most iconic views in the world.

Visit the famous Yankee Stadium. Catching any event at the New York Yankees' home is nothing short of having an experience of a lifetime.

Take some time seeing the Morgan Library & Museum. The multi-millionaire's personal collection houses artifacts, books, and paintings that date back to 4,000 B.C.

Check out the American Art Museum at Whitney. When The Whitney moved to its considerably enlarged Meatpacking headquarters in 2015 from its Upper East Side headquarters, it received a significant renovation.

New York City is the largest city in the United States. Here, you can find almost every language on earth spoken in the same city. You can also find the most diverse range of restaurants on earth - so be sure to venture out of your culinary comfort zone!

Our travel tips: There's much more to New York than Manhattan, so make an effort to escape to the boroughs. Public transportation is, by far, the best way to get about in the city.

21. Niagara Falls, NY

17 hours 50 minutes from Orlando (1,200 miles)

Why you should visit: Perhaps, the most famous waterfall in the Northern Hemisphere, the majesty of Niagara Falls is a once in a lifetime sight.

The Falls' popularity stems from the amount of water that moves through it, not because of its height. This causes an enormous amount of mist and spray creating a breathtakingly powerful sight.

How to get there: Get on the I-4E, I-95N, I-26W, and I-77N. Then drive on I-79N, I-90E, and I-190N. Take exit 22 on I-190N and US-62N to reach Niagara Falls.

Our highlights: Visit Prospect Point Observation Tower. All 3 Niagara Falls are visible from this tower which is located on the ground.

Experience the thrilling Maid of the Mist. The oldest boat tour of the Falls' is the most atmospheric way to get up close and personal to the enormous falls.

See Goat Island's Cave of Winds. Get your heart pumping by walking to a wooden platform merely 20 feet above the Bridal Veils Fall.

Visit Old Fort Niagara. One of the more historical aspects of the area will let you experience the past while enjoying scenic views of the Falls.

Niagara Falls is a collection of three waterfalls: the American Falls, the Bridal Veil Falls, and the Horseshoe Falls (the widest). Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in New York, open to the public since 1885.

Bonus: As you'll be in the area, combine your trip with a visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake. And while you're there, make sure to sample their famous icewine.

Our travel tips: While visiting Niagara Falls, please be sure to leave behind anything that can be damaged by water. No matter how much protection you have, the volume of water can leave you soaked if you take a close-up tour.

22. Yellowstone National Park, WY

35 hours from Orlando (2,325 miles)

Why you should visit: A historical national park in more ways than one, the park is known for its fabulous hiking trails and beautiful views.

Yellowstone is the home of iconic geysers such as the Old Faithful, along with exquisite natural scenery in the form of trails and wildlife. The park has the highest number of geysers and hot springs in the world.

How to get there: Hop on FL-408W. Then make your way onto I-75 N, I-24 W, I-57 N, I-64 W, and I-80 W. Take exit 215 on I-80W and follow US-287N and US-20E to reach Yellowstone National Park.

Our highlights: See the unforgettable Upper Geyser Basin. Yellowstone's most popular destination is also the park's largest and the home of Old Faithful and 150 other geysers.

Take in the sights of the Lamar Valley. The best location in the park for viewing wildlife, you will get to see huge buffalo herds and sometimes, even wolves.

Check out Midway Geyser Basin. One of the smaller basins in the park features the Grand Prismatic Hot Spring, whose vivid coloring has long been the poster feature of the park.

Don't miss the Mammoth Hot Springs. Witness steaming water flow naturally over travertine terraces, a unique phenomenon that will leave you mesmerized.

Our travel tips: April, September, and October make up the “off-season” as well as the best times to visit this location because of thinner crowds and more wildlife.

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WATCH: Hornets' Davis Bertans Ejected After Hit on Magic SG Jalen Suggs - NBA Tracker

• Author: Jeremy Brener

In this story:

MAR 19 BERTANS HITS SUGGS Charlotte Hornets forward Davis Bertans is hitting the showers early tonight after striking Orlando Magic guard Jalen Suggs in the head in the second quarter.

Here's a look at the play ...

The Magic leads 67-32 at halftime.

MAR 18 ANTHONY BLACK JERSEY SWAP Orlando Magic rookie Anthony Black played just three minutes in the team's win on Sunday against the Toronto Raptors , but many on social media were talking about him after the game.

After the game, he swapped jerseys with fellow rookie Gradey Dick, who was the No. 13 overall pick in this year's draft.

The placement of the jerseys created a viral moment on social media and it's likely that the picture will be used as a meme for years to come.

MAR 16 SUGGS LOVES HIS TEAMMATES The Orlando Magic are vibing after picking up their 39th win of the season, and Jalen Suggs was feeling the love after the win on Friday against the Toronto Raptors.

Suggs and the Magic are back against the Raptors tomorrow night at home. Tipoff is scheduled for 6 p.m. ET.

MAR 12 MOSLEY EXTENDED  Orlando Magic coach Jamahl Mosley isn't leaving anytime soon.

According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the Magic and Mosley have agreed to a four-year extension.

