Uncover hidden gems on a budget-friendly SunRail trip through Orlando and beyond.
Ready to explore Orlando beyond the theme parks? Discover local must-do’s and hidden gems via train on a budget-friendly SunRail day trip. We’re uncovering some of the best things to do at each stop, plus free and low-cost transportation options to simplify your getaway. Whether you’re looking for food, art, nature or nightlife, we have a stop for you, with roundtrip train fare starting at just $3.75. All aboard!
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Like many great cities, Orlando owes much of its early development to a fast-growing rail system. Our first train station was built on Church Street in 1880, in what is now a thriving commercial district filled with restaurants, galleries and performing arts centers. Nearby communities like Winter Garden and Winter Park developed as the rails expanded, creating a network of interconnected towns and cities that remain popular with visitors to this day.
Discover: Orlando Transportation
Today, this rich rail history lives on in the SunRail, a state-of-the-art commuter train that offers a fast, affordable and convenient way to explore Orlando and beyond. With 17 stations spanning 61 miles of track, your next adventure is just around the corner. We’re starting our journey at historic Church Street Station, but feel free to start elsewhere if you like! Check the map at the bottom of this post to find the most convenient location to you.
Please note: The SunRail operates from Monday from Friday with limited evening hours. Please check the SunRail website for the latest operating hours and station schedules ahead of your visit.
Start Here: Historic Church Street Station
To kick things off, let’s visit historic Church Street Station, located in downtown Orlando’s bustling City District. Grab a bite to eat, then explore local culture and history at CityArts Gallery or the Orange County Regional History Center. Lake Eola Park is just a few steps away, so head there next for a self-guided art tour, a swan-shaped paddleboat ride, and some of the most iconic views in town.
Discover: Things to Do in City District
If you’d like to catch a show, Kia Center, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts and SAK Comedy Lab are all less than a quarter mile away from the station. Inter&Co Stadium is also within walking distance and Camping World Stadium is a short rideshare away for easy access to soccer, concerts, football and more.
Discover: Orlando Events
If this is your last stop of the night, dining and nightlife await at Mathers Social Gathering, Wall Street Plaza and more downtown Orlando bars. You can also explore evening ghost tours from American Ghost Adventures or Orlando Haunts for a spookier take on our local history.
Northbound SunRail Itinerary
Things to Do Near LYNX Central Station
Just north of Church Street is LYNX Central Station, a convenient gateway to shopping, dining, live arts and more. Sip back and relax with craft brews from À La Cart, caffeinate at Craft & Common, or cuddle with cats at The Kitty Beautiful.
Discover: Things to Do in Parramore
Downtown Orlando’s Creative Village is also a short stroll away. Score handrolls from MICHELIN Bib Gourmand Sushi Saint or buttermilk fried chicken from The Monroe, then snap some fun selfies with the Orlando sign at Luminary Green Park. Lake Eola Park is also accessible from LYNX Central Station, and you’ll find several hotels in the area, perfect for pairing with a late-night show at The Vanguard.
Things to Do Near the AdventHealth SunRail Station
AdventHealth Station gets its name from a nearby hospital, but it’s also the perfect entry point to explore Loch Haven Cultural Park. Discover a wealth of cultural attractions in one scenic location, including the Orlando Science Center, Orlando Shakespeare Theater, Orlando Museum of Art, The Mennello Museum of American Art, Orlando Ballet and Orlando Family Stage.
Discover: Loch Haven Cultural Park
While you could easily visit a museum or two and call it a day, I highly recommend exploring the surrounding neighborhoods as well. Loch Haven Cultural Park is part of the Ivanhoe Village Main Street district, with lakeside shopping and dining just half a mile away. Mills 50® and the Audubon Park Garden District are also a short ride away and are perfect for exploring on foot.
Things to Do Near the Winter Park SunRail Station
Explore Winter Park’s scenic Park Avenue District, where you’ll find museums, dining, galleries and more with plenty of romantic appeal. Think Italian bistros, abundant greenery and cobblestoned streets paired with boutique shopping and small-town charm.
