Sanford
Rich in history and culture and just 30 minutes north of Orlando, the waterfront city of Sanford is a family-friendly destination with plenty of fun for visitors of all ages.
Its location along the south shore of scenic Lake Monroe and the St. Johns River means there is much to do on the water, from fishing and boating to cruises aboard the Rivership Barbara-Lee, and the Downtown Sanford Marina is just a few blocks from the inviting shops and award-winning restaurants of Historic Downtown Sanford.
Getting around town is part of the fun with the city’s free trolly service and Sanford RiverWalk, a 4.5-mile paved path where visitors can bike or walk while enjoying beautiful views of the water. Families with young children won’t want to miss the playground and splash pad at Fort Mellon Park, located along the RiverWalk, and visits to the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, less than five miles from downtown, and Wekiwa Spring State Park, a 35-minute drive from there, are a must.
Visitors can explore the culture, arts, and history of the area by checking out public art installations, exhibits at the Sanford Museum, and St. Johns River Festival of the Arts, which happens in springtime.
Plan your trip to Orlando North and the city of Sanford.
FAMILY FUN
Check out family-friendly attractions and activities.
- Escape Artists
- Seminole Aerial Adventures
- Family-friendly itinerary
- Spring break family activities
- Theme parks
MUSEUMS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
See public art displays, take a ghost tour, and learn about the area’s history.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Hit the trails, explore the parks, and get out on the water.
WATERWAYS
See scenic Lake Monroe from the RiverWalk or on a boat tour.
BEACHES
Sanford is less than an hour from area beaches.
ACCESSIBILITY
Visit the area’s accessible parks and attractions.
DINING
Foodies will delight in Sanford’s selections of restaurants and breweries.
SHOPPING
Shop large retailers at the mall and interesting boutiques and antique stores downtown.
GOLF
Play on the area's sunny greens all year long.
PET-FRIENDLY ADVENTURES
Four-legged family members can join the fun at Sanford's dog-friendly parks, restaurants, and attractions.
PLACES TO STAY
Choose from a variety of accommodation types to suit any travel style or budget.
Video tour of downtown Sanford
Quick Facts
Halfway between Orlando and Daytona
Nearest Airport
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SANFORD
Q. Where is Orlando Sanford International Airport?
A. Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) is located right in the heart of Sanford, Fla., in Seminole County. It's situated about 25 miles northeast of Downtown Orlando, making it a convenient alternative gateway to Central Florida's attractions. The airport is recognized as a major hub for Allegiant Air, serving a large number of domestic and international travelers annually. You can find detailed directions and more information on the official airport website.
Q. Where is Sanford, Fla.?
A. Sanford is a charming city located in Central Florida, nestled on the southern shore of the beautiful Lake Monroe. It serves as the county seat of Seminole County and is one of the oldest incorporated cities in the region. Positioned about 25 miles northeast of Orlando, Sanford offers a wonderful historic atmosphere away from the hustle of the theme parks. You can explore its exact location on Google Maps.
Q. What is there to do in Sanford?
A. Sanford is brimming with activities, especially in its picturesque, historic downtown area with its brick-lined streets and Victorian architecture. You can stroll along the scenic RiverWalk on the shore of Lake Monroe, visit the animals at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, or explore unique shops and art galleries. The city has also become a celebrated destination for craft beer lovers, boasting several acclaimed local breweries worth visiting.
Q. Where is Sanford located?
A. You'll find Sanford in the heart of Central Florida, beautifully positioned along the south side of Lake Monroe, which is part of the St. Johns River. It's the northernmost city in the greater Orlando metropolitan area, located within Seminole County. This prime location provides easy access to Orlando's world-famous attractions while maintaining its own distinct, historic waterfront charm. For a detailed view, take a look at its location on Google Maps.
