If there was ever a state with an infinite record of enjoyable actions and outings, it could be the Sunshine State. I’ve lived right here for a 12 months now, and I’ve barely touched the tip of the iceberg of issues to do in Florida. Each metropolis on this state has one thing distinctive and attention-grabbing to supply.
I’ve been visiting Florida since I used to be a child, and I like every thing about it right here. The sunshine, the seashores, and the experiences are not like another place I’ve visited. It’s the proper vacation spot for households, {couples}, solo vacationers, and adventurers.
The choices for enjoyable issues to do in Florida can appear overwhelming, however, don’t fear, I’ve obtained you coated.
Finest Issues To Do in Florida
When planning your subsequent journey to Florida, these are the highest issues so as to add to your itinerary:
1. Trip an Airboat within the Everglades
Each time I’ve associates or household come to go to for the primary time, one of many important actions I all the time recommend doing collectively is taking an airboat tour within the Everglades. It’s such a blast skimming throughout the shallow waters at pace whereas catching sight of a few of Florida’s most well-known wildlife.
Probably the most well-known Everglades are in southern Florida, however many individuals won’t know that there are Everglades in central Florida too. Whichever vacation spot you select, it’s a assure that you just’ll make a lifetime reminiscence.
Discover out extra about your airboat tour right here.
2. Swim in Satan’s Den
One among Florida’s most lovely hidden gems is Satan’s Den. Though the identify sounds a little bit sinister, this magical place is actually one in all my favourite locations in the whole state.
This underground spring is 120 toes throughout and has a depth of 54 toes. The beautiful pool is a vacation spot that entices divers, snorkelers, and campers from internationally. What’s cool about this place particularly is that it’s one in all North America’s most prehistoric springs.
In case you’re going to do something throughout your journey, be sure you go to Satan’s Den throughout your Florida keep. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Go to the Kennedy Area Middle
What’s cooler than visiting the very spot the place rockets launch into area? Probably the most distinctive issues to do in Florida is a go to to the Kennedy Area Middle – it’s completely unbelievable.
Sprawling over 144,000 acres, the Kennedy Area Middle options dozens of points of interest, 3D simulators, interactive displays, and even the chance to fulfill an astronaut. To make your journey much more memorable, you’ll be able to plan a go to round one of many scheduled launches.
Keep in Orlando and e book a personal switch so that you don’t have to fret about driving.
4. Go to The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Artwork
Positioned in Sarasota, Florida, The Ringling is a formidable artwork museum that may’t be missed. Owned by the well-known circus proprietor John Ringling and his spouse Mable, it was named the official State Artwork Museum of Florida.
Effectively referred to as one of many prime issues to do in Florida, The Ringling has an intensive assortment of artwork and is residence to the Ca’ d’Zan – the mansion that served as a part-time residence for The Ringlings.
You’ll be able to simply spend a full day right here, touring the museum, and the mansion, and strolling across the gardens. Discover instructions right here.
5. Expertise the Magic of Disney World
A visit to Florida wouldn’t be full and not using a journey to Disney World. Irrespective of what number of instances I am going, it’s all the time superb – and I nonetheless haven’t ridden all the rides, there are that many!
Disney World is made up of 4 separate parks – Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and Epcot. Each gives totally different themes and rides, they usually’re all superior. Magic Kingdom is my private favourite.
Probably the most primary ticket begins at $109, however you’ll seemingly need to spend at the very least 4 days at Disney World to completely expertise the entire parks and points of interest.
6. Take a Glass Backside Boat within the Crystal River Protect
My important aim once I moved to Florida was to see a manatee, and locals instructed me that going to the Crystal River Protect State Park in west Florida was my finest wager. It was a assure that I might see them (plural!) – it is called the “Manatee Capital of the World, in any case.
One of the best ways to see Crystal River and these magnificent animals is by taking a glass-bottom boat tour or renting a transparent kayak. You may also swim and snorkel with them as nicely, and I extremely advocate doing so in case you get the prospect – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime expertise.
Within the winter, there may be upwards of 500 manatees within the river; they’re majestic creatures to see. E book your Crystal River tour right here.
