Tucked between the glow of Orlando and the high-speed hum of Daytona lies West Volusia County, a pocket of the Sunshine State where time seems to slow down. Here, luxury isn’t found in the emerald stillness of a natural spring or the preserved brick-lined charm of America’s best Main Street. From the Artisan Alley of DeLand to the quiet thrill of a manatee sighting, the region offers a wealth of experiences that feel deeply intentional without an excessive price tag.
Here’s a selection of our favorite free (or nearly free) things to do in West Volusia.
Lyonia Preserve & Environmental Center
Explore the high scrub habitat for a rare encounter with the Florida Scrub-Jay, an inquisitive, endangered species found only in the Sunshine State. Beyond the hiking trails, the indoor environmental center features hands-on exhibits and a saltwater aquarium. Free admission.
Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp
Discover the “Psychic Capital of the World” by exploring its whimsical Fairy Garden and historic architecture. It is a place of profound quiet and curiosity; while exploring the grounds is free, you may also choose to schedule a session with a resident medium to experience the camp’s insightful traditions firsthand.
The Spring-to-Spring Trail
Experience the outdoors by hiking or biking along this nearly 26-mile paved multimodal trail which spans from DeLeon Springs State Park, through Blue Spring State Park, and continues to Gemini Springs Park, ultimately concluding at Green Springs Park in Enterprise.
The Gillespie Museum
Located on the campus of Stetson University, this historic museum houses one of the premier mineral collections in the Southeast. Explore over 1,000 displays of glowing fluorescent rocks, prehistoric fossils, and a walk-through “Sandhill Ecosystem” restoration. Free admission; donations are welcome.
Downtown DeLand Historic District
Stroll the only main street in the U.S. to be named both a “Great American Main Street” and “America’s Best Main Street.” This vibrant district blends century-old architecture with a modern, independent spirit. Exploring the murals and historic storefronts is free; dining and boutique shopping are at your own discretion.
DeBary Hall Historic Site
Explore the 19th-century estate grounds of a prominent wine merchant and admire the Victorian architecture for free. Guided tours of the 1871 hunting lodge are $5 for adults and $2 for children.
DeLand Naval Air Station Museum
Uncover the storied history of this former WWII training facility, once home to the legendary Avenger torpedo bombers. Exploring the vintage aircraft and military artifacts is free, though donations are encouraged to support their ongoing preservation.
Museum of Art — DeLand
Take in the soulful landscapes of the Florida Highwaymen, a featured exhibition of 26 legendary self-taught African American artists. Admission is $10 for adults but remains free for children 18 and under.
Barberville Pioneer Settlement
Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2026, this 30-acre living history museum features 19 historic structures and thousands of artifacts. Self-guided tours through the 1800s village are $10 for adults and $4 for children (ages 6–12).
Spring Festivals
Attend free events like the DeLand Outdoor Art Festival and the Florida Wildflower & Garden Festival (both on March 28–29, 2026), which transform Earl Brown Park and Downtown DeLand into a massive open air gallery. In April, head to Valentine Park for the Orange City Blueberry Fest (April 18–19, 2026) to celebrate the local harvest with live music, artisan vendors, and plenty of fresh berries.
DeLand Mural Walk
Follow a self-guided tour to discover the city’s vibrant, storied murals hidden in plain sight. Pick up a map at the MainStreet DeLand office (100 N Woodland Blvd.) to uncover these captivating artworks that detail the rich history of DeLand’s community. Free access.
Skydive DeLand
Witness why this destination is known as the “Skydiving Capital of the World.” Watching world class jumpers and colorful canopies descend from the observation area is entirely free; if you choose to take the plunge yourself, tandem jumps typically start around $200 to $250. The views are, of course, free.
Hontoon Island State Park
Take a short, free ferry ride across the St. Johns River to reach this secluded island retreat. Famous for its ancient Timucua history and “blueway” trails, it is a premier destination for kayaking or hiking in total stillness. Free admission and ferry; kayak rentals are approximately $20 per hour.
Artisan Alley Farmers Market
Browse a vibrant evening marketplace of over 40 local vendors every Friday from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. From organic produce and “cottage food” treats to handcrafted jewelry, it is a dog-friendly local favorite. Free admission.
West Volusia Historical Society
Uncover the lore of the region during a tour of the 1886 DeLand House Museum. Walking tours regularly leave from the Conrad Center of Stetson University and the historic North West residential district. Museum tours are $10 for non-members and $5 for students.
African American Museum of the Arts
Celebrate the grand opening of the museum’s newest wing (February 2026) and explore a permanent collection of over 150 artifacts from Africa and the Caribbean. This vital cultural hub features rotating exhibits by established and emerging Black artists. Free admission; donations are welcome.
Green Springs Park
Witness the striking emerald hues of one of Florida’s few naturally occurring green sulfur springs. Once a 19th-century health resort destination, the park now offers a serene escape with shaded overlooks and paved nature trails. Free admission.
DeLeon Springs State Park
Start your morning by flipping your own stoneground pancakes on a tabletop griddle at the Old Sugar Mill Restaurant, then cool off in the park’s 72 degree spring. Admission is $6 per vehicle; the pancake experience is approximately $8.99 per person.
Burgess Pavilion & DeLand Memorial Hospital
Located within Bill Dreggors Park, this site preserves the history of West Volusia’s first hospital and the African American community’s vital contributions to medicine and culture. Free admission; donations are welcome.
Blue Spring State Park
Witness hundreds of manatees seeking refuge in 72 degree waters through mid-March. As the “gentle giants” depart for the season, the pristine spring run reopens for swimming, snorkeling, and tubing. Admission is $6 per vehicle.
More information on West Volusia County can be picked up in our Visitor Center located at 116 W. New York Avenue in Downtown DeLand, FL or can be found online on our website at VisitWestVolusia.com. Please call (386) 734-0162 for more information.
