Last Updated on November 29, 2023
Are you looking for fun things to do in Sanford, FL? We have just what you’re looking for!
Located in the North Central Florida area (Seminole County), Sanford is known as the “Historic Waterfront Gateway City.”
This is due to being on the southern shore of Lake Monroe and at the head of the St. Johns River.
Sanford was once one of the largest vegetable shipping centers in the United States.
It received the nickname “Celery City” because of the large amount of celery farming in town.
From its downtown area, with numerous shops, galleries, theaters, and restaurants, to an abundance of nature and wildlife, including a great zoo, you will always find memorable things to do in Sanford.
Gallery on First
The Gallery on First in Sanford, Florida, is a great place to visit for those looking for art that is unique and different.
Located in historic downtown Sanford, the Gallery on First offers a wide selection of art, ranging from paintings to sculptures and everything in between.
The art gallery also features events such as painting classes, themed parties, and community outreach programs.
Visiting the Gallery on First is a great way to experience Sanford’s culture and contribute to its artistic heritage.
The Gallery is open Tuesday – Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm and Sunday from 12 pm to 5 pm. They are also available on Mondays by appointment.
Every third Saturday of the month, from 6 pm -9 pm, they hold an Open Studio at Gallery on First.
Gallery on First Address: 211 East First Street, Sanford, FL 32771
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
The Sanford Zoo began in 1923 when a traveling circus gave the local Elks Club a rhesus monkey.
Shortly after, more animals were added to the collection and housed at the Sanford Fire Department. These animals included a bulldog, skunk, opossum, raccoon, and squirrel.
In the 1940s, the zoo relocated to downtown, with spider monkeys on Monkey Island being a popular draw.
The Sanford City Hall is the site where the zoo used to be.
The zoo eventually outgrew its space downtown, and some devoted citizens, along with Seminole County’s donation of 106 acres of land.
It moved to the area you can still find it today — just 3.6 miles down the street on Lake Monroe.
Jack Hanna
On July 4, 1975, the Central Florida Zoological Park officially opened with Jack Hanna as its Director.
Jack Hanna and his wife Suzi moved the family to Florida while Jack worked at the Central Florida Zoo from 1973 to 1975.
In 1975, Jack had to take a break from the animal world because of an illness in the family.
NOTE: Unfortunately, Jack Hanna has Alzheimer’s disease. His family opened up about their experience to help others learn how to communicate with a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia. A great resource is the Alzheimer’s Association.
The Animals
Today, the zoo has grown to house over 350 animals (100 different species), including PJ the Rhino, giraffes, monkeys, zebras, alligators, Florida black bears, and much more.
Little Florida Coast Line Train
In addition to seeing the animals, visitors can ride a quarter-scale G-16 miniature train built in 1951 modeled after the Florida East Coast “Champion” streamliner.
Other Zoo Activities
There’s also a beautiful botanical garden, an aerial zip-line adventure course, a splash zone, and a Children’s Zoo.
They also house the Southeast’s largest collection of venomous snakes and non-venomous reptiles.
Keep your eyes open for a few Mold-A-Ramas, those nostalgic vending machines that make injection molded plastic figurines. (They’ve come a long way since the 1960s).
They also hold special events throughout the year, such as the Asian Lantern Festival.
Check the events page on their website for what’s happening at the Zoo.
The Central Florida Zoo is open daily from 9 am to 4 pm. It’s closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens Address: 3755 W Seminole Blvd, Sanford, FL 32771
St. Johns Rivership Company
For a relaxing day or night on the water away from the hustle and bustle of it all, look no further than the St. Johns Rivership Company.
Family-owned and operated, this company offers a different way to experience Florida wildlife and the beauty of the Central Florida area.
The Rivership Barbara-Lee is the only authentic sternwheeler sailing the St. Johns River. Measuring 105 feet from stem to stern, the ship was built in 1986.
It was extensively refurbished before its inaugural St. Johns cruise in 2012.
The cruises depart almost daily from Historic Downtown Sanford on Lake Monroe.
If you want to go out on a night like the Fourth of July, make your reservations early.
As if a stunning river cruise isn’t enough, all the cruises also include your choice of a delicious chef-prepared meal, live entertainment, a stocked bar, and more.
St. Johns Rivership Offer Six Different Cruises
- River Visit Luncheon Cruise – Wednesdays from 11 am – 2 pm, $70.84 per person
- River Escape Luncheon Cruise – Thursdays from 11 am – 3 pm, $82.18 per person
- Rockin’ on the River Cruise (must be 21) – 1st Friday of every month from 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm, $25 per person
- Saturday Luncheon Cruise – Saturdays from 11 am – 2 pm, $70.84 per person
- Dinner Dance Cruise – Saturdays from 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm, $84.81 per person
- Sunday Luncheon Cruise – Sundays from 12 pm – 3 pm, $70.84 per person
Be sure to arrive a half hour before the departure time. A reservation is required and can be made by calling: 321.441.3030.
NOTE: You can also book the cruise ship for private events.
