60 Things To Do & Places To Visit In Florida

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: August 29, 2020  - Last updated: October 15, 2023

things to do in Florida

Florida, the Sunshine State, is a delightful haven for tourism.

Beaches, museums, art features, and cultural flair, often all close to each other, make Florida a vacation location unlike any other!

But with so many fun choices, you might struggle to choose where to go.

To help you decide what sites are must-visit vacation spots for you, here is a travel guide of the 60 top things to do and places to visit in Florida!

Table of Contents

1. Castillo de San Marcos

Castillo de San Marcos

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Castillo de San Marcos is an extremely historic location, found along the shore of Florida in St. Augustine .

The gray structure rises into the sky, made from stonewalls famous for being “unbreakable”.

Holes of different sizes punctuate the walls, showing off all the battles and wars that the fort proudly stood against as it served the land that would become Florida.

This fortress of sorts was built in the 17th century by Spaniards who needed to keep their trading activities well-protected.

The walls remained strong against British siege for even two months straight, and many cannonballs remain lodged in the stonewall to this day. But how are the walls so strong?

Well, according to the material engineering students who uncovered the secrets of Castillo de San Marcos, the walls are made from a sedimentary rock type named coquina that doesn’t crack.

This is because it is composed of dead marine organism shells that have fluid particles, meaning it almost behaves more like foam than stone.

It was the best material the Spaniards could have chosen – and now, this gem of a fort is one of the state’s many points of interest, providing gorgeous views of the city and bay.

Address:  1 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084, United States

2. St. Augustine

St. Augustine

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It’s impossible not to acknowledge the wonderful St. Augustine, which is undoubtedly one of the most enticing cities to visit in the state of Florida.

It’s the oldest city in America, which is why it’s one of the most-visited destinations for those who love immersing themselves in history and fascinating architecture.

The city is located along the northeastern side of Florida and is packed with buildings and structures that date back to Spanish colonial times.

You’ve already read about the incredible Castillo de San Marcos, but there are plenty of other things to check out, such as the many stretches of beautiful beach, Anastasia State Park, quirky eateries, and quaint roads.

3. Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens

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Busch Gardens is a marvel full of safari action suitable for the whole family.

Located in the Tampa, Florida area, it’s home to over 300 different animal species (and over 12,000 individual animals) that are sure to excite and amaze.

Not much for animals?

Don’t worry; there’s a reason that Busch Gardens is ranked among the top 10 amusement parks in all of America, according to readers of USA Today!

A delightful roller coaster – floorless and extremely thrilling with shocking drops, angles, and speeds, is just one of its many draws.

Address:  10165 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612, United States

If you’re going to spend more time in Tampa, be sure to check out some fun things to do in Tampa !

4. Gatorland

Gatorland

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One of the top things to do in Florida for natural excitement is Gatorland , home to hundreds of alligators, crocodiles, and similar reptiles.

It’s one of the best ways to get back to the roots of good, old-fashioned enjoyment; feeding shows with room for audience participation, interesting tours, and a low price result in a kind of amusement park one may often forget exists in Florida.

Once you’re done with Orlando’s Gatorland, more adventurous tourists can attempt to check out the Gatorland in South Bay – now abandoned with only one building remaining.

It’s certainly fascinating to wander around and reminisce in the eerie, forgotten structure that still stands as a reminder of what once was.

Address:  14501 S Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32837, United States

5. Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park

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If you seek to go sightseeing while in Florida, an absolute must-see spot is the Everglades National Park .

Covering a whopping 1.5 million acres, this subtropical wetlands sits in the southernmost part of Florida.

The wild area has earned a spot on the list of International Biosphere Reserve – and it’s also a World Heritage Site!

Everglades National Park was set up as a result of environmentalists who petitioned the government to preserve its nature.

It was formed in 1947 and is now, behind Yellowstone, America’s second-largest national park.

Primarily, it consists of swamp and subtropical marsh, with river, mangroves, and flatwoods that all act as habitats for hundreds of animal species, including endangered or threatened ones.

If you’re lucky, you might see some of them, such as the state panther, the manatee, the leatherback turtle, and the American crocodile.

Given its large size, most choose to check out only fractions of the Everglades National Park.

A simple walk works wonders, but guided boat tours, tram rides, and hiking tours are also great ways to get a feel of the park and experience its joys.

Address: 40001 State Road 9336, Florida City, FL 33034, United States

6. Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park

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The Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the best and most beautiful places in Florida to visit.

It spans across the Las Tortugas islands, so named by its “discoverer” Juan Ponce de Leon after the turtles he consumed to survive while he journeyed throughout the tumultuous waters of the world.

Since its discovery in 1513, the islands have grown.

Originally consisting mainly of coral, sea turtles, and saltwater, the Dry Tortugas soon became a common spot for explorers and merchants alike, which unintentionally caused it to host a good many shipwrecks as it earned the nickname “ship trap”.

It then became home to forts protecting the land, then as a prison, then as a coaling station, then again as a location during the war, and, finally, a national park.

The Dry Tortugas is now a large national park, and they’re so remote that they can only be visited via seaplane or boat.

This has made them one of the county’s least visited parks both in Florida and across the nation.

Address: Key West, FL 33040, United States

7. Legoland

Legoland

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Coming to Florida with kids who seek fun and exciting activities?

Legoland is an easy bet for one of the best things to do in Florida with children!

It’s the brand’s second-largest theme park, encompassing an impressive 145 acres of land and hosting more than 50 different rides – all Lego-themed!

A wide range of different attractions makes Legoland a real treat.

A water park, tours, rides, places to build Lego creations, shows, life-sized Lego mascots, and everything else you’d need to make any Lego fanatic jump for joy are found all throughout.

There is also a botanical garden and a hotel. The latter had themed Lego rooms, such as wizard, pirate, medieval, and more!

Address:  1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven, FL 33884, United States

8. Discovery Cove

Discovery Cove

Discovery Cove

Discovery Cove is one of the most delightful tourist attractions for marine animal-lovers in Florida.

The attraction sits in Orlando and is famous for allowing guests to get up close and personal with intelligent, sweet bottlenose dolphins!

You’ll get to talk to, touch, play with, and overall enjoy the company of these lovely mammals.

Apart from dolphins, many other marine creatures are available to befriend, including manta rays.

Apart from that, Discovery Cove has a one-of-a-kind feature where you get to essentially walk “underwater” along the ocean floor with the aid of a dive helmet.

You’ll also get to visit a freshwater lagoon that houses tropical birds (eager to be fed by questions) and otters.

It’s undoubtedly the loveliest way to learn about sea creatures in Florida.

Address:  6000 Discovery Cove Way, Orlando, FL 32821, United States

If you want to see more of this beautiful city in Florida, here are some of the best things to do in Orlando !

9. Venetian Pool

Venetian Pool

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The Venetian Pool is among the most famous and best places to see in the state of Florida because it’s America’s biggest freshwater swimming pool.

Located in Coral Gables of Florida, it is a very unique water feature that offers fun and relaxation to visitors.

The pool, now on the National Register of Historic Places, was built in an abandoned quarry for coral rocks back in 1924, designed to mimic the appearance of a Mediterranean-style Venetian grotto.

Natural grotto caves add to the overall aesthetic.

Perhaps the Venetian Pool’s most iconic feature is its stunningly crystal clear blue freshwater, always clean and clear.

The secret?

A natural system for filtration.

Originally, the water had to be drained out and replaced daily with artesian spring water, but after backlash from water conservationists, this filtration system allows pool water to be drained out and then back into an aquifer.

This basically means the filtration system cleans the pool and replaces it with its own clean remnants every day – though the traditional method of refilling water is still used in springtime and summer.

Because this means the pool stands empty sometimes, it is often used for events, like concerts.

Address: 2701 De Soto Blvd, Coral Gables, FL 33134, United States

10. Salvador Dali Museum

Salvador Dali Museum

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Whoever said old art is just for adults hasn’t seen much of Salvador Dali’s work.

The Salvador Dali Museum is the planet’s second-largest Dali artwork collection and lives in St. Petersburg, Florida, by the lovely waterfront.

The building carries Dali’s artistic spirits, with skylights in bubble-like shapes, waxed mustache decor, melting clocks, spindly sculptures, geometric windows, and wrap-around wall lights.

Originally, the Dali Museum’s contents were part of a collection owned by Reynolds and Eleanor Morse in their Cleveland hometown.

In 1982, the collection was moved to its current location in Florida, though only as a warehouse at first.

In 2011, it became an expanded museum and now it houses all sorts of oddities and wonders in more than 2,000 pieces!

All sorts of intriguing works are on display, including surreal paintings and seven masterworks, such as The Discovery of America by Christopher Columbus and The Hallucinogenic Toreador.

There are also films, photographs, and visiting collections from similar icons of the art world.

The Salvador Dali Museum, Florida is open daily and its special events make it a treat to go almost all the time, and even going this weekend is likely to net you something interesting!

Address:  1 Dali Blvd, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, United States

11. Daytona 500

Daytona 500

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The Daytona 500 race is the pinnacle of Nascar sportsmanship, often considered the most important of its events.

At the Daytona National Speedway in Florida, this race is held each February as a herald of the racing season.

Originally, before the Speedway’s creation in 1959, these races were held at Daytona Beach.

As per its name, the Daytona 500 spans 500 miles, and its tickets can be quite pricey.

However, the fun adrenaline of the race often makes the Daytona International Speedway one of the go-to places of interest in the state of Florida during the start of the racing season.

Even if you can’t watch a race, you can still go to the speedway; there are events in summer, music festivals at certain times of the year, and tours held regardless of the season!

Address: 1801 W International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, United States

12. Kennedy Space Center

Kennedy Space Center

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The Kennedy Space Center , close to Orlando, is a gem of NASA and one of the best activities for space-lovers in Florida who are seeking educational and exciting stuff to do.

The space center is home to all sorts of machinery and items relating to space exploration, from rocket launchers to historic memorabilia.

The Kennedy Space Center spans 140,000 acres and has served as a launch site for some of the country’s most important space shuttle missions.

Exhibits and showcases give you special insight into the world of NASA and two IMAX theaters play all sorts of fascinating and fun films related to space travel and discovery.

If you’re interested, you can opt for a bus tour of the spaceport that shows you the center grounds.

There are many different kinds of tours available, arranged chronologically so you can get a comprehensive look at the history of NASA, its stories, and its goals for the future.

It’s truly out of this world; by the time you’re done, you won’t even feel like you’re in Florida anymore!

Address: Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL 32899, United States

13. Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum

Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum

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Given the rich background of journalist and novelist Ernest Hemingway, it’s no surprise that the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum is one of the many famous places loved by tourists in Florida.

Though the prolific man lived in many locations over his life, this home in particular has a good deal of importance to it.

Located in Key West, Florida on Whitehead street, this house was moved to by Hemingway in the mid-1920s as he moved from Paris to America at the advice of a friend and soon-to-be-legendary author John Dos Passos.

It was a gift by one of his uncles, evidently above what Hemingway could have been able to afford on his own; opulent Spanish-style architecture and luxurious fixings make the house, now, a treat for its design as much as its history.

In this house, Hemingway wrote A Farewell to Arms and parts of other great novels like Green Hills of Africa , Death in the Afternoon , and For Whom the Bell Tolls .

He also got the nickname Papa while living in this house and gained the inspiration for To Have and Have Not .

Now, visitors to the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum get to view over 20 years of memorabilia dating to Hemingway’s time in the home, from his typewriter to his hunting trophies – and more than 50 cats, most of which have extra toes!

Supposedly, these are almost all descended from a six-toed cat that Hemingway owned.

Address:  907 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040, United States

14. Miami Beach

Miami Beach

Few would visit Florida without taking a trip to one of its top beaches, Miami Beach.

It’s a haven for tourism, culture, and even authentic local experiences.

From families to models and from celebrities to critics, it seems like anyone who is (and isn’t) anyone goes here.

The beach is family-friendly, lined with affordable eateries, and very close by to all sorts of attractions like museums, theaters, and galleries.

Soak up the sun and surf, fish on piers, try some watersports, or do all of the above!

It’s quintessential Florida in a nutshell.

Want to take part in one of the most fun things to do in Florida without dealing with excessive crowds?

Head south to South Beach or South Pointe Park to find a more curated scene with different kinds of people.

Spending more time in Miami? Check out some of the best things to do in Miami !

15. Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is located along Florida’s southeastern coast and is often considered a must-do for tourists who love picturesque experiences, lovely beaches, and the ability to wander!

It’s one of the best ways to get an authentic taste of Florida, with beaches, sun, relaxation, shopping, and more – and it’s called the Venice of America, and you can’t go wrong with that!

Fort Lauderdale packed with great places to check out, including the Strip (a promenade full of boutiques, restaurants, hotels, shops, and bars), the 1901 Stranahan House (the oldest building that remains standing in the city), and attractions like Hugh Taylor Birch State Park and the Swimming Hall of Fame.

That’s not all! If you’re spending more time here, be sure to check out some of the fun things to do in Fort Lauderdale !

16. Bok Tower Gardens

Bok Tower Gardens

The Bok Tower Gardens are among the most beautiful places in Florida for sightseeing and architecture.

It was built for Edward W. Bok and Mary Louise Curtis Bok by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted Jr, completed in 1926 after five years of work.

The couples wanted to create a bird sanctuary after visiting Lake Wales Ridge in the winter.

Bok essentially gifted the Bok Tower Gardens to Florida and its people and it’s full of fun and beautiful vacation spots to find and marvel at.

This includes the Iron Mountain (one of the state’s highest points), a 205-foot singing tower of Art Deco, and neo-gothic style (marked by a brass door; you need to pay to enter), and of course a carillon – one of the finest in the world.

There is also a carillon library packed with photographs, books, scores, recordings, and articles about the instrument.

The carillon is played twice daily at one and three in the afternoon respectively.

Address:  1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853, United States

17. Panama City Beach

Panama City Beach

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Panama City Beach is one of the best places to visit in Florida if you’re seeking a vibrant coastal town that shows off the liveliest parts of Florida’s coast.

It’s full of stretches of beach, vibrant nightlife, and options for all ages.

There’s no shortage of things to do at Panama City Beach.

There’s Shipwreck Island Waterpark (with waterslides and pools), Gulf World Marine Park (where you can swim with marine life), Lake Powell, Camp Helen State Park, Russell-Fields Pier, and even the Gulf of Mexico itself.

A mix of wildlife paradise and nightlife haven, you’re sure to find something to love in this little town!

Address: 7940 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407, United States

18. Neptune Memorial Reef

Neptune Memorial Reef

Neptune Memorial Reef

A mix of mystery, fun, adventure, and the somber eclipse Neptune Memorial Reef , a “lost city” 40 feet beneath sea level.

It was originally called the Atlantis Memorial Reef that serves as an artificial reef for marine life and an underwater cemetery.

Its current name is earned from its sponsor, a cremation company called the Neptune Society.

Located a short distance from Miami’s Key Biscayne, the Neptune Memorial Reef opened its gates in 2007.

Designed by local artist Kim Brandell, it spans 16 acres and was specifically designed to be a hospital home for coral and marine life.

Divers can check out the place and swim through the park to observe the many memorials.

The Neptune Memorial Reef holds cremated remains that have been cast into memorials of concrete, arranged throughout the memorial park.

A mix of steel and bronze accents add flair and enchanting touches to the concrete.

One famous person laid to rest here is Bert Kilbride, who was once the world’s oldest scuba diver.

As far as Florida attractions go, it’s one of a kind!

Address: 3.25 miles offshore, Key Biscayne, FL 33149, United States

19. Clearwater

Clearwater

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There is no shortage of things to see in Clearwater , noted for housing a 3-mile expanse of one of the best beach stretches in Florida.

It’s among the favorite tourist attractions for beachgoers and divers, especially given its narrow but long-reaching barrier reef.

Hotels, eateries, and resorts line the sands, and its small-town aesthetic makes it a great, quieter vacation location in Florida.

Apart from heading to the beach, while in Clearwater, Florida, you can visit the Moccasin Lake Nature Park (full of boardwalk trails), Pier 60 (a great place to watch street performances and the sunset), the Bright House Field (where spring training is held for the baseball team of the Phillies), or the Clearwater Marine Aquarium (which is home to the dolphins that starred in the Dolphin Tale films).

20. Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World is the epitome of bucket list spots in Florida, full of excitement and fun that brings anyone’s inner child out to play.

It’s such a popular spot that it’s widely considered a staple for what to do in Florida.

You’ll get to experience all the magic, whimsy, and charm of Disney up close and personal at Walt Disney World, situated in Orlando, Florida.

The amusement park is packed with rides of all sorts, delicious Disney-themed treats, great souvenir shopping, and more!

You’ll also get to take pictures with awesome character actors.

If you’re going this weekend, consider a Fastpass that lets you skip some of the very long lines.

Address: World Drive, Orlando, FL 32830, United States

21. Fort Pickens

Fort Pickens

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Fort Pickens sits at the far end of all the beach and coast stretches in Florida.

As a military fort that dates back to the Civil War and early 19th century times, it’s one of the points of interest in the state known for its historical value.

The fort was finished in 1834, built as a result of remaining fears because of the War of 1812.

Its original function was to protect Pensacola Bay as the region moved on past the wars of yesterday to the hope of tomorrow.

It was mainly built by slave labor in difficult and inhumane conditions, and its engineer would eventually join the Confederacy.

Ironically, during the Civil War, this fort never left union control despite being attacked by its own engineer and many other Confederate forces!

After the Civil War, Fort Pickens would serve as an Indian Wars prison, even housing Geronimo.

Now, though, the fort rests in peaceful times in this corner of Florida.

Its remains are a national park and allow you to look through prisoner cells, officer quarters, gunrooms, mine chambers, exercise spaces, and cannons.

Address:  1400 Fort Pickens Rd, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561, United States

22. Key West

Key West

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It’s impossible not to think of Key West as one of the main cities to visit in Florida.

It’s actually the most western inhabited island in all of the United States.

As part of the Florida Keys, Key West is fun, vibrant, culturally rich, and packed with activities.

Streets are lined with bars, eateries, and stores that all give you more of a taste of Cuba than the state you’re in due to how near it is to the border.

While here, be sure to check out Duval Street (colorful and loved by tourists for its old buildings and Caribbean heritage), Mallory Square (a lovely spot full of street performers and great sunset views), the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory (for free-flying butterflies and exotic flowers), and the Key West lighthouse (that rises 65 feet into the air and provides great ocean views).

If you’re going to spend more time in Key West, don’t forget to check out some of the best Key West attractions !

23. Universal Studios

Universal Studios

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To talk about Florida and its tourist draws without mentioning Universal Studios is almost a crime!

Just like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios is a staple for pop culture-lovers.

Witness all your favorite moments from the entertainment world come to life right here in Florida!

To save money, it’s advisable that you purchase a multiday ticket in advance and plan your trip accordingly.

Universal Studios is often very crowded and busy, so you might also want the Universal Express Pass option on top of that, which lets you skip the line.

If you come back often, you can even get a season pass for super special treatment.

Address:  6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, United States

24. John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art

John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art

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The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art has a rather fun history and a tale that is more than worth it to explore.

John Ringling, a circus magnate, and entrepreneur, and his wife Mabel spent much of their fortune on this huge mansion that housed their art collection.

The Venetian-styled building in Sarasota is nothing short of beautiful and its contents were left to Florida when they passed away.

For a long time, the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art was sorely neglected.

At long last, though, the Florida State University received the rights to manage the museum by the state in the year 2000.

They raised funds to put in a Visitor’s Center and turn the estate into a lavish museum that focused not just on the art collection of the Ringlings, but also on artifacts pertaining to the life and times of the circus tycoon.

They also added a lovely rose garden to the grounds.

The art collection showcased here is rather eclectic, as it was the Ringlings’ own personal collection.

From Cypriot works to Old Masters, they are all displayed in this wonderfully restored structure.

At the circus museum, you can view a bit of an oxymoron – the planet’s largest circus miniature!

Address:  5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243, United States

Before you venture out, here’s what to do in Sarasota for a memorable vacation!

25. Delray Beach

Delray Beach

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Delray Beach isn’t actually a beach; rather, it’s a small coastal town situated in Miami.

It was founded by Seminoles and is the most peaceful little spot you’ll probably be able to find in that part of Florida.

After all, there’s a reason it’s called the Village by the Sea!

Delray Beach has a very bohemian feel to it and has a lot of energy in its streets, but it’s low-key and relaxing, leaving behind luxury for simplicity and charm.

If you walk through Atlantic Avenue, you’ll appreciate the delightful lights, and all throughout the town, quaint eateries, local shops, and quirky galleries await.

Bright beach stretching two miles, blissfully free from overcrowded stress, is another big draw.

Though it may not be as exciting as the rest of the state, Delray Beach is a must-see for anyone tired of the glam and glitz of Miami.

It’s got the greatest options for kicking back and relaxing!

26. Manatee Springs State Park

Manatee Springs State Park

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Manatee Springs is one of the most beautiful places in the state of Florida, located on the northwestern side.

It was named by William Bartram, a naturalist, in the 18th century after something surprisingly morbid for a place so gorgeous – after the carcass of a manatee, washed up along the Suwannee River.

Since its slightly sad beginnings, Manatee Springs has become a state park, and it continues to live up to its name in a much more positive way.

The springs stay at an even and warm temperature of 72º F throughout the entire year, so manatees swim up into the park for a spot of good temperature in the winter.

Speckled perch, alligators, and large-mouth bass also come here during the time.

Watching the activities of these animals is fun and thrilling, and if you go kayaking in the park, these animals often swim up to you and ask for pets!

You might even spot baby manatees, as the warm waters make for a great manatee nursery!

Address:  11650 NW 115 St, Chiefland, FL 32626, United States

27. Siesta Key

Siesta Key

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Siesta Key is probably most known for being a star of certain reality TV shows on MTV, but those shows painted an incorrect picture; in reality, Siesta Key is one of the best places to visit in Florida!

The island houses 8 miles of heavenly white sands and blue surf, and it was clearly chosen for a show centering on privilege and wealth simply because of its beauty and opulence.

A more low-key part of the island, and part of the reason it’s one of Florida’s coolest tourist attractions, is Siesta Key Village.

It’s like a blast from the past here and you’ll feel like you walked into a 1950s set!

Seafood eateries selling fresh catches daily, homemade ice cream parlors, and small cafes all make for a quaint and rustic experience.

The island may be small, but what it lacks in size, it certainly makes up for in flavor!

28. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens were once the estate (and villa) of the famous socialite and industrial executive James Deering – who was also a conservationist.

Originally, it covered 180 acres of land and was designed to conserve native forest and mangrove swamps.

Situated on Biscayne Bay in Coconut Grove, it’s a great spot for sightseeing and relaxation and is one of the Florida attractions that is sure to satisfy nature-lovers.

The main building was constructed between the years 1914 and 1916 and was used by Deering as a winter home upon completion.

Meanwhile, the rest of the home continued being built for seven more years until Deering passed away at sea.

His nieces then inherited the property, and they both decided to sell off parts of the estate in order to pay for the maintenance required on the rest of it.

Twenty years later, Miami’s Mercy Hospital and the Catholic Archdiocese of St. Augustine had a lot of the land donated to them.

Then, fifty acres surrounding the main building were purchased by the Miami-Dade County and restoration efforts led to the estate becoming a National Historic Landmark.

Now, it’s a mix of fun and picturesque with Italian Renaissance gardens, native woodland, and historic outbuildings that all make a tourist location and a host for ceremonies.

Address:  3251 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33129, United States

Destin

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Destin is one of the top Florida’s places to see, and that’s partly due to its nickname: the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.

Situated on the Florida Panhandle, it’s famous for gorgeous beaches, great fishing, and excellent golfing opportunities.

It was once a fishing town, but a connecting bridge caused its population to grow, and it is now home to at least 13,000 residents.

Need some ideas for ways to fill your time here?

Go to the Big Kahuna water park, walk on Destin Harbor Boardwalk, enrich yourself at the Destin History and Fishing Museum, immerse yourself in history at Fort Walton Mound, or get close to nature at Henderson Beach State Park.

If you’re going to be spending more time here, don’t forget to check out some incredible things to do in Destin, Florida !

30. Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

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The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is a fantastic and fun way for butterfly-lovers to get some excitement.

Hundreds upon hundreds of butterflies and moths enjoy a natural habitat of beautiful flowers.

There are also flamingos and other exotic birds from outside of Florida to gaze upon!

Head to the conservatory’s learning center to learn about metamorphosis and the life cycles of moths and butterflies, as well as how they eat, reproduce, and move.

There is also the Wings of Imagination art gallery that allows you to view vibrant technicolor renditions of butterfly-themed art.

So the next time you’re in Key West, Florida, be sure to drop by!