7. Step Again in Time within the Sunken Gardens
In St. Petersburg, Florida, you’ll discover one of many oldest gardens within the area; residence to hundreds of tropical crops, bushes, and flowers. What’s cool concerning the Sunken Gardens is that it’s actually “sunken” as a result of it’s under sea stage.
Take a stroll within the beautiful 4-acre park that’s been round for greater than 100 years. There are beautiful waterfalls, tropical birds, and even a flock of flamingos. I may keep in these gardens all day – it’s so peaceable.
Admission is $15 for adults and $6 for kids. You will discover instructions to the Sunken Gardens right here.
8. Discover a Fort and Snorkel at Dry Tortugas Nationwide Park
Accessable solely by seaplane or boat, Dry Tortugas Nationwide Park is a 100-square mile park comprising seven small islands and gin-clear open water. Dwelling of the spectacular Fort Jefferson, some lovely coral reefs and energetic marine life, this park is the proper location for out of doors fanatics.
Plan a tenting journey, a seaplane constitution, or just discover the realm by swimming; the varied Dry Tortugas Nationwide Park is unquestionably a spot to understand pure magnificence each above and under the water and is an epic spot for snorkeling and diving.
Discover out extra about Nationwide Park excursions and tickets right here.
9. Sunbathe and Swim at Clearwater Seaside
The most effective free issues to do in Florida is to go to the seashore. The crystal clear waters and smooth white sands of Clearwater Seaside supply that idyllic, picture-perfect setting you’re in search of.
The calm and heat waters of Clearwater Seaside make it excellent for swimming, and the sand is so smooth it appears like powdered sugar. There’s additionally a walkable beachfront with eating places, outlets, and a pier that holds nightly festivities.
Whilst you’re in Clearwater Seaside, e book your self a dolphin-watching tour out of Clearwater Bay.
10. Stroll Across the Oldest Metropolis within the Nation
Many individuals don’t know that St. Augustine, Florida is the oldest metropolis within the nation – and it’s a metropolis that wants to be in your bucket record. The historical past and structure are superbly preserved, and there’s even an enormous outdated fort that sits on the river financial institution.
I like wandering the outdated streets of St. Augustine and popping into totally different outlets, attempting new eating places, and studying concerning the historical past of the city. The outdated fort is now a nationwide monument referred to as Castillo de San Marcos, and it’s nicely value touring the grounds.
One of the best ways to discover St. Augustine is to take the trolley hop-on hop-off tour. An cute trolley with a educated information takes you round to essentially the most well-known points of interest and museum areas, and also you’re free to hop off to discover and hop again on everytime you’d like!
11. Go to Butterfly World
Who wouldn’t need to go to the most important butterfly park on the planet? Butterfly World is positioned in Coconut Creek, and it’s among the finest issues to do in Florida. It’s been open since 1988 and spans three acres.
It’s residence to over 20,000 reside butterflies you could hang around with as you stroll by means of the botanical gardens. There’s additionally an aviary with tropical birds and an on-site analysis middle.
A day go is $32.50 for adults and $22.50 for kids. Discover instructions to Butterfly World right here.
12. Eat Key Lime Pie in Key West
There’s actually no place like Key West; it’s some of the lovely locations to go to in Florida. You’ll be able to drive over 40 bridges to make it to the very southernmost level of the Keys, and a slice of genuine Key Lime pie is an absolute should.
Stroll alongside Duval Road which runs from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean. The road is lined with outlets, bars, and loads of eating places serving up this scrumptious deal with, however essentially the most well-known slice is arguably the one from the Key Lime Pie Bakery.
Get instructions to the Key Lime Pie Bakery right here.
13. Head to the Daytona Worldwide Speedway
Daytona Seaside is a brilliant enjoyable place to go to, basically, however, one of many largest attracts to town is the well-known Daytona Worldwide Speedway. Even in case you’re not a NASCAR fan, this race observe facility is undoubtedly spectacular.
You’ll be able to take a 2.5-hour speedway tour or plan your journey round one of many races. In case you’re fortunate, you’ll be able to attempt to get a ticket to the famend Daytona 500. E book your ticket right here.
