Looking for historic downtowns and old-fashioned main streets? How about the hustle and bustle of big cities with dynamic downtowns? Then we've got you covered! One of the great things about Exploria Resorts vacations is that you're never limited to just one experience. Your resort stay can serve as a jumping-off point for many new and exciting adventures. From quaint towns to happening cities, it's all within reach - so get ready to do some exploring while on your Exploria Resorts vacation! Central Florida - Coast-to-Coast Charm and Big City Action Many of Central Florida's favorite small towns are an easy drive from our Orlando, Daytona Beach, and New Smyrna Beach resorts (45 min. - 1 hr. 15 min.). The vibrant town of DeLand, nicknamed “The Athens of Florida,” was founded in 1876. Home to Stetson University, Florida's oldest college, DeLand projects the aura of a quaint New England college town. It's been called “a perfect slice of pure Florida, and a wonderful place to spend an afternoon” for good reason. Surrounded by nearly 1,400 small lakes, historic Mount Dora retains the authentic flavor of Old Florida. The town's name dates back to 1883 when visiting surveyors named it after an early settler. Today, Mount Dora boasts a year-round schedule of festivals. It's also recognized as one of the top 15 most charming small towns in Florida, and “Travel + Leisure” calls it one of the “10 Most Charming to Visit” among American Small Towns. If you're looking for some action, Downtown Orlando is central to all our Florida resorts (30 min. - 1 hr. 15 min.) and a destination in its own right. There's lots of grown-up fun in the heart of the city, from sports to theater to a lively foodie and club scene, plus green spaces like beautiful Lake Eola Park. Don't miss exploring a few of its neighborhoods like the trendy Thornton Park district, where you can stroll cobblestone streets and absorb the Bohemian artistic atmosphere. The Tampa/St. Petersburg area is an easy drive from Summer Bay Orlando Resort (1 hr. 30 min.) and so worth the trip. Tampa Bay's neighborhoods offer both big-city excitement and small-town charm. Between downtown Tampa's Riverwalk, SoHo cafés and restaurants, historic Ybor City, and tranquil Hyde Park Village, you can easily spend a full day there. In Downtown St. Pete, you can enjoy beautiful waterfront parks, dine at delicious restaurants and sidewalk cafés, shop at eclectic stores and boutiques, and explore world-class museums, galleries, and attractions.Gatlinburg - Two Sides of the Smokies There are so many amazing day trips that begin from your home base at Gatlinburg Town Square by Exploria Resorts. The big question is, which side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to start with? On the north side of the Smokies, historic downtown Sevierville (25 min.) is closest. The iconic standout of the town's skyline is Sevier County Courthouse, built in 1896 - the same year Tennessee celebrated its centennial and a century after Sevierville was named the county seat. Delve into local history on a self-guided tour with 40 points of interest. Along the way you may notice a number of recent renovations that have restored the town's original charm while adding modern amenities, stores and restaurants. Further west on the “peaceful side” of the Smokies, Townsend (30 min.) is known as the “Gateway to Cades Cove.” This town offers visitors a plethora of family-fun excursions and activities, both indoors and out. If you're interested in southeastern heritage, explore various community-driven art galleries, workshops, and museums along the Lamar Alexander Parkway. Don't miss a chance to explore the city of Knoxville (1 hr.) northwest of Gatlinburg. You may be pleasantly surprised at this self-described “nature-loving, adventure-seeking, artsy kind of town.” The walkable downtown allows you to discover vibrant murals, local music, historic sites, art museums, parks, greenways, and more. Its reputation as a food city is growing, and the city is building a name for itself as one of the best craft beer towns in the Southeast. South of the Smoky Mountains, check out two charming North Carolina towns well worth a visit. The town of Sylva (1 hr.), incorporated in 1889, features a downtown area lined with a collection of eclectic restaurants and coffee shops, several downtown bookstores, shops, and four microbreweries on the Jackson