The Magic are 93-106 in Mosley's three-year tenure so far, but a 37-win season and a likely playoff berth have prompted Orlando to keep him around until the 2027-28 season.

MAR 10 KLAY TRADE INTEREST WITH MAGIC It's been just over a month since the NBA Trade Deadline, and while the Orlando Magic failed to make a move, they had interest in making one.

SNY's Ian Begley is confirming that the Magic had interest in trading for Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson, who is an impending free agent.

Thompson could sign with the Magic this offseason with over $30 million in cap space in free agency.

MAR 3 MAGIC STARTERS VS. PISTONS The Orlando Magic will start Jalen Suggs, Gary Harris, Franz Wagner, Paolo Banchero and Wendell Carter Jr. against the Detroit Pistons .

Tipoff is set for 6 p.m. ET from the Kia Center.

MAR 1 MAGIC MATCH LAST YEAR'S WIN TOTAL The Orlando Magic are 34-26 through 60 games this season. Last year, the team was 34-48 at the end of the season.

With all of March and half of April left to go, the Magic have matched their win total from a year ago.

Only the Houston Rockets , Minnesota Timberwolves and Oklahoma City Thunder have matched or exceeded their win total from last year so far this season.

FEB 20 MAGIC TV RATINGS INCREASE The Orlando Magic is over .500 at the All-Star Break, which has given fans a reason to tune in.

According to the Sports Business Journal , Magic viewership on Bally Sports Florida, the team's regional sports network, is up 76 percent.

The Magic's increase ranks fourth in the NBA behind the defending champion Denver Nuggets (139 percent), top-seeded Minnesota Timberwolves (107 percent), and Phoenix Suns (94 percent).

FEB 19 NETS FIRE VAUGHN A former coach of the Orlando Magic is looking for a new job.

According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski , the Brooklyn Nets are firing coach Jacque Vaughn, who played the 2002-03 season with the Magic and coached the franchise from 2012-15.

Vaughn, 49, has the Nets at a 21-33 record before the All-Star Break, which ended in a 50-point loss on Wednesday against the Boston Celtics .

FEB 17 MAC'S FIRST DUNK! Osceola Magic guard Mac McClung is looking to defend his Dunk Contest title, and he's starting off his defense on the right foot.

McClung received 48/50 for the dunk, putting him in second place going into the second round.

FEB 13 SHAQ TO THE RAFTERS! The Orlando Magic officially have a jersey in the rafters.

Take a look at O'Neal's jersey reveal, which took place after the Magic's game on Tuesday night against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

FEB 13 SHAQ VS. KANYE The Orlando Magic is all about Shaquille O'Neal on Tuesday as his No. 32 jersey goes into the rafters. But before the ceremony, O'Neal took to social media to share some words with rapper Kanye West.

West and O'Neal were at the Super Bowl on Sunday in Las Vegas, but Shaq wasn't a fan of Kanye's antics both during the event and prior.

The comment has since been deleted from Instagram, a sign that Shaq is moving on as he's being honored by the Magic following tonight's game against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

FEB 7 MAC MCCLUNG BACK TO DUNK CONTEST The Orlando Magic organization will have a representative in the Dunk Contest this year.

According to The Athletic's Shams Charania , G League star Mac McClung is set to defend his title at next weekend's Dunk Contest. McClung will compete alongside Jacob Toppin ( New York Knicks ), Jaime Jaquez Jr. ( Miami Heat ) and Jaylen Brown (Boston Celtics).

The Dunk Contest is set for Saturday, Feb. 17 in Indianapolis.

FEB 1 PAOLO NAMED AN ALL-STAR Paolo Banchero is officially an All-Star after the NBA revealed its reserves for the game later this month.

The young Orlando Magic star is averaging 23 points, seven rebounds, and five assists so far this season, proving very worthy of his first career selection.

Here's a look at the remaining All-Stars ...

Latest Magic News

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'Don't Sleep on the Orlando Magic!' Redick Praises Former Team

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dallas contemporary's spring 2024 exhibitions opening celebration

dallas contemporary’s

spring exhibitions opening celebration

featuring the solo presentation patrick martinez: histories

+ group exhibition who’s afraid of cartoony figuration?

wednesday, 03 april 2024

7.00 pm - 9.00 pm

free admission, complimentary drinks (21+)

161 glass st. dallas, tx

on wednesday, 03 april from 7.00 pm - 9.00 pm join us for the celebration of our spring exhibitions and a special opportunity to meet the artists. plus enjoy music by dj sober + specialty cocktails from LALO tequila, greenhouse gin + townes vodka.

celebrated artist patrick martinez presents histories, the artist’s largest solo exhibition to date. featuring sculpture, dynamic installations, large-scale multi-media paintings, and the artist's iconic neon works, the exhibition draws attention to often overlooked and ephemeral city scenes embedded with elements reflective of intergenerational cultural exchange. histories is curated by rafael barrientos martínez.

who’s afraid of cartoony figuration? debuts the same night – a multi-dimensional group exhibition, curated by adjunct curator alison m. gingeras. the show presents works by artists karolina jabłońska, sally saul, tabboo! and umar rashid that dare to mix the levity of cartoons, comics, and commercial illustration with some of the most pressing socio-political subjects of our day.

image 01: patrick martinez, feather serpent in nopales, stucco, neon, mean streak, ceramic, acrylic paint, spray paint, latex house paint, ceramic tile and tile adhesive on panel 5ft x 10ft 2024. photo yubo dong (ofstudio)

image 02: umar rashid, the high priestesses of caddo (on stilts) execute an ambush. general galvez and his steed artax succumb to the swamp of sadness, 2024. courtesy of the artist and blum los angeles, tokyo, new york. photo hannah mjølsnes.