Address:  1316 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040, United States

31. Devil’s Den

Devil's Den

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Still asking about what to visit while in Florida?

The state is home to plenty of other sites of wonder and awe – like the Devil’s Den !

Located near Williston, Devil’s Den is an underground river that now has a cave entrance to the surface, thanks to the collapse of its roof.

In other words, this is a rare opportunity for visitors to go scuba-diving in a subterranean river.

The waters stay a balmy 72 degrees Fahrenheit all year round, so you’re reassured of a comfortable diving experience no matter the season.

It makes for a wonderful sight on cold winter mornings, where visitors can see the steam rising up from the river’s cave chimney!

Visitors will have to be serious divers and snorkelers, however.

Devil’s Den is a private scuba diving training and recreational facility that does not allow casual visitors, swimmers, pets, and children under the age of 6.

You – or a guardian, should you be under 18 – will also have to sign an insurance liability waiver upon entering the property as well.

Address:  5390 NE 180 Ave, Williston, FL 32696, United States

32. Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island

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Florida is home to all sorts of postcard-worthy beaches that are perfect for all sorts of fun activities.

Anna Maria Island, however, may just take the cake.

Located south of St. Petersburg, Florida, this island is seven miles long and full of scenic charm.

Visitors asking about what to see here will find that there’s plenty in the form of beautiful sunsets and untouched nature.

If you’re not enjoying a sunset with a grouper sandwich from a lounge chair on the docks, you ought to be snorkeling through Egmont Key or joining a kayaking tour.

Interested in marine biology?

The island is home to all sorts of stingrays, dolphins, and even manatees.

Additionally, history buffs will also find plenty to marvel at as well!

From abandoned shipwrecks to historic Spanish-American sea forts, there’s plenty to see and do on this quiet little island.

33. Coral Castle

Coral Castle

BorisVetshev / Shutterstock

Looking for a castle?

You don’t have to fly all the way to Europe for one.

Located in Florida is perhaps one of the most unorthodox locales on the list of famous places the state has to offer.

Originally named Rock Gate Park by its builder, the strange and wondrous castle is usually known these days as Coral Castle .

After he was jilted by his partner the day before their wedding, Latvian Ed Leedskalnin boarded one of the many ships to the US, where he eventually settled in Florida.

He evidently never got over his lost love, however, and tapped into his stonemason heritage to build Coral Castle.

Despite his height and weight of 5 feet and 100 pounds, Leedskalnin managed to cut, shape, and move blocks of Oolitic Limestone that weighed over 30 tons and were often over 25 feet tall – all for the construction of his monument of love.

The completed castle contains incredible things like a stone rocking chair and a 9-ton gate that, astonishingly, only needs a light touch to spin open.

Due to his secretive working habits, some have speculated that Leedskalnin may have used magic to build his castle.

Of course, the most reliable way to find out the truth is to check out the castle yourself!

Address:  28655 S Dixie Hwy, Homestead, FL 33033, United States

34. Amelia Island

Amelia Island

Madison Y Photo / Shutterstock

The world is full of beautiful places – and Florida is home to some of them.

At the top of the list is Amelia Island, a hidden gem squirreled away into one of the chains of barrier islands that dot the East Coast.

Once home to roaming pirates, Amelia Island’s beaches are now better known for its idyllic scenery, quiet charm, and its shrimp industry.

Hop on over to enjoy nature at its most serene, or check out one of the many outdoor activities the island has to offer!

Want to experience more thrill? Located about 40 miles from Amelia Island, here are some Jacksonville attractions to not miss!

35. Fort Myers

Fort Myers

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War has left its mark on Florida, in a way that cannot be ignored or denied.

So it’s only natural that some of the best tourist attractions in the state include leftovers of that era of blood.

These days, however, visiting them is less of a depressing reminder.

Instead, it’s actually one of the many fun things to do in Florida!

Originally a fort constructed on the banks of Caloosahatchee River, Fort Myers these days is a modern commercial center with easy access to Florida’s famous beaches.

Once you’re done snorkeling, kayaking, swimming, or just plain relaxing, it’s a quick jaunt to the Imaginarium Science Center – an aquarium that doubles as a hands-on science museum!

Don’t worry if you’re a history or nature buff, either.

The city still has plenty to offer in those spots!

Try checking out the historic homes and buildings on the grounds, or one of the many wildlife and nature preserves in the general vicinity!

36. Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island

Nagel Photography / Shutterstock

One of the best things to do in Florida is to simply just lie down on a beach and enjoy the quiet sights and sounds of nature.

Sure, it might not sound super fun or exciting, but sometimes that’s just really all you need.

And Sanibel Island is more than capable of filling that need to do absolutely nothing!

Don’t want to lounge on a beach all day?

Don’t worry, there’s plenty of other things to do still.

You can try swimming, boating, and snorkeling in the pristine waters around the island, or consider combing the beaches for the abundant amount of seashells that wash up onto the beach.

Additionally, half of Sanibel Island is home to a massive mangrove forest, which houses some 245 different bird species – along with all sorts of animals, reptiles, and sea creatures native to the lands and seas of Florida!

37. Southernmost Point Buoy

Southernmost Point Buoy

Dennis Kartenkaemper / Shutterstock

Looking for the southernmost point of the United States?

This massive concrete monument claims to mark the exact point!

In reality, this isn’t actually the case – Hawaii is actually located further south.

It’s still one of the many major Florida attractions the state has to offer, however, since it still works as a marker for the southernmost point of the continental US.

Located in Key West, Florida, the monument is surrounded by all sorts of themed hotels, inns, shops, bars, and gift shops that have sprung up to serve the tourism boom.

So despite it simply being a marker for a physical location, the space surrounding the monument is bustling with all sorts of activities!

It’s a good idea to go there first thing in the morning before the crowds start coming in.

Grab yourself a cup of Cuban coffee, then drive on down to check out the fascinating sight yourself!

Address:  Whitehead St &, South St, Key West, FL 33040, United States

38. Mount Dora

Mount Dora

Jillian Cain Photography / Shutterstock

Don’t let its small size and quaint atmosphere fool you – Mount Dora is still jammed packed with all sorts of fun things to see and do.

Located near Orlando, the town is full of Old Florida charm – from its vintage clapboard houses to its antique handmade shops.

If you’re someone who loves exploring, this small town is for you.

Art, wine, spices, and knick-knacks line the streets here, and the shops are full of fascinating antiques.

It also happens to be close to other wonderful attractions – like some of the greatest natural swimming holes in Florida!

39. Seaside

Seaside

Kristi Blokhin / Shutterstock

If you’ve ever been a fan of The Truman Show, you may already have a point on your bucket list dedicated to visiting this locale in Florida.

Located between the well-known party towns of Destin and Panama City, Seaside is a quaint and idyllic town that genuinely is just as cozy as it appears in the movie.

Visitors dropping by this tranquil little town will find it to be a wonderful respite after traveling through the busier parts of Florida.

Here, you can enjoy the sight of pastel-colored homes lined up behind white picket fences, and a gorgeous example of the many beaches the state is famous for.

Seaside is also home to an annual concert that draws in some of the best musical artists from across the country.

If you’ve missed the date, however, not to worry – there’s still plenty of local shops and restaurants to visit, and even a fantastic farmer’s market!

40. Apalachicola

Apalachicola

Jacob Boomsma / Shutterstock

For those hunting down the “Old South” charm and history, one of the many points of interest the Florida Panhandle has to offer in that regard is Apalachicola.

And it’s not too hard to see why that’s the case!

Crammed full of preserved, historic homes and oak-lined streets, this small fishing village allows visitors to step back in time to see how beautiful Florida was when it was still overwhelmed with nature and greenery.

Additionally, visitors here will also get an opportunity to see and experience how the timber, oyster, and fishing industries are like on a ground level.

If you’re just looking for a quick retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, Apalachicola has got you covered too.

The town is surrounded by half a million acres of forest, and as such will envelop you in the tranquil peace nature has to offer!

Want to experience more thrill? Located about 199 miles from Apalachicola, here’s what to do in Pensacola ! 

41. St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg

Noah Densmore / Shutterstock

One of the best cities to visit in Florida is – hands down – St. Petersburg .

Thanks to its location on a peninsula, this modern city is lined with beautiful beaches from all sides.

So if you’re someone who loves kayaking, hiking, or camping on the beach, St. Petersburg – nicknamed “Sunshine City” – is the best place to be!

If the beaches are too full of beach-goers for your liking, however, don’t worry.

St. Petersburg is also home to fishing charters.

Hop down to the docks to watch fishermen at work, or to the nearby Locale Market for fresh seafood and local delights!

The city is also home to several world-class museums and sees all sorts of cultural, musical, and food-based events all year round.

Assuming you miss seeing any of these events, there’s still plenty of restaurants and pubs to comb through, a lively nightlife to check out!

42. Florida Museum of Natural History

Florida Museum of Natural History

Kyle S Lo / Shutterstock

Of all the fun and unique tourist spots to visit in Florida, the last thing you’d expect to see on the list is a stuffy museum.

After all, what exciting activities could there be in such a place?

The Florida Museum of Natural History , however, may just change your mind.

Home to all sorts of incredible exhibits, the museum is a marvel to look at no matter what time of the year.

Drop by to check out all sorts of fossils, or even the butterfly rainforest exhibit!

Address:  3215 Hull Rd, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States

Want to explore Gainesville more? Here’s what to do in Gainesville !

43. International Drive

International Drive

NavinTar / Shutterstock

You might not have expected a driving down a thoroughfare to be one of the top cool things to do in Florida, but the International Drive is an exception to the rule.

Also known as the I-Drive, it serves as an 11 miles-long tourist strip full of all sorts of attractions.

It is essentially a theme park you can walk through!

Here, visitors can find all sorts of entertainment.

You can find mini-golf fields, live shows, an incredible assortment of dining options, and various shops.

The I-Drive is also home to a go-kart track, a museum, all kinds of amusement rides, escape rooms, and even an option to go on a helicopter ride!

Additionally, kids and adults alike will also find the waxwork museum and Ripley’s Believe it or Not! exhibition to be fascinating to visit.

All in all, the I-Drive is guaranteed to be a wonderful experience for friends and families visiting Florida!

Address: International Dr, Orlando, FL, United States

Naples

ESB Professional / Shutterstock

Looking for fun on the coastline of Florida?

Then one of your must-see destinations is Naples !

With its gorgeous white beaches that stretch out for miles, Naples has rightfully earned its spot as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Florida.

Not a fan of sand?

The 1888 Naples Pier has got your back.

This iconic pier is a lively place, full of people fishing or keeping an eye out for the local marine life.

If you’re struggling to see anything but still want to check out the local wildlife, Naples Zoo may be the solution for you.

Located at the Caribbean Gardens, visitors can watch animals flocking onto various small islands dotting an artificial lake.

This is perfect for any nature lovers who are interested in checking out the regional wildlife making their homes here.

Additionally, there’s plenty of history and culture to be found here too!

45. Pirate & Treasure Museum

Pirate & Treasure Museum

EQRoy / Shutterstock

Ever had some pirate-themed vacation ideas you wanted to try out?

Florida is perfect for this goal, thanks to the St. Augustine’s Pirate and Treasure Museum .

Founded by Pat Croce, this museum features 48 different exhibits and one of the largest collections of authentic pirate artifacts in the world.

Some of the incredible things on display in this museum include the likes of Blackbeard’s blunderbuss and some of the original gold pieces retrieved from his ship.

The museum also has informative exhibits about the life of various buccaneers and the treasures and weapons they had collected during their life while raiding the coast of Florida.

The museum is also home to a treasure hunt that will certainly keep your kids entertained from room to room – though if you’d like, you can tap into your inner child and try hunting down said treasure yourself too!

Address:  12 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084, United States

46. WonderWorks

WonderWorks

WonderWorks is known to be one of the best places to visit in Florida if you have kids, and it’s easy to see why.

This fun theme park is one-of-a-kind and can be found nowhere else save in Florida.

And it’s easy to spot too – it looks like a building that has been uprooted and deposited upside-down!

Children will find this educational theme park to be an exciting and thrilling experience.

The themed exhibits combine science shows with hands-on exhibits and physical challenge zones, allowing children to run through the place and bodily learn about the science and the world around them – all while having a blast!

The museum is located on the famous International Drive – so if you’re already there, visiting it is just one of the many things you can do while exploring the entertainment and theme park strip!

Address:  9067 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819, United States

47. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

Holly Guerrio / Shutterstock

While the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens are now one of the best Florida attractions the state has to offer, it didn’t have the most straightforward history.

It was established in 1906 by George Morikami, a 19-year-old who was one of the many Japanese farmers hoping to cultivate pineapples in South Florida.

After his death, the nearby city of Delray Beach became a sister city to Miyazu in Morikami’s honor, and his farmland transformed into a tranquil Japanese oasis.

Full of manicured gardens and informative exhibits, the gardens will certainly soothe the minds and souls of all who visit!

Address:  4000 Morikami Park Rd, Delray Beach, FL 33446, United States

48. Naval Aviation Museum

Naval Aviation Museum

Steven Frame / Shutterstock

In need of informative entertainment for the aviation buff in your life?

Perhaps the Naval Aviation Museum is just what you need.

Located in Pensacola, this museum is one of the best places to go to if you’re looking for a fun way to learn more about naval aviation – both its history and its present.

Here, visitors get to explore the inside guts of various airplanes and experience what it’s like to be inside each and every single one of the 150 aircrafts they have on display – including helicopters and biplanes!

Additionally, the museum is home to a flight simulator that allows visitors of all ages to try being a naval pilot exploring the skylines of Florida.

The museum has a wide-screen theatre that screens all sorts of aviation films, which is great for those who have an interest in film as well.

Otherwise, there’s plenty of exhibits that chronicle the history of various branches of military aviation as well!

Address:  1750 Radford Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32508, United States

49. Seacrest Wolf Preserve

Seacrest Wolf Preserve

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Lovers of wolves take note – while Florida has all sorts of fascinating locales, this may just be one of the many cool places you will have to visit.

Founded in 1999 by a husband and wife duo, the Seacrest Wolf Preserve is the only one of its kind in the entirety of Florida.

The preserve is predominantly home to timber wolves and arctic wolves, who were originally bred as captive animals and therefore cannot be returned to the wild.

Here in Florida, they are cared for alongside all sorts of other animals, and are part of the outreach to educate the public about healthy wild wolf populations in a fun and engaging manner!

So if you’re looking for a nice and educational experience for yourself and your loved ones, the Seacrest Wolf Preserve is the perfect place for you!

Address:  3449 Bonnett Pond Rd, Chipley, FL 32428, United States

50. Florida Caverns State Park

Florida Caverns State Park

IrinaK / Shutterstock

The Florida Caverns State Park is an incredible option for where to visit if you like nature and geology.

It offers one of the most unorthodox kinds of nature tours in the state: a delve into a limestone cave network in Marianna.

These caverns are subterranean and rich with flowstones, stalagmites, and stalactites.

There’s a surreal sort of aura about them that makes them feel almost like works of art – impressive, considering the caves originally began their formation a whopping 38 million years ago!

In fact, the caves all began life underwater.

Sediments, coral, and more hardened into limestone with the drop of water levels.

Those who choose this state park in what to do will be able to spot things like remains and fossils in the walls, such as shark teeth, fish vertebrae, and even a nautilus or two.

For more ways to pass the time after exploration, check out the state park’s nine-hole golf course!

Address:  3345 Caverns Rd, Marianna, FL 32446, United States

If you’ve got more time, don’t forget to check out some fun things to do in Tallahassee , located about 70 miles from Florida Caverns State Park!

51. Cassadaga

Cassadaga

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Cassadaga isn’t one of the more conventional tourist places to travel for visitors to Florida, but for those who like the wacky or strange, it’s a fun stop.

It is a spiritualist camp founded by George Colby, a medium, in 1875, with the aid of Lily Dale, New York spiritualist community members.

It began its life as part of the homestead grant land given to Colby.

At first, Cassadaga only spanned 35 acres, but now, it reaches 57 acres, with a total of 55 homes set up within.

Residents are typically mediums, psychics, or similar spiritualists who provide palm reading, seances, and more from within their homes.

The atmosphere is very much a departure from typical Florida and it’s an intriguing place, no matter which way you look at it.

While is Cassadaga, try to attend a Sunday Service, which is preceded by a healing service, or check out their bookstore to learn more about their beliefs.

Though it’s quite outlandish, Cassadaga is worth the visit, as it’s officially on the National Register of Historic Places as a Historic District.

52. Sunken Gardens

Sunken Gardens

Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock

The Sunken Gardens only exist in Florida now because of the actions of one man named George Turner, Sr., a local plumber.

He purchased the land that would become this garden in 1903 along the outskirts of St. Petersburg, Florida.

On the land was a lake spanning four acres, and Turner, as a gardener, wanted to access the fertile soil at the 15-foot-deep base of the lake for his garden activities.

He used his knowledge as a plumber to drain the lake and then, once he completed this task, set about creating a garden that would soon be one of the state’s most popular places.

In the humidity and fertility, Turner planted citrus trees and vegetables.

In the years that followed, he would add all sorts of tropical plants, useful walkways, and even tropical birds.

He funded all of this through purchases made by residents who paid for his fruit and vegetables.

Likely seeing a lucrative opportunity, the family of Turners bought the Sanitary Public Market building next door and converted it into the World’s Largest Gift Shop, among other things.

After interest dropped and the gardens became neglected, they were saved as a historic landmark by the town of St. Petersburg – and that’s how they got where they are today!

If you visit, make sure to stop by the Cactus Garden, the butterfly courtyard, and the flamingo flock.

You’ll love the lush greenery and tropical vibes that speak so truly of Florida’s nature!

Address:  1825 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704, United States

53. Stetson Mansion

Stetson Mansion

Ebyabe / CC BY-SA

Stetson Mansion is among the best opulent destinations in Florida.

It’s often referred to as the grandest, biggest, and most historic house of its kind built in the state prior to the 20th century.

Going on a tour of the mansion and learning of its history is one of the fun things to do in Florida.

You’ll learn about John B. Stetson, the hat mogul who lived here, and how Thomas Edison installed the very first kind of electricity here for Stetson!

Address:  1031 Camphor Ln, DeLand, FL 32720, United States

54. Bulow Plantation Ruins

Bulow Plantation Ruins

Richard345 / Shutterstock

The Bulow Plantation Ruins were created by Charles Wilhelm Bulow, who purchased a shocking 9,000 acres of land here to form his estate, named Bulow Ville – or, now, Bulow Plantation.

The ruins are now a part of Florida State Parks, having come a long way since its 19th-century origins.

Bulow used the land to grow indigo, sugarcane, rice, and cotton.

Everything about the location and land was convenient for his cause.

He used 300 slaves to clear the forested portion that encircled the plantation, but he died two years later and was succeeded by his 16-year-old son.

The Florida Wars raged not long after and the local militia removed Bulow from the property so they could use its strength as an operational base.

Unfortunately, they were attacked and the plantation was burned down after just 15 years of life.

If you’re into site seeing the eerie, visiting the few remnants of the Bulow Plantation is a fun endeavor and a surefire must do.

Address: 3501 Old Kings Road, Flagler Beach, FL 32136, United States

55. Warm Mineral Springs

Warm Mineral Springs

Warm Mineral Springs

The Warm Mineral Springs are located in Florida’s North Port within a sinkhole left behind by a subterranean cavern collapse that occurred more than 30,000 years prior.

A vent 200 feet below surface level is the water source, with over 20 million gallons of water – warm and mineralized – pumped out from it daily.

The geothermal water enjoys a heat of about 97 degrees, cooled to 85 degrees, and makes for a good place to add to vacation ideas in Florida.

There’s also something eerie to add to the top of this list of uniqueness – the artifacts and bones of seven individuals and a 10,000-year-old log were found by William Royal, an archeologist, in the 1950s.

The Warm Mineral Springs are not a health spa of sorts, with many rushing to bathe in the “healing” mineral waters.

The natural spa facility allows you to relax in the water as long as you respect its archeological cruciality.

Address:  12200 San Servando Ave, North Port, FL 34287, United States

56. Spook Hill

Spook Hill

Inspired By Maps / Shutterstock

Looking for unique things to do while in Florida?

Check out Spook Hill in Lake Wales, which has proudly earned its unusual name thanks to the many legends that surround it.

Spook Hill is also called “gravity hill” or “magnetic hill” because any cars placed in neutral here will give off the appearance of going uphill.

Some legends state that the hill is haunted and responsible for the anti-gravity nature of the Florida hill.

Check it for yourself for the fun of it and see what you think!

Address: N. Wales Dr., Lake Wales, FL 33853, United States

57. Ellaville

Ellaville

Don Barrett / flickr

Ellaville is a town that dates back to the civil war era, and it did very well in this spot up until about the 19th century.

It was founded by businessman George Drew, who would go onto become the first post-Reconstruction Florida governor.

It was named after his African-American servant Ella.

The construction of a sawmill in Ellaville in this part of Florida drew people into the town as it employed over 500 workers.

Eventually, a dock, station, schools, churches, lodge, and more were built in the booming town that would one day become one of many Florida attractions.

Unfortunately, after finding political success, Drew sold much of his shares in local companies and left Ellaville.

The mill burned down in 1898, and rebuilding took up pinewood resources needed for harvest.

Flooding, the Great Depression, and the eventual post office closure led to the town’s demise.

If you head to Ellaville now, you’ll see that little of it is left standing, but strangely, some once-abandoned homes are occupied again.

It’s worth the treat of walking through the town if you like abandoned places and history!

Address: Madison, FL 32340, United States

58. Ancient Spanish Monastery

Ancient Spanish Monastery

Mariusz Lopusiewicz / Shutterstock

The Ancient Spanish Monastery of Florida doesn’t really have an official name, but it’s one of the state’s definitely tourist draw sites because of the three Spanish cloisters that make it up.

These cloisters were built between 1133 and 1141 AD and served as a Cistercian monastery’s structure for 700 years until the 1830s when the cloisters were seized in the First Carlist War.

The cloisters were then turned into a grainery.

Eventually, Florida was sold by Spain to America in 1819, and a man named William Randolph Hearst took great interest in the cloisters and purchased them in 1925.

He then took them apart stone by stone into 11,000 boxes to ship them to his California home, but the boxes were all quarantined and the stones messed up in the process of checking them.

After Heart’s passing, the cloisters were finally reconstructed in Florida with the goal of becoming a fun tourist hotspot.

After 19 months of hard work determining what stones went where, labor paid off, and now this monastery is one of the places to go for history lovers!

Address:  16711 W Dixie Hwy, North Miami Beach, FL 33160, United States

59. The Kampong

The Kampong

The Kampong

Known to be one of the best vacation spots in the world , The Kampong is technically one of five gardens that make up a huge national botanical garden, but this garden is the only one located in Florida while the rest reside in Hawaii.

The Kampong is a tropical garden that benefits greatly from the monsoon climate of Miami, allowing for a laboratory of horticulture and lush nature.

The Kampong can be found in Coconut Grove and is one of the best places in Florida to get your fill of a natural paradise.

Originally, it was an estate that belonged to the famous plant explorer Dr. David Fairchild.

Fairchild brought over 200,000 different kinds of exotic plants, and he named the grounds after a Javanese word, borrowed from the English word “compound”, that means an enclosed village.

If you add visiting the Kampong to your list of what to do, you’ll stroll through thick foliage and meticulously planted cultivars for all kinds of tropical flora, like carambola, avocados, bananas, mangos, and more.

It’s a great and fun way to experience a world that simultaneously feels integral to and completely separate from Florida, all at once!

Address:  4013 Douglas Rd, Miami, FL 33133, United States

60. Castle Otttis

Castle Otttis

MarkWalters at English Wikipedia / Public domain

Castle Otttis is one of the most interesting places to explore in Florida – and that mysterious air of it is even more intensified by the fact that only private tours can be arranged on the privately-owned property.

The castle, inspired by millennia-old Irish castles, was designed with the intention of being open to the elements as a “landscape sculpture” by builders Ottis Sadler and Rusty Ickes.

The castle, which is intentionally spelled with three “t”s, rises over 50 feet into the air.

Its creators’ goal was to make artwork invoking a mix of Christian and Irish influences and they completed it themselves, never intending for it to become a business or residence of any kind.

The exterior boasts a 7 million pound split face facade with 88 openings, ramparts, and reinforced steel rods.

The interior, which took three years to finish, boasts southern heart-pine and cypress wood creations – staircases, pews, a bishop’s chair, a pulpit, a choir loft, and an altar.

Castle Otttis sits in St. Augustine, Florida, just along the shoreline and is officially American Institute of Architects recognized.

