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Best places to visit in florida in 2024.

With more than 8,000 miles of shoreline, the Sunshine State is prime vacation territory. But with so many diverse destinations in Florida, it can be hard to pick which place is right for your next getaway. That's why U.S. News considered factors like the number of attractions, availability of accommodations and the opinions of everyday travelers to pick the best places to visit in Florida. Vote for your favorite spots below to help determine next year's list.

Clearwater Beach

St. augustine, anna maria island, dry tortugas national park, marco island, amelia island, sanibel island, miami beach, everglades national park, st. petersburg, fl, fort lauderdale, cocoa beach.

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This picturesque barrier island off the coast of Sarasota is a prime vacation spot for relaxation-seeking travelers. Spend your getaway lounging on Siesta Beach, often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world , and enjoy powdery white sands and a bevy of family-friendly amenities including beach volleyball, a playground and concession stands. Or, head to quieter Turtle Beach for shelling and kayaking. In the evening, catch some live music in Siesta Key Village.

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Clearwater Beach's beautiful white sand , crystal clear water and small-town vibe make it an ideal destination for a family vacation on the Gulf Coast. Spend the day getting a snapshot of the city during a Segway tour or visit Caladesi Island State Park (only accessible by boat) for its untouched natural splendor. Also save time for a visit to one of the area's biggest attractions, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where the dolphins that inspired the "Dolphin Tale" movies were rehabilitated. Later, head to Pier 60 to catch a sunset, purchase locally made crafts and watch various street performances.

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History buffs should make a beeline for St. Augustine. Founded by the Spaniards in 1565, this town in northern Florida is the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the U.S., earning it the nickname the Ancient City. Constructed from local coquina, a unique type of stone made from compressed shells and limestone, St. Augustine's structures and monuments (including the buildings lining pedestrian-friendly St. George Street and the imposing Castillo de San Marcos National Monument) act as a living guide to history. When it's time to relax after taking in the sights, head to Anastasia State Park for its unspoiled beaches and sand dunes.

top countries to visit florida

This tranquil barrier island located roughly 35 miles south of St. Petersburg is the perfect place to recharge your batteries. Kick back on gorgeous white sand shorelines like Bean Point and Coquina Beach, then grab a bite to eat along Pine Avenue, the island's historic main street. And if you're traveling with children, Mote's Marine Science Education & Outreach Center features several kid-friendly programs worth checking out. Meanwhile, history enthusiasts should pencil in time for a tour of the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum.

top countries to visit florida

Made up of six islands in the Florida Keys – Plantation Key, Windley Key, Indian Key, Lignumvitae Key and Upper and Lower Matecumbe Keys – Islamorada boasts tranquil parks, colorful coral reefs and art galleries. Thanks to its position between the Florida Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, this laid-back coastal village is a renowned sport fishing destination, bringing in species like sailfish, marlin, mahi-mahi, tuna and tarpon. But if you don't feel like casting a line, you can check out the History of Diving Museum or put a dent in your wallet at the shops in Rain Barrel Village. 

top countries to visit florida

Sitting about 70 miles off the coast of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is known for its premier snorkeling and wildlife-viewing opportunities. Home to nearly 300 species of birds, five types of sea turtles and about 30 species of coral, this remote seven-island park in the Gulf of Mexico is a popular Florida day trip destination for nature lovers. Plus, travelers can go on a self-guided tour of the 19th-century coastal fortress Fort Jefferson, located on Garden Key. Keep in mind, Dry Tortugas National Park can only be reached by boat or seaplane, and an entrance fee is required.

top countries to visit florida

The elegant and romantic city of Naples is all about luxury and relaxation. This spot on Florida's Paradise Coast is known for its gorgeous sugar-white sand beaches and incredible golf courses. High-end shops and gourmet restaurants abound, especially along Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South. Plus, flora and fauna lovers have access to all kinds of nature-focused attractions here, such as the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, the Naples Botanical Garden and Clam Pass Park. Those who appreciate art won't want to miss The Baker Museum or one of the city's many art galleries.

top countries to visit florida

Known as the Diving Capital of the World, Key Largo offers access to the only living coral reef in the continental U.S., the country's first undersea park (John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park) and the only underwater hotel in the world solely accessible by scuba diving. The largest island in the Florida Keys is also a prime spot for other aquatic activities, including snorkeling, deep-sea fishing and glass-bottom boating. When you're ready to trade your sea legs for solid ground, grab a bite to eat and a rum runner cocktail at one of Key Largo's laid-back eateries.

top countries to visit florida

World-famous attractions such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Florida make Orlando a year-round tourist destination, but there are many attractions and activities outside of the theme parks . Travelers can shop till they drop at outlet malls, hit the links at one of the area's many golf courses, and get up close and personal with dolphins and stingrays at Discovery Cove. Those without little ones can explore Orlando's revitalized nightlife and restaurant scenes in the downtown area.

top countries to visit florida

Travel to this island in the Florida Keys to relax at a beachside resort and see the southernmost point in the continental United States. Key West is known for its free-spirited locals, colorful conch-style homes and coral reefs ripe for snorkeling and scuba diving. Between boat tours and margaritas, bibliophiles will enjoy visiting the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where they can learn more about the famous writer and see descendants of his six-toed cat, Snow White. Or, head to Key West's main drag, Duval Street, for its cafes, shops and nightlife.

top countries to visit florida

The largest of Southwest Florida's Ten Thousand Islands, Marco Island is a haven for water sports like boating, fishing and kayaking. Its sunny skies and white sand beaches invite visitors to sunbathe, swim and search for seashells. Those who want a break from the sand can learn about the island's ties to the ancient Calusa Native Americans at the Marco Island Historical Museum or look for manatees, sea turtles and other wild animals in Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge.

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Located about 30 miles northeast of Jacksonville, Amelia Island's historical charm and 13 miles of uncrowded beaches make it a top vacation destination. Stroll through Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach, where pirates used to roam and the modern shrimping industry was born. For some fun yet relaxing activities, go horseback riding by the water or play a round of golf on one of the island's highly regarded courses.

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This spot along the Florida Panhandle's Emerald Coast is a home away from home for thousands of summer vacationers. Its unique, postcard-worthy white sands made from Appalachian quartz and its clear, bright blue-green water help Destin stand out from other Florida beaches. The nearby Henderson Beach State Park is a must-visit shoreline, with its 30-foot white sand dunes. And Destin's manicured golf courses, optimal fishing conditions and shop- and restaurant-lined boardwalk continue to attract travelers year after year.

top countries to visit florida

Relaxation is a given on Sanibel Island. Severely impacted by Hurricane Ian in 2022, Sanibel Island continues to recover but is once again welcoming tourists. Your first stop here will no doubt be the beach – Bowman's Beach offers prime shelling opportunities and Captiva Island is an excellent place for water sports like snorkeling and kayaking – but it would be a shame to visit the area without also exploring its many art galleries, bike trails and shops. Plus, you'll want to save time for activities like birding and fishing in the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Just plan ahead; lodging options remain limited.

top countries to visit florida

Few places in the world compare to colorful, vibrant Miami Beach. From the one-of-a-kind art deco architecture along Ocean Drive to the scantily clad beachgoers on South Beach, this Miami offshoot attracts everyone from relaxed retirees to night owls. But you'll want to bring along your credit card because those fashionable dance clubs and chic, trendy restaurants don't come cheap. To save some money, consider buying a Go Miami card before your trip to access to some of the area's museums and tours for a fraction of the price.

top countries to visit florida

Florida is almost as famous for its alligators as it is for its beaches and theme parks, and one of the best places to see them is in Everglades National Park. As the largest subtropical wilderness in the country, the park is the world's only environment where alligators and crocodiles coexist. It's also home to rare species like manatees and panthers. The Everglades offers several hiking trails and guided tours for navigating its vast 1.5 million acres. Be sure to visit between November and April (the park's dry season) to enjoy lower temperatures, fewer mosquitos and increased chances of spotting wildlife.

top countries to visit florida

Holding the Guinness World Record for most consecutive days of sunshine, St. Petersburg appeals to all types of travelers. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy St. Pete Beach and the 7 miles of waterfront parks. Away from the shore, downtown St. Petersburg offers plenty of attractions, including a museum dedicated to the works of Salvador Dalí and the Sunken Gardens, the city's oldest living museum. The city also hosts one of the largest Pride events in the U.S. every summer and is home to a large LGBTQ+ community.

top countries to visit florida

If you're looking for sun, sand and superb shopping, Fort Lauderdale is the place to go. Fort Lauderdale features palm-tree-lined beaches, and its 165 miles of waterways and canals have earned it the nickname the Venice of America. Those looking to partake in some retail therapy will find plenty of shops and restaurants on Las Olas Boulevard and in Galleria Fort Lauderdale and Sawgrass Mills, the largest outlet mall in the country. When you're not exercising your wallet or lounging on beautiful Las Olas Beach, don't forget to check out the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, which was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1984.

top countries to visit florida

Much like its sunny neighbor, St. Petersburg, Tampa attracts visitors with its balmy weather and outdoor pursuits. But as the third largest city in Florida, Tampa also offers a little more action. Visitors can stroll along the lively Tampa Riverwalk to get a glimpse of public art and dazzling light displays, or visit one of the area's museums, such as the Tampa Bay History Center. Those bringing kids along can also explore Glazer Children's Museum or The Florida Aquarium (with a stop at Sparkman Wharf for lunch), or tire them out with some thrills at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

top countries to visit florida

Cocoa Beach appeals to everyone from space enthusiasts to surfers. The nearby Kennedy Space Center offers a firsthand look at NASA's shuttles and launch pads. In the northern part of Cocoa Beach, visitors will find one of the best places in Florida to surf and the flagship Ron Jon Surf Shop, the largest surf shop in the world. Here, you'll also find the Florida Surf Museum, where you can learn more about the history of Florida surfing. Vacationers can also sign up for bioluminescent kayaking tours of the area's waterways or play beach volleyball next to the Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

top countries to visit florida

Fort Walton Beach

top countries to visit florida

St. George Island

top countries to visit florida

Panama City Beach

top countries to visit florida

West Palm Beach

top countries to visit florida

Delray Beach

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60 Things To Do & Places To Visit In Florida

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: August 29, 2020  - Last updated: October 15, 2023

things to do in Florida

Florida, the Sunshine State, is a delightful haven for tourism.

Beaches, museums, art features, and cultural flair, often all close to each other, make Florida a vacation location unlike any other!

But with so many fun choices, you might struggle to choose where to go.

To help you decide what sites are must-visit vacation spots for you, here is a travel guide of the 60 top things to do and places to visit in Florida!

Table of Contents

1. Castillo de San Marcos

Castillo de San Marcos

Bertl123 / Shutterstock

Castillo de San Marcos is an extremely historic location, found along the shore of Florida in St. Augustine .

The gray structure rises into the sky, made from stonewalls famous for being “unbreakable”.

Holes of different sizes punctuate the walls, showing off all the battles and wars that the fort proudly stood against as it served the land that would become Florida.

This fortress of sorts was built in the 17th century by Spaniards who needed to keep their trading activities well-protected.

The walls remained strong against British siege for even two months straight, and many cannonballs remain lodged in the stonewall to this day. But how are the walls so strong?

Well, according to the material engineering students who uncovered the secrets of Castillo de San Marcos, the walls are made from a sedimentary rock type named coquina that doesn’t crack.

This is because it is composed of dead marine organism shells that have fluid particles, meaning it almost behaves more like foam than stone.

It was the best material the Spaniards could have chosen – and now, this gem of a fort is one of the state’s many points of interest, providing gorgeous views of the city and bay.

Address:  1 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084, United States

2. St. Augustine

St. Augustine

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

It’s impossible not to acknowledge the wonderful St. Augustine, which is undoubtedly one of the most enticing cities to visit in the state of Florida.

It’s the oldest city in America, which is why it’s one of the most-visited destinations for those who love immersing themselves in history and fascinating architecture.

The city is located along the northeastern side of Florida and is packed with buildings and structures that date back to Spanish colonial times.

You’ve already read about the incredible Castillo de San Marcos, but there are plenty of other things to check out, such as the many stretches of beautiful beach, Anastasia State Park, quirky eateries, and quaint roads.

3. Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens

VIAVAL TOURS / Shutterstock

Busch Gardens is a marvel full of safari action suitable for the whole family.

Located in the Tampa, Florida area, it’s home to over 300 different animal species (and over 12,000 individual animals) that are sure to excite and amaze.

Not much for animals?

Don’t worry; there’s a reason that Busch Gardens is ranked among the top 10 amusement parks in all of America, according to readers of USA Today!

A delightful roller coaster – floorless and extremely thrilling with shocking drops, angles, and speeds, is just one of its many draws.

Address:  10165 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612, United States

If you’re going to spend more time in Tampa, be sure to check out some fun things to do in Tampa !

4. Gatorland

Gatorland

James Kirkikis / Shutterstock

One of the top things to do in Florida for natural excitement is Gatorland , home to hundreds of alligators, crocodiles, and similar reptiles.

It’s one of the best ways to get back to the roots of good, old-fashioned enjoyment; feeding shows with room for audience participation, interesting tours, and a low price result in a kind of amusement park one may often forget exists in Florida.

Once you’re done with Orlando’s Gatorland, more adventurous tourists can attempt to check out the Gatorland in South Bay – now abandoned with only one building remaining.

It’s certainly fascinating to wander around and reminisce in the eerie, forgotten structure that still stands as a reminder of what once was.

Address:  14501 S Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32837, United States

5. Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park

Nick Fox / Shutterstock

If you seek to go sightseeing while in Florida, an absolute must-see spot is the Everglades National Park .

Covering a whopping 1.5 million acres, this subtropical wetlands sits in the southernmost part of Florida.

The wild area has earned a spot on the list of International Biosphere Reserve – and it’s also a World Heritage Site!

Everglades National Park was set up as a result of environmentalists who petitioned the government to preserve its nature.

It was formed in 1947 and is now, behind Yellowstone, America’s second-largest national park.

Primarily, it consists of swamp and subtropical marsh, with river, mangroves, and flatwoods that all act as habitats for hundreds of animal species, including endangered or threatened ones.

If you’re lucky, you might see some of them, such as the state panther, the manatee, the leatherback turtle, and the American crocodile.

Given its large size, most choose to check out only fractions of the Everglades National Park.

A simple walk works wonders, but guided boat tours, tram rides, and hiking tours are also great ways to get a feel of the park and experience its joys.

Address: 40001 State Road 9336, Florida City, FL 33034, United States

6. Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park

T-Anderson Photography / Shutterstock

The Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the best and most beautiful places in Florida to visit.

It spans across the Las Tortugas islands, so named by its “discoverer” Juan Ponce de Leon after the turtles he consumed to survive while he journeyed throughout the tumultuous waters of the world.

Since its discovery in 1513, the islands have grown.

Originally consisting mainly of coral, sea turtles, and saltwater, the Dry Tortugas soon became a common spot for explorers and merchants alike, which unintentionally caused it to host a good many shipwrecks as it earned the nickname “ship trap”.

It then became home to forts protecting the land, then as a prison, then as a coaling station, then again as a location during the war, and, finally, a national park.

The Dry Tortugas is now a large national park, and they’re so remote that they can only be visited via seaplane or boat.

This has made them one of the county’s least visited parks both in Florida and across the nation.

Address: Key West, FL 33040, United States

7. Legoland

Legoland

Rob Hainer / Shutterstock

Coming to Florida with kids who seek fun and exciting activities?

Legoland is an easy bet for one of the best things to do in Florida with children!

It’s the brand’s second-largest theme park, encompassing an impressive 145 acres of land and hosting more than 50 different rides – all Lego-themed!

A wide range of different attractions makes Legoland a real treat.

A water park, tours, rides, places to build Lego creations, shows, life-sized Lego mascots, and everything else you’d need to make any Lego fanatic jump for joy are found all throughout.

There is also a botanical garden and a hotel. The latter had themed Lego rooms, such as wizard, pirate, medieval, and more!

Address:  1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven, FL 33884, United States

8. Discovery Cove

Discovery Cove

Discovery Cove

Discovery Cove is one of the most delightful tourist attractions for marine animal-lovers in Florida.

The attraction sits in Orlando and is famous for allowing guests to get up close and personal with intelligent, sweet bottlenose dolphins!

You’ll get to talk to, touch, play with, and overall enjoy the company of these lovely mammals.

Apart from dolphins, many other marine creatures are available to befriend, including manta rays.

Apart from that, Discovery Cove has a one-of-a-kind feature where you get to essentially walk “underwater” along the ocean floor with the aid of a dive helmet.

You’ll also get to visit a freshwater lagoon that houses tropical birds (eager to be fed by questions) and otters.

It’s undoubtedly the loveliest way to learn about sea creatures in Florida.

Address:  6000 Discovery Cove Way, Orlando, FL 32821, United States

If you want to see more of this beautiful city in Florida, here are some of the best things to do in Orlando !

9. Venetian Pool

Venetian Pool

Marco Borghini / Shutterstock

The Venetian Pool is among the most famous and best places to see in the state of Florida because it’s America’s biggest freshwater swimming pool.

Located in Coral Gables of Florida, it is a very unique water feature that offers fun and relaxation to visitors.

The pool, now on the National Register of Historic Places, was built in an abandoned quarry for coral rocks back in 1924, designed to mimic the appearance of a Mediterranean-style Venetian grotto.

Natural grotto caves add to the overall aesthetic.

Perhaps the Venetian Pool’s most iconic feature is its stunningly crystal clear blue freshwater, always clean and clear.

The secret?

A natural system for filtration.

Originally, the water had to be drained out and replaced daily with artesian spring water, but after backlash from water conservationists, this filtration system allows pool water to be drained out and then back into an aquifer.

This basically means the filtration system cleans the pool and replaces it with its own clean remnants every day – though the traditional method of refilling water is still used in springtime and summer.

Because this means the pool stands empty sometimes, it is often used for events, like concerts.

Address: 2701 De Soto Blvd, Coral Gables, FL 33134, United States

10. Salvador Dali Museum

Salvador Dali Museum

travelview / Shutterstock

Whoever said old art is just for adults hasn’t seen much of Salvador Dali’s work.

The Salvador Dali Museum is the planet’s second-largest Dali artwork collection and lives in St. Petersburg, Florida, by the lovely waterfront.

The building carries Dali’s artistic spirits, with skylights in bubble-like shapes, waxed mustache decor, melting clocks, spindly sculptures, geometric windows, and wrap-around wall lights.

Originally, the Dali Museum’s contents were part of a collection owned by Reynolds and Eleanor Morse in their Cleveland hometown.

In 1982, the collection was moved to its current location in Florida, though only as a warehouse at first.

In 2011, it became an expanded museum and now it houses all sorts of oddities and wonders in more than 2,000 pieces!

All sorts of intriguing works are on display, including surreal paintings and seven masterworks, such as The Discovery of America by Christopher Columbus and The Hallucinogenic Toreador.

There are also films, photographs, and visiting collections from similar icons of the art world.

The Salvador Dali Museum, Florida is open daily and its special events make it a treat to go almost all the time, and even going this weekend is likely to net you something interesting!

Address:  1 Dali Blvd, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, United States

11. Daytona 500

Daytona 500

Grindstone Media Group / Shutterstock

The Daytona 500 race is the pinnacle of Nascar sportsmanship, often considered the most important of its events.

At the Daytona National Speedway in Florida, this race is held each February as a herald of the racing season.

Originally, before the Speedway’s creation in 1959, these races were held at Daytona Beach.

As per its name, the Daytona 500 spans 500 miles, and its tickets can be quite pricey.

However, the fun adrenaline of the race often makes the Daytona International Speedway one of the go-to places of interest in the state of Florida during the start of the racing season.

Even if you can’t watch a race, you can still go to the speedway; there are events in summer, music festivals at certain times of the year, and tours held regardless of the season!

Address: 1801 W International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, United States

12. Kennedy Space Center

Kennedy Space Center

NaughtyNut / Shutterstock

The Kennedy Space Center , close to Orlando, is a gem of NASA and one of the best activities for space-lovers in Florida who are seeking educational and exciting stuff to do.

The space center is home to all sorts of machinery and items relating to space exploration, from rocket launchers to historic memorabilia.

The Kennedy Space Center spans 140,000 acres and has served as a launch site for some of the country’s most important space shuttle missions.

Exhibits and showcases give you special insight into the world of NASA and two IMAX theaters play all sorts of fascinating and fun films related to space travel and discovery.

If you’re interested, you can opt for a bus tour of the spaceport that shows you the center grounds.

There are many different kinds of tours available, arranged chronologically so you can get a comprehensive look at the history of NASA, its stories, and its goals for the future.

It’s truly out of this world; by the time you’re done, you won’t even feel like you’re in Florida anymore!

Address: Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL 32899, United States

13. Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum

Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum

Robert Hoetink / Shutterstock

Given the rich background of journalist and novelist Ernest Hemingway, it’s no surprise that the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum is one of the many famous places loved by tourists in Florida.

Though the prolific man lived in many locations over his life, this home in particular has a good deal of importance to it.

Located in Key West, Florida on Whitehead street, this house was moved to by Hemingway in the mid-1920s as he moved from Paris to America at the advice of a friend and soon-to-be-legendary author John Dos Passos.

It was a gift by one of his uncles, evidently above what Hemingway could have been able to afford on his own; opulent Spanish-style architecture and luxurious fixings make the house, now, a treat for its design as much as its history.

In this house, Hemingway wrote A Farewell to Arms and parts of other great novels like Green Hills of Africa , Death in the Afternoon , and For Whom the Bell Tolls .

He also got the nickname Papa while living in this house and gained the inspiration for To Have and Have Not .

Now, visitors to the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum get to view over 20 years of memorabilia dating to Hemingway’s time in the home, from his typewriter to his hunting trophies – and more than 50 cats, most of which have extra toes!

Supposedly, these are almost all descended from a six-toed cat that Hemingway owned.

Address:  907 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040, United States

14. Miami Beach

Miami Beach

Few would visit Florida without taking a trip to one of its top beaches, Miami Beach.

It’s a haven for tourism, culture, and even authentic local experiences.

From families to models and from celebrities to critics, it seems like anyone who is (and isn’t) anyone goes here.

The beach is family-friendly, lined with affordable eateries, and very close by to all sorts of attractions like museums, theaters, and galleries.

Soak up the sun and surf, fish on piers, try some watersports, or do all of the above!

It’s quintessential Florida in a nutshell.

Want to take part in one of the most fun things to do in Florida without dealing with excessive crowds?

Head south to South Beach or South Pointe Park to find a more curated scene with different kinds of people.

Spending more time in Miami? Check out some of the best things to do in Miami !

15. Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is located along Florida’s southeastern coast and is often considered a must-do for tourists who love picturesque experiences, lovely beaches, and the ability to wander!

It’s one of the best ways to get an authentic taste of Florida, with beaches, sun, relaxation, shopping, and more – and it’s called the Venice of America, and you can’t go wrong with that!

Fort Lauderdale packed with great places to check out, including the Strip (a promenade full of boutiques, restaurants, hotels, shops, and bars), the 1901 Stranahan House (the oldest building that remains standing in the city), and attractions like Hugh Taylor Birch State Park and the Swimming Hall of Fame.

That’s not all! If you’re spending more time here, be sure to check out some of the fun things to do in Fort Lauderdale !

16. Bok Tower Gardens

Bok Tower Gardens

The Bok Tower Gardens are among the most beautiful places in Florida for sightseeing and architecture.

It was built for Edward W. Bok and Mary Louise Curtis Bok by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted Jr, completed in 1926 after five years of work.

The couples wanted to create a bird sanctuary after visiting Lake Wales Ridge in the winter.

Bok essentially gifted the Bok Tower Gardens to Florida and its people and it’s full of fun and beautiful vacation spots to find and marvel at.

This includes the Iron Mountain (one of the state’s highest points), a 205-foot singing tower of Art Deco, and neo-gothic style (marked by a brass door; you need to pay to enter), and of course a carillon – one of the finest in the world.

There is also a carillon library packed with photographs, books, scores, recordings, and articles about the instrument.

The carillon is played twice daily at one and three in the afternoon respectively.

Address:  1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853, United States

17. Panama City Beach

Panama City Beach

Christoph3rW / Shutterstock

Panama City Beach is one of the best places to visit in Florida if you’re seeking a vibrant coastal town that shows off the liveliest parts of Florida’s coast.

It’s full of stretches of beach, vibrant nightlife, and options for all ages.

There’s no shortage of things to do at Panama City Beach.

There’s Shipwreck Island Waterpark (with waterslides and pools), Gulf World Marine Park (where you can swim with marine life), Lake Powell, Camp Helen State Park, Russell-Fields Pier, and even the Gulf of Mexico itself.

A mix of wildlife paradise and nightlife haven, you’re sure to find something to love in this little town!

Address: 7940 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407, United States

18. Neptune Memorial Reef

Neptune Memorial Reef

Neptune Memorial Reef

A mix of mystery, fun, adventure, and the somber eclipse Neptune Memorial Reef , a “lost city” 40 feet beneath sea level.

It was originally called the Atlantis Memorial Reef that serves as an artificial reef for marine life and an underwater cemetery.

Its current name is earned from its sponsor, a cremation company called the Neptune Society.

Located a short distance from Miami’s Key Biscayne, the Neptune Memorial Reef opened its gates in 2007.

Designed by local artist Kim Brandell, it spans 16 acres and was specifically designed to be a hospital home for coral and marine life.

Divers can check out the place and swim through the park to observe the many memorials.

The Neptune Memorial Reef holds cremated remains that have been cast into memorials of concrete, arranged throughout the memorial park.

A mix of steel and bronze accents add flair and enchanting touches to the concrete.

One famous person laid to rest here is Bert Kilbride, who was once the world’s oldest scuba diver.

As far as Florida attractions go, it’s one of a kind!

Address: 3.25 miles offshore, Key Biscayne, FL 33149, United States

19. Clearwater

Clearwater

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There is no shortage of things to see in Clearwater , noted for housing a 3-mile expanse of one of the best beach stretches in Florida.

It’s among the favorite tourist attractions for beachgoers and divers, especially given its narrow but long-reaching barrier reef.

Hotels, eateries, and resorts line the sands, and its small-town aesthetic makes it a great, quieter vacation location in Florida.

Apart from heading to the beach, while in Clearwater, Florida, you can visit the Moccasin Lake Nature Park (full of boardwalk trails), Pier 60 (a great place to watch street performances and the sunset), the Bright House Field (where spring training is held for the baseball team of the Phillies), or the Clearwater Marine Aquarium (which is home to the dolphins that starred in the Dolphin Tale films).

20. Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World is the epitome of bucket list spots in Florida, full of excitement and fun that brings anyone’s inner child out to play.

It’s such a popular spot that it’s widely considered a staple for what to do in Florida.

You’ll get to experience all the magic, whimsy, and charm of Disney up close and personal at Walt Disney World, situated in Orlando, Florida.

The amusement park is packed with rides of all sorts, delicious Disney-themed treats, great souvenir shopping, and more!

You’ll also get to take pictures with awesome character actors.

If you’re going this weekend, consider a Fastpass that lets you skip some of the very long lines.

Address: World Drive, Orlando, FL 32830, United States

21. Fort Pickens

Fort Pickens

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Fort Pickens sits at the far end of all the beach and coast stretches in Florida.

As a military fort that dates back to the Civil War and early 19th century times, it’s one of the points of interest in the state known for its historical value.

The fort was finished in 1834, built as a result of remaining fears because of the War of 1812.

Its original function was to protect Pensacola Bay as the region moved on past the wars of yesterday to the hope of tomorrow.

It was mainly built by slave labor in difficult and inhumane conditions, and its engineer would eventually join the Confederacy.

Ironically, during the Civil War, this fort never left union control despite being attacked by its own engineer and many other Confederate forces!

After the Civil War, Fort Pickens would serve as an Indian Wars prison, even housing Geronimo.

Now, though, the fort rests in peaceful times in this corner of Florida.

Its remains are a national park and allow you to look through prisoner cells, officer quarters, gunrooms, mine chambers, exercise spaces, and cannons.

Address:  1400 Fort Pickens Rd, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561, United States

22. Key West

Key West

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It’s impossible not to think of Key West as one of the main cities to visit in Florida.

It’s actually the most western inhabited island in all of the United States.

As part of the Florida Keys, Key West is fun, vibrant, culturally rich, and packed with activities.

Streets are lined with bars, eateries, and stores that all give you more of a taste of Cuba than the state you’re in due to how near it is to the border.

While here, be sure to check out Duval Street (colorful and loved by tourists for its old buildings and Caribbean heritage), Mallory Square (a lovely spot full of street performers and great sunset views), the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory (for free-flying butterflies and exotic flowers), and the Key West lighthouse (that rises 65 feet into the air and provides great ocean views).

If you’re going to spend more time in Key West, don’t forget to check out some of the best Key West attractions !

23. Universal Studios

Universal Studios

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To talk about Florida and its tourist draws without mentioning Universal Studios is almost a crime!

Just like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios is a staple for pop culture-lovers.

Witness all your favorite moments from the entertainment world come to life right here in Florida!

To save money, it’s advisable that you purchase a multiday ticket in advance and plan your trip accordingly.

Universal Studios is often very crowded and busy, so you might also want the Universal Express Pass option on top of that, which lets you skip the line.

If you come back often, you can even get a season pass for super special treatment.

Address:  6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, United States

24. John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art

John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art

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The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art has a rather fun history and a tale that is more than worth it to explore.

John Ringling, a circus magnate, and entrepreneur, and his wife Mabel spent much of their fortune on this huge mansion that housed their art collection.

The Venetian-styled building in Sarasota is nothing short of beautiful and its contents were left to Florida when they passed away.

For a long time, the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art was sorely neglected.

At long last, though, the Florida State University received the rights to manage the museum by the state in the year 2000.

They raised funds to put in a Visitor’s Center and turn the estate into a lavish museum that focused not just on the art collection of the Ringlings, but also on artifacts pertaining to the life and times of the circus tycoon.

They also added a lovely rose garden to the grounds.

The art collection showcased here is rather eclectic, as it was the Ringlings’ own personal collection.

From Cypriot works to Old Masters, they are all displayed in this wonderfully restored structure.

At the circus museum, you can view a bit of an oxymoron – the planet’s largest circus miniature!

Address:  5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243, United States

Before you venture out, here’s what to do in Sarasota for a memorable vacation!

25. Delray Beach

Delray Beach

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Delray Beach isn’t actually a beach; rather, it’s a small coastal town situated in Miami.

It was founded by Seminoles and is the most peaceful little spot you’ll probably be able to find in that part of Florida.

After all, there’s a reason it’s called the Village by the Sea!

Delray Beach has a very bohemian feel to it and has a lot of energy in its streets, but it’s low-key and relaxing, leaving behind luxury for simplicity and charm.

If you walk through Atlantic Avenue, you’ll appreciate the delightful lights, and all throughout the town, quaint eateries, local shops, and quirky galleries await.

Bright beach stretching two miles, blissfully free from overcrowded stress, is another big draw.

Though it may not be as exciting as the rest of the state, Delray Beach is a must-see for anyone tired of the glam and glitz of Miami.

It’s got the greatest options for kicking back and relaxing!

26. Manatee Springs State Park

Manatee Springs State Park

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Manatee Springs is one of the most beautiful places in the state of Florida, located on the northwestern side.

It was named by William Bartram, a naturalist, in the 18th century after something surprisingly morbid for a place so gorgeous – after the carcass of a manatee, washed up along the Suwannee River.

Since its slightly sad beginnings, Manatee Springs has become a state park, and it continues to live up to its name in a much more positive way.

The springs stay at an even and warm temperature of 72º F throughout the entire year, so manatees swim up into the park for a spot of good temperature in the winter.

Speckled perch, alligators, and large-mouth bass also come here during the time.

Watching the activities of these animals is fun and thrilling, and if you go kayaking in the park, these animals often swim up to you and ask for pets!

You might even spot baby manatees, as the warm waters make for a great manatee nursery!

Address:  11650 NW 115 St, Chiefland, FL 32626, United States

27. Siesta Key

Siesta Key

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Siesta Key is probably most known for being a star of certain reality TV shows on MTV, but those shows painted an incorrect picture; in reality, Siesta Key is one of the best places to visit in Florida!

The island houses 8 miles of heavenly white sands and blue surf, and it was clearly chosen for a show centering on privilege and wealth simply because of its beauty and opulence.

A more low-key part of the island, and part of the reason it’s one of Florida’s coolest tourist attractions, is Siesta Key Village.

It’s like a blast from the past here and you’ll feel like you walked into a 1950s set!

Seafood eateries selling fresh catches daily, homemade ice cream parlors, and small cafes all make for a quaint and rustic experience.

The island may be small, but what it lacks in size, it certainly makes up for in flavor!

28. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens were once the estate (and villa) of the famous socialite and industrial executive James Deering – who was also a conservationist.

Originally, it covered 180 acres of land and was designed to conserve native forest and mangrove swamps.

Situated on Biscayne Bay in Coconut Grove, it’s a great spot for sightseeing and relaxation and is one of the Florida attractions that is sure to satisfy nature-lovers.

The main building was constructed between the years 1914 and 1916 and was used by Deering as a winter home upon completion.

Meanwhile, the rest of the home continued being built for seven more years until Deering passed away at sea.

His nieces then inherited the property, and they both decided to sell off parts of the estate in order to pay for the maintenance required on the rest of it.

Twenty years later, Miami’s Mercy Hospital and the Catholic Archdiocese of St. Augustine had a lot of the land donated to them.

Then, fifty acres surrounding the main building were purchased by the Miami-Dade County and restoration efforts led to the estate becoming a National Historic Landmark.

Now, it’s a mix of fun and picturesque with Italian Renaissance gardens, native woodland, and historic outbuildings that all make a tourist location and a host for ceremonies.

Address:  3251 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33129, United States

Destin

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Destin is one of the top Florida’s places to see, and that’s partly due to its nickname: the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.

Situated on the Florida Panhandle, it’s famous for gorgeous beaches, great fishing, and excellent golfing opportunities.

It was once a fishing town, but a connecting bridge caused its population to grow, and it is now home to at least 13,000 residents.

Need some ideas for ways to fill your time here?

Go to the Big Kahuna water park, walk on Destin Harbor Boardwalk, enrich yourself at the Destin History and Fishing Museum, immerse yourself in history at Fort Walton Mound, or get close to nature at Henderson Beach State Park.

If you’re going to be spending more time here, don’t forget to check out some incredible things to do in Destin, Florida !

30. Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

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The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is a fantastic and fun way for butterfly-lovers to get some excitement.

Hundreds upon hundreds of butterflies and moths enjoy a natural habitat of beautiful flowers.

There are also flamingos and other exotic birds from outside of Florida to gaze upon!

Head to the conservatory’s learning center to learn about metamorphosis and the life cycles of moths and butterflies, as well as how they eat, reproduce, and move.

There is also the Wings of Imagination art gallery that allows you to view vibrant technicolor renditions of butterfly-themed art.

So the next time you’re in Key West, Florida, be sure to drop by!

Address:  1316 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040, United States

31. Devil’s Den

Devil's Den

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Still asking about what to visit while in Florida?

The state is home to plenty of other sites of wonder and awe – like the Devil’s Den !

Located near Williston, Devil’s Den is an underground river that now has a cave entrance to the surface, thanks to the collapse of its roof.

In other words, this is a rare opportunity for visitors to go scuba-diving in a subterranean river.

The waters stay a balmy 72 degrees Fahrenheit all year round, so you’re reassured of a comfortable diving experience no matter the season.

It makes for a wonderful sight on cold winter mornings, where visitors can see the steam rising up from the river’s cave chimney!

Visitors will have to be serious divers and snorkelers, however.

Devil’s Den is a private scuba diving training and recreational facility that does not allow casual visitors, swimmers, pets, and children under the age of 6.

You – or a guardian, should you be under 18 – will also have to sign an insurance liability waiver upon entering the property as well.

Address:  5390 NE 180 Ave, Williston, FL 32696, United States

32. Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island

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Florida is home to all sorts of postcard-worthy beaches that are perfect for all sorts of fun activities.

Anna Maria Island, however, may just take the cake.

Located south of St. Petersburg, Florida, this island is seven miles long and full of scenic charm.

Visitors asking about what to see here will find that there’s plenty in the form of beautiful sunsets and untouched nature.

If you’re not enjoying a sunset with a grouper sandwich from a lounge chair on the docks, you ought to be snorkeling through Egmont Key or joining a kayaking tour.

Interested in marine biology?

The island is home to all sorts of stingrays, dolphins, and even manatees.

Additionally, history buffs will also find plenty to marvel at as well!

From abandoned shipwrecks to historic Spanish-American sea forts, there’s plenty to see and do on this quiet little island.

33. Coral Castle

Coral Castle

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Looking for a castle?

You don’t have to fly all the way to Europe for one.

Located in Florida is perhaps one of the most unorthodox locales on the list of famous places the state has to offer.

Originally named Rock Gate Park by its builder, the strange and wondrous castle is usually known these days as Coral Castle .

After he was jilted by his partner the day before their wedding, Latvian Ed Leedskalnin boarded one of the many ships to the US, where he eventually settled in Florida.

He evidently never got over his lost love, however, and tapped into his stonemason heritage to build Coral Castle.

Despite his height and weight of 5 feet and 100 pounds, Leedskalnin managed to cut, shape, and move blocks of Oolitic Limestone that weighed over 30 tons and were often over 25 feet tall – all for the construction of his monument of love.

The completed castle contains incredible things like a stone rocking chair and a 9-ton gate that, astonishingly, only needs a light touch to spin open.

Due to his secretive working habits, some have speculated that Leedskalnin may have used magic to build his castle.

Of course, the most reliable way to find out the truth is to check out the castle yourself!

Address:  28655 S Dixie Hwy, Homestead, FL 33033, United States

34. Amelia Island

Amelia Island

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The world is full of beautiful places – and Florida is home to some of them.

At the top of the list is Amelia Island, a hidden gem squirreled away into one of the chains of barrier islands that dot the East Coast.

Once home to roaming pirates, Amelia Island’s beaches are now better known for its idyllic scenery, quiet charm, and its shrimp industry.

Hop on over to enjoy nature at its most serene, or check out one of the many outdoor activities the island has to offer!

Want to experience more thrill? Located about 40 miles from Amelia Island, here are some Jacksonville attractions to not miss!

35. Fort Myers

Fort Myers

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War has left its mark on Florida, in a way that cannot be ignored or denied.

So it’s only natural that some of the best tourist attractions in the state include leftovers of that era of blood.

These days, however, visiting them is less of a depressing reminder.

Instead, it’s actually one of the many fun things to do in Florida!

Originally a fort constructed on the banks of Caloosahatchee River, Fort Myers these days is a modern commercial center with easy access to Florida’s famous beaches.

Once you’re done snorkeling, kayaking, swimming, or just plain relaxing, it’s a quick jaunt to the Imaginarium Science Center – an aquarium that doubles as a hands-on science museum!

Don’t worry if you’re a history or nature buff, either.

The city still has plenty to offer in those spots!

Try checking out the historic homes and buildings on the grounds, or one of the many wildlife and nature preserves in the general vicinity!

36. Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island

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One of the best things to do in Florida is to simply just lie down on a beach and enjoy the quiet sights and sounds of nature.

Sure, it might not sound super fun or exciting, but sometimes that’s just really all you need.

And Sanibel Island is more than capable of filling that need to do absolutely nothing!

Don’t want to lounge on a beach all day?

Don’t worry, there’s plenty of other things to do still.

You can try swimming, boating, and snorkeling in the pristine waters around the island, or consider combing the beaches for the abundant amount of seashells that wash up onto the beach.

Additionally, half of Sanibel Island is home to a massive mangrove forest, which houses some 245 different bird species – along with all sorts of animals, reptiles, and sea creatures native to the lands and seas of Florida!

37. Southernmost Point Buoy

Southernmost Point Buoy

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Looking for the southernmost point of the United States?

This massive concrete monument claims to mark the exact point!

In reality, this isn’t actually the case – Hawaii is actually located further south.

It’s still one of the many major Florida attractions the state has to offer, however, since it still works as a marker for the southernmost point of the continental US.

Located in Key West, Florida, the monument is surrounded by all sorts of themed hotels, inns, shops, bars, and gift shops that have sprung up to serve the tourism boom.

So despite it simply being a marker for a physical location, the space surrounding the monument is bustling with all sorts of activities!

It’s a good idea to go there first thing in the morning before the crowds start coming in.

Grab yourself a cup of Cuban coffee, then drive on down to check out the fascinating sight yourself!

Address:  Whitehead St &, South St, Key West, FL 33040, United States

38. Mount Dora

Mount Dora

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Don’t let its small size and quaint atmosphere fool you – Mount Dora is still jammed packed with all sorts of fun things to see and do.

Located near Orlando, the town is full of Old Florida charm – from its vintage clapboard houses to its antique handmade shops.

If you’re someone who loves exploring, this small town is for you.

Art, wine, spices, and knick-knacks line the streets here, and the shops are full of fascinating antiques.

It also happens to be close to other wonderful attractions – like some of the greatest natural swimming holes in Florida!

39. Seaside

Seaside

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If you’ve ever been a fan of The Truman Show, you may already have a point on your bucket list dedicated to visiting this locale in Florida.

Located between the well-known party towns of Destin and Panama City, Seaside is a quaint and idyllic town that genuinely is just as cozy as it appears in the movie.

Visitors dropping by this tranquil little town will find it to be a wonderful respite after traveling through the busier parts of Florida.

Here, you can enjoy the sight of pastel-colored homes lined up behind white picket fences, and a gorgeous example of the many beaches the state is famous for.

Seaside is also home to an annual concert that draws in some of the best musical artists from across the country.

If you’ve missed the date, however, not to worry – there’s still plenty of local shops and restaurants to visit, and even a fantastic farmer’s market!

40. Apalachicola

Apalachicola

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For those hunting down the “Old South” charm and history, one of the many points of interest the Florida Panhandle has to offer in that regard is Apalachicola.

And it’s not too hard to see why that’s the case!

Crammed full of preserved, historic homes and oak-lined streets, this small fishing village allows visitors to step back in time to see how beautiful Florida was when it was still overwhelmed with nature and greenery.

Additionally, visitors here will also get an opportunity to see and experience how the timber, oyster, and fishing industries are like on a ground level.

If you’re just looking for a quick retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, Apalachicola has got you covered too.

The town is surrounded by half a million acres of forest, and as such will envelop you in the tranquil peace nature has to offer!

Want to experience more thrill? Located about 199 miles from Apalachicola, here’s what to do in Pensacola ! 

41. St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg

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One of the best cities to visit in Florida is – hands down – St. Petersburg .

Thanks to its location on a peninsula, this modern city is lined with beautiful beaches from all sides.

So if you’re someone who loves kayaking, hiking, or camping on the beach, St. Petersburg – nicknamed “Sunshine City” – is the best place to be!

If the beaches are too full of beach-goers for your liking, however, don’t worry.

St. Petersburg is also home to fishing charters.

Hop down to the docks to watch fishermen at work, or to the nearby Locale Market for fresh seafood and local delights!

The city is also home to several world-class museums and sees all sorts of cultural, musical, and food-based events all year round.

Assuming you miss seeing any of these events, there’s still plenty of restaurants and pubs to comb through, a lively nightlife to check out!

42. Florida Museum of Natural History

Florida Museum of Natural History

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Of all the fun and unique tourist spots to visit in Florida, the last thing you’d expect to see on the list is a stuffy museum.

After all, what exciting activities could there be in such a place?

The Florida Museum of Natural History , however, may just change your mind.

Home to all sorts of incredible exhibits, the museum is a marvel to look at no matter what time of the year.

Drop by to check out all sorts of fossils, or even the butterfly rainforest exhibit!

Address:  3215 Hull Rd, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States

Want to explore Gainesville more? Here’s what to do in Gainesville !

43. International Drive

International Drive

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You might not have expected a driving down a thoroughfare to be one of the top cool things to do in Florida, but the International Drive is an exception to the rule.

Also known as the I-Drive, it serves as an 11 miles-long tourist strip full of all sorts of attractions.

It is essentially a theme park you can walk through!

Here, visitors can find all sorts of entertainment.

You can find mini-golf fields, live shows, an incredible assortment of dining options, and various shops.

The I-Drive is also home to a go-kart track, a museum, all kinds of amusement rides, escape rooms, and even an option to go on a helicopter ride!

Additionally, kids and adults alike will also find the waxwork museum and Ripley’s Believe it or Not! exhibition to be fascinating to visit.

All in all, the I-Drive is guaranteed to be a wonderful experience for friends and families visiting Florida!

Address: International Dr, Orlando, FL, United States

Naples

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Looking for fun on the coastline of Florida?

Then one of your must-see destinations is Naples !

With its gorgeous white beaches that stretch out for miles, Naples has rightfully earned its spot as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Florida.

Not a fan of sand?

The 1888 Naples Pier has got your back.

This iconic pier is a lively place, full of people fishing or keeping an eye out for the local marine life.

If you’re struggling to see anything but still want to check out the local wildlife, Naples Zoo may be the solution for you.

Located at the Caribbean Gardens, visitors can watch animals flocking onto various small islands dotting an artificial lake.

This is perfect for any nature lovers who are interested in checking out the regional wildlife making their homes here.

Additionally, there’s plenty of history and culture to be found here too!

45. Pirate & Treasure Museum

Pirate & Treasure Museum

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Ever had some pirate-themed vacation ideas you wanted to try out?

Florida is perfect for this goal, thanks to the St. Augustine’s Pirate and Treasure Museum .

Founded by Pat Croce, this museum features 48 different exhibits and one of the largest collections of authentic pirate artifacts in the world.

Some of the incredible things on display in this museum include the likes of Blackbeard’s blunderbuss and some of the original gold pieces retrieved from his ship.

The museum also has informative exhibits about the life of various buccaneers and the treasures and weapons they had collected during their life while raiding the coast of Florida.

The museum is also home to a treasure hunt that will certainly keep your kids entertained from room to room – though if you’d like, you can tap into your inner child and try hunting down said treasure yourself too!

Address:  12 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084, United States

46. WonderWorks

WonderWorks

WonderWorks is known to be one of the best places to visit in Florida if you have kids, and it’s easy to see why.

This fun theme park is one-of-a-kind and can be found nowhere else save in Florida.

And it’s easy to spot too – it looks like a building that has been uprooted and deposited upside-down!

Children will find this educational theme park to be an exciting and thrilling experience.

The themed exhibits combine science shows with hands-on exhibits and physical challenge zones, allowing children to run through the place and bodily learn about the science and the world around them – all while having a blast!

The museum is located on the famous International Drive – so if you’re already there, visiting it is just one of the many things you can do while exploring the entertainment and theme park strip!

Address:  9067 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819, United States

47. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

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While the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens are now one of the best Florida attractions the state has to offer, it didn’t have the most straightforward history.

It was established in 1906 by George Morikami, a 19-year-old who was one of the many Japanese farmers hoping to cultivate pineapples in South Florida.

After his death, the nearby city of Delray Beach became a sister city to Miyazu in Morikami’s honor, and his farmland transformed into a tranquil Japanese oasis.

Full of manicured gardens and informative exhibits, the gardens will certainly soothe the minds and souls of all who visit!

Address:  4000 Morikami Park Rd, Delray Beach, FL 33446, United States

48. Naval Aviation Museum

Naval Aviation Museum

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In need of informative entertainment for the aviation buff in your life?

Perhaps the Naval Aviation Museum is just what you need.

Located in Pensacola, this museum is one of the best places to go to if you’re looking for a fun way to learn more about naval aviation – both its history and its present.

Here, visitors get to explore the inside guts of various airplanes and experience what it’s like to be inside each and every single one of the 150 aircrafts they have on display – including helicopters and biplanes!

Additionally, the museum is home to a flight simulator that allows visitors of all ages to try being a naval pilot exploring the skylines of Florida.

The museum has a wide-screen theatre that screens all sorts of aviation films, which is great for those who have an interest in film as well.

Otherwise, there’s plenty of exhibits that chronicle the history of various branches of military aviation as well!

Address:  1750 Radford Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32508, United States

49. Seacrest Wolf Preserve

Seacrest Wolf Preserve

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Lovers of wolves take note – while Florida has all sorts of fascinating locales, this may just be one of the many cool places you will have to visit.

Founded in 1999 by a husband and wife duo, the Seacrest Wolf Preserve is the only one of its kind in the entirety of Florida.

The preserve is predominantly home to timber wolves and arctic wolves, who were originally bred as captive animals and therefore cannot be returned to the wild.

Here in Florida, they are cared for alongside all sorts of other animals, and are part of the outreach to educate the public about healthy wild wolf populations in a fun and engaging manner!

So if you’re looking for a nice and educational experience for yourself and your loved ones, the Seacrest Wolf Preserve is the perfect place for you!

Address:  3449 Bonnett Pond Rd, Chipley, FL 32428, United States

50. Florida Caverns State Park

Florida Caverns State Park

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The Florida Caverns State Park is an incredible option for where to visit if you like nature and geology.

It offers one of the most unorthodox kinds of nature tours in the state: a delve into a limestone cave network in Marianna.

These caverns are subterranean and rich with flowstones, stalagmites, and stalactites.

There’s a surreal sort of aura about them that makes them feel almost like works of art – impressive, considering the caves originally began their formation a whopping 38 million years ago!

In fact, the caves all began life underwater.

Sediments, coral, and more hardened into limestone with the drop of water levels.

Those who choose this state park in what to do will be able to spot things like remains and fossils in the walls, such as shark teeth, fish vertebrae, and even a nautilus or two.

For more ways to pass the time after exploration, check out the state park’s nine-hole golf course!

Address:  3345 Caverns Rd, Marianna, FL 32446, United States

If you’ve got more time, don’t forget to check out some fun things to do in Tallahassee , located about 70 miles from Florida Caverns State Park!

51. Cassadaga

Cassadaga

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Cassadaga isn’t one of the more conventional tourist places to travel for visitors to Florida, but for those who like the wacky or strange, it’s a fun stop.

It is a spiritualist camp founded by George Colby, a medium, in 1875, with the aid of Lily Dale, New York spiritualist community members.

It began its life as part of the homestead grant land given to Colby.

At first, Cassadaga only spanned 35 acres, but now, it reaches 57 acres, with a total of 55 homes set up within.

Residents are typically mediums, psychics, or similar spiritualists who provide palm reading, seances, and more from within their homes.

The atmosphere is very much a departure from typical Florida and it’s an intriguing place, no matter which way you look at it.

While is Cassadaga, try to attend a Sunday Service, which is preceded by a healing service, or check out their bookstore to learn more about their beliefs.

Though it’s quite outlandish, Cassadaga is worth the visit, as it’s officially on the National Register of Historic Places as a Historic District.

52. Sunken Gardens

Sunken Gardens

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The Sunken Gardens only exist in Florida now because of the actions of one man named George Turner, Sr., a local plumber.

He purchased the land that would become this garden in 1903 along the outskirts of St. Petersburg, Florida.

On the land was a lake spanning four acres, and Turner, as a gardener, wanted to access the fertile soil at the 15-foot-deep base of the lake for his garden activities.

He used his knowledge as a plumber to drain the lake and then, once he completed this task, set about creating a garden that would soon be one of the state’s most popular places.

In the humidity and fertility, Turner planted citrus trees and vegetables.

In the years that followed, he would add all sorts of tropical plants, useful walkways, and even tropical birds.

He funded all of this through purchases made by residents who paid for his fruit and vegetables.

Likely seeing a lucrative opportunity, the family of Turners bought the Sanitary Public Market building next door and converted it into the World’s Largest Gift Shop, among other things.

After interest dropped and the gardens became neglected, they were saved as a historic landmark by the town of St. Petersburg – and that’s how they got where they are today!

If you visit, make sure to stop by the Cactus Garden, the butterfly courtyard, and the flamingo flock.

You’ll love the lush greenery and tropical vibes that speak so truly of Florida’s nature!

Address:  1825 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704, United States

53. Stetson Mansion

Stetson Mansion

Ebyabe / CC BY-SA

Stetson Mansion is among the best opulent destinations in Florida.

It’s often referred to as the grandest, biggest, and most historic house of its kind built in the state prior to the 20th century.

Going on a tour of the mansion and learning of its history is one of the fun things to do in Florida.

You’ll learn about John B. Stetson, the hat mogul who lived here, and how Thomas Edison installed the very first kind of electricity here for Stetson!

