If there was ever a state with an countless 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 in this state has one thing distinctive and fascinating to supply.
I’ve been visiting Florida since I used to be a child, and I really 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 right 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 lined.
Best Things 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 in the Everglades
Each time I’ve buddies or household come to go to for the primary time, one of many major actions I all the time recommend doing collectively is taking an airboat tour in 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 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 sinister, this magical place is really certainly one of my favourite locations in your entire 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 in explicit is that it’s certainly one of North America’s most prehistoric springs.
In the event you’re going to do something throughout your journey, ensure 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? One of the crucial 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 ebook a non-public 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.
Nicely often called one of many high issues to do in Florida, The Ringling has an in depth assortment of artwork and is dwelling 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 out a journey to Disney World. Regardless 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. Every one affords totally different themes and rides, they usually’re all superior. Magic Kingdom is my private favourite.
Essentially the most fundamental ticket begins at $109, however you’ll seemingly need to spend a minimum of 4 days at Disney World to completely expertise all the parks and points of interest.
6. Take a Glass Backside Boat in the Crystal River Protect
My major objective 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 greatest guess. It was a assure that I’d see them (plural!) – it is called the “Manatee Capital of the World, in any case.
One of the simplest ways to see Crystal River and these magnificent animals is by taking a glass-bottom boat tour or renting a clear kayak. You can even swim and snorkel with them as properly, and I extremely suggest doing so in case you get the prospect – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime expertise.
Within the winter, there will be upwards of 500 manatees in the river; they’re majestic creatures to see. Ebook your Crystal River tour right here.
7. Step Again in Time in the Sunken Gardens
In St. Petersburg, Florida, you’ll discover one of many oldest gardens in the area; dwelling 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 stage.
Take a stroll in the beautiful 4-acre park that’s been round for greater than a hundred years. There are gorgeous 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. House of the spectacular Fort Jefferson, some lovely coral reefs and energetic marine life, this park is the right location for out of doors lovers.
Plan a tenting journey, a seaplane constitution, or just discover the world by swimming; the varied Dry Tortugas Nationwide Park is unquestionably a place 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
Among the best free issues to do in Florida is to move to the seashore. The crystal clear waters and comfortable white sands of Clearwater Seashore supply that idyllic, picture-perfect setting you’re on the lookout for.
The calm and heat waters of Clearwater Seashore make it excellent for swimming, and the sand is so comfortable 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 Seashore, ebook your self a dolphin-watching tour out of Clearwater Bay.
10. Stroll Across the Oldest Metropolis in the Nation
Many individuals don’t know that St. Augustine, Florida is the oldest metropolis in 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 a large previous fort that sits on the river financial institution.
I really like wandering the previous streets of St. Augustine and popping into totally different outlets, 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 properly value touring the grounds.
One of the simplest 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 biggest butterfly park in the world? Butterfly World is situated in Coconut Creek, and it’s top-of-the-line issues to do in Florida. It’s been open since 1988 and spans three acres.
It’s dwelling to over 20,000 stay butterflies which you can hang around with as you stroll by way of the botanical gardens. There’s additionally an aviary with tropical birds and an on-site analysis middle.
A day cross 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 really no place like Key West; it’s some of the lovely 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 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 Seashore is a tremendous enjoyable place to go to, in normal, however, one of many greatest 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 possibly can take a 2.5-hour speedway tour or plan your journey round one of many races. In the event you’re fortunate, you’ll be able to try to get a ticket to the famend Daytona 500. Ebook your ticket right here.
SEE ALSO: 25 Enjoyable Things 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 am going to Amelia Island, I all the time be sure to make a cease right here – it’s a a part of historical past!
Open since 1903, the Palace Saloon is Florida’s oldest bar. Throughout Prohibition, they have 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 the right way to discover your approach 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 plenty of enjoyable rides which might be all centered round LEGO. Children will adore 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 unbelievable artist, and The Dali Museum homes a few of his most iconic artworks. Positioned 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 teenagers, 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 authentic avenue artwork museum. This mind-blowing museum options large avenue artwork murals from among the most well-known artists in the world.
Once I first visited, I critically couldn’t consider 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 lovers will completely love touring round Florida as a result of almost each main metropolis has a sporting workforce of some kind. Whether or not you’re into skilled or school, soccer or basketball – you’ll have the ability to discover a sporting occasion to attend all through your entire 12 months.
Throughout soccer season, you’ll be able to go to a Jacksonville Jaguars, Miami Dolphins, or Tampa Bay Buccaneers sport. Basketball followers can head to Miami for a Warmth sport or Orlando for a Magic sport. And through baseball season, we’ve obtained the Miami Marlins and Tampa Bay Rays.
