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DeLand is the county seat of Volusia County in Central Florida, a small city of around 40,000 people about 20 miles west of Daytona Beach and an hour north of Orlando. It was founded in 1876 by Henry DeLand, a baking soda manufacturer from New York, and grew up around oak-shaded streets and citrus groves.
The heart of town is its walkable historic downtown along Woodland Boulevard, with brick storefronts, murals, cafes, the restored 1920s Athens Theatre and the domed historic Volusia County Courthouse. Stetson University, founded in 1883 and named for hat maker John B. Stetson, gives DeLand a college-town feel and adds museums, concerts and a handsome historic campus.
DeLand is also a gateway to the St. Johns River and some of Florida's best springs. De Leon Springs, Blue Spring and Hontoon Island state parks are all a short drive away, offering swimming, paddling and winter manatee viewing, while the airport is famous worldwide as a skydiving center.
DeLand's historic downtown along Woodland Boulevard is lined with brick storefronts, independent boutiques, restaurants, coffee shops and colorful murals. It hosts street festivals and a monthly art stroll. Park once and explore on foot, then come back in the evening when the restaurants fill up.
A restored 1922 Italian Renaissance style theater in the heart of downtown DeLand. Today it hosts community theater productions, concerts, film screenings and special events in its ornate auditorium. Check the schedule before your visit and arrive early to grab dinner on Woodland Boulevard first.
Florida's oldest private university, founded in 1883, has a leafy campus of historic brick buildings including DeLand Hall, one of the oldest buildings in the state used continuously for higher education. Stroll the grounds, see the Elizabeth Hall chapel tower and check for public concerts and lectures.
The Neoclassical Volusia County Courthouse, completed in 1929, anchors downtown DeLand with its columns and copper dome. It is one of the most photographed buildings in town and sits next to the courthouse square and city hall. Admire the facade from Indiana Avenue and pair it with a downtown walk.
A small but active art museum with rotating exhibitions of Florida artists, historical works and contemporary pieces, plus a downtown gallery space on Woodland Boulevard. It offers talks, classes and family programs. Check which location has current shows, and allow about an hour for a visit.
A community museum in DeLand dedicated to the art and culture of Africa and the African diaspora, with a collection of African masks and sculptures, works by African American and Caribbean artists, and changing exhibitions. It is small, friendly and usually free, with donations welcome.
A mineral museum on the Stetson University campus with thousands of rocks, minerals, gems and fossils, including a glowing fluorescent mineral room and displays on Florida geology. It is a favorite with families and school groups. Admission is usually free or by donation; check hours during university breaks.
A historic 1886 home near Stetson University, now a house museum run by the West Volusia Historical Society. Period rooms and exhibits tell the story of the city's founder, early settlers and Stetson University. The gardens next door are pleasant for a short stroll. Check opening days before you go.
A state park just north of DeLand built around a large natural spring that stays near 72 degrees all year. Swim in the spring, rent a kayak to paddle into the wildlife refuge, and cook your own pancakes at the table griddles of the Old Spanish Sugar Mill restaurant. Arrive early on summer weekends.
A state park a short drive south of DeLand where hundreds of West Indian manatees gather in the warm spring run from roughly November to March. Boardwalks give close views of the animals, and the historic Thursby House sits on the grounds. In winter arrive at opening, as the park often fills by mid-morning.
An island park on the St. Johns River west of DeLand reached only by a free passenger ferry or private boat. Hike shaded trails to an ancient shell mound, picnic by the river, fish, or rent a cabin for the night. Bring bug spray, water and snacks, as services on the island are limited.
One of the world's best known skydiving centers, based at DeLand Municipal Airport. First timers can book a tandem jump with an instructor, and spectators can watch canopies land from the viewing area and café. Book ahead, expect weather delays, and plan for the whole morning or afternoon.
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