Events are often held here, and though it’s not a conventional fun type of location, it’s still worth a sightseeing visit for the sheer magnitude of the effort and artistic inspiration involved.

Address:  103 3rd St, St. Augustine, FL 32084, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Florida

Apart from being one of the most beautiful states , Florida is such an interesting place, offering some of the best bucket list-worthy attractions you’ll find in the country.

No matter what you’re interested in, there’s no shortage of fun vacation spots for adults, for children, and for families.

With such a vibrant community, there’s also something to enjoy in Florida, whether you plan a trip for tomorrow, this weekend, this week, or beyond.

Hopefully, this list of the best things to do in Florida has helped you figure out which of its many locations is at the top of your to-visit plans!

Top 10 Florida Vacation Destinations

places to visit in florida for vacation

Everyone is familiar with Florida's top vacation destination — Disney World. However, the Sunshine State has a lot more to offer than just Mickey and his crew. There are several other destinations that draw millions of visitors to Florida each year. If you're looking for a can't-miss place to go on vacation, you should consider one of these tried-and-true Florida vacation destinations. 

Disney World

Disney World 

Who can resist the fairy tale? Not many. Disney World is Florida's most popular vacation destination. Why shouldn't it be? Where else can you vacation at a magical and happy place? Where else can you exchange your simple life for a few magical days of castles, princesses and characters taken out of story books and your favorite Disney movies?

Unfortunately, Disney World can easily be the most expensive vacation you'll ever take too, but it doesn't have to be. Disney provides hotel resort accommodations for every budget — including value, moderate and deluxe — as well as a wide range of ticket choices and lots of different food options. 

Gina Pricope/Getty Images

There is more to Orlando than just Disney World. Universal Orlando is a popular destination resort with its own hotels and theme parks. Nearby, SeaWorld Orlando anchors the popular International Drive area that plays host to over 100 hotels and 150 spectacular restaurants.

The fun in Orlando doesn't stop there. Plenty of options abound for both the budget minded traveler as well as the discriminating vacationer. Additional resort opportunities, golf, themed, and dinner theater experiences and plenty more attractions are conveniently located within a few miles of the major theme parks. 

St. Augustine

Richard Cummins/Getty Images

Whether you're looking for romance or a family destination, you'll find it all in St. Augustine, America's oldest city. Located on Florida's east coast, St. Augustine's Old-World charm, sunny weather , historical monuments, unique attractions, world-class shopping, and beaches just minutes away make it an ideal vacation destination for couples and families alike.

John Warburton-Lee/Getty Images

They  Florida Keys are becoming increasingly touristy, drawing five million visitors a year. It may sound like a lot but when you think about the over 50 million that visit Disney each year, it's just a drop in the bucket.

This string of islands bound together by the Overseas Highway have become a diving and sport fishing mecca. Each island has its own ambiance – from Key Largo's suburbia, that serves as a bedroom community to Homestead and Miami, to Key West's Old Town that oozes with peculiar Key West charm that has made the town famous for decades.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a wealth of things to do and see – world-class snorkeling, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, and camping. Others will enjoy the history and endless entertainment.

Amelia Island

Anne Rippy/Getty Images

Florida's northernmost barrier island, Amelia Island , boasts 18 square miles of rich history and incredible natural beauty. Whether you're looking for an all-inclusive resort or a quaint oceanfront cottage, a sea-side villa or an ocean-view hotel... you'll find all that and more — dining, shopping, golf, and tennis — on Amelia Island.

Although the all-inclusive resorts in the area can be a bit pricey, there are alternative accommodations for the budget-minded traveler — from camping at area state parks to affordable hotels. While this may mean you might not enjoy oceanfront views, there is plenty of public beach access for a sand-sational vacation.

While the mention of Miami may conjure up visions of a tropical paradise — beaches, palm trees, and ocean surf — it is also one of the world's centers of commerce, fashion, and entertainment. Greater Miami offers visitors the cutting edge of urban-modern chic. Miami has evolved into an international destination for celebrities, artists, and aristocrats, and the world's most famous fun-in-the-sun playground . Visitors are lured to the area year-round with perfect weather, award-winning beaches and a celebrity-driven, sizzling nightlife scene that grooves to an only-in-Miami beat. 

Daytona Beach

Paul Giamou/Getty Images

Twenty-three miles of sparkling white sandy beaches and beautiful blue-green waters make Daytona Beach an irresistible playground for kids of all ages. This popular family vacation spot pretty much makes child's play out of having fun.

If you and your family can manage to tear yourselves away from the beach, you'll discover the Daytona Beach area is full of fun activities and attractions.

Panama City Beach

Panama City Beach CVB

The hub of what's often called the Redneck Riviera, Panama City Beach is not just a spring break hot spot, but a top beach destination for families. Panama City Beach has over 27 miles of beach, emerald green waters, and sugary white sands along the Gulf of Mexico.

Panama City is also filled with lots of ecotourism adventures like tours of Camp Helen State Park, Gayle's Trails greenways, and the pristine Shell Island. Don't be turned away by the city's party-life reputation, this is a great family place as well. 

Fort Myers/Sanibel Island

Danita Delimont/Getty Images

Fort Myers and Sanibel Island offer visitors some of the most pristine beaches in the country. If you're looking for a getaway where the only thing on your agenda is relaxing, this is a great place to visit. Most of the accommodations on Sanibel and its sister island, Captiva, are small and located directly on the water. 

The area is also known for its  great shelling , but also holds a few surprises — the J.N. "Ding" Darling Wildlife Refuge and some unique shopping and dining experiences among them.

Tampa/St. Petersburg/Clearwater

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This tri-city area, better known as Tampa Bay , is a favorite among those that prefer the white sand and gentle surf of the Gulf of Mexico. While Clearwater Beach is seemingly in transition — losing many of its quaint mom-and-pop motels to the queen-like condo towers — it still boasts one of the best beaches in the area. 

St. Petersburg not only offers a great beach but a downtown waterfront wonderland featuring The Pier.

While Tampa can't brag about its beaches, it has a busy cruise port and attractions like Busch Gardens and The Florida Aquarium, as well as Raymond James Stadium, home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Maps of Florida: From the Panhandle to the Keys

Florida's Coasts: Going Coastal

Romantic Florida for Honeymoon Couples and Other Lovers

December in Florida: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Summer Travel in Florida

Family Travel Guide: Clearwater Beach/St. Petersburg, Florida

The Top 10 Florida Beach Vacations

Florida's Climate and Weather

Best Toddler-Friendly Florida Beach Resorts

Exploring Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel Island

Great Summer Family Trips in the USA

The 10 Best RV Parks in Florida

The Best Spring Break Destinations for Families

The Very Best Family Vacations in the Southeast

The World's Most Gay-Friendly Beach Cities and Resorts

The Best Beach in Every State

9 of the best places to visit in Florida

David Gibb

Mar 14, 2024 • 7 min read

places to visit in florida for vacation

From cities packed with art, culture and nightlife to top beach destinations, these are the best places to visit in Florida © John Coletti / Getty Images

From sunny, white-sand beaches and untamed subtropical mangrove forests to bustling space centers and theme parks packed with excited kids, the Sunshine State is one gigantic fantasyland.

Choosing the best places to visit in Florida is no mean feat because this peninsular paradise is equally beautiful in many ways. Whether you're slipping away on a romantic sojourn or making family memories, here's a list of the places you simply shouldn't miss.

1. Miami, the "Magic City"

Best for parties and nightlife

With pastel-colored art deco buildings trimming sparkling azure waters,  Miami screams tropics. One of America's most visited cities, this bustling metropolis scores big with urban see-and-be-seen types. Crowd lovers bask in  South Beach's iconic energy, slathering on sunscreen to soak up scorching rays and indulging in the best people-watching opportunities the planet offers. And, for those who energize after dark, Miami's packed, world-renowned clubs epitomize wicked all-nighters. Miami scores big with foodies, too, who savor its tasty cuisines enhanced with strong Cuban and Caribbean flavors. 

Detour: A world apart, yet only 50 miles away, the Everglades offer a very different kind of wildness. Airboat, camp or take scenic drives to see gators and other exotic wildlife.

Here's how you can plan the ultimate long weekend in Miami.

2. Vero Beach 

Best for calm, romantic getaways

For a more sedate experience, visit the skyscraper-less beach of this under-the-radar jewel, just 150 miles north of Miami. There's little in the way of nightlife, but many find it a delightful reprieve. Embrace each new day with meditative yoga, digging your toes into warm sand as the sun rises over the ocean at popstar Gloria Estefan's  Costa d'Este resort (non-guests welcome). Grab an award-winning burger at  Casey's Place , a throwback to outdoor burger shacks of the 1970s, and learn the juicy history of Florida oranges at the tiny  Indian River Citrus Museum .

Detour: Visit  A.E. Backus Museum and Florida Highwaymen Museum in nearby Fort Pierce and become instant fans of this famous Florida landscape artist and the talented African-American painters he inspired.

Want more ideas for a beach vacation? Discover  Florida's best beaches .

People splash down a log flume at Universal, Florida, on a sunny day.

Best for theme parks and family activities

A place where dreams come true,  Orlando  is a cosmopolitan city sprinkled with pixie dust. Sure, there's serious business going on here, but you wouldn't know it basking inside a sun-kissed swan paddleboat on Lake Eola , surrounded by towering skyscrapers in the heart of downtown. The ultimate in family fun, Orlando offers  Disney parks  and  Universal  – theme parks that are bound to keep kids awake weeks before arriving. There's also a  chocolate museum , a  star-car museum  and, for when you really need a break from all the crowds and chaos (and you will!),  Leu Gardens , a tranquil 50-acre botanical paradise.

Detour: See what it's like to be an astronaut at  Kennedy Space Center , less than an hour's drive away.

Continue the fun at  Florida's best theme parks .

4. St Augustine

Best for history and arresting architecture

Step back in time by wandering ancient cobblestone streets in St Augustine , America's oldest city. Settled by Spaniards in 1565, the facades of Old Town buildings reflect the Spanish-Colonial and Spanish Renaissance Revival eras. Its main thoroughfare, St George Street, is packed with charming boutiques, tacky souvenir shops, and restaurants overlooking the glimmering waters of the Matanzas River. If museums, galleries and churches are up your alley, there are plenty of those nearby as well.

The seafront beach promenade in Fort Lauderdale is lined with palm trees, while blue sun loungers are laid out on the white-sand beach beyond.

5. Fort Lauderdale

Best for tantalizing beaches and boating

Blessed with an impressive stretch of white-sand beaches and seemingly endless canals,  Fort Lauderdale is heralded as the yachting capital of the world and "The Venice of America." Its  annual boat show  in October is the world's largest in-water boating show. Stroll the famous  Riverwalk , stop for a beer at the legendary  Elbo Room , watch mermaids perform at America's only underwater burlesque show , or shop and dine along famous  Las Olas Boulevard .

Detour: Take a narrated  water taxi tour to Hollywood Beach's lively  Broadwalk , passing mansions of the rich and famous along your journey. Buy an express pass or a hop-on, hop-off day pass with eleven scenic stops to enjoy.

A band performing in rockabilly outfits at the Green Parrot bar in Key West, Florida

6. Key West

Best for barhopping and snorkeling

Rows of pastel yellow, pink and green conch island homes with gingerbread trim complement  Key West's crystal-clear turquoise waters, transporting you to a world seemingly immune from daily problems. It's no wonder that world traveler and celebrated author Ernest Hemingway chose this Caribbean-style jewel to settle in during the 1930s (don't miss the museum about his life ).

Though laid-back by day, a festive party vibe dominates at night. (Some dive bars along Duval Street get rowdy, so avoid staying in Old Town if you want to sleep!) Foodies take note:  Key Lime Pie Co  bakes up some of the country's best, and  Conch Republic Seafood Company serves killer conch fritters, another Key West delicacy.

Detour: Ferries  and  seaplanes  shuttle to the secluded island paradise of  Dry Tortugas National Park , which has some of the world's greatest snorkeling in the shallow Florida Reef.

Two women walking on a path through palm trees at The Square shopping complex in West Palm Beach, Florida, USA.

7. West Palm Beach

Best for shopping and bargain hunting

West Palm Beach's palm-lined boulevards welcome visitors to some of Florida's best shopping. At the heart of it all is  The Square , a 72-acre shopping, dining and entertainment complex featuring brand-name retailers and specialty boutiques. Fill your bags, then relax by the central fountain to enjoy free classic rock and country music concerts. Don't miss the spectacular  GreenMarket , a downtown farmers market with more than 120 vendors, every Saturday morning (October to April). Sixty additional flea market booths leading up Clematis St certify it as a bargain hunter's utopia.

Detour:  Take a 10-minute ferry ride to nearby  Peanut Island , a snorkeler's paradise, where crystal-clear waters promise a captivating underwater adventure. It's all the more extraordinary for being the location of a nuclear bunker built for JFK, though it's currently closed to the public.

8. Fort Myers, "the City of Palms"

Best for local arts and fishing

Despite the devastation wrought upon  Fort Myers  Beach's seven miles of stunning coastline by Hurricane Ian in 2022, the recovery is well underway – with  Margaritaville Beach Resort leading the pack.

Sadly, its signature quaint pubs and boardwalk taco stands will be gone as the blank canvas is repainted with glossy chic. But that doesn't detract from the other riches this beautiful Gulf Coast area boasts. The bricked, palm-lined boulevards of downtown Fort Myers' River District are enhanced with colorful murals and artistic sculptures and dotted with bistros, cafes, galleries, museums and theaters. Deep-sea anglers reel in massive tarpon and swordfish nearby, while paddleboarders love navigating the Gulf Coast's calm, clear waters.

Detours:  Nearby  Sanibel Island  boasts a motherlode of almost 400 species of shells, while  Bonita Springs is a quiet enclave with cafes and microbreweries. Also, don't miss  Wonder Gardens , a lush botanical garden and animal rescue facility that first opened in 1936 and is still a throwback to "Old Florida."

A senior woman paddles on a paddleboard in shallow water off the coastline of Pensacola, Florida

9. Pensacola

Best for learning to surf

With emerald-green waters kissing 18 miles of powdery, sugar-white sand, Pensacola's spacious beaches are heaven to those seeking a secluded getaway. The unspoiled terrain of  Gulf Islands National Seashore , America's largest stretch of protected coastline, extends from both sides of Pensacola Beach, a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Its warm waters and gentle summer waves make it perfect for people learning to surf.

The city itself feels like a cross between an urban hub and a chill beach town, with award-winning eateries and chic boutiques. Seville Quarter , a former cigar warehouse complex, is packed with busy bars and trendy restaurants. Seville Square, a small historic park, hosts many unique music, food and art festivals throughout the year.

Detour: Dolphins regularly swarm the warm coastal waters off nearby Destin. Several local boat-tour operators offer guided excursions to observe these splendid creatures from a safe distance within their natural environment.

Planning a trip to Florida? Here's more of our expert advice:

From beaches to theme parks, don't miss these top experiences Here's when the Sunshine State gets the most sunshine (and other great times to visit) This is what you should know before any Florida trip These road trips will take you to all the highlights in Florida

This article was first published March 2018 and updated March 2024

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visiting bok towers is one of the best things to do in florida

36 Things To Do In Florida In 2023: FL Bucket List

August 26, 2023 //  by  Florida Trippers

Looking for some of the best things to do in Florida? I’ve got you covered!

Florida is full of adventure and unique places. From theme parks to sunken gardens, our famous beaches , historical cities, and hole-in-the-wall surprises, this state is great for any tourist or resident to explore!

As a Florida local, I have explored so much of the state and know all the best and underrated areas to visit! From top museums to beautiful beaches, I love exploring my amazing state!

Here I have put together a list of the cool things to do in Florida. But be warned: they are spread across the state, so be prepared to travel a bit!

And don’t forget you don’t have to visit all these stops, I just love them so much that I wanted to make sure you had a Florida bucket list to help navigate this wild, Sunshine State.

Here are some ideas of what to do in Florida!

Girl stands on a platform in water underground at Devil's Den, one of the best things to do in Florida.

Below I have included some of the most fun things to do in Florida as well as some of the most unique things to do in Florida. Visit where and when you can, and keep in mind that these are in no particular traveling order! Just go and have fun exploring the Sunshine State!

Devil’s Den

This underground spring is one of the U.S.’s most prehistoric places, so of course, I had to add it to your Florida bucket list! In my experience, it is one of the best hidden gems in Florida!

The spring of Devil’s Den is 120 feet in diameter and averages 72 degrees year-round. With a depth of 54 feet, many people come here to snorkel, scuba dive, and even rent a cabin or park their RV for some overnight adventure!

Recreationally, there are huge cabanas, charcoal grills, pavilions, lawn games, and a heated swimming pool, so this spring is full of things you can enjoy!

I used to dive here with my sister and dad before he passed so it holds a special place in our family. It really is such a cool place to explore!

You cannot miss out on Devil’s Den because it is a must-see in Florida attraction!

Where To Stay Near Devil’s Den! Little Ridge Ranch: Check Rates on Booking.com

Underwater shot of a girl swimming straight up in a ray of light.

Ginnie Springs

Ginnie Springs is a private park near High Springs, Florida, and is located near the Santa Fe River. Known for its clear and cold water, this is one of the best things to do in Florida during a hot summer day!

Make sure to check out my master post on the best time to visit Florida including a breakdown by month, weather, events, and more!

There are accessible caverns with sand and limestone bottoms at this spring, and you can float your way around the springs on inner tubes, kayaks, paddle boards, and more.

If interested you can also scuba or snorkel in “Florida’s favorite freshwater dive” or camp by at the wooded acres for a full adventure!

Personally, this is my favorite spring in Florida if I had to pick just one! My favorite part is the Devil’s Ear and Devil’s Eye caves.

Ginnie Springs really is one of the popular Florida things to do!

Where To Stay Near Ginnie Springs! BlueGem Motel : Check Rates on Booking.com

A woman with long hair uses a stand up paddle board in Ginnie Springs, one of the best things to do in Florida.

Ringling Museum

One of the coolest things to do in Florida is the Ringling Museum in Sarasota .

This museum is HUGE as it has a variety of different exhibits to explore. If you plan to visit, don’t forget to check out my tips for visiting the Ringling Museum !

From the John and Marble Ringling Museum of Art, which displays antiques and modern works, to the Circus Museum at the Ringling, which is an interactive American circus museum, you can spend hours exploring here.

The Bayfront gardens are also gorgeous, and you can visit the Ca’ d’ Zan mansion on the property! This is to say that this museum is massive (66 acres to be exact!) so give yourself time to marvel at everything!

There is a reason that this tops my list of places in Florida that feel like Europe!

I love that the Ringling Museum feels like Europe. It is a place I always recommend to people visiting Florida.

Check in advance for discounted or free days!

Where To Stay Near The Ringling Museum! Sandcastle Resort at Lido Beach : Check Rates on Booking.com

A woman standing in front of the Ringling museum in Sarasota wearing a blue dress.

Bok Tower Gardens

Florida is known for its nature and beautiful views on summer days, so it only makes sense to add gardens and sanctuaries to your Florida bucket list!

Bok Tower Gardens is a contemplative garden and bird sanctuary in Lake Wales, Florida. With 250 acres of vast plants, flowers, trees, and art, this place will leave you breathless.

It features a 205-foot tall Singing Tower with carillon bells, and you can also hike the Pine Ridge Trail or visit the Pinewood Estate if you’re feeling adventurous! Just check out the visitor center when you first stop here!

I first visited this site when I was really young and the memory stayed with me. It is so cool and unique!

This is one of the best things to do in Central Florida .

Where To Stay Near Bok Tower Gardens! Hampton Inn & Suites Lake Wales : Check Rates on Booking.com

The Bok Towers surrounded by trees in front of a pond.

Disney World

Would it really be a Florida bucket list without Disney? Walt Disney World is one of the most famous things about Florida, and I highly recommend checking out these theme parks!

I am an annual pass-holder and have been visiting the Disney parks my whole life!

The four parks– Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and Epcot– feature different rides and themes. With character meet and greets, fantastic food, shows, and rides around every corner, you’re bound to have fun here!

Disney is one of the best things to do in Florida with kids, but even adults can have a magical time! Can you really say you’ve been to Florida without the iconic photo in front of the Magic Kingdom castle ?

This really is a must-do in Florida activity for making family memories.

There is also the surrounding area of Disney you can check out, such as the resorts and Disney Springs! Either way, there is so much to do here. If you want more information about Disney, check out my site: Disney Trippers .

Where To Stay Near Disney World! Buena Vista Suites Orlando : Check Rates on Booking.com

Woman in a red dress stands in front of the castle in Magic Kingdom, one of the best things to do in Florida.

Universal Studios

Often seen as Disney’s “competitor” Universal Studios is another theme park in Orlando that is a cool place to visit in Florida, especially for those who love Marvel and Harry Potter!

Featuring thrill rides, Universal has three parks: Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is split between two parks and you can take the Hogwarts Express between the two!

Volcano Bay is one of the best water parks in Florida perfect for a summer day.

For movie lovers alike, this theme park is one of the best things to do in Florida, as there is so much history and love for classic films throughout each park. And you can enjoy Citywalk before or after your adventure inside the parks!

Where To Stay Near Universal Studios! Universal’s Endless Summer Resort: Check Rates on Booking.com

Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter section of Universal Studios with the dragon breathing fire.

Dome Houses in Florida

Close to Cape Romano Island (which is close to Marco Island ), the Dome Houses are one of the most unique things in Florida to visit!

The Cape Romano Dome Houses are only accessible via water, and their offshore location catches the attention of many. Six dome-shaped homes sit on stilts, surrounded by water.

These homes are abandoned. After being built in the 80s, the firm beach on which the domes were built eventually faded away, and now the domes are surrounded by water, making them the perfect setting for wildlife and tall tales. Make sure to check out the legends when you visit!

If you are looking for things to do in West Florida , make sure to add this to your list!

Where To Stay Near The Dome Houses! Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort and Spa: Check Rates on Booking.com

The dome houses are abandoned and on stilts, surrounded by water.

Kennedy Space Center

The Kennedy Space Center is one of ten National Aeronautics and Space Administration field centers. Located on Merritt Island, this is one of the coolest things you can do in Florida! It is a great day trip from Orlando .

At the space center, you can meet an astronaut, see the Space Shuttle Atlantis, go through the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, and visit the rocket garden.

This center lets visitors get an up-close and hands-on view of humans in space. From exploring NASA’s space shuttle program to discovering more about upcoming space exploration, the Kennedy Space Center is educational and fun.

Growing up, I visited the Kennedy Space Center with my dad. It is such a unique experience!

Book Here: Orlando: Kennedy Space Center Visit with Options

Where To Stay Near The Kennedy Space Center! Beachside Hotel and Suites: Check Rates on Booking.com

NASA sign in front of the Kennedy Space Center.

Saint Petersburg Sunken Gardens

Located in Saint Petersburg , the Sunken Gardens is one of the most unique things to do in Florida, as there aren’t many gardens like it (they are literally sunken! Below sea level!).

The Sunken Gardens are 4-aces of botanical gardens that have existed for more than a century. They are one of the oldest attractions in the U.S., let alone in Florida.

This paradise located in the city is a great living museum that has a vast amount of tropical plants, meandering paths, waterfalls, and more. The gardens also offer tours, special events, and horticultural programs if it interests you!

A romantic stroll here is one of the best things to do in Florida for couples . Take photos and admire the views together.

I love the Sunken Gardens and think it is the best place to visit in the Tampa area. I have brought many people here including my guy cousins who loved it!

Where To Stay In Saint Petersburg! Crystal Bay Historic Hotel: Check Rates on Booking.com

A woman in a dress walks a colorful path through the Sunken Gardens.

Clearwater Beach

Would you really have a Florida bucket list if you didn’t have a beach on it? Known for its stretch of soft, white sand, the calm waters of Clearwater draw tourists and residents year-round. It is one of the best cities in Florida !

With a winding beachfront lined with restaurants, cafes, and Pier 60 (which has nightly festivals that feature street performers and craft vendors), this place is always busy! This is also our favorite place to catch the sunset in Clearwater Beach!

From jet-skiing to parasailing and paddle boarding, many people love to spend hours on this beach and then retreat to the promenade for food, shopping, museums, and more.

This beach is one of the best free things to do in Florida.

Where To Stay In Clearwater! Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach: Check Rates on Booking.com

Clearwater Beach with a pier in the background.

Dry Tortugas National Park

It’s strange to think of national parks in Florida , but Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most fun things to do in Florida!

Located along the Gulf of Mexico, east of Key West, the 7 islands of this park are surrounded by coral reefs ripe for exploration. Many beaches are popular, too!

Famously, Loggerhead Key has a lighthouse and is known for its sea turtles because Loggerhead Reef is nearby. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can check out Windjammer Wreck, which is the remains of an 1875 ship! It’s perfect for scuba and snorkeling in Florida !

