DeLand City Guide

Food focuses on Southern comfort and fresh seafood. There’s some Mexican, Italian, and Asian options. Vegetarian and vegan choices exist but are limited. Late-night options are mostly fast food.

Nightlife is quiet with local pubs and a few live music spots mainly downtown. The university adds some student energy.

A mix of independent coffee shops and chains. Some focus on specialty coffee. The scene centers on community and relaxed vibes.

Tipping is expected in restaurants and services. 15-20% is common for good restaurant service and rideshares. Smaller tips or rounding up for casual or quick service is normal.

SIM cards can be bought at AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon stores, and Best Buy. All main carriers offer good coverage and some provide eSIMs. Post-paid plans need ID or passport.

Generally clean streets, especially downtown and near the university. Regular waste pickup and recycling services.

Some pharmacies, convenience stores, and the hospital emergency room are open 24/7. Food options at night are mostly fast food.

Main supermarkets are Publix, Winn-Dixie, and Walmart Supercenter. Stores usually open 7 AM to 10 or 11 PM and are open on Sundays and holidays. Bargaining does not happen.

Most places accept credit and debit cards. Cash is rarely needed but useful for small vendors and tipping.

ATMs are available at banks like Truist, Wells Fargo, and Bank of America, plus convenience stores. Out-of-network ATM fees range from $2.50 to $5.

DeLand High School, DeLand Middle School, and Stetson University are key schools with instruction mainly in English. Admission follows standard district or university rules.

No large nomad community or regular meetups. Some cafes and libraries offer good work environments. Limited networking options.

Good access to parks like Earl Brown Park and Lake Beresford Park with shaded walking paths and running trails.

Popular running routes include Stetson University and Lake Beresford Park. Running is generally safe with scenic trails.

Several gyms and sports leagues are available.

Public tennis courts at parks like Earl Brown Park are mostly hard courts. Some private clubs and coaching available.

Padel courts are not common.

Several yoga studios offer various styles with drop-in classes and English-speaking instructors.

Martial arts schools offer Karate, Taekwondo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and self-defense. Trial classes and drop-in options are common.

No skiing in or near DeLand.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing are popular on local springs and rivers with rentals and tours available.

Surfing is available on nearby Atlantic beaches. Waters are warm year-round, with fall and winter offering best swells. Beginner to intermediate spots and surf schools are available.

Freshwater spring diving and snorkeling nearby offer excellent visibility and wildlife like manatees. Ocean diving is limited locally but available nearby.

AdventHealth DeLand hospital handles emergencies and specialties. Clinics and urgent care centers are available with English-speaking staff. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens are common for prescriptions and OTC meds.

Tap water meets all federal and state safety standards and is safe to drink.

Parks with playgrounds and kid-friendly cafes are common. Baby supplies are easy to find. Attractions include the Museum of Art and Stetson Mansion.

Generally accepting downtown and around the university. Some inclusive venues and small pride events happen. Legal protections exist but are limited compared to some areas.

Pet-friendly with dog parks, vet clinics, and pet supply stores. Many outdoor spaces and eateries welcome pets.