Q. How far is Sanford from Orlando's theme parks?
A. Sanford offers a great location that's close to the magic but removed from the crowds. It is approximately 35 miles from Walt Disney World, which is typically a 45 to 60-minute drive depending on traffic. The drive to Universal Orlando Resort is a bit shorter, usually around 30 to 40 minutes. This makes Sanford a relaxing home base for your Central Florida theme park adventure.
Q. Are there any good parks or nature trails in Sanford?
A. Absolutely! Sanford is a fantastic spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The city's multi-mile RiverWalk offers stunning views of Lake Monroe for walkers and cyclists. For a more rustic experience, the nearby Black Bear Wilderness Area provides challenging hiking through pristine Florida wetlands. You can also access the Seminole Wekiva Trail, a paved rail-trail perfect for a long bike ride or leisurely stroll.
Q. Can you go boating or fishing on Lake Monroe?
A. Lake Monroe is a paradise for boaters and anglers. As a large lake on the St. Johns River, it's popular for all kinds of watercraft, from powerboats to kayaks and sailboats. The fishing is excellent, with anglers often seeking out the lake's famous largemouth bass and black crappie. Several marinas and public boat ramps around Sanford provide easy access to the water for a perfect day of fun.
Q. What are some family-friendly activities in Sanford?
A. Sanford is a wonderful destination for families looking for fun activities. A must-visit is the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, which features hundreds of animals and a fun splash pad for kids. Fort Mellon Park, located right on the lakefront, has a large playground and plenty of open space to run around. You can also take a family bike ride along the RiverWalk or enjoy a relaxing meal at one of the many casual, family-friendly restaurants downtown.
Q. Does Sanford have a historic downtown?
A. Yes, Sanford is celebrated for its beautiful and vibrant historic downtown. The area features stunning 19th-century architecture, brick-paved streets, and a charming, welcoming atmosphere. Downtown is filled with unique local shops, art galleries, antique stores, and a fantastic selection of independent restaurants and pubs. It's a very walkable district and a perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring Florida's rich history.
Q. Are there any unique restaurants or breweries in Sanford?
A. Sanford has earned a stellar reputation as a food and drink destination in Central Florida. The historic downtown is a hub for craft breweries. It first earned the nickname "Celery City" for its historic celery crop and now for its hoppy brews. You'll find a diverse culinary scene with everything from authentic German food and Southern comfort classics to upscale dining. Exploring the independent restaurants and breweries is a highlight of any visit to Sanford.
Q. What annual events or festivals happen in Sanford?
A. Sanford hosts a lively calendar of events that draw both locals and visitors throughout the year. Popular annual events include the Sanford Porchfest music festival, holiday parades, and various food and craft beer festivals. Be sure to check the city's event calendar to see what's happening during your visit.
Q. Where can I find RV parks or campgrounds near Sanford?
A. There are several great options for camping and RVing in the Sanford area. Nearby Wekiwa Springs State Park offers spacious campsites in a beautiful natural setting with access to crystal-clear springs. You can also find a number of well-equipped private RV parks in and around Sanford that provide full hookups and modern amenities. These locations offer a wonderful way to enjoy the natural beauty of Central Florida.
Q. How far is Sanford from the nearest beach?
A. One of the great things about Sanford's location is its easy access to the Atlantic coast. The nearest beaches, such as famous New Smyrna Beach and Daytona Beach, are just about an hour's drive away. This makes it incredibly easy to plan a day trip to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf. You can spend your morning exploring historic Sanford and be relaxing on the beach by the afternoon.
Q. What is the Sanford RiverWalk?
A. The Sanford RiverWalk is a scenic, multi-use trail that stretches for several miles along the shoreline of Lake Monroe. It's a beloved local landmark perfect for walking, jogging, cycling, or simply sitting on a bench and watching the boats go by. The paved path offers spectacular water views, connecting several parks and the historic downtown district. It's an ideal spot to enjoy a beautiful Florida sunset and is a must-do activity when visiting Sanford.