St. Johns Rivership Address: 433 N Palmetto Ave, Sanford, FL 32771
Sanford Museum
The Sanford Museum first opened to the public in 1957. Initially, it was The Henry Shelton Sanford Memorial Library and Museum.
Due to its popularity, the building expanded once in 1974 and again in 1993.
This museum is dedicated to preserving and connecting people to the rich history of Sanford.
One collection at the museum is the Sanford Family Connection, which includes the library and papers of Henry S. Sanford, the city’s founder.
Henry S. Sanford established Sanford as a Transportation hub in 1870. He is considered a founder of the Florida Citrus Industry.
You can also view European and American paintings, furniture, personal objects, and books from 1820 – 1890.
The Chase Gallery is another large gallery at the museum. This exhibit focuses on the local history of Sanford.
This includes city plans, railroads, riverboats, agriculture, education, local celebrities, the Naval Air Station, and more.
Some of the local celebrities include sportscaster Red Barber, Baseball stars Tim Raines and David Eckstein, professional footballers Jeff Blake, Reggie Branch, UCF/NFL star Gabe Davis, and Drew “Bundini” Brown, Muhammed Ali’s cornerman.
The Sanford Museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm.
Learn more on the Sanford Museum website.
Sanford Museum Address: 520 E 1st St, Sanford, FL 32771
Hollerbach’s Willow Tree Tavern
An incredibly popular restaurant in downtown Sanford is Hollerbach’s Willow Tree Tavern. It’s known for its authentic German food and music.
Locally owned and operated by the Hollerbach family, this restaurant has been serving and entertaining the patrons of Sanford and their loyal fans from afar since 2001.
When they opened, there were only seven employees. They have expanded throughout the years to the delight of all by adding a German deli, market, and a costume/clothing/accessory shop.
The family believes that the most critical thing is Gemütlichkeit, which means creating a unique and memorable experience for the guests.
The family has helped make Sanford a dining and entertainment destination that stands out in the Central Florida area. That’s quite an accomplishment.
Restaurant hours are Sunday through Thursday from 11 am to 9 pm; Friday and Saturday from 11 am to 10 pm.
We highly recommend going when live entertainment is happening. They typically have shows every Friday from 7 pm – 10 pm, Saturday from 1 pm – 4 pm and 7 pm – 10 pm, and Sunday from 6 pm – 9 pm.
They also host Meat Bingo every Tuesday night. Proceeds go to a different local charity each week.
To learn more, visit Hollerbach’s website.
Hollerbach’s Willow Tree Cafe Address: 201-205 E 1st St, Sanford, FL 32771
Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park
If you want to spend time outdoors and experience natural Florida, check out the Lower Wekiva River State Park.
The area was first inhabited by Native Americans thousands of years ago. They appreciated the wildlife in the area, such as river otters, black bears, alligators, wood storks, and sandhill cranes.
Even today, you may see the same wildlife roaming around and native Florida plants.
These are other activities available at the park:
- Bicycling
- Fishing
- Paddling
- Birding
- Geo-Seeking
- Walking and Running
- Camping
- Equestrian
- Hiking
- Wildlife Viewing
There is a $3 fee per vehicle. Pets are allowed but must be on a leash.
Lower Wekiva River State Preserve Park is open from 8 am to sunset, 365 days a year.
Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park Address: 262 Wekiva Park Drive, Sanford, FL 32771
Red Hill Groves
Since 1962, the original family-owned grove has been historically significant for being the first grove for many of Florida’s citrus pioneers.
While the grove eventually moved from Conway to Sanford, you can still purchase various produce, including citrus, fresh vegetables, U-Pick strawberries, blueberries, and fresh herbs.
Stop by their farm store for a delicious meal. Several Authentic Florida readers have recommended the Baby Back Ribs, Orange Ice Cream, and Fresh-Squeezed Orange Juice … we agree.
A full menu from Red Hill Groves is available on their website.
If you’re not in the Sanford area, don’t worry. You may purchase fresh produce on Red Hill Groves website.
The Farm Store & BBQ Restaurant is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 am to 5:30 pm and Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm. It’s closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Red Hill Groves Address: 218 Ronald Reagan Blvd. Sanford, FL 32773
Attend a Festival or Event
Throughout the year, Sanford hosts a slew of great events such as:
- Love Your Shorts Film Festival
- Mardi Gras Street Party
- Sanford Porchfest
- Pints n’ Paws Craft Beer Festival
- Hollerbach’s Springfest
- Brews Around the Zoo
- St. Johns River Festival of the Arts
- Star Spangled Sanford
To stay updated on events in Sanford, FL, visit the Historic Downtown Sanford website.
Downtown Sanford Marina
The 310-mile St. Johns River is the longest in Florida and one of the safest. It’s also one of the most accessible gateways from the Atlantic Ocean.
The stretch from Sanford to Mayport is delightful. If you own a boat, the Downtown Sanford Marina offers wet slips, dry storage, security gates, wifi, ethanol-free gas, and more.
To learn more, visit the Downtown Sanford Marina website.