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Best Free & Fun Things to Do in Orlando with Kids April 2024

Orlando is bustling this April with Earth Day events and outdoor spring festivals galore! Don’t miss our favorite FREE things to do in Orlando with kids in April.

Experience a variety of spring celebrations throughout Central Florida this April. Visit Winter Garden for  Spring Fever in the Garden , head to Lake Eola Park for  Spring Fiesta in the Park , and catch epic music performances at the  Ocoee Music Fest . Celebrate Earth Day at special events in  downtown Orlando , Sanford , and  St. Cloud . Witness the solar eclipse at either the Orange County Regional History Center or UCF's Knights Under the Stars . Plus, lots more to enjoy!

These are only some of our favorite, FREE April events for Orlando kids—we're adding even more activities to our  Orlando Events Calendar every day so keep an eye out!

More Things To Do in Orlando This April With Kids:

• 40 Spring Festivals & Fairs for Orlando Kids and Families
• Guide to Free Things to Do in Orlando with Kids
• Orlando Summer Camp Guide
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FREE Things to Do with Kids in Orlando, April 2024

Leu gardens free entrance day.

Monday, April 1, 2024

On the first Monday during select months, Leu Gardens offers free entry to everyone. Stroll through the 50-acre lush botanical gardens, smell the roses, or just relax in the shade of a beautiful oak tree.  read more

Story Time on the Porch

Thursday, April 4, 2024

Bring the kids to the porch of The Healthy West Orange Arts & Heritage Center for Story Time on the Porch. Kids can listen to a children's book and participate in a free activity. read more

Eustis First Friday

Friday, April 5, 2024

Visit the streets of downtown Eustis for a First Friday festival, with a different theme each month. This event features food, vendors, music, and more. read more

Lake Mary First Friday Park Party

Start each month with a First Friday Park Party in Lake Mary's Central Park. Enjoy food trucks, drinks, and entertainment for the whole family. read more

Apopka Health & Fitness Fest

Saturday, April 6, 2024

The annual Apopka Health & Fitness Fest features Vegan Food Popups, free health screenings, cooking demos , exercise & safety demos , prize drawings, refreshments, and more. read more

Fort Christmas Bluegrass Festival

The Bluegrass Festival returns to Fort Christmas Park, featuring music, performers, and food trucks. Bring chairs or blankets to enjoy the entertainment. read more

Sami's Park Pop-Up

Bring the kids to meet Sami the sandhill crane and enjoy bounce houses, surprise activities, and fun giveaways. read more

Florida License-Free Freshwater Fishing Day

April 6-7, 2024

Florida's license-free fishing days provide residents and non-residents the opportunity to try out fishing without having to purchase a license. This is a great time to introduce kids to fishing! read more

Spring Fever in the Garden

This annual Winter Garden festival celebrates spring and gardening. For little ones there will be a Kid Zone featuring crafts, face painting, balloon animals, stilt walker, and more. Guests can also enjoy free live entertainment, sidewalk chalk art contest, an "Ask the Garden Experts" booth, birds at the Avian Reconditioning Center booth, and more.  read more

Spring Fiesta in the Park

Visit Lake Eola Park for the annual Spring Fiesta in the Park. Little ones can explore the children's play area, and adults can browse more than 200 artists and crafters from all over the United States. read more

Eclipse Viewing Party at Evangel Assembly of God

Monday, April 8, 2024

Step outside and view the eclipse in real time and participate in other eclipse activities. Eclipse glasses will be provided while supplies last. read more

Eclipse Viewing Party at South Creek Branch Library

Step outside and view the eclipse in real time. Eclipse glasses will be provided while supplies last. read more

Solar Celebration at Orange County Regional History Center

The History Center and the Orlando Public Library are hosting a “sun”-sational gathering. Participate in this spectacular solar eclipse viewing party featuring themed games, activities, and hands-on crafts to facilitate a fascinating celestial discovery. read more

Knights Under the Stars

Mondays, April 8 & 15, 2024

At this event, a variety of portable telescopes are set up and pointed at various interesting objects in the sky. Each telescope is staffed by a knowledgeable volunteer who can explain to you what you’re seeing, and answer any other questions you have. read more

Storytime at the Central Florida Zoo

Wednesday, April 10, 2024

The Central Florida Zoo and Orange County Library System partner to provide a fun story time event where kids can listen to animal stories and meet one of the zoo's animal ambassadors. read more

Ocoee Music Fest

April 12-13, 2024

This 2-day music fest is dedicated to celebrating Ocoee’s small town traditions with music, community, small businesses, and fun. Event includes an array of festival food, carnival rides, face painting, kids bike fest, marketplace, car show, beer garden, and musical performances. read more