Address:  1031 Camphor Ln, DeLand, FL 32720, United States

54. Bulow Plantation Ruins

Bulow Plantation Ruins

Richard345 / Shutterstock

The Bulow Plantation Ruins were created by Charles Wilhelm Bulow, who purchased a shocking 9,000 acres of land here to form his estate, named Bulow Ville – or, now, Bulow Plantation.

The ruins are now a part of Florida State Parks, having come a long way since its 19th-century origins.

Bulow used the land to grow indigo, sugarcane, rice, and cotton.

Everything about the location and land was convenient for his cause.

He used 300 slaves to clear the forested portion that encircled the plantation, but he died two years later and was succeeded by his 16-year-old son.

The Florida Wars raged not long after and the local militia removed Bulow from the property so they could use its strength as an operational base.

Unfortunately, they were attacked and the plantation was burned down after just 15 years of life.

If you’re into site seeing the eerie, visiting the few remnants of the Bulow Plantation is a fun endeavor and a surefire must do.

Address: 3501 Old Kings Road, Flagler Beach, FL 32136, United States

55. Warm Mineral Springs

Warm Mineral Springs

Warm Mineral Springs

The Warm Mineral Springs are located in Florida’s North Port within a sinkhole left behind by a subterranean cavern collapse that occurred more than 30,000 years prior.

A vent 200 feet below surface level is the water source, with over 20 million gallons of water – warm and mineralized – pumped out from it daily.

The geothermal water enjoys a heat of about 97 degrees, cooled to 85 degrees, and makes for a good place to add to vacation ideas in Florida.

There’s also something eerie to add to the top of this list of uniqueness – the artifacts and bones of seven individuals and a 10,000-year-old log were found by William Royal, an archeologist, in the 1950s.

The Warm Mineral Springs are not a health spa of sorts, with many rushing to bathe in the “healing” mineral waters.

The natural spa facility allows you to relax in the water as long as you respect its archeological cruciality.

Address:  12200 San Servando Ave, North Port, FL 34287, United States

56. Spook Hill

Spook Hill

Inspired By Maps / Shutterstock

Looking for unique things to do while in Florida?

Check out Spook Hill in Lake Wales, which has proudly earned its unusual name thanks to the many legends that surround it.

Spook Hill is also called “gravity hill” or “magnetic hill” because any cars placed in neutral here will give off the appearance of going uphill.

Some legends state that the hill is haunted and responsible for the anti-gravity nature of the Florida hill.

Check it for yourself for the fun of it and see what you think!

Address: N. Wales Dr., Lake Wales, FL 33853, United States

57. Ellaville

Ellaville

Don Barrett / flickr

Ellaville is a town that dates back to the civil war era, and it did very well in this spot up until about the 19th century.

It was founded by businessman George Drew, who would go onto become the first post-Reconstruction Florida governor.

It was named after his African-American servant Ella.

The construction of a sawmill in Ellaville in this part of Florida drew people into the town as it employed over 500 workers.

Eventually, a dock, station, schools, churches, lodge, and more were built in the booming town that would one day become one of many Florida attractions.

Unfortunately, after finding political success, Drew sold much of his shares in local companies and left Ellaville.

The mill burned down in 1898, and rebuilding took up pinewood resources needed for harvest.

Flooding, the Great Depression, and the eventual post office closure led to the town’s demise.

If you head to Ellaville now, you’ll see that little of it is left standing, but strangely, some once-abandoned homes are occupied again.

It’s worth the treat of walking through the town if you like abandoned places and history!

Address: Madison, FL 32340, United States

58. Ancient Spanish Monastery

Ancient Spanish Monastery

Mariusz Lopusiewicz / Shutterstock

The Ancient Spanish Monastery of Florida doesn’t really have an official name, but it’s one of the state’s definitely tourist draw sites because of the three Spanish cloisters that make it up.

These cloisters were built between 1133 and 1141 AD and served as a Cistercian monastery’s structure for 700 years until the 1830s when the cloisters were seized in the First Carlist War.

The cloisters were then turned into a grainery.

Eventually, Florida was sold by Spain to America in 1819, and a man named William Randolph Hearst took great interest in the cloisters and purchased them in 1925.

He then took them apart stone by stone into 11,000 boxes to ship them to his California home, but the boxes were all quarantined and the stones messed up in the process of checking them.

After Heart’s passing, the cloisters were finally reconstructed in Florida with the goal of becoming a fun tourist hotspot.

After 19 months of hard work determining what stones went where, labor paid off, and now this monastery is one of the places to go for history lovers!

Address:  16711 W Dixie Hwy, North Miami Beach, FL 33160, United States

59. The Kampong

The Kampong

The Kampong

Known to be one of the best vacation spots in the world , The Kampong is technically one of five gardens that make up a huge national botanical garden, but this garden is the only one located in Florida while the rest reside in Hawaii.

The Kampong is a tropical garden that benefits greatly from the monsoon climate of Miami, allowing for a laboratory of horticulture and lush nature.

The Kampong can be found in Coconut Grove and is one of the best places in Florida to get your fill of a natural paradise.

Originally, it was an estate that belonged to the famous plant explorer Dr. David Fairchild.

Fairchild brought over 200,000 different kinds of exotic plants, and he named the grounds after a Javanese word, borrowed from the English word “compound”, that means an enclosed village.

If you add visiting the Kampong to your list of what to do, you’ll stroll through thick foliage and meticulously planted cultivars for all kinds of tropical flora, like carambola, avocados, bananas, mangos, and more.

It’s a great and fun way to experience a world that simultaneously feels integral to and completely separate from Florida, all at once!

Address:  4013 Douglas Rd, Miami, FL 33133, United States

60. Castle Otttis

Castle Otttis

MarkWalters at English Wikipedia / Public domain

Castle Otttis is one of the most interesting places to explore in Florida – and that mysterious air of it is even more intensified by the fact that only private tours can be arranged on the privately-owned property.

The castle, inspired by millennia-old Irish castles, was designed with the intention of being open to the elements as a “landscape sculpture” by builders Ottis Sadler and Rusty Ickes.

The castle, which is intentionally spelled with three “t”s, rises over 50 feet into the air.

Its creators’ goal was to make artwork invoking a mix of Christian and Irish influences and they completed it themselves, never intending for it to become a business or residence of any kind.

The exterior boasts a 7 million pound split face facade with 88 openings, ramparts, and reinforced steel rods.

The interior, which took three years to finish, boasts southern heart-pine and cypress wood creations – staircases, pews, a bishop’s chair, a pulpit, a choir loft, and an altar.

Castle Otttis sits in St. Augustine, Florida, just along the shoreline and is officially American Institute of Architects recognized.

Events are often held here, and though it’s not a conventional fun type of location, it’s still worth a sightseeing visit for the sheer magnitude of the effort and artistic inspiration involved.

Address:  103 3rd St, St. Augustine, FL 32084, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Florida

Apart from being one of the most beautiful states , Florida is such an interesting place, offering some of the best bucket list-worthy attractions you’ll find in the country.

No matter what you’re interested in, there’s no shortage of fun vacation spots for adults, for children, and for families.

With such a vibrant community, there’s also something to enjoy in Florida, whether you plan a trip for tomorrow, this weekend, this week, or beyond.

Hopefully, this list of the best things to do in Florida has helped you figure out which of its many locations is at the top of your to-visit plans!

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10 Best Places to Visit in Florida

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When most people think of Florida, they think of sunshine, theme parks, orange juice and alligators. But this former Spanish colony, which became the 27th state to enter the Union, is much more than that.

Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other, it has mile upon mile of white sand beaches. This is the US state where you’ll find Miami and its immediate neighbor Miami Beach – both famous for their Art Deco architecture, Cuban culture, and beaches, of course.

More sun, sea, and sand can be had in the south, where the Florida Keys fling themselves for around 120 miles along the Florida Straits. Come here for more beaches, scuba diving, snorkeling, and the potential for one of the most picturesque road trips ever, thanks to the feat of engineering that is the Overseas Highway.

There’s also Cape Canaveral, home of NASA, but then again there’s Orlando, too – famous for its sheer amount of amusement parks, including Disney World. Here’s a look at the best places to visit in Florida:

10. Panama City Beach [SEE MAP]

Panama City Beach

Panama City Beach on the Florida panhandle offers 27 miles (43 km) of white sand beaches on the Emerald Coast. The beach is a popular destination for residents of the southern United States as well as tens of thousands of high school and college students on spring break.

Besides having fun in the sun in the emerald green waters, this town of just over 12,000 permanent residents offers sports fishing on the gulf, plenty of golfing, marine parks including one for alligators, amusement and water parks …in short, something for everyone in the family.

9. Naples [SEE MAP]

Naples

Naples may have had rustic beginnings, but today this Gulf of Mexico city is one of the wealthiest cities in the United States, with houses selling for more than $40 million. As on Sanibel and Captiva Islands, development along the shoreline has been kept residential.

It got its name because the bay it’s located on was said to be prettier than the Bay of Naples in Italy. Besides its beautiful city beach, the nearby wildlife refuges make it a popular tourist destination.

These include Everglades National Park, Florida Panther National Wildlife Reserve and Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary that has a 2.5-mile long boardwalk meandering through it. Naples also has vibrant arts and shopping districts.

8. Sanibel Island [SEE MAP]

Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island is located just off Fort Myers in the Gulf of Mexico. It is connected to the mainland by a causeway. It is known as a quiet, natural travel destination, well-suited for families.

Wildlife refuges take up more than half of this long narrow island, whose beaches are also popular as places to hunt for shells. This island of less than 7,000 permanent residents may have harbored pirates in the days of yore, if local legends are to be believed.

Aside from beachcombing and looking for wildlife, attractions include a highly-rated historical museum, a botanical garden, a lighthouse and an arts center.

7. Fort Lauderdale [SEE MAP]

Fort Lauderdale

No longer the Spring Break destination of popular imagination, Fort Lauderdale is today a sophisticated cultural center with an increasingly upmarket social scene. Located on the Atlantic Ocean about 23 miles (37 km) north of Miami Beach it is also known as the “Venice of America” due to its expansive canal system.

The city has an impressive tourist infrastructure with plenty of hotels, golf courses, marinas and museums. The city’s Port Everglades is one of the busiest cruise-ship ports in the world, with megaships departing daily for the Caribbean, Mexico and beyond.

The most popular section of the city beach is called “The Strip” with eating and drinking establishments that run along the land side of the beach road.

6. Clearwater Beach [SEE MAP]

Clearwater Beach

Boasting miles of white sandy beaches, Clearwater Beach is separated by the city of Clearwater by the Intracoastal Waterway. USA Today readers in 2013 named it Florida’s Best Beach Town. Besides laying in the white sand and swimming in the clear water there are also many activities offered such as fishing, sailing, kayaking, and dolphin tours. A lot of people get married on the beaches here.

A spot popular with visitors is Pier 60, a long fishing pier that hosts a playground, snack bar and day-long entertainers. At night, you can buy crafts from local artisans.

Stroll along Beach Walk where you’ll find drinking fountains and showers to wash the sand off you. If you come alive when the sun goes down, Clearwater Beach has a lively night scene.

5. Everglades [SEE MAP]

Everglades

One of the country’s best natural treasures, the Everglades feature a unique combination of ecosystems that include swamps, sub-tropical jungles, saw-grass prairies and the largest mangrove complex in the Western Hemisphere.

Located in South Florida, much of the Everglades are protected within the Everglades National Park and provide shelter to a wide variety of birds, fish, animals and reptiles, including endangered species like the West Indian manatee, the American crocodile and the Florida panther.

One of the largest national parks in the USA, the Everglades National Park features four different visitor centers that provide education about the Everglades as well as a variety of tours and outstanding experiences.

Among the most popular of these is the Shark Valley Visitor Center, which in addition to educational displays, offers tram tours with opportunities to spot wildlife such as alligators, turtles, deer and herons. Also located at Shark Valley is an observation tower that presents fantastic views.

From the Gulf Coast Visitor Center, visitors can arrange boat tours to the Ten Thousand Islands, a labyrinth of mangrove islands, viewing manatees, dolphins and pelicans along the way. Also from the Gulf Coast Visitor Center, visitors can rent canoes and kayaks to explore the Everglades on self-guided tours.

The visitor centers of Ernest Coe and Flamingo also offer ranger-led tours and programs. An air boat tour is one of the most exciting ways to experience the Everglades. What’s more, numerous hiking trails, biking trails and fishing are also available within the national park.

4. Tampa Bay Area [SEE MAP]

Tampa Bay Area

The Tampa Bay area, on the Gulf of Mexico, includes Tampa Bay, a large natural harbor and several popular cities, including Tampa and St. Petersburg . Tampa is home to the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Family-oriented activities include Busch Gardens, a theme park said to have Florida’s best roller coaster rides as well as a zoo dedicated to animals from Africa’s Serengeti Plain.

As for beachcombing, St. Pete Beach can’t be beat. It was named the best beach in the United States and fifth in the world by TripAdvisor readers in 2012 because of its white sand beaches and clear water.

3. Orlando [SEE MAP]

Orlando

Orlando is theme-park city, having more theme parks than any place else in the world. There’s Walt Disney World, Epcot Center, Universal Studios, SeaWorld and Gator Park, to name a few, all of which bring 51 million visitors a year to this central Florida city of 2 million people.

This Sunbelt city doesn’t get hit by hurricanes as much as other parts of the state, which makes it a popular place to visit in Florida. One of American’s most visited cities, Orlando is also home to the University of Central Florida, which has the second largest college enrollment in the United States.

2. Miami [SEE MAP]

Miami

One of the most vibrant cities in the USA, Miami is best known for its Latin culture and sizzling nightlife. Located in southeastern Florida off the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, Miami is also a major port city managing the world’s largest number of passenger cruise ships.

Attracting tourists from all over the planet, Miami is a melting pot of ethnic cultures with a wide array of exciting attractions and activities. One of Miami’s main draws is its sunny beaches that range from family friendly to party scenes. Across the bay from Miami on a barrier island is Miami Beach, known for its Art Deco architecture and glamorous South Beach.

See also: Where to Stay in Miami

1. Florida Keys [SEE MAP]

#1 of Best Places To Visit In Florida

The Florida Keys are a 120 mile long chain of tropical islands curving around the base of the Florida peninsula, connected to the mainland by a series of bridges. The most spectacular bridge, the Seven Mile Bridge in the Lower Keys, has been frequently used as a location for films including True Lies and Fast 2 Furious.

US Highway 1, the “Overseas Highway” runs from Key Largo, Islamadora, Marathon, Lower Keys and finally to Key West , the most distant and most famous of the Florida Keys. The waters surrounding the archipelago are protected by a marine sanctuary and contain many aquatic species and coral reef.

The islands are categorized in groups of Upper, Middle and Lower Keys. Beginning at Key Largo , the Upper Keys are where tourists will find a wider variety of accommodation, shopping, dining and nightlife. The Middle Keys and Lower Keys feature a more quiet and remote atmosphere.

Key Largo is the first Key reached on the Overseas Highway and is home to the underwater Christ of the Abyss statue, which can be observed by divers and snorkelers. Another of the larger Keys, Big Pine is where tourists can see the knee-high whitetail deer.

Islamorada Key is touted as the “Sport Fishing Capital of the World” as well as a popular diving spot. Located on Vaca Key, Marathon is popular for its tourist amenities and facilities as well as the Seven-Mile Bridge. At the southernmost point of the United States is Key West, which features the former home of author, Ernest Hemingway.

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April 3, 2018 at 7:56 am

What about Palm Beach it’s not listed? Also north Myrtle beach condo stays on the beach

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January 16, 2018 at 9:17 pm

Saint Augustine, is amazing, beautiful

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November 1, 2017 at 7:02 am

Florida is the best. On my way soon. Would like to spend the rest of my life there.

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March 21, 2016 at 7:44 pm

I would visit Disney!!!!!

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20 Best Places to Visit In Florida (2024 Guide)

Looking for the best places to visit in Florida? Here are 20 of our top destinations in the Sunshine State!

Florida is one of the most gorgeous states in the USA. If you love beaches, wildlife, and laid-back, coastal living, a visit to Florida is a must!

But you may be wondering, what are the best places to visit in Florida?

To make your trip a breeze, we’ve compiled a list of the top destinations in the state. There is truly something for everyone in Florida!

Whether you’re on a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a fun trip with friends, Florida is the perfect place for you.

Broaden your mind at Universal Studios, Disney World, or the other world-class theme parks of Central Florida. Lounge on the white sandy beaches of Sanibel Island, Clearwater, West Palm Beach, or the Florida Keys.

Experience the excitement of big cities like Miami or Tampa. There is no shortage of amazing places to visit in Florida!

Check out our perfect 3 Days In Miami Itinerary to get you started!

Table of Contents

Clearwater Beach

Fort lauderdale, st. augustine, everglades national park, daytona beach, cocoa beach, sanibel island, st. petersburg, panama city, west palm beach, wrapping up, 20 best places to visit in florida.

Though there is a seemingly endless list of gorgeous beaches and charming towns in the Sunshine State, here is our list of the absolute best places to visit in Florida.

From the iconic theme parks of Orlando and Tampa Bay to the white sand beaches of the Florida Keys, these gems of Florida are well worth a place on any traveler’s bucket list!

The iconic city of Miami is definitely one of the best places to visit in Florida. Renowned for its stunning beaches that stretch along the cerulean waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Miami beckons both locals and visitors with its year-round warm climate.

The city of Miami itself is composed of multiple unique parts, from the barrier island of Miami Beach to the museums and eateries of the downtown area. Miami Beach is home to some of the top Florida beaches, including Surfside, Mid Beach, and South Beach.

South Beach is not only one of the best beaches in Miami, it’s the most exciting neighborhood. Full of captivating Art Deco architecture and pulsing nightclubs, South Beach is a great place to begin any Miami Beach experience.

As you head inland from Miami Beach, you’ll find the city’s cultural mosaic is further enriched by its thriving art scene, bustling nightlife, and world-class dining options that cater to a myriad of tastes.

Downtown Miami serves as the dynamic core of this sun-soaked city. Skyscrapers like the iconic Freedom Tower and the futuristic Pérez Art Museum Miami adorn the skyline, reflecting both historical significance and contemporary creativity.

Head to Little Havana to experience the Latin American culture that is a vital part of Miami’s energy. Or go for a little day trip out to Biscayne National Park.

Whether you’re looking for culture, nightlife, or beaches, Miami has it all.

Miami Beach

Key West , the southernmost gem of the Florida Keys, evokes an idyllic tropical paradise that has captivated travelers for generations. With its laid-back atmosphere, quirky charm, and stunning natural beauty, Key West offers a unique escape from the ordinary.

The historic Old Town district exudes a sense of timelessness, where pastel-hued Victorian homes, charming cottages, and cobblestone streets transport visitors to a bygone era.

One of the town’s most famous residents, the renowned author Ernest Hemingway, left his mark with his former home now preserved as a museum, complete with its famous six-toed cats.

Key West’s iconic Duval Street is a lively hub of activity, lined with eclectic boutiques, art galleries, bustling bars, and vibrant street performers, creating a vibrant energy that is quintessentially Key West.

Beyond its charming streets, Key West boasts a rich maritime heritage and is a gateway to a world of aquatic adventure.

The crystal-clear waters that surround the island offer amazing snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and dolphin-watching , with picturesque sunsets transforming the seascape into a breathtaking spectacle. Head out to Dry Tortugas National Park for even more outdoor adventures in the Florida Keys.

As the southernmost point in the continental United States, Key West’s Southernmost Point Buoy is a popular photo spot, marking the proximity to Cuba and serving as a symbol of the town’s unique geographical position.

With its blend of historic charm, natural wonders, and relaxed ambiance, Key West remains one of the best places to visit in Florida.

One of the best places in Central Florida for a family vacation is Orlando , thanks to its world-class amusement parks. Orlando is a captivating playground that entices millions of visitors with its enchanting blend of world-famous theme parks, cultural diversions, and a growing urban landscape.

The city’s crown jewel, Walt Disney World Resort, stands as a sprawling wonderland of imagination and magic, where iconic characters and enchanting attractions come to life. From the Magic Kingdom to Discovery Cove, Disney World has become the most famous theme park in the world.

In addition to Walt Disney World, the incredible theme park of Universal Studios is a highlight for people of all ages. This sprawling theme park offers an immersive experience, inviting visitors to step into the worlds of beloved films through cutting-edge attractions, shows, and interactive adventures.

Orlando also embraces its cultural side with a burgeoning arts scene, hosting theaters, galleries, and museums that offer a taste of creativity and expression.

The city’s dynamic growth is evident in its downtown core, where modern skyscrapers harmonize with a range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, reflecting a city that has evolved into a dynamic metropolis while still preserving its role as a family-friendly destination.

Whether you’re enjoying the theme parks or diving into the city’s entertainment scene, Orlando is one of the top places for a Florida vacation.

Find more fun activities with our list of the best things to do in Orlando !

Nestled along the stunning Gulf Coast of Florida, Clearwater Beach is a highlight of the Sunshine State. Known for its powdery white sands and crystalline turquoise waters, this coastal gem offers an idyllic escape from the daily grind.

Visitors can bask in the warm embrace of the Florida sun, engage in beachside activities like volleyball or paddleboarding, or simply unwind to the gentle lull of the waves.

Clearwater Beach Pier 60 is a vibrant focal point, hosting nightly sunset celebrations where locals and tourists gather to witness the sun’s fiery descent beneath the horizon, casting a breathtaking spectacle that paints the sky with a kaleidoscope of hues.

Clearwater Beach also offers a charming blend of coastal culture and modern amenities. The lively Beach Walk Promenade is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, inviting visitors to savor delectable seafood, explore unique boutiques, and indulge in vibrant nightlife.

Families can embark on marine adventures, spotting dolphins on boat tours or visiting the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where the famous rescued dolphin, Winter, resides.

Nature enthusiasts will find solace in Caladesi Island State Park , accessible by ferry, which provides a sanctuary of untouched wilderness, showcasing mangrove forests, pristine beaches, and diverse birdlife.

With its captivating blend of natural beauty and leisurely activities, Clearwater Beach beckons travelers to unwind and create cherished memories along its tranquil shores.

Clearwater Beach

Fort Lauderdale is a vibrant Florida city that marks another one of the best places to visit in the Sunshine State. Often referred to as the “Venice of America,” the city is crisscrossed by a network of picturesque canals and waterways, lending it a unique charm.

Fort Lauderdale Beach, with its golden sands and azure waters, beckons sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts alike, while the bustling Beachfront Promenade offers a captivating array of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.

The city’s historic Riverwalk district winds along the New River, showcasing a blend of art galleries, museums, and upscale boutiques, providing a delightful blend of relaxation and urban exploration.

Fort Lauderdale is also packed with art, culture, and entertainment that is perfect for any Florida vacation. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts hosts a variety of shows and performances, ranging from Broadway productions to symphony orchestras, while the NSU Art Museum showcases an impressive collection of contemporary and modern art.

Las Olas Boulevard, a chic thoroughfare lined with charming cafes, galleries, and boutiques, epitomizes the city’s sophistication and cosmopolitan flair. For nature lovers, the Everglades are within easy reach, offering opportunities for airboat rides and wildlife encounters in this unique wetland ecosystem.

With its seamless fusion of beachside relaxation, cultural enrichment, and outdoor adventures, Fort Lauderdale appeals to visitors of all ages.

Steeped in history and brimming with Old World charm, St. Augustine , Florida, stands as a living testament to the United States’ colonial past.

As the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the country, St. Augustine exudes an enchanting aura that harkens back to its Spanish origins.

The city’s cobblestone streets wind through a maze of centuries-old architecture, where historic landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos, a formidable stone fortress, and the slender spires of the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine stand as silent witnesses to a bygone era.

Quaint boutiques, art galleries, and inviting cafes line the narrow lanes of St. George Street, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a rich tapestry of culture and heritage.

Nestled along the Atlantic coast, St. Augustine’s beautiful beaches offer a serene contrast to its historic district. With sandy shores stretching as far as the eye can see and gentle waves caressing the coast, the beaches provide a tranquil retreat for relaxation and water-based activities.

A stroll along the St. Augustine Beach Pier rewards visitors with panoramic ocean views and the opportunity to witness stunning sunrises or sunsets.

Whether exploring the intricate details of its colonial architecture or soaking in the sun’s warm embrace on its sandy shores, St. Augustine is a captivating vacation destination in Florida!

Read next: 20 Best Things To Do In St. Augustine

Another one of the best places to visit in Florida is Everglades National Park , a World Heritage Site filled with natural wonders. This sprawling and iconic wilderness location in southern Florida is a mesmerizing sanctuary that unveils the delicate interplay between water, land, and life.

Spanning over 1.5 million acres, the park encompasses a unique subtropical ecosystem teeming with diverse flora and fauna. Its vast expanse of sawgrass prairies, freshwater sloughs, mangrove forests, and coastal marshes serves as a vital habitat for countless species, including the elusive Florida panther and the charismatic American alligator.

As visitors traverse the park’s network of trails, waterways, and observation points, they are granted glimpses into the intricate web of life that thrives within this dynamic landscape.

Beyond its ecological wonders, Everglades National Park offers a captivating opportunity to connect with nature and explore its unspoiled beauty.

Adventurers can embark on exhilarating airboat rides that skim across the water’s surface, revealing the unique topography of the “River of Grass.”

Kayaking and canoeing adventures allow for immersive encounters with the park’s hidden corners, where the calls of wading birds and the rustling of wildlife create a symphony of the wild.

The park’s preservation efforts are a testament to its significance, striving to protect the delicate balance of this intricate ecosystem and educate visitors about the importance of conservation.

Everglades National Park offers travelers the chance to explore one of the country’s most remarkable and fragile environments and is a must-visit for those who love nature and wildlife.

Florida Everglades

Daytona Beach , a bustling city on Florida’s Atlantic coast, is renowned for its blend of exciting attractions, stunning shores, and a rich racing heritage.

Best known for its wide expanse of hard-packed sand, Daytona Beach has been a legendary hub for beach driving and racing for over a century.

The city’s iconic Daytona International Speedway stands as a mecca for motorsports enthusiasts, hosting legendary events like the Daytona 500 and offering thrilling experiences like driving a high-performance vehicle on the track.

Beyond the racetrack, the Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier invite visitors to indulge in classic seaside amusements, from arcade games to Ferris wheel rides, while the vibrant Oceanwalk Shoppes offers a diverse range of shopping and dining options, all within earshot of the crashing waves.

