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 yr 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 fascinating to supply.
I’ve been visiting Florida since I used to be a child, and I like every part 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 bought 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. Experience an Airboat within the Everglades
Every time I’ve mates or household come to go to for the primary time, one of many fundamental 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 velocity whereas catching sight of a few of Florida’s most well-known wildlife.
Essentially 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 simply’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 stunning hidden gems is Satan’s Den. Though the title sounds a little bit sinister, this magical place is really one in all my favourite locations in the whole state.
This underground spring is 120 ft throughout and has a depth of 54 ft. The attractive pool is a vacation spot that entices divers, snorkelers, and campers from internationally. What’s cool about this place specifically is that it’s one in all North America’s most prehistoric springs.
Should you’re going to do something throughout your journey, be sure to 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 house? Some of the distinctive issues to do in Florida is a go to to the Kennedy Area Middle – it’s completely unimaginable.
Sprawling over 144,000 acres, the Kennedy Area Middle options dozens of sights, 3D simulators, interactive displays, and even the chance to fulfill an astronaut. To make your journey much more memorable, you possibly can 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 powerful 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 high issues to do in Florida, The Ringling has an intensive assortment of artwork and is house to the Ca’ d’Zan – the mansion that served as a part-time residence for The Ringlings.
You may 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 out a journey to Disney World. Irrespective of what number of instances I’m going, it’s at all times 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 affords totally different themes and rides, and so they’re all superior. Magic Kingdom is my private favourite.
Essentially the most fundamental ticket begins at $109, however you’ll probably wish to spend not less than 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 fundamental objective after I moved to Florida was to see a manatee, and locals informed me that going to the Crystal River Protect State Park in west Florida was my greatest 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 may as well swim and snorkel with them as nicely, and I extremely advocate doing so should you get the possibility – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime expertise.
Within the winter, there could be upwards of 500 manatees within the river; they’re majestic creatures to see. Ebook 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, bushes, and flowers. What’s cool concerning the Sunken Gardens is that it’s actually “sunken” as a result of it’s under sea degree.
Take a stroll within the attractive 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. 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. House of the spectacular Fort Jefferson, some stunning coral reefs and lively marine life, this park is the proper location for outside lovers.
Plan a tenting journey, a seaplane constitution, or just discover the realm by swimming; the various 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 Seashore
The most effective free issues to do in Florida is to move to the seaside. The crystal clear waters and smooth white sands of Clearwater Seashore supply that idyllic, picture-perfect setting you’re searching for.
The calm and heat waters of Clearwater Seashore make it good for swimming, and the sand is so smooth it appears like powdered sugar. There’s additionally a walkable beachfront with eating places, retailers, and a pier that holds nightly festivities.
When 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 an enormous previous fort that sits on the river financial institution.
I like wandering the previous streets of St. Augustine and popping into totally different retailers, attempting new eating places, and studying concerning the historical past of the city. The previous 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 lovable trolley with a educated information takes you round to probably 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 wish to go to the biggest butterfly park on this planet? Butterfly World is positioned in Coconut Creek, and it’s the most effective 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 would be able to 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 move 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 one of the stunning locations to go to in Florida. You may 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 Avenue 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 probably 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 a brilliant enjoyable place to go to, normally, however, one of many greatest attracts to the town is the well-known Daytona Worldwide Speedway. Even should you’re not a NASCAR fan, this race observe facility is undoubtedly spectacular.
You may take a 2.5-hour speedway tour or plan your journey round one of many races. Should you’re fortunate, you possibly can try to get a ticket to the famend Daytona 500. Ebook 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 little bit-known Florida attraction is the Palace Saloon on Amelia Island. Each time I’m going to Amelia Island, I at all times ensure that 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 capable of 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 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 a lot of enjoyable rides which can be all centered round LEGO. Youngsters 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 embrace a resort keep begin at simply $93 per individual. Discover instructions to LEGOLAND right here.
16. Expertise The Dali Museum
Salvador Dali was an unimaginable artist, and The Dali Museum homes a few of his most iconic artistic endeavors. Situated in St. Petersburg, it’s one 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 attractive. 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 beneath 5. Discover instructions to The Dali Museum right here.
17. Admire the Wynwood Partitions
Situated in Miami, the Wynwood Partitions is the town’s authentic road artwork museum. This mind-blowing museum options huge road artwork murals from a few of the most well-known artists on this planet.
