Nestled between Orlando and Daytona, is charming and award-winning DeLand. Have you been there? If not, we highly recommend a visit to this quaint New England-style town, home to Stetson University, Florida’s oldest college. And if you have had the pleasure of visiting, then you know what we’re talking about.

So, when the coolness of Winter sets in, and you want a change of scenery, let a visit to DeLand lift your spirits with its excellent offerings of things to do and see… You may find yourself wishing you could stay forever.

1. Stetson Mansion Christmas Tour

Florida’s First Luxury Estate, Stetson Mansion, was built in 1886 to serve as the winter home for hatmaker John Stetson. Still a private estate, it offers seasonal historic tours, including its Christmas Spectacular!, which was featured as a USA Today’s 10 Best, and named the #1 Holiday Home Tour in Florida.

2. Athens Theatre

Designed in 1921 in the Italian Renaissance style by architect Murray S. King, the historic Athens Theater honors its roots by hosting classic and indie films, as well as live theatrical performances.

3. DeLand’s Parks

DeLand is home to some beautiful parkland. Go on a bike ride through charming Lake Beresford Park, then make your way to Blue Springs State Park to visit the manatees, easily viewed from the boardwalk.

4. Highland Park Fish Camp

Take advantage of the waters at Highland Park Fish Camp and rent a boat to spend the day fishing. You can also camp there overnight in a rustic cabin or using the campground.

5. Museum of Art

Get a vibrant culture fix when you experience DeLand’s Museum of Art, with its interactive collection and rotating exhibits or participate in a master artist workshop.

6. Sky Dive

Whether it’s your first skydiving experience or your hundredth, Skydive DeLand offers something for any level. With nearly four decades of experience and expertly developed training programs, their experienced instructors are ready to help your skydiving desires come true.

7. Persimmon Hollow Brewing Co.

A craft brewery located in historic downtown DeLand, Persimmon Hollow Brewing Co.’s motto is “Drink Sensibly, But Get Weird.” Its beers such as Creamsicle Blood Orange Wheat and Hollow Inside let you do just that in a welcoming environment.

8. River Tours

Enjoy the flora and fauna surrounding St. John’s Rivers on Blue Heron River Tours’ Great Blue vessel! Tours allow guests to get a closer look at the area’s ecosystems and wildlife, from alligators, turtles and a wide variety of wading birds.

9. Main Street

Downtown DeLand is an award-winning community with charm to spare. Take some time to visit the local restaurants and boutiques on Main Street to see why.

10. DeLand Events

DeLand hosts a number of festive events you won’t want to miss! Plan on coming down for Bourbon and Blues, DeLand’s Festival of the Arts, the Rotary Christmas Parade or stop by any weekend at the Artisan Farmers Market.

Want To Call Award-Winning DeLand Home? 

While these attractions are alluring, they’re just a taste of what DeLand brings to the table. Schedule your trip to DeLand today and fall in love with all it has to offer – including it’s well-known and highly reputable home builder, Gallery Homes of Deland.

Contact the home building professionals at Gallery Homes online, or call our team directly at (386) 260-0575  to find your dream DeLand home today!