Sanford Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Located in the heart of the beautiful Sunshine State, Sanford is a charming city in the Florida region that offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as the "Historic Waterfront Gateway City," Sanford boasts a rich heritage that dates back to the 19th century, making it a perfect destination for history buffs and those seeking a laid-back yet captivating vacation experience.

One of the highlights of Sanford is its picturesque waterfront area along Lake Monroe, where visitors can enjoy scenic strolls, picnics, and even take a romantic boat ride. The marina is a hub of activity, with boating enthusiasts docking their vessels and visitors enjoying the bustling atmosphere. Those looking for a unique experience can also hop on one of the popular riverboat cruises that offer stunning views of the lake and its surrounding natural beauty.

For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Sanford Historic District is a must. This charming area is home to a collection of beautifully preserved buildings that showcase the city's rich past. From Victorian-era homes to historic churches and museums, the district offers a fascinating glimpse into Sanford's heritage. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the streets, admiring the architectural beauty and immersing themselves in the city's history.

Art lovers will also find plenty to admire in Sanford. The city is home to several galleries and art spaces that showcase the works of local and regional artists. Whether you're into traditional paintings, contemporary sculptures, or experimental installations, there's something for everyone. The vibrant art scene also spills out into the streets, with colorful murals adorning the walls of buildings, adding an extra touch of creativity to the city's ambiance.

When it comes to dining, Sanford offers a diverse culinary scene that caters to all tastes. From cozy cafes serving up delicious brunches to upscale restaurants offering fine dining experiences, foodies will find themselves spoiled for choice. The city's proximity to fresh seafood sources also means that seafood lovers will be in for a treat, with mouthwatering dishes featuring the catch of the day.

Alternative names: Population: 58.1 thous.Area: 26.59 mi²Elevation: 16 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 28°48'26"N, 81°17'10"W

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FloridaUnited States

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Sanford Top Attractions

Sanford Attractions - What to See and Explore

Sanford offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, Seminole State College, Museum of Seminole County History, St. Johns River Veterans Memorial Bridge. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Concerts and shows • Theater • Vernacular architecture
Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center
The Ritz Theater is a historic theatre in Sanford, Florida, United States. It is located at 201 South Magnolia Avenue. On January 29, 2001, it was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. After getting donations from Wayne Densch it has now been named the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center.
Universities and schools
Seminole State College
Seminole State College of Florida is a public college with four campuses in Central Florida. It is part of the Florida College System. Founded in 1965, the Florida State Legislature signed a charter creating "Seminole Junior College." The college opened in August 1966 with 700...
Museum • History museum
Museum of Seminole County History
The Seminole County Home is a historic site located at 300 Bush Boulevard in Sanford, Florida, United States, North America.

Bridge
St. Johns River Veterans Memorial Bridge
The original St. Johns River Bridge was a four-lane concrete-and-steel causeway bridge constructed over the St. Johns River at the west outlet of Lake Monroe.
Zoo • Saint Josephs
Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens
The Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a 116-acre zoo and botanical garden located north of Orlando, Florida in Sanford.
Museum • History museum
Sanford Grammar School
The Sanford Grammar School, also known as the Sanford High School and as the Margaret K. Reynolds Building, is a historic school building located at 301 West 7th Street in Sanford, Florida Built in 1902, it was designed by Wilbur B. Talley in the Romanesque Revival style of architecture.
28°48'42"N • 81°15'59"W
Gallery on First
Museum • Art gallery • Shopping
Church
St. James A. M. E. Church
St. James A. M. E. Church is a congregation of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in Sanford, Florida, United States. The oldest church in Sanford founded by African Americans, it was established in 1867, when the church purchased land on the corner of East Ninth Street and South Cypress Avenue.
Romanesque architecture
PICO Building
The PICO Building, also known as the PICO Hotel, is an historic 2-story redbrick building located at 209 North Oak Avenue, corner of West Commercial Street, in Sanford, Florida. Built during 1886-1887 for Henry B.
Neighbourhood
Sanford Residential Historic District
The Sanford Residential Historic District is a U.S. Historic District located in Sanford, Florida. The district is bounded by Sanford Avenue, 14th Street, Elm Avenue, and 3rd Street.
Neighbourhood
Sanford Commercial District
The Sanford Commercial District is a U.S. Historic District located in Sanford, Florida. The district includes parts of 1st, 2nd, and Commercial Streets, between Palmetto and Oak Streets.
28°48'9"N • 81°15'45"W
Hopper Academy
Hopper Academy is a former school for African Americans in Sanford, Florida. It closed in the early 1960s, was used by the school district, and was then abandoned and fell into disrepair. It has been restored and is now a community center. It is on the Florida Black Heritage Trail and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Neighbourhood
Beck Hammock
Beck Hammock is a neighborhood in Sanford, Florida. It was named "Beck Hammock" after the Beck family that settled in this area. In an obituary in the Sanford Herald, the earliest mention of the family was Mrs. Jay Beck and it states she moved here from South Carolina in the late 19th century.

Day trips

Sanford – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Sanford, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Space Mountain (Walt Disney World), Cinderella Castle (Lake Buena Vista), Old Town (Kissimmee).

32 milesSW
Disney rocket ride with galactic effects
Space Mountain, Walt Disney World
Space Mountain at Walt Disney World in the United States is an iconic indoor roller coaster that has captivated the imaginations of thrill-seekers since its inception. Located in the Magic Kingdom's Tomorrowland, Space Mountain invites guests to embark on an...
32 milesSW
Amusement, Amusement park, Amusement ride
Cinderella Castle, Lake Buena Vista
Cinderella Castle stands as the iconic centerpiece of Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom in Lake Buena Vista, United States. This fairy-tale fortress is not only a symbol of the theme park but has also become an emblem of the Disney brand worldwide.
36 milesS
Amusement, Neighbourhood, Amusement park
Old Town, Kissimmee
Nestled in the heart of Osceola County, Florida, Old Town stands as a charming and vibrant shopping mall that offers a nostalgic twist on the traditional retail experience. This unique attraction, located in the city of Kissimmee, is a delightful blend of shopping...
36 milesSW
Indoor ride with animatronic dinosaurs
Dinosaur, Walt Disney World
Embark on a prehistoric adventure at "Dinosaur," a thrilling ride located in the heart of Disney's Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort, United States. This heart-pounding attraction takes guests back in time to the late Cretaceous Period, offering a chance...
32 milesSW
Amusement, Amusement ride, Amusement park
Stitch's Great Escape!, Walt Disney World
Stitch's Great Escape! was an attraction located in the heart of Tomorrowland at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom in Bay Lake, Florida. Inspired by Disney's animated film "Lilo & Stitch," this attraction invited guests to a galactic prison transfer center where the...

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Best Time To Visit Sanford

Learn when is the best time to travel to Sanford weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

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March and July are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in February, April and June.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in May, June, July, August and September. While the coldest is in January, February and December.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in December. Most of it rains in July, August and September.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Sanford?

The top attractions to visit in Sanford are:

What is the best time to visit Sanford?

March and July are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in February, April and June. The highest air temperature is in May, June, July, August and September. While the coldest is in January, February and December.