After I first visited, I significantly 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 following. It’s good for these good 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 lovers will completely love touring round Florida as a result of practically each main metropolis has a sporting group of some kind. 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 yr.
Throughout soccer season, you possibly can 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 searching for 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 like one thing straight out of a film.
You may 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 turn out to be tremendous busy, so e-book your reservations upfront.
Apart from tubing, you may as well merely swim within the beautiful waters, hire snorkeling gear, canoe, kayak, or paddleboard. It’s the final word outside water journey spot. Discover instructions to Ginnie Springs right here.
20. Discover Serenity at Bok Tower Gardens
There’s no scarcity of attractive nature landscapes to discover round Florida – and Bok Tower Gardens is actually one in all them. Situated in Lake Wales, Florida, it’s completely value 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 bushes, flowers, and artwork installations across the property. There’s additionally a powerful 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 beneath. Canine 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 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 Eighties, and in its heyday, there have been greater than 500 Greek divers with 50 boats working within the space. The docks are nonetheless lively at present, and you’ll 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 incredible theme park in Florida for households and likewise makes for a enjoyable date day possibility.
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 greatest 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 one of the distinctive as a result of its theme. Ebook 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 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 inbuilt 1924 however has maintained its spot as a preferred vacation spot for locals and vacationers alike. There’s a waterfall, youngsters’ pool, varied 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 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 reminiscent of turtles, geese, beavers, and plenty of different critters. You may tube alongside the river throughout the hotter months or hike on one of many three trails whereas taking in all the sweetness 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 referred to as Cassadaga, Florida, which is legendary for one factor – many of the residents declare they’ll talk with the deceased. Yep, the whole 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 providers, occasions, and medium readings. It’s open to the general public, nonetheless, appointments are inspired for readings with a medium.
So, should you really feel such as you wish to get in contact with any misplaced family members, this place is unquestionably the most effective 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 below are just a few ideas on how one can spend your time in The Sunshine State.
1 Day in Florida Itinerary
Should you solely have in the future to spend in Florida, your greatest 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 superb for an entire day. Take a look at the MIAM Cafe, Coyo Taco, or Loopy Poke, all positioned close to the partitions.
Orlando is one other nice possibility as a result of you possibly can choose a theme park to spend hours on thrill rides, seeing reveals, and making reminiscences.
2-3 Days in Florida Itinerary
Two to 3 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 in the future, earlier than taking a drive to Gainesville. From there, you possibly can discover the attractive Satan’s Den and swim within the crystal-clear waters.
In your remaining day, you possibly can drive as much as Jacksonville and head to Amelia Island. Right here, you possibly can take pleasure in a scrumptious cocktail on the oldest bar in Florida, the Palace Saloon. Amelia Island additionally has some incredible seashores for sunbathing and swimming. Connections are simple, and you’ll 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 nearly limitless! You would 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 advocate flying into Miami and having fun with the entire artwork and tradition the 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, hire a automotive and drive 4 hours to the southernmost level within the United States in Key West. Don’t neglect to have a slice of Key Lime pie!
Getting To Florida
Attending to Florida is sort of simple, irrespective 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 greatest guess can be to hire your individual automotive, so you may get round by yourself time. Nevertheless, 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 incredible rail system that can assist you get round. In any other case, you possibly can take public transportation, name an Uber, or organize for personal transfers to get you to the place you have to go.
Issues To Do in Florida: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Florida:
Florida is legendary for its sunny climate, incredible seashores, and unimaginable tradition.
The very best time to go to Florida is determined by 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 value visiting. Each area and metropolis has one thing totally different and thrilling to supply.
You need 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 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 frequent 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 notably in style.
The very best seaside, for my part, is in Sarasota on Siesta Key. The water is obvious and the sand is unbelievably smooth.
It’s all about recent seafood in Florida. Should you’re in Miami, Cuban meals is sort of in style, and Key Lime pie is a should.
Essentially 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 probably the most stunning.
In southern Florida, you possibly can swim year-round. In northern Florida, the most effective swimming months are Could by means of October.
Usually, sure, it’s secure to swim within the ocean in Florida. Nevertheless, it’s vital to maintain a watch out for rip present warnings. There’s threat of sharks in Florida too.
In Closing
Determining enjoyable issues to do in Florida could be difficult when there are such a lot of locations to go to and sights to see. I by no means get uninterested in exploring my state and appear to search out one thing new each time I’m going out and discover.
Irrespective of should 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.
