Explore The Best Things To Do in Sanford FL.

Sanford, FL is a city that lies on the edge of Lake Monroe, about 30 minutes from Orlando. It is a city that has a lot of history, culture, art, and nature to offer to its visitors and residents. Whether you are looking for historical attractions, cultural events, artistic venues, outdoor adventures, or relaxing activities, you will find plenty of things to do in Sanford, FL.

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Things to do in Sanford FL. 

Here are some of the best things to do in Sanford, FL:

Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens 

3755 W Seminole Blvd, Sanford, FL 32771

If you love animals and plants, you will enjoy visiting the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens, a 116-acre zoo and botanical garden that is home to more than 350 animals from around the world. You can see rhinos, giraffes, leopards, monkeys, exotic birds, and more. You can also explore the Invertebrates, the Herpetarium, and the Barnyard Buddies Children’s Zoo. The zoo also offers educational programs, animal encounters, and special events throughout the year. 

 

Wayne Dench Performing Arts Center

201 Magnolia Ave, Sanford, FL 32771

If you are looking for some cultural entertainment, you can check out the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, a historic theater that hosts a variety of shows and performances. You can watch musicals, plays, concerts, comedy shows, magic shows, ballets, and more. The theater is located in the heart of downtown Sanford, where you can find many restaurants and bars to enjoy before or after the show.

 

St. Johns Rivership Co.

433 N Palmetto Ave, Sanford, FL 32771

If you want to experience the scenic beauty of the St. Johns River, you can book a cruise with the St. Johns Rivership Co., a company that offers lunch and dinner cruises on a paddle-wheel boat. You can savor a tasty meal, listen to live music, and admire the river and its wildlife. Make sure you book your spot in advance.

 

Sanford Museum

520 E 1st St, Sanford, FL 32771

If you are interested in learning more about the history of Sanford and its people, you can visit the Sanford Museum, a small but informative museum that showcases artifacts, photographs, documents, and exhibits related to Sanford’s past. You can learn about the city’s founding, its development, famous residents and visitors, and more. The museum also hosts lectures, workshops, and tours throughout the year.

 

Sanford Riverwalk 

E Seminole Blvd, Sanford, FL 32771

The Sanford Riverwalk is a paved path that runs along the edge of Lake Monroe in the heart of Sanford. The trail also connects you to parks, picnic areas, and fishing spots. Along the way, you can see the historic buildings and monuments of the city as well as views of Lake Monroe and the surrounding wildlife.

 

Hollerbach’s German Restaurant

201-205 E 1st St, Sanford, FL 32771

 

Lower Wekiva River State Preserve

8300 FL-46, Sanford, FL 32771

The Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park is a 18, 000-acre park that conserves a part of the Wekiva River and its diverse ecosystems. You can paddle on the river, which is a National Wild and Scenic River, and spot wildlife such as alligators, otters, turtles, birds, and more. You can also explore the park’s natural beauty on foot or by bike on the trails that go through different habitats such as sandhills, scrub, hardwood hammocks, and wetlands. Also bring your own horse and camp at the park’s equestrian campground.

 

Historic Downtown Sanford 

214 Sanford Ave, Sanford, FL 32771

Visit Sanford’s historic downtown district, which is brimming with stores, galleries, cafés, breweries, and pubs, to get a sense of the city’s charm and personality. At the many boutiques and shops, you may explore for antiques, artwork, clothes, jewelry, and more. Aside from their history and architecture, the structures from the late 19th and early 20th centuries are worth admiring. You may also participate in any of the several annual events and festivals held in downtown Sanford, including the Sanford Art Walk, Alive After 5 Street Party, Sanford Craft Beer Festival, and more.

 

Black Bear Wilderness Area 

5301 Michigan Ave, Sanford, FL 32771

If you want to see some of Florida’s native wildlife, you can visit the Black Bear Wilderness Area, a 1,600-acre preserve that is home to black bears, river otters, alligators, and more. You can hike on the 7.1-mile loop trail that circles the preserve and offers views of the St. Johns River and its wetlands. You can also fish from the bank or from your canoe or kayak while on the river.

 

Wop’s Hops Brewing Company 

419 S Sanford Ave, Sanford, FL 32771

If you are a fan of craft beer, you can check out Wop’s Hops Brewing Company, Sanford’s first microbrewery. You can sample a variety of beers brewed on site, such as ales, stouts, porters, IPAs, and more. You can also enjoy some food from the brewery’s menu, which features burgers, sandwiches, salads, and more. The brewery has dog-friendly beer and food on the menu for your furry companions. 