Nature enthusiasts find solace in the scenic beauty that envelops Daytona Beach. The nearby Tomoka State Park presents a serene retreat where hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking unveil a tapestry of Florida’s native habitats.

The tranquil Halifax River, which runs parallel to the coastline, is a haven for boaters and fishing enthusiasts seeking a more laid-back aquatic experience. Whether one seeks the thrill of high-speed racing or the relaxation of sun-soaked shores, Daytona Beach presents an invigorating and diverse destination that captures the essence of Florida’s captivating coastal lifestyle.

Read Next: Don’t miss out on these other great Daytona Beach activities !

The Tampa Bay area, nestled in Florida’s Gulf Coast, is another one of the best places to visit in Florida. Filled with white sand beaches, incredible amusement parks, and neighborhoods filled with architecture, cuisine, nightlife, and art, Tampa Bay offers endless wonders for a Florida vacation.

Those looking for theme parks can visit Busch Gardens, a top-notch theme park and zoo hybrid that has rides, animals, and entertainment options.

Travelers who want to explore outdoors can walk along the Riverwalk, bike down Bayshore Boulevard, kayak across the Hillsborough River, or lounge on the beaches of Davis Island.

Hyde Park offers peaceful gardens, quaint streets lined with greenery, and weekend farmer’s markets. Or you can head to Ybor City to check out some historic architecture, Cuban restaurants, and nightclubs.

Another highlight of Tampa is the sports scene! Catch a Buccaneers football game, a Tampa Bay Rays baseball game, or a Tampa Bay Lightning hockey game.

Tampa is a vibrant Florida city, and the entire Tampa Bay area offers an abundance of epic attractions and opportunities for adventure on the Gulf Coast.

Check out our list of the best day trips from Tampa for more fun ideas in the area!

Situated on Florida’s Space Coast, Cocoa Beach is a captivating seaside town that marries the allure of the ocean with the wonders of space exploration.

With its golden sands and inviting waves, Cocoa Beach is a haven for beachgoers and surf enthusiasts, offering endless opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and riding the Atlantic’s waves.

The iconic Cocoa Beach Pier juts into the horizon, lined with charming shops, restaurants, and fishing spots, where visitors can cast a line and soak in panoramic ocean views.

Beyond the shoreline, the nearby Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex allows visitors to delve into the history of space travel, offering an immersive experience that celebrates human achievement and the marvels of science and technology.

Surf shops and laid-back beach bars embody the town’s relaxed atmosphere, while the annual Ron Jon Beach ‘N Boards Fest draws surfers and beach enthusiasts from around the world for a celebration of wave-riding culture.

The Banana River Lagoon, a delicate estuary, provides a tranquil setting for kayaking, paddleboarding, and wildlife spotting. As the closest beach to Orlando, Cocoa Beach also offers a convenient escape for travelers seeking a coastal retreat.

Cocoa Beach is a popular tourist destination that encapsulates the essence of Florida’s diverse and captivating lifestyle.

Pensacola, a coastal gem on the Florida panhandle, offers a captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and vibrant Gulf Coast culture.

With its glorious white sand beaches and emerald waters, Pensacola Beach is a tropical paradise that is one of the best places to visit in Florida.

The Pensacola Beach Pier provides a front-row seat to breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, while water sports enthusiasts can indulge in activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, and deep-sea fishing.

The historic Pensacola Lighthouse stands as a sentinel, offering panoramic views of the Gulf and the bay, and inviting adventurers to climb its spiraling staircase for a unique vantage point.

Pensacola’s rich history is evident in its architecture and landmarks. The city is home to the National Naval Aviation Museum, a sprawling complex that pays homage to the legacy of naval aviation through an impressive collection of aircraft and interactive exhibits.

The Historic Pensacola Village, a meticulously restored neighborhood, transports visitors back in time with its preserved colonial homes, museums, and gardens.

The city’s downtown district boasts a lively arts and entertainment scene, with galleries, theaters, and live music venues that showcase the local talent.

Pensacola’s vibrant festivals, such as the Fiesta of Five Flags and the Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival, celebrate the area’s heritage and creativity, inviting both residents and visitors to revel in the Gulf Coast’s unique spirit.

Pensacola

One of the best places to visit in Florida for scuba diving is Key Largo .

Key Largo is the largest and most enchanting island of the Florida Keys archipelago, drawing in visitors with its underwater wonders and laid-back island charm.

As the self-proclaimed “Dive Capital of the World,” Key Largo boasts a world-renowned coral reef system that offers scuba divers and snorkelers an unparalleled opportunity to explore vibrant marine life and intricate coral formations.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first underwater park in the United States, allows adventurers to delve into an aquatic realm teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, and the iconic Christ of the Abyss statue that stands as a unique underwater landmark.

Key Largo’s serene bays and mangrove forests invite kayakers and eco-tourists to meander through a labyrinth of waterways, offering glimpses of colorful birds and elusive marine creatures.

The Overseas Highway winds its way through the island, connecting visitors to charming waterfront restaurants, tiki bars, and quirky boutiques that exude a distinctly tropical vibe.

The African Queen, made famous by the classic movie, now offers scenic boat tours, allowing passengers to cruise the picturesque canals and channels.

As the gateway to the Florida Keys, Key Largo welcomes travelers to unwind, snorkel, fish, and savor the tranquility of South Florida.

Read next: The Ultimate Miami To Key West Road Trip

Sanibel Island is a haven of unspoiled natural beauty and coastal serenity in southwest Florida.

The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, a sprawling sanctuary encompassing mangrove forests, tidal flats, and diverse wetland habitats, invites nature enthusiasts to observe a plethora of bird species, including the elusive roseate spoonbill and the charismatic osprey.

The island’s unique east-west orientation ensures that the sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico paint the sky with a breathtaking palette of colors, providing a nightly spectacle that captivates both residents and visitors.

Sanibel Island’s commitment to preserving its natural splendor is evident throughout the island. Lush vegetation and charming bike paths contribute to a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere that encourages exploration by bicycle or on foot.

The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village offers a glimpse into the island’s past, showcasing preserved historical buildings and artifacts that tell the story of the island’s early pioneers and settlers.

Boutique shops, art galleries, and family-owned restaurants contribute to the island’s quaint charm, providing a range of opportunities to savor local cuisine and discover unique treasures.

Sanibel Island’s delicate balance between preservation and relaxation makes it a captivating vacation destination for those visiting the Sunshine State.

Fort Myers is another interesting place to visit in southwest Florida full of cool things to see and do.

Start with a visit to the winter home of legendary inventor Thomas Edison, the Edison and Ford Winter Estates stand as a testament to innovation and creativity. Visitors can explore Edison’s laboratory, his botanical gardens, and the historic homes, gaining insights into the lives of these iconic figures.

The city’s charming downtown district exudes a vibrant energy, with its quaint streets lined with boutiques, art galleries, and eateries.

The Caloosahatchee River meanders through the heart of Fort Myers, providing opportunities for riverfront strolls, scenic boat tours, and lively events that take advantage of the water’s picturesque backdrop.

Beyond its historical and cultural attractions, Fort Myers boasts an inviting coastal ambiance. Chill out on Fort Myers Beach or explore the nearby islands with their white sandy beaches, wildlife-rich preserves, and opportunities for beachcombing and water sports.

The Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail, a network of marked waterways, offers a paradise for kayakers and canoe enthusiasts, allowing them to explore the serene backwaters and mangrove estuaries.

The city’s strategic location also grants easy access to the expansive Everglades ecosystem, making Fort Myers a gateway to Florida’s diverse natural wonders.

With its captivating blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures, Fort Myers invites visitors to revel in the best of Florida’s west coast.

Fort Myers

St. Petersburg , situated on Florida’s picturesque west coast, is a vibrant city that marries stunning natural beauty with a thriving arts and cultural scene.

Known as the “Sunshine City,” St. Petersburg boasts an average of 361 days of sunshine each year, inviting residents and visitors to bask in its warm embrace.

The city’s crown jewel is undoubtedly the stunning St. Pete Beach, with its powdery white sands and turquoise waters stretching along the Gulf of Mexico. After spending ample time on St. Pete Beach, check out the art galleries, museums, and theaters of downtown.

The Salvador Dalí Museum showcases the largest collection of the artist’s works outside of Spain, while the Chihuly Collection showcases the mesmerizing glass sculptures of Dale Chihuly. The Mahaffey Theater and the American Stage Theatre Company contribute to a dynamic performing arts scene, enriching the cultural tapestry of the city.

St. Petersburg’s commitment to urban green spaces is evident in its numerous parks and gardens.

The Sunken Gardens, a century-old botanical paradise, invites visitors to explore its lush landscapes and vibrant flora, while Boyd Hill Nature Preserve offers hiking trails that wind through diverse ecosystems, providing opportunities to observe native wildlife in their natural habitats.

The city’s waterfront parks, including Vinoy Park and North Straub Park, offer scenic spots for leisurely walks, picnics, waterfront events, and even sunset cruises .

St. Pete is conveniently located within 30 minutes of both Tampa and Clearwater, so you can easily visit all three of these top Florida destinations in one trip.

Another one of the best places to visit in Florida is Panama City, a coastal haven that seamlessly blends beachside relaxation with a lively atmosphere.

Renowned for its sugar-white sand and warm waters, Panama City Beach stretches along 27 miles of pristine coastline, inviting visitors to bask in the sun, partake in water sports, or simply enjoy the rhythmic lull of the waves.

The city’s iconic Russell-Fields Pier is a popular spot for fishing and sightseeing, offering panoramic views of Panama City Beach and a front-row seat to spectacular sunsets.

The vibrant energy of Panama City Beach is evident along Front Beach Road, where visitors can explore an array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, from quirky beachfront cafes to bustling arcades.

Beyond the beaches, Panama City offers a range of attractions that cater to various interests. St. Andrews State Park, a pristine natural oasis, features diverse ecosystems including coastal dunes, salt marshes, and pine flatwoods, offering opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife observation.

The city’s historic downtown area exudes charm with its tree-lined streets and unique boutiques, while the Panama City Center for the Arts showcases local creativity through exhibitions and workshops.

For those intrigued by maritime history, the Man in the Sea Museum highlights the evolution of underwater exploration, displaying vintage diving equipment and submersibles. Gulf World Marine Park is a great stop for any family vacation as well.

Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Boca Raton exudes a unique blend of upscale sophistication and coastal charm.

This affluent city offers pristine beaches that stretch along the Atlantic Ocean, inviting residents and visitors alike to relax on golden sands and partake in a variety of water activities.

Mizner Park, a cultural hotspot, showcases high-end boutiques, art galleries, and a diverse culinary scene that caters to refined tastes.

Additionally, Boca Raton’s commitment to education is evident through institutions like Florida Atlantic University, which contributes to the city’s vibrant intellectual atmosphere.

Just a stone’s throw away lies Delray Beach, a quaint and artsy coastal town that complements Boca Raton’s allure. Delray Beach’s vibrant Atlantic Avenue pulses with energy, lined with eclectic shops, galleries, and al fresco dining options.

The town’s charming Pineapple Grove Arts District showcases local creativity through its galleries and studios, while the Cornell Art Museum presents a dynamic array of contemporary and historic artworks.

Read next: The 14 Best Day Trips From Miami

West Palm Beach on the state’s southeastern coast is a dynamic city that marks another one of the best places to visit in Florida.

Its picturesque waterfront is punctuated by the vibrant Clematis Street, a bustling thoroughfare lined with trendy restaurants, lively bars, and eclectic shops.

The Norton Museum of Art, a prominent cultural institution, showcases an impressive collection of artworks spanning various eras and styles.

West Palm Beach’s close proximity to the Palm Beaches offers a luxurious escape, with pristine beaches, upscale shopping on Worth Avenue, and world-class golf courses catering to a refined lifestyle.

Be sure to visit the Mounts Botanical Garden, a lush oasis of diverse plant species, or the Grassy Waters Everglades Preserve, a unique wetland ecosystem.

Dreher Park Zoo showcases an array of exotic animals and engaging exhibits, making it a family-friendly destination.

The city’s connectivity to both cultural offerings and natural wonders, along with its vibrant arts scene and upscale amenities, establishes West Palm Beach as a captivating destination that effortlessly combines cosmopolitan flair with a touch of tropical paradise.

West Palm Beach

Another one of the best places to visit in Florida is Naples . This relaxing city has that old Florida charm and a coastline that is packed with natural wonders.

Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South, two charming shopping and dining districts, exude an air of elegance with their upscale boutiques, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants that showcase culinary excellence.

Naples’ affinity for the arts is highlighted by venues like the Baker Museum, where a diverse collection of visual art takes center stage, and the Naples Philharmonic, which offers a variety of classical and contemporary performances.

While Naples boasts a refined ambiance, its natural beauty is equally captivating. The nearby Marco Island is a haven for kayaking or paddleboarding , and you may even spot manatees or dolphins here!

The Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is also a tranquil spot where visitors can meander along a boardwalk that winds through ancient cypress forests and wetlands.

Naples’ fusion of luxurious living, cultural enrichment, and diverse landscapes makes it a top destination in Florida.

Last but not least on our list of the best places to visit in Florida is Destin, a gem of the panhandle in the north. Destin has stunning beaches, world-class golf courses, and a coastal ambiance that’s second to none.

Henderson Beach State Park stands as a natural sanctuary where silky white sands and calm waters create an idyllic backdrop for relaxation and outdoor activities.

The park’s undisturbed shoreline provides a haven for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing, while its nature trails wind through scenic dunes and coastal habitats, offering a glimpse into the region’s unique ecosystems.

The nearby Emerald Bay Golf Club, with its lush fairways and breathtaking coastal views, beckons golf enthusiasts to indulge in a game amidst the stunning natural beauty that characterizes Destin.

Embracing the essence of coastal living, Emerald Coast Parkway winds through Destin, serving as a scenic artery that connects the city’s attractions and offerings. The roadway is lined with charming boutiques, seafood restaurants serving the day’s fresh catch, and oceanfront resorts that provide the perfect blend of comfort and luxury.

Whether strolling along the palm-fringed streets, dining on delectable local cuisine, or simply reveling in the Gulf’s tranquil allure, visitors can savor the relaxed ambiance that characterizes life along the Emerald Coast.

Find more amazing things to do in Destin here !

From iconic amusement parks like Universal Studios in Orlando to Busch Gardens in Tampa , to national parks, state parks, golf courses, museums, beaches, and more, Florida is packed with incredible places to visit.

Embark on a road trip around Florida to combine them all into one visit, or just take your time getting to all these places over the years.

However you choose to explore Florida , you will never run out of breathtaking destinations!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

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About the Author - Gabby Boucher

After four years of working in hospitality, volunteering abroad and travelling for fun, Gabby has developed a knack for budget travel and admiration for different cultures. Her travels have taken her through the cloud forests of Ecuador, into the villages of eastern Europe, across the islands of Thailand, and to the beaches of New South Wales, Australia, where she is currently living with a working holiday visa. She plans to continue her adventures around the world for as long as possible. Follow her on her blog , and on Instagram.

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18 Best Places to Visit in Florida

Written by Michael Law and Lura Seavey Updated Sep 26, 2022

At least a dozen images spring to mind at the mention of Florida, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States . For many, it is Orlando's world-famous theme parks at Disney World and Universal, while others may think of the nearly endless number of championship golf courses that are scattered throughout the Sunshine State.

Waterbugs and sun-worshippers have hundreds of beaches to choose from, and retail connoisseurs will find luxury stores and quirky boutiques in abundance in each city. If your trip is based around a beach vacation or specific activity, you may want to consider the climate and best time of year to visit Florida .

Beyond the entertainment and recreation, Florida has a rich historic and cultural past featuring peaceful natives, Spanish conquistadors, swashbuckling pirates, and generations of Caribbean influences that make it an incredibly interesting and diverse place to visit.

Florida is also home to some of the most unique and special natural places, including Everglades National Park and the scores of barrier islands with precious ocean ecosystems.

Plan your adventures in the Sunshine State with our list of the best places to visit in Florida.

3. Key West

6. st. petersburg & st. pete beach, 7. marco island, 8. fort myers and fort myers beach, 9. sanibel island, 10. clearwater, 11. anna maria island, 13. panama city beach, 14. st. augustine, 15. pensacola, 16. west palm beach, 17. daytona, 18. tallahassee.

Miami

Located in southern Florida, Miami is one of the state's hippest and most popular cities . Miami and nearby Miami Beach showcase the old and new side of Florida. The thriving modern city center stands in contrast to the much more laid-back atmosphere of Miami Beach.

South Beach is the most exciting of Miami's beaches , known for its Art Deco District and ultra-trendy pedestrian mall that stretches out parallel to the beach, full of water-facing outdoor restaurants, entertainment, and plenty of things to do. It's also a popular honeymoon destination in Florida .

Downtown Miami's Flagler Street has a good number of historic attractions, while the Brickell neighborhood and the Design District are home to a plethora of high-end stores and posh eateries. Caribbean influences are found in Miami's lively ethnic neighborhoods of Little Haiti and Little Havana , and the Overtown neighborhood is known for its rich African-American history and hearty soul food.

The Vizcaya museum and historic homes made of coral rock are found in Coconut Grove, an area where peacocks strut unfenced among numerous street entertainers and sidewalk cafes.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Miami

Orlando

At the heart of Florida's tourist industry is the city of Orlando, home to internationally known theme parks like Walt Disney World , Universal Studios , and SeaWorld . These have expanded over the years to include large themed water parks, like Discovery Cove, Typhoon Lagoon, and Volcano Bay.

Families descend on the amusement parks in large numbers during school holidays, but the city is a popular destination year-round. This constant influx of tourists has brought a full range of recreational activities and services to the Orlando area, from championship golf courses and chic spas to restaurants and huge shopping centers.

Orlando isn't all about family time, it's also about getting dressed up and heading out for a fine meal. The city also has four one-star MICHELIN-rated restaurants that are sure to please the most discerning of palates.

Other nearby attractions can be a refreshing change of pace and are easily visited on day trips from Orlando . Some of these include the Kennedy Space Center on Cape Canaveral and seeing the manatees on the Crystal River.

  • Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Orlando

Aerial view of Key West

Historic Key West, at the far southern tip of the continental USA , has a distinctly island feel, with old architecture and a slow pace. This picturesque and laid-back city is famed for having been home to several well-known authors, including Robert Frost, Tennessee Williams, and Ernest Hemingway.

Its location has led to a rich cultural mix that includes influences from many Caribbean islands, which have brought a relaxed attitude, interesting architecture, and culinary variety to the region. Key West is also a popular cruise ship port, full of entertainment options and things to do.

Duval Street is the main tourist area, home to boutiques, souvenir shops, restaurants, and even some historic homes. Some of the city's top attractions include a shipwreck museum that explains the area's long history of salvaging, and the Key West Aquarium . Those interested in ocean ecology will want to visit Dry Tortugas National Park , which consists of seven reef islands that form an archipelago.

Although the Florida Keys aren't known for their beaches, Key West has a number of beaches . These can be a nice break from sightseeing.

Key West's casual atmosphere and the fact that it's a small city with many things to do makes it a great destination for solo travelers . Getting around is easy, and people are friendly. It's one of the best places in the US for people traveling alone .

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Key West, FL

Beach in Naples

The southernmost city along Florida's Gulf Coast is Naples, an upscale area with a quaint city center and lovely stretch of beach. A mix of elegant houses, a few luxury resorts, and condo towers line the ocean, but the downtown has maintained a small-town feel.

Naples' Third St. South and 5th Avenue South are home to its trendiest restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques.

The beaches in and around Naples are some of the best in the entire state. The warm, shallow waters here are generally calm with small waves, making them ideal for swimming and playing. The white sand is soft and perfect for laying out on your towel and soaking up some of that famous Florida sunshine while you gaze out over the Gulf of Mexico.

A visit to Naples Pier , the city's most beloved historic landmark, is a must for tourists and the perfect place for spotting dolphins without getting on a boat. Despite its reputation as a high-end golf resort town, Naples has several historic attractions, as well as unique nature parks.

The historic Smallwood Store trading post is now a museum that remembers the days of fur trading, and the Museum of the Everglades explores 2,000 years of the region's history back to the Calusa Indians. Both properties are on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Gulf Coast Everglades Visitor Center is the park's only admission-free center, and visitors can take a boat tour or rent a canoe or kayak to explore the mangrove estuaries and see the region's amazing wildlife.

Other nearby parks are the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary , known for its ancient cypress forest, and Fakahatchee Strand State Park , home to the ghost orchid and other rare and endangered plants and animals.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Naples

Henry B. Plant Museum in Tampa

The city of Tampa sits on an inlet on Florida's west coast, just across the bay from St. Petersburg. Tampa is especially popular with families, who come to enjoy its many wildlife-filled attractions. Busch Gardens is the best-known, a giant amusement park combined with a zoo that has endless things to see and do.

Animal-lovers can also visit the Tampa Zoo at Lowry Park ; the Florida Aquarium ; and the TECO Manatee Viewing Center, located in Apollo Beach south of Tampa.

Families with younger kids will love the Glazer Children's Museum , which focuses on learning through creative play, and the whole family will enjoy the Museum of Science and Industry , where you can explore the world of technology with hands-on exhibits.

Tampa's Ybor City is one of its most historic areas and the center of the city's Latin community, where a meal at the famous Columbia Restaurant is a must. The Columbia is the oldest restaurant in the state of Florida; it opened its doors way back in 1905.

The lively and funky Sparkman Wharf is well worth checking out in the afternoon and evening. Here, you'll find unique and interesting restaurants housed in shipping containers, along with more traditional establishments. From here, you can walk along the Tampa Riverwalk enjoying the waterfront until you eventually end up at the fun and vibrant Armature Works area.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tampa

St. Pete Beach

Across the bay from Tampa is neighboring St. Petersburg. Visitors, particularly travelers from northern states, come here to escape cold winters and enjoy the oceanfront beaches and mild climate.

Some unique areas to explore include the St. Petersburg Pier , the dockside shops and restaurants of Johns Pass, the quaint atmosphere of historic Pass-a-Grille, and the soft sand of Indian Rocks Beach .

St. Petersburg has many cultural tourist attractions, including several theaters and prominent art museums, like the Dali Museum and the Morean Art Center.

One of the most popular things to do when visiting St. Petersburg is taking boat tours that range from dolphin-spotting and eco-tours to recreational cruises. Nature lovers will appreciate the abundance of peaceful spots, like Caladesi Island State Park, which has remained undeveloped thanks to its offshore location and is full of beaches and nature trails.

St. Pete Beach is a fun and funky beach area with miles and miles of soft sand, just perfect for lazing about in the sun, splashing in the warm Gulf of Mexico waters, or settling in under your umbrella with the latest paperback thriller.

Located just offshore from St. Petersburg, this area is a mix of condos, hotels, and private homes. It's a popular spot that draws in beach lovers from all across the United States. All these people in a positive state of mind give the town a lively feel.

The beach is ideal for those who love beach walking; there's more beach here than you'll have legs to walk.

Marco Island

If you are looking for some of Florida's most consistently warm weather, even in the darkest days of February, head straight to Marco Island. Located near the southern tip of Florida on the Gulf of Mexico, this resort island is almost always warm, while places like Fort Myers or Orlando are shivering.

Fine weather is not the only draw. The incredible beach is another. Stretching for roughly four miles, this long, exceptionally wide beach is one of the best in southern Florida. Accommodation options here are extensive, ranging from first-class resorts through to small hotels catering to boaters.

Fort Myers Beach fishing pier

Downtown Fort Myers, also known as the River District, is full of things to do, from plentiful shopping options to a wide variety of dining choices, as well as sightseeing in this historic area.

Families will enjoy the IMAG History & Science Center , which includes dozens of hands-on exhibits; exciting wildlife interactions, including the chance to touch an alligator; and even the opportunity to see the original fort at Fort Myers in a 3D virtual reality experience.

Fort Myers Beach is on the shores of Estero island, separated from the mainland by a narrow inland waterway and connected by bridges. The expansive beach is known for being an ideal place to see dolphins playing in the water and is full of top-notch resorts that are popular with families, couples, and celebrities.

Fort Myers also attracts many New England baseball fans, who come to watch Red Sox spring training games and hope for chance sightings of their favorite sports heroes around town.

  • Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Fort Myers

Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island sits off the west coast of Florida as an important barrier island, connected to Fort Myers by a causeway. Sanibel is best known for its high-end resorts, which are popular with families, celebrities, and couples. Beyond each resort's generous amenities, tourists will find no lack of things to do, from ocean adventures to leisurely shopping at Sanibel's numerous boutiques and galleries.

One of the most appealing aspects of Sanibel and Captiva is the dedication to conservation, a mission that has resulted in the protected status of half of the island's land and the establishment of organizations like the Sanibel Sea School and the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation.

Many resorts also have their own programs led by naturalists to educate tourists about the delicate ecosystem and amazing wildlife. Some of the island's most treasured wildlife includes the loggerhead sea turtle, which nests on the pristine beaches; manatee and dolphins, which play in the water nearby; and hundreds of bird species, including the bald eagle.

Clearwater Beach

One of Florida's longtime favorite beach destinations , Clearwater has been attracting beachgoers for generations. Located offshore from the main city is a three-mile stretch of soft white sand, lapped by the clear, warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

A wide variety of accommodation is on offer at the beach, from fantastic resorts right through to smaller, cozy hotels and inns. This makes Clearwater's beach area a lively spot, with an abundance of great restaurants and excellent people watching. One of the best places to practice this pastime is by taking a stroll out on Clearwater's famous fishing pier while the sun is setting.

Anna Maria Island

Just offshore from Bradenton, Anna Maria Island is a wonderful slice of "Old Florida." Strict building regulations have ensured that many of the original homes and hotels remain while new towers and huge developments have been blocked. However, that said, Anna Maria Island does have some vacation resorts, many that will take good care of you without beating up on your pocketbook.

The far-sighted vision of the town planners has ensured that Anna Maria Island has a relaxed vibe not found in many other parts of Florida. This coupled with seven miles of incredible beaches makes Anna Maria Island a must visit for beach enthusiasts.

Caspersen Beach, Venice

Venice, often overlooked as a destination in Florida, is a place where you'll find lots of things to do without the crowds of other Gulf side destinations. This small city has a delightful downtown that is very walkable, with a wide variety of shops selling everything from dresses right through to bathing suits. Also located here are several small and funky restaurants and bakeries, all ideal places to grab a spot on a patio and watch the world go by.