Absolutely Avalon

Saturday, April 13, 2024

Enjoy an evening celebrating everything that makes Avalon Park amazing. This cultural festival includes food, music, pinwheel garden, cultural performances, bounce park, a laser light show, and more. read more

The Great Duck Derby

Bring the kids to Mead Botanical Gardens for the annual Duck Derby. Adopt a rubber duck and watch it race, enjoy live music, and stroll the beautiful gardens. read more

Love Your Mother Festival

Bring the family to the annual Love Your Mother Festival - Historic Downtown Sanford's Earth Day celebration.  Learn about local environmental nonprofit organizations and peruse 20+ Earth-friendly vendors at the Love Your Mother market in front of the brewery on 1st Street. There will be fun Earth Day activities for the kiddos, food trucks, and live music! read more

St. Luke’s Spring Fling

Join St. Luke’s on campus for a celebration of the season. This free family-friendly event promises an afternoon of fun, fellowship, and springtime festivities. From water slides and colorful crafts to yard games and delicious refreshments, there’s something for everyone. read more

Summerlake Park Grand Opening

Wednesday, April 17, 2024

Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings and District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson invite you, your family and friends to attend the Summerlake Park Grand Opening. This park features a new covered play area. read more

Central Florida Earth Day

Saturday, April 20, 2024

Lake Eola's annual Earth Day event includes food preparation demonstrations, environmental education exhibits and activities, Earth kids zone, artist corner, animal haven, Mind Body Spirit classes, vendors, and more. read more

Earth Day Family Day at A&H

Families are invited to celebrate our "home sweet home" at A&H's FREE Earth Day Family Day plus a Printed Tote Bag Family Art Workshop where children can play with colors and patterns while using paint to "print" their own tote bags with recycled objects. read more

Pirates and Princess Extravaganza

Ahoy, mateys and royalty alike! Set sail for adventure at the Pirates & Princess Extravaganza, a swashbuckling day filled with treasure hunts, royal revelries, and photos with your favorite characters. read more

St. Cloud Earth Day Celebration

Join the City of St. Cloud for an Earth Day celebration featuring local vendors, crafts for all ages, food trucks, the shred truck, eco presentations, face painting, and more. read more

YMCA Healthy Kids Day

This free community event is taking place at several YMCA locations around Central Florida. Activities vary by location and include family friendly group exercises, crafts, games, obstacle courses, and more. read more

Anti-Hackathon

Sunday, April 21, 2024

Learn how keep yourself safe online and to prevent being hacked, cyberbullied, scammed and trafficked while playing games, shopping, eating, and listening to speakers and music. read more

Casselberry Earth Fest & Arbor Day Celebration

Saturday, April 27, 2024

At Earth Fest, guests can enjoy free tree givewaways, workshops, Earth-friendly booths, recycled art show, butterfly releases, live entertainment, and kids activities. read more

Florida Puerto Rican Parade and Festival

This parade & festival celebrate Puerto Rican culture, heritage, and achievements throughout our community. Parade begins at 11am, followed by the festival which includes a kids play area, vendors, and food. read more

Winter Park Earth Day Block Party

Families can celebrate Earth Day with activities at Ward Park & across the street at the Center for Health & Wellbeing. read more

Apopka Art & Foliage Festival

April 27-28, 2024

This free community festival features locally grown foliage, arts and crafts, live entertainment, and more.  For the little ones there will be a Home Depot Kids Zone with a hay bale maze, face painting, make-and-take craft stations, and a butterfly tent. read more

Mount Dora Blueberry Festival

The local blueberry industry is celebrated during the peak of blueberry season in Lake County at this annual event. Local blueberry farms will sell berries freshly picked from their farms along with fresh blueberry products. Crafters, live music, pancake breakfast, blueberry beer, wine, and a blueberry pie eating contest will also be featured at this free event. read more

St. Johns River Festival of the Arts

The annual St. Johns River Festival of the Arts includes arts demos and workshops for all ages, live entertainment, chalk art, and a Culinary Arts Court with gourmet food. read more

Caribbean Fusion Festival

Sunday, April 28, 2024

This family festival features food, music, arts and crafts, and children's activities. read more

Disney Springs Kids Club

Saturdays in April

Visit Disney Springs for a special Kids Club event each Saturday, featuring interactive family fun. Activities include Flight Crew: a high-energy dance party with jump rope routines and acrobatics; Wassalou Drum Circle: create music with this vibrant Afropop band; and play games like limbo and hula hoops with DJ "KD Queen." read more

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sports Cowboys

Everything we learned about the Dallas Cowboys from 2024 NFL league meetings

See what jerry and stephen jones had to say about the cowboys’ offseason..

By SportsDay Staff

9:55 PM on Mar 27, 2024 CDT

The busy stretch of 2024 NFL league meetings has concluded.

Some of the key highlights included free-agency thoughts from Jerry and Stephen Jones, Mike McCarthy’s season focus and a few rule changes. Here’s a rundown of what we learned about the Dallas Cowboys this week:

What Jerry, Stephen had to say about free agency

Since the start of free agency, the Cowboys have lost six starters. Is Jerry Jones defensive about the team’s erosion of talent? Not at all.

