Hotels in Sanford

Sanford: Where Lakeside Serenity Meets Riverfront Adventure

Sanford, Florida, is a hidden gem brimming with charm and adventure. Nestled along the scenic shores of Lake Monroe and the St. Johns River, this vibrant city boasts a lively downtown filled with unique boutiques, art galleries, and delectable dining options. Stroll through the historic streets, visit the Sanford Museum to uncover local history, or catch a thrilling game at the Sanford Memorial Stadium. With its picturesque waterfront, inviting parks, and welcoming atmosphere, Sanford is the perfect destination for those seeking a blend of culture, nature, and relaxation. Discover the magic of this off-the-beaten-path paradise! For the best hotel rates in Sanford, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Sanford

Some of the best places to stay in Sanford are Downtown Orlando, Lake Nona and Doctor Phillips. Sanford, Florida, offers easy access to vibrant areas like Downtown Orlando, Lake Nona, and Doctor Phillips. Downtown Orlando is perfect for first-time visitors, bustling with dining, shopping, and entertainment. Lake Nona features modern amenities and parks, ideal for families. Doctor Phillips is known for its culinary scene and proximity to theme parks. Hotel accommodations vary from budget-friendly options to upscale suites, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler exploring these exciting locales. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Sanford:

1. Downtown OrlandoOpens in a new window: Downtown Orlando is a vibrant area perfect for families and entertainment seekers. It boasts proximity to top attractions like Universal Studios Florida and Walt Disney World® Resort. This bustling district features various amenities and activities, making it a great base for exploring the region. For accommodation, consider DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Orlando DowntownOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel catering to business and family travelers, offering child-friendly services and conference facilities. Another option is Grand Bohemian Orlando, Autograph CollectionOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel that welcomes pets and provides extensive business amenities. Finally, The Alfond InnOpens in a new window, also a 4.0-star hotel, features unique decor and additional services for pets, making it ideal for boutique hotel lovers.
2. Lake NonaOpens in a new window: Lake Nona is a family-friendly destination known for its modern facilities and recreational options. It's conveniently located near major theme parks, including Universal Orlando Resort and Walt Disney World® Resort. Lake Nona Wave HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel, offers a romantic atmosphere with spa services and pet-friendly policies. Alternatively, Hyatt Regency Orlando International AirportOpens in a new window, another 4.0-star property, is well-suited for families with childcare amenities and business facilities. For adventure enthusiasts, Marriott Orlando Airport LakesideOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel, provides options for outdoor activities and is family-oriented, making it a fantastic choice for active vacations.
3. Doctor PhillipsOpens in a new window: Doctor Phillips is an excellent destination for families, featuring easy access to major attractions like Walt Disney World® Resort and Universal Studios Florida. The area is known for its upscale dining and recreational opportunities. Consider Conrad OrlandoOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hotel ideal for business and adventure seekers, offering direct beach access and numerous amenities. Four Seasons Resort Orlando at WALT DISNEY WORLD® ResortOpens in a new window, also a 5.0-star hotel, is perfect for families with its golf facilities and water park. Lastly, Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGateOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel, combines business services with family-friendly amenities, ensuring a well-rounded experience for all types of travelers.

Things to do in Sanford for first time

Sanford is a charming destination perfect for a three-day getaway, featuring scenic rivers and tranquil lakes. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from boating and hiking to live music and shopping, all set against a backdrop of lush parks and inviting natural beauty. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Sanford:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Universal Studios Florida, where thrilling rides and immersive attractions await. Dive into the worlds of your favorite movies and enjoy the excitement of this renowned theme park. After a day of adrenaline, head to Harry P. Leu Gardens, a serene oasis filled with beautiful blooms and lush landscapes—perfect for a leisurely stroll. Conclude your day at Mead Garden, where the peaceful trails and picturesque scenery offer a tranquil end to your busy day.
• Day 2: Start your morning with a visit to Lake Monroe, where you can enjoy scenic views and perhaps catch a glimpse of local wildlife. Afterward, venture to the Black Bear Wilderness Area for a hike through stunning natural landscapes, where you can experience Florida's diverse ecosystems. Wrap up your day at DeBary Hall Historic Site, a charming historical landmark that showcases the area's rich heritage and offers guided tours to learn about its fascinating past.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Blue Spring State Park, where you can admire the crystal-clear springs and watch manatees during the winter months. Next, explore the Wekiva River, ideal for kayaking and enjoying the beauty of Florida's waterways. End your day at Lake Jesup, a picturesque location that offers opportunities for bird watching and enjoying the serene environment, providing a perfect conclusion to your Sanford experience.

5 tips to find a great Sanford hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The best time to visit Sanford for budget-conscious travelers is in January, September, and October, as hotel prices are more affordable during these months. International visitors should aim to book their flights at least 3 months in advance for great value, while domestic travelers should plan to book at least 8 months ahead for the best deals. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully appreciate the area's main attractions, including its beautiful lake and river. This makes Sanford an ideal destination for those looking for a budget-friendly getaway.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Discovering last-minute deals to Sanford can be a great way to save on your travel expenses. To find offers on Hotels.com, head over to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find competitive rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Be sure to enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, enhancing your chances of snagging a great deal while enjoying good availability.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel costs in Sanford.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and local attractions in Sanford usually tends to be more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further away from the city center, you can use transportation options like a car, bus, or taxi to explore the area, which may help you save on expenses.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Sanford and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

What to eat in Sanford

Here are some must-try dishes in Sanford, Florida, United States of America:

• Key Lime Pie: A quintessential Floridian dessert, this tart and creamy pie features a buttery graham cracker crust filled with a luscious blend of key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks. Often topped with fluffy whipped cream, it embodies the sunny flavors of the region and is a must-try while visiting Sanford.
• Cuban Sandwich: A delightful sandwich that showcases the cultural melting pot of Florida, the Cuban sandwich features layers of ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed between Cuban bread. This savory creation is a popular choice for lunch and reflects the rich history of Cuban immigrants in the area, making it a perfect culinary experience to enjoy in Sanford.

Best time to go to Sanford

Sanford experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 60.1°F (15.6°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 82.4°F (28.0°C). August is usually the wettest month. March, April, and July are the peak travel months in Sanford, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, August, October, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by dry to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.