County Ale Trail. Perched majestically above it all is the most photographed courthouse in the state. Standing on the steps of the Jackson County Courthouse and Library, you can enjoy amazing views of the downtown area and surrounding mountain backdrop. Waynesville (1 hr.) is the largest town in Western North Carolina and a short drive from Asheville. Two of the town's most visited areas are Main Street and around Frog Level (a holdover from when Richland Creek used to flood and this part of town spent time under water). Boutique shops and some of the area's best restaurants line both Main Street and Wall Street, and you'll discover local artists, antiques, a coffeehouse, and a brewing company on Frog Level. If you're a fan of Mast General Stores, you're in luck! (You'll find it on Main Street.) If any Southeast destination deserves the prize for best “happening” city, it's Asheville (1 hr. 45 min.). This prolific city has it all, and they do it with panache - from food, music, cultural arts, and craft beer to outdoor adventure. Of course, a trip to Asheville isn't complete without a tour of Biltmore Estate, George Biltmore's 250-room castle and “America's Largest Home.” And don't miss the Frederick Law Olmsted-designed gardens or the Biltmore Winery at Antler Hill Village. The Poconos - From Cozy Towns to City Lights Your stay at Pocono Mountain Villas by Exploria Resorts won't be complete without a visit to these quaint Pennsylvania towns. Experience the epitome of country charm with scenic drives to the four counties of the Poconos. Closest to home is nearby Stroudsburg (20 min.), where old Americana flair mixes with a young college town vibe, modern shops sit side-by-side with historic buildings, and winery hopping is a favorite pastime. Then head north to charming downtown Milford (30 min.). Don't be surprised to find unexpected boutiques juxtaposed with looming Victorian mansions turned bed and breakfasts, all set along the wild Delaware River. Further on, the town of Honesdale (1 hr.) is known for being the “Birthplace of the American Railroad.” The first steam locomotive on U.S. commercial tracks came here in 1829, and you can ride these iconic rails for beautiful vistas of the countryside. Drive south from your resort to Jim Thorpe (1 hr.) for a very special treat. Known as “The Switzerland of America,” this historic Victorian town is popular with outdoor enthusiasts and home to the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. Tour the opulent rooms in the Asa Packer Mansion, a historic house museum built in 1861. Or visit the Country Junction - World's Largest General Store (for real). Further south, beyond the mountains, you'll find towns like New Hope (1 hr. 30 min.) and Yardley (1hr. 45 min.). New Hope is home to the Bucks County Playhouse, historic mansions, vintage trains, and eclectic restaurants overlooking the Delaware River. Yardley is known for its historic town center filled with boutiques, taverns, and historic buildings. It's also where George Washington crossed the Delaware on Christmas night in 1776. If you need a big-city fix, New York City (1 hr. 45 min.) is the place for you! It's worth the drive just to soak in this legendary city's vibes. The hardest part will be deciding where to start. Maybe a harbor tour to see the Statue of Liberty, or One World Trade Center. How about Times Square, Broadway, Top of the Rock Observation Deck, the Empire State Building, Central Park, or a stop along Museum Mile? Perhaps a pilgrimage to the new Harry Potter flagship store? Choosing is half the fun. For a deep dive into American's history, head to Philadelphia (2 hr.) - one of only three U.S. destinations to make the “Condé Nast Traveler” shortlist of must-visit places in 2021. You'll have your pick of things to do there. Snap a photo in front of the Liberty Bell and tour Independence Hall. Enjoy an authentic Philly cheesesteak. Visit the awesome museums on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Or explore Philly's hip waterfront. The list is endless. Book Your Exploria Resorts Stay Today No matter what kind of vacation experience your family is looking for, Exploria Resorts offers the perfect setting for creating unforgettable memories! Where will you go? Start planning your vacation today! Click here to explore our vacation packages, then book the best resort location to fit your vacation style.