The Cowboys owner and general manager feels the team still has plenty of talent returning for the 2024 season. Veteran linebacker Eric Kendricks is the team’s only outside addition at this stage to offset the losses.

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“That is really the gist of what we’re about this year,’’ Jerry Jones said. “We’ve got Dak. We want to get it done. I think we have been in a situation where we can get it done with less.

“More doesn’t necessarily beat Green Bay. I’m talking about players, but there are other things. Maybe having it better strategically in different spots, but more doesn’t necessarily beat them, either.

“We’re going to have to do some things different because we’ve got some different faces.’’

Stephen Jones doesn’t feel like Dallas’ quiet free agency approach compromises its offseason blueprint. The Cowboys face questions around the offensive line, defensive tackle, linebacker and running back.

Do those questions increase the pressure to hit in the first two days of the NFL draft? Stephen agrees with that premise.

“Yeah, but I think the draft aligns a little bit with our needs,’’ he said. “I think the deepest position in this draft is offensive line.’’

Related: What Cowboys’ Stephen Jones said about free agency, possibility of high-pressure NFL draft

Why Tyron Smith isn’t in Dallas

One of the franchise’s cornerstones found a new home this offseason. Jerry Jones likened the departure of Tyron Smith to that of DeMarcus Ware.

After 13 dominant seasons in Dallas, Smith will continue his career with the New York Jets. The Cowboys have faced difficult personnel decisions this offseason based on their payroll. Smith topped the list.

The $6.5 million guarantee the Pro Bowl left tackle received on his one-year deal in New York is very reasonable. It’s the incentive package that could push his cap hit to just under $20 million that gave the Cowboys pause.

“You know how highly he is thought of by us,” Jones said. “We can’t afford that. We can’t afford that.

“If he makes all of these incentives and things like that, we would be really wrecked.”

Related: Jerry Jones: Incentive-based contract for Tyron Smith would have wrecked Cowboys’ cap

Rule changes coming to the league

A major special teams change is coming to the NFL.

Club owners voted Tuesday to adopt a new kickoff, hoping to address last year’s 22% kickoff return rate. The new sequence would call the entire kickoff team, aside from the kicker at his own 35-yard line, to stand at an opponent’s 40-yard line. Those 10 players cannot move until the kicked ball reaches an opponent or hits the ground in a designated landing zone, between the goal line and 20-yard line.

At least nine members of the return team must align in a 5-yard area, called the setup zone, between their own 25- and 30-yard line. A maximum of two returners can stand in the landing zone.

On Monday, owners voted to eliminate the hip-drop tackle. A violation of that rule will result in a 15-yard penalty and could ultimately result in fines for players.

Some of the other notable changes involved tweaks to the instant replay system. Teams now get a third challenge if one of their first two challenges is successful — instead of both — and a few more types of plays are subject to replay. There were less than a dozen games in the regular season and playoffs last season when a coach used both challenges and was successful on only one.

Replay can now determine whether a snap got off before the game clock expired, can advise officials on the field on certain elements of roughing the passer and intentional grounding and can overrule an incorrect call on the field that a passer was down or out of bounds before throwing a pass.

Young players have offseason surgeries

Mazi Smith and Luke Schoonmaker both underwent shoulder surgeries this offseason. Mike McCarthy said Smith had his procedure shortly after the season ended in January.

The recovery comes with a four- to six-month timetable, which jeopardizes Smith’s availability during the spring workout program. He is expected to be ready for training camp.

Schoonmaker could be limited in the spring following a surgery that occurred more recently. But he will be “all systems go” for training camp, a person familiar with the situation said.

Jerry discusses Dak Prescott’s lawsuit

Jerry Jones does not appear to be overly concerned about the legal issues surrounding Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott.

Prescott filed a lawsuit in Collin County on March 11 accusing a Fort Worth woman of making a false sexual assault allegation in an attempt to extort $100 million from him. Prescott, who denied the allegation, lives in Prosper.

“We are very knowledgeable of it,” Jones told reporters Tuesday at the NFL league meetings in Orlando, Fla. “Not uncomfortable with it in any way. Hate it that the issue has to have any negative aspect to it all for everybody concerned. I can say that we’re just very aware of the details and very comfortable.”

Related: Jerry Jones comments on Cowboys QB Dak Prescott lawsuit, sexual assault allegation

McCarthy focused on the ‘big picture’

It’s an important offseason for Mike McCarthy, who enters the fifth campaign of his five-year deal. How does he feel about his current situation?

“I don’t see it as more pressure,’’ McCarthy said. “I think it’s just the reality of our industry. That’s what it is. Those are business decisions and those are really personal, frankly, because we are subcontractors when it comes to the financial component of it.

“You can’t lose sight of the big picture. Make no bones about it. I am extremely blessed to be here. I’m very much engaged where my feet are and the opportunities I’ve had personally.

“I’m very blessed. I never lose sight of that.’’

The Cowboys coach also seems optimistic about the team’s chances after its offseason losses. He pointed to the team’s draft and develop philosophy as a reason to stay positive.

