When you call Seminole County home, it’s easy to forget you’re living in a place others dream of visiting. With Thanksgiving around the corner, many of us are preparing to welcome family and friends—and there’s no better way to showcase our community than by exploring the local treasures that make it unique. Sure, we’re close to Orlando’s famous theme parks, but if your family has been there, done that, or you’re looking to keep things budget-friendly, there’s a wealth of local adventures right here in Seminole County that are every bit as memorable.
Whether it’s discovering new places or revisiting familiar favorites, these activities will have everyone—from locals to out-of-towners—falling in love with all our area has to offer.
Things to Do with Adults
- Enjoy Live Music at Celery City Craft or Tuffy’s Bottle Shop
Both spots offer a fantastic selection of craft beers, ciders, and cocktails, with Tuffy’s outdoor garden often hosting live music. - Topgolf Lake Mary
Perfect for a night out with friends or family, Topgolf combines food, drinks, and a friendly competition for all skill levels. - Explore the Sanford Historic District Shops & Breweries
A stroll through the historic district offers unique shops, art galleries, and local breweries like Deviant Wolfe, Dees Brothers Brewing, and Wop’s Hops, making for a relaxed afternoon or evening. - Rent a cabana at Wekiva Island
Escape to Wekiva Island for a perfect day by the river! This local gem offers kayak and paddleboard rentals, private cabana rentals, scenic views, and cozy spots to relax. Enjoy drinks, picnic areas, and games along the Wekiva River—ideal for a fun, laid-back day surrounded by nature. There is even an art gallery on site to explore! - Painting Classes at Calliope Street
Get creative at Calliope Street in the Oviedo Mall with fun painting classes, complete with wine! Whether you’re a beginner or experienced artist, these classes offer a relaxing, social way to tap into your artistic side while enjoying a glass of wine. Perfect for a creative night out! - Airboat Rides at Black Hammock Adventures
Experience an airboat tour on Lake Jesup, one of the best places to see alligators, then unwind at the on-site bar and restaurant. - River Cruise with St. Johns Rivership Company
Take a scenic cruise along the St. Johns River, complete with dining and entertainment. It’s a unique way for adults to enjoy Seminole County’s waterways in style. - Golf at Mayfair Country Club in Sanford or Timacuan Golf Club in Lake Mary
These courses offer beautiful greens and challenging layouts, perfect for a relaxed day outdoors for golfers of any level. - Horseback Riding at Hidden Palms Ranch
Explore Seminole County’s natural scenery on a guided horseback ride, a unique way to connect with the area’s landscape. - Scenic Stroll on the Sanford RiverWalk
A beautiful paved trail along Lake Monroe, ideal for a relaxing walk with picturesque views. Great for catching a sunset! - Black Bear Wilderness Area
For those looking for a more rugged outdoor experience, this area has scenic trails with the chance to see wildlife like deer and alligators, offering a quieter and more adventurous escape. - Limo Cycle
Hop aboard the Limo Cycle for a pedal-powered tour of downtown Sanford! This BYOB, music-filled ride lets you and your friends cruise through the city in a fun, unique way. It’s the perfect group activity for a celebration or just a lively outing around town
Things to Do with Family (Kid-Friendly)
- Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
A perfect day trip for families, this zoo features a variety of animal exhibits, a beautiful botanical garden, and a splash pad for cooling off. With the thrilling aerial zipline course, the Central Florida Zoo offers a memorable, adventure-filled experience for all ages. The Asian Lantern Festival: Into The Wild will also be going on during the holidays. - Kayaking or Paddleboarding at Wekiva Island
A local favorite, Wekiva Island provides an ideal spot for families to relax, rent kayaks, and paddle along the scenic Wekiva River. With shaded picnic spots, games, and a riverside vibe, Wekiva Island is perfect for a day in nature without straying too far from creature comforts. - Planet Obstacle in Lake Mary
Planet Obstacle, the world’s largest indoor obstacle park, is packed with kid-friendly activities like climbing walls, ninja courses, and zip lines. This indoor park is perfect for children and teens looking for an energetic day of excitement. - Big Tree Park
Home to some of Florida’s oldest and largest trees, Big Tree Park provides a unique nature experience just a short walk away from parking. With picnic tables and a short, easy trail, it’s an ideal place for young children to explore and learn about local wildlife. - Geneva Wilderness Area and Ed Yarborough Nature Center
This nature area offers families an educational adventure with interpretive trails and a nature center showcasing local wildlife. Kids can explore the interactive exhibits and get a closer look at Seminole County’s unique ecosystems. - Bike Ride on the Cross Seminole Trail
This scenic trail is ideal for families who enjoy biking together. You can rent bikes or bring your own and explore miles of paved trail that winds through beautiful wooded areas. - Lake Monroe Fishing & Picnic Areas
For families who love the outdoors, Lake Monroe offers scenic spots to cast a line and enjoy a leisurely day on the water. The lake is an excellent option for fishing or relaxing by the shore with a family picnic. - Oviedo Mall and Altamonte Springs Mall
Both malls feature family-friendly shopping experiences with a range of dining options and entertainment. Oviedo Mall also has an arcade, and Altamonte Springs Mall offers a beautiful outdoor plaza and a movie theater for a complete day out. - Elev8 Fun Sanford
With over 150 arcade games, bowling alleys, thrilling go-kart tracks, laser tag, ropes courses, and mini-golf, Elev8 Fun Sanford guarantees an exciting day for all ages. Known for its vibrant, community-centered space, Elev8 Fun combines family entertainment with a focus on sustainability and community connection. - Escape Artists Orlando in Lake Mary
Families looking for an interactive challenge will love Escape Artists Orlando, which features escape room experiences with themes suitable for all ages. It’s a fun way to bond with the family through teamwork and problem-solving. - Museum of Seminole County History
Discover Seminole County’s rich history with exhibits on pioneer life, Florida’s early settlers, and unique local artifacts. The museum offers a fun, educational outing that gives kids and adults alike a glimpse into Florida’s past.
So this Thanksgiving, instead of just playing host, get out and enjoy what makes Seminole County such a special place to live and visit. Whether you’re spending time by the springs, soaking up local history, or exploring hidden gems in Sanford, each experience is a reminder of how lucky we are to call this area home. Ready to make this holiday unforgettable? Check out our guide to Seminole County’s must-visit spots, and start planning your family’s new favorite traditions!
