Florida, often called the Sunshine State, is a land of immense diversity, offering far more than just beautiful beaches. From thrilling theme parks and vibrant cityscapes to ancient historical sites and breathtaking natural wonders, deciding what to visit in florida can feel overwhelming given the sheer variety of experiences available. This guide, crafted from personal exploration, dives into some of the most captivating destinations across the state, aiming to inspire your next adventure and help you discover the best places to explore.
Florida’s landscape is incredibly varied. You could spend weeks traversing its length and breadth, from the bustling metropolises down south to the quieter, rolling hills of the panhandle, and still not uncover all its secrets. This vastness is its charm, providing endless excuses to return. Beyond the renowned sunshine, Florida boasts rich culinary scenes, a fascinating mix of cultures, and unparalleled natural beauty that truly sets it apart.
Sunny beach view in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Embarking on a journey through Florida means preparing for a tapestry of experiences. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping rides, serene natural escapes, deep historical dives, or mouthwatering local flavors, knowing what to visit in florida is key to planning a truly memorable trip. Let’s explore some must-see destinations that showcase the best of what this dynamic state has to offer.
Unforgettable Places and Experiences
Florida’s unique geography and history have shaped a wide array of destinations, each offering distinct attractions. To truly grasp the essence of the Sunshine State, it’s essential to look beyond the obvious and explore the different facets that make it special. Here’s a curated list to help you decide what to visit in florida, covering everything from iconic landmarks to hidden gems.
Theme Park Thrills in Orlando
Perhaps the most famous answer to “what to visit in florida” for many, Orlando is the undisputed capital of theme parks. While often perceived as solely for families, the magic and thrills here appeal to visitors of all ages.
Theme parks like those at Universal Orlando Resort, especially Islands of Adventure, offer exhilarating rides and immersive lands designed to delight adults and teens just as much as children. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a particular highlight for its incredible detail.
Disney World remains an iconic choice, evoking nostalgia and introducing new, stunning parks and attractions regularly. Witnessing a parade or the nightly fireworks show is a quintessential Orlando experience that shouldn’t be missed. Orlando is a must for anyone seeking pure fun when considering what to visit in florida.
Entrance to a theme park in Orlando, Florida
Finding accommodation close to the parks, like near Disney’s Hollywood Studios, can provide a convenient retreat after a long day of excitement. There are so many parks that dedicating a week or more to Orlando still might not cover everything.
Coastal Charms: St. Petersburg & Clearwater Beaches
Located on the Gulf of Mexico coast, a relatively short drive from Orlando, St. Petersburg (or St. Pete) and nearby Clearwater Beach offer fantastic seaside escapes. St. Pete boasts a lively downtown area complemented by stunning beaches.
The area is also gaining recognition for its impressive food scene. From Cuban delicacies to fresh seafood shacks, there’s an abundance of culinary delights to discover. Trophy Fish, known for its live music and fresh catch, exemplifies the vibrant dining options.
Colorful murals and street art in St. Pete, Florida
A landmark worth visiting in St. Pete Beach is the historic Don CeSar hotel, affectionately known as the “Pink Palace.” This iconic beachfront property has hosted celebrities like Marilyn Monroe and offers a glimpse into the area’s glamorous past while providing modern luxury right on the sand.
These coastal cities offer a perfect blend of beach relaxation, cultural exploration, and gastronomic adventures, making them excellent choices when deciding what to visit in florida.
Relaxation and Culture in Fort Lauderdale
Just south of St. Petersburg, Fort Lauderdale offers another distinct coastal vibe. Situated about a 30-minute drive north of Miami, it’s ideal for those seeking a mix of laid-back beach time and vibrant nightlife or cultural activities.
Strolling along Las Olas Boulevard reveals chic boutiques, art galleries, and diverse restaurants. Food enthusiasts will find incredible options, including authentic Italian cuisine at places like Louie Bossi’s.
Beyond the beach, exploring the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens provides a historical and artistic perspective. The nearby city of Hollywood also features impressive public art murals worth seeking out. Fort Lauderdale provides a relaxed yet cultured answer to what to visit in florida.
Step Back in Time in St. Augustine
Holding the title of the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the United States, St. Augustine on Florida’s Atlantic Coast is a treasure trove of history. Its charming Spanish colonial architecture is a beautiful contrast to many of Florida’s newer cities.