Visiting Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the best activities to do in Florida!

Where To Stay In Key West! Truman Hotel: Check Rates on Booking.com

A woman in red swim suit and sun hat stands in the tide in front of the fort on Dry Tortugas, one of the best things to do in Florida.

Castillo De San Marcos in Saint Augustine

Saint Augustine is arguably one of the most historical cities in Florida, so of course, I are adding it to your Florida bucket list!

The Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest masonry fort in the United States. Located on the western shore of Matanzas Bay, it is now a national monument!

With Spanish stones, this monument was built to protect and defend Spain’s claims in the New World. While visiting you can explore rooms that once housed soldiers and prisoners, tour the courtyard and gun deck, and watch weaponry demonstrations while learning about its history!

If you are interested in history, this is one of the best historical sites in Florida !

Where To Stay In Saint Augustine! Bayfront Inn : Check Rates on Booking.com

Sunset over the Castillo De San Marco and water.

Daytona International Speedway

Daytona Beach is known for two things: the beach, and NASCAR! Of course, I had to add this to my list of things to do in Florida!

Daytona International Speedway is a racetrack that opened in 1959, where it has been home to the Daytona 500, which is arguably one of the most prestigious races in NASCAR history.

When you’re not witnessing a famous event, though, you can also participate in speedway tours and enter the world of racing!

A race here is one of the top things to see in Florida!

Where To Stay In Daytona Beach! Daytona Grande Oceanfront Resort: Check Rates on Booking.com

Cars race on the track at the Daytona International Speedway in Florida.

Butterfly World

Located in Coconut Creek, Florida, Butterfly World is one of the most best things to do in Florida because it is the largest butterfly park in the world!

Opening in 1988, this facility houses 20,000 live butterflies across 3 acres. But the best part is that it doesn’t solely feature butterflies: there are also botanical gardens, a working butterfly farm, and a research facility featured here!

Recently the park has expanded to include aviaries for tropical birds and a lorikeet center! The owners here are adamant about supporting the conservation of butterflies!

Where To Stay Near Butterfly World! Residence Inn Fort Lauderdale Coconut Creek : Check Rates on Booking.com

Close up of a butterfly on a pink flower.

Duval Street in Key West

Duval Street is a downtown street in Key West, Florida , that runs from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean. This is one of the coolest things to do in Florida, as it is full of adventure and iconic stops!

With its vibrant, hole-in-the-wall bars, historical haunts, shops, and galleries there is not a dull moment on this street! Exploring here is one of the things to do in Florida at night.

You can embark on bar crawls here, run with the bulls, go on a ghost tour, visit Hemingway’s house (which features 6-toed cats!), and eat famous Key lime pie all while enjoying the sun and nearby Key West beaches !

Book Here: Key West: 2.5-Hour Duval Street Pub Crawl

Where To Stay Near Duval Street! The Casablanca Hotel : Check Rates on Booking.com

A woman in a floral dress sits on the steps of a colorful house on Duval Street in Key West.

Legoland is another theme park in Florida that you can add to your Florida bucket list! This theme park is known for being family-friendly, as it focuses on the construction of Lego toys.

Here at Legoland, everything is designed to be like a Lego! The rides look like blocks and pieces, and the park is filled with displays of the famous bricks.

This is one of the best things to do in Florida for adults and kids alike! Everyone will have great childhood fun.

Better yet? There is an awesome hotel you can stay at to really immerse yourself with the brand! Staying here feels like you have shrunk down and are now a little Lego too! Just don’t step on any!

Where To Stay Near Legoland! LEGOLAND Florida Resort: Check Rates on Booking.com

Entrance to Legoland Florida, an immersive and family friendly theme park.

Naples Botanical Garden

Of course, I am adding more botanical gardens to your best things to do in Florida itinerary! Florida has so many of them, and they’re beautiful– especially the Naples Botanical Garden!

Naples Botanical Garden is a 170-acre paradise and one of the best things to do in Naples .

Stepping in here, you can see plants from all around the world with beautiful horticultural design and attention to sustainability!

Today, the garden welcomes over 220,000 guests per year to experience the education centers, shops, halls, themed gardens, and flora that continue to grow.

The is one of the prettiest places to visit in Florida !

Where To Stay Near Naples Botanical Garden! Inn at Pelican Bay : Check Rates on Booking.com

A path under a flower arch at the Napels Botanical Garden.

The Dali Museum

The Dali Museum is one of the most unique things to do in Florida, and probably because Dali himself was so unique!

This museum houses the largest collection of Salvador Dali’s work outside of Europe. Set on a waterfront setting, the architecture and exhibits of this museum call people to St. Pete for this gorgeous experience.

Make sure to also check out the Avant garden for a sense of tranquility and do not miss out on the building itself– the cafe is also cute, and the gift shop has so many unique souvenirs!

This is a great activity in one of the best beach towns in Florida .

Where To Stay Near The Dali Museum! Hilton St. Petersburg Bayfront : Check Rates on Booking.com

The exterior of the Dali Museum with a surreal bench.

Wynwood Walls

The Wynwood Walls in Miami are some of the best things to do in Florida! This unique outdoor destination features HUGE street murals from artists across the globe.

The walls are now considered a museum as they feature some of the greatest artists that have worked in graffiti and street art. People come from all over to experience this art.

You can take official tours here or just navigate the murals by yourself! You can also stop by the Kitchen and Bar to support locals!

Where To Stay Near Wynwood Walls! Sentral Wynwood: Check Rates on Booking.com

The entrance to Wynwood Walls where there are great artistic murals in Miami.

Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is a 1.5 mullion acre preserve that features wetlands on the southern tip of Florida ! This is one of the must-do Florida activities!

Made up of coastal mangroves, marshes, flat woods, and a variety of animal species, this is a fantastic thing to do in Florida, as you can drive through the Everglades or take a boat out to enjoy the natural beauty.

Don’t forget to book an Everglades airboat tour !

Lots of Florida hiking trails also help you navigate this beautiful park, and if you’re lucky, you can see some endangered Florida animals such as the Florida Panther and West Indian manatee!

It is one of the best places to see alligators in Florida .

This is a great place to stop on your Florida bucket list.

Book Here: Everglades National Park: Airboat Tour and Wildlife Show

Where To Stay Near Everglades National Park! Hampton Inn & Suites Homestead Miami South : Check Rates on Booking.com

Aerial view of Everglades National Park swamps.

Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens is a great addition to your Florida bucket list as it is a perfect combination of a zoo and theme park! This is one of the best things to do in Florida with kids!

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is an African-themed theme park that is over 335 acres and features a variety of animals such as hippos, elephants, otters, and more. You can even see some surgeries take place in the watch center of the animal hospital!

Aside from the animals, there are also shows and SO many thrill rides. Known for its high-speed coasters, you will love the adventure this park brings! It is easily one of the most fun places in Florida!

You will not want to pass up on one of the best things to do in Tampa !

Where To Stay Near Busch Gardens! Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Tampa Busch Gardens Area : Check Rates on Booking.com

Close up of a roller coaster at Busch Gardens, one of the best things to do in Florida.

Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S.A.

I’ve already talked about some things to do in Florida in regard to Key West, but I am adding more to your Florida bucket list because there is so much to do here!

In particular, make sure to check out the Southernmost Point of the Continental United States. This is the lowest latitude in the North American States and is anchored by a concrete buoy.

Eighteen feet above sea level, this is a popular destination and tourist attraction off of Whitehead Street. It is one of the most visited and photographed attractions in Florida!

This is one of the top things to do in Key West !

Where To Stay In Key West! The Capitana Key West : Check Rates on Booking.com

The southernmost point of the US is in Key West!

Anna Maria Island

I am adding another beach to your list of best things to do in Florida! Anna Maria Island is a barrier island located on the Gulf Coast offering many Florida vacation activities.

It is well known for its broad, family-friendly beaches , such as Manatee Beach Park, and its small city is like a resort, lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants on Anna Maria Island .

With a wooden pier and cute markets, lots of tourists love to explore the area that sells food, art, and jewelry in between their time on the sand and in the water!

Where To Stay In Anna Maria Island! Sunrise Garden Resort : Check Rates on Booking.com

Anna Maria Island is known for its wonderful sands and broad beaches.

Venetian Pool

The Venetian Pool is another cool thing to do in Florida. It is a historical swimming pool located in Coral Gables and was completed in 1924!

Created across 4-acres, the pool has gone through several phases over the years, and has become a National Historical Place.

Occupying over 820,000 gallons of fresh water from artesian wells, this is the largest freshwater pool in the United States. It varies in depth (4 feet from 8 feet), features a waterfall, and has a kiddy pool, bridges, grottos, cafes, and sandy areas!

If you are looking for relaxing Florida vacation things to do, this is it!

Where To Stay In Coral Gables! Hotel St. Michel : Check Rates on Booking.com

The Venetian Pool is the largest freshwater pool in America.

Manatee Springs

Manatee Springs State Park is one of the few Florida state parks that have a spring (Manatee Spring) flowing directly into the Suwannee River, one of the best Florida rivers .

This spring features boardwalks beneath cypress forests and in the cooler months, you can spot manatees in some of the clearest water in Florida .

One of the best activities in Florida is kayaking with manatees . Other birds, mammals, and fish are spotted year-round.

From camping to tubing in Florida to walking the 32-mile Nature Coast State Trail, this park is full of adventurous things to do and explore, so therefore it is one of the most fun things to do in Florida!

Overall, this is one of the best state parks in Florida ! If you want to see manatees in Florida , add this to your bucket list.

Where To Stay Near Manatee Springs! Quality Inn near Manatee Springs State Park : Check Rates on Booking.com

Aerial view of Manatee Spring Park, a great place to see manatees in the cooler months.

Weeki Wachee: City of Live Mermaids

The 12,000-acre Weeki-Wachee preserve is one of the most unique things in Florida because they have mermaids! Yes, live mermaids! This is what to see in Florida!

The Weeki Wachee Springs Park is one of the most commonly visited areas in Florida, as the springs feature cool, clear waters, slides, diving platforms, areas to sit and eat, and more.

It is one of the best swimming holes in Florida !

Better yet, though, this city is known for its legend of mermaids: every day there is a live mermaid show, but if you’re not feeling the fictional wildlife, you can go down the springs and onto the river to kayak and see more wildlife.

This is one of the best springs near Tampa for a relaxing day trip from the city.

Where To Stay Near Weeki Wachee! Lydia’s Retreat : Check Rates on Booking.com

View of the blue water of Weeki Wachee Springs, one of the best things to do in Florida.

Cassadaga is one of those things in Florida that is so strange but so wonderful. This small town in Voluisa County, Florida, is known for its psychics and mediums.

Known as the “Psychic Capital of the World,” many travel far and wide just to experience the vibe and spiritualness of this area. The streets and small homes are quaint but provide a specific energy.

Between its medium, psychics, healers, haunted hotels, and healing energy, this city is really a village that feels a world away from everything else.

I recommend stopping by for a tour and a reading!

Where To Stay Near Cassadaga ! The Ann Stevens House : Check Rates on Booking.com

Street of old houses in Cassadaga, a spiritual town known for its healers and energy.

Miami Marine Stadium

Located in Virginia Key, Miami, the Miami Marine Stadium was once one of the best things to do in Florida. Even though it hasn’t been used in years, it is still a unique stop on your Florida bucket list!

Once used to host water sports and famous for its scenic views of Downtown Miami, this stadium is now abandoned. However, it is still worth a stop!

Today the entire concrete stadium still stands tall, slanting down toward the water with a folded plate roof, and every inch of it is covered in graffiti. There are claims for it to be haunted as a speed boat driver was killed on opening day, but you might just have to check it out for yourself when stopping to explore and take photos!

If you are looking for unique things to do in Miami , this is it!

Where To Stay Near Miami Marine Stadium! Novotel Miami Brickell : Check Rates on Booking.com

Aerial view of the Miami Marine Stadium, one of the best things to do in Florida.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Previously known as Villa Vizcaya, the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is the former villa and estate of James Deering and was built in 1916. This is one of the best activities in Florida for both history and architecture lovers.

This National Historic Landmark is an experience and therefore I am adding it to your things to do in Florida itinerary as it is a unique cultural gem and one of the best museums in Florida .

This Gilded Age estate on Biscayne Bay is surrounded by 10 acres of gardens, mangroves, and rocky lands. During your tours here you can do a food lab, discover what is in bloom near the Fountain Garden, and explore the estate’s stunning architecture.

Come walk the grounds here and enjoy one of the most romantic things to do in Florida.

Where To Stay Near Vizcaya Museum and Gardens! Hilton Garden Inn Miami Brickell South : Check Rates on Booking.com

View of Vizcaya across a pond and surrounded by trees.

Florida’s Volkswagen Graveyard

One of the most unique things to do in Florida includes going to Florida’s Volkswagen graveyard. Although this isn’t an expected stop on any Florida bucket list, it is strange and fun!

Referred to as the “Disney World for Volkswagen enthusiasts,” this junkyard features vintage VWs and you can wander through a field of aging VWs, parts, and more.

With over 300,000 cars here, this graveyard is unique, cool for photo ops, and perfect for any car enthusiast!

The graveyard is found near Dade City.

Where To Stay Near The Volkswagen Graveyard! Hampton Inn Dade City – Zephyr Hills : Check Rates on Booking.com

An old Volkswagen Beetle surrounded by decaying leaves in a forest.

Juniper Springs

Juniper Springs is another of the best springs in Florida and is perfect for a day of relaxation.

Found in the Ocala National Forest, this is the place to go for swimming, kayaking, and hiking. It is also a great place for wildlife viewing, including otters, American eels, and even albino gray squirrels.

The beautiful blue water is super clear making it ideal for snorkeling. With a year-round temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit, it is refreshing in the heat of a Florida summer.

You can also camp at this spring . The dense canopy provides plenty of shade, picnic tables, and restrooms. This is considered one of the best places for camping in Florida .

Where To Stay Near Juniper Springs!

Big River Marina & Lodge: Check Rates on Booking.com

A woman in a red dress and sun hat sits on a wooden fence overlooking the blue water of Juniper Springs in Florida.

Bahia Honda State Park

As one of the best state parks in the Florida Keys , Bahia Honda State Park is truly a slice of paradise!

There are three beaches in Bahia Honda , both with beautiful, clear water. This is one of the best places in Florida to scuba dive .

You can also have fun swimming, kayaking , playing in the best white sand of Florida , or relaxing in the shade of a swaying palm tree. Make sure to walk the trail up to the Old Bahia Honda Bridge too so you can find amazing views of the beaches and ocean.

If you chose to camp in the Keys , you will be rewarded with gorgeous stars overhead. Since this Florida Keys island is so remote, the sky is dark, making it one of the best places for stargazing in Florida . There are even stargazing programs led here so you can learn more about the night sky.

Make sure to check out some of my other favorite things to do in the Lower Keys in addition to Bahia Honda!

Where To Stay Near Bahia Honda!

Blackfin Resort and Marina: Check Rates on Booking.com

High angle view looking down at the beach in Bahia Honda State Park in Florida.

Crab Island

You’ll find Crab Island off the shore of Destin on the panhandle. This huge sandbar is a great place to anchor your boat and enjoy some classic Florida vibes.

The calm water makes it perfect for swimming, and you can even order some food at one of the floating restaurants. Grab a drink and float on a raft as you soak up the sun.

You can also play water volleyball, jump on water trampolines, or play on water slides. Ley your inner child out! This is a family-friendly attraction too, so bring the kids!

To get here, you can charter a boat, ride the Crab Island Shuttle Boat, or kayak. This is easily one of the best things to do in Destin .

Where To Stay in Destin!

Hampton Inn & Suites Destin: Check Rates on Booking.com

Aerial view of boats dotting the sand bar called Crab Island, one of the best things to do in Florida.

Ocala National Forest

One of the best things to do in Ocala is visiting the national forest. At 383,000 acres, this is the largest sand pine scrub forest in the country.

There is so much to see and do in Ocala National Forest , making it one of the cool places to go in Florida for nature. You’ll enjoy springs, rivers, lakes, and amazing hiking trails.

This forest is also a great place to spot wildlife such as black bears, alligators, deer, and tortoises. Make sure to bring your camera for amazing nature shots!

After hiking or biking, cool off by swimming in one of the beautiful springs in Ocala .

Where To Stay in Ocala! Equus Inn : Check Rates on Booking.com

Wooden walkway going through a tropical forest.

Silver Springs State Park

Silver Springs State Park is on the edge of Ocala National Park so you can easily visit both of these fun places in Florida on the same day.

Found on the Silver River, this park has a history dating back to the 1870s. Like many tourists before you, come and enjoy the clear water and scenic nature.

One of the top things to do here is taking a glass-bottom boat tour. You will love the unobstructed view of aquatic life.

Other Silver Springs activities include kayaking, canoeing, hiking, camping, and spotting wild monkeys. Keep in mind, though, that swimming is not allowed.

Where To Stay Near Silver Springs State Park! Holiday Inn Express Silver Springs: Check Rates on Booking.com

Looking down on  couple canoeing in Silver Springs State Park.

Looking for small towns to explore near Orlando? You will love all the fun things to do in Mount Dora .

Set on Lake Dora, this is a quaint town full of shops, restaurants, museums, and historic buildings. The town also hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year.

You will have a great time relaxing at the lake or enjoying views from the water as you kayak. Keep an eye out for bald eagles, turtles, and alligators. Fishing is also popular.

Whether you are golfing, shopping, or taking a seaplane tour, you will have a memorable time in Mount Dora!

Where To Stay in Mount Dora! Hampton Inn Mount Dora : Check Rates on Booking.com

Woman in a dress stands in front of a restaurant in Mount Dora, FL.

What is the Most Visited Destination in Florida?

Orlando is one of the top vacation destinations not only in Florida but in the whole country! People from all over the world travel here to enjoy the best things to do in Orlando .

This Florida city is home to top theme parks such as Disney World, Universal Studios, and Legoland. These are some of the most fun things to do in Orlando with kids !

Even if theme parks are not your scene, there are great museums, world-class dining, rooftop bars, relaxing spas, sporting events, and more.

Because Orlando is centrally located, nature is not far away too. There are many nearby springs, rivers, and hikes.

Orlando is popular because of of all the Florida must-see attractions!

Aerial view of the Orlando skyline at dusk.

What is the Least Touristy Part of Florida?

The Sunshine State might be a tourist hot spot, but there are plenty of hidden gems in Florida where you can avoid the crowds.

Head away from the major cities and enjoy quiet time in some of the cute small towns in Florida .

North Florida is usually less touristy as well, but still with lots to do. Check out the best things to do in Gainesville or take a trip to the pretty Amelia Island .

Overall, Florida is a big state with many undeveloped areas where you can stay away from the main crowds.

Underwater photo of a Hawkbill sea turtle swimming in a reef.

And there you have it: a Florida bucket list that is full of stops that are perfect for any tourist or resident alike.

From unique places to highly anticipated beaches or theme parks and all the natural beauty in between, Florida is not a dull state.

You can spend forever exploring all Florida has to offer, but these 36 stops are where I recommend starting!

And if you’re worried about what to pack on these adventures, check out my Florida packing list , or even my Florida road trip itinerary to help with this bucket list!

Go on and explore the Sunshine State, I promise you won’t be disappointed with the best things to do in FL!

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seafood plated on clams at one of the best venice FL restaurants. the clams are on a white plate

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13 Best Places to Visit in Florida on Your Next Trip

The sunshine state has plenty to offer in addition to sand and surf..

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Propeller plane by the shoreline of a beach

The Florida Keys are one of many places worth checking out in the Sunshine State.

Photo by Rose Marie Cromwell

Working in Florida’s restaurants for more than 15 years (and at one point owning one myself), I’ve had a front seat view to everything from supper clubs seeded by farm shares to public houses sourcing from local makers. The burgeoning food scene is reflective of a state that’s equally diverse: Mermaids ( modern ones on Scuba ) and manatees swim the waters in Central Florida, the “nation’s oldest city” offers a look into the history of the northeast region, and fishing villages lost in time can be found along the Northwest Panhandle.

From the Sunshine State’s 1,350 miles of coastline to the vibrant art scenes of its cities, here are the 13 best places to visit in Florida.

Bright yellow wall with pastel-colored patterns on top.

Some of Miami’s most interesting areas are in the Art Deco Historic District.

Photo courtesy of GMCVB

  • Location: South Florida
  • Come for: inclusive initiatives and public art

South Beach holds the crown for exciting nightlife, but don’t count out the fine dining scene— Michelin-starred restaurants dot Miami ’s art deco landscape. With Cuba only 90 miles away, Calle Ocho in the heart of “Little Havana” serves up mouthwatering croquetas and salsa music in the city where bars close at 5 a.m. Public installations abound in once blighted neighborhoods, transformed in 2013 into hubs of local art and design like the Wynwood and Design District.

Exploring Miami’s glitzy bars, iconic boardwalk, and world-class beach is easy thanks to its inclusivity efforts. Accessible mats are available at more than 20 locations along Ocean Drive, and beach wheelchairs with big, nubby tires can be checked out at a number of locations along the route year-round.

Where to stay

  • Book now: The Betsy

Located in the heart of South Beach, this 1940s art deco property exudes elegance throughout its 130 rooms and suites, two pools, 25,000 square feet of public space, and a library (in case you forgot your book). The Betsy also plays host to a curated selection of public art during Miami’s Art Basel .

Key lime pie vendors, street carts, and quirky boutiques line Duval Street, the main thoroughfare in Key West.

Key lime pie vendors, street carts, and quirky boutiques line Duval Street, the main thoroughfare in Key West.

Photo by xbrchx/Shutterstock

2. Key West

  • Location: Florida Keys
  • Come for: six-toed cats and laid-back island lifestyle

Known as the place to gather for sunsets, Key West has shipwreck and maritime museums worth checking out (in addition to mouthwatering conch fritters). Mallory Square’s cobblestones fill with street performers doing magic, telling fortunes, and busking as the sun descends over the water. Tucked behind the main street, Hemingway’s six-toed cats rule his legendary house, and local musicians gather at hidden venues like General Horseplay to jam.

Just over the Seven-Mile Bridge from Marathon, Key West’s mangroves hold secret paths for kayakers, and ghostly shipwrecks rest 145 feet below the surface (try diving with Captain’s Corner ). After a day of snorkeling with the fish, order a Rum Runner cocktail and toast another day in paradise.

  • Book now: Southernmost Beach Resort

With a prime location at the end of Duval Street and a stone’s throw from the Southernmost Point, this boutique resort features three pools and the best sunset view around. The rooms feature rattan furniture, wide-planked driftwood floors, and roomy balconies to make a cozy retreat.

Golf course neighborhood in the daytime

With more than 80 championship courses designed by legends like Arnold Palmer (yes, the person associated with the famous drink), there’s plenty of fairway to get in the swing.

Photo by Felix Mizioznikov/Shutterstock

  • Location: Southwest Florida
  • Come for: world-class golf courses and 100+ art galleries and museums

With over 100 galleries and museums featuring everything from Seminole and Calusa history to automobiles, Naples has plenty for art enthusiasts. Don’t miss a show at the performance venue Artis-Naples , affectionately known as the Phil by locals.

Shelling is spectacular along Naples’s pearly white coast, but for some true Florida wildlife, visit the Conservancy of Southwest Florida , a nature center with a wildlife hospital that treats injured and orphaned native animals.

  • Book now: Inn on Fifth

Located steps from Fifth Avenue’s palm-fringed streets and high-end boutiques, the ritzy Inn on Fifth offers lavish Club Level Suites, two restaurants, a full-service spa, and a rooftop pool and bar where you can take in Naples Bay.

Colorful buildings line a street in the daytime.

If Palm Beach’s elegant buildings don’t capture you, hit Worth Avenue—shopping here is akin to an Olympic sport.

Photo by Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

4. Palm Beach

  • Location: Southeastern Florida
  • Come for: beautiful architecture and celebrity spotting

Movie stars, finance tycoons, and even royalty have graced the barrier island located on the southeastern side of the state. Chocked full of Mediterranean revival and Venetian-inspired architecture, Palm Beach captures a Gilded Age feel in historic landmarks like the Flagler Museum .

For innovative programming and community engagement opportunities like opera workshops open to the public, visit the Society of the Four Arts along the Intracoastal Waterway. Its 10-acre campus includes performance hall, art gallery, education center, libraries, and sculpture gardens.

  • Book now: The Colony

This pink-hued charmer has offered chic accommodations for guests like Judy Garland and John Lennon since 1947. Only feet from the sand, the vintage Floridian decor coupled with amenities like beach cruisers, beach butlers, golf, tennis, boating, babysitting services, and pet services make this a getaway the place to be seen.