SEE ALSO: 25 Enjoyable Issues To Do in Daytona Seaside (By a Native)
14. Seize a Pint on the Palace Saloon
Just a little-known Florida attraction is the Palace Saloon on Amelia Island. Each time I am going to Amelia Island, I all the time be sure to make a cease right here – it’s part of historical past!
Open since 1903, the Palace Saloon is Florida’s oldest bar. Throughout Prohibition, they had been in a position to keep open by promoting ice cream, particular wines, and gasoline. The structure is superb, and it’s an superior place to seize a drink.
Right here’s how one can discover your manner to the Palace Saloon.
15. Have Enjoyable at LEGOLAND
Florida has tons of theme parks, however LEGOLAND is among the coolest. This park is ideal for all ages as a result of it has three separate parks – the theme park, the water park, and the world’s first Peppa Pig-themed park.
The theme park has a lot of enjoyable rides which are all centered round LEGO. Children will like it, and it’s positive to move adults again to their youthful years too. The water park boasts slides, a lazy river, and different play buildings for each age.
Household passes that additionally embody a lodge keep begin at simply $93 per individual. Discover instructions to LEGOLAND right here.
16. Expertise The Dali Museum
Salvador Dali was an unbelievable artist, and The Dali Museum homes a few of his most iconic artistic endeavors. Positioned in St. Petersburg, it’s some of the distinctive issues to do in Florida.
The Dali Museum options the most important assortment of the artist’s work, exterior of Europe, and the Avant backyard is beautiful. Make time to take a look at the Dali Dome for an immersive 360-degree expertise that envelops you in Salvador Dali’s artwork.
Tickets are $29 for adults, $12 for teens, and free for kids underneath 5. Discover instructions to The Dali Museum right here.
17. Admire the Wynwood Partitions
Positioned in Miami, the Wynwood Partitions is town’s unique avenue artwork museum. This mind-blowing museum options large avenue artwork murals from a few of the most well-known artists on the planet.
After I first visited, I significantly couldn’t imagine what I used to be seeing. You’re surrounded by shiny and daring colours, and every mural is extra spectacular than the following. It’s excellent for these excellent IG photographs.
Skip the museum line and buy your skip-the-line ticket right here.
18. Cheer from the Stands at a Sporting Occasion
Sports activities fanatics will completely love touring round Florida as a result of almost each main metropolis has a sporting staff of some type. Whether or not you’re into skilled or faculty, soccer or basketball – you’ll have the ability to discover a sporting occasion to attend all through the whole 12 months.
Throughout soccer season, you’ll be able to go to a Jacksonville Jaguars, Miami Dolphins, or Tampa Bay Buccaneers recreation. Basketball followers can head to Miami for a Warmth recreation or Orlando for a Magic recreation. And through baseball season, we’ve obtained the Miami Marlins and Tampa Bay Rays.
Preserve an eye fixed out for ticket offers, particular occasions, and different low cost days to attain nice seats at your favourite sporting occasion.
19. Go Tubing at Ginnie Springs
When in search of issues to do in Florida, something involving water is all the time on the prime of my record. Ginnie Springs is a kind of watering holes that’s so crystal clear, that it seems like one thing straight out of a film.
You’ll be able to spend the weekend at Ginnie Springs, tenting with associates or household, and cruise down the stainless waters of the Sante Fe River. The summer season months can develop into tremendous busy, so e book your reservations prematurely.
Apart from tubing, you may also merely swim within the beautiful waters, hire snorkeling gear, canoe, kayak, or paddleboard. It’s the last word out of doors water journey spot. Discover instructions to Ginnie Springs right here.
20. Discover Serenity at Bok Tower Gardens
There’s no scarcity of beautiful nature landscapes to discover round Florida – and Bok Tower Gardens is definitely one in all them. Positioned in Lake Wales, Florida, it’s completely value including a go to to your record of locations to go to in Florida.
The contemplative backyard and hen sanctuary sprawls over 250 acres with bushes, flowers, and artwork installations across the property. There’s additionally a formidable 205-foot “Singing Tower” with carillon bells, climbing trails, and a customer middle.
