Orange City is a charming spot in Florida that offers more than just its small-town feel. Its proximity to Blue Spring State Park makes it a prime destination for outdoor lovers wanting to experience Florida’s wildlife and natural beauty. We’re particularly fond of the guides leading boat and kayak tours, thanks to their intimate settings and expert insights. If you’re after a hands-on experience, the Blue Spring State Park Guided Kayak Tour stands out. It’s perfect for anyone eager to see wading birds, manatees, and alligators in their natural habitat. For those who prefer a little more fun on land, the Segway tour offers a relaxed way to explore areas often off-limits to normal visitors.
Overall, Orange City’s tours are great for water enthusiasts, wildlife watchers, and those looking to combine gentle activity with nature. Whether you’re paddling a kayak, floating on a standup paddleboard, or gliding through the park on a Segway, there’s something for every explorer here.
Quick Overview
Our top picks for Orange City city tours highlight the area’s natural beauty and wildlife. You’ll find options that include guided kayak adventures (#1), standup paddleboarding combined with kayaking (#2), and guided Segway tours (#3). Below, we take a closer look at each one to help you decide which best fits your interests and style.
1. Orange City: Blue Spring State Park Guided Kayak Tour
At number one, the Blue Spring State Park Guided Kayak Tour is an excellent choice for nature lovers who want an in-depth look at Florida’s wildlife. This 2-hour guided excursion takes you along the St. Johns River, where your naturalist guides will point out the local flora and fauna. The small group setting ensures personalized attention, making it ideal for birders, photographers, or anyone interested in a peaceful paddle through pristine waters.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on biodiversity. You’ll paddle through Blue Spring State Park, known for hundreds of wading birds, gentle manatees, and the occasional alligator. The guides’ 25 years of experience mean you’ll learn about the ecosystem’s delicate balance and the wildlife that thrives here. Because it’s a small group, you’ll have ample opportunities for photos and questions. The tour costs $75 per person for 2 hours, offering good value given the intimacy and expert guidance.
Bottom line: This tour appeals most to travelers wanting a personalized, educational experience with plenty of chances to see Florida’s iconic animals in their natural environment. If you prefer a relaxed pace and expert insights, this will be a highlight of your trip.
2. Orange City: Blue Spring State Park SUP & Kayaking Tour
Next on our list is the Blue Spring State Park SUP & Kayaking Tour, which offers a slightly more versatile experience. For around $65, this 2-hour guided tour allows you to choose between paddling a kayak or trying a standup paddleboard (SUP). It’s perfect if you want a flexible, active outing with a focus on wildlife viewing and relaxation.
The tour explores a protected manatee refuge, so you’re likely to see these gentle giants up close. The calm, warm waters and the chance to spot bald eagles and sandhill cranes make this a delightful experience for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. The guides will teach you how to maneuver a SUP and/or kayak, making it accessible even if you’re new to either activity.
While the 1/5 rating from reviews suggests some inconsistency, the experience itself offers a peaceful paddle through a scenic environment. It’s best suited for those who want a gentle, hands-on introduction to standup paddleboarding and kayaking, with the bonus of wildlife sightings.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for a flexible, beginner-friendly water activity and enjoy the idea of seeing manatees in their natural habitat, this tour provides good value and a relaxing way to explore Blue Spring State Park.
$65 per person
3. Orange City: Guided Segway Tour in Blue Spring State Park
For a different kind of adventure, consider the Guided Segway Tour in Blue Spring State Park. At $75 for 1.5 hours, this tour offers a fun, easy way to cover more ground in a short time. After a quick 10-minute training session, you’ll glide through the scenic park with your guide, stopping at hidden gems and enjoying views that are often off-limits to casual visitors.
This tour is perfect for those who want to combine light activity with sightseeing without getting tired. It’s especially appealing to travelers who enjoy tech-friendly activities and want to explore areas of the park that are normally closed to the public. The tour’s highlights include multiple photo stops and the chance to discover parts of Blue Spring State Park that you might not see on foot.
While the reviews are currently unavailable, the experience itself has a good balance of fun and education. It’s best suited for visitors who enjoy a bit of novelty and want a quick, engaging way to explore the natural surroundings.
Bottom line: If you’re after a short, energetic adventure with a twist — and don’t mind the price — the Segway tour offers a memorable way to see Blue Spring State Park from a different perspective.
$75 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
When selecting a tour in Orange City, think about your budget, activity level, and interests. For a deep dive into wildlife with personalized attention, the kayak tour (#1) is hard to beat. If you prefer a flexible, active water experience, the SUP & kayaking combo (#2) is ideal. For a fun, tech-savvy exploration, the Segway adventure (#3) offers a quick, entertaining way to see the park.
Consider your fitness level and whether you want a guided educational experience or a more relaxed sightseeing tour. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak winter months when manatees are most visible. Also, check if your activity choice aligns with your schedule — the kayak and SUP tours are best for those with a couple of hours to spare, while the Segway fits into a shorter window.
Final Thoughts
Orange City offers a nice variety of outdoor tours focused on its natural environment. From intimate wildlife encounters on the water to playful land-based explorations, there’s something to suit every type of traveler. If you love birdwatching and wildlife, the kayak tours are a top pick. For relaxed, active exploration, the paddleboarding and Segway options add a fun twist.
Whatever your choice, booking early will help secure your spot in these popular experiences. Take your pick, and enjoy the lush beauty of Orange City and Blue Spring State Park — a Florida treasure just waiting to be discovered.