Famous Tiny Houseboat Rental
The Famous Tiny Houseboat in Sanford, Florida, known as ‘Downtown Dharma’, is located at the Monroe Harbour Marina in Historic Downtown Sanford.
This unique Airbnb accommodation became famous after being featured on HGTV’s “Tiny House Hunters” TV show. It was featured on its 4th season (Episode 12).
The 500+ square feet houseboat’s presence in the marina adds a unique touch to the local landscape, blending the traditional charm of Sanford with modern, innovative living spaces
Click here to book the Famous Tiny Houseboat.
Sanford Riverwalk
The Sanford Riverwalk is a 4.5-mile multi-use trail with scenic water views along Lake Monroe. It’s a great place to walk, run or bike.
They have benches and covered swings if you prefer to take it easy and look at the boats or read a book. There’s also a nice playground for the kids and a picnic area.
Great news. There are plenty of free, long-term parking options throughout Historic Downtown Sanford.
Henry’s Depot Food Hall & Bar
Henry’s Depot is the historical site of Florida’s first railroad system by Henry B. Plant. The depot has become an open-air marketplace with food vendors and shops.
It’s anchored by an old Florida-themed bar called The Basin. They have lots of live entertainment and family-friendly events throughout the year.
See the hours for each vendor on the official Henry’s Depot website.
Henry’s Depot Address: 212 W 1st St, Sanford, FL
The Ritz Theater at Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center
In July 1923, the Milane Theater in Sanford opened. They showed a mixture of plays and movies that were well-attended.
In 1933, Frank and Stella Evans purchased the property and renamed it The Ritz Theater in 1936. Despite struggling to attract people, the family held on to it and eventually closed in 1978.
It reopened in May 2000 as the Helen Stairs Theater since Ms. Stairs spearheaded the restoration efforts.
Then in 2008, it became the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center since they funded additional renovations and upgrades.
Beginning in 2015, after adding a Ritz sign to the front of the building and many other renovations, it was rebranded as the Ritz Theater at Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center.
Ever since, it has become a premiere destination for performances of all sorts (ballet, Illusionists and magicians, special events, and classic movies).
Check out the events on their website calendar.
Ritz Theater at Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center Address: 201 Magnolia Ave, Sanford, FL 32771
Celery City Craft Brewery
Celery City Craft Brewery celebrates the roots of Sanford. They feature unique craft beers, wines, and cocktails.
They recently revamped their outdoor area, so now is a great time to check it out for the first time or visit again.
Sushi & Seoul at Celery City Craft has been an excellent addition to Historic Downtown Sanford, Florida. They offer a colorful selection of quality sushi dishes and inspired street food items.
Celery City Craft Brewery is open Monday to Wednesday from 11 am to 12 am, Thursdady through Saturday from 11 am to 2 am.
Celery City Craft Brewery Address: 114 S Palmetto Ave, Sanford, FL 32771
Historic Downtown Sanford Tours & Experiences
Sanford Tours & Experiences is the best source for unique and curated experiences in and around Historic Downtown Sanford, Florida.
These tours include:
- Sanford History & Movie Tours
- Craft Beer & History Tour
- Sanford Ghost Tours
- Golf Cart Rentals
- Bike Rentals
- Bike Ride & Bike Toura
- Seminole Aerial Adventures
- Sanford Events & Getaway Package
- Florida’s Emancipation Day Celebration
Visit the official Historic Downtown Sanford website to book a tour online.
Free Trolly Service from SunRail and Amtrak
The City of Sanford’s Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) provides a free downtown trolley service.
The Sanford trolley also provides transportation between the Sanford SunRail station (weekdays), Amtrak Auto Train (Monday through Saturday), and downtown Sanford.
Download the Sanford Trolley app for more information.
Meriwether Farms & Citrus Fruit
Meriwether Farms & Citrus Grove, located in Sanford, Florida, is a family-owned and operated farm and citrus grove established around 1915.
This farm is renowned for its roadside stand where it sells a variety of fresh-picked citrus fruits. It is NOT a u-pick farm.
The farm operates seasonally, typically from November-December to April-May each year.
It is located at 3471 Celery Ave, Sanford, FL 32771.
Lommerse Honey and Plants
Lommerse Honey and Plants represents a multifaceted agricultural business in Sanford by the same family from Meriweather Farms & Citrus Grove.
The family owned business provides both high-quality honey products and a range of plants, including edible fruit crops.
Farmer Rob has been noted to educate visitors about the production of edible fruit crops like peaches and avocados. He also shares insights on propagation strategies commonly used in fruit growing.
Lommerce Honey and Plants is located at 535 Upsala Rd, Sanford, FL 32771.
Are you looking for other fun things to do in this general area? Check out:
- 18 Best Things to Do in Sanford, FL
- Green Springs Park + Nearby Places to Eat, Stay, & Shop
- 11 Best Things to Do in Altamonte Springs
- Plan a Weekend Retreat North of Orlando in Seminole County
- Blue Spring State Park + Nearby Places to Eat, Stay, & Shop
- 15 Best Things to Do in DeLand
- Our 19+ Favorite Freshwater Florida Springs