A short drive from downtown are Venice's famous beaches. Condos and homes line the waterfront near town, but a short distance south is the Venice Fishing Pier and the iconic Sharky's on the Pier restaurant. Those interested in searching for shark's teeth should head a bit farther south to Caspersen Beach and keep their eyes peeled on the sand as they stroll the shoreline.

Panama City Beach

One of the most popular places to visit in Florida's Panhandle region is Panama City Beach. Famed for its blindingly white sand and emerald waters, Panama City Beach is the easiest place to get to if you are traveling from the north. The beaches here are fantastic and busy during the summer season.

The city boasts quite affordable waterfront accommodation compared to destinations farther south. Off the beach, the fun at Panama City Beach doesn't stop. Other things to do in Panama City Beach include visiting the giant Skywheel, Pier Park, and Gulf World Marine Park. More kitschy attractions include Ripley's Believe it or Not and Wonderworks.

For something a bit more natural, head to Panama City Beach Conservation Park or St. Andrews State Park and Shell Island.

St. Augustine

St. Augustine is often referred to as the oldest city in the USA . Pedro Menéndez de Avilés landed here on September 8, 1565 and claimed the territory in the name of King Philip II of Spain. Colonial architecture and old homes line the streets of the historic center, which has become a popular tourist attraction.

The Colonial Quarter is a living history museum that introduces visitors to life in St. Augustine from the 1500s through the 1700s, including the construction of the replica of a 16th-century boat and a working blacksmith shop.

St. Augustine is proud to be home to several of Florida's most significant historic attractions, including the Ximenez-Fatio House Museum , Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park , and the Castillo de San Marcos . Mariners can learn more and admire exhibits at the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum.

  • Top Attractions & Places to Visit in St. Augustine, FL
  • Fishing in St. Augustine: Things to Know

Pensacola

The port of Pensacola, situated on the best and largest natural harbor in Florida, is the economic center of the western edge of the Panhandle. Its history goes back more than 460 years, and the carefully restored Historic Village contains buildings of the Spanish, French, and British colonial periods.

Features of interest in the surrounding area are the U.S. Naval Aviation Museum ; Fort Pickens (1834) at the west end of Santa Rosa Island; Pensacola Beach , with its expanses of sugar-white sand; and Perdido Key, with its mix of busy beaches and wide-open natural areas. Visitors will find that Pensacola has less of the Floridian resort-town atmosphere and more of the down-home influences of the deep south.

Here, you will find plenty of grits, a slight Southern drawl, and a slower pace. Despite its smaller size, Pensacola is home to plenty of things to do , including family activities, museums, and several performing arts companies. Couple this with a lively and charming downtown complete with shaded sidewalks, inviting patios, and interesting shopping not found in other northwest Florida cities, and it's no surprise Pensacola is popular with visitors from across the United States and around the world.

Read More: Best Beaches in Pensacola

West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach on Lake Worth, inland from Palm Beach, has a number of interesting museums and many trendy and fine dining restaurants. As the city's name suggests, it is often defined by its amazing miles of soft, sandy beaches, and many tourists come primarily to soak up the sun and enjoy the water.

West Palm Beach is also home to plenty of other attractions, many of them family-friendly animal encounters. The Cox Science Center and Aquarium is popular for its numerous exhibits and underwater residents, and the Manatee Lagoon gives visitors the chance to see these gentle giants up-close and free of charge.

Sea creatures don't get all the attention, though - the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society is home to 700 animals from habitats around the world, and Lion Country Safari gives visitors an opportunity to ride through the park to see some amazing African animals, as well as interact at the petting zoo and giraffe feeding station, and cool off in the water playground.

Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in West Palm Beach

Daytona

Daytona's main claim to fame is the Daytona 500 Nascar Race held here each February, but the beaches also draw visitors year-round. Daytona Beach, once known as a spring break hot spot, has become more of a family-oriented destination that also attracts seniors.

Daytona's beaches stretch along 23 miles of Atlantic Ocean coastline and feature an activity-filled boardwalk that is home to amusement rides, games, restaurants, special events, and a long pier.

Cultural attractions include the Cici and Hyatt Brown Museum of Art , which houses the largest collection of Florida art in the world, and the Stetson mansion . Visitors can also admire Florida's tallest lighthouse, the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse , which reaches 175 feet tall.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Attractions in Daytona Beach, FL

Historic Capitol Museum, Tallahassee

Florida's capital city, Tallahassee may not be on most people's radar as a place to visit when in the northern part of the state. However, it's definitely worth a stop for its fine collection of museums, interesting attractions, and history.

Most of the things to do in Tallahassee are located downtown near the State Capitol building, so park the car and walk around this pleasant area. Top sights include the Historic Capitol Museum, the new Capitol Building (especially the incredible views from the 22nd floor), and the Museum of Florida History.

Just back from downtown is the sprawling campus of Florida State University, and in front of downtown is the delightful Cascades Park. A bit of a drive from downtown but not far from Interstate 10 is the famous Tallahassee Automobile Museum with over 160 rare and classic cars on display (along with many other eclectic items).

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beer can island trees one of the best places to visit in florida for vacation

17 Best Places to Visit in Florida (+ Unique Vacation Spots)

November 29, 2021 //  by  Florida Trippers

Are you traveling to the sunshine state soon and looking for some of the best places to visit in Florida? We’ve got you covered! In this article we will look at some of the most wonderful places to go in Florida.

From beaches to springs to charming towns and everything else in between, we promise we are going to list the best destinations in Florida. Of course, we will mention a few of the top Florida tourist attractions, but as a whole, sit back and plan your vacation and trust us when say that you won’t be disappointed.

So sit back, begin planning, and then pack your suitcase and sunscreen! Sunshine state here you come to see the best places to visit in Florida!

woman standing at ginnie springs on blue water at one of the best places to visit in florida

Visit Crab Island

Florida is famous for many things, and unsurprisingly, beaches are one of them! Crab Island is famous for its Crystal clear waters. Tourists love to come here to live that island life!

This is probably one of the most infamous attractions in Destin, Florida. It is a popular summer destination that has been featured in many magazines with lots of travel publications. This makes it one of the best vacation spots in Florida, which is why we added it to this list of best places to visit in Florida!

This island was once a manmade island, but due to erosion, the island is now an underwater sandbar. Due to its shallow nature, even at high tide the water is only four feet deep! Many boats anchor here and many tourists love to relax in the blue-green water while resting safely on the enormous sandbar. For more information, check out our article that features Tips for Visiting Crab Island.

Where to Stay: Hyatt Place Sandestin at Grand Blvd

The shallow sandbar is a popular boat drop area and is one of the best places to visit in Florida.

Take a Dip in Ginnie Springs

Ginnie Springs is the epitome of Florida beauty that features some of the prettiest water in the state, but that doesn’t mean you can sleep on the other springs in Florida! Check out our Best Springs in Florida article for more suggestions on Florida vacation spots.

We want to focus on Ginnie Springs though! This privately-owned spring is connected to the Santa Fe River. The water temperature stays at a constant 72F all year round, and when swimming, you can also rent a tube, paddleboard, or kayak!

And if you don’t want to just swim, you can also dive or even camp! Just be warned: admission prices and crowds can change hour to hour or day to day because this spring is one of the top Florida tourist attractions. But this doesn’t mean we don’t want it on our list of best places to visit in Florida, because it truly is the best! For more information and to feel prepared to visit one of the best destinations in Florida, check our Tips for Ginnie Springs too!

Where to Stay: Grady House Bed and Breakfast

Ginnie Springs is one of the best springs near tampa

Listen to the Singing Tower at the Bok Tower Gardens

If you are a fan of hidden gems, make sure to add the Bok Tower Gardens to your best places to visit in Florida itinerary! These gardens are located in Central Florida and is contemplative garden and bird sanctuary.

Its famous Singing Tower sits next to the reflection pool, and the grounds itself stretch over 150 acres. You can expect to see a lot of wildlife here, which is why this is one of the cool places to visit in Florida.

These gardens have seen over 23 million visitors since 1929. It is one of the top best Florida destinations as people love to the opportunities at these grounds that offer artistic, personal, and spiritual enrichment. It is one of the best places to visit in Florida because it has something for all ages with educational aspects, events, and more. And if you are near by the Bok Gardens, check out our article on the best things to do in Central Florida !

Where to Stay: Lake Roy Beach Inn- Winter Haven

The unique gardens and singing tower of Bok Gardens make it one of the best places to visit in Florida.

Swing by the Vizcaya Museum

There are plenty of places to visit in Miami, but we want to make sure to add the Vizcaya Museum to your list of best places to visit in Florida because we promise it is well worth the visit! It is one of the cool places to visit in Florida!

This villa and estate was previously owned by James Deering, but today, it is a gorgeous attraction and one of the prettiest museums around. From its Mediterranean-style architecture to the 32-decorated rooms and ten acres of gardens, you can spend hours upon hours here!

The gardens are reminiscent from 17th and 18th century Italy and France, and the first floor of the museum offers insight to reception rooms, the music room, the dining room, and the layered collection of artifacts that are housed here. This truly is one of the coolest places to visit in Miami, and if you are looking for more suggestions, check out our article that goes through 20 Fun Things to do in Miami . Some of these are some of the best places to visit in Florida for couples!

Where to Stay: Aloft Miami Brickell

This bedroom of the Vizcaya Museum is one of the best places in Florida because the decorated room seems like you are stepping back in time.

Go to Beer Can Island

Also known as Greer Island, Beer Can Island is a secluded beach getaway you don’t want to miss! It is one of the best places to visit in Florida for couples, and families! But there is something important to note: this island is a beautiful but fragile ecosystem so make sure to not litter and be respectful!

This Island is located in the northern section of Longboat Key. It is one of the most perfect Florida tourist attractions because this island is the perfect places to relax, take epic photos, have a picnic, enjoy the sunset and more!

Do note, however, you cannot camp or have fires here! And make sure to be careful of bugs: the mangroves and standing water can cause some bugs to be around, especially during dusk, but that does not take away from the shallow sandbar, trees that support hammocks, and more! This is one of the best places to visit in Florida hands down, and if you need more help getting here, check our our Tips for Visiting Beer Can Island!

Where to Stay: Orient Expressed

The mangroves on Beer Can Island make this best places to visit in Florida a perfect photo op!

Camp Out at Kelly Park/Rocks Springs

Florida is full of oasis’, that’s no surprise, but look no further than Kelly Park, which features the wonderful Rock Springs! The water here is so clear, and the park itself is huge enough to encourage campers to hike and stay on property overnight.

This park has the perfect natural lazy river, and it is shaded and intimate, which makes it stand out amongst typical springs in Florida. This means that this is one of the best places to visit in Florida! We promise you will love the 26,000 gallons that bubble up from underneath the surface while floating down the river!

So whether you want to kayak, relax, camp, float, or even do a picnic here, the options for a day at Kelly Park are outstanding. In fact, this is also a fantastic day trip from Orlando , so if you are in the area, consider adding Kelly Park to your itinerary to visit one of the best places to go in Florida. For more information check out our article that offers Tips for Kelly Park!

Where to Stay: Hyatt Place Lake Mary/Orlando

woman standing at rock springs in Florida in a red bathing suit

Spend time in Historic Saint Augustine

Of course we want you to visit one of the nation’s oldest cities: that is why we are adding Saint Augustine to the best places to visit in Florida itinerary! This city is famous for its beaches, museums, parks, and even ghost tours!

This city has been voted one of the most romantic cities in Florida, meaning it is one of the best places to visit in Florida for couples, but it is also a fantastic spring break destination. But no matter who you are traveling with or when you are traveling, you must stop here!

So whether you decide to visit all of the wineries around the city, take a trolley tour, or get spooked by staying at a haunted hotel, we promise this city will not disappoint you. Take your time exploring here, and check out our article of the 14 Best Things to do In Saint Augustine — you don’t want to miss anything!

Where to Stay: The Flagler Inn

Flagler College looks like a castle and is only one of the many things you can explore in Saint Augustine, which is one of the best places to visit in Florida!

Enjoy the Ringling Museum

If you are looking for one of the cool places to visit in Florida, look no further than the Ringing Brothers Museum Campus. This campus originally started as a collection for John Ringling’s personal art but has now developed into so much more.

This is one of the best places to visit in Florida because it is so unique: and it is so close to Sarasota that visiting here makes for one of the best Florida vacations ever! The stunning Renaissance-inspired pink courtyard, bronze statures, and garden area will have you loving this spot. If you plan to visit, don’t forget to check out our Tips For Visiting The Ringling Museum!

When inside, art-lovers can gaze at the expansive collection that span across the Roman, Greek, Medieval and Renaissance time periods. But outside visitors can enjoy the flowers and fountains and more. This is truly worth a trip. We promise! And if you are in the area, make sure to check out the other things to do in Sarasota or even look at our article on Hidden Gems that may be near by!

Where to Stay: Kompose Boutique Hotel Sarasota

The Ringling Museum features art exhibits and designs that are colorful and out of this century. Exploring here makes it one of the best places to visit in Florida!

Take in the Dry Tortugas

The Dry Tortugas are a group of islands located in the Gulf of Mexico, home to a national park that covers 100 square miles on these seven small islands. It is truly tropical paradise, which is why we are mentioning it as one of the best places to visit in Florida!

The waters surrounding these islands house the tales of pirates and hidden treasures– which may be true. In 1985 over $450 million was found salvaged from this area in the form of silver and gold.

But better yet, the remoteness of this park keeps it intimate. The lack of crowds really allows you to visit the only tropical reef in the US. This is home to the third-largest tropical reef in the world, so why would you want to miss this? It is one of the best Florida destinations. And for more intro check out our articles on the Dry Tortugas or the Islands of Florida !

Where to Stay: Courtney’s Place Historic Cottage & Inns

Dry Tortugas National Park is one of those best places to visit in Florida because of its unique structure: this picture shows it's Ariel, hexagon shape.

Book an Airboat Tour in The Everglades

The Everglades is a 1.5 million acre wetland that is located in southern Florida. It is too unique to not mention in the best places to visit in Florida! This swamp is comprised of mangroves, sawgrass marshes, and is home to many animals like birds and gators.

People love to take an airboat tour of the Everglades as a way to get a great view of areas that are typically inaccessible. There are so many options when it comes to this: you can book a private tour, a small group tour, a moonlight tour and more.

But no matter what you decide to do, or where you are coming from (Miami, Naples, Orlando, etc.), there are options for you! You won’t want to miss this. The Everglades are truly one of the best places to visit in Florida, and an airboat tour to explore them is a once in a life time opportunity. Looking for help deciding what tour to take? Check out our 11 Best Everglades Airboat Tours too!

Where to Stay: Everglades Adventures Hotel Suites by Ivey House

The everglades are one of the best places to visit in Florida, so this picture shows the green grass and marsh with an airboat on top of it.

Explore Stilt Houses in Naples or Macro Island

The Cape Romano Dome House is an abandoned house consisting of six dome-shaped modules on stilts. It is one of the most unique sites in Florida, so of course we are adding it to our best places to visit in Florida list.

These dome homes are located about 300 feet offshore from Cape Romano Island, just south of Marco Island. Once a home to a millionaire seeking the serene beach life, these domes now provide shelter for birds and aquatic life off the Gulf.

Years of erosion have slowly engulfed this structure and submerged portions of it. The remaining domes are now part of a wildlife preserve and are now only accessible by boat. It is a hidden gem, and super unique! So make sure to see how this home has been full reclaimed by the sea. It truly is one of the best places to visit in Florida, and when you’re done, check out other things to do in Marco Island !

Where to Stay: The Boathouse

The dome houses are one of those best places to visit in Florida. The 6 dome homes sit abandoned in the water.

Spend Some Time in Key West

Pretty much all of us have heard of the infamous Key West! So why wouldn’t we add it to our list of best places to visit in Florida? There are so many unique and exciting things to do in Key West.

This area is known for its nightlight, entertainment and relaxing islands vibes. But don’t be fooled! Key West is also home to a lot of history and other adventures.

So whether you take a historic tour, eat your way down main streets, or even live life more one edge and rent out a boat or go diving, there is something for everyone here! This may be one of those best Florida vacations that may last with you for a lifetime! For suggestions on what to do, look at our 16 Fun Things to do in Key West. And if you’re driving into the area, look at some stop suggestions we have as you drive from Miami to Key West!

Where to Stay: Harborside Motel and Marina

Key West has always been one of the best places to visit in Florida and this picture shows its paradise: palm trees, beaches, kayaks and more.

Spend Some Time in Pensacola, Florida

Pensacola is one of the oldest European Settlements in the United States and is one of those places to see in Florida because of all it has to offer! This wonderful city is known for its beautiful white sand beaches, historical monuments, state parks and more.

There are so many fun things to do in this city, which is why we added it to the best places to visit in Florida: from the Naval Aviation Museum to Perdido Key State Park, there is always something for everyone here!

So whether you are on a couples getaway or a family vacation, or just here for a few hours or maybe even a weekend, there are so many things you can explore. Don’t miss the famous beach, and maybe even consider a day cruise if you have the time. Either way, check our our 14 Fun Things to do In Pensacola for some suggestions when stopping by one of the best places to visit in Florida!

Where to Stay: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Pensacola Beach

Pensacola is one of the best places to visit in Florida because it is famous for its white sands and clear waters, like shown in this photo.

Explore Orlando

Although many people just think of Disney when they think of Orlando, there is so much more than Disney and Universal and theme parks here in this city! Orlando is one of the best places to visit in Florida because it appeals to all ages and offers so much because it is such a popular tourist attraction and one of the most famous Florida Destinations!

People also tend to assume that Orlando has to be expensive, which isn’t true! For some help, check out our article on 15 Free Things to do in Orlando or some of the Best Hikes in Orlando you don’t want to miss.

Whether you decide to go to a nearby beach in Orlando, go outdoor shopping to get some great deals, or just visit some of the touristy spots during the evening, you won’t be disappointed or bored. There are so many things to do in this magical city that don’t even have to do with Disney Magic! So give it a chance!

Where to Stay: Buena vista Suites

The Eye of Orlando is just a giant ferris wheel, and is one of the many things to do in Orlando, AKA one of the best places to visit in Floirda.

Visit a Fair in Florida!

We know Florida is famous for its beaches and theme parks, but the sunshine lets us Floridan’s do so much more outside, which includes countless fairs! Just make sure that when you are at some of the best places to visit in Florida that has to deal with fairs that you check dates and when they are open!

There is nothing quite like the excitement of spending a day at one of Florida’s many fairs. These are great for families of all ages, couples, or just days with friends. And these fairs are guaranteed to bring something everyone can enjoy!

Prepare for a day filled with great food, exhilarating rides, and the chance to see many types of people and animals. The Florida fairs are bound to impress: fro, the Florida State Fair to the Citrus County Fair, when these come to town you don’t want to miss them! And make sure to check out our article on the 15 Best Fairs in Florida!

Where to Stay: Hyatt Place Downtown Tampa

Fairs are one of the beset places to visit in Florida: just make sure to know where they are and when they are coming to town! This photo show street vendors selling tuns

Stroll Down Tampa Riverwalk

If you are in the Tampa Bay area, you are already at one of the best places to visit in Florida! But very specifically, we want to mention the Tampa Riverwalk. This beautiful 2.6 mile pedestrian walkway starts downtown near Channelside and goes up to the Waterworks Park in Tampa Heights.

Along the way you will find public art, history, parks, hotels, and more attractions. When this Riverwalk was completed, the designer wanted the walkway to highlight this beautiful destination– and that is what it does!

A series of busts and statues line the walkway as well. So even if you want to take a free stroll down this walkway or if you decide to stop and visit a museum off the cusp, or return to the Straz Center for a theatre show or even eat some yummy food, you won’t be disappointed. And if you are in the Tampa area, do make sure to peak at our article on 17 Fun Things to do in Tampa!

Where to Stay: Hotel Haya

Tampa is one of the best places to visit in Florida, and this photo highlights the night life and lights on its riverwalk.

Stop by Safety Harbor

We adore cute, small towns, so of course we had to add one of the favorites to our best places to visit in Florida! On the west shore of Tampa, you’ll fin d a community in Pinellas County tucked away.

Less than 5,000 people live here in Safety Harbor and the town is only five square miles. The downtown stretch of Main Street is lined with trees, family restaurants, and local shops. It is a small town feel for sure, but this town also has a Resort and Spa!

Safety Harbor is truly a fantastic small gem in Florida, and therefore, is one of the best places to visit in Florida! Take a stroll down the town, eat in a family restaurant and support local for a few hours. Make sure to also visit Whimzeyland! And if small towns are your thing, check out our list of 21 Small Towns you can visit in Florida!

Where to Stay: Safety Harbor Resort and Spa

woman sitting at whimzeyland in safety harbor one of the best florida vacation spots

And there you have it, 17 of the best places to visit in Florida! So whether you decide go a traditional route and visit the beaches or Orlando, or if you want to change it up and experience small towns and unique experiences, you won’t be disappointed. There is much to do in Florida! Pack your bags, safe travels, and have fun on your trip to the sunshine state!

best airbnbs in naples florida

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13 Best Places to Visit in Florida on Your Next Trip

The sunshine state has plenty to offer in addition to sand and surf..

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Propeller plane by the shoreline of a beach

The Florida Keys are one of many places worth checking out in the Sunshine State.

Photo by Rose Marie Cromwell

Working in Florida’s restaurants for more than 15 years (and at one point owning one myself), I’ve had a front seat view to everything from supper clubs seeded by farm shares to public houses sourcing from local makers. The burgeoning food scene is reflective of a state that’s equally diverse: Mermaids ( modern ones on Scuba ) and manatees swim the waters in Central Florida, the “nation’s oldest city” offers a look into the history of the northeast region, and fishing villages lost in time can be found along the Northwest Panhandle.

From the Sunshine State’s 1,350 miles of coastline to the vibrant art scenes of its cities, here are the 13 best places to visit in Florida.

Bright yellow wall with pastel-colored patterns on top.

Some of Miami’s most interesting areas are in the Art Deco Historic District.

Photo courtesy of GMCVB

  • Location: South Florida
  • Come for: inclusive initiatives and public art

South Beach holds the crown for exciting nightlife, but don’t count out the fine dining scene— Michelin-starred restaurants dot Miami ’s art deco landscape. With Cuba only 90 miles away, Calle Ocho in the heart of “Little Havana” serves up mouthwatering croquetas and salsa music in the city where bars close at 5 a.m. Public installations abound in once blighted neighborhoods, transformed in 2013 into hubs of local art and design like the Wynwood and Design District.

Exploring Miami’s glitzy bars, iconic boardwalk, and world-class beach is easy thanks to its inclusivity efforts. Accessible mats are available at more than 20 locations along Ocean Drive, and beach wheelchairs with big, nubby tires can be checked out at a number of locations along the route year-round.

Where to stay

  • Book now: The Betsy

Located in the heart of South Beach, this 1940s art deco property exudes elegance throughout its 130 rooms and suites, two pools, 25,000 square feet of public space, and a library (in case you forgot your book). The Betsy also plays host to a curated selection of public art during Miami’s Art Basel .

Key lime pie vendors, street carts, and quirky boutiques line Duval Street, the main thoroughfare in Key West.

Key lime pie vendors, street carts, and quirky boutiques line Duval Street, the main thoroughfare in Key West.

Photo by xbrchx/Shutterstock

2. Key West

  • Location: Florida Keys
  • Come for: six-toed cats and laid-back island lifestyle

Known as the place to gather for sunsets, Key West has shipwreck and maritime museums worth checking out (in addition to mouthwatering conch fritters). Mallory Square’s cobblestones fill with street performers doing magic, telling fortunes, and busking as the sun descends over the water. Tucked behind the main street, Hemingway’s six-toed cats rule his legendary house, and local musicians gather at hidden venues like General Horseplay to jam.

Just over the Seven-Mile Bridge from Marathon, Key West’s mangroves hold secret paths for kayakers, and ghostly shipwrecks rest 145 feet below the surface (try diving with Captain’s Corner ). After a day of snorkeling with the fish, order a Rum Runner cocktail and toast another day in paradise.

  • Book now: Southernmost Beach Resort

With a prime location at the end of Duval Street and a stone’s throw from the Southernmost Point, this boutique resort features three pools and the best sunset view around. The rooms feature rattan furniture, wide-planked driftwood floors, and roomy balconies to make a cozy retreat.

Golf course neighborhood in the daytime

With more than 80 championship courses designed by legends like Arnold Palmer (yes, the person associated with the famous drink), there’s plenty of fairway to get in the swing.

Photo by Felix Mizioznikov/Shutterstock

  • Location: Southwest Florida
  • Come for: world-class golf courses and 100+ art galleries and museums

With over 100 galleries and museums featuring everything from Seminole and Calusa history to automobiles, Naples has plenty for art enthusiasts. Don’t miss a show at the performance venue Artis-Naples , affectionately known as the Phil by locals.

Shelling is spectacular along Naples’s pearly white coast, but for some true Florida wildlife, visit the Conservancy of Southwest Florida , a nature center with a wildlife hospital that treats injured and orphaned native animals.

  • Book now: Inn on Fifth

Located steps from Fifth Avenue’s palm-fringed streets and high-end boutiques, the ritzy Inn on Fifth offers lavish Club Level Suites, two restaurants, a full-service spa, and a rooftop pool and bar where you can take in Naples Bay.

Colorful buildings line a street in the daytime.

If Palm Beach’s elegant buildings don’t capture you, hit Worth Avenue—shopping here is akin to an Olympic sport.

Photo by Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

4. Palm Beach

  • Location: Southeastern Florida
  • Come for: beautiful architecture and celebrity spotting

Movie stars, finance tycoons, and even royalty have graced the barrier island located on the southeastern side of the state. Chocked full of Mediterranean revival and Venetian-inspired architecture, Palm Beach captures a Gilded Age feel in historic landmarks like the Flagler Museum .

For innovative programming and community engagement opportunities like opera workshops open to the public, visit the Society of the Four Arts along the Intracoastal Waterway. Its 10-acre campus includes performance hall, art gallery, education center, libraries, and sculpture gardens.

  • Book now: The Colony

This pink-hued charmer has offered chic accommodations for guests like Judy Garland and John Lennon since 1947. Only feet from the sand, the vintage Floridian decor coupled with amenities like beach cruisers, beach butlers, golf, tennis, boating, babysitting services, and pet services make this a getaway the place to be seen.

Wooded bridge leading to a bridge in the daytime.