Wooded bridge leading to a bridge in the daytime.

When snorkeling at St. Pete Beach, be on the lookout for octopuses, bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles, crabs, shrimp, and snapper.

Photo by mariakray/Shutterstock

5. St. Petersburg

  • Location: Pinellas Peninsula on Tampa Bay
  • Come for: thriving arts community and international food scene

The city’s heart has a network of neighborhoods with eye-catching murals and walkable streets. Some of the best opportunities to see art are at the Dalí Museum , home to more than 2,400 pieces by surrealist artist Salvador Dalí, the Museum of Fine Arts ’s Monet collection, and the Morean Arts Center , which houses a Chihuly Collection of 18 glass sculptures.

St. Petersburg city is also a short bridge ride away from St. Pete Beach, a barrier island that is great for a relaxing day on the sand or a day of snorkeling (check out Island Ferry Eco Tours ).

  • Book now: The Don CeSar

The name of this 1928-opened hotel comes from the William Vincent Wallace opera Maritana, and remnants of the musical masterpiece can be found throughout the grand halls and rooms of the Don CeSar. Elegant dining and imbibing options reside on-site and a full-service spa offers relaxation to weary travelers.

Outdoor stairs leading to a sign in the daytime.

Digging into the Crystal River Archeological State Park is one of the city’s outdoor adventures.

Photo by Sunshower Shots/Shutterstock

6. Crystal River

  • Location: Western Central Florida
  • Come for: manatees and mermaids

Sure, Florida beaches are beautiful, but locals know the state’s magic lies in the more than 1,000 natural springs found around the state—and many can be found in Crystal River. The city hosts a tapestry of state parks, and national wildlife refuges that make excellent spots for bird watching.

For more nature, Crystal River is a short drive to Weeki Wachee State Park , an attraction that’s home to the state’s deepest freshwater cave system. The live mermaid shows are the main draw—they perform a version of Hans Christian Andersen’s Little Mermaid submerged in the 400-foot amphitheater.

  • Book now: Plantation on Crystal River

This lodge lies surrounded by the natural springs of King’s Bay and more than 25,000 acres of lakes and rivers, wildlife refuges, and state parks. The nature lover’s sanctuary has a full-service marina, 18-hole golf course, and restaurants offering “cook your catch” options.

People walking along a brick-lined path surrounded by shops in the daytime.

The Florida city of Seaside is a Highway 30A stop that was featured on The Truman Show .

Photo by Kristi Blokhin/Shutterstock

7. Highway 30A

  • Location: Northwestern Coast
  • Come for: rare coastal dune lakes and underwater museums

This brief 24-mile stretch of scenic byway hugging the Gulf Coast hides a haven of singing bartenders and eclectic festivals like Crafted and Digital Graffiti . One stop worth taking on a 30A roadtrip is the Underwater Art Museum in Grayton Beach—the museum offers a one-of-a-kind dive experience where those willing to brave the depths can swim among sculptures that are chosen and sunk each year.

Another noteworthy feature of 30A’s sliver of the Emerald Coast: Here you can see coastal dune lakes (rare ecological wonders found only in a few spots around the world).

  • Book now: Hibiscus Coffee & Guest House

This old Florida rooming house in Grayton Beach feels like a step back in time. The 13 rooms each feature their vintage Floridian personality with framed old maps and model ships transformed into lamps. The stay is wheelchair accessible and includes breakfast. Don’t miss yoga or open-mic storyteller nights in its “Backyard of Love.”

Bird's eye view of a seaside town in the daytime.

Apalachicola’s historic buildings house buzzy breweries and restaurants dedicated to Florida seafood.

Photo by Jacob Boomsma/Shutterstock

8. Apalachicola

  • Come for: oysters and old fishing village vibes

Swathes of untouched coastline and shacks serving addictive smoked fish dip can be found along Franklin County. One of its cities, Apalachicola, is a working fishing village where you can glimpse fishermen and oyster farmers on the docks.

The welcoming port town located at the mouth of the Apalachicola River has been recognized as a “ distinctive destination ” by the National Trust for Historic Preservation because of its character and dedication to historic preservation, among other reasons.

  • Book now: The Gibson Inn

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this 1907 landmark turned modern boutique hotel features elegant wraparound porches and chic guest rooms.

People on a swan-shaped boat in a lake with skyscrapers in the background

Lake Eola, in the heart of downtown, is known for its photogenic swans and tiered fountain.

Photo by Derek Oladokun II

  • Location: Central Florida
  • Come for: theme parks and huge network of lakes

Can you talk about Florida without mentioning Disney ? The House of Mouse has been an Orlando destination since 1971. Days can be spent riding the barrels in Frontier Land at Walt Disney World , but there’s also wizarding with Harry Potter at Universal Studios and communing with orcas at Seaworld —the theme park game is strong in this city.

Beyond the glitzy entertainment at the theme parks, Orlando has more than 100 lakes—check out Lake Apopka, which covers 30,000 acres, for a peaceful respite.

  • Book now: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Inspired by a traditional African kraal, the lodge exudes safari with its panoramic views of four lush savannas populated with over 30 species of African wildlife and African art at every turn. Plus, you never have to get in your car; complimentary buses and shuttles will whisk you around the park.

Horse-drawn carriage on a street near buildings

The blacksmith shops and stately forts of St. Augustine whisper history.

Photo by Glenn Hastings/Stacey Sather

10. St. Augustine

  • Location: Northeast Atlantic Coast
  • Come for: historic sites and ghost tours

Known as the “nation’s oldest city,” with roots back to 1565 when it was settled by Europeans, St. Augustine offers plenty of tours that take you back in time: Hop on an Old Town Trolley Tour to hit more than 100 points of interest, including Ponce de León’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park where you can take a sip of the legendary immortality-imbuing water.

Located along the northeast coast, St. Augustine has a pedestrian-only thoroughfare and wonders like the Castillo de San Marcos , a Spanish stone fortress dating back to the 1600s, designated a national monument. Get lost on St. George Street—antiques and funky boutiques await.

  • Book now: The Collector Luxury Inn and Gardens

Situated downtown, this luxury inn features nine historic buildings and 30 guest rooms that incorporate the history and architecture of the property’s 18th-century construction. The courtyard, bricked paths lined with statues, and amphitheater create a multisensory retreat steps from the bustle of the city’s attractions.

Two people walking with a horse on the beach at sunset.

Amelia Island State Park plays host to 200 acres of beaches, salt marshes, and coastal maritime forests.

Photo by Peter W. Cross and Patrick Farrell.

11. Amelia Island

  • Location: Barrier island on Northern Atlantic coast
  • Come for: uncrowded beaches and horseback riding on the sand

With 13 miles of unspoiled beaches and Spanish-moss-draped oak trees, this barrier island feels more like a lost-in-time Southern retreat than its palm-lined brethren further south. The quartz-filled sand beaches are framed by 40-feet-tall sand dunes— horseback riding along the dunes offers another vantage point of the natural paradise.

Beyond the beaches and coastal recreation, Amelia Island is also home to the oldest lighthouse in Florida (first lit by whale oil in 1838) and Florida’s oldest bar, the Palace Saloon .

  • Book now: The Amelia Schoolhouse Inn

Located right in downtown Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island, the Amelia Schoolhouse Inn served as a school from 1886 until the late 20th century. The boutique hotel has kept historical features like original windows and heart pine floors, but coupled with modern amenities like on-site mini golf and an upscale bar, the Principal’s Office.

Patrons dine al fresco next to Airstream food trucks under palm trees in downtown Pensacola

Pensacola’s downtown is home to fermentation bars, buzzy restaurants, and community gathering spaces.

Photo by Leigh Trail/Shutterstock

12. Pensacola

  • Location: Northwest Florida
  • Come for: historic downtown and exceptional scuba diving

Pensacola’s Historic Downtown packs in a bevy of museums and places dedicated to art. Opened in 1925, you can catch a show at the Saenger Theatre or pop into Electric Serenade for a private karaoke party. If you’re looking for adventure, book a dive trip to the USS Oriskany (a sunken aircraft carrier that’s now the largest artificial reef in the world).

Over the bridge, the federally protected Gulf Islands National Seashore is home to osprey and great blue herons, dolphins, sea turtles, and stingrays. Don’t miss the Futuro House (otherwise known as the “UFO House”), another iconic Florida roadside attraction that’s been around since the 1960s.

  • Book now: Lily Hall

Walking distance to Pensacola’s vibrant downtown, this boutique hotel nods to the city’s history and artists with its record players and custom vinyl collections in every room. In addition, the stay has a wood-fire restaurant and secret speakeasy in the basement where Sunday school classes were once held.

Blue skies are reflected in the still waters of the everglades while tourists take airboat rides to visit alligators in the wild.

Coined the “River of Grass” by conservationist and author Marjory Stoneman Douglas, the 1.5 million acres of wetlands houses species like American crocodiles.

Photo by allouphoto/Shutterstock

13. Everglades National Park

  • Location: Southern tip of Florida mainland
  • Come for: spotting endangered species and outdoor recreation

It’s hard to believe Miami’s glittering boundaries are an hour from the coastal mangroves and murky swamps of Everglades National Park . Trails for biking, hiking, and bird-watching snake through the Everglades, but going by water is the best way to experience this park, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and International Biosphere Reserve. Take a guided airboat with Gator Park or kayak tour to learn more about the delicate ecosystems and abundant wildlife in the park.

  • Book now: Flamingo Campgrounds

Camping (or glamping) immerses you in the serenity of this wild landscape. Located at the Homestead park entrance, you can access this unplugged escape with 274 tent sites, 65 RV sites, and glamping Eco-Tents. Houseboat rentals are also available from Flamingo Marina, where up to six guests can sleep on Whitewater Bay surrounded by croaking frogs and singing cicadas.

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Florida Vacationers

30 Best Florida Vacation Spots You Must Visit!

By: Author Florida Vacationers

Posted on Published: February 25, 2022  - Last updated: October 23, 2023

Categories Florida Vacation Ideas

Home » Florida Vacation Ideas » 30 Best Florida Vacation Spots You Must Visit!

30 Best Florida Vacation Spots You Must Visit!

Looking for the Best Florida Vacation Spots in 2023? You have come to the right place.

Florida has a lot of exciting places to visit. From sleepy coastal towns to world class theme parks, you can just about find it all. We have rounded up the 30 best places to visit in Florida so you can start planning your next trip.

We have included everything from the best beach towns in Florida, to the best places to go for cool cities and nature and springs.

30 Florida Vacation Spots – Best Places to Visit in 2023

About an hour’s drive south of Tampa , you will find the picturesque town of Sarasota , Florida. We love the beaches, shopping, and restaurants here, and you will find plenty of cultural activities as well. It is without doubt one of the best places to visit in Florida.

Sarasota is home to the Ringling Museum of Art because the Ringling Brothers had a winter home here. Sarasota’s beaches have beautiful sand and shallow, emerald green waters.

It is on the Gulf of Mexico, so you are bound to get lots of sun year round. Apart from beaches, we love the Big Cat Habitat Sanctuary, the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, and the Saturday Farmers Market.

sarasota-beaches-Lido-Key-Beach-Florida Vacation Spots

St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg, also known as the Sunshine City, is a part of Tampa Bay and definitely one of the best Florida vacation spots if you love culture in a city. You can find the world famous Dalí Museum here, as well as the Florida Orchestra.

We love eating and drinking our way through St. Petersburg, as you can find some of the most fresh seafood in all of Florida right here.

You can connect with wildlife at the Sunken Gardens or just stroll down downtown St. Petersburg to get a feel of local life here. The Sunken Gardens is home to over 50,000 different kinds of plants, making it a really neat family friendly attraction and a hidden gem in Florida .

The-Dali-Museum-Florida Vacation Spots

We could not forget Key West when compiling a list of our favorite places to visit in Florida. The southernmost point of the Continental U.S. has incredible beaches , incredible culture, and festivals throughout the year to keep you entertained.

Key West is only 90 miles north of Cuba, so it feels as though you are in a different country when you are walking around.

We recommend stopping by the Ernest Hemingway House in between beach visits. You can also take a ferry to the Dry Tortugas National Park , which is a fun day trip filled with lots of history.

Mile-0-free-things-to-do-in-key-west

Another one of the crown jewels of the Gulf Coast is Naples , Florida. Many say the beaches in Naples have sand that looks like sugar. Naples is a small, upscale town with a quiet elegance.

The town has, on average, 280 days of sunshine annually. This makes it not only a great beach destination, but a great spot for those who love to golf or participate in water sports.

We love grabbing a bite to eat at the Celebration Food Truck Park, made perfect with board games, proximity to the beach, and water views. We also recommend watching the sunset on the Naples Pier. We promise it will be unforgettable.

naples-beaches-Lowdermilk-Park Florida Vacation Spots

Miami Beach

Miami Beach is an island connected to mainland Miami and home to gorgeous beaches and incredible dining and nightlife.

Southern Miami Beach, also known as South Beach, is frequented by many celebrities and features brightly colored buildings and vibrant experiences. You can find all kinds of art galleries, designer shopping, world class dining, and fascinating museums.

We recommend checking out the Art Deco Historic District, the Boardwalk, and strolling down Lincoln Road and Ocean Drive. Mainland Miami also has plenty to offer, from Wynwood Walls to Downtown. You can find some of the best Cuban food outside of Cuba here in Miami and Miami Beach, so be sure to try out as many restaurants as you can.

If you feel like a roadie from Miami, one of the best trips to take is the drive from Miami to Key West .

miami-to-key-west-drive-Florida Vacation Spots

Sanibel Island

A small island near Fort Myers, Florida, Sanibel Island is home to the Sanibel lighthouse and a large National Wildlife Preserve. It is thought to be one of the best places for shelling in Florida as it has seriously amazing beaches .

The Preserve has over 230 different species of birds and plenty of hiking and trails for a day of active family fun. We recommend stopping by the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum, which has over 30 exhibits on shells, including some of the largest and most rare in the entire world.

There are also aquarium exhibits with live mollusks. After the Shell Museum, head over to the Historical Village with 10 buildings, some of which date back to 1896. This village and museum will teach you all about the history of Sanibel Island, making it a must see.

sanibel-beaches Best Places to Visit in Florida

Fort Lauderdale

Only a 40 minute drive north of Miami is Fort Lauderdale , which is best known for its beaches and canals. Also known as the Venice of America, you can take a gondola ride throughout the canals for a unique experience.

Downtown Fort Lauderdale is a great place to walk through, shop, and grab some coffee or a bite to eat. The River Arts and Entertainment District has galleries, museums, and performance centers if you’d like to grab a show while you are in town.

One of our favorite things to see in Fort Lauderdale is the 60 acre botanical and flamingo gardens. You can find everything from alligators to bobcats and exotic plants. Spend a day strolling through the gardens and learning more about Florida’s rich wildlife.

things to do in fort lauderdale Fort Lauderdale Beach

Fort Lauderdale Beach/ Flickr

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is located near Orlando and is south of Cape Canaveral. Its proximity to Cape Canaveral is ideal for those who want to venture to the Kennedy Space Station while getting beach time.

Cocoa Beach also has some relatively calm waters that still have waves, which makes it a great place to learn how to surf.

The Cocoa Beach Pier and Boardwalk is over 800 feet long and is filled with restaurants and shops. You can find all sorts of watersports here: kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing, and more.

cocoa-beach-fl

Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach has great watersports along a beautiful, white sandy beach. You can find jet skiing, paddleboarding, and parasailing.

The waters here are famously calm, which makes watersports even more fun. There is a beachfront promenade that is perfect for those that want to ride their bike or skate and soak in the fresh air.

You can find some great seafood restaurants and cafes, as well as a sunset festival that has performances and local vendors. There is also a Marine Aquarium if you want to learn about dolphins and other marine life. We highly recommend relaxing on the beach and enjoying the waters of the Gulf Coast.

Clearwater Beach - Best Places to Visit in Florida

Clearwater Beach/ Flickr

St. Augustine

St. Augustine is known for being the oldest city in the United States, originally discovered by the Spanish and later developed into a colony.

We recommend visiting the Anastasia State Park and the Castillo de San Marcos. This 17th century fortress transports you back in time and helps you understand the rich history of St. Augustine. There are all sorts of museums here in St. Augustine, from Pirate and Treasure to American Gilded Age Antiques.

You can find more than 42 miles of sandy beaches along this part of the Atlantic Ocean. Take a guided tour of the Colonial Quarter to feel like you’ve stepped into the Spanish Settlement.

augustine-fl

Marco Island

Close to Naples, Marco Island is a barrier island famous for its beaches and Tigertail Beach Park. Marco Island is said to have some of the best beaches in the entire world, great accommodation and the water looks exactly like the Caribbean.

You can find lots of kayaking and paddleboarding here, as well as some great breweries and restaurants. If you like to fish, Marco Island is your place.

You can find inshore, offshore, and deep water fishing on the island and grab everything from sea trout to king mackerel. The boardwalk at the Nature Center has seven habitats of the local ecosystem on display.

marco-island-beaches-Tigertail-Beach

One of our favorite cities in the Florida panhandle, Destin is known for its beaches and golf courses. We love the many dolphin watching opportunities and dolphin tours.

Check out the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park if you and your family want the chance to interact with aquatic mammals. You can interact with and learn about dolphins, stingrays, turtles, and alligators. The Emerald Waters of Destin make it a popular vacation spot for many around the country.

If the kids love adventure, head over to Big Kahuna’s Water Park. The Destin Harbor Boardwalk is home to plenty of restaurants, shops, parasailing and boating opportunities, and even a Seafood Festival.

Henderson Beach State Park

Panama City Beach

Panama City Beach is probably best known for being one of the top spring break destinations in the country. However, there are still plenty of family friendly activities to keep everyone entertained.

Pier Park is an outdoor mall with over 120 stores, so be sure to stop by if you want to do some shopping while on your next vacation.

We love Shipwreck Island for the kids if you want to add a waterpark to your beach trip. You can also visit Ripley’s Believe it or Not or WonderWorks for a fun and silly museum experience.

panama-city-beach-fl

Key Largo is in the upper Florida Keys, only a short drive from Miami. You can find plenty of wildlife, great beaches , sporting and outdoor activities here.

Check out the Coral Reef State Park or the nearby Everglades National Park to connect with nature. Then, go paddleboarding, snorkeling, or fishing for a relaxing and active vacation.

We love glass-bottom boating for a unique experience in the Keys. Key Largo has some of the best sunsets we have ever seen, so grab a drink at one of the many incredible Key Largo restaurants and watch the sun go down over paradise.

key largo beaches

Islamorada is home to six of the Florida Keys between Key Largo and Key West. Islamorada is famous for its coral reefs, beaches , snorkeling, and diving. The calm, emerald green waters provide a special escape between the hustle and bustle of Miami and Key West.

There are plenty of trails, shipwrecks, and mangroves here. We recommend finding a dolphin show or a restaurant with live music.

If you want to learn more about the history of the Florida Keys, go to the History and Discovery Center. The Theater of the Sea has dolphin and sea lion shows daily.

Islamorada-beaches

Everglades National Park

This 1.5 million acre wetland preserve is located south of Miami. These coastal mangroves, marshes, and flatwoods are home to a diverse and thriving ecosystem filled with hundreds of animal species. You can find the leatherback turtle, Florida panther, and West Indian Manatee along with of course the alligator.

This park is the largest subtropical wilderness in the entire country. The habitat is crucial for many endangered species. It is also the third largest park in the continental United States.

You can spend the day kayaking, hiking , fishing, bird watching, slough slogging, and boating. We would highly recommend taking an Everglades airboat tour while you are there. You are sure to see something new every time you visit the park.

best-everglades-airboat-tours

You can fill your time in Fort Myers with a lot of different excursions. Fort Myers is home to everything from world class museums to MLB Spring Training. If you love the outdoors as much as we do, you’re in luck. Spend a day with your partner at Lovers Key State Park.

If you are traveling solo or in a group, you can hop over to Captiva Island, home to two and a half miles of gorgeous beaches.

There are also plenty of wildlife refuges within a short drive, which are worth checking out. You can also visit the Edison and Ford Winter Estates to learn more about important American figures. The River District is home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and cultural centers that make Fort Myers what it is.

Fort Myers

Amelia Island

Amelia Island, also known as the Isle of Eight Flags, is a great holiday destination for those wanting to stay on the Atlantic side of Florida.

Walk around downtown Fernandina Beach to see some historic buildings, eat some delicious food, and find some fun cocktails. The longest operating saloon in all of Florida is here on Amelia Island, named Palace Saloon.

There are a variety of festivals throughout the year that are worth visiting for, including Blues Festival, Jazz Festival, and Cookie Tour.

Fort Clinch State Park

Fort Clinch State Park in Amelia Island

If you are visiting Boca Raton, you have to check out the Red Reef Park to visit the butterfly garden and sea turtle sanctuary.

While at the park, head to the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center to see iguanas, turtles, and sharks. If you need somewhere to let the kids run around and play, go to the Sugar Sand Park, where you will find a playground, carousel, and plenty of walking trails.

You can find everything from spas to pamper yourself to the Museum of Art to experience some great American and European culture in Boca Raton. If you want to shop, head to Mizner Park, which has a wide variety of stores and restaurants for any budget.

gumbo limbo nature center

gumbo limbo nature center

If you are visiting Orlando, you have to experience Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. These world famous theme parks provide days and days of entertainment for people of all ages. If you have young children, check out Cinderella’s Castle.

If you are an adult couple, you can drink your way through the world in Epcot. There really is something for everyone at the parks, and we think it makes Orlando worth visiting all by itself. However, you can find plenty more to do in Orlando outside of the parks, from Seaworld to other museums and incredible dining after dark in Orlando including the awesome sushi restaurants !

Orlando is one of our favorite cities to visit in Florida because of the wide variety of attractions and opportunities for all interests.

orlando-at-night

Jacksonville

Jacksonville is the most populous city in all of Florida, so you are sure to find lots of things to keep you entertained during your vacation.

The Jacksonville Zoo has 2,400 animals and 1,000 kinds of plants. If you want a tiger specific experience, go to the Catty Shack Ranch to support an organization that wants to rescue tigers from inhumane activity.

The Museum of Science and History (MOSH) is the largest single-lens planetarium in the country. If you are in town on a Saturday, go to the Riverside Arts Market to support local vendors with live music and food trucks.

Jacksonville-Beach

Tampa is a large city on the Gulf Coast side of Florida, famous for its beaches and cultural activities. If you are a thrill seeker, you will love Busch Gardens with plenty of rides and animal viewing areas so keep the whole family entertained. Just sitting in the Tampa Theater is a treat, but it is even better when you see a show.

For a unique experience, visit the Tampa Bay Downs, which is one of the only places for horse racing in this area. If you feel like a unique weekend activity there are some great springs near Tampa which are well worth checking out.

free-things-to-do-in-tampa

Biscayne National Park

Biscayne National Park has coral reefs, a mangrove forest, and islands in the Florida Keys. Dolphins, turtles, pelicans, and many other mammals call Biscayne National Park and Lagoon home.

You can only get to the park by boat, but we highly recommend the journey. You can find a lot of dive sites filled with shipwrecks and reefs that are worth exploring. You can also find a lighthouse and museum teaching about the local ecosystem.

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Dry Tortugas National Park

One of the best places to go in Florida is certainly Dry Tortugas National Park, located about 70 miles outside of Key West, and only reachable by boat. You can find a 19th century fort and snorkeling here at the park, along with a variety of different birds.

The boat ride to the park is about two hours, so plan on spending the day here exploring the coral reefs and taking in the great views.

Dry-Tortugas-National-Park

Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach is probably most famous for the annual Daytona 500 NASCAR race, but is also home to some great beaches and culture.

In the summer, head over to the Daytona Beach Bandshell for free concerts. Near the beach you can also find a waterpark with go karts, laser tag, and waterslides. The nearby town of New Smyrna Beach is also worth checking out if you have the time.

Daytona Beach Shores

Daytona Beach Shores/ Flickr

Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral is known for the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The Cape was actually originally called Cape Kennedy, but was renamed to Cape Canaveral in 1973.

Only a short drive from Orlando, you can learn about all things NASA and even watch a rocket launch, if you’re lucky.

kennedy space center

Ocala National Forest – one of the best Florida Vacation Spots for nature lovers

North of Orlando is Ocala National Forest, which is known for its natural springs , natural pools, and lakes. It is about 673 square miles with a variety of trails.

You can find all sorts of sporting activities, from horseback riding to swimming or mountain biking. There are no entrance fees, which makes it a great free activity to connect with nature. Note there is a small fee to enter into the stunning natural springs in the forest which are well worth doing. Some of the best springs to visit in the Ocala Forest include Alexander Springs and Silver Springs State Park .