Wandering through the historic downtown feels like stepping back in time. Culinary stops like Woodpeckers Backyard Barbeque offer hearty Southern fare, perfect for refueling after exploring. Their ribs are particularly noteworthy.
Historic street view in St. Augustine, Florida
A must-see is the Castillo de San Marcos, a formidable 17th-century Spanish stone fortress that stands as a testament to the city’s strategic importance and turbulent past. St. Augustine is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in American history and colonial architecture when considering what to visit in florida.
Wild Encounters in the Everglades
For a completely different kind of Florida experience, the Everglades National Park is essential. This unique ecosystem is one of the most significant national parks in the United States, renowned for its diverse wildlife.
The Everglades are home to iconic creatures like alligators and panthers, alongside countless species of birds, snakes, and other animals. It’s a vast preservation area that offers a glimpse into subtropical wilderness unlike anywhere else.
An alligator rests in the water in the Everglades, Florida
Taking an airboat ride is a thrilling way to navigate the shallow waters and sawgrass marshes while searching for alligators and other wildlife. Be prepared for insects, however, as bug spray is a necessity in this humid environment. The Everglades offer an unforgettable natural adventure for those deciding what to visit in florida.
Discover the Panhandle’s Capital: Tallahassee
Often overlooked compared to Florida’s more famous coastal cities, Tallahassee serves as the state capital and offers a distinct perspective. Located in the Florida Panhandle, its surroundings feature rolling hills and dense forests, a departure from the flat, sandy landscapes found elsewhere in the state.
Tallahassee and its vicinity are rich in history. The Goodwood Museum and Gardens, a former plantation site, provides insight into Southern history. Mission San Luis offers a fascinating reconstruction of a 17th-century Spanish mission, illustrating the area’s colonial past.
View of a government building in Tallahassee, Florida
For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Apalachicola National Forest and Tate’s Hell State Forest provide numerous hiking and fishing opportunities. A unique geological feature can be explored west of the city at Florida Caverns State Park, offering tours of stunning caves. Tallahassee presents a blend of history, nature, and distinct regional charm when considering what to visit in florida.
Tropical Paradise: The Florida Keys
Stretching south from the mainland like a string of pearls, the Florida Keys are a chain of tropical islands renowned for their stunning beauty and relaxed atmosphere. The drive along the Overseas Highway is an experience in itself, culminating in Key West.
Sunsets in the Keys are legendary, best enjoyed with a refreshing drink in hand. The islands offer fantastic opportunities for water activities, including swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing. The coral reefs here are teeming with marine life.
Colorful buildings and street scene in Key West, Florida Keys
Key West is the most famous Key, known for its lively atmosphere and historical sites. Visitors can explore the home of Ernest Hemingway, now a museum, or enjoy the vibrant bars and shops along Duval Street. Be prepared for warmer, more humid conditions compared to northern Florida. The Keys are a must-add to your list of what to visit in florida for a true tropical escape.
Nature’s Lazy River: Tubing the Ichetucknee
For a less conventional Florida experience, tubing down the Ichetucknee River at Ichetucknee Springs State Park is a unique activity. Located a couple of hours north of Orlando, this state park offers a natural, laid-back adventure often unknown even to locals.
The park is a protected natural area where visitors can enjoy hiking, canoeing, scuba diving, and, most famously, tubing. Tubes can be rented nearby, and the river’s gentle current carries you downstream, requiring almost no effort.
People floating down a clear river in inner tubes in Florida
Floating down the crystal-clear Ichetucknee is a fantastic way to see Florida’s natural beauty and wildlife, including sightings of manatees. This tranquil experience offers a peaceful contrast to the state’s busier attractions and is a wonderful option for those seeking natural beauty when deciding what to visit in florida.
Reach for the Stars: Kennedy Space Center
Located on Merritt Island near Cape Canaveral, NASA’s Kennedy Space Center is approximately 90 minutes from Orlando and is a must-visit for anyone fascinated by space exploration. It’s one of the best places in florida to delve into the history and future of human spaceflight.
