If you’re saving up a budget to visit Greece but looking for a getaway closer to home in the meantime, consider a trip to DeLand, Florida. Known as “The Athens of Florida,” DeLand has long been celebrated for its intellectual roots and artsy culture. But unlike the Greek capital and other popular and least-walkable Florida cities like Orlando, DeLand is slow-paced and sans crowds. It’s very walkable, so visitors can easily spend a day admiring the city’s historic murals on foot, shaded by ancient oak trees lining the streets. DeLand’s Historic Garden District is full of heritage sites, and the city’s Bill Dreggors Park (also a historic site) offers a Sensory Butterfly Garden open for exploration.
Founded in the late 1800s, DeLand is home to Stetson University, the oldest private college and home to the first law school in the Sunshine State. The stately campus gives the city a distinctly academic energy. But beyond the university, this small city is loaded with appeal, from vibrant art to an award-winning main street and a steady stream of creatives and entrepreneurs who’ve put down roots here instead of bigger cities.
One thing visitors to DeLand can’t skip is the DeLand Mural Walk, which not only guides you through the historic downtown but offers a visual tour through the city’s history. Local businesses have embraced the art-forward identity too; you’ll find quirky signage and hand-painted windows across the district. It’s not a huge city, but that’s part of the magic. In DeLand, a coffee shop can double as a community hub, and a bookstore might host both a reading and a folk show in the same weekend. The vibe is warm and welcoming — a dose of Southern hospitality with an artistic and modern edge.
Art walks and indie shops in DeLand, Florida
The DeLand Mural Walk is only one of many artsy endeavors in town. The DeLand Museum of Art is another must-visit for art lovers, with rotating exhibitions and partner programs, such as the DeLand Sculpture Walk, DeLand Miniature Art Adventure, and Utility Box Art Wrap. There’s also the African American Museum of the Arts, which hosts a revolving gallery and permanent collection of art and artifacts. This museum also sponsors the DeLand Black Heritage Trail, mapped out cycling and walking routes to important Black historical landmarks throughout the city. Visitors can catch a show at the Athens Theatre, first established in 1921. Don’t worry — the shows have been updated, with tickets to modern performances available online.
When it’s time to refuel, you’ve got plenty of options. Boston Coffeehouse and Trilogy are cozy spots to grab a brew and fresh-baked pastry. Restaurants like Urban Brick, Bake Chop, and Mongoose are local favorites for a meal. To stick with the Greek theme, grab a table at Santorini’s for traditional plates like gyros, moussaka, spanakopita, and more. Insider tip: if you happen to be visiting on a Friday, don’t miss the Artisan Alley farmers market held every Friday from 6 to 9 p.m.
Visitors should plan on shopping downtown in the many shops and boutiques offering everything from gifts and local art to clothes, antiques, jewelry, vinyls, and more. Anna’s Bananas sells handcrafted furniture, and vintage and thrift lovers should check out Nancy’s Vintage and Retro, Wild Violet Vintage, and Ms. Preppy Pants Consignment Boutique. Pop into The Muse Bookshop, a longtime local favorite with floor-to-ceiling shelves stuffed with reading material. A few steps away, Pretty Little Things sells curated gifts and handmade accessories — perfect for picking up a souvenir.
Outdoor strolls and lakeside fun in DeLand, Florida