“What’s the definition of a starter?’’ McCarthy asked. “As you do lose players, particularly guys who have moved on for larger financial packages, the number of plays they play is now being replaced by two or three players.

“If your roster is built the right way, the development of the young guys that may have played 15 plays a game may increase to 45 or 50. Ultimately, maybe you want to have the 70- to 75-play a game player that, to me, would be in the line of a starter.

“The biggest impact on our football team will come from the players who are currently on the roster. We’ve got a draft class coming in. We’ll continue to be involved in free agency.’’

Related: Cowboys’ Mike McCarthy isn’t losing sight of ‘big picture’ through change-filled offseason

Cowboys still believe in Prescott’s Super Bowl chances

The Cowboys remain in confident in Dak Prescott’s ability to lead them to a title.

While Jones spoke of Prescott’s importance and expressed his belief in the quarterback, he avoided any discussion of an extension other than making the point that a decision there would impact the team’s payroll five years out.

“I think there are a handful or more of quarterbacks playing who haven’t won a Super Bowl that will win a Super Bowl,’’ Jones said. “I think Dak is one of them. I’m firm there.”

“He’s one of the ones who can.’’

Find more Cowboys coverage from The Dallas Morning News here .

SportsDay Staff

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When is the 2024 total solar eclipse? Your guide to glasses, forecast, where to watch.

Editor's note: An early cloud forecast for the April 2024 total solar eclipse is in. Read the latest eclipse forecast and news .

We're less than two weeks away from the astronomical event of the decade: A total eclipse of the sun , which will grace the nation's skies from Texas to Maine on the afternoon of Monday, April 8 .

Millions of people are expected to travel to see the spectacle, which will also attract scientists from across the country to study its unique effects on the Earth and its atmosphere . (Meanwhile, brands such as Burger King, Pizza Hut, Applebee's and Sonic are getting in on the eclipse excitement too.)

The full total solar eclipse experience will plunge people along a narrow path into darkness midday, but people outside the path of totality could still use eclipse glasses to see the moon pass in front of the sun. It's an awesome and confusing sight on the ground and in the sky.

It should go without saying: Don't drive while wearing eclipse glasses

One task to do now is to get yourself a pair of special eclipse glasses (and luckily there's still time to score a free pair of eclipse glasses ). They're important eyewear during an eclipse because they will block out the sun's harmful rays, which could damage your eyes when you're looking at the sun — even if it's partially blocked.

Solar eclipse glasses are still readily available from plenty of vendors across the internet as of Thursday, March 28. But be wary of counterfeit or fake glasses , experts warned.

The other big factor everyone's anxiously awaiting is the weather forecast, which most experts say is still a bit far away for a specific forecast. But more detailed, realistic forecasts will start to roll in over the next few days.

Of particular interest will be the cloud forecast , as a deck of thick, low clouds would likely ruin the entire event. But if the clouds are higher up in the atmosphere, such as thin, wispy cirrus , they'd act to diffuse but not ruin the eclipse.

USA TODAY 10Best: 10 solar eclipse fun facts to share with your friends

There's plenty to know before the big day, which won't happen again for about two decades . Read on for answers for all your eclipse questions, including how to watch the eclipse , understand the eclipse and use eclipse glasses to stay safe .

WATCHING THE APRIL 2024 ECLIPSE

How do i watch the 2024 solar eclipse.

There are a few ways of watching the eclipse:

• Get the full experience in person : If you're in a narrow band of U.S. land that spans from Texas to Maine, you could see the moon block the sun and its shadow cast a night-like darkness over Earth for a few minutes. You'll briefly be able to look up without eye protection and see the moon block the sun.
• Watch from outside the path of totality : Much of the U.S. is set to get a partial view of the eclipse that isn't nearly as impressive as being in the path of totality. Earth won't be plunged into complete darkness and you'll have to wear protective eyewear to see the moon partially block the sun.
• Watch a livestream : Check back on April 8 for a video feed from the path of totality. It's not the same as being there in person, but hey, at least you won't have to sit in traffic .

Totality explained: The real April 2024 total solar eclipse happens inside the path of totality

What time is the solar eclipse on April 8?

The eclipse will begin in Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT and end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT, but the exact time of the eclipse varies by where you are in its path.

You can search by zip code to find the exact time for your location.

Where will the April eclipse be visible?

All of the lower 48 U.S. states will see the moon at least clip the sun, but that sight is a trifle compared to being in the path of totality.

Because the narrow path includes or is near some of the nation's largest cities, expect millions of people to crowd into a band of land a little over 100 miles wide that spans from the Texas/Mexico border to the Maine/Canada border.

