There’s more to this panhandle US state than just Walt Disney’s Magic Kingdom. An airboat experience in the Everglades showcases one of the world’s largest wetlands, the powdery sand beaches on the Gulf of Mexico offer the perfect getaway, and a walking tour of Miami’s vibrant food scene lets travelers in on some of the eclectic elements that make up Florida’s spirit. From Kennedy Space Center to the string of islands that make up the Florida Keys to, yes, Orlando’s ubiquitous theme parks, the Sunshine State mixes outdoor adventure, diverse culture, and family fun to form an all-in-one destination that delights all ages.
The Sunshine State is—you guessed it—quite sunny year-round. Summer is undoubtedly the most popular time to visit, though snowbirds and locals love the cool(er) weather winter brings. The shoulder seasons are ideal for most visitors. Spring brings outdoor fun like SunFest in the south and the Interstate Mullet Toss in the Panhandle. Fall is just as wonderful (hurricanes permitting), as manatees start arriving in Silver Springs State Park and international boat shows fill the waters.
No doubt about it: You need a car to get around Florida. Interstates 4, 10, 75, and 95 act as arteries connecting cities like Miami to St. Augustine, Tampa to Orlando, Naples to Fort Lauderdale, and Pensacola to Jacksonville. Intercity travel varies; most cities have extensive bus routes and ridesharing is always an option. With flat roads and a beach never more than 60 miles away, you’ll be thankful for the flexibility—and air conditioning—a rental car provides.
Florida’s theme parks and beaches are the major draw, but this state is so much more than its main attractions. Venture into the interior of the Panhandle and get lost in natural bliss in places like the Apalachicola National Forest and Winter Haven Chain of Lakes. Plan your itinerary with history in mind, too. Two of the country’s first incorporated African-American cities were founded in what’s now Sanford and Eatonville, and they’ve got the Southern and soul food to prove it.
Local Currency US Dollar ($) | Time Zone EST (UTC -5) | Country Code +1 | Language(s) English | Attractions 244 | Tours 4,087 | Reviews 256,414 |
Florida is known for its spectacular beaches, sunny weather, diverse cities, and world-renowned tourist attractions. Florida’s Gulf Coast is known for its serene sunsets while the Atlantic Coast is known for surfing and deepwater fishing. Central Florida is known for theme parks while South Florida is known for ritzy nightlife.
...MoreThree things Florida is famous for include Walt Disney World® Resort, the Kennedy Space Center, and Miami’s South Beach. Disney World encompasses four separate theme parks and two water parks. Kennedy Space Center is NASA’s hub for rocket launches while South Beach offers lavish dining, entertainment, and leisure activities.
...MoreSome things you can only do in Florida include visiting Walt Disney World® Resort, Kennedy Space Center, and the nation’s oldest continuously-occupied European-settled city, St. Augustine. Florida is also the only state in which you can drive from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean in under two hours.
...MoreYour first trip to Florida should include a visit to one of the Gulf Coast beaches. Clearwater Beach, near Tampa, is regarded as one of the best beaches in the country. Other notable Gulf beaches include those found in Destin, Sanibel Island, Siesta Key, and St. George Island.
...MoreOne of the prettiest spots in Florida is Captiva Island. Located west of Cape Coral and adjacent to Sanibel Island, this island in the Gulf of Mexico is a tranquil place with a laid-back vibe. Scenic views, miles of shoreline, and a variety of leisurely activities make Captiva Island memorable.
...MoreYou should spend anywhere from a weekend to two weeks in Florida, depending on your desired experiences. Orlando’s theme parks alone warrant a full week, while cities like Miami and Tampa can be explored intimately within a weekend. You will also want to plan extra travel days if driving across the state.
...More