 

Katie’s Wekiva River Landing 

262 Wekiva Park Dr, Sanford, FL 32771

If you want to launch your own canoe or kayak on the Wekiva River, you can go to Katie’s Wekiva River Landing, a facility that offers a launch site and parking for non-motorized watercraft. You can paddle upstream or downstream on the river and enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife of the area. You can also bring your fishing gear and try your luck on the river. Katie’s Wekiva River Landing also has restrooms, picnic tables, and grills for your convenience.

 

Jeanine Taylor Folk Art 

211 E 1st St, Sanford, FL 32771

If you appreciate folk art and local artists, you can visit Jeanine Taylor Folk Art, a gallery that specializes in contemporary folk art from Florida and the Deep South. You can see a variety of artworks made from different materials and techniques, such as paintings, sculptures, pottery, quilts, and more. You can also meet some of the artists and learn about their stories and inspirations. The gallery also hosts workshops and events throughout the year.

 

Historic Sanford Welcome Center 

230 E 1st St, Sanford, FL 32771

If you need some information and guidance for your visit to Sanford, you can stop by the Historic Sanford Welcome Center, a non-profit organization that serves as a communications hub for the City of Sanford. You can get brochures, maps, recommendations, and tips from the friendly staff and volunteers. You can also learn about the events and activities that are happening in Sanford and how to join them. The welcome center also hosts its own events and programs, such as the Alive After 5 Street Party, which is held every second Thursday of the month.

 

Seminole Aerial Adventures 

3755 W Seminole Blvd, Sanford, FL 32771

If you are looking for some thrill and excitement, you can try Seminole Aerial Adventures, a zipline and ropes course that is located inside the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens. There are two different courses offered here, the kids course or the Upland course for adults. 

 

U Sail 

531 North Palmetto Avenue A Dock, Sanford, FL 32771

If you have always dreamed of learning how to sail, you can make it happen at U-Sail of Central Florida, a sailing school that offers lessons and rentals on Lake Monroe. You can learn the basics of sailing from certified instructors as well as build upon your sailing knowledge, and become certified in multiple aspects of sailing. Certified or experienced individuals can also rent a sailboat and practice their skills alone or with friends. 

 

Limo Cycle Tours 

303 W 3rd St, Sanford, FL 32771

If you want to have some fun with your friends or family, you can join a Limo Cycle Tour, a pedal-powered party bus that takes you around downtown Sanford. You can bring your own beverages, snacks, and enjoy music along the way. You can also choose from different themes and routes, such as pub crawls, dinner tours, ghost tours, team-building tours, and more. Limo Cycle Tours provides a driver, a server, ice-filled coolers, and cups for your convenience.

 

Sylvan Lake Park 

845 Lake Markham Rd, Sanford, FL 32771

If you are looking for a place to play sports or have a picnic, you can go to Sylvan Lake Park, a local park that offers various facilities and amenities. Play soccer, tennis, volleyball, basketball, or racquetball at the park’s many courts and fields. You can also enjoy a picnic at one of the park’s pavilions or tables. There is a fishing pier at Sylvan Lake Park where you can also enjoy fishing and the views of Sylvan Lake along with its wildlife.

 

Fort Mellon Park 

600 E 1st St, Sanford, FL 32771

If you are looking for a place to cool off and have some fun in the water, you can go to Fort Mellon Park, a local park that features a large splash pad with water bubblers. The park also has a playground, a picnic area, a basketball court and a fitness trail.

 

Sanford Residential Historic District  

Sanford Avenue, 14th Street, Elm Avenue, and 3rd Street

If you want to admire some of the most beautiful and historic homes in Sanford, you can visit the Sanford Residential Historic District, a neighborhood that showcases more than 400 buildings that date from the late 1800s to the 1900s. You can see a variety of architectural styles. You can also learn about the history and significance of some of the houses from the plaques that are installed outside of them.

 

Map of Things to do in Sanford FL. 

 

Final Thoughts 

These are just some of the many things to do in Sanford, FL. Whether you are looking for nature, culture, or entertainment, you will find something to enjoy in this historic city. Sanford is a great Central Florida destination to explore. So what are you waiting for? Make your plans around Sanford today!