Here are the major cities in each state where you can expect to experience totality (note that the included times do not account for when the partial eclipse begins and ends):

• Dallas, Texas: 1:40-1:44 p.m. CDT
• Idabel, Oklahoma: 1:45-1:49 p.m. CDT
• Little Rock, Arkansas: 1:51-1:54 p.m. CDT
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: 1:56-2:00 p.m. CDT
• Paducah, Kentucky: 2-2:02 p.m. CDT
• Carbondale, Illinois: 1:59-2:03 p.m. CDT
• Evansville, Indiana: 2:02-2:05 p.m. CDT
• Cleveland, Ohio: 3:13-3:17 p.m. EDT
• Erie, Pennsylvania: 3:16-3:20 p.m. EDT
• Buffalo, New York: 3:18-3:22 p.m. EDT
• Burlington, Vermont: 3:26-3:29 p.m. EDT
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: 3:27-3:30 p.m. EDT
• Caribou, Maine: 3:32-3:34 p.m. EDT

Will clouds block the April 2024 eclipse?

It's too soon to say for sure, but history offers some clues.

Chances of cloudy skies are pretty high along much of the eclipse's northern path, and some areas such as Buffalo have about a 1-in-3 chance of clear skies in early April.

Skies are usually more clear to the south. Right along the Texas/Mexico border, chances of a clear sky can be nearly 75%.

However, early forecasts tell a different story — although forecaster caution it's too early for truly accurate forecasts.

Keep in mind that clouds don't always ruin an eclipse . High, wispy clouds won't spoil the show in the same way that low thick clouds would. In that case, you wouldn't be able to see the moon pass in front of the sun, but you would still notice a sudden darkness in the path of totality.

What dangers are associated with the eclipse?

The  eclipse , as exciting and fun as it promises to be, comes with a growing number of safety warnings — both for what will happen in the sky and what will happen on the ground.

In addition to the dangers of looking at the eclipse without proper eyewear, we've heard warnings about potentially dangerous  fake eclipse glasses , the possibility for increased  car  c rashes  around the time of the eclipse — and possible  air travel headaches  due to delayed or cancelled flights.

Where is the best place to watch the eclipse?

In the weeks leading up to the eclipse, Texas was considered the best state for eclipse viewing . Historically, there's a good chance the skies will be clear and its location along the southern path of the eclipse means totality will last a little longer. That could change as the forecast evolves .

A few lucky travelers will also have a front-row seat with unobstructed views — from a plane .

Will traffic be bad?

Most likely, yes — especially after the eclipse ends . Millions of people will crowd into the narrow path of totality, then many will attempt to leave all at once as soon as the eclipse is over.

When a total solar eclipse passed over the U.S. in 2017, reports say some traffic jams didn't fully clear for more than 12 hours. Even worse, a recent study reported that the 2017 eclipse "was associated with increased risks of a fatal traffic crash" – potentially as much as a 31% increase, the study said .

Also worth noting: The eclipse is expected to have impacts for air travel as well.

Cities across the eclipse's path of totality are also bracing for an influx of visitors who are already booking up hotels and short-term vacation rentals , officials have told USA TODAY. "Hotels are almost sold out," said Shalissa Perry, the chief marketing officer for Downtown Dallas.

Why are schools closing for the eclipse?

Primarily out of a concern for students' safety, schools across the country have given students  the day of the eclipse, April 8,  as a day off, a half day or a chance for e-learning. In Tennessee, for example, officials also say it gives students a chance  to experience the eclipse with their family and friends .

What's it like to watch a solar eclipse from space?

Ever wondered what it is like see the  solar eclipse  from space? NASA scientist and veteran astronaut Terry Virts has witnessed the spectacle in space .

"When I was in space in 2015, we saw an eclipse over the North Atlantic," Virts told USA TODAY this week. "It was an eclipse that very few humans saw I think, but it was a really unique experience to look down and just see this big black circle kind of moving across the planet."

"It was unlike anything I've ever seen," Virts adds. "I joke I'm glad they told us there was an eclipse because it would have been unsettling to look down at Earth and see this black spot moving across. It was really cool."

Virts, who is the face of  Sonic's eclipse-themed Blackout Slush Float , said that though he's seen one eclipse from space and many from Earth, he is super excited about the upcoming one on April 8.

UNDERSTANDING THE 2024 ECLIPSE

What is a solar eclipse definition explained..

A total solar eclipse happens when three celestial spheres — the sun, moon and Earth — line up in a specific way in space.

According to NASA, a solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth. That alignment casts a moving shadow on Earth that either fully or partially blocks the sun's light in some areas. This leads to a period of partial or full darkness on a narrow stretch of Earth. 

The path is so narrow because of the huge distance and size of the sun — as well as the moon's distance from Earth. That focuses the moon's shadow on an area of land much smaller than the moon itself. The movement of the shadow across the land happens as the Earth's rotation interacts with the orbit of the moon.

A total eclipse only happens occasionally because the moon doesn't orbit in the exact same plane as the sun and Earth do. In addition, a solar eclipse can only happen during a new moon.

What's special about a total solar eclipse?

The total solar eclipse on April 8  is causing such a stir because the rare event is an astronomical experience like no other that will be unusually accessible to millions of people.

April's total solar eclipse will fall over more places in the U.S. than the total eclipse before and after it. And the broad length of the path of totality – where Americans have the best shot of getting a clear view – is "much wider"  than it was for the eclipse in 2017 , according to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

A total solar eclipse is also far more impressive  than a lunar or an annular solar eclipse. During an annular eclipse, the moon covers the Sun but leaves an outside ring some call a "ring of fire" — it darkens the sky instead of plunging Earth into a night-like darkness, which is what happens during a total solar eclipse. And a lunar eclipse – the appearance of a red moon – happens when the moon passes into the Earth's shadow, according to NASA.