The Visitor Complex offers immersive experiences, such as the Shuttle Launch Experience, which simulates the feeling of blasting off into space. The Apollo/Saturn V Center houses impressive artifacts from the Apollo missions, including a massive Saturn V rocket.
Historic street view in St. Augustine, Florida
Exploring the Kennedy Space Center provides incredible insight into the achievements of NASA and the wonders of the universe. It’s an inspiring educational attraction that adds a unique dimension to your trip when planning what to visit in florida.
Beyond the Major Cities: Exploring Florida’s Best Beaches
Given its extensive coastline on both the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, it’s no surprise that Florida is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the United States. You’re never far from a stunning stretch of sand, with most areas being within 75 miles of the coast.
Clearwater Beach on the Gulf Coast, near St. Pete, is famous for its incredibly soft, white sand and remarkably clear, blue waters, often ranking among the top beaches in the country.
White sand beach and clear blue water at Clearwater Beach, Florida
Further south, Miami’s South Beach offers a different vibe – a lively, iconic urban beach experience surrounded by Art Deco architecture and vibrant culture. For a truly unique beachcombing adventure, Venice Beach near Sarasota is known as the “Shark Tooth Capital of the World,” where fossilized shark teeth frequently wash ashore. Exploring Florida’s diverse beaches is a key part of understanding what to visit in florida.
Remote Beauty: Dry Tortugas National Park
For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, Dry Tortugas National Park offers something distinct. Located about 68 miles west of Key West, this remote park is only accessible by ferry or seaplane, adding to its sense of isolation and pristine beauty.
The park’s centerpiece is Fort Jefferson, a massive, unfinished 19th-century coastal fortress with a fascinating history. Exploring the fort is a journey through military history.
A large brick fort on a small island surrounded by clear blue water at Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
The surrounding waters are exceptionally clear, making it a prime location for snorkeling and diving. The coral reefs are vibrant, and the chance to spot resident sea turtles adds to the appeal. Dry Tortugas provides an unforgettable natural and historical escape for those seeking unique answers to what to visit in florida.
The Vibrant Energy of Miami
No discussion of what to visit in florida is complete without mentioning Miami. This dynamic city on the southeastern coast pulses with energy and a unique blend of cultures, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking excitement and style.
Miami is comprised of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character. Wynwood is famous for its incredible street art murals, while the Design District offers high-end fashion and architecture.
Colorful street art murals on walls in the Wynwood neighborhood of Miami, Florida
Exploring historical sites like the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens provides a glimpse into early 20th-century opulence. For authentic cultural immersion and lively music venues, Little Havana offers a vibrant taste of Cuba. Miami’s mix of art, culture, food, and nightlife ensures it remains a top choice for what to visit in florida.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Florida only about theme parks and beaches?
Absolutely not! While Florida is famous for its theme parks and beautiful beaches, the state offers incredible diversity. You can explore historical cities like St. Augustine, vast natural parks like the Everglades and Dry Tortugas, vibrant cultural hubs like Miami’s Little Havana, and unique nature experiences like tubing the Ichetucknee River.
What is the best time of year to visit Florida?
The best time to visit Florida depends on your preferences. Generally, the cooler, drier months from December to April are considered peak season, especially in southern Florida. Summer (June to September) is hot and humid with a higher chance of rain and tropical storms, but can be good for budget travel. Spring and Fall offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
How long should I plan for a trip to Florida?
Due to Florida’s size and diversity, a single trip of a week or even two might only cover a specific region or a few key destinations. To experience a wider range of attractions, plan for at least 10-14 days, or focus on a particular area like South Florida, the Gulf Coast, or Central Florida if your time is limited.
Is it necessary to rent a car in Florida?
Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Florida, especially if you plan to visit multiple locations outside of major city centers like Miami or Orlando, where ride-sharing and limited public transport exist. A car offers the flexibility to explore at your own pace and reach more remote natural areas.
Conclusion
Florida is a state of incredible breadth and depth, offering a kaleidoscope of experiences for every type of traveler. From the thrilling rides of Orlando and the historic streets of St. Augustine to the wild beauty of the Everglades and the tropical allure of the Florida Keys, deciding what to visit in florida is just the beginning of planning an unforgettable journey. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, or historical insight, Florida welcomes you to discover its unique charm and make memories that will last a lifetime.