When snorkeling at St. Pete Beach, be on the lookout for octopuses, bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles, crabs, shrimp, and snapper.

Photo by mariakray/Shutterstock

5. St. Petersburg

  • Location: Pinellas Peninsula on Tampa Bay
  • Come for: thriving arts community and international food scene

The city’s heart has a network of neighborhoods with eye-catching murals and walkable streets. Some of the best opportunities to see art are at the Dalí Museum , home to more than 2,400 pieces by surrealist artist Salvador Dalí, the Museum of Fine Arts ’s Monet collection, and the Morean Arts Center , which houses a Chihuly Collection of 18 glass sculptures.

St. Petersburg city is also a short bridge ride away from St. Pete Beach, a barrier island that is great for a relaxing day on the sand or a day of snorkeling (check out Island Ferry Eco Tours ).

  • Book now: The Don CeSar

The name of this 1928-opened hotel comes from the William Vincent Wallace opera Maritana, and remnants of the musical masterpiece can be found throughout the grand halls and rooms of the Don CeSar. Elegant dining and imbibing options reside on-site and a full-service spa offers relaxation to weary travelers.

Outdoor stairs leading to a sign in the daytime.

Digging into the Crystal River Archeological State Park is one of the city’s outdoor adventures.

Photo by Sunshower Shots/Shutterstock

6. Crystal River

  • Location: Western Central Florida
  • Come for: manatees and mermaids

Sure, Florida beaches are beautiful, but locals know the state’s magic lies in the more than 1,000 natural springs found around the state—and many can be found in Crystal River. The city hosts a tapestry of state parks, and national wildlife refuges that make excellent spots for bird watching.

For more nature, Crystal River is a short drive to Weeki Wachee State Park , an attraction that’s home to the state’s deepest freshwater cave system. The live mermaid shows are the main draw—they perform a version of Hans Christian Andersen’s Little Mermaid submerged in the 400-foot amphitheater.

  • Book now: Plantation on Crystal River

This lodge lies surrounded by the natural springs of King’s Bay and more than 25,000 acres of lakes and rivers, wildlife refuges, and state parks. The nature lover’s sanctuary has a full-service marina, 18-hole golf course, and restaurants offering “cook your catch” options.

People walking along a brick-lined path surrounded by shops in the daytime.

The Florida city of Seaside is a Highway 30A stop that was featured on The Truman Show .

Photo by Kristi Blokhin/Shutterstock

7. Highway 30A

  • Location: Northwestern Coast
  • Come for: rare coastal dune lakes and underwater museums

This brief 24-mile stretch of scenic byway hugging the Gulf Coast hides a haven of singing bartenders and eclectic festivals like Crafted and Digital Graffiti . One stop worth taking on a 30A roadtrip is the Underwater Art Museum in Grayton Beach—the museum offers a one-of-a-kind dive experience where those willing to brave the depths can swim among sculptures that are chosen and sunk each year.

Another noteworthy feature of 30A’s sliver of the Emerald Coast: Here you can see coastal dune lakes (rare ecological wonders found only in a few spots around the world).

  • Book now: Hibiscus Coffee & Guest House

This old Florida rooming house in Grayton Beach feels like a step back in time. The 13 rooms each feature their vintage Floridian personality with framed old maps and model ships transformed into lamps. The stay is wheelchair accessible and includes breakfast. Don’t miss yoga or open-mic storyteller nights in its “Backyard of Love.”

Bird's eye view of a seaside town in the daytime.

Apalachicola’s historic buildings house buzzy breweries and restaurants dedicated to Florida seafood.

Photo by Jacob Boomsma/Shutterstock

8. Apalachicola

  • Come for: oysters and old fishing village vibes

Swathes of untouched coastline and shacks serving addictive smoked fish dip can be found along Franklin County. One of its cities, Apalachicola, is a working fishing village where you can glimpse fishermen and oyster farmers on the docks.

The welcoming port town located at the mouth of the Apalachicola River has been recognized as a “ distinctive destination ” by the National Trust for Historic Preservation because of its character and dedication to historic preservation, among other reasons.

  • Book now: The Gibson Inn

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this 1907 landmark turned modern boutique hotel features elegant wraparound porches and chic guest rooms.

People on a swan-shaped boat in a lake with skyscrapers in the background

Lake Eola, in the heart of downtown, is known for its photogenic swans and tiered fountain.

Photo by Derek Oladokun II

  • Location: Central Florida
  • Come for: theme parks and huge network of lakes

Can you talk about Florida without mentioning Disney ? The House of Mouse has been an Orlando destination since 1971. Days can be spent riding the barrels in Frontier Land at Walt Disney World , but there’s also wizarding with Harry Potter at Universal Studios and communing with orcas at Seaworld —the theme park game is strong in this city.

Beyond the glitzy entertainment at the theme parks, Orlando has more than 100 lakes—check out Lake Apopka, which covers 30,000 acres, for a peaceful respite.

  • Book now: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Inspired by a traditional African kraal, the lodge exudes safari with its panoramic views of four lush savannas populated with over 30 species of African wildlife and African art at every turn. Plus, you never have to get in your car; complimentary buses and shuttles will whisk you around the park.

Horse-drawn carriage on a street near buildings

The blacksmith shops and stately forts of St. Augustine whisper history.

Photo by Glenn Hastings/Stacey Sather

10. St. Augustine

  • Location: Northeast Atlantic Coast
  • Come for: historic sites and ghost tours

Known as the “nation’s oldest city,” with roots back to 1565 when it was settled by Europeans, St. Augustine offers plenty of tours that take you back in time: Hop on an Old Town Trolley Tour to hit more than 100 points of interest, including Ponce de León’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park where you can take a sip of the legendary immortality-imbuing water.

Located along the northeast coast, St. Augustine has a pedestrian-only thoroughfare and wonders like the Castillo de San Marcos , a Spanish stone fortress dating back to the 1600s, designated a national monument. Get lost on St. George Street—antiques and funky boutiques await.

  • Book now: The Collector Luxury Inn and Gardens

Situated downtown, this luxury inn features nine historic buildings and 30 guest rooms that incorporate the history and architecture of the property’s 18th-century construction. The courtyard, bricked paths lined with statues, and amphitheater create a multisensory retreat steps from the bustle of the city’s attractions.

Two people walking with a horse on the beach at sunset.

Amelia Island State Park plays host to 200 acres of beaches, salt marshes, and coastal maritime forests.

Photo by Peter W. Cross and Patrick Farrell.

11. Amelia Island

  • Location: Barrier island on Northern Atlantic coast
  • Come for: uncrowded beaches and horseback riding on the sand

With 13 miles of unspoiled beaches and Spanish-moss-draped oak trees, this barrier island feels more like a lost-in-time Southern retreat than its palm-lined brethren further south. The quartz-filled sand beaches are framed by 40-feet-tall sand dunes— horseback riding along the dunes offers another vantage point of the natural paradise.

Beyond the beaches and coastal recreation, Amelia Island is also home to the oldest lighthouse in Florida (first lit by whale oil in 1838) and Florida’s oldest bar, the Palace Saloon .

  • Book now: The Amelia Schoolhouse Inn

Located right in downtown Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island, the Amelia Schoolhouse Inn served as a school from 1886 until the late 20th century. The boutique hotel has kept historical features like original windows and heart pine floors, but coupled with modern amenities like on-site mini golf and an upscale bar, the Principal’s Office.

Patrons dine al fresco next to Airstream food trucks under palm trees in downtown Pensacola

Pensacola’s downtown is home to fermentation bars, buzzy restaurants, and community gathering spaces.

Photo by Leigh Trail/Shutterstock

12. Pensacola

  • Location: Northwest Florida
  • Come for: historic downtown and exceptional scuba diving

Pensacola’s Historic Downtown packs in a bevy of museums and places dedicated to art. Opened in 1925, you can catch a show at the Saenger Theatre or pop into Electric Serenade for a private karaoke party. If you’re looking for adventure, book a dive trip to the USS Oriskany (a sunken aircraft carrier that’s now the largest artificial reef in the world).

Over the bridge, the federally protected Gulf Islands National Seashore is home to osprey and great blue herons, dolphins, sea turtles, and stingrays. Don’t miss the Futuro House (otherwise known as the “UFO House”), another iconic Florida roadside attraction that’s been around since the 1960s.

  • Book now: Lily Hall

Walking distance to Pensacola’s vibrant downtown, this boutique hotel nods to the city’s history and artists with its record players and custom vinyl collections in every room. In addition, the stay has a wood-fire restaurant and secret speakeasy in the basement where Sunday school classes were once held.

Blue skies are reflected in the still waters of the everglades while tourists take airboat rides to visit alligators in the wild.

Coined the “River of Grass” by conservationist and author Marjory Stoneman Douglas, the 1.5 million acres of wetlands houses species like American crocodiles.

Photo by allouphoto/Shutterstock

13. Everglades National Park

  • Location: Southern tip of Florida mainland
  • Come for: spotting endangered species and outdoor recreation

It’s hard to believe Miami’s glittering boundaries are an hour from the coastal mangroves and murky swamps of Everglades National Park . Trails for biking, hiking, and bird-watching snake through the Everglades, but going by water is the best way to experience this park, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and International Biosphere Reserve. Take a guided airboat with Gator Park or kayak tour to learn more about the delicate ecosystems and abundant wildlife in the park.

  • Book now: Flamingo Campgrounds

Camping (or glamping) immerses you in the serenity of this wild landscape. Located at the Homestead park entrance, you can access this unplugged escape with 274 tent sites, 65 RV sites, and glamping Eco-Tents. Houseboat rentals are also available from Flamingo Marina, where up to six guests can sleep on Whitewater Bay surrounded by croaking frogs and singing cicadas.

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The 15 Best Places to Visit in Florida

A leader in the travel and tourism industry, Kara Franker has served in executive leadership roles for several destination organizations. A seasoned journalist, Kara has been featured as a travel expert for Southern Living, Coastal Living, Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, Travel Channel, Travelocity, Orbitz, HGTV, Huffington Post and more. Additionally, she serves as Editor-in-Chief of several luxury lifestyle print magazines in the Miami, Palm Beach and Aspen markets for Modern Luxury.

top countries to visit florida

The Sunshine State is dotted with coastal seaside gems and these delightful destinations are must-visits for every style of traveler.

Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island might be Florida's best-kept secret because the postcard-perfect beaches here are rarely crowded. Celebrate the sun, sand and surf in November during the Symphony on the Sand festival , an exceptional beachfront concert series.

Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island

Rumored to once be a haven for pirates and other colorful characters, Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach is an enchanting seaside village chock-full of elegant Victorian architecture on Amelia Island. Go during the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival in May and enjoy a festive parade, great local seafood, and a pirate invasion by sea.

South Walton's Seaside neighborhood features a whimsical collection of pastel-colored homes, a great farmer's market, and an eclectic combo of local shops and restaurants. Listen to some of the best musical artists in the country during the annual 30A Songwriters Festival in January.

Pier 60, Clearwater Beach

Jutting out from one of the most gorgeous stretches of sand on the Gulf Coast, Pier 60 is home to a nightly sunset celebration featuring local artisans and loads of entertainment on Clearwater Beach. Go during the annual Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival , a 10-day celebration every spring that pays homage to the beach and features the most amazing sand-sculpted works of art—way more impressive than the average sandcastles.

South Beach Art Deco District, Miami Beach

Made famous in old-school movies like Scarface , Ocean Drive and the South Beach Art Deco District are home to fanciful pastel structures decked out in neon accents. Celebrate that iconic Art Deco architecture during the Miami Design Preservation League's Art Deco Weekend that takes place each January.

The Sunshine State is dotted with seaside gems, and these destinations are must-visits for every style of traveler. Here are the 15 very best places to check out from one shore to the other in fantastic Florida.

Worth Avenue, Palm Beach

Perhaps the most affluent area in the entire Sunshine State, Worth Avenue has an impressive collection of high-end shops and swanky cafes. While you should never need an excuse to go on the ultimate shopping spree, the Palm Beach International Boat Show in March is a great time to go because you can haul your loot away on a mega yacht.

Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach

Brimming with funky live music hotspots, lots of local art, and a calendar of events that will keep you entertained all year long, Delray Beach's Atlantic Avenue is a fun place for the whole family. One of the most popular events of the year is the lighting ceremony of the 100-foot Christmas Tree each December.

St. Augustine Historic District

Not only is St. Augustine one of the nation's oldest cities, it's brimming with Spanish colonial architecture inspired by the arrival of European explorers more than 500 years ago. Visit the historic district during the annual Nights of Lights (runs from Thanksgiving through the New Year) when the city is decked out in more than three million tiny white lights.

Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale

Stretching all the way to a gorgeous beach and lined with a variety of local boutiques, art galleries, and outdoor cafes, Las Olas Boulevard is Fort Lauderdale's best place to see and be seen. Go during the Annual Las Olas Art Fair , which has become so popular that there's three editions every year in January, March and October.

Historic Downtown Stuart

And last, but certainly not least, it's Coastal Living's Happiest Seaside Town of 2016! Offering a relaxed, flip-flop approach to life combined with Old Florida charm, Stuart's historic downtown is the ultimate Florida destination. Enjoy year-round live music during the Rock'n Riverwalk free open-air concert every Sunday.

Captiva Island

Renowned for its sugar white sand and excellent shelling, Captiva Island is an oasis where the best mode of transportation is via golf cart and the most useful itinerary is to beach, eat, sleep, and repeat. Seashell collectors unite during the annual Sanibel Shell Show taking place on both islands every March.

Fifth Avenue South, Naples

Glamorous shops, pedestrian-friendly promenades, and a great collection of Italian bistros, Fifth Avenue South in downtown Naples oozes with timeless charm. The annual Naples Downtown Art Show draws a well-heeled crowd of art enthusiasts who also happen to love the beach.

Duval Street, Key West

For the ultimate bar crawl, there's no better place in Florida to throw back a cold one (or two) than at the many watering holes that line lively Duval Street in Key West. The biggest street party of the year happens every October during Fantasy Fest , when fun-loving revelers descend on Duval wearing funky costumes for a wild extravaganza.

Beach Drive and Downtown St. Petersburg

Nestled next to the sharp blue waters of Tampa Bay, Beach Drive and the surrounding area of downtown St. Petersburg has gone through a renaissance with a host of new local eateries and artistic mainstays like The Dalí Museum . Visit during the annual Ribfest in the fall on the waterfront for a delectable combo of barbecue and rock bands.

St. Armands Circle, Sarasota

A lushly landscaped hub of stylish shops and local eateries, St. Armands Circle on Lido Key is a posh place to visit in Sarasota. Springtime is the perfect time to go, when the annual Sarasota Film Festival is in full swing, and you can catch an indie flick or an artsy up-and-comer during the when you can catch an indie flick or an artsy up-and-comer during the annual Sarasota Film Festival.

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14 of the best things to do in Florida

Christina Jane

Sep 18, 2023 • 9 min read

Couple kayaking together in mangrove river of the Keys, Florida, USA. Tourists kayakers touring the river of Islamorada.; Shutterstock ID 1325112503; your: Ben N Buckner; gl: 65050; netsuite: Client Services; full: Florida Keys - Outdoor adventures

From kayaking in the Everglades to photographing Miami icons, here are the best experiences in Florida © Maridav / Shutterstock

In addition to being home to some of the world’s most thrilling amusement parks , Florida has a captivating blend of experiences that fuse a rich history, diverse cities and natural encounters into an enticing escape.

Whether savoring Haitian cuisine within the borders of Little Haiti in Miami or submerging yourself into the waters of a crystal-clear spring, Florida is a trove of experiences that will have you planning your next trip before you even leave.

1. Spend a day at one of the many amusement parks

We figured we’d kick off this article with one of the best things Florida is known for – world-class amusement parks that promise endless excitement and unforgettable memories for people of all ages.

Everyone's heard of Disney , but with dozens of theme parks scattered around the state from Tampa to the theme park hub Orlando , there are so many others to choose from, and you can’t come to Florida without experiencing at least one!

Immerse yourself in the magic of Hollywood as you embark on movie-themed, thrill-seeking rides at Universal Studios . In 2024, the park is set to open its DreamWorks-themed area, where guests will be able to explore attractions from the animation studio’s most famous franchises like Shrek and Kung Fu Panda.

Inspire your little builder at Legoland , with its martial arts-themed area called Ninjago, plus a set of painstakingly recreated American cities in Miniland USA and a space to build your own block masterpiece. If you’re traveling with little ones who are avid Peppa Pig fans, they’ll squeal at the chance to run through the newly opened Peppa Pig Theme Park .

Planning tip: Check out the “Offers” page on the websites of the theme parks you visit instead of purchasing your tickets at face value. There are often promotions and discounted rates offered if you extend your days at the park, which could work in your favor and help save some cash.

2. Get a taste of Japanese culture at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

Keen on experiencing a taste of Japan without the 10+ hour flight from Florida? The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach makes it possible by bringing Japan to South Florida.

Built to preserve Japanese culture in Florida and build cultural understanding between Japan and the US, the site contains a museum and garden that vividly showcases aspects of Japan’s culture. Stroll through 16 acres of land outdoors, including a series of Japanese-inspired gardens, a bonsai collection, and lakes filled with koi fish and other structures.

The museum houses over 7000 Japanese art objects and artifacts, each telling a unique story of Japan’s rich culture. Hungry? Swing by the on-site cafe – the Pan-Asian menu allows visitors to indulge in tasty Japanese treats.

Planning tip: On select Saturdays, Morikami demonstrates a traditional Japanese tea ceremony inside the on-site Seishin-an tea house. Consider planning your visit around one of the days when a cultural demonstration will happen.

A young boy holding on tight on an airboat in the Florida Everglades

3. Skim through the waters of the Everglades on an airboat

When many people think of Florida, the Everglades are one of the first things that come to mind. A vast expanse of shimmering wetlands and lush marshes, the Everglades is a source of unique wildlife and natural preservation.

As the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States, the national park is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, providing habitat for various threatened and endangered species.

One of the best ways to explore the Everglades is onboard an airboat. Companies like Everglades Safari Park make it possible to easily spot alligators, turtles, birds, and many other animals that call the area home.

4. Embark on a safari from the comfort of your car

Your vehicle becomes a vessel of exploration at the Lion Country Safari , where you'll enjoy wildlife sightings as you journey through their naturalistic habitats.

Located in West Palm Beach , Lion Country Safari allows you to drive through a 4-mile safari inhabited by herds of animals. Giraffes, alpacas, lions, zebras, and ostriches are just a few of the many animals you can expect to see roaming the land.

Beyond the drive-through adventure, the park's walking areas provide up-close encounters with animals like goats in the petting zoo area. You can even opt for a complimentary pontoon boat ride for closer views of birds and primates.

5. Have dinner on a gondola in Fort Lauderdale

Unique dining experiences are scattered throughout Florida, and now you can create more memories with a gondola dinner in the state's Southern region. Run by Riverfront Gondola Tours , for 90 minutes, you and up to five guests will travel through the canals of Fort Lauderdale while enjoying your company and the views of the city.

With the option of ordering from Casa Sensei , a nearby waterfront restaurant, you can enjoy a fusion of Japanese and Latin cuisine on your ride until you return to the dock.

Two women crossing the street in Miami while laughing

6. Explore popular cultural neighborhoods in Miami

Home to a plethora of unique cultures, each neighborhood in Miami pulsates with its unique rhythm, offering an immersive experience into the heart of different cultures.

In Little Havana , the air is infused with soulful melodies of salsa music, while the historic landmarks tell tales of Cuban heritage. The markets, dance studios, spiritual businesses, and statues of prominent leaders like Touissant Louverture in Little Haiti form a community that proudly highlights Haitian culture.

Stop by the Historic Overtown, one of Miami's oldest neighborhoods that served as a cultural hub for Black artists during segregation. Exploring Miami's cultural neighborhoods promises an enriching journey where you'll leave with a broadened perspective and celebrate the global cultures woven into the city's identity.

Planning tip: For a more knowledgeable tour with personal insight and the opportunity to ask questions about some of the businesses and infrastructure of the different neighborhoods, we recommend booking a tour with reputable companies like Tap Tap Tours , who can explain the history and significance of each community.

7. Spot manatees through a clear kayak in Crystal River

Manatee season in Florida runs from November to April and is the perfect time to see these majestic animals as they migrate to Florida’s warm waters in the winter. While you could see manatees from an observation deck at facilities like the Manatee Lagoon , Get Up and Go Kayaking brings you straight to the manatees for an up-close yet respectful personal encounter.

With a two-hour nature tour inside a transparent kayak, you’ll get to paddle your way to see manatees from a different perspective.

8. Cruise on Biscayne Beach at high speeds with Thriller Miami

Miami is known for being a city with high energy, and there is perhaps no better experience to match that intensity than the Thriller Miami Speedboat . Setting sail from the docks at the Bayside Marketplace , the speedboat takes riders on a 45-minute sightseeing tour at speeds up to 40 mph.

Take in the Biscayne Bay , the City of Miami Beach, Fisher Island , and finish with a tour of the Mansions on Star Island, where you’ll see the homes of celebrities like Will Smith. You’ll experience lots of drops, twists, and turns in between on this ride and may even get a little wet.

Planning tip : Aim to get a seat toward the front or middle of the boat to avoid getting completely soaked. The last few rows on the boat are known to leave riders more drenched than they probably planned to be.

9. Stay in a colorful tiny home in Matlacha

Matlacha is a quaint, artsy town in Florida with a strong fishing community whose bright colorful shops can’t be missed. Within Matlacha, a tiny 5-home village awaits you for a unique stay in Florida.

For about $150 a night, the homes include a full kitchenette and access to community amenities like a BBQ grill, dock, deck, and kayak launch. A stay in one of the tiny homes also gives you the chance to explore the town and visit one of the local art galleries or even go on a fishing tour .

10. Learn about Florida’s Black History

Florida's Black history encompasses stories of triumph over adversity, resilience, and remarkable contributions. Thankfully, many historical sites in Florida are still in place or have been established to visit. The Mary McLeod Bethune Home in Daytona Beach is a testament to the life and legacy of educator, activist, and founder of Bethune­-Cookman University, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune.

In New Smyrna Beach, the Mary S. Harrell Black Heritage Museum houses and displays exhibits that reflect the history of race relations in Florida throughout the twentieth century. As you trace sites like these, you gain insights into various Black communities in the state and their invaluable contributions to modern-day Florida.

Saturn 5 rocket at Kennedy Space Center, Florida

11. Immerse yourself in space exploration at the Kennedy Space Center

The Kennedy Space Center in Merritt Island is a space lover's dream. As you step onto the facility's grounds, you'll find yourself engulfed in the world of innovative technology and exploration.

Organized into Mission Zones, where the attractions and tours are run by chronological era, the center truly takes you through a journey of the work that has been done in the industry, and what is to come. If you're lucky, you may visit during a live rocket launch and get to sit front row and center as yet another spacecraft launches into the air.

12. Stock up on fruits and veggies at the 99 cent Farmers Market

Leave some room in your luggage because Doug Specialties , the 99 cent Farmers Market in Pompano Beach, is going to take up some room. Known for its gloriously cheap produce, this farmers' market is rising in popularity in the area for those seeking to shop at affordable prices. While not everything is $0.99, many items in stock can still be obtained at a great price, making it a win for everyone.

Planning tip: On weekends, the market has free BBQ for shoppers, so bring your bags to shop and an empty stomach!

13. Recharge in the waters of Ginnie Springs

Nestled in the natural splendor of High Springs, Ginnie Springs emerges as a destination whose crystal-clear waters provide the perfect day trip or weekend escape. Whether you’re in the mood to go tubing in the calming waters, snorkeling in the river where catfish and other critters lie, or exploring underwater caves, Ginnie Springs is truly a Florida gem.

Planning tip: As you can imagine, many people aim to experience these clear waters, so crowding is often an issue at Ginnie. To combat this, consider visiting on a weekday and avoid holidays.

14. Paint the walls at Miami’s outdoor street art museum

Composed of walls elaborately painted by worldwide artists, Wynwood Walls has become a "must-see" stop when in Miami. Held primarily outdoors, the museum is an artistic oasis, with every corner unveiling creative, colorful pieces of large murals that tell their own unique story.

One of the most exciting parts of visiting Wynwood Walls is the "Street Art Experience," where you're given bottles of spray paint to contribute a piece of your artistry to the walls. The vibrancy of this museum encapsulates Miami's artistic soul, extending the spirit of creativity with you as you continue your journey through Florida.

Planning tip: If you are a student, don't forget to bring your student ID card to receive 50% off the admission fee!

This article was first published September 2021 and updated September 2023

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The Best Time to Visit Florida for Fewer Crowds, Better Weather, and Travel Deals

Whether you want to lounge on the beach, hit the theme parks, or explore the Sunshine State's cities and small towns, these are the best times to visit Florida.

top countries to visit florida

Aside from beaches, theme parks, and nonstop sunshine, one of Florida's biggest draws is that there's never a bad time to visit. The weather is warm all year round, so you'll never have your plans dashed by a snowstorm or need to pack a winter coat.

Florida does, however, have weather concerns of other types, from blazingly hot summers to the dreaded hurricane season. There are also crowds to account for, as well as fluctuating prices on travel essentials like hotels and flights. The tourist seasons in Florida vary by destination, but in general, North Florida's popularity peaks in summer and tapers off in winter, while South Florida hits its peak in winter and is less popular during the summer months. Throughout the state, the fall and late spring (once spring break ends) are typically known as shoulder seasons.

The best time to visit Florida depends on your specific needs — the purpose of your trip, plus your itinerary, budget, and more — but the bottom line is that the Florida vacation of your dreams is within reach, as long as you plan accordingly.

Best Times to Visit Florida for Smaller Crowds

Avoiding the crowds in Florida is a tall order. It's a desirable place to be, and visitors flock to the state all year round. However, some months are quieter than others. In South Florida, for example, high temperatures and storm risk make the summer months the least busy. At Orlando's theme parks and many of the state's best beaches , though, you'll find thousands of families out and about in the summer. For these family-friendly destinations, a visit when school is in session will likely offer the smallest crowds.

You may not be able to avoid all other tourists on your visit to Florida, but you can do yourself a favor by traveling outside the peak periods. Panama City Beach at spring break, the Florida Keys during lobster-hunting "mini season," and St. Augustine around Christmastime are all hyper-popular itineraries that the crowd-averse may want to skip.

