Driving from St. Augustine to Walt Disney World
Visiting the Sunshine State and want to take a day trip? Making the trip from St Augustine to Disney World is an easy drive and usually takes around 2 hours if you drive straight there. Keep in mind, traffic in the Orlando area is almost unavoidable so it may take a bit longer depending on when you leave. If you want to break up the drive, this route offers a chance to explore some of Florida’s most charming attractions before you arrive at the magic of Disney. Here’s a guide to turn the ride into a fun-filled adventure.
The below guide gives ideas of stops along the way, some are worth a quick stretch, and others are worth a few hours, so be sure to plan the route that is best for your family. It’s also fun to make a stop at Buc-ee’s in either St Augustine or Daytona! It can get very busy but it’s well worth the stop, especially for the cheap gas!
If you’re planning a road trip from St. Augustine to Disney World, you’re in for a treat!
St. Augustine: The Nation’s Oldest City
Before you hit the road, take some time to explore the cobblestone streets in the ancient city of St. Augustine. This historic city is packed with family-friendly activities like:
- Castillo de San Marcos: A 17th-century Spanish fort with stunning views of the bay. Kids will love the reenactments and cannon firings.
- St. George Street: A pedestrian-only street filled with quaint shops, restaurants, and local history. Don’t miss the old-fashioned ice cream shop for a sweet treat before your drive.
- Alligator Farm Zoological Park: Get up close to Florida’s famous reptiles and learn about local wildlife.
- The Lightner Museum: The iconic former Hotel Alcazar, offering an extraordinary collection and an immersive experience of art, architecture, history, and design.
- Flagler College: One of the most picturesque colleges with gorgeous architecture and photo-worthy buildings.
- St George Street: A lively, pedestrian-only thoroughfare lined with historic buildings, unique shops, and cozy restaurants, offering a charming blend of old-world charm and modern attractions.
If you have more than a few hours in St Augustine, be sure to plan a few more experiences!
This city pass is also a great option for exploring the historic sites, landmarks and fun experiences.
Once you’ve soaked in some history in Saint Augustine’s Delightful historic district, it’s time to start your journey south.
Palm Coast: Hammock Beach
About 30 minutes into your drive, take a detour to Hammock Beach Resort for a quick stop. Even if you’re not staying here, the area offers beautiful stretches of beach where the family can enjoy a quiet break. If you have extra time, grab a bite at one of the nearby seafood spots and enjoy views of the Atlantic. If you decide to stay in the area, the beach resort is an incredible option!
Daytona Beach
Just another 30 minutes south of Palm Coast, Daytona Beach is an excellent stop for stretching your legs and soaking up some beach vibes. Famous for its drive-on beaches, Daytona is perfect for a quick family photo op. Depending on your time, you could spend an entire day (or a few days!) here and have plenty to do.
- Visit the Daytona Beach Pier for arcade games and oceanfront views.
- Check out the Daytona International Speedway for a glimpse into the world of NASCAR, especially if you have race fans in the family.
De Leon Springs State Park
For a unique stop about an hour from St. Augustine, visit De Leon Springs State Park. This hidden gem offers natural springs where families can swim and cool off. There’s also the historic Old Spanish Sugar Mill Restaurant, where you can cook your own pancakes at your table—a fun activity for kids and adults alike.
Blue Spring State Park
Another beautiful spot to connect with nature, Blue Spring State Park is about a 30-minute detour west of the main route near Orange City. From November through March, it’s a great place to see manatees, and during warmer months, the clear, spring-fed waters are perfect for swimming, tubing, or kayaking.
Explore Orlando
As you approach Orlando, take a quick break at one of the shopping areas like Orlando Premium Outlets, one of the other theme parks like Universal or Sea World, or take a walk around one of the nearby cities. CityWalk is a fun stop if you want to have a meal, or downtown Orlando has great options as well!
Winter Park
Just north of Orlando, Winter Park is a charming town that offers a relaxed atmosphere before diving into the excitement of Disney World. Take a scenic boat tour through the town’s chain of lakes or stroll along Park Avenue, known for its boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. It’s a nice way to ease into the Orlando area without the hustle and bustle.
Arriving at Disney World
After an exciting road trip filled with fun stops, you’ll arrive at Walt Disney World. Whether you’re heading to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, or any of the other iconic parks, the magic awaits you. If you are staying at a Walt Disney World resort, I recommend heading there as soon as you arrive so you can park the car and leave it until it’s time to head back home! If you are debating which resort to stay in, this guide will tell you everything you need to know!
Other Fun Options
A few other options along your journey that may not have a ton to offer but does have significant landmarks and could still be a lot of fun:
- Fort Matanzas: Take a ferry ride to this national monument.
- Cocoa Beach & Cape Canaveral: The home port of Disney cruises offers a nice beach town with restaurants, beaches, gift shops and pretty views.
- Marineland: Known as the world’s first oceanarium, Marineland has been captivating visitors for a long time. Whether you’re an animal lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a fun family outing, Marineland has something special to offer.
- Old Town Sanford: If you’re looking for a bit of nature amidst the town’s historic charm, Sanford’s location along the St. Johns River and Lake Monroe provides ample opportunities for outdoor fun.
Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Plan for breaks: The trip is only about two hours, but with so many great stops, plan for extra time. You could easily turn the trip into a fun day trip if you wanted to!
- Pack snacks and drinks: While there are plenty of places to eat, having snacks on hand can make the journey smoother, especially for little ones.
- Download entertainment: Florida highways can be long and monotonous, so keep the kids entertained with music, audiobooks, or travel games.
- Check out this post about all the things to prepare to make a road trip a great experience!
Driving from St. Augustine to Disney World offers a unique opportunity to explore some of Florida’s hidden gems. Make the most of your journey, and turn a simple two hour drive into a memorable family adventure!