Total solar eclipses can have spiritual significance, too . Ancient cultures viewed as a sign of the gods' anger or impending departure. Some religions today are hosting eclipse viewings and services.

Historically, eclipses have left major marks on religious and spiritual civilizations. In Christianity, an eclipse has been associated with the darkness that accompanied Jesus' crucifixion and in Islam, the passing of the Prophet Muhammad's son Ibrahim.

When was the last solar eclipse?

The USA's most recent total solar eclipse was on August 21, 2017, and stretched from Oregon to South Carolina.

When will the next solar eclipse happen?

The  next visible total solar eclipse  to cross over the U.S. after April will come in more than two decades on Aug. 23, 2044, according to NASA.

And that eclipse won't be as accessible as the 2024 one: The path of totality in 2044 will only touch the states of Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society, a nonprofit involved in research, public outreach and political space advocacy. Another total eclipse  will pass over the U.S. in 2045  that will be more accessible to Americans, including for people who live in California, Florida and Nevada.

ECLIPSE GLASSES AND SAFETY

What are eclipse glasses and why are they needed for the eclipse.

Gazing at the bright rays from the eclipse without  protective eyewear  can seriously damage your eye, so wearing a pair of protective glasses is important.

There's a technical standard for eclipse glasses, which are designed to block out most light and let you safely see the moon pass in front of the sun: It's called ISO 12312-2 after the International Organization of Standardization.

While there's concerns that not all glasses marketed as eclipse glasses live up to that standard, experts say in the past, the shortcomings haven't been significant .

But as the 2024 eclipse approaches, the American Astronomical Society  has warned that there are some counterfeit and fake eclipse glasses being sold from unverified vendors that would be unsafe to use during the eclipse. They recommend buying from a vetted vendor and testing the glasses before the eclipse.

How do I get solar eclipse glasses?

You should buy from a reputable source who can ship the glasses to you in time for April 8. A guide to last-minute eclipse glasses explains more.

Heads up: The online marketplace is flooded with retailers selling solar eclipse glasses they claim have the NASA seal of approval . Consider that a red flag to look elsewhere.

How can you test eclipse glasses?

NASA shared an easy method to check eclipse glasses at home.

Buyers should put on their glasses and look at a bright light, like a flashlight. If the light is "extremely dim," or doesn't appear at all, the glasses are safe, Susannah Darling, of NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, said in an instructional video. Viewers should be able to see the filament of the lightbulb, not the glow surrounding the bulb.

Can you really go blind watching a solar eclipse?

You could severely damage your eyes . Directly staring at the sun before and after the total eclipse, or watching a partial eclipse outside the path of totality without proper eye protection, can result in permanent damage including blurred and altered vision.

While rare, eye damage from watching a partial eclipse happens in part because a person's natural response to squint when looking at sunlight does not get triggered. In the lead-up to the  April 8 solar eclipse ,  doctors and a rare set of eclipse watchers are warning about  watching this planetary event without adequate eclipse glasses or with the naked eye.

It’s hard for experts to know or even estimate how many people experience eye damage from solar eclipses. Since looking at an eclipse does not cause complete blindness, people with permanent damage may not know they have it or report it to a doctor. The 2017 eclipse , which passed from Oregon to South Carolina, is thought to have caused about 100 cases, according to the  American Astronomical Society .

How can I watch the eclipse without glasses?

If you don't have access to eclipse glasses do not use regular sunglasses — You need a more creative solution for safe viewing, like a pinhole projector .

Welding glasses are not recommended for eclipse viewing .

Should I take dogs or cats to see the eclipse? Is it safe for pets?

An eclipse itself isn't dangerous for domestic animals such as dogs and cats, but experts say it's probably best to not bring pets .

Experts' biggest concern is not what’s happening in the sky but on the ground as crowds of excited and anxious people gather, said Dr. Rena Carlson, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association.

“Rather than the effects of the eclipse, I would be more worried about the excitement and all of the people,” she said.

Another fun way to experience the eclipse: disco balls

Don't just reach for the solar glasses; a disco ball might be a fun and safe way to enhance the total solar eclipse experience .

Inspired by a research paper from European scientists, the Round Rock Public Library in Round Rock, Texas, near Austin, used disco balls during the annular eclipse in October and recommends people do the same for the April 8 eclipse. Officials said the use of a disco ball creates a "party-like atmosphere" to make a solar eclipse event more fun.

The mirrored ball can be placed outside where it can catch the sunlight and reflect it on a shaded wall at least several feet away, or it can be inside near a window to cast reflections of the sun around the room. Youth Services Librarian Andrea Warkentin recommends people get disco balls that have smaller mirrors on them as they will create bigger and better images.

"It's a way to make it really memorable and fun for little kids who may not really understand what's going on in the sky," Warkentin said.

-Fernanda Figueroa, Austin American-Statesman

Contributing: Ramon Padilla, Karina Zaiets and Janet Loehrke

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