Admission is $20 for adults, $10 for kids ages 6-17, and free for kids 5 and underneath. Canines are $10. Discover instructions to the Bok Tower Gardens right here.
21. Take a look at the Sponge Docks at Tarpon Springs
Tarpon Springs, simply exterior of Tampa, is called the “sponge capital of the world,” and the docks are definitely a sight to see. There’s a wealthy Greek heritage within the city, so there are many tasty eating places to check out throughout your go to as nicely.
This small fishing village began harvesting sponges again within the Eighties, and in its heyday, there have been greater than 500 Greek divers with 50 boats working within the space. The docks are nonetheless energetic at this time, and you may see the boats drying out their harvested sponges. It’s a extremely distinctive place to go to in Florida.
After you’ve checked out the docks, head to Mykonos for an genuine Greek meal. Discover instructions to Tarpon Springs right here.
22. Discover Journey at Busch Gardens
Additionally positioned in Tampa is the world-famous Busch Gardens. It’s an ideal theme park in Florida for households and likewise makes for a enjoyable date day choice.
The African-themed journey park has over 330 acres of thrilling amusement park rides, every day reveals, and a lot extra. After spending the day on a few of the finest rollercoasters within the state, seize a chew at one of many many eateries within the park.
Out of all of the theme parks in Florida, that is by far some of the distinctive because of its theme. E book your Busch Gardens ticket right here.
23. Swim in The Venetian Pool
Often called one of many prime issues to do in Florida, The Venetian Pool in Coral Gables, simply exterior of Miami, is sort of the attraction. With over 820,000 gallons of water, it’s the largest freshwater pool in the US.
The 4-acre pool has gone by means of some modifications because it was in-built 1924 however has maintained its spot as a well-liked vacation spot for locals and vacationers alike. There’s a waterfall, children’ pool, numerous bridges, and small grottos. There are additionally loads of cafes to seize a snack from and refuel.
Admission costs differ all year long starting from $5.50 to $21, relying on the season and your residency. Discover instructions to The Venetian Pool right here.
24. See Wildlife at Ichetucknee River State Park
Simply 80 miles southwest of Jacksonville in Fort White is the completely wonderful Ichetucknee River State Park. It’s one other nature spot on the record and is simply as breathtakingly lovely because the others.
Eight main springs kind the 6-mile Ichetucknee River, and it’s teeming with wildlife comparable to turtles, geese, beavers, and lots of different critters. You’ll be able to tube alongside the river throughout the hotter months or hike on one of many three trails whereas taking in all the wonder round you.
In case you’re into birdwatching, this state park is a part of the Nice Florida Birding Path. Discover instructions to the Ichetucknee River State Park right here.
25. Get a Studying from a Medium in Cassadaga
Roughly 50 miles from Orlando is a small city referred to as Cassadaga, Florida, which is known for one factor – many of the residents declare they will talk with the deceased. Yep, the whole city is filled with mediums.
Often called the “Psychic Capital of the World,” Cassadaga is residence to the Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp, the place they maintain church providers, occasions, and medium readings. It’s open to the general public, nonetheless, appointments are inspired for readings with a medium.
So, in case you really feel such as you need to get in contact with any misplaced family members, this place is unquestionably the very best place to do it. Get instructions to Cassadaga right here.
Fast Journey Itineraries For Florida
There’s so much to do and see in Florida, so it may be exhausting to know the place to begin in relation to constructing an itinerary. Listed here are a number of recommendations on how one can spend your time in The Sunshine State.
1 Day in Florida Itinerary
In case you solely have sooner or later to spend in Florida, your finest wager might be to hang around in Miami or Orlando. Miami is residence to lovely seashores, vibrant nightlife, and the Wynwood Partitions. Plus, there are tons of nice eating places and bars – making it preferrred for a complete day. Take a look at the MIAM Cafe, Coyo Taco, or Loopy Poke, all positioned close to the partitions.
Orlando is one other nice choice as a result of you’ll be able to choose a theme park to spend hours on thrill rides, seeing reveals, and making reminiscences.
