Looking for easy, senior-friendly day trips out of The Villages? This guide rounds up a dozen relaxing escapes—each within two hours—that trade long hikes for shaded strolls, scenic boat rides, museums, gardens, and charming historic districts.
No matter if you’re craving glass-bottom boats at Silver Springs, waterfront views in Mount Dora and Winter Park, manatee overlooks in Crystal River, or a leisurely trolley through St. Augustine, these low-strain Florida day trips keep comfort front and center.
We’ve prioritized destinations with plentiful seating, reliable restrooms, convenient parking, and accessible paths or boardwalks—perfect for most 55+ travelers and visiting guests.
You’ll also find the best seasons to go, simple planning tips, and nearby lunch or coffee picks so you can savor more and stress less.
Ready to make the most of life in Central Florida? Use this list of things to do near The Villages to plan a spontaneous weekday outing or a relaxed weekend road trip—no heavy walking, just easy fun.
The 12 Best Day Trips from The Villages for Seniors
1) Mount Dora & Tavares Waterfront
- Drive: 50–60 min (35–40 miles, via US-441).
- Parking: Mount Dora has free public lots/garage and an on-street 4-hour limit (plus a free downtown shuttle); Tavares’ Wooton Park offers lot & street parking by the seaplane base.
- Why go / easy things to do: Lakefront strolls, watch seaplanes, shady parks, boutiques, cafés.
- Lunch Idea – Pisces Rising – lakeside restaurant with view of lake – we think it is the best restaurant in Mount Dora!
2) Silver Springs State Park (Ocala)
- Drive: ~45–60 min (about 35 miles).
- Parking & entry: State-park day-use fee applies (Florida State Parks lists $8/vehicle; glass-bottom boats additional; fees can vary by entrance—check site).
- Why go / easy things to do: Famous Silver Springs glass-bottom boat tour, gardens, paved paths, shaded river views.
- Lunch Idea – While the park has a decent restaurant (for a state park), we recommend Lena’s Seafood nearby.
3) Crystal River & Three Sisters Springs (boardwalk only)
- Drive: about 70–90 min (55–65 miles).
- Parking: Free parking at Three Sisters Springs Center with shuttle to the refuge boardwalk; no general parking inside the refuge (ADA only).
- Why go / easy things to do: Level boardwalk overlooks clear springs; peak manatee viewing in winter; hop-on shuttle also stops around downtown.
- Lunch Idea – Our favorite place for a true “smashburger” is St. John’s Tavern in downtown Crystal River (just minutes away).
Disclaimer
The information contained in South Florida Reporter is for general information purposes only.
The South Florida Reporter assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions in the contents of the Service.
In no event shall the South Florida Reporter be liable for any special, direct, indirect, consequential, or incidental damages or any damages whatsoever, whether in an action of contract, negligence or other tort, arising out of or in connection with the use of the Service or the contents of the Service.
The Company reserves the right to make additions, deletions, or modifications to the contents of the Service at any time without prior notice.
The Company does not warrant that the Service is free of viruses or other harmful components