Discover: Things to Do in Winter Park
You’ll find endless dining options on Park Avenue, plus free attractions like the Winter Park History Museum, Rollins Museum of Art and nearby Hannibal Square Heritage Center. The Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour is the perfect way to experience the city in a limited timeframe. If you have more time to spare, The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art and the Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens are also well worth a visit.
Things to Do Near the Maitland SunRail Station
Next up is the Maitland SunRail Station, which is just across the street from The Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center of Florida. The museum is free to explore, with rotating galleries and frequent events and workshops. Timed reservations are required for the permanent gallery, so please plan ahead if you’d like to visit.
Discover even more fantastic finds within 1 mile of the station, including The Art & History Museums of Maitland and several locally owned shops and restaurants. Grab a sandwich at Kappy’s Subs, an Orlando institution for nearly 60 years, or savor inventive fare from Luke’s Kitchen, Parea Greek Taverna or WAVE Sushi. Blackbird Comics & Collectibles is another popular option. And while it’s a little farther away, no visit to Maitland is complete without a film screening at the Enzian Theater.
Things to Do Near the Altamonte Springs SunRail Station
The Altamonte Springs station is an excellent gateway to shopping, dining and outdoor fun, but you’ll likely need a car to get to your final destination. Crane’s Roost Park and uptown Altamonte are just 2 miles away by car, perfect if you’re looking for outdoor dining and a leisurely stroll around the lake.
Discover: Nature & Outdoors
Wekiwa Springs State Park is also nearby, boasting emerald spring water and endless opportunities for swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, hiking and wildlife viewing. If you’re looking for something a little more comfortable, Wekiva Island offers scenic views and outdoor fun paired with a restaurant, boat tours, a picturesque boardwalk and private cabana rentals.
Things to Do Near the Longwood SunRail Station
Longwood’s Historic District is packed with charming homes, unique architecture and small-town eateries, and the SunRail station takes you right to the center of the action. Take a self-guided historic walking tour, relax at Reiter Park, and enjoy art shows, gaming and brewery tours at Hourglass Brewing.
Big Tree Park is nearby, with a trailhead leading to walking, cycling and jogging opportunities on the scenic Cross Seminole Trail. If you’re up for a short car ride, Wekiva Springs is also easily accessible from Longwood. Stop at local favorite 4 Rivers Smokehouse along the way for slow-smoked barbecue, homestyle comfort food and mouthwatering desserts.
Things to Do Near the Lake Mary SunRail Station
Explore shopping, dining and recreation steps from the SunRail station at downtown Lake Mary’s Central Park. This breezy outdoor plaza boasts a beer garden, tiki bar, fresh-squeezed juice, and plenty of room to spread out and soak up the sun. Share a seasonal coffee flight from New City Coffee Co. or explore family-friendly entertainment during First Friday Park Parties, then hop back on the train for the next stop on your tour.
Things to Do Near the Sanford SunRail Station
2 miles from the SunRail station, historic downtown Sanford is packed with trendy breweries and restaurants, boutiques and live entertainment, not to mention the scenic Sanford RiverWalk. Try Tuffy’s Music Box for live music, Theater West End for intimate live theater, or The Ritz Theater, built in 1923, for plays, concerts and events.
Another great day trip option is the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, where you can see over 350 animals and explore 23 acres of native gardens. The Central Florida Zoo is located 4 miles from the station via car.
Discover: Central Florida Zoo
Things to Do Near the DeBary SunRail Station
Located 30 minutes north of downtown Orlando, the DeBary SunRail station is surrounded by beautiful parks and trailheads for a scenic getaway. A trailhead directly across from the station leads to hiking, fishing and swimming at Gemini Springs Park, with two additional trailheads on either side should you choose to explore the general area.
Additional nature escapes include Blue Spring State Park, the Seminole State Forest and the Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park, all located within 10 miles of the station. This section is also notable because the tracks pass over the beautiful St. John’s River. At 310 miles long, it’s the longest river in Florida, starting near the town of Vero Beach and ending near Jacksonville in the Atlantic Ocean.
Things to Do Near the Deland SunRail Station
The northernmost stop on our SunRail tour is the DeLand station, which opened in 2024. Let SunRail take you most of the way, then call a free VoRide (details below) to explore three unique sights within 4 miles of the station.