One of the most unique places to visit in Florida.

silver-springs-state-park

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is the capital of Florida and hosts many fun activities. We recommend stopping by the Bradley’s Country Store, which has been owned and operated by the same family since 1927.

The Cascades Park is in downtown Tallahassee and is fun day and night. During the day you can wander through the trails, but at night, catch a performance by the Southern Shakespeare Company.

Museum of Florida History

Museum of Florida History/ Flickr

Gainesville

Home to the University of Florida, Gainesville is a college town with lots to do. We recommend the Florida Museum of Natural History and the Butterfly Rainforest.

If you are visiting during football season, you cannot miss a game at UF. Check out the numerous parks, museums, and lakes throughout the city for free family fun. There are also lots of great restaurants in Gainesville as it is a bit of a foodies paradise as well as great breakfast and brunch spots.

Depot park

Crystal River

About an hour and a half northwest of Orlando and north of Tampa is Crystal River, a small coastal town famous for its National Wildlife Refuge which shelters manatees throughout the year in the Three Sisters Springs . It is probably the best place to see manatees in Florida .

There is also an archaeological state park on land from an early Native American settlement. While you can find sandy beaches here, we recommend checking out the amazing wildlife and snorkeling opportunities that are unique to Crystal River.

You can find shark fishing and even swim or kayak with the manatees here. Crystal River has beautiful sunsets and exemplifies what it means to be the Nature Coast of Florida.

manatees-in-florida

Things to do in Florida at the end of the day…

Florida is an amazing state known for its great weather, beaches, attractions, and culture and good vacation spots. Cities throughout the state have a variety of world class museums, sporting venues, and theme parks.

We love traveling throughout Florida and taking in the best of each of the cities we have reviewed. Whether you want to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios or grab a Cuban sandwich in Miami, you can find just about anything and plenty of fun places to vist in the Sunshine State.

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Florida Vacationers

Florida Vacationers is the #1 place to find everything exciting to do in the Sunshine State from the incredible beaches to the beautiful springs, campgrounds and road trips - we are constantly on the lookout for hidden gems and secret spots! Bookmark this blog as your go to place for all things Florida related. We are so happy to have you as part of our Florida Vacationers community!

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Darla Purcell

Tuesday 28th of June 2022

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28 top things to do in florida (beyond disney world).

Disney World is worth a visit, but don't overlook these other unique things to do in Florida.

Top Things to Do in Florida

Sea turtle at Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Courtesy of Clearwater Marine Aquarium

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is one of Florida's most special places to visit.

When it comes to planning a Florida vacation , the theme parks in Orlando are top of mind for many people (not that there's anything wrong with that). But there are so many other things to do in Florida. You'll find beautiful natural wonders with crystal-clear waters fed by springs, world-renowned beaches , culturally rich cities, historical attractions reminiscent of Old Florida, exciting festivals and events, impressive museums, and one-of-a-kind amusement parks.

If you're looking for new places to visit and fun things to do in Florida, consider these unique attractions and experiences.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: Merritt Island

Apollo Saturn V Center, Moonscape, at Kennedy Space Center

Courtesy of Kennedy Space Center

The Kennedy Space Center features five Mission Zones covering 144,000 acres with attractions, interactive exhibits and 3D simulators about all things space exploration and the history of humanity's journey into space. One of the best ways to explore this expansive complex is with an 11-hour small-group VIP experience. Guided by a space expert, you'll be treated to a behind-the-scenes tour by bus highlighting the iconic attractions, transportation to and from your hotel, and other perks. Travelers rave about the center and comment that you don't have to be a space enthusiast to enjoy the visit. For a thrill of a lifetime, plan your trip around one of the scheduled launches to see space exploration come to life before your eyes.

Address: Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL 32953

Stay at an all-inclusive resort

Pool and cabanas at Bungalows Key Largo.

Courtesy of Bungalows Key Largo

Florida has a few all-inclusive resorts , including the adults-only Bungalows Key Largo in the Florida Keys. Rates include all meals, top-shelf alcoholic (and nonalcoholic) beverages, and a variety of amenities such as water sports and yoga classes. For other all-inclusive (or nearly all-inclusive) options, the Henderson Park Inn in Destin and Little Palm Island Resort & Spa (another top-rated resort in the Keys ) are worth considering.

Visit the sponge docks at Tarpon Springs

Boat decorated with sponges docked at the Sponge Docks in Tarpon Springs, Florida

Getty Images

Known as the "Sponge Capital of the World," Tarpon Springs has a rich Greek heritage and a unique history. The saltwater fishing village is best known for its natural sea sponges, which were harvested by divers from the Gulf of Mexico beginning in the late 1880s. More than 500 Greek divers with 50 boats worked in the industry by 1905. While in town, visit the original sponge docks along the Anclote River and grab a traditional Greek lunch at one of the restaurants on the docks, such as Mykonos. For dessert, Hellas Bakery & Restaurant offers a tempting selection of Greek pastries like baklava, kataifi and kourabiedes. And remember to take home a local sponge as a souvenir from your visit as the industry still exists today in Tarpon Springs.

Address: 735 Dodecanese Blvd., Tarpon Springs, FL 34689

Hop on a glass-bottom boat in Silver Springs State Park

Kayaking through Silver Springs State Park

Jason Frankle and Scott Wesson | Courtesy of Visit Florida

The historic glass-bottom boat tours on the Silver River in central Florida have attracted travelers since the 1870s. Visitors come to see the crystal-clear waters fed by springs, local marine life, and Spanish and Native American artifacts. You'll even catch a glimpse of old Hollywood underwater movie props at the park. There are two tour options: a 30-minute boat ride that operates throughout the day, 365 days a year, or a 90-minute excursion available Friday through Monday. Recent tourgoers enjoyed the boat ride and Silver Springs State Park, saying that it's a great choice for a local Florida experience.

Read: The Top Florida Springs to Visit

Wynwood Walls: Miami

Entrance gate for The Wynwwod Walls, the colorfully painted walls in Miami, Florida

Patrick Farrell | Courtesy of Visit Florida

Wynwood Walls is an acclaimed street art museum and urban revitalization project located in the Wynwood neighborhood of Miami. The installation opened in 2009 and is continually evolving, with 35,000 square feet of walls and more than 100 featured artists from 21 countries. Explore the open-air museum's murals, street art galleries, sculptures and retail shops on your own with a general admission ticket. Visitors enjoy the art displays and are impressed by the quality of the exhibits, with some saying they make return trips every time they're in Miami. After spending time at the Wynwood Walls and nearby Museum of Graffiti – two of the top museums in Miami – check out some of the local eateries, bars, boutiques and events in the neighborhood.

Address: 2516 NW Second Ave., Miami, FL 33127

See more of Miami: Best Things to Do | Hotels

Explore Winter Park

Scenic view of Winter Park, chain of lakes

Situated just north of Orlando, Winter Park feels worlds away from the bustling city. Take a walk along the tree-lined Park Avenue district with its popular restaurants and boutiques. You'll also find two impressive museums in town: the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art and Rollins Museum of Art. There are more than 70 parks for outdoor adventure – and be sure not to miss the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour. The hourlong narrated excursion traverses three lakes in the Winter Park Chain of Lakes, offering opportunities to see local wildlife and views of the impressive estates built along the shoreline.

The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art: Sarasota

Two people looking at a large piece of art at The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art

Courtesy of The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art

The Ringling is an impressive museum complex in Sarasota showcasing the legacy of renowned circus owner and art collector John Ringling and his wife, Mable. The Ringling was named the official State Art Museum of Florida in 1980 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. Plan an entire day to see the extensive collection of art at the museum and to visit Ca' d'Zan , the Mediterranean Revival mansion that was the winter residence of the Ringlings. Children of all ages will delight in the interactive exhibits at the Circus Museum. You can also stroll the beautiful Bayfront Gardens and visit the Historic Asolo Theater, Education Center, Kotler-Coville Glass Pavilion and more. Travelers call it a must-see when in Sarasota and rave about the museum, artwork, grounds and overall experience.

Address: 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, FL 34243

See more of Sarasota: Best Things to Do | Hotels

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: Tampa

Group of roller coasters at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Courtesy of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

If you're a thrill-seeker looking for heart-pumping rides and nonstop entertainment outside of Orlando, then plan a trip to Busch Gardens . Roller coaster fans will have plenty of exciting twists, drops and high-speed turns at the park, especially on the new Serengeti Flyer. The 135-foot-tall coaster is billed as the tallest and fastest ride of its kind in the world. For the less adventurous, head to the 65-acre Serengeti Plain for an open-air off-road tour. The 30-minute ride offers up-close safari encounters with African wildlife including zebras, giraffes, rhinos and antelopes. There are also plenty of activities at this Tampa attraction to keep children busy with rides, tours and activities designed for younger kids. Recent travelers like the concept of the theme park with the safari tours and comment that the grounds are well maintained.

Address: 10165 McKinley Drive, Tampa, FL 33612

See more of Tampa: Best Things to Do | Hotels

Hit the beach at Siesta Key

Coast Guard Beach house and beach, Siesta Key, Florida

This 8-mile-long barrier island of Siesta Key is famous for its powdery white sand beaches and sparkling turquoise waters along the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors to the beach call it one of the prettiest beaches in the U.S., saying they also enjoy the incredibly soft quartz sand that doesn't get too hot – even in the Florida sun. While on the island, take a ride on the complimentary Siesta Key Breeze Trolley for an overview of the area. Then, head over to Ocean Boulevard in Siesta Key Village to check out the local shopping, dining and entertainment scene.

Meet a manatee in Crystal River Preserve State Park

Manatees swimming at Homosassa Springs, Florida

Known as the "Manatee Capital of the World," Crystal River is located on Kings Bay. The bay's crystal-clear waters are fed 600 million gallons of fresh water daily by more than 70 springs. If you visit in the winter, you'll see as many as 500 to 1,000 manatees enjoying the cool spring-fed waters, whereas about 100 manatees reside there in the summer. For a one-of-a-kind experience, book a manatee tour with Crystal River Watersports, where you can swim and snorkel with one of these gentle giants. The company also offers scalloping excursions where you can hunt for your dinner and a unique chance to try out mermaid courses for all ages.

Ichetucknee River State Park

Kayaking the Ichetucknee River, Ichetucknee Springs State Park, Florida

Situated about 80 miles southwest of Jacksonville in Fort White, this nearly 2,700-acre state park is regarded as a haven for wildlife, including beavers, softshell turtles, wood ducks, limpkins and other species. You'll also find eight major springs that form the 6-mile-long Ichetucknee River, including one that's a National Natural Landmark. Travelers rave about the natural beauty and their experiences at the park. Aside from walks along the three nature trails and geo-seeking, activities here include canoeing, kayaking, scuba diving, swimming or tubing on the pristine river. The state park is also part of the Great Florida Birding Trail.

Gatorland: Orlando

A large American alligator in the water in Orlando, Florida

Alligators are one of Florida's most notorious residents, and this educational park is one of the top things to do in Orlando with kids . Whether you're fascinated by or terrified of these predators, you can see more than 2,000 American alligators of all ages and sizes (including 14-foot giants) – at a distance – at "The Alligator Capital of the World," Gatorland . There are plenty of other thrilling things to do at the 110-acre wildlife preserve and theme park, including the 1,200-foot-high Screamin' Gator Zip Line and a Stompin' Gator Off-Road Adventure in the swamp on a monster vehicle. If you dare, reserve a spot for the behind-the-scenes tour during Adventure Hour, where you'll be up close and personal with (and even able to feed) hundreds of hungry alligators. Reviewers say they enjoyed the shows, activities and seeing all the gators, and some even wished they had planned to spend more time at the preserve and park.

Address: 14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32837

See more of Orlando: Best Things to Do | Hotels

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument: St. Augustine

Aerial of the Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine, Florida

Castillo de San Marcos was built by Spanish colonists in the late 1600s to defend their settlement of Florida and the Atlantic trade route. The well-preserved structure is the oldest masonry fortification in the continental U.S., and it was designated as a national monument in 1924 by President Calvin Coolidge. You'll find park rangers and volunteers in period dress stationed throughout the fort to answer questions while you explore on your own. They'll also elaborate on the experiences of colonists that lived at the fort hundreds of years ago. Musket and cannon demonstrations take place at scheduled times on most weekends. Be sure to download the official Castillo park app for a self-guided tour and other information to help you make the most of your visit.

Address: 11 S. Castillo Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32084

See more of St. Augustine: Best Things to Do | Hotels

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Vizcaya Museum & Gardens: Miami

Wide shot of Vizcaya Museum and Gardens with city in background

Robin Hill | Courtesy of Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

This 45,225-square-foot Mediterranean-style mansion – situated on Biscayne Bay in the Coconut Grove area of Miami – is home to an impressive collection of artwork, sculptures and priceless antiques. Retired millionaire and bachelor James Deering began building the property in 1914 but died in 1925, only a few years after it was completed, leaving the mansion to the children of his half-brother and sister. The family looked after the home and property and worked to make it accessible to the public. Vizcaya opened as a museum in 1953. Today, visitors can tour 34 decorated rooms (out of 54 rooms total) of The Main House, covering approximately 38,000 square feet. They can also stroll through the European-inspired gardens that are regarded as some of the most elaborately designed gardens in the U.S. Travelers praise the home and gardens and say the complimentary audio tour covers a lot of interesting information about the family.

Address: 3251 S. Miami Ave., Miami, FL 33129

Everglades National Park

Sunset in the Everglades with reflections in the water

Everglades National Park is the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S. and is considered an international treasure. The park has the distinction of being named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an International Biosphere Reserve and a Wetland of International Importance – and it's protected under the Cartagena Treaty. The National Park Service recommends visiting in the dry season, between November and April. The winter months also afford optimal opportunities to see wildlife, including endangered and rare species like the Florida panther, manatee and American crocodile. For the best experience, take a ranger-guided tour or event, an airboat tour by one of the approved operators, or a guided tour by kayak or canoe. There are also tour options for anglers and photographers as well as eco-tours.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium: Clearwater

Rex and Rudy dolphins at Clearwater Marine Aquarium

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a unique nonprofit marine rescue center and one of the top aquariums in the U.S. The facility engages in research, education, rehabilitation and release programs. Two beloved dolphins at Clearwater even garnered the attention of filmmakers: "Dolphin Tale" and "Dolphin Tale 2" share the emotional stories of Winter and Hope. Other than dolphins, visitors will find rescued sea turtles, stingrays, river otters, nurse sharks and more marine life here. You'll learn more about ongoing rescue and rehabilitation efforts and even meet some of the rescued animals. Reviewers say the facility is beautiful and the staff is dedicated and knowledgeable. The aquarium also offers exhibits and animal care experiences where you can meet some of the residents. To see the local marine life in their natural habitat, book one of the aquarium's guided eco-boat tours on Clearwater Bay.

Address: 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL 33767

See more of Clearwater: Best Things to Do | Hotels

Daytona International Speedway: Daytona Beach

DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA - JANUARY 31: Jimmie Johnson drives during the NASCAR Project 56 Test at Daytona International Speedway on January 31, 2023 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by James Gilbert/Getty Images)

A trip to Daytona International Speedway is a must-do for NASCAR enthusiasts when visiting Florida. The speedway offers an hourlong speedway tour and a 2.5-hour VIP tour. The VIP experience is available once a day on Tuesdays, Wednesday and Thursdays and includes an exclusive visit to the NASCAR Archives & Research Center and Press Box. You can also plan to attend one of the races at the speedway, including the best-known event, the Daytona 500. Visitors say it's an incredible experience to go out on the track, and many rave about the quality of the tours and the museum.

Address: 1801 W. International Speedway Blvd., Daytona Beach, FL 32114

See more of Daytona Beach: Best Things to Do | Hotels

McKee Botanical Garden: Vero Beach

Cycas Siamensis (Cycas Panzhihuaensis) at Mckee Botanical Gardens in Vero Beach, Indian River County, Florida

The history of this property dates back to 1922, when two land developers purchased an 80-acre tract to grow citrus. However, after some consideration, they decided not to disturb the land's natural beauty and instead hired a landscape architect from the celebrated firm of Frederick Law Olmsted to design the gardens. By the 1940s, more than 100,000 tourists were visiting McKee Jungle Gardens each year to see the impressive collection of waterlilies, orchids, and other ornamental and exotic plants from around the world.

Today, guests can wander through the now 18-acre jungle that's listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The gardens are also regarded as a preservation project of national significance by the Garden Conservancy. If you have kids in tow on your visit, don't miss the Children's Garden here. Travelers enjoy the serenity of the gardens and comment that it's a beautiful place for photography.

Address: 350 U.S. Route 1, Vero Beach, FL 32962

See more of Vero Beach: Best Things to Do | Hotels

World Equestrian Center: Ocala

Horse statue, flags and front of the World Equestrian Center

Courtesy of MAVEN photo + film for the World Equestrian Center

The World Equestrian Center is the largest equestrian complex in the U.S., with state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor facilities that host many equestrian events and other recreational activities throughout the year. Dog lovers can attend canine events, for example, such as the national specialty dog shows. You'll also find live music at the Yellow Pony Pub & Garden, Food Truck Fridays and Grand Prix Dining Experiences. If you're looking for a wedding venue, you can get married in the on-site chapel and then have the reception in a beautiful setting under the majestic oak trees in the garden. For an extended visit to experience all the center has to offer, plan to stay a few days at The Equestrian Hotel, a luxury resort on the grounds.

Address: 1750 NW 80th Ave., Ocala, FL 34482

Gulf Islands National Seashore

A colorful sunset over the seaoats and dunes on Fort Pickens Beach in the Gulf Islands National Seashore, Florida

Situated along the sparkling emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Gulf Islands National Seashore includes coastal regions in both Florida and Mississippi. There are six areas in Florida to explore: Fort Barrancas, Fort Pickens, Naval Live Oaks, Okaloosa, Perdido Key and Santa Rosa. History buffs will appreciate the fortifications, exhibits and visitor centers at the two fort areas. At Naval Live Oaks, you can hike 7-plus miles of trails and then have a picnic along the bay. Beach lovers will enjoy spending the day at Perdido Key, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the U.S. You can even go backcountry camping by boat at Perdido Key. And after the sun goes down, look up at the sky as this national seashore is an excellent place for stargazing.

Note: Fort Barrancas was closed to the public at the time of publication. It is expected to reopen for visitation in summer 2023. Consult the National Park Service for more information.

The Hemingway Home and Museum: Key West

Exterior and grounds of the Hemingway Home and Museum

Rob-O'Neal | Courtesy of Hemingway Home and Museum

The legendary author Ernest M. Hemingway first visited Key West in April 1928. During this trip to the Florida Keys, he finished his novel "A Farewell to Arms." He and his second wife, Pauline, fell in love with the island, and after two seasons Pauline's uncle bought a home for them on Whitehead Street. The Spanish Colonial home, built in 1851, was in disrepair when it was purchased and went through a significant restoration project in the 1930s. Today, Hemingway's home is a National Historic Landmark. Many of Hemingway's personal artifacts remain in the house. According to tourgoers, you can even see quite a few six-toed cats wandering the property, just like the six-toed tomcat that belonged to Hemingway. Guided 20- to 30-minute tours are available daily.

Address: 907 Whitehead St., Key West, FL 33040

See more of Key West: Best Things to Do | Hotels

South Beach: Miami Beach

Walkway and palm trees in South Beach, Miami Beach

South Beach is one of three neighborhoods located on the 9-mile-long barrier island of Miami Beach . The area runs between South Pointe Park north to 23rd Street along the Atlantic Ocean and is best known for its colorful art deco buildings lining famed Ocean Drive. You won't want to miss Lincoln Road, a popular mile-long pedestrian area with boutiques, restaurants and street performers. South Beach is also home to The Wolfsonian: This museum houses one of the most extensive American university art collections of decorative arts, design and propaganda pieces from 1850 to 1950. Before leaving town, head to Lummus Park, a beachfront park where you'll have some of the best people-watching in South Beach.

Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park

Boat at dock at Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park in Florida

Located approximately 15 miles south of Tallahassee , Wakulla Springs takes guests back to Old Florida and gives them opportunities to glimpse deer, alligators, manatees and turtles. The 6,000-acre wildlife sanctuary has thousands of years of history and boasts one of the world's deepest and largest freshwater springs plus an ancient cypress swamp. This setting was the perfect backdrop for filming "Tarzan's Secret Treasure" (1941) and "Creature From the Black Lagoon" (1954). Take the 45- to 55-minute ranger-led glass-bottom boat tour on the Wakulla River for incredible wildlife-viewing opportunities. The spring-fed water is remarkably clear, which helped a mastodon skeleton be discovered within its depths. The ancient fossil is now on display at the Museum of Florida History in Tallahassee.

Palace Saloon: Amelia Island

Exterior of Palace Saloon

Dawna Moore | Courtesy of AmeliaIsland.com

Grab a seat and tip back a cold one at the oldest continuously operating bar in the state: the Palace Saloon. Located on Centre Street in downtown Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island , the historic building was originally designed as a haberdashery in 1878. When it was purchased in 1903, the new owner enlisted the assistance of his friend – the founder of Anheuser-Busch, Adolphus Bush – to create an upscale "gentleman's establishment." The bar was so exclusive that it even attracted the wealthy Carnegie and Rockefeller families who vacationed on nearby Cumberland Island, Georgia, during that time. Local lore claims the Palace Saloon was the last bar to close in Florida during Prohibition and that it survived by selling special wines, ice cream, Texaco gasoline, 3% near-beer and cigars. Today, the interior retains much of its original charm, although the clientele has changed. When in town, stop by the saloon's new outdoor space, The Shipyard, and order a famous Pirates Punch.

Address: 117 Centre St., Fernandina Beach, FL 32034

The Dalí Museum: St. Petersburg

Visitors looking at artwork at the Salvador Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg, Florida

Courtesy of 2023 – Salvador Dalí Museum, Inc., St. Petersburg, FL

The Dalí Museum highlights the life and work of the innovative artist Salvador Dalí. The design of the building, by architect Yann Weymouth of HOK, is the perfect introduction to the eccentric pieces of art inside. Known as the Enigma, the 18-inch hurricane-proof glass sections create a 75-foot-tall geodesic bubble in the center of the building resembling the one at his museum in Spain. Visitors can view the permanent collections at The Dalí, which include prints, paintings, objects, photographs and works on paper. You'll also find rotating exhibits from other artists, special events and classes. Reviewers comment that the exterior is as much a work of art as the collections inside and say it's better to visit when additional exhibits are on display and you can spend more time at the museum. After your visit, have dinner and watch the sunset at one of the restaurants on St. Pete Pier.

Address: 1 Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg, FL 33701

See more of St. Petersburg: Best Things to Do | Hotels

John Pennecamp Coral Reef State Park: Key Largo

Bronze Christ Statue at the John Pennekamp Coral Reef Park in Florida

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park encompasses 70 nautical miles, and it was the first undersea park in the U.S. You can take a glass-bottom boat tour to view the coral reefs and marine life from above, though scuba divers and snorkelers may want a closer look at the underwater habitats that are part of the Florida Keys ecosystem. In addition to colorful sponges and different species of fish, you may also see crabs, lobsters, dolphins, sea turtles and manatees. If you want to visit the famous 9-foot-tall bronze statue known as Christ of the Abyss located off the coast, you'll need to take a boat tour with a company like Silent World Dive Center in Key Largo. For an extended stay to enjoy more water-based activities like kayaking and canoeing, plan to camp overnight in the park.

See more of Key Largo: Best Things to Do | Hotels

Come for Gasparilla Season in Tampa Bay

Pirate ship at sunset for Gasparilla Season in Tampa Bay, Florida

Courtesy of Visit Tampa Bay

This two-month-long event features a massive pirate festival, named for the (likely fictitious) pirate José Gaspar of local legend. The Gasparilla Pirate Fest has been thrilling attendees since its inception in 1904. The swashbuckling fun kicks off at the end of January with the third-largest parade in the country. The 4.5-mile route features hundreds of elaborate floats with treasures to pillage, all led by the captain of Ye Mystic Krewe and his pirates. Gasparilla Season also features an outdoor music festival, a children's parade followed by a fireworks display, a film fest, an arts fest and much more. Even college football teams and their buccaneer fans get in on the parley during the Gasparilla Bowl in December. If you're ready for a yo-ho-ho good time, bring your hearties and scallywags to Tampa Bay during Gasparilla Season. Aargh.

