If there was ever a state with an limitless checklist of enjoyable actions and outings, it will 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 in contrast to every other 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 bought you lined.
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. Journey an Airboat within the Everglades
At any time when I’ve mates or household come to go to for the primary time, one of many most important actions I at all times 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 may not know that there are Everglades in central Florida too. Whichever vacation spot you select, it’s a assure that you simply’ll make a lifetime reminiscence.
Discover out extra about your airboat tour right here.
2. Swim in Satan’s Den
One in every of Florida’s most stunning hidden gems is Satan’s Den. Though the title sounds somewhat sinister, this magical place is really one among my favourite locations in your complete state.
This underground spring is 120 ft throughout and has a depth of 54 ft. The beautiful pool is a vacation spot that entices divers, snorkelers, and campers from the world over. What’s cool about this place specifically is that it’s one among North America’s most prehistoric springs.
Should 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 Heart
What’s cooler than visiting the very spot the place rockets launch into area? One of the crucial distinctive issues to do in Florida is a go to to the Kennedy Area Heart – it’s completely unbelievable.
Sprawling over 144,000 acres, the Kennedy Area Heart options dozens of sights, 3D simulators, interactive displays, and even the chance to satisfy 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 non-public switch so that you don’t have to fret about driving.
4. Go to The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Artwork
Situated 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.
Properly often known as one of many high issues to do in Florida, The Ringling has an in depth assortment of artwork and is house to the Ca’ d’Zan – the mansion that served as a part-time residence for The Ringlings.
You possibly can 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 with no journey to Disney World. Irrespective of what number of occasions I’m going, it’s at all times wonderful – 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 completely different themes and rides, and so they’re all superior. Magic Kingdom is my private favourite.
Probably the most primary ticket begins at $109, however you’ll doubtless need to spend at the least 4 days at Disney World to completely expertise the entire parks and sights.
6. Take a Glass Backside Boat within the Crystal River Protect
My most important objective after I moved to Florida was to see a manatee, and locals advised me that going to the Crystal River Protect State Park in west Florida was my finest guess. It was a assure that I might see them (plural!) – it is called the “Manatee Capital of the World, in spite of everything.
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 too can swim and snorkel with them as nicely, and I extremely suggest doing so if you happen to get the possibility – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime expertise.
Within the winter, there might 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; house to 1000’s of tropical vegetation, timber, and flowers. What’s cool concerning the Sunken Gardens is that it’s actually “sunken” as a result of it’s beneath sea degree.
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 youngsters. Yow 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. Residence of the spectacular Fort Jefferson, some stunning coral reefs and energetic marine life, this park is the proper location for outside fanatics.
Plan a tenting journey, a seaplane constitution, or just discover the realm by swimming; the varied Dry Tortugas Nationwide Park is certainly a spot to understand pure magnificence each above and beneath 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 Seashore
Probably the greatest free issues to do in Florida is to go to the seaside. The crystal clear waters and smooth white sands of Clearwater Seashore supply that idyllic, picture-perfect setting you’re in search of.
The calm and heat waters of Clearwater Seashore make it excellent for swimming, and the sand is so smooth it seems like powdered sugar. There’s additionally a walkable beachfront with eating places, retailers, and a pier that holds nightly festivities.
Whilst you’re in Clearwater Seashore, 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 checklist. The historical past and structure are fantastically preserved, and there’s even a large outdated fort that sits on the river financial institution.
I like wandering the outdated streets of St. Augustine and popping into completely different retailers, attempting new eating places, and studying concerning the historical past of the city. The outdated fort is now a nationwide monument known as Castillo de San Marcos, and it’s nicely price touring the grounds.
One of the best ways to discover St. Augustine is to take the trolley hop-on hop-off tour. An lovely trolley with a educated information takes you round to essentially the most well-known sights 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 biggest butterfly park on this 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 house to over 20,000 reside butterflies that 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 youngsters. Discover instructions to Butterfly World right here.