- Stetson Mansion: Tour the historic Stetson Mansion, a luxe Victorian home built by famed hatmaker and philanthropist John B. Stetson. Check their tour calendar to purchase tickets before you arrive.
- Hontoon Island State Park: Travel by ferry to Hontoon Island State Park, where you can enjoy paddling, fishing, hiking, camping and more along the St. John’s River.
- Downtown Deland: Explore shopping, dining, arts and culture in historic DeLand, one of the first Main Street Districts in Florida. Check out fascinating spots like the DeLand Sculpture Walk, African American Museum of Art and DeLand Naval Air Station Museum, or head to the welcome center to learn more about this day trip-worthy locale.
Southbound SunRail Itinerary
Returning now to our starting point of Church Street Station, here are some of the fun things in store if you journey south, including stops at Orlando Health, Sand Lake Road, Meadow Woods, Tupperware, Kissimmee and Poinciana.
Things to Do Near the Orlando Health SunRail Station
Built in 1926 as part of the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad, the Orlando Health/Amtrak SunRail Station is your gateway to Orlando’s SODO District, a walkable area known for its historic homes, intimate live arts and beautiful lakes. Unwind with craft beer, food trucks and events at À La Cart SODO, dig into seared A5 wagyu at Palm Beach Meats, or savor New American cuisine at Delaney’s Tavern.
Discover: Things to Do in SODO
Want to add a little culture to your trip? Head to Timucua Arts Foundation, an intimate, 100-seat venue that hosts everything from spoken word festivals to concerts, wellness events and original plays. The SODO District is also home to a touching Pulse Memorial Paver Garden. Plans for a permanent Pulse memorial and museum are in the works for the original Pulse nightclub site.
Discover: LGBTQ+ History & Culture
Things to Do Near the Sand Lake Road SunRail Station
Located minutes from Orlando International Airport, the Sand Lake Road SunRail station offers easy access to world-class shopping at The Florida Mall®. Browse over 250 retail, dining and entertainment options just a short drive or bus ride away, including regional exclusives like Crayola Experience, Primark and the American Girl store.
Discover: Things to Do at The Florida Mall
If you prefer a little outdoor action, head to Orlando Watersports Complex for waterskiing, wakeboarding, a 10,000-square-foot aqua park and more. You can also hit the greens at Shingle Creek Golf Club or get your cardio in at Universal Orlando Resort, both a short drive away.
Things to Do Near the Meadow Woods SunRail Station
Located a few miles southwest of Orlando International Airport, this residential commuter station offers an express FastLink bus to the tech-forward Lake Nona neighborhood. Discover vibrant public art, delicious dining options, exhilarating outdoor thrills, world-class sports and more a few miles from the station.
Discover: Things to Do in Lake Nona
Heading in the opposite direction, Discovery Cove®, SeaWorld® Orlando and Aquatica® Orlando are a short drive from Meadow Woods, as are incredible dining, spas and outdoor amenities at sister properties JW Marriott Orlando and The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes.
Things to Do Near the Tupperware SunRail Station
Once part of the Tupperware Brands World Headquarters, this SunRail station is just 2 miles away from one of the oldest and most iconic attractions in Orlando. Nicknamed The Alligator Capital of the World®, Gatorland is home to legendary reptile shows, a free flight aviary, and thousands of alligators and crocodiles. You can even soar over a gator-filled marsh on the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line if you’re feeling bold.
Discover: Things to Do at Gatorland
Things to Do Near the Kissimmee SunRail Station
The downtown Kissimmee SunRail station offers endless day trip possibilities, from urban exploration to outdoor fun on scenic lakes and trails. Start at Kissimmee Lakefront Park for beautiful views over Lake Tohopekaliga (Lake Toho to locals), then check out the Monument of States, a quirky unity landmark made with stone sourced from all 50 states.
Continue on foot or call a complimentary Freebee ride to explore additional points of interest, like the historic Osceola County Courthouse, City Hall, an 18,000-foot antique market, and prohibition-style entertainment at 3 Sisters Speakeasy. Osceola Heritage Park, which hosts events and markets throughout the year, is also a short drive away.
Things to Do Near the Poinciana SunRail Station
The last stop on our SunRail journey, Poinciana is the gateway to dozens of Central Florida attractions and ecotourism adventures, including the Old Town Entertainment District, Fun Spot America — Kissimmee, Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park, Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, and more within 10 miles of the station.