Lion Country Safari: Loxahatchee

Zebras on the road at Lion Country Safari

Courtesy of Lion Country Safari

Lion Country Safari is a 320-acre family-friendly attraction in a rural part of Palm Beach County about 20 miles from West Palm Beach . The drive-thru concept opened in 1967 as one of the first cageless zoos in the U.S., with free-roaming lions and other animals offering a big game experience close to home. The year-round tropical climate in Florida is ideal for the large herds of animals originating from six continents, including lions, giraffes, wildebeest, zebras, rhinos and chimpanzees. The safari is also involved in conservation efforts and breeding programs for threatened species.

You'll find seven main habitats across 4 miles of the safari. There's also a 55-acre adventure park with rides, a petting zoo and animal encounters, a water park, paddleboats, and other attractions. You can even take an escorted VIP tour with an expert guide that includes two up-close experiences with some of the animals. Travelers say they enjoy getting close to the animals, that it's worth a visit and a great way to spend an afternoon.

Address: 2003 Lion Country Safari Road, Loxahatchee, FL 33470

Read: The Top Zoos in the U.S.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is an avid travel adventurer and culinary explorer who has covered the Southeast and coastal and central regions of Florida since 2009. She is a resident of Amelia Island, Florida. She frequently visits other parts of the state to explore the lesser-known areas and unique destinations that many travelers miss when visiting Orlando. She writes about the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

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Florida Travel With Kids

Florida Travel With Kids

Exploring the best things to do in Florida with kids

The 21 Best Places to Visit in Florida with Kids

Best Places to Visit in Florida with Kids

Best Places to Visit in Florida with Kids

Here at Florida Travel with Kids, it’s pretty obvious that we, well, travel Florida with kids. So, if you’re looking for the best places to visit in Florida with kids, you’re in the right spot!

Taking the kids to Florida on vacation has practically become a must. After all, there is Disney, Universal, and tons of beaches. And don’t forget about all the sunshine and warmth! But, how do you decide where to go? I recommend beginning with these best places to visit in Florida with kids. 

There are plenty of kid-friendly areas in Florida. Some have theme parks, while others have beaches and national parks. The options are endless with family-friendly Florida destinations. So, which family vacation spots in Florida will make it to the top of your list? 

Flying into Florida? Get a cheap rental car!

If you decide to rent a car during your Florida vacation, I recommend renting a car from  Discount USA Car Rental.

Whenever I need to rent a car, I use Discount USA Car Rental; you can use it at all major Florida airports (and even most of the smaller ones!) and rent from large companies such as Hertz, Enterprise, Alamo, etc. at discounted prices.

Here are the best places to visit in Florida with kids, in no particular order (but one of our favorites is first!)

Clearwater is one of the most family-friendly Florida destinations. This small town is on the Gulf Coast. A half-hour drive from Tampa or St. Petersburg. Since it is a small town, you won’t feel as rushed to see everything during your visit.

best beaches near Orlando

The beach has soft white sand and sparkling blue water. When you are at the beach, you can spend your time paddleboarding, parasailing, or just hanging out on the beach. You can also check out 30 Things to do in Clearwater with Kids

Best Places to Visit in Florida with Kids

There are plenty of parks near the beach, as well as restaurants. One of our favorite attractions to visit in Clearwater is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium . Other kid-friendly activities include a pirate cruise, dolphin-watching tours, and mini-golf. 

Before leaving Clearwater, you will want to walk along Pier 60 at sunset. The views are Instagram-worthy! Clearwater is also home to some of the  best shelling beaches in Florida.

Hotel Recommendation: Hyatt Regency Clearwater

I love how vibrant Key West is, so I know kids will love the area as much as adults do! Stay away from Duval Street at night, and you will enjoy every moment of your visit. 

Duval Street is exciting enough during the day. At night, your focus should be on the Sunset Celebration inside Mallory Square. 

Your daytime hours in Key West can be spent on a catamaran dolphin tour . Or you can visit the Ernest Hemingway Home. The kids will love all the cats. The Conch Train and Key West Butterfly, and Nature Conservatory are two more ideas to add to your list. 

Don’t forget to check out  30 things to do from Miami to Key West ,  35 Things to Do in Key West with Kids , and  the 40 best places to eat in Key West Florida too!

Best Places to Visit in Florida with Kids

If spending time just in Key West isn’t enough for your family vacation, you can always make a road trip of the Florida Keys. There are 42 bridges connecting all the islands. The most popular bridge is the 7 Mile Bridge. 

Drive all the way from Key Largo to Key West and see how many adventures your family can have! A few that automatically come to mind include feeding tarpons in Islamorada, riding a glass-bottom boat at the John Pennekamp State Park, and visiting the Turtle Hospital. 

Hotel Recommendation: The Marker Key West Harbor Resort

Okay, so I might as well get Orlando onto this list of the best places to visit in Florida with kids. We all know that Orlando is one of the most family-friendly Florida destinations. It’s one of our family’s favorite places in Florida; in fact, we’re even annual pass-holders at Universal!

The main reasons that Orlando is so popular with families are the theme parks, mainly Disney World and Universal Orlando. 

If you want theme park tips, check out 25 Free Things at Disney World, Star Wars Land vs. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, First Timer Tips for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and more park tips .

Best Places to Visit in Florida with Kids

When you tire of the theme parks, there are still plenty of fun family options in Orlando. You can take a hot air balloon ride or take a walk on a walking trail. Mini golf, kayaking, and bike riding are other options you may want to find time for during your stay. 

You can also get a City Pass and visit places like Gatorland, Madame Tussauds, and more. By the way, not everything in Orlando is expensive!  50 free things to do in Orlando will give you some ideas on how to visit Orlando on tighter budget.

Hotel Recommendation: Four Seasons at Walt Disney World Resort or Loews Royal Pacific at Universal Orlando.

Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island is one of the best family vacation spots in Florida. This is an excellent location if you want to spend time away from the crowds with your family. 

Time on this barrier island is best spent in the water or on the sand. The best activities on Sanibel include swimming and snorkeling. Shelling on Bowman’s Beach is also quite fun. 

Best Places to Visit in Florida with Kids

Fishing is best at the pier. And long walks along the boardwalk will take you through the wetlands. Don’t forget to take a little time to visit the lighthouse on Lighthouse Beach during your vacation in Sanibel. 

Although Hurricane Ian sadly hit Sanibel island in 2022, the re-opening efforts are happening! Check out the best things to do in Sanibel and Captiva when they are ready to welcome visitors again.

Hotel Recommendation: Sundial Beach Resort & Spa

Captiva Island

Captiva Island is right next to Sanibel Island. It is simple to combine a visit to these two islands during your Florida family vacation. 

It is all about the outdoors while staying on Captiva Island. Families can spend their time sailing, snorkeling, and participating in other water sports. On land, you can get all bike rides or go birdwatching. 

One of the best places to see birds, and other native wildlife, is the Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge. This Florida nature preserve is over on Sanibel Island. I recommend beginning your visit at the Visitor Center. 

The Wildlife Drive is four miles long. If you do not want to drive this on your own, you can sign up for one of the tram tours. There are also three walking trails and two canoe launches. 

Best Places to Visit in Florida with Kids

The best thing about Sanibel Island is there is plenty of action at night. Live music is played in many the restaurants and bars. However, you will need to have a babysitter with you to leave the kids at the hotel for a couple of hours. 

Hotel Recommendation: ‘Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa

There are more theme parks located in Tampa, which is why that area is growing in popularity for family vacations in Florida. When you choose this family-friendly Florida destination, you can visit Busch Gardens and Dinosaur World . Legoland is also a quick one-hour drive from Tampa. 

No child can resist a few games at Laser Ops Extreme Gaming Arcade. And the whole family will love seeing the gators, sharks, and otters at the Florida Aquarium. 

Best Places to Visit in Florida with Kids

Tampa is also one of the best places to visit for sporting events. I recommend planning your visit so that you can watch a Tampa Bay Lightning hockey game, a Tampa Bay Rays baseball game, or Tampa Bay Buccaneers football game. 

Make sure to check out  50 free things to do in Tampa with kids and Seaside Seabird Sanctuary review.

Hotel Recommendation: Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay

Daytona Beach

One of the best things to do at Daytona Beach is simply to spend the day at the beach! There is plenty to do there when you are not in the water or building a sandcastle. 

Start by walking along the Daytona Beach Boardwalk to see what’s around. Then play the games and go on the rides. If you can’t get enough of the water, the Daytona Lagoon’s waterpark should fill that void. 

best beaches near Orlando

Teenagers, or any child that loves cars, will want to visit the Daytona International Speedway. I recommend planning your vacation coinciding with race day if possible. Especially if your family loves watching racing on television. 

There is a lighthouse nearby, which is worthy of a visit. The Marine Science Center will teach your family all you need to know about the local marine life. 

Hotel Recommendation: Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach

Destin is your best option if you search for a family vacation spot in Florida with a relaxed vibe. This is one family-friendly Florida destination with plenty to keep your family occupied while having a little downtime. 

The entire family will love spending time at Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park. Although, the kids will prefer the waterslides while you spend your time in the lazy river. 

Another action-packed day can be spent go-karting at the nearby track. Other family-friendly activities include pirate cruises and dolphin tours. We even have a blog post with  32 things to do in Destin  with kids, so make sure to check it out. 

Best Places to Visit in Florida with Kids

Marine life is also everywhere at the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. Although, you will probably focus on the dolphins and penguins the most. 

When you need to relax at the beach, you have options. I recommend venturing over to Henderson Beach State Park or Crystal Beach for different views. 

We also love nearby Navarre, so check out The 20 best things to do in Navarre with kids.

Hotel Recommendation: Hotel Effie Sandestin

Delray Beach

Delray Beach is one of Florida’s best places to visit with older kids. This beach town is located within Palm Beach County. There are numerous beaches in town. They are all perfect for those lazy beach days you have been craving. 

Another outdoor must-see is the Wakodahatchee Wetlands. Many wildlife live within the wetlands, so it is the best place to wander around to see native animals. Other animals can be seen at the Sandoway Discovery Center. 

Best Places to Visit in Florida with Kids

An afternoon of shopping is possible when you take the time to visit the Pineapple Grove Arts District. There are also art galleries amongst the boutiques. So, you may be able to sneak the kids into one or two without them realizing it. 

Don’t worry; afterward, you can reward them with a few games at the Silverball Museum. There are more than one hundred pinball machines and video games to choose from there. 

Hotel Recommendation: The Seagate Hotel & Spa

The palm tree-lined streets of Naples all lead to fancy homes that are worth millions. Those homeowners all love to play golf, so there are so many golf courses in the area. 

This may be a family vacation, but don’t be surprised if dad (or maybe mom!) requests to be relieved from the “family vacation” for a few hours. It’s hard to resist a round or two in beautiful Naples. 

Best Places to Visit in Florida with Kids

Long walks on the beach are a must while visiting Naples. You can see dozens of dolphins out in the water from the beach. When you are not on the beach, you may find yourself doing a little shopping in one of the many boutiques. 

The Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is one of the must-see attractions in Naples. So, if your kids want to see critters, visit there along with the zoo. 

Check out  Unique things to do in Naples Florida for even more family-friendly Naples activities.

Hotel Recommendation: La Playa Beach & Golf Resort

Fort Myers Beach

Fort Myers Beach offers seven miles of sandy shoreline and sparkling water, perfect for swimming. This is one of the best places to visit in Florida with kids because there are quite a few family-friendly activities. 

Swimming, pirate cruises, and dolphin tours can all be done at the beach. And when you need a little time out of the sun, there are a few shops at the beach to purchase some souvenirs. 

Of course, you can always head away from the Gulf of Mexico for a day and go into the city. That is where you will find attractions like the IMAG History and Science Center, GameTime Arcade, and HeadPinz. 

Best Places to Visit in Florida with Kids

However, one of the more exciting attractions in Ft. Myers is Manatee Park. I recommend renting a kayak to see these creatures in their natural environment. 

Baseball lovers will want to visit when the Mighty Mussels play in JetBlue Park. The Mussels might not be Major League. But they play a good game! 

Hotel Recommendation: Diamond Head Beach Resort

Another great place to see manatees if north of Tampa in Crystal River. Check out  16 things to do in Crystal River with kids to learn more.

Panama City Beach

A traditional beach vacation is what you will find when you choose Panama City Beach as your destination in Florida. This is one of the best places to visit in Florida with kids if you want to spend days and nights near the water. 

You may want to venture out on a dolphin tour or pirate cruise when you are not swimming. Or you can change your scenery and do a few water activities at Shipwreck Island. 

family-friendly Florida destinations

Hiking through St. Andrews State Park is a must, as is shelling on Shell Island. If it rains during your Florida vacation, Ripley’s Believe It or Not and WonderWorks will have their doors open for your family. 

Hotel Recommendation: Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach

Miami often gets a bad rap because the nightclubs and spring break parties get talked about the most. There are plenty of family-friendly activities in Miami, though. So, it should be right near the top of your list of family-friendly Florida destinations! 

When visiting the Museum of Illusions, your entire family will get a few laughs. Marine life is everywhere at the Miami Seaquarium. And you won’t want to forget to grab a few souvenirs when shopping near Biscayne Bay. 

family-friendly Florida destinations

However, the highlight of any trip to Miami is a side trip to the Everglades. Jumping into an airboat to see the gators is more exciting than anything else in this vibrant city. 

Grab a City Pass and visit the zoo or ride to an airport at a discount.

Hotel Recommendation: Loews Miami Beach Hotel

St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg may be small, but it’s action-packed like the bigger cities are. Thanks to the pink streets, Pinellas Point is always at the top of my list. But once you have wandered around that area, you may be more than ready to relax on sandy St. Pete Beach. 

Of course, if you still need to see the sights, the Sunken Gardens and Boyd Nature Preserve are nearby, as are the Salvador Dali Museum and Great Explorations Children’s Museum. 

family-friendly Florida destinations

During your time in St. Pete, you must visit at least one of the outdoor markets. The local foods are amazing, and you can eat as much as you want while live music plays in the background. 

Hotel Recommendation: The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club

Amelia Island

There aren’t as many people vacationing on Amelia Island. This is perfect if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the real world with your family. 

You can spend days enjoying the sun, sand, and surf on the thirteen miles of beaches. Or you can wander through the Historic District and visit the local museums. Thanks to all the boutiques, a little shopping adventure may be in order when downtown.

Best Places to Visit in Florida with Kids

My favorite activities on the island are horseback riding on the beach, kayaking, and taking one of the many boat tours. There are even walking history tours if your family is interested in learning more about the island. 

Hotel Recommendation: The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island

Anna Maria Island

This island is only seven miles long and only a few blocks across. It’s so small that you may think it is too small when you arrive for your family vacation. However, this family vacation spot in Florida has plenty for everyone to do. 

Best Places to Visit in Florida with Kids

The kids will love ziplining all day long without waiting in line for hours to take their turn. The dragon boat excursion is also a hit, but be prepared to book that adventure early. It’s popular with the locals too. 

Hotel Recommendation: Cedar Cove Resort and Cottages

Jacksonville

Jacksonville is a larger city in Florida. While it doesn’t have the theme parks like Orlando and Tampa, there is still plenty of things to do for the younger crowd. At the top of your list, you may want to consider the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. More animals can be seen at the Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary. 

Best Places to Visit in Florida with Kids

There are twenty-two miles of beaches in Jacksonville. Each mile offers stunning views and lots of space on the sand. You may even want to do a little fishing while you are there. 

You will find multiple parks in this city. None of them are as incredible as Little Talbot State Park, though. This park is perfect for hiking. Plus, you can sign the kids up to be a Junior Ranger for the day. They’ll love being “in charge”! 

Hotel Recommendation: Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront

Unique tours are plentiful in the city of Sarasota. Your family will be thrilled to take the electric bike tour, kayak tour, and even the trolley tour. Each one offers a different view of the city and the beach. 

Best Places to Visit in Florida with Kids

Siesta Beach is the best beach for families. There is a play area for everyone tired of the sand. 

Exotic animals can be seen at Jungle Gardens, and quiet time is available at South Lido Park. The John & Mable Ringling Museum is a beautiful place to learn about a few of Sarasota’s famous residents. 

If you plan on making your own meals or want a few quick snacks, you must check out the local farmer’s market. 

Hotel Recommendation: The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is another one of the crazy spring break destinations in Florida. That doesn’t mean you should leave this location off your family vacation list! After all, there are quite a few family-friendly attractions and activities available to keep you all busy and happy. 

Most of your time will be spent out in the Atlantic Ocean. Whether your family chooses to swim, snorkel, jet ski, or scuba dive depends on the day and your mood. If you want to stay dry, you can always board the paddlewheel boat for a sightseeing cruise. 

The largest outlet mall in the country is located in Fort Lauderdale too. So, you know you must spend a few hours shopping at Sawgrass Mills! Or at any of the shops that line Olas Boulevard. 

Hotel Recommendation: Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa

Space Coast

One of the best and most popular places to visit Florida with kids is the Space Coast. All families seem to love the idea of exploring space. So what better way than to discover it through the Kennedy Space Center! 

where to visit in Florida with kids

As soon as you have had your science lesson, you can head over to Cocoa Beach for fun in the sun. Surf lessons are a must at this beach, as is a stop at the Ron Jon Surf Shop. 

Another beach experience is available during long walks on the Indialantic Boardwalk. If you prefer to see animals while walking around, you could always do the Treetop Trek at the Brevard Zoo instead. 

Don’t miss  33 fantastic things to do in Cape Canaveral Florida for more ideas.

Hotel Recommendation: International Palms Oceanfront Resort Cocoa Beach

St. Augustine

St. Augustine is one of the oldest cities in the US. History is everywhere, yet no one in your family will be bored during your visit. The kids will love the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Castle of St. Mark. You will want to spend a little extra time at the Fountain of Youth. 

We have an entire post with  things to do in St. Augustine with Kids if you need more ideas!

The St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum is a must-see for everyone. An abundance of pirate-themed activities, dinners, and cruises are only some of what you will find yourself doing during your visit. 

Best Places to Visit in Florida with Kids

No vacation in Florida is complete without heading out to see the dolphins and manatees. I recommend a cruise on the Intercoastal Waterway if you want to see these creatures and many different sea birds while in St. Augustine. 

The history of this city also means there are ghosts around every corner. To learn more about these ghosts, you must take the Secrets of St. Augustine Ghost Tour. 

Hotel Recommendation: Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront

Kid-friendly Florida Destinations

These are the best places to visit in Florida with kids. Each area offers unique experiences. Only you will know which of these family vacation spots in Florida will work best for your next trip away from home. 

I hope this list of the best places to stay in Florida with kids helps you plan your next vacation.

If you’re planning to visit any Orlando theme parks, I highly recommend buying your tickets through Undercover Tourist. There are a lot of really scammy sites out there, so make sure you’re booking through an approved partner (like Undercover Tourist.)

About Florida Travel With Kids

Florida Travel with Kids was started by a family who loves to travel the state of Florida with kids! This site will help you explore the fun state of Florida and all of the kid-friendly activities you’ll find here.

Did you enjoy this post? I would love it if you would pin it for later! Or, make sure to share it with your friends on social media if they are looking for things to do in Florida with kids. 

Best Places to Visit in Florida with Kids

Florida Travel with Kids was started by a family who loves to travel the state of Florida with kids! This site will help you explore the fun state of Florida and all of the kid-friendly activities you’ll find here.

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Mexico under caution warning from U.S. for spring break. 5 Florida beach towns to go to instead

Fort lauderdale, panama city and daytona beach not the only florida spring break destinations.

places to visit in florida for vacation

College students and families planning a spring break in Mexico may want to reconsider, according to an advisory issued by the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico.

The advisory , posted Monday, says that while many thousands of people travel through Mexico safely, Mexico-bound visitors should be aware of high levels of crime (particularly in the downtown areas of popular spring break destinations Cancún. , Playa Del Carmen and Tulum), sexual assault, counterfeit or ineffective prescription drugs, unregulated alcohol, high-priced hospitals and strict laws against drunk and disorderly behavior, possession of drugs, guns or ammunition, along with natural dangers such as dangerous beaches without lifeguards or warnings.

Well, if you're looking for a new spring break vacation location, the party did start in Florida.

Ever since a New York university swim coach took his team down to Florida one spring for some early training in the 1930s, the idea of spending a week or two in the warm has been a powerful motivator, building up to hundreds of thousands of bathing-suit-clad students bringing their volleyballs and fake IDs to Fort Lauderdale, Panama City Beach and Daytona Beach in the 1980s. Crackdowns on public behavior and stricter alcohol laws calmed the parties down a bit, and famed party town Miami Beach is pushing back hard against spring break this year.

But Florida still remains a top destination for people wanting a break from the cold, with March temps projected in the 70s.

If you're avoiding Mexico this year and don't want to bother with a passport, Fort Lauderdale, Daytona Beach and Panama City Beach are still top places to relax, unwind and enjoy yourself. But the Sunshine State has other locations to consider besides those annual favorites.

‘You are going to pay the price:’ DeSantis sends more cops to Florida spring break hot spots. Here’s where

1. TripAdvisor names Siesta Beach one of the best in the world

If you want the best, head to the west. Siesta Beach in Siesta Key, west of Sarasota on the state's west coast, regularly makes TripAdvisor's list of best beaches based on user reviews. Currently listed at No. 2 in the United States and No. 9 worldwide , the site praises the snow-white sand and small-town feel.

"Whether you want to relax or fill your day with activities, Siesta Beach delivers," Tripadvisor said on its website.

"Kick back on the white sand, go swimming in the clear water, play some outdoor sports, or simply admire the sunset — it's up to you. The family-friendly beach is easy to get to via public transportation, offers wheelchair access, and has plenty of parking, restrooms, and a small concession stand. There are a variety of shops and lively restaurants nearby, too."

Siesta Key, on the brilliant green waters of the Gulf of Mexico, is close to lots of restaurants and bars, a thriving arts community, and one of the largest state parks in Florida, Myakka River State Park.

Take that, Hawaii! : This Florida beach tops Dr. Beach's Top 10 list for 2023

2. Delray Beach a small-town spot with plenty of attraction

Delray Beach , a 15-square-mile city in Palm Beach County, was awarded the prestigious international Blue Flag designation last year, one of only two in the entire U.S., after meeting 33 stringent environmental, educational, safety and accessibility criteria. 

But what visitors will probably be interested in is the vibrant downtown area, huge number of unique restaurants, and, of course, the 7,000 feet of beach with a mile of it blessedly free from looming high-rise condos. Surf, sail, or just hit the water at the beach that "Travel Holiday" magazine named the best public beach in the Southeast for swimming. Or, for some less crowded sand time, head to nearby Atlantic Dunes Park, which features 450 feet of guarded beach.

When the sun goes down or you've just had enough for one day, Delray's Atlantic Avenue is a 20-minute walk from the shore with a staggering assortment of restaurants, bars, art galleries, clothing boutiques and antique stores. A few miles away, Delray Marketplace offers even more. Delray is also convenient to several other excellent beaches and attractions.

3. New Smyrna Beach is Daytona without the crowds, mostly

Daytona Beach is famed for its 26 miles of hard-packed beach and its worldwide tradition of unbridled spring break madness, but if you want a somewhat calmer version just head a bit south to New Smyrna Beach.

Students (and their families) congregate at the beach and hit the charming shops and restaurants on Flagler Avenue for a relaxing week of sand and surf, within easy driving distance of Daytona Beach, Orlando and Cocoa Beach.

However, keep in mind that the city imposed a youth curfew last year to cut down on disruptions, trash and drunk driving so it's likely there'll be one again this year.

4. Key West is still a party town

There's an amazing laid-back party scene year-round in Key West, so why not have your spring break there? The southernmost tip of the continental U.S. is just four miles long by one mile wide so once you get there transportation isn't a problem and live music and great food is never very far away.

Plus Key West may have the most activities to do when you're not actually lying on the beach. Swim, dive down to the coral reefs, fish, take one of the many boat tours or sunset sails, jetski, visit some astounding art galleries, watch the performers at the sunset celebration at Mallory Square, visit Ernest Hemingway's house and pet the descendants of his six-toed cats, eat at some fantastic restaurants, or just cruise Duval Street for colorful nightlife.

If Key West gets too crowded there are wonderful beaches and places to visit on the other Keys, and Key Largo is the diving capital of Florida.

5. Naples is a great family Florida spring break vacation place

Naples in Southwest Florida on the Gulf Coast doesn't get the spring break crowds that nearby Fort Myers does, which may make it more attractive to visitors seeking a more peaceful destination. TripAdvisor calls it a "polished, culture-packed city fringed by blue bays and sugar-sand beaches."

Packed with upscale shopping, parks, art festivals and museums, Naples also boasts nine miles of pristine beaches where you can enjoy the sun, watch for dolphins from Naples Pier (which shoots out 1,000 feet into the Gulf of Mexico) and get extremely fresh seafood at one of the many beachside restaurants .

But really, there are dozens of Florida beachside cities and towns that make great spring break destinations.