Visitors can also find thinner crowds at any time by visiting under-the-radar destinations instead of the state's well-known spots. Swapping the Everglades for a state park or South Beach for Santa Rosa Island can help you enjoy Florida's famous sun and sights with plenty of elbow room.

Best Times to Visit Florida for Good Weather

Sunny skies and warm weather are two of the main factors that draw tourists to Florida, and no matter when you visit, you're likely to find at least a bit of each. Conditions do vary, though, depending on the time of year and the destination. In Florida's subtropical south, winter — roughly November to April — offers the best weather, with temperatures generally topping out at around 80 degrees. Further north, spring and fall can be the nicest seasons. (In the Panhandle's Walton County , for instance, temperatures in these months tend to hover in the 70s, making for pleasant conditions on land and in the water.)

Florida's summers, on the other hand, are notoriously hot — especially inland, where there's no sea breeze to keep things cool(ish). Most of the state sees both high temperatures and high humidity at this time of year, and with even ocean temperatures passing 90 degrees in recent summers, there's no guarantee that a swim will cool you down. Summer also overlaps with Atlantic hurricane season, which stretches from June to November, and it's known for near-daily pop-up storms, too. If you do choose to visit Florida in the summer, be sure to pack both an umbrella and plenty of sunscreen and drinking water.

Best Times to Visit Florida for Lower Prices

The best time to visit Florida for travel deals and lower prices depends on your destination. If you're heading to the beaches or theme parks, summer is a peak season and you might be hard pressed to find available rooms, much less a good deal.

But some places in Florida simmer down during the summer months. Take Palm Beach , for example: The island is booming from November through April, but during off season (May through October, when the snowbirds head home and the social set jets to the Hamptons), you'll find a glimmer of the quiet town it once was. This is also when nightly hotel rates are usually slashed to a fraction of their extravagant high-season prices.

The cheapest months to fly to Florida are typically May (except for Memorial Day weekend) and September. You can score great deals if you plan ahead and aim for just outside your destination's peak season.

Jamie Ditaranto/Travel + Leisure

Best Times to Visit Miami

What fun-loving person can resist a visit to Miami ? The Magic City is buzzy, sultry, and unapologetically vibrant. Go in the spring to find fewer crowds, more pleasant temperatures, and plenty of events (like Ultra Music Festival and Formula 1's Miami Grand Prix ), or plan a summer trip if you want to experience Miami at its least crowded — and, yes, sizzle on South Beach like a fresh-cooked tostón.

Winter is a fabulous time to visit Miami — temperatures are mild and humidity is lower — but lots of other people think so, too, so you'll have crowds and peak hotel pricing to contend with. Still, it's arguably worth it to attend Art Basel or a Miami Heat game.

If you like living the high life, we'll let you in on an insider secret: Despite its sweltering weather, August is arguably the best month to visit Miami. August is the only time when Miami's Spa Months , Restaurant Months , and Hotel Months all overlap, so you can treat yourself to the city's best dining, lodging, and pampering at a fraction of the usual cost.

Best Time to Visit the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are one of the best places to visit in Florida, a subtropical delight with nice weather year round. But beware of peak tourist season, which begins right after Christmas and lasts until about May. It's beautiful this time of year — there's very little rain, and temperatures are usually in the 70s — but that pleasant environment comes with high prices and large crowds.

Those crowds and prices taper off from May through September, and temperatures typically remain manageable, with summer highs of around 90 degrees. Hurricane season, though, can put a damper on an off-season visit — storms are most common in the Keys in August, September, and October. That said, if you're willing to accept some storm risk and humidity, summer can yield excellent deals.

For extra fun in the Keys, plan your visit to coincide with a festival like the Original Marathon Seafood Festival (March), the 7 Mile Bridge Run (April), the Key Lime Festival (June/July), Hemingway Days (July), the Key West Brewfest (September), or Fantasy Fest (October).

Best Times to Visit Florida's Theme Parks

Summer is the off-season for most of Florida, due to the extra-hot weather and potential for storms, but beach towns and theme parks are the exception to the rule.

Disney World is a popular destination year round; there's nary a day when you won't encounter crowds and long lines at this beloved resort. But if you want a month that's slightly less crowded than the others, try January (after the holiday rush), February, or September (when kids are back in school and Halloween festivities haven't quite kicked off).

It may be convenient for families, but visiting the theme parks during summer break guarantees super-long lines in super-hot weather. Visiting around any holiday is fun thanks to seasonal park decor, but it also means dense crowds — you're not the only one who'll be clamoring for a taste of the holiday spirit. Once Christmas and New Year crowds dissipate, though, a Goldilocks window begins, since winter is the best time to visit Disney World for good weather.

Worst Times to Visit Florida

The Sunshine State contains such a wide variety of destinations that it's almost impossible to declare one season as Florida's worst. But, unless you're a party-hopping college student, there is one time that you'll likely want to avoid: spring break.

A whopping 7.3 million travelers passed through the Orlando airport during the 2023 spring break season — that's early March through the middle of April — and countless more arrive in the state each spring through other airports and by car. Florida boasts beautiful weather in the springtime, and many families, of course, have no option but to travel when their school schedules allow. If you are flexible, though, choosing a different window will likely help you save money and avoid wall-to-wall crowds.

Summer is a risky time to visit, since the weather tends to be muggy at best. Traveling during this off-season can net you good deals, but you'll want to come prepared for the heat and the storms that a Florida summer can bring.

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Great places to visit in florida, region by region, here's how to discover some of florida’s greatest hits, all across the state.  , north florida.

A treasure trove of history, heritage and higher education, North Florida is also known for its casual, friendly attitude and abundant natural attractions.

The region’s metro areas are filled with new offerings. Downtown  Pensacola ’s historic district is experiencing a culture and nightlife renaissance. Packed with vibrant art galleries, upscale eateries and retail options,  Central Palafox Street  was recently named one of the “10 Great Streets in America” by the American Planning Association.

On  Panama City Beach , the family-friendly Pier Park shopping and dining complex added Dave & Buster’s, a popular dining and video arcade chain.

In  Jacksonville , shoppers are flocking to St. Johns Town Center, which now includes the region’s first Nordstrom outlet and a children’s play area with a seashore theme. Near the actual seashore on  Jacksonville Beach , the newly renovated  Beaches Museum & History Park  captures pivotal moments in history along Florida’s First Coast. After stepping back in time in the nearby  St. Augustine historic district , zoom into the present with tours on The El Conquistador Speedboat or St. Augustine Biplane Rides.

For an invigorating nature experience, take a dip in the ancient, crystal-clear springs at  Wakulla Springs State Park .

Or go for a swim in the first-magnitude spring at  Manatee Springs State Park . More adventurous possibilities, like river tubing and snorkeling, await you in  Ichetucknee Springs State Park  and  Ginnie Springs Outdoors .

Did you know…

The natural spring in  Wakulla Springs State Park  is one of Florida’s largest; 260 million gallons of water gush out of it every day. A 25,000-year-old mastodon skeleton found in the park is on display at the  Museum of Florida History in Tallahassee .

Universal Orlando

 Universal Orlando Resort has Diagon Alley at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. -Universal Orlando

CENTRAL FLORIDA

Fun has no age limit in Central Florida. Besides world-famous theme parks, you’ll find charming cities and towns and plenty of options for playing in and exploring nature’s many wonders.

Universal Orlando Resort  has Diagon Alley at the  Wizarding World of Harry Potter .

Walt Disney World Resort  features the  Seven Dwarfs Mine Train  at Magic Kingdom.  Busch Gardens  upped their thrill quotient with high-speed ride Falcon’s Fury, as did  Aquatica  with its drop slide, Ihu’s Breakaway Falls.  LEGOLAND  added farm-themed  DUPLO Valley  and  LEGOLAND Hotel .

At  Kennedy Space Center , the interactive Great Balls of Fire asteroid exhibit and daily “Activity Adventures” offer experiences that are both enriching and fun. The Sundial  dining and entertainment center in St. Petersburg adds to the already booming downtown dining, nightlife and craft beer scene. In Daytona Beach, the  Cici and Hyatt Brown Museum of Art  features an extensive collection of Florida art.

Connecting to the 46-mile  Withlacoochee State Trail , the  Dunnellon Trail  is giving hiking and cycling enthusiasts a whole new reason to head into nature.

Crystal River  is the only place in North America where it is legal to have a supervised s wim with wild manatees .

Art deco

 Miami Beach’s Art Deco District has 800 historically significant structures, the majority built between 1923 and 1943. With their fanciful pastel colors, porthole windows and sleek curves, the buildings are pure eye candy.

SOUTH FLORIDA

From the East Coast’s cosmopolitan scene and the Keys’ eccentric island charms to the West Coast’s shimmering seashore and the Everglades’ raw wilderness, South Florida is the definition of diversity.

The city meets the sand in  Miami Beach , where the historic  Art Deco District  continually celebrates revitalization. The Boca Raton  makes waves with its new double-sided FlowRider simulator and Surf Boca classes by Billabong. The  Hollywood Beach Broadwalk  was named by  USA Today  as one of the nation’s 10 best beach boardwalks for food, and it's great for people watching.

And the  Margaritaville Beach Resort  should be on every visitor’s hit list.

In  Sarasota , the cool children’s garden at  Marie Selby Botanical Gardens  adds to the region’s immersive nature experiences.  Country  magazine recently named the nearby  Myakka River State Park  as one of the nation’s top 10 most magnificent yet unheralded parks.  Naples , too, wins awards – for its stellar beaches.

Naples is also heralded for its dining options, and  Condé Nast Traveler  named Naples one of the top 20 U.S. Cities for Foodies. In North Fort Myers, The  Shell Factory & Nature Park  offers fascination and fun with its fossil museum and zip line.

In the Florida Keys, you can discover Marathon ’s riveting fish tanks at  Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters  and Key West Legal Rum Distillery .

Miami Beach’s Art Deco District has 800 historically significant structures, the majority built between 1923 and 1943. With their fanciful pastel colors, porthole windows and sleek curves, the buildings are pure eye candy.

PLACES TO REMEMBER

Beach at Pensacola Still

Panama City Beach

Jacksonville

Jacksonville

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Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

My 20 Favorite Places To Visit In The Florida Panhandle

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Visitors often overlook Florida’s panhandle in favor of south Florida destinations. They don’t know what they’re missing. There’s history, art, and wildlife — it’s real Florida. I took a road trip across the panhandle and here are some of my favorite spots.

Parts of my trip were sponsored but all opinions are my own.

1. Monticello

The Monticello Courthouse with the Opera House to the right

I toured Monticello’s historic district. The courthouse has the place of honor at the square with the 1890 opera house across the street. There’re dozens of historic homes around the district. ABC-TV called it the Most Haunted Small Town in the U.S.

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2. St. Marks

St. Marks Lighthouse near St. Marks, Florida

St. Marks is one of the oldest settlements in North America and home to San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park and St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge . I saw lots of wildlife here. The drive out to the lighthouse is worth it even though it’s temporarily closed.

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Gulf Specimen Marine Laboratory in Panacea, Florida

The Oaks RV Resort and Motel was my home-away-from-home in Wakulla County. Each RV site is paved and has electric, water, and sewage. There’s everything you need, including a pool and hot tub. The bathrooms have a locking door, a commode, a lavatory, and a lovely shower furnished like a home bathroom. There is a cute motel here as well with each room decorated differently.

It’s a short drive to Mashes Sands Beach . I took beautiful photos of the sunset, several birds, and what might be a Choctawhatchee beach mouse, one of four Florida Panhandle subspecies classified as endangered or threatened.

Another place to view sea life is Gulf Specimen Marine Laboratory . It’s a small but educational aquarium and more.

For a tiny town, Panacea has fabulous dining. Posey’s Steam Room & Oyster Bar and Tropical Trader Shrimp Company both fed me delicious seafood.

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4. Wakulla Springs

The Lodge in Wakulla Springs, Florida

As a kid, my favorite horror movie was Creature from the Black Lagoon filmed at Wakulla Springs . Some early Tarzan movies and many others were filmed here, too. I visited the springs in the past and rode the Jungle Cruise ; I loved the amazing amount of wildlife seen on it. This time, I visited the historic Lodge and had breakfast in Edwin Ball Dining Room . It thrilled me to see the original creature costume and the longest marble soda fountain ever built. There are also remnants of the first Wakulla County post office that was once here.

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5. Sopchoppy

The Historic Sopchoppy Train Depot

Historic Sopchoppy Train Depot reminded me of the era when trains were the main form of transportation.

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6. Crawfordville

Historic Old Wakulla County Courthouse and Old Wakulla County Jail tell the history of Wakulla County.

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The Torreya tree, a rare species, grows only on the bluffs along the Apalachicola River. They named Torreya State Park for those trees. It was my camp for 4 days while I explored the surrounding area.

I visited a beautiful plantation mansion that the park houses: Gregory House circa 1849.

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A mural in Quincy, Florida

Quincy’s 36-block historic district is amazing. You can download the walking tour here .

The Quincy Leaf Theatre is one of Gadsden County’s most haunted theaters. It’s still an active theater today.

Gadsden Arts Center & Museum is in the historic Bell & Bates building. Exhibits range from nationally acclaimed artists to local children’s work.

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A mural in Havana, Florida

One of my most amazing discoveries was the tiny town of Havana , once the shade tobacco capital of the world. The unique tobacco was grown as early as 1829 and the town was incorporated in 1906. For a town with a population under 2,000, it packs a big wallop. Main Street feels like the early 1900s and is filled with antique shops, art galleries, restaurants, and garden shops. Murals are all over town.

The Shade Tobacco Museum is a real eye opener to something I never knew existed. It’s currently only open on Saturday but is a must-see.

Planters Exchange , built in 1928 as a warehouse for the unique tobacco used as cigar wrappers, is now an antique mall with over 30 dealers.

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10. Chattahoochee

Chattahoochee Landing Mounds, an ancient ceremonial site

One of the South’s most significant archaeological sites dating to the Mississippian era (AD 900–1550), the Chattahoochee Landing Mounds complex was a must-see. There are only three mounds left but it’s also the site where Native and Black Seminole warriors captured an American ship shortly after the outbreak of the first Seminole War on November 30, 1817. I drove deeper into the park to see the Jim Woodruff Dam .

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11. Marianna

Light display at Florida Caverns State Park

Florida Caverns State Park is Marianna’s biggest attraction. People seldom think of caves in Florida, but these are deep and beautiful. I drove past dozens of historic homes. The visitor center is in one of them, the Russ House & Visitor Center , a Classical Revival/Queen Anne home said to be haunted.

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12. Graceville

The Clark Wall House at Baptist College Heritage Village

Baptist College Heritage Village is an amazing collection of homes, churches, and businesses from pioneer days to the mid-1900s.

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13. Chipley

The author embracing Iasha at Seacrest Wolf Preserve

Falling Waters State Park is a 73-foot waterfall, Florida’s highest waterfall, with several sinkholes to view. This was the site of the first oil drilling in the state of Florida in 1919. 

When I visited the Orange Hill Gator Farm , the cutest little buck greeted me. Cricket, now about 9 months old, was rescued and became a free-ranging pet at the farm. There are many kinds of alligators, ranging from hatchlings to huge monsters. There are even two albino gators. Besides the alligators, there are many other animals in the petting zoo. Its kid-friendly, 2-hour tour lets you hold and feed tiny gators.

Seacrest Wolf Preserve offers a close encounter with wolves. It was such a thrill to touch, pet, and even be kissed by Dreamer; his sister, Iasha; and the pack’s alpha, Pawnee. Since the pandemic, they are only offering private tours, but watch for the group tours reopening. Those include the Small Animal Adventure, where you see the gray and Arctic wolves, foxes, and raccoons.

The Washington County Historical Society has a museum at the former Bill Lee Train Depot complete with an old locomotive. Third Street Historic District has many historic homes.

Sister’s Sweets, Eats & More is a family-owned dessert bakery and it’s where I had a delicious quesadilla. Sliced Deli is great for a quick snack or to buy lunch meats and cheeses. I had their New York Hot Dog and loved it.

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14. Blountstown

The Panhandle Pioneer Settlement, home to 18 historic buildings

The Panhandle Pioneer Settlement features 18 historic buildings including a general store, blacksmith shop, firehouse, church, and doctor’s office. The buildings were furnished in period style. During festivals, there are costumed docents. Patty, the site director, said it’s best to request a tour but they will take you around, if possible, even if you just pop in as I did.

M and B Railroad Museum showcases the shortest railroad line in Florida. Beginning in 1909, the line ran between Marianna and Blountstown. The old steam engine was my favorite.

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Blackwater River State Park near Milton, Florida

My base to visit Pensacola and Fort Walton Beach was Blackwater River State Park . It isn’t the closest choice, located about an hour’s drive inland from either beach, but it’s one of the most beautiful Florida state parks thanks to the Blackwater River. It’s wonderful for kayaking or canoeing, but I didn’t have time for that. I did swim in the clear, cool river, though.

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16. Grayton Beach

Arcadia Mill Archaeological Site near Grayton Beach, Florida

Western Lake , partially inside Grayton Beach State Park , is probably the most photographed coastal dune lake. You’ll find dune lakes in only a few locations worldwide and just two states in the U.S. These freshwater lakes, located just feet from the Gulf of Mexico , are found only in the South Walton area of Florida.

Arcadia Mill Archaeological Site remembers the first and largest 19th century water-powered industrial complex in northwest Florida. There’s a museum telling the mill story and a 1.3-mile loop trail.

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17. Eglin Air Force Base

A display at the Air Force Armament Museum

Air Force Armament Museum is the only museum in the world telling the story of Air Force weaponry. Displays, indoors and outdoors, showcase Air Force history from WWI to the present.

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18. Fort Walton Beach

An artifact at the Indian Temple Mound Museum

Heritage Park & Cultural Center is a collection of museums. The Indian Temple Mound and Museum are my favorites. There are three others: The Civil War building shows life here as a Confederate camp; Camp Walton Schoolhouse Museum shows how children were educated in the early days; and Garnier Post Office Museum is the town’s first post office building.

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A display at the Destin History & Fishing Museum

Destin History & Fishing Museum tells why Destin is famous as a fishing village. There are exhibits inside and outside. Outside, you’ll find Primrose, a historic seine boat originally used by the first fisherman in the area and the original Old Post Office. Inside, exhibits range from the annual Destin Fishing Rodeo to sea life found here and more.

In 2015, Lucy Buffett branched out from her world-famous Gulf Shores, Alabama , location and opened a LuLu’s in Destin. She also has a location in Myrtle Beach . This restaurant is at the Legendary Marine complex, right under the Mid-Bay Bridge. Lucy is a beach person, much like her brother, Jimmy Buffett. I had the shrimp and oyster combo and loved it. Dessert was an enormous brownie with ice cream.

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20. Pensacola

Fort Pickens in Pensacola, Florida

Pensacola beaches rank in the top 10 annually. Gulf Islands National Seashore is the most pristine. It’s where Fort Pickens is located. Mostly enslaved men from New Orleans built Fort Pickens in 1829. On November 22, 1861, it saw action when the Civil War erupted. The feeling of history fascinated me as I toured the fort.

My favorite museum here is the Pensacola Museum of History . It tells Pensacola’s history under five flags. Directly behind the museum, there is a historic village showing life as it was in Pensacola colonial times.

I found lots of art here. Pensacola Museum of Art is housed in the 1906 jail. I found uniquely painted pelicans and murals scattered around Pensacola.

Pensacola Maritime Heritage Trail begins at Veteran’s Memorial Park and stretches along the waterfront and historic district. It tells the story of Pensacola’s waterfront shipping history.

Dining in Pensacola is over the top. I had the Lighthouse Platter at Nick’s Boathouse and tried my first Bushwhacker at Casino Beach Bar & Grill . It won’t be my last. Five Sisters Blues Cafe , in the Belmont-DeVilliers neighborhood, rates a marker on the Mississippi Blues Trail.

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Image of Kathleen Walls

Kathleen Walls is a road trip enthusiast and the writer and publisher for American Roads and Global Highways . Additionally, she has authored numerous travel books including Georgia's Ghostly Getaways , Finding Florida's Phantoms , Hosts With Ghosts , and the Wild About Florida series. According to Kathleen "the only thing nearly as much fun as traveling to new places is telling everyone about those places with my writing."

5 things to know about only Florida spot on New York Times list of places to see in 2024

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A South Florida city many may not have heard of has made the New York Times list of 52 places to go in 2024. 

Squeaking in at No. 52, Flamingo was the only Florida location was on the New York Times list.

Here's what New York Times had to say about Flamingo

"Rediscover a beloved lodge in the heart of the Everglades " with the reopening of the Flamingo Lodge, along with a renovated visitor center and restaurant.

"The return of the beloved facilities, along with glamping 'eco-tents,' has given birders, stargazers and anglers a reason to reconnect with the outpost of Flamingo, on mainland Florida’s southernmost tip and less than two hours by car from Miami.

"And if you’re lucky, you may spot flamingos in Florida Bay," the New York Times said.

Gem close to Naples: New York Times 'Best Places to Go' list for 2024 includes this Florida gem close to Naples

Here are 5 things to know about Flamingo.

Where is Flamingo, Florida?

Flamingo is located on the southernmost tip of Florida within Everglades National Park. 

Here's how far Flamingo is from several South Florida cities:

  • 84 miles from Miami
  • 87 miles from Naples
  • 107 miles from Fort Lauderdale

What can you find in Flamingo?

Flamingo is "one of world's premier destinations for wildlife viewing and outdoor recreation, " according to Flamingo Adventures.

Florida Lodge accommodations

The Flamingo Lodge and Restaurant offers 24 "breathtaking" new lodging rooms, along with an indoor/outdoor restaurant, all as you're surrounded by the Everglades, according to Flamingo Adventures .

Alternative accommodations include staying in a houseboat, an eco-tent , or one of the area campgrounds.

The Guy Bradley Visitor Center offers information from park rangers, educational displays, informational brochures, a gift shop, and backcountry permits. Campground facilities , a public boat ramp and a marina store. Hiking and canoeing trails are located near the visitor center, according to the National Park Service.

What can you do in Flamingo?

You can rent bicycles, canoes, kayaks, and motorboats and even houseboats.

Don't want to go out alone? Take a 90-minute boat tour with a naturalist or park ranger. Tours include a backcountry tour to Whitewater Bay or a tour of Florida Bay, according to the National Park Service.

Camping in the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Wilderness requires advance reservations. 

Get ready to unplug in Flamingo

Reception and WiFi are unreliable in Flamingo, according to the Park Service. "Generally, AT&T is the only cell service provider with signal anywhere west of Nine Mile Pond."

There is public wifi available inside the Guy Bradley Visitor Center but it doesn't extend to outside and it's available only when the center is open.

Flamingo on social media

What other us locations made new york times list.

U.S. locations specifically mentioned among the top 52 locations to visit in 2024 were:

  • Maui, Hawaii
  • Crates of the Moon, Idaho
  • Baltimore, Maryland
  • Kansas City, Missouri
  • Montgomery, Alabama
  • Pasadena, California
  • Boundary Waters, Minnesota

What was listed as No. 1 on the best places to visit in 2024?

Taking the No. 1 slot on the New York Times list were the states in the path of the total solar eclipse , which takes place April 8.

States in the path of totality include: Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse, according to NASA . 

7 Places To Retire In Florida On The Gulf Coast

Florida's Gulf Coast is one of the most beautiful places in the US and also happens to be a great retirement spot with multiple options for retirees.

  • Florida's Gulf Coast offers beautiful retirement spots with breathtaking natural scenery and top-rated attractions.
  • Seniors can find tranquility in small towns like Destin or affordability in cities like Sarasota on the Gulf Coast.
  • From the laid-back vibe of Tarpon Springs to the safety of Miramar Beach, seniors have endless options for an ideal retirement.

Seniors consider various factors when choosing a retirement location. Some look for tranquility, a peaceful atmosphere, and a small-town vibe, while others want to settle for vibrant cities with top-notch facilities. Florida's Gulf Coast is home to some of the most beautiful places in the U.S., and one of the reasons it's a great retirement destination is its breathtaking natural scenery and multiple top-rated attractions. The Sunshine State offers plenty of places to retire , and whether seeking affordability or safety, the options are endless, seniors will find it on the Gulf Coast. These incredible spots on Florida's Gulf Coast guarantee an ideal lifestyle and retirement experience.

9 Reasons To Retire In Florida Over Arizona

Beautiful weather, beachfront, small-town vibe, and multiple senior communities.

Nestled on the Florida Panhandle on the Gulf of Mexico, Destin has always been considered one of the perfect family beach destinations in the U.S. , thanks to its amazing attractions, like Henderson Beach State Park, which offers multiple kid-friendly amenities, like playgrounds.

But this city is also a wonderful retirement destination, thanks to its beautiful weather, fun activities for retirees, and plenty of senior living communities, including Destin Health & Rehabilitation Center and Bay Port of Fort Walton Beach . It is a great option for those looking for a small-town beachfront spot with a laid-back vibe.

Low cost of living, beautiful natural scenery, outdoor recreation, and quality healthcare

Sarasota is the cheapest place to retire in Florida , thanks to its multiple budget living options. The city's average cost of rent is $1,556 , which is cheaper than the state's median of $1,790 . Also, mortgages are quite affordable, with an average household paying $1,531 and the median interest rate for a 30-year fixed loan standing at 5.29% .

Sarasota is incredibly stunning and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Seniors will enjoy spending time at Sarasota Beach, one of the most beautiful East Coast Beaches . Some of the city's outdoor adventures for seniors include golfing, fishing, biking, and horseback riding. Sarasota boasts quality healthcare, and its Sarasota Memorial Hospital is among the top-rated hospitals in the U.S.

5 Longboat Key

Beautiful beaches, outdoor recreation, plenty of green spaces.

Situated 25 miles south of Tampa, Longboat Key is one of the best places to retire on the Gulf Coast. It is home to multiple green spaces, including Bayfront Park , Bicentennial Park , and Joan M Durante Park , which is one of the best things seniors need to have a peaceful retirement. Longboat is home to multiple gorgeous beaches, which offer fun activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, and watersports. The city boasts several recreational opportunities for retirees, including fishing, boating, golf courses, and bicycling.

8 Retirement Spots In Florida That Are Also Great Vacation Spots

4 tarpon springs, lower cost of living, friendly atmosphere, amazing greek cultural heritage, and beautiful weather.

