Located about 34 miles north of Orlando, DeLand is the seat of Volusia County. The area around the city has a long history that goes all the way back to 1874, when Captain John Rich built a log cabin there. In 1876, a baking soda magnate called Henry Addison DeLand visited the area and envisioned establishing an agricultural and tourism center there. In the same year, he founded the town and named it after himself.
In 1883, DeLand constructed DeLand Academy, the first private college in Florida. When he returned to his home in New York after a freeze destroyed his orange crop, he entrusted the academy to a hat manufacturer called John B. Stetson. In 1889, the institution was renamed John B. Stetson University. DeLand was incorporated as a city in 1882 and became the seat of Volusia County five years later. It was the first community in Florida to have access to electricity.
DeLand experienced a land boom in the 1920s. Many buildings with Mediterranean Revival architecture were constructed during this time, earning the city the nickname “The Athens of Florida.” Some of the buildings have been restored over the years, including the famous Athens Theatre.
Today, DeLand has a population of about 33,500 residents and a total land area of 17.8 square miles. Its historic districts and popular festivals make it one of the most visited cities in Northeast Florida.
When Is the Best Time to Visit DeLand, Florida?
DeLand experiences hot weather for about six months of the year and pleasant temperatures for the remaining months. The best time to visit the city is from mid-October to early May, when average temperatures range from the high 50s to low 70s. August is typically the hottest month in DeLand. During this time, highs are often around 91 degrees and temperatures rarely fall below 72 degrees at night.
When you're planning your DeLand trip, it's important to note that the city attracts a large number of tourists in spring and summer. During these seasons, hotels tend to charge higher rates, which can significantly drive up your travel costs. Additionally, many hotels will be fully occupied, so you may have limited accommodation options. If you want to save money and avoid the crowds, it's recommended that you visit DeLand in September or October.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Deland, FL:
Deland, FL: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below we've posted 3 graphs illustrating avg. price patterns by star rating class in Deland, FL. Browse these line graphs to calculate the best dates to book in Deland for your upcoming travels.
Which Are the Best Hotels in DeLand, Florida?
4 Star Average Prices: $124.79
For a more comfortable stay, opt for Courtyard DeLand Historic Downtown. Located in downtown DeLand, this three-star hotel provides convenient access to many popular attractions, including Stetson University, the African American Museum of the Arts, and Athens Theatre. Its 104 air-conditioned rooms feature Wi-Fi with a surcharge, satellite programming, smart televisions, refrigerators, safes, and hair dryers. It also offers amenities such as an outdoor pool, fitness center, on-site restaurant, business center, and two meeting rooms.
Alternatively, you can book a room at Hampton Inn & Suites in DeLand. This hotel is situated about 2 miles north of downtown DeLand, 2 miles from Stetson Mansion, 6 miles from Hontoon Island State Park, and 16 miles from Daytona International Speedway. It has 94 rooms that are equipped with complimentary wired and wireless internet connection, cable programming, LCD televisions, refrigerators, laptop-compatible safes, and hair dryers. During your stay, you can take advantage of amenities such as an outdoor pool, a fitness center, an on-site restaurant, a business center, and a conference space.
What Are the Top Budget-Friendly Hotels in DeLand, Florida?
3 Star Average Prices: $107.12
If you don't mind being a little farther from town, you can save money by staying at Travelodge by Wyndham Deltona. Situated about 10 miles south of DeLand in Deltona, this hotel is 4 miles from the Central Florida Zoo, 9 miles from Hontoon Island State Park, and 11 miles from Stetson University. It has 123 air-conditioned rooms with complimentary Wi-Fi, cable programming, LCD televisions, refrigerators, microwaves, safes, and hair dryers. Its on-site amenities include an outdoor pool, a picnic area, a business center, and a conference space.
Days Inn by Wyndham Orange City/DeLand is another great option for budget travelers. This hotel is 4 miles south of DeLand in Orange City, 2 miles from Blue Spring State Park, 3 miles from Henry A. DeLand House Museum, and 11 miles from Monroe Harbor Marina. All its 37 rooms come with free W-Fi, cable programming, refrigerators, and microwaves. As a guest, you'll have access to amenities such as an outdoor pool, a picnic area, a terrace, a convenience store, and laundry services.