Preserve 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 on the lookout for issues to do in Florida, something involving water is all the time on the high of my record. 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 buddies or household, and cruise down the stainless waters of the Sante Fe River. The summer season months can turn into tremendous busy, so ebook your reservations in advance.
Other than tubing, you can too merely swim in the gorgeous waters, lease snorkeling gear, canoe, kayak, or paddleboard. It’s the final 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 certainly one of 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 fowl 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, mountain climbing trails, and a customer middle.
Admission is $20 for adults, $10 for kids ages 6-17, and free for kids 5 and underneath. 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 definitely a sight to see. There’s a wealthy Greek heritage in the city, so there are many tasty eating places to check out throughout your go to as properly.
This small fishing village began harvesting sponges again in the 1880s, and in its heyday, there have been greater than 500 Greek divers with 50 boats working in the world. The docks are nonetheless energetic right this moment, and you may see the boats drying out their harvested sponges. It’s a actually 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 situated in Tampa is the world-famous Busch Gardens. It’s a nice 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 among the greatest rollercoasters in the state, seize a chew at one of many many eateries in the park.
Out of all of the theme parks in Florida, that is by far some of the distinctive as a consequence 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 kind of the attraction. With over 820,000 gallons of water, it’s the biggest freshwater pool in the USA.
The 4-acre pool has gone by way of some modifications because it was constructed in 1924 however has maintained its spot as a fashionable 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 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 resembling turtles, geese, beavers, and plenty of different critters. You possibly can tube alongside the river through the hotter months or hike on one of many three trails whereas taking in all the wonder round you.
In the event 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 will talk with the deceased. Yep, your entire city is stuffed with mediums.
Referred to as the “Psychic Capital of the World,” Cassadaga is dwelling 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 most effective place to do it. Get instructions to Cassadaga right here.
Fast Journey Itineraries For Florida
There’s a lot to do and see in Florida, so it may be arduous to know the place to begin on the subject of constructing an itinerary. Listed here are a few recommendations on the right way to spend your time in The Sunshine State.
1 Day in Florida Itinerary
In the event you solely have in the future to spend in Florida, your greatest guess might be to hang around in Miami or Orlando. Miami is dwelling to lovely seashores, vibrant nightlife, and the Wynwood Partitions. Plus, there are tons of nice eating places and bars – making it best for a complete day. Take a look at the MIAM Cafe, Coyo Taco, or Loopy Poke, all situated 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-Three Days in Florida Itinerary
Two to 3 days in Florida means that you can do a bit extra. I’d suggest heading as much as St. Augustine to discover the oldest metropolis in the nation for in the future, earlier than taking a drive to Gainesville. From there, you’ll be able to discover the beautiful Satan’s Den and swim in 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 get pleasure from 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 straightforward, and you may fly straight out of Jacksonville.
1 Week in Florida Itinerary
In the event you’re fortunate sufficient to have a complete week in Florida, the probabilities and choices are virtually countless! You could possibly spend a complete week almost 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 all the 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 couple of days in Miami, lease a automotive and drive 4 hours to the southernmost level in the USA in Key West. Don’t neglect to have a slice of Key Lime pie!
Getting To Florida
Attending to Florida is kind of straightforward, irrespective of the place you’re coming from. Each single main metropolis in the state has a world airport (or two), so reserving a flight is straightforward.
When you’ve arrived, your greatest guess can 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 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’ll be able to take public transportation, name an Uber, or organize for personal transfers to get you to the place you have to go.
Things To Do in Florida: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Florida:
Florida is legendary for its sunny climate, incredible seashores, and unbelievable tradition.
The very best 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 delicate temperatures, with fewer crowds.
Sure! Florida is totally value visiting. Each area and metropolis has one thing totally different and thrilling to supply.
You must 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 very secure state. After all, in each main metropolis, it’s essential 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 fashionable.
The very best seashore, in my opinion, is in Sarasota on Siesta Key. The water is evident and the sand is unbelievably comfortable.
It’s all about recent seafood in Florida. In the event you’re in Miami, Cuban meals is kind of fashionable, 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 essentially the most lovely.
In southern Florida, you’ll be able to swim year-round. In northern Florida, the most effective swimming months are Might by way of October.
Usually, sure, it’s secure to swim in the ocean in Florida. Nevertheless, it’s essential to maintain a watch out for rip present warnings. There may be threat of sharks in Florida too.
In Closing
Determining enjoyable issues to do in Florida will 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.
Regardless of in case you’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.