Check out the place named best beach town in the nation , or this one Reader's Digest included in their " 15 Best Beaches in Florida Locals Want to Keep Secret " list, or the other beaches TripAdvisor named the best , or the places Florida students go , or the Florida shores that Dr. Beach recommends , or the list of "hottest" spring break beaches .

Florida has 825 miles of sandy beaches. If you want a beach holiday, it's hard to miss here.

Bahama, Jamaica also under travel advisories

The U.S. Department of State issued a travel advisory for Mexico last year, with various levels of travel warnings including a   Level 2 advisory for Cancún for violent crime. Travel advisories have been issued for the Bahamas and Jamaica as well.

The State Dept. has listed 20 locations around the world under Level 3 advisories, meaning visitors should avoid them and reconsider, and 21 Level 4 places they say Americans should not go to at all.

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20 Hidden Gem Attractions in Florida That Won't Be Too Crowded

Florida's hidden gems include a beer trail, a manatee sanctuary, and caverns.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

places to visit in florida for vacation

Courtesy of Visit Florida

With stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and some of the world's most-visited theme parks , the Sunshine State is one of the most popular destinations in the U.S. When you think about Florida attractions, theme park resorts like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando likely come to mind, as well as other places like the Kennedy Space Center and South Beach in Miami .

If you've been to any of Florida's hot spots , you know just how busy they can be. Here, we've rounded up 20 hidden gem attractions to visit in Florida without the crowds. Get ready to see manatees and alligators in their natural habitats, hike along stunning nature trails, admire Florida's highest waterfall, visit beautiful caverns, and explore one of the country's least-visited national parks. You'll be surprised to see just how many incredible attractions are often overlooked by the average tourist.

1. Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park

Wolfgang Poelzer / Getty Images

About an hour north of Tampa, Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is home to one of the best natural springs in Florida and a great place to spot native flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for whooping cranes, endangered Florida panthers, black bears, bobcats, alligators, and red wolves within the park's 210 acres. You can learn about the magnificent manatees that live here year-round by catching an educational program at the Fish Bowl Underwater Observatory. Afterward, go for a stroll along the 1.1-mile elevated boardwalk trail, take a boat tour, or give birding a try on the 0.75-mile Pepper Creek Trail.

2. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

Sixteen acres of Japanese gardens are Delray Beach's best hidden gem. This beautiful and serene spot features a world-class bonsai collection, trails, ponds filled with koi, and picnic areas, so you can immerse yourself in nature. You can also learn all about Japanese culture through the clubs and workshops, which include lessons in Japanese ink painting, traditional Japanese music, and more.

3. Dry Tortugas National Park

One of the nation's least-visited national parks , Dry Tortugas National Park is well worth visiting if you're traveling to the Florida Keys. Although Dry Tortugas isn't a secret to locals or national park lovers, its remote location means you can explore Fort Jefferson, snorkel among the coral reefs, or dive to a shipwreck without the crowds you might find on the Sunshine State's other popular beaches. It is, after all, only accessible by boat or seaplane. 

4. Devil’s Den Spring

Located in Levy County, Devil's Den Spring is a prehistoric natural spring inside a cave that offers diving and snorkeling in crystal clear, 72-degree waters all year long. Fossils dating back to the Pleistocene Age were found at this incredible site, which got its name from early settlers who thought the steam emanating from the underground space looked like smoke rising from hell.

5. Florida Caverns State Park

Courtesy of Florida State Parks

Did you know that you can take a cave tour in Florida? At Florida Caverns State Park , you can see the stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, and draperies hiding below the surface in Jackson County in the Panhandle. The park also offers trails, swimming, and other activities.

6. Venetian Pool

This Coral Gables gem isn't your average public pool. The Venetian Pool was carved out of a coral rock quarry in the 1920s, and today, it's the largest freshwater pool in the United States (it's emptied and refilled each day). Swimmers can splash in waterfalls and grottos, while palm trees and porticos make this a scenic place to spend a day in the water.

7. Wacissa Springs County Park

Florida Fish and Wildlife / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0

With more than a dozen crystal-clear springs to choose from, this park is a dream for swimmers, snorkelers, and boaters. Wacissa Springs County Park is also an ideal place for wildlife viewing and fishing. If you want to spend some time soaking up the great outdoors, you can camp at the Goose Pasture Group Campground for up to 10 days.

8. Southwest Florida Ale Trail

Courtesy of Riptide Brewing Company

Oregon and Vermont receive a lot of praise as the country's best destinations for beer lovers, but did you know that there's a brewery trail in Florida? The Southwest Florida Ale Trail connects 18 breweries across four Florida counties, and even offers a passport you can have stamped at the participating locations to win prizes. Many of them are just a short distance from the coast, too, making for a great day of beach and beer.

9. Ravine Gardens State Park

Patrick Baehl de Lescure / Getty Images

This unique park in Palatka offers 60 acres of nature to explore. Suspension bridges cross the park's ravines over 30 feet above the ground, and there's a 1.8-mile loop that you can drive, bike, or walk to soak in the incredible views. If you're an avid hiker, you might prefer the moderately difficult trails that go down into the park's ravines.

10. Florida Historic Golf Trail

iShootPhotosLLC / Getty Images

Florida is known around the world as a major golf destination , and the Florida Historic Golf Trail combines great golf courses with sports history. The trail provides a mix of famous spots created by renowned golf course architects along with some lesser-known public links.

11. Rainbow Springs State Park

 CampPhoto / Getty Images 

Located about a 90-minute drive from Tampa or Orlando, Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon has been a popular spot for rest and relaxation for more than 10,000 years. Long before it was a modern-day tourist attraction, Florida's Indigenous Timucua people visited the springs, leaving stone tools, arrowheads, and other relics behind. Today, the 72-degree springs are a great place to take a dip. Expect a calm, beautiful oasis of clear water to swim, snorkel, paddle, and float in all year long. There's also a section dedicated to tubing. Plan your visit for a weekday if you can, as the park will close to the public once it reaches capacity, which it sometimes does during summer weekends and holidays, when Florida's temperatures soar.

12. Myakka River State Park

Stephanie Starr / EyeEm / Getty Images

Myakka River State Park , located on Florida's west coast about 30 minutes from Sarasota, is one of the best places to visit in the state if you want to view alligators in the wild. Check the website to see if boat tours are running (they sometimes stop if water levels are too low), as that's the best way to see them up close. Otherwise, there are tram tours to take you around the park, and you can view the river from a number of hiking trails and lookout points, such as The Birdwalk . Nearby, the Myakka Canopy Walkway , a 100-foot-long treetop trail that's 25 feet above the ground, and its 74-foot observation tower provide epic wetlands views from above.

13. Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge

On the opposite coast near Vero Beach, Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge is a nature lover's dream, with impressive mangrove and salt marsh habitats you can view from one of two three-mile loop trails or the 500-foot accessible observation tower. Opened in 1903 as the country's first-ever national wildlife refuge, the park is home to more than 130 species of birds, including brown pelicans, yellow-crowned night herons, great egrets, ospreys, snowy egrets, and bald eagles, among others. At 5,445 acres, there's more than enough space for everyone to enjoy the peace and quiet natural Florida provides.

14. Kampong National Tropical Botanical Garden

If you're seeking some respite from the South Florida crowds, head to The Kampong National Tropical Botanical Garden in Miami's Coconut Grove neighborhood. At this former estate of botanical enthusiast Dr. David Fairchild, you'll find Kampong Planting Heritage collections that hail from all over Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, Central and South America, and other tropical places. Experience the vivid colors and heady scents on a self-guided stroll, or take a guided tour if you want to learn more about the diverse plants in this beautiful place.

15. Dinosaur World

Dinosaur World

For a quirky and low-key alternative to the other big Florida theme parks, head to Dinosaur World in Plant City, just a 20-minute drive from downtown Tampa or an hour's drive along I-4 from Orlando. Dinosaur lovers of all ages will appreciate the life-size models of a triceratops, stegosaurus, and T. Rex, among other species. You'll also be able to dig for replicas of fossils, explore the park's many boardwalk nature trails, and check out the museum and its life-like animatronic dinosaurs. With two playgrounds, this dog-friendly attraction makes a great pit stop during a Florida road trip, or a fun day trip for the whole family.

16. Caladesi Island State Park

Just north of Clearwater Beach in the Tampa Bay Area, Caladesi Island State Park is accessible by private boat or via a 20-minute ferry ride from Honeymoon Island State Park . Whether you plan to rent kayaks and paddle through the mangrove forest, hike along the island's nature trails, have a seaside picnic, or relax with a good book on a blanket, you can expect to do so in solitude. Keep an eye out for ospreys, egrets, blue herons, bald eagles, dolphins, and manatees, which all call the area home.

17. Bean Point

TriggerPhoto / Getty Images

Bean Point , a remote beach area on the northern tip of Anna Maria Island, is known for its soft white sands and epic views of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge as much as its blissful lack of crowds. One reason for this is the presence of strong currents that make it unsafe for swimming — you won't find a parking lot or restroom facilities here either. But if you're looking for a peaceful spot to lounge near the waves or settle in with a picnic and a great beach read, this is it.

18. Blowing Rocks Preserve

Julie Culy / EyeEm / Getty Images

On the southeastern coast about 30 minutes from West Palm Beach, Blowing Rocks Preserve is one of the best places in Florida to see green, leatherback, and loggerhead sea turtles in their natural habitat. Since the 1980s, it's been where biologists and other scientists have come to assist baby sea turtles each year as they embark on their journey from the nest to the ocean. The preserve gets its name from the "blowing rocks," a natural phenomenon that occurs when the waves are especially rough (during storms or high tide, for example) and the water is pushed up through the limestone with such force it erupts like a geyser, sometimes as high as 50 feet!

19. Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge

PhotoviewPlus / Getty Images

Down by the Everglades on the Naples side, Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge is a wonderful place to get away from it all, especially if you're into birding, kayaking, wildlife photography, or fishing (only permitted at certain times of the year). The refuge is made up of vast mangrove forests, brackish marshlands, and tons of tiny islands, making it an ideal place to spot some of the many animals that live here, including more than 200 species of birds and fish, American alligators and crocodiles, Florida panthers, manatees, river otters, and bottle-nosed dolphins.

20. Falling Waters State Park

FallingWaters_08 / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0

Located on Florida's panhandle about an hour from Tallahassee, Falling Waters State Park is home to Florida’s highest waterfall. The Falling Waters Sink is actually a 100-foot-deep sinkhole with a 74-foot stream that drops into it, forming the waterfall. While the force of the waterfall varies with the amount of rainfall the area receives, it's still an impressive sight year-round, with the water seemingly disappearing into the cave system that lies beneath it. Use the boardwalk trails to reach the viewing points — the upper section is drier, while the lower one lets you have a closer look for the price of a light spray of water.

7 Places To Retire In Florida For Less Than $2,000 A Month

Achieving a comfortable and fulfilling retirement in Florida doesn’t require retirees to break the bank. Here are 7 places that prove so.

  • Discover affordable retirement spots in Florida below $2,000 per month, featuring modern comforts and senior-friendly facilities.
  • Sebring, Ocala, & Rockledge offer serene retirement experiences with activities like bird watching, horse events, and scenic trails.
  • Find your dream retirement destination in Florida without breaking the bank by exploring these 7 fulfilling and budget-friendly cities.

Although Florida is home to some of the most expensive cities , the Sunshine State isn’t all about extravagant vacationing. Beneath its glitz and glamor lies beautiful cities and small towns suitable for an affordable yet fulfilling retirement experience.

The state has numerous places where golden agers can retire for less than $2,000 a month without compromising on modern comforts and essential facilities for seniors. Additionally, some retirement spots in Florida double as great vacation destinations , allowing retirees to enjoy the attractions that are inviting to tourists.

With careful planning and thorough research, retirees can find their dream retirement spots in Florida for less, and this list simplifies the entire process. From serene coastal towns to famous cities, these are the 7 best places to retire in Florida for less than $2,000 a month.

We’ve used Living Cost.org , a reliable site, to ascertain the monthly cost of living of each town or city. The total figure, each below $2,000, includes rent and utilities.

10 Small Towns To Retire In Florida, Ranked By Cost Of Living

7 rockledge, average cost of living with rent: $1,952.

Rockledge is the perfect retirement destination for those seeking a laid-back lifestyle for less than $2,000. Located in Brevard County, Florida, this city boasts exceptional natural beauty due to its proximity to the picturesque Indian River, which offers excellent fishing and relaxation opportunities at the Valencia Dock . However, retirees seeking a tranquil spot to stretch their legs and bird watch visit the Helen and Allan Cruickshank Sanctuary .

This 140-acre bio-diverse sanctuary features a scenic trail traversing through a pine flatwoods habitat on the western side. Besides exploring nature, golden agers can enjoy socializing and golfing at the Rockledge Country Club , known for its verdant historic course. The club also offers a tiered structure membership program, allowing golfers to choose the best value for their respective lifestyles.

Average cost of living with rent: $1,917

Ocala is one of Florida's most affordable cities to retire for less than $2,000 a month due to its relatively low cost of living. With an average cost of living of $1,917 , including rent, retirees can stay in a one-bedroom apartment and pay their utility bills comfortably. Besides its affordability, Ocala boasts a serene scenic environment with numerous recreational opportunities to fill the golden years with excitement, such as going for glass-bottom glass tours at Silver Springs .

The city also hosts year-round horse-related events at the World Equestrian Center , a spectator-friendly venue known for its world-class facilities. Some events are free to attend and feature exhilarating hunter/jumper competitions and exhibitions that last up to 12 weeks.

5 Gainesville

Average cost of living with rent: $1,890.

Apart from having one of the best downtowns in Florida , retirees with a less than $2,000 monthly budget enjoy Gainesville's excellent healthcare facilities and recreational opportunities to keep up with an active lifestyle. The city has a lot to offer when it comes to outdoor adventures, as it is home to various green spaces beckoning nature lovers, such as the free-to-visit UF Bat Houses .

The Sweetwater Wetlands Park is also worth visiting for its beautiful boardwalk trail, best explored during sunset. Seniors also participate in ranger-led tours that delve deeper into the park’s diverse habitats, birds, and animals.

Gainesville's highly-ranked healthcare facilities, such as the UF Health Shands Hospital also add to its appeal. Some of this hospital’s high-performing specialties include orthopedics, cardiology, geriatrics, and urology, catering to the various healthcare needs of retirees.

4 Kissimmee

Average cost of living with rent: $1,860.

Although a popular destination for theme park goers, Kissimmee is one of the best places to retire in Florida . The city's unique blend of modern comforts and lower cost of living allows retirees to enjoy their post-career years without financial strain. While here, seniors also enjoy its proximity to Orlando and entertainment opportunities ideal for every kind of resident, especially in Old Town .

This venue offers free admission and hosts events, such as themed and judged car shows, allowing car enthusiasts to show off their automobiles or meet like-minded folks. It is also one of the best places to enjoy soul-soothing or high-energy music and various oldies radio shows during live events held on different days of the week.

This City Is The Cheapest Place To Retire In Florida

Average cost of living with rent: $1,847.

Retirees seeking a friendly community where they can spend under $2,000 on monthly bills and enjoy a good quality of life find a home in Sebring. Located in south-central Florida in Highlands County, Sebring has a lower cost of living than other bigger cities, allowing residents access to affordable housing options with reasonable rent.

Sebring also promises a fulfilling retirement with a wide range of recreation options for retirees interested in art, nature, and history. For instance, nature lovers discover a fascinating old-growth cypress swamp at the Highlands Hammock State Park . However, art enthusiasts hone their photography, oil painting, and poetry skills at the Highlands Art League .

With a population of 11,901 , this city also tops as one of Florida's lesser crowded retirement destinations for those escaping busier and noisier places.

9 Reasons To Retire In Florida

2 cocoa beach, average cost of living with rent: $1,730.

Cocoa Beach is one of the cheapest beach towns in Florida to retire . Besides its affordability, Cocoa Beach offers stunning beaches and oceanfront parks, a strong sense of community, and year-round outdoor adventures for those seeking an active retirement lifestyle. The Lori Wilson Park offers fishing and hiking opportunities, but park goers on a quest for relaxation can take advantage of the scenic beach to enjoy the breeze and sunshine.

For higher vantage views, dining, and shopping opportunities, retirees head to the Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier , which stretches approximately 800 feet over the dazzling Atlantic Ocean. The pier is the idyllic spot to socialize, enjoy live music, and soak in a breathtaking sunset while sipping a refreshing cocktail.

Average cost of living with rent: $1,607

Palm Bay is the idyllic city to retire to for those seeking a unique blend of natural beauty, warm weather, urban amenities, and affordability. With careful planning and budgeting, golden agers can spend an average of $1,607 , including rent, and still enjoy visiting some of Palm Bay's most treasured destinations. One such destination is the 130-acre Turkey Creek Sanctuary Park , offering a peaceful hiking experience and a breath of fresh air.

The park is home to some of Florida's native plants, such as turkey oaks, which thrive in sandy habitats. While the great outdoors draws nature lovers, art enthusiasts can find inspiration and shop for souvenirs during the Turkey Creek Art Show event. In addition to making friends, show attendees enjoy sampling local fare and shopping for unique handmade crafts.

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Theme Parks

New disney world florida resident deal offers tickets at $59 a day, tickets can be used up to sept. 28.

Christie Zizo , Digital Editor

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – A new multi-day deal allows Florida residents to go to Walt Disney World for $59 a day, and use the tickets through September.

Disney is offering Florida Resident Discover tickets, which allow visitors to buy 3-day or 4-day passes to Disney World for use any time between April 2 and Sept. 28.

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Visitors may purchase a 3-day pass for $219 plus tax, which works out to $73 a day, or a 4-day pass for $235 plus tax, which works out to $59 a day. Visitors are only able to go to one park a day, though they can purchase a Park Hopper option for an extra $40 a day.

Tickets require reservations to get into the parks but can be used for any park on any day where reservations are available. The tickets also don’t have to be used consecutively.

Disney World ticket prices now work on-demand pricing and can be more expensive depending on the time of year and the park. For instance, one-park ticket prices for some days in April start at around $150 for Animal Kingdom and can go as high as $184 for Magic Kingdom.

To qualify for the deal you must be able to verify your Florida residency when you buy your ticket.

For more information, head to the Walt Disney World website.

In the Loop: Theme Park Scoops gives you the latest and greatest info from all the Central Florida parks.

You can listen to every episode of Florida’s Fourth Estate in the media player below:

Copyright 2024 by WKMG ClickOrlando - All rights reserved.

About the Author:

Christie zizo.

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Is it safe to travel to Haiti right now? What travelers should know

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The State Department is urging Americans not to travel to Haiti amid fresh gang violence in the country, which declared a state of emergency last week.

While neither the warnings nor violence are entirely new – Haiti has been a Level 4: Do Not Travel destination in State Department travel advisories since before the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse – a spate of recent high-profile attacks, including an attempt by armed gangs to seize control of the country’s main international airport, has sparked renewed urgency. 

“The current security situation in Haiti is unpredictable and dangerous,” the U.S. Embassy in Haiti said in a security alert issued Sunday. “We are aware that there are few or no commercial options to depart Haiti safely at this time. As they become available, we urge U.S. citizens to take advantage of them. The U.S. Embassy’s ability to assist U.S. citizens is severely limited.” 

The U.S. military stepped in to airlift American personnel “into and out of the Embassy” to augment security, U.S. Southern Command said Sunday in a statement to USA TODAY. Meanwhile, U.S. citizens in Haiti can fill out crisis intake forms and enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program program for updates. 

Here’s what airlines and cruise lines are doing about trips to Haiti:

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Haiti violence: Military airlifts American personnel out of embassy as Haiti spirals into violence

Are there direct flights to Haiti?

Three U.S. airlines typically operate direct flights to Haiti: American, JetBlue and Spirit. However, all three have temporarily suspended service and issued travel waivers for the Caribbean destination.

◾ American Airlines customers with flights scheduled to, through, or from Port-au-Prince (PAP) through March 25 may modify flights without paying change fees. Changes must be made by March 25 with the same origin and destination cities as the original booking.

◾ JetBlue Airways is waiving change and cancellation fees for travelers with flights scheduled to and from Port-au-Prince through April 15. Changes can be made through April 30.

◾ Spirit Airlines is waiving change fees and fare differences on travel to, from, or through Cap Haitien (CAP) and Port-au-Prince through April 15. Travelers should rebook by April 30. After that, the airline said change fees would still be waived, but fare differences may apply.

Do cruise ships still go to Haiti?

Royal Caribbean and its sister line Celebrity Cruises normally sail to Labadee, Haiti , a private destination roughly six hours away from Port-au-Prince by car. However Royal Caribbean is skipping several previously scheduled stops, in coming days.

The following sailings will not go to Labadee.

  • Adventure of the Seas – 3/15 sailing 
  • Mariner of the Seas – 3/16 sailing
  • Explorer of the Seas – 3/17 sailing 
  • Oasis of the Seas – 3/17 sailing 
  • Symphony of the Seas – 3/17 sailing  
  • Grandeur of the Seas – 3/18 sailing 

"The safety and security of our guests, crew, and communities we visit are our top priority," a Royal Caribbean spokesperson said in a statement to USA TODAY. "Our Global Security and Intel Team is closely monitoring the evolving situation in Haiti, and in an abundance of caution, we are temporarily making adjustments to sailings visiting Labadee. We will continue to monitor and reassess calls as needed, and will communicate updates with guests directly."

As recently as Monday, the cruise line had not canceled any sailings to Labadee, but was keeping a close on the situation while noting that it had private security in the area, which was closed to the public.

It doesn’t look like any Celebrity cruises are scheduled there until fall.

Eve Chen is a travel reporter  for USA TODAY based in Atlanta. You can reach her at [email protected].

Orlando Sentinel

Travel | Royal Caribbean shuts down trips to Haiti….

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Subscriber only, travel | royal caribbean shuts down trips to haiti. here’s where its cruise ships are going instead..

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Royal Caribbean announced suspensions of planned stops to Labadee, the cruise line’s private resort on Haiti’s northern shore, in the wake of continued violence and lawlessness in the island nation.

The announcement on Thursday came a day after Royal Caribbean said it would continue stopping at its private resort while “monitoring” for safety threats.

“The safety and security of our guests, crew, and communities we visit are our top priority. Our Global Security and Intel Team is closely monitoring the evolving situation in Haiti, and in an abundance of caution, we are temporarily making adjustments to sailings visiting Labadee,” the cruise line announced.

So far, the suspension is in effect until March 22, the cruise line said. Plans beyond that date will be announced as decisions are made.

“We will continue to monitor and reassess calls as needed, and will communicate updates with guests directly,” the statement said.

The U.S. State Department has maintained a “Do Not Travel” advisory for Haiti since July 27, 2023, due to kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and poor health care infrastructure. “Kidnapping is widespread and victims regularly include U.S. citizens,” the alert states.

The situation took a turn for the worse in early March as gangs attacked government buildings and the National Penitentiary, releasing an estimated 4,000 inmates. This week, Prime Minister Ariel Henry announced his resignation.

Labadee is an enclosed resort, built on a peninsula accessible only to Royal Caribbean guests and employees, that the cruise line has leased since the 1980s. The 260-acre property is located about 130 miles north of Port-au-Prince, where most of the violence is taking place. Travel by car from the capital to the resort takes six to eight hours.

The resort features a roller coaster, fishing and jet-ski areas, cabanas and beach access. Private security protects cruise ship customers when Royal Caribbean’s ships stop there.

Itineraries of six ships that sail from Florida ports will be affected by the suspension, which is scheduled to last through March 22.

Symphony of the Seas , departing Port Everglades on March 18. Labadee stop replaced by a sea day. Falmouth, Jamaica call time adjusted to 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Explorer of the Seas , departing Port Miami on March 17. Labadee stop replaced by Perfect Day at Coco Cay with a call time of 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Oasis of the Seas , departing Port Miami on March 17. Labadee stop replaced by Falmouth, Jamaica, with a call time of 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Grandeur of the Seas , departing Port Miami on March 18. Labadee stop replaced by Perfect Day at CocoCay with a call time of 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Adventure of the Seas , departing Port Canaveral on March 15. Labadee stop replaced by Grand Turk with a call time of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Mariner of the Seas , departing Port Canaveral on March 16. Labadee stop replaced by Nassau, Bahamas with a call time of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This is not the first time Royal Caribbean has suspended stops to Labadee because of unrest in Haiti.

In 2016, the cruise line canceled three stops  after encountering local residents in small boats staging a protest.

Ron Hurtibise covers business and consumer issues for the South Florida Sun Sentinel. He can be reached by phone at 954-356-4071, on Twitter @ronhurtibise or by email at [email protected].

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