12. Eat Key Lime Pie in Key West
There’s really no place like Key West; it’s some of the stunning locations to go to in Florida. You possibly can 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 retailers, 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 Seashore is an excellent enjoyable place to go to, on the whole, however, one of many greatest attracts to town is the well-known Daytona Worldwide Speedway. Even if you happen to’re not a NASCAR fan, this race observe facility is undoubtedly spectacular.
You possibly can take a 2.5-hour speedway tour or plan your journey round one of many races. Should you’re fortunate, you’ll be able to try to get a ticket to the famend Daytona 500. E book your ticket right here.
SEE ALSO: 25 Enjoyable Issues To Do in Daytona Seashore (By a Native)
14. Seize a Pint on the Palace Saloon
A bit of-known Florida attraction is the Palace Saloon on Amelia Island. Each time I’m going to Amelia Island, I at all times 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 wonderful, and it’s an superior place to seize a drink.
Right here’s the right way to discover your manner to the Palace Saloon.
15. Have Enjoyable at LEGOLAND
Florida has tons of theme parks, however LEGOLAND is likely one of 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 plenty of enjoyable rides which can be all centered round LEGO. Youngsters will like it, and it’s certain 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 resort keep begin at simply $93 per particular person. 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 artworks. Situated in St. Petersburg, it’s some of the distinctive issues to do in Florida.
The Dali Museum options the biggest 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 youngsters underneath 5. Discover instructions to The Dali Museum right here.
17. Admire the Wynwood Partitions
Situated in Miami, the Wynwood Partitions is town’s unique avenue artwork museum. This mind-blowing museum options huge avenue artwork murals from a few of the most well-known artists on this planet.
Once I first visited, I severely couldn’t imagine what I used to be seeing. You’re surrounded by brilliant and daring colours, and every mural is extra spectacular than the subsequent. It’s excellent for these excellent IG pictures.
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 practically each main metropolis has a sporting staff of some kind. Whether or not you’re into skilled or school, soccer or basketball – you’ll be capable of discover a sporting occasion to attend all through your complete 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 bought the Miami Marlins and Tampa Bay Rays.
Maintain a watch 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 at all times on the high of my checklist. Ginnie Springs is a type of watering holes that’s so crystal clear, that it seems to be like one thing straight out of a film.
You possibly can spend the weekend at Ginnie Springs, tenting with mates 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, lease snorkeling gear, canoe, kayak, or paddleboard. It’s the last word outside 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 actually one among them. Situated in Lake Wales, Florida, it’s completely price including a go to to your checklist of locations to go to in Florida.
The contemplative backyard and fowl sanctuary sprawls over 250 acres with timber, flowers, and artwork installations across the property. There’s additionally a formidable 205-foot “Singing Tower” with carillon bells, mountaineering trails, and a customer middle.
Admission is $20 for adults, $10 for youngsters ages 6-17, and free for youngsters 5 and underneath. Canine are $10. Discover instructions to the Bok Tower Gardens right here.
21. Try the Sponge Docks at Tarpon Springs
Tarpon Springs, simply exterior of Tampa, is called the “sponge capital of the world,” and the docks are actually 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 Eighteen 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 immediately, and you may see the boats drying out their harvested sponges. It’s a very 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 excellent theme park in Florida for households and in addition makes for a enjoyable date day choice.
The African-themed journey park has over 330 acres of thrilling amusement park rides, each day reveals, and a lot extra. After spending the day on a few of the finest rollercoasters within the state, seize a chunk 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 on account of its theme. E book your Busch Gardens ticket right here.
23. Swim in The Venetian Pool
Referred to as one of many high issues to do in Florida, The Venetian Pool in Coral Gables, simply exterior of Miami, is kind of the attraction. With over 820,000 gallons of water, it’s the largest freshwater pool in the USA.
The 4-acre pool has gone by means of some modifications because it was inbuilt 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 range 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 superb Ichetucknee River State Park. It’s one other nature spot on the checklist and is simply as breathtakingly stunning 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 possibly can tube alongside the river in the course of the hotter months or hike on one of many three trails whereas taking in all the wonder round you.
