Hotels in Sanford

Sanford: Where Tranquil Waters Meet Untamed Adventure

Nestled along the sparkling shores of Lake Monroe, Sanford, Florida, is a charming gem that beautifully blends nature and culture. This historic city boasts a vibrant downtown filled with quaint shops, delectable dining, and artful galleries. Outdoor enthusiasts can revel in the scenic views along the St. Johns River, perfect for boating and fishing. Wander through the lush parks or take a leisurely stroll on the RiverWalk, immersing yourself in the area's natural beauty. With its warm Southern hospitality and rich history, Sanford offers an inviting escape for all types of travellers, from romantics to adventure seekers. For our best hotel rates in Sanford and to enhance your stay, 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 Alafaya, Baldwin Park and Azalea Park. Alafaya, Baldwin Park, and Azalea Park are fantastic choices for travellers visiting Sanford, Florida. Alafaya offers a vibrant atmosphere with shopping and dining options. Baldwin Park is known for its picturesque lakes and parks, perfect for relaxation. Azalea Park features beautiful gardens and a friendly community vibe. For accommodations, expect a range from budget-friendly motels to comfortable mid-range hotels, catering to various preferences. Baldwin Park is ideal for first-time visitors, combining charm with convenient access to local attractions. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Sanford:

1. AlafayaOpens in a new window: Alafaya is a vibrant area centered around educational institutions like the University of Central Florida and entertainment venues such as Addition Financial Arena. It’s perfect for those interested in culture and family activities. In this area, consider staying at Hilton Garden Inn Orlando East/UCF AreaOpens in a new window, a 3-star hotel that caters to business and pet-friendly travellers, offering amenities such as a 24-hour business centre and meeting rooms. Another option is Holiday Inn Express & Suites Orlando East - UCF Area by IHGOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel suitable for business guests, equipped with essential business amenities. Lastly, Holiday Inn Orlando East - UCF Area by IHGOpens in a new window is another 3-star hotel that combines business and family-friendly services, ensuring a comfortable stay for all.
2. Baldwin ParkOpens in a new window: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Baldwin Park is home to cultural gems like the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts and Orlando Science Center. Consider staying at Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando DowntownOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel that welcomes pets and offers a variety of business amenities. Another great option is The Alfond InnOpens in a new window, a 4-star boutique hotel showcasing unique Tuscan design. For a pet-friendly option, The Delaney HotelOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel that provides a comfortable atmosphere and essential business services.
3. Azalea ParkOpens in a new window: Azalea Park is an inviting family-oriented destination featuring cultural attractions like the Orlando Science Center and Tinker Field. DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando AirportOpens in a new window is a 4-star hotel ideal for families, providing child-friendly amenities such as free cribs. For more adventure-oriented experiences, Rosen Shingle CreekOpens in a new window is a 4.5-star hotel that offers various recreation activities and services for families. Finally, The Ritz-Carlton OrlandoOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel, features golf experiences and amenities tailored for families, ensuring a fun-filled stay.

Things to do in Sanford for first times

Three days in Sanford offer a delightful escape to a natural paradise, with tranquil lakes and winding rivers perfect for boating and hiking. Enjoy vibrant live music, shopping, and theatre, while exploring lush parks and scenic trails that invite relaxation and adventure amidst breathtaking landscapes. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Sanford:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the serene Lake Monroe, where you can soak in the natural beauty and perhaps enjoy some birdwatching or a peaceful walk along the shore. Next, make your way to DeBary Hall Historic Site, a beautiful estate where you can learn about local history and architecture. Finish your day at the Art Affair Gallery, where you can appreciate local art and maybe pick up a unique souvenir to remember your trip.
• Day 2: Start your day exploring Historic Downtown Sanford, with its charming shops and vibrant atmosphere—perfect for a leisurely breakfast. Afterward, head to the Lake Monroe Conservation Area for a scenic hike, where you can immerse yourself in Florida’s natural landscape. Conclude your day with a visit to Pell's Citrus & Nursery, where you can learn about local agriculture and even sample some delicious citrus fruits.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Blue Spring State Park, a fantastic spot for swimming and viewing manatees in their natural habitat. After enjoying the park, visit the Sanford Museum to delve into the area’s rich history and culture. Finally, wrap up your trip with a relaxing excursion along the Wekiva River, where you can appreciate the picturesque surroundings and perhaps take a kayak out on the water for a memorable end to your visit.

4 tips to find a great Sanford hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Sanford is during August, September, and November when hotel prices drop significantly. For domestic travellers, it's advisable to book your flight at least two months in advance to secure more affordable rates. International travellers should aim to book their flights at least three months ahead for the best deals. To truly appreciate the main attractions, including the scenic lake and river, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended. This way, you can enjoy a great value for money while exploring the beauty of Sanford.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Sanford, Hotels.com is a great resource. To explore potential discounts, simply head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the site, where you may discover reduced rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about flash sales and special last-minute promotions, so you could find the best hotel deal and not miss out on any opportunities to save.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices may fluctuate due to factors like the property's location, star rating, and the season. Consequently, being flexible with your travel dates could increase the likelihood of saving on hotel expenses in Sanford.
4. Consider your location: When booking your holiday accommodations on Hotels.com, take your location into account. Staying closer to major attractions or city centres can offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and ease of access to the places you intend to visit.

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 tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Sanford are March, April, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, August, October, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.