Explore a pioneer village at the Osceola County Welcome Center & History Museum, soar over Central Florida on a Sky Pirates Ballooning ride, or take a lakeside boardwalk stroll at Celebration Town Center. LYNX bus transportation is also available from Poinciana to Walt Disney World® Resort via the Disney Springs® Transfer Center throughout the day.
Free and Low-Cost Transportation From Orlando SunRail Stations
Some SunRail stations are more walkable than others, so before you tap on, here’s a quick peek at some of the free and low-cost transportation options available throughout your journey. Use this handy guide to see what’s possible and explore all that Orlando has to offer during your next visit.
- LYNX Central Station & Church Street Station: Ride DTO offers electric vehicle transportation from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. for just $1 per ride. Select your drop off and pick up points from any location within the designated downtown Orlando zone.
- Sand Lake Road: LYNX bus routes 11, 42 and 311 offer complimentary transportation from Sand Lake station to Orlando International Airport. Just show your valid SunRail ticket to ride for free.
- Sanford: The Sanford Trolley offers complimentary transportation to 10 downtown destinations starting at noon.
- Kissimmee: Freebee Kissimmee offers free electric vehicle transportation from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Sanford, Lake Mary, Longwood & Altamonte Springs: Scout vehicles offer low-cost rideshare services throughout Seminole County. Trips starting or ending at a SunRail station are just $2 per rider.
- DeLand: VoRide offers low-cost ridesharing services within DeLand, Orange City and Deltona, including free rides from the DeLand SunRail station to locations within the DeLand travel zone.
LYNX bus transportation is also available to and from multiple SunRail stations within Orange and Osceola counties. Ready to ride? Let’s go!
Orlando SunRail Day Trip FAQs
When does the SunRail run?
SunRail trains currently operate from Monday to Friday. Trains arrive every 30 minutes during morning and evening peak hours. During off-peak hours, trains operate every 2 – 2-1/2 hours. Detailed timetables can be found on the SunRail website, with service beginning as early as 5:06 a.m. and concluding as late as 11:38 p.m.
SunRail trains do not operate on the following holidays: Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
How much does it cost to ride the SunRail in Orlando?
SunRail travels through four counties, or zones, including Osceola, Orange, Seminole and Volusia Counties. Pricing is zone-dependent, starting at $2 for one-way travel and increasing by $1 for each additional zone included in your route. SunRail pricing ranges from $2 – $5 for a one-way ticket or $3.75 – $9.50 for a roundtrip journey.
Half-priced fares are also available for youth (ages 7 – 18), seniors (ages 65+) and disabled riders. Children under 7 ride free. Frequent SunRail users may also benefit from weekly, monthly or annual SunCard Travel Passes, which include unlimited rides for one low fee.
How do I purchase SunRail tickets?
Each SunRail station has ticket vending machines, making it easy to buy one-way or roundtrip tickets on the fly. If you prefer to plan ahead, the SunRail app also offers online purchasing, timetables, service notifications, train tracking and other helpful travel features.
Do I need to stamp, scan or validate my ticket before boarding?
Paper tickets must be validated before use. There are validating units on each platform. Simply tap your ticket on one of the validating units before boarding and again at your departure station. Keep your round-trip tickets, as you’ll need to repeat this process for the journey back.
For mobile tickets, simply press your screen to open your ticket before boarding. A conductor will come through the cabin after you’ve boarded to scan both mobile and printed tickets.
How long does the SunRail take to reach its destination?
The total one-way travel time between the DeLand and Poinciana SunRail stations is 1 hour and 45 minutes. Stops are located just 3 – 12 minutes apart, so your preferred itinerary could be much shorter.
Can I bring a bike or scooter on the SunRail?
Yes! Bikes, e-bikes and scooters are welcome on board for no additional fee. Bicycle storage is available on the lower level of each train, and secure bicycle parking is also available at each station if you prefer to leave your bike at the platform.
Are there restrooms on the SunRail?
Yes, all SunRail trains have ADA-accessible restrooms on the lower level. There are no restrooms at the train station, so please plan accordingly.
Map of Orlando SunRail Stations
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