2-3 Days in Florida Itinerary
Two to a few days in Florida means that you can do a bit extra. I’d advocate heading as much as St. Augustine to discover the oldest metropolis within the nation for sooner or later, earlier than taking a drive to Gainesville. From there, you’ll be able to discover the beautiful Satan’s Den and swim within the crystal-clear waters.
In your ultimate day, you’ll be able to drive as much as Jacksonville and head to Amelia Island. Right here, you’ll be able to get pleasure from a scrumptious cocktail on the oldest bar in Florida, the Palace Saloon. Amelia Island additionally has some unbelievable seashores for sunbathing and swimming. Connections are straightforward, and you may fly straight out of Jacksonville.
1 Week in Florida Itinerary
In case you’re fortunate sufficient to have a whole week in Florida, the probabilities and choices are nearly infinite! You might spend a whole week almost anyplace, and also you’d have an absolute blast.
Fly into Orlando and keep at Walt Disney World Resort and discover the 4 theme parks over 4 days. Then, drive west to Clearwater Seaside to benefit from the pristine seashores and to go to the Sunken Gardens. Lastly, drive north to Sarasota and take a look at the awe-inspiring artwork at The Dali Museum.
Alternatively, I’d advocate flying into Miami and having fun with the entire artwork and tradition town has to supply. Go to the Wynwood Partitions, try the nightlife in South Seaside, and swim in The Venetian Pool. After a few days in Miami, hire a automotive and drive 4 hours to the southernmost level within the United States in Key West. Don’t overlook to have a slice of Key Lime pie!
Getting To Florida
Attending to Florida is sort of straightforward, regardless of the place you’re coming from. Each single main metropolis within the state has a world airport (or two), so reserving a flight is easy.
When you’ve arrived, your finest wager could be to hire your personal automotive, so you may get round by yourself time. Nonetheless, if that doesn’t curiosity you, or doesn’t suit your price range, there are many different choices.
The Miami, Tampa, and Orlando areas have a unbelievable rail system that will help you get round. In any other case, you’ll be able to take public transportation, name an Uber, or prepare for personal transfers to get you to the place that you must go.
Issues To Do in Florida: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Florida:
Florida is known for its sunny climate, unbelievable seashores, and unbelievable tradition.
One of the best time to go to Florida is dependent upon your pursuits and trip targets. The summer season is sizzling, and the seashores are packed. The winter is cooler with fewer crowds. And the shoulder seasons supply delicate temperatures, with fewer crowds.
Sure! Florida is completely value visiting. Each area and metropolis has one thing totally different and thrilling to supply.
It is best to spend a minimal of 4-5 days in Florida, however may simply spend as much as two weeks exploring the state.
Total, sure, Florida is a really secure state. After all, in each main metropolis, it’s vital to know which areas to keep away from. So, do your analysis beforehand and apply widespread sense when touring.
The most well-liked factor to do in Florida is benefit from the wonderful seashores and ideal sunny climate. Theme parks are additionally notably standard.
One of the best seashore, in my view, is in Sarasota on Siesta Key. The water is obvious and the sand is unbelievably smooth.
It’s all about contemporary seafood in Florida. In case you’re in Miami, Cuban meals is sort of standard, and Key Lime pie is a should.
Probably the most visited locations in Florida are Orlando and Miami.
There are such a lot of fairly locations in Florida; the Florida Keys are arguably essentially the most lovely.
In southern Florida, you’ll be able to swim year-round. In northern Florida, the very best swimming months are Might by means of October.
Usually, sure, it’s secure to swim within the ocean in Florida. Nonetheless, it’s vital to maintain an eye fixed out for rip present warnings. There may be threat of sharks in Florida too.
In Closing
Determining enjoyable issues to do in Florida may be difficult when there are such a lot of locations to go to and points of interest to see. I by no means get bored with exploring my state and appear to seek out one thing new each time I am going out and discover.
Irrespective of in case you’re into thrilling experiences and an adrenaline rush, or one thing extra enjoyable and quiet – Florida has one thing to fit your trip wants.