Should 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 known as Cassadaga, Florida, which is known for one factor – a lot of the residents declare they will talk with the deceased. Yep, your complete city is stuffed with mediums.
Referred to as the “Psychic Capital of the World,” Cassadaga is house to the Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp, the place they maintain church companies, occasions, and medium readings. It’s open to the general public, nonetheless, appointments are inspired for readings with a medium.
So, if you happen to really feel such as you need to get in contact with any misplaced family members, this place is certainly the most effective place to do it. Get instructions to Cassadaga right here.
Fast Journey Itineraries For Florida
There’s rather a lot to do and see in Florida, so it may be arduous to know the place to begin with regards to constructing an itinerary. Listed below are just a few recommendations on the right way to spend your time in The Sunshine State.
1 Day in Florida Itinerary
Should you solely have at some point to spend in Florida, your finest guess might be to hang around in Miami or Orlando. Miami is house to stunning seashores, vibrant nightlife, and the Wynwood Partitions. Plus, there are tons of nice eating places and bars – making it ideally suited for an entire day. Try 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 recollections.
2-3 Days in Florida Itinerary
Two to a few days in Florida permits you to do a bit extra. I’d suggest heading as much as St. Augustine to discover the oldest metropolis within the nation for at some point, 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 last day, you’ll be able to drive as much as Jacksonville and head to Amelia Island. Right here, you’ll be able to take pleasure in a scrumptious cocktail on the oldest bar in Florida, the Palace Saloon. Amelia Island additionally has some implausible seashores for sunbathing and swimming. Connections are simple, and you may fly straight out of Jacksonville.
1 Week in Florida Itinerary
Should you’re fortunate sufficient to have a complete week in Florida, the chances and choices are virtually limitless! You may spend a complete week practically wherever, 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 Seashore 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 suggest 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 Seashore, and swim in The Venetian Pool. After a few days in Miami, lease 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 kind of simple, regardless of the place you’re coming from. Each single main metropolis within the state has a global airport (or two), so reserving a flight is easy.
When you’ve arrived, your finest guess could be to lease your personal automotive, so you will get round by yourself time. Nevertheless, if that doesn’t curiosity you, or doesn’t suit your funds, there are many different choices.
The Miami, Tampa, and Orlando areas have a implausible rail system that will help you get round. In any other case, you’ll be able to take public transportation, name an Uber, or organize for personal transfers to get you to the place you could go.
Issues To Do in Florida: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Florida:
Florida is known for its sunny climate, implausible seashores, and unbelievable tradition.
The most effective time to go to Florida relies on 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 gentle temperatures, with fewer crowds.
Sure! Florida is completely price visiting. Each area and metropolis has one thing completely different and thrilling to supply.
It’s best to spend a minimal of 4-5 days in Florida, however may simply spend as much as two weeks exploring the state.
General, sure, Florida is a really protected state. In fact, 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 superb seashores and excellent sunny climate. Theme parks are additionally significantly widespread.
The most effective seaside, in my view, is in Sarasota on Siesta Key. The water is evident and the sand is unbelievably smooth.
It’s all about contemporary seafood in Florida. Should you’re in Miami, Cuban meals is kind of widespread, 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 stunning.
In southern Florida, you’ll be able to swim year-round. In northern Florida, the most effective swimming months are Might by means of October.
Usually, sure, it’s protected to swim within the ocean in Florida. Nevertheless, it’s vital to maintain a watch out for rip present warnings. There may be danger of sharks in Florida too.
In Closing
Determining enjoyable issues to do in Florida might be difficult when there are such a lot of locations to go to and sights to see. I by no means get bored with exploring my state and appear to search out one thing new each time I’m going out and discover.
Irrespective of if you happen to’re into thrilling experiences and an adrenaline rush, or one thing extra stress-free and quiet – Florida has one thing to fit your trip wants.
