Sanford, Florida, is a city that boasts a diverse array of outdoor activities and attractions you can enjoy solo, with friends and family, or with your four-legged friends. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day spent in nature, an adrenaline-filled adventure, or an educational experience, Sanford has something for everyone. Here are five of the best things to do in the great outdoors in Sanford:
Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens
The Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a must-visit for nature lovers, offering the chance to get up close and personal with a wide variety of animals from around the world. We're talking over 400 animals, among them such exotic species as tigers, primates, and reptiles, as well as indigenous Florida wildlife, including alligators and panthers.
The botanical gardens are a peaceful oasis within the zoo, offering a lush and tropical environment in which to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Visitors can take guided tours, watch animal encounters, or simply stroll through the zoo at their own pace, taking in the sights and sounds. It's recommended that you research beforehand the animals you'd like to see and when the best time is to see them. The zoo offers various animal encounters and shows throughout the day, so check the schedule and plan your visit accordingly.Â
Katie's Wekiva River Landing
Katie's Wekiva River Landing is one of Sanford's most unique outdoor destinations, offering a plethora of adventures, such as canoeing, kayaking, and tubing along the tranquil Wekiva River. Visitors can rent canoes or kayaks and explore the river at their own pace or join a guided tour to see the sights and learn about the local ecosystem.Â
Katie's Wekiva River Landing is also a great place for picnicking and enjoying the scenic beauty of the area. The park features several picnic spots, a playground, and plenty of open spaces for playing and exploring. As the river's conditions are always changing, be sure to check with park staff or local authorities to ensure that the water is safe for canoeing, kayaking, or tubing. Don't forget your life jackets, as they're required for all water activities. Don't worry if you don't have your own - you can rent one from the park.Â
Paw Park
Paw Park is a dog-friendly park located in Sanford. It offers a safe and fun space for dogs to play and exercise, making it the perfect destination for dog owners and their furry friends. The park features several large fenced-in areas for dogs to run around and play, as well as water stations, shaded areas, and plenty of space for dog owners to relax and catch up with friends or enjoy the surrounding beauty.Â
Paw Park also features a dog wash station, making it easy to clean up after a fun day of play and before jumping back into your truck to head home. If you're planning to bring your pooch to the park, here are a few tips:
- Bring proof of vaccinations: To ensure the safety of all dogs, visitors are required to provide proof of current vaccinations for their dogs.Â
- Supervise your dog at all times: To ensure the safety of all dogs and visitors, it's important to supervise your dog at all times while in the park.Â
- Clean up: To keep the park clean, visitors are required to clean up after their dogs. Be sure to bring waste bags and dispose of any waste properly.Â
- Bring water: To ensure that your dog stays hydrated, be sure to bring water for your dog to drink.
The Sanford RiverWalk
 The Sanford RiverWalk is a popular outdoor destination for those who enjoy nature walks and outdoor recreation. Set along the beautiful Sanford River, the trail offers breathtaking views of the water and the surrounding area. The RiverWalk is a great place for a leisurely stroll, a picnic with friends and family, or a scenic run. Along the way, you'll find several parks and public spaces that offer opportunities to relax and enjoy the outdoors, along with picnic areas and playgrounds. The RiverWalk is also a hub for outdoor activities and events, including concerts, festivals, and fitness classes. If you're planning to visit the Sanford RiverWalk, it's recommended that you wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated, especially on hot days. The RiverWalk offers several water fountains along the trail, so be sure to bring a refillable water bottle to stay refreshed.Â
Fort Mellon Park
Fort Mellon Park is a historic and scenic park on the shores of Lake Monroe with a variety of outdoor activities and attractions. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, fishing, and boating on the lake, or you can take a stroll along the scenic walkways. The park also has a playground, several picnic areas, and a band shell, making it the perfect place for a family outing.Â
The park is also a great place for history buffs, as it's named after a military fort that was built during the Seminole Wars in the 1800s. Today, you can see remnants of the fort, including the fort's old walls and a historical marker that provides fascinating information about the fort's history. If you're planning a visit to Fort Mellon Park, here are some tips for your trip:
- Bring your own equipment: If you plan on fishing or boating, be sure to bring your own, as the park doesn't provide equipment.Â
- Pack a picnic: There are several picnic areas within the park, making it the perfect place for an outdoor meal.Â
- Bring bug spray: Some parts of the park can be buggy, so be sure to bring bug spray to keep yourself comfortable.
So, there you have it. We've shared five of the best things to do outdoors in Sanford, Florida. How did you like our list? Did we miss a favorite of yours? If we did, let us know. Drop us a line at Gibson Truck World and we'll be sure to add it to our list so we can make sure we're giving our customers the best advice for exploring Sanford in style.