Many things make Tarpon Springs one of the best places to retire on Florida's Gulf Coast. The city offers a reasonable cost of living that's 2% lower than the U.S. average, but the actual amount one spends depends on their lifestyle, average income, and the real estate market of their location. But on average, retirees will need about $48,200 to live comfortably in Tarpon Springs . The atmosphere is incredibly friendly and residents work to ensure newcomers feel welcome and right at home. The city's beautiful weather allows seniors to enjoy multiple outdoor recreational opportunities. Tarpon Springs boasts a rich Greek cultural heritage, which comes with a wonderful food scene and breathtaking architecture.

3 Miramar Beach

Pristine beaches, diversity, outdoor recreation, and safety.

From pristine beaches to palm trees to beachside restaurants and bars, there are plenty of reasons to love Miramar Beach. The small community makes a perfect retirement spot due to the fact it's one of the most diverse beach towns in South Walton and guarantees fun experiences for retirees of various interests. One can go shopping, explore the nightlife scene, or enjoy the endless fun beach activities, including swimming and beach volleyball. Seniors will find multiple outdoor recreational opportunities here, such as golfing, biking, nature hikes, and more. At a crime rate of only 5.87 per 1,000 residents, Miramar Beach is one of the safest beach towns in Florida.

2 St. Petersburg

Low cost of living, a rich history, beautiful weather, and a vibrant arts community.

There are plenty of things to do in St. Petersburg , including St. Pete Pier and Tropicana Field. But that is just one of the things that makes it a great tourist destination in Florida. This coastal gem is one of the best retirement spots on Florida's Gulf Coast. The city offers an affordable cost of living and a rich history that dates back to 1875 , when it was first inhabited by the Calusa Indians. It has a vibrant arts community, gorgeous beaches, and warm year-round weather.

Step Into The Mind Of A Master: Explore The Salvador Dali Museum In St. Petersburg, Florida

1 panama city beach, low cost of living, beautiful beaches, quality healthcare, and amazing weather.

There are many reasons why Panama City Beach is one of the most popular spots in Florida , including fun festivals and gorgeous state parks like St. Andrews State Park . This Gulf Coast gem is also a great retirement spot. Affordable living expenses are one of the main reasons seniors are flocking to the city. It boasts multiple fun activities for retirees, a year-round warm climate, and top-notch healthcare services, which are easily accessible to seniors. Panama City Beach is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Florida, where seniors can relax with activities like sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the gorgeous views.

Is your favorite No. 1? Here are the top 10 beaches worldwide, according to Tripadvisor

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A trip to the beach is always a good idea. 

Beaches rank as the top preferred vacation destination among 34% of Americans, according to a 30A Company 2022 survey of 1,040 U.S. adults. Even just the act of planning a vacation can make someone happy. 

You likely understand why if you’ve ever spent time on a beach. The place where the water meets the land is a treat for the senses, from the sound of the water lapping the sand to the crisp scent of the salt in the air. Beaches are some of the most beautiful places.

Relaxing beachside is beneficial for your well-being , too. Saltwater has been found to release negative ions that help people feel calmer, and the meditative sound of waves can offer a sense of grounding. Even if you’re not frolicking in the water, the beach is where people can easily connect with nature, which is healing. 

Luckily, there are beautiful beaches everywhere, from places renowned for postcard-perfect beaches like Turks and Caicos to the rugged cliffside beaches of Italy. Tripadvisor recently released its 2024 Travelers’ Choice Award for Beaches, which analyzed reviews and ratings between Oc. 1, 2022, and Sept. 30, 2023, to come up with the best beaches worldwide.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

If you're not into rough waves: This little beach earned the top spot of the calmest beaches in North America

“Who doesn't love a beach? It's certainly my happy place – my kids playing in the surf, the sun sinking behind the horizon. And as the breadth and depth of Tripadvisor's Travelers' Choice Beach lists show, our community is obsessed with them, too,” Sarah Firshein, head of Tripadvisor editorial, told USA TODAY in a statement.

While last year’s best beaches included a wide variety of striking natural landscapes, this year’s awards brought back the picturesque soft sands and crystal-clear waters people imagine when they think of a beach vacation. 

Here are the top 10 best beaches around the world, according to Tripadvisor.

10. Varadero Beach – Varadero, Cuba

A former fishing town, Varadero Beach is situated on the Hicacos Peninsula and stretches along the Caribbean Sea. The sprawling beach actually comprises six beaches , including Varadero, Rincón Francés and La Alameda, so there’s plenty of space to spread out. Visitors enjoy taking a refreshing dip in the vibrant water, snorkeling the sea beds, or water sports like jet skiing or windsurfing. 

9. Siesta Beach – Siesta Key, Florida, U.S.

Snagging the spot as Tripadvisor's second-best beach in the U.S.,Siesta Beach is located on the stunning barrier island of Siesta Key in Florida. This slice of paradise is renowned for its white quartz sand, which is often called the softest sand in the world. A free island-wide trolley service makes it easy for guests to go to and from the beach.

8. Eagle Beach – Aruba, Caribbean

Aruba’s wide Eagle Beach stole people’s hearts last year by ranking as the second-best beach in the world. This idyllic beach is known for its calm waters and the chance to catch nesting turtles in summer. Eagle Beach invites visitors to unwind in paradise, whether basking in the sun's warmth, snorkeling amidst marine life, or simply strolling along its picturesque shores.

7. Manly Beach – Sydney, Australia

Manly Beach is known as the birthplace of surfing in Australia, having hosted the world’s first modern surfing contest in 1964. Besides trying out surfing, visitors can swim, dive, or sail along the stunning shoreline. Manly Beach is a long stretch of sand and includes a small cove, an enclosed swimming area for families and Shelly Beach, a sheltered spot for snorkeling. When people need respite from the sun and sand, they can walk the tree-lined promenade for food or shopping.   

6. Anse Lazio – Praslin Island, Seychelles

Tucked into a bay on Praslin Island, Anse Lazio feels like a hidden oasis. The background of the pristine shoreline and azure sea are lush tropical greenery and large boulders. On Tripadvisor, visitors said they enjoyed playing in the waves or grabbing a drink at the on-site beach bar.

5. Grace Bay Beach – Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos

This Caribbean beach earned the same ranking in last year’s Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award for Beaches, and it’s no wonder why. Facing the Atlantic Ocean, Grace Bay Beach captivates visitors with its tranquil ambiance since the turquoise waters are never rough, thanks to an offshore reef. Since the beach is part of the Princess Alexandra National Park , it remains pristine and unspoiled.

4. Kaanapali Beach – Lahaina, Hawaii, U.S.

Often called the best beach in the U.S. , Kaanapali Beach offers sparkling warm water and soft white sand. The one-mile-long beach is the ultimate beach escape for anyone, offering cliff-jumping, paddleboarding, snorkeling or just frolicking in its gentle waters. And since the beach is west-facing, it’s the perfect place to watch the sunset. 

How to support Maui: 5 locally owned hotels to consider for a responsible visit

3. La Concha Beach – San Sebastian, Spain

With a long coastline comprising over 4,265 feet, La Concha Beach is a renowned jewel of the Basque Country. Located in the charming fishing town of San Sebastian, this picturesque bay is framed by rolling hills and an uninhabited island people can also visit. A charming promenade with restaurants and amusement offers guests a place to explore off-sand.

2. Spiaggia dei Conigli – Lampedusa, Italy

There’s much to enjoy at Spiaggia dei Conigli – or Rabbit Beach, a nod to the native rabbits that inhabit the area – besides the clear waters and white granite cliffs. Located on the island of Lampedusa off the Sicilian coast, the beach is only accessible by boat or a 15-minute trek by foot, but it’s well worth it. During the summer, it becomes one of the few places in the country where loggerhead sea turtles lay their eggs.

1. Praia da Falésia – Olhos de Agua, Portugal

Vast golden sands and bright blue water help make Praia da Falésia the most beautiful beach in the world, which ranked sixth place last year. With dramatic ombre cliffs of reds and oranges, this beach immerses its visitors in pristine natural beauty. According to Tripadvisor reviews, many visitors to the sprawling beach relished how uncrowded it felt.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

top countries to visit florida

7 Best Places to Go Glamping in Florida — From Tiny Cabins to Floating Houseboats

From houseboat rentals to tree houses, these are the best glamping spots in Florida.

Thanks to Florida’s year-round warm weather and wide range of alternative accommodations that include tree houses, houseboats, and tiny homes, the state is a dream destination for glamping. In fact, glamping has become so popular that the state has added glampsites to 10 state parks, including three tents at Manatee Springs State Park, one of the best places in Florida for manatee sightings. But beyond the state park offerings, which tend to be a tad less glamorous, the state is home to a selection of private glamping resorts.

Here are 7 of the top places to go glamping in Florida.

Coldwater Gardens, Milton

Coldwater Gardens is an eco-resort north of Pensacola with 385 acres of gardens, orchards, and wetlands set along a creek. Each piece of planted flora is selected to support local and migratory butterflies, so it's truly a nature lover's paradise. Fruits and vegetables are grown on-site, and there’s a bee apiary and chicken coop.

For lodging, Coldwater has it all, from luxe climate-controlled cabins, cabanas, and tiny houses to stilted, above-ground canopy cottages and a modern tree house. An above-ground stargazer platform for tent campers rounds out the offerings. 

Live Oak Landing, Freeport

Live Oak Landing is the ultimate Gulf Coast getaway. It’s set on a creek, just a short drive from a renowned string of Emerald Coast beaches. There’s an outdoor pool, a playground, and boat rentals for visitors who want to get out on the water. While technically an RV resort, Live Oak Landing has over 30 glamping cottages, most of which are set right on the water. Each cottage is fully furnished with a kitchen (or kitchenette in the smaller units), linens, and an outdoor fire ring. The one-bedroom cottages also have a private bathroom plus a washer and dryer. 

Related: 20 Best Beaches in Florida

Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, River Ranch

At first glance, the Westgate River Ranch looks like something you’d find in Wyoming, but this proud Florida dude ranch promises a “not-so-touristy adventure experience” with safari tents set beneath an oak tree canopy, cottages and cabins, and a lineup of covered wagons. 

The popular glamping property is set on one of the few untouched pieces of Florida wilderness. It boasts endless outdoor fun — including a ropes course, a zip line, and a rock climbing wall. A mechanical bull, horseback riding, and a petting farm bring a taste of the West — complemented by a weekly rodeo with bull riding, calf roping, and barrel racing in a 1,200-seat arena.

Island Oaks RV Resort, Glen St. Mary

It’s all about the water at Island Oaks RV Resort in Glen St. Mary. There are plenty of lakes, ponds, and pools for cooling off, as well as mini golf, sports courts, and a fitness center. As its name suggests, there are many RV sites at this resort, but glampers will want to turn their attention to the tiny house rentals, which are clean and modern with covered terraces, outdoor picnic tables, and fire rings.

It’s worth noting that Island Oaks was one of the top trending private campgrounds in a 2023 report by Campspot , a booking engine for glampsites.

The Crystalmarine Houseboat Suite, Key West

Spend a night out at sea in what is arguably the most romantic suite in all of Florida. This houseboat is anchored around five minutes from shore, providing complete privacy. And while you may be sleeping on a boat, luxury abounds in The Crystalmarine Suite . The main room has floor-to-ceiling windows providing endless ocean views, and the glampspot has a kitchenette and a full en-suite bath with a rainfall shower. There’s a sandbar and a tiny island nearby, and a kayak, hammocks, and snorkel gear are provided.

Related: T+L's Guide to the Florida Keys

Blue Ocean Yacht Charters, Key West 

Boat camping isn't the most obvious form of glamping, but it’s a must-try in Florida, the land of clear water and sandy shores. Pretend, even just for a night, that you live aboard a yacht that’s anchored in the Caribbean. The folks at Blue Ocean Yacht Charters rent their boats out overnight, so you can “camp” on the water. The views — both of the night sky above and the surrounding sea — are impossible to replicate on land. 

Treehouse Cabin Retreat, Old Town

This tiny property has just two offerings — a tree house and a cabin — yet it is a favorite on the Hipcamp booking site with a 98 percent approval rating from past guests. The property is located a few minutes from the Suwannee River with freshwater springs that are perfect for swimming and paddling. The property boasts an outdoor shower, a campfire ring, and a hammock that’s positioned for stargazing.

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Read the original article on Travel & Leisure .

Courtesy of Airbnb

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This Florida highway is one of the best places to spot gators

‘alligator alley,’ stretch of i-75, considered best place to see gators.

Anthony Talcott , Digital Journalist

While the Florida Panther is considered the state’s official animal , the alligator can easily be seen as the unofficial pick.

With over 1 million alligators estimated to live in Florida, the animal is a huge draw for many, with an entire theme park being created to showcase their scaly features.

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However, one highway in Florida is considered to be among the best places to spot alligators: a stretch of Interstate 75 dubbed “Alligator Alley.”

This toll road — also known as Everglades Parkway — stretches around 80 miles through the Florida Everglades, and it got its moniker thanks to the abundance of neighboring marshes where the eponymous alligators live.

The road is surrounded by wildlife management areas and preserves, where alligators and other Florida wildlife inhabit, making it a great place to spot these creatures.

More specifically, its name stems from the American Automobile Association, which originally believed that the route would be unpopular with drivers, better served as an “alley for alligators,” according to the Florida Weekly .

The road initially opened to drivers in 1968 to link the Atlantic and Gulf coasts in South Florida, though the name was made official during a meeting by the Collier County Commission a couple of years earlier.

“Alley’s a good name,” said then-Commissioner A.C. Hancock. “It’ll attract tourists.”

Despite the muddy terrain and multitude of gators, driving through Alligator Alley is relatively safe thanks to the overpasses and high fences along the road.

Aside from alligators, you can find other types of wildlife native to swamplands, such as turtles, herons and pythons. Even Florida panthers are known to roam the area, as indicated by the number of wildlife crossing signs posted along the roadway.

For a regular 2-axle vehicle, the Sunpass toll rate is approximately $3.18. Meanwhile, the cash rate is $3.75.

A-Z Animals recommends that drivers follow these tips to ensure they get through their trip with minimal hassle:

  • Make sure to account for rest stops : There are only three rest areas and a service plaza along Alligator Alley, so be sure to stop when you need to. You don’t want to run out of gas or get caught needing to use the restroom at an inopportune time!
  • Be safe on the highway : Don’t tailgate other drivers, and follow the posted speed limit. You don’t want to crash and be stranded on a road named “Alligator Alley,” after all.
  • Prepare before you make the drive : Fully charge your cell phone and be sure to have roadside assistance on hand in case of an emergency. While the road is considered safe, it’s still not the kind of place you want to be trapped on late at night.
  • Avoid alligators at all costs : If you see a gator on the road, do not get out of your car. Alligators should never be approached or fed. Instead, keep a safe distance from any alligators you come across.
  • Is an alligator in your path? Again, don’t mess with it. Drive around if possible, or else wait until the alligator crosses the road before continuing on. Harassing alligators in Florida comes with criminal penalties.

Check out the Florida Foodie podcast. You can find every episode in the media player below:

Copyright 2023 by WKMG ClickOrlando - All rights reserved.

About the Author:

Anthony talcott.

Anthony, a graduate of the University of Florida, joined ClickOrlando.com in April 2022.

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When are the best days to go to Disney World? Look toward October, one analysis says

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Walt Disney World is a joyous celebration of fun, happiness and childike wonder. It's the Happiest Place on Earth.

And, as every Disney fan knows, it's also one of the most crowded. Over 58 million people pass through those gates every year and they all seem to be standing in front of you at the Haunted Mansion .

Every day is likely to be thronged, but there are some times when it's easier to move around than others. MagicGuides , a Disney travel service, analyzed park attendance data, ride lines , crowd levels and temperatures to find the best days over the next year to visit Disney World, as well as Disney's other three Central Florida theme parks: Epcot, Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios. Plan your vacations accordingly.

Please note: These are predictions based on past data and should be seen only as suggested guides. Events and weather both change fast in Florida.

Destination D23 highlights: Disney World, Disneyland are changing. Here's what to know

When is Disney World the least crowded?

Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays tend to be slightly less crowded year-round. July and August can sometimes be good times, MagicGuides said, if you can handle the heat, but overall the summer is full of vacationing Disney fans. You also want to generally avoid times when kids are out of school. The times most likely to be less crowded for the Disney parks in Orlando are:

  • January 2nd until just before Presidents’ Day week (the third Monday in February)
  • The month or so after Labor Day
  • The week following Thanksgiving weekend until the week before Christmas

Disney for the holidays: Disney introducing jolly new event this holiday season amid returning fan favorites

When is Disney World the most crowded?

Days with a y in them? "Unsurprisingly, weekends are typically more crowded than weekdays," the release from MagicGuides said, "and when it comes to weekdays, Mondays and Fridays tend to be slightly more crowded than Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays." Persistent rumors about Disney lowering its drinking age may contribute to teenage attendance.

The times with the highest attendance rates are:

  • Presidents’ Day week (the third week in February)
  • Spring Break period, from mid-March through to late April
  • Memorial Day weekend
  • Summer (mid-June through Labor Day)
  • Thanksgiving week
  • Christmas week, till January 1st

If you can't get in, you can still have fun outside. Here are ten things to do at Disney World outside the parks , and ten iconic Disney World snacks you can buy in the outside world. You can even get an official Disney license plate .

When are the best days to go to Disney World?

Based on MagicGuide's analysis, the best days to visit the Disney World Magic Kingdom are:

  • Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023
  • Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2023
  • Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2023

If you're 14 or over, though, skip the costume. Disney doesn't allow them to avoid confusion, with an exception for Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party .

When are the best days to go to Epcot?

Based on MagicGuide's analysis, the best days to visit Epcot are:

  • Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023
  • Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023
  • Thursday, Nov. 2, 2023

When are the best days to go to Hollywood Studios?

Based on MagicGuide's analysis, the best days to visit Hollywood Studios are:

When are the best days to go to Animal Kingdom?

Based on MagicGuide's analysis, the best days to visit Disney's Animal Kingdom are:

  • Monday, Oct. 23, 2023
  • Friday, Oct. 27, 2023
  • Monday, Oct. 30, 2023
  • Friday, Nov. 3, 2023
  • Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2023
  • Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2023

Aerial view of Newburyport, Massachusetts.

  • 8 Most Charming River Towns In Massachusetts To Visit In 2024

Hospitable towns and cities were founded beside many bountiful rivers, and in the state of Massachusetts , there are a number of charming river towns that will create the warm and welcoming atmosphere New England is famous for. Go beyond the urban confines of Boston , Springfield, and Worcester and venture into the rural wonderlands of Massachusetts’ outdoors.

From historic riverside towns that have been marred by pre- and postcolonial battles long ago to villages celebrating the dreams and ideals of American independence, you will never get tired as you swim down the most charming river towns in Massachusetts worth visiting this 2024. Be the first to uncover the splendid secrets the state of firsts has to cherish.

Aerial view of Hudson, Massachusetts

Lounging on the banks of the Assabet River is the serene town of Hudson . Approximately 17 miles from Worcester, Hudson contains several pristine natural and cultural attractions that encapsulate the eras endured by Massachusetts. The American Heritage Museum informs travelers of Hudson’s tumultuous and resplendent past, while the neighboring Marlborough-Sudbury State Forest beckons the most adventurous and daring of travelers to hikes and trails in the Massachusetts wilderness. The Danforth Falls Conservation Area and the Assabet River Rail Trail also create awesome opportunities for exploration and engagement.

Meanwhile, the Felton-Smith Historic Site sheds light on Hudson’s contributions to the American Revolutionary War and the American Civil War , and the Assabet Woolen Mill and the Hudson Armory now stand as architectural relics of a bygone period along the Assabet River.

Northampton

 Buildings in downtown Northampton, Massachusetts

For those seeking utopian relaxation, then follow the Connecticut River all the way to Northampton . Affectionately called “Paradise City,” Northampton is a convenient 25-minute getaway from Springfield and is backgrounded by Mount Holyoke and Mount Tom Rogers. It was in the middle of this river that King Philip’s War in 1675-1676 and Queen Anne’s War in 1702-1713 commenced in Northampton. Furthermore, Northampton was where Sojourner Truth , David Ruggles, and other practitioners of the abolitionist movement went into hiding, which the David Ruggles Center helpfully explains.

As for the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Library and Museum, you can start to appreciate all about President Calvin Coolidge and his improvements in the US. Discover more of a town originally called Nonotuck ( Algonquian meaning “middle of the river”), and occupy your moments at the Hotel Northampton.

Main Street, Concord.

Concord was called Nashawtuc by the Nipmuc Native Americans, meaning “between the rivers.” And quite literally, between the Concord, Assabet, and Sudbury rivers, the first battle of the American Revolutionary War commenced in 1775. On your journey through Concord, let the minuteman statue at Concord’s Old North Bridge welcome you inside. These statues were fashioned by Daniel Chester French, the same artist who sculpted Abraham Lincoln at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C .

Concord continues to display its American patriotism with the deferential maintenance of Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, where American Transcendentalists like Louisa May Alcott, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Henry David Thoreau, and Ralph Waldo Emerson are buried. Only 20 miles from Boston, spend your inquisitive hours or days at Concord’s Colonial Inn, North Bridge Inn, and Residence Inn.

Amesbury, Massachusetts.

Situated between the Powwow and Merrimack Rivers, Amesbury is a quiet town with an eerie past. Much like its neighbor, Salem (roughly 40 minutes away), many women in Amesbury in the 1600s were taken under unjust scrutiny for witchcraft and other devilries. Although there are no documented records or landmarks confirming who endured the prejudice of a witch trial , Amesbury was not as harrowing or dismal as Salem.

In spite of this sorrowful and reproachful legacy, Amesbury has become as beautiful and gorgeous as abolitionist poet John Greenleaf Whittier portrayed in his literary pieces. The Amesbury Carriage Museum showcases the town’s relevance in manufacturing carriages for those with elegant tastes, while Lowell's Boat Shop—the oldest continuously operating boat shop in the US—expresses Amesbury’s shipbuilding legacy.

Stockbridge

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Stockbridge is a riveting and rewarding town along the Housatonic River in the Berkshire Hills. Only 12 miles from Pittsfield, two American pioneers in culture and the arts were born in Stockbridge. There was Norman Rockwell, a famous artist-illustrator who spent 25 years of his life in Stockbridge. Much of his artworks and livelihood can be explored at the Norman Rockwell Museum. There is also Daniel Chester French, the renowned sculptor of the Abraham Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C., whose sculpting studio can be found in Chesterwood.

Meanwhile, the Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum provide further contexts of Stockbridge’s compelling episodes of the past, in addition to the Historic New England’s Merwin House and Naumkeag preserving the remnants of these bygone times. During your stay at the Red Lion Inn, see more of what Stockbridge has to offer along the Housatonic River.

Newburyport

Newburyport at the mouth of the Merrimack River in Massachusetts

At the mouth of Merrimack River, which flows endlessly into the Atlantic Ocean , Newburyport entices travelers with a handful of cultural and natural amenities. The barrier island of Plum Island engages people in numerous beachside enjoyments, while the historic Plum Island Lighthouse and Newburyport Harbor Light showcase the town’s legacy with the waves and tides. Elsewhere, the Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm thrusts travelers back to the New England agricultural lifestyle of the 1690s. The Topsfield Fair, America’s oldest country fair since 1818 and an annual event one ought not to miss, runs from September 29 through October 9.

Similarly, the Yankee Homecoming event—founded by local artist Jack Frost to establish camaraderie between New England communities—commences from July 27 to August 4 with special programs appealing to residents and tourists alike. Only about 20 minutes from Ipswich, seek your comforts at the Compass Rose Inn, Clark Courier Inn, or Garrison Inn Boutique Hotel.

Great Neck, Ipswich, Massachusetts, at sunset

Midway between Newburyport and Boston, the serene town of Ipswich is fed by the Ipswich River. Founded in 1633 as Agawam, the town was a producer of lace in defiance against the British Empire . The Rebellion Tablet further explores Ipswich’s rebellious attitude as it honors the late Reverand John Wise’s public denunciation against British taxation in 1687. As a haven for the Willowdale State Forest and Sandy Point State Reservation, there are a plethora of arboreal and bucolic activities for you to cherish in Ipswich’s rural countryside.

On Crane Beach, soak in the bracing, briny breeze of the Atlantic Ocean in your opulent strolls. At the Great House atop Castle Hill, relive the courteous and cultured lifestyle of the 17 th century within the polished Crane Estate. And in the Great Marshes, respect the diverse and vibrant riverside wildlife that call Ipswich their home.

Montague Bookmill, Montague, Massachusetts.

Approximately 18 miles north of Northampton and bounded by the Connecticut River and the much smaller Sawmill River, Montague welcomes travelers with underrated surprises and intrigue. As a village established by industrious German immigrants in 1782, Montague was made famous for being the producer of the Montague Rod and Reel, a world-famous split bamboo fishing rod. Travelers can tour the site of Peskeompskut, a vital Native American settlement besieged in 1676 during King Philip’s War.

You can also venture into the Montague State Forest and Montague Wildlife Management Area, where the beauty of Massachusetts’ outdoors is best expressed. Witness the hydroelectric powers of Turners Falls as it harnesses the might of the Connecticut River. When summer blooms, Montague hosts the Mutton & Mead Medieval Festival, a jubilant recreational program that brings knightly jousts and Robin Hood-style merriment of England into American soil.

Where would civilization be without streams and rivers feeding the soil and nourishing the land? In Massachusetts, in particular, the many rivers and the most charming river towns in the state all contribute to the ideals of American independence, which first started when the Revolutionary War and the Civil War were instigated. In towns like Concord and Northampton, which experienced the fiercest battles, one can discover culture and history on the banks of unchanging rivers. Meanwhile, in places like Montague, Ipswich, Stockbridge, and more, one can expect a cornucopia of local treasures and souvenirs for those seeking the New England ambiance and amenities. But most of all, these river towns welcome everyone far and wide to a number of festivities and activities one should visit in the year 2024. Find out for yourself why so many have fallen in love with Massachusetts.

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Cityscape of Panama City Beach, Florida, along Front Beach Road at dusk.

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COMMENTS

  1. Best Places to Visit in Florida in 2024

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    The main draw, however, has to be the luxurious beaches nearby. Siesta Key, rated the #1 beach in the nation, is famous for its cool quartz sand. Factor in delicious local eateries, and it's clear why Sarasota is a must-visit Florida destination. Credit: Looking down the coast on Pensacola Beach by bigstock.com.

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  5. 26 Most Beautiful Places in Florida, According to Locals

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