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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Fort Walton Beach

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Delray Beach

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The 28 best things to do in Florida

Explore theme parks and scenic swamplands, and find some big city energy with our list of the best things to do in Florida

Florida is known for its abundance of theme parks and sandy shorelines. And while the Sunshine State is proud of these things—who wouldn’t be—the  other best things to do in Florida are worthy of their moment in the sun, too. The state has some of the best art museums in the country, over 1,000 golf courses (some of which are used by the PGA), and outdoor adventures galore in Florida's national parks .  As you cruise up and down the coast, you’ll find an endless supply of scenic places to get out and stretch your legs while you enjoy some of the best restaurants in the state , local beaches, and hidden gem attractions. And, as you make your way throughout Florida, you won’t miss the state’s range of personalities; north of Orlando , there’s a sense of southern hospitality that’s hard to miss in cities like Jacksonville , while south of Orlando, a wider range of cultures highlight the state’s diverse population in cities like Miami (and that’s not even including Key West , a place with a culture of its own). Already visited the state’s bucket list beaches ? You haven't even seen the half of it. Here are the best things to do in Florida.

RECOMMENDED: The best Airbnbs in Florida RECOMMENDED: The best Florida hotels

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Best things to do in Florida, ranked

1.  Magic Kingdom Park

Walt Disney World is one of the most visited places on earth, and no trip to Florida is complete without experiencing Magic Kingdom Park. Home to a variety of attractions that have become theme park icons (like the Haunted Mansion, The Jungle Cruise, and Space Mountain) the park is buzzing with excitement this year with the start of the 100th Anniversary of the Walt Disney Company, the opening of TRON Lightcycle / Run, and the complete overhaul of Splash Mountain into Tiana's Bayou Adventure. 

2.  St. Augustine Ghost Tours

St. Augustine is the oldest city in the nation—considering its age, it’s no surprise that it's also one of the  most haunted places in Florida . What’s that mean? Well, ghost tours , of course. Hop on board a trolly in the early evening and get ready to travel past some of the spookiest places in the city like the St. Augustine Lighthouse, cemeteries from the 1800s, and an old schoolhouse.

3.  EPCOT

If you’ve already seen EPCOT, look again: EPCOT is in the midst of a multi-year transformation that will bring more Disney characters into the park. This started with the newest attraction, in the France pavilion, called Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure. There’s also a new restaurant, Space 220, which you might call out of this world (it’s designed to make guests feel like they’re dining 220 miles above the earth in a space station). Since Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind opened in 2022, the park has been abuzz with excitement. That excitement will continue this year as a new fireworks show debuts and a Moana -inspired attraction comes to life at the park. 

4.  Disney's Hollywood Studios

At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you can live out your Star Wars dreams by piloting the Millennium Falcon at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, or you can take a ride on Slinky Dog’s back in Toy Story Land. You can even drop 13 stories in an elevator on the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, if you’re so inclined. For a more casual afternoon, consider grabbing a margarita flight at The Hollywood Brown Derby and checking out a live reproduction of the classic Disney animated film Beauty and the Beast , which is just down the street from the Brown Derby.

5.  Everglades Airboat Tours

The Florida Everglades is a unique environment where you can see a plethora of native wildlife like panthers, alligators, and snakes. One way to really explore the Everglades is to hop on an airboat ride and travel through the swamps with an expert captain. There aren’t many other places in the United States where you can even take an airboat ride, which makes this a particularly unique Florida activity—the boats go fast, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for exciting wildlife.

6.  Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Round out your Walt Disney World adventure at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. While most people think this park is just a zoo, that’s only half the story—you can also take a ride through an authentic African safari, or another ride that summits “Mount Everest” on a rollercoaster. Better yet, get a flashback to the age of dinosaurs on a time rover. While at the park you can also learn about conservation and what Disney is doing to help rehabilitate species and their natural environment.

7.  Jax Ale Trail

The city of  Jacksonville is a hub for craft breweries, and one way to experience the best of them is the Jax Ale Trail. The self-guided trail will take you to all corners of the city as you taste award-winning beer and even a few tasty bites of food at local hot spots. Each of the breweries has a small booklet that you can take on your journey —at each participating brewery, you'll get a new stamp, and when the booklet is full you can turn it in with Visit Jacksonville for a prize.

8.  Universal Studios Florida

Universal Studios Florida is home to Diagon Alley, part of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Here, you'll find Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts , a story coaster that allows riders to get face-to-face with villains from the Harry Potter franchise and a large, fire-breathing dragon. Universal Studios Florida is also where you’ll find classic Universal attractions like E.T. Adventure, Men in Black: Alien Attack, and Revenge of the Mummy.

9.  Kennedy Space Center

Are you a space fanatic? Spend the day at NASA and Kennedy Space Center. The complex takes visitors past some of the launchpads where space shuttles are lifted off into space. You can also get up close to things like the Space Shuttle Atlantis, see some modern rockets, and learn about NASA’s next big mission to explore Mars.

10.  Universal’s Islands of Adventure

Adults and those traveling with kids of all ages will enjoy Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park. Here you can explore several themed lands based on popular movies and series like Jurassic Park, Marvel, Dr. Seuss, and of course, even more Harry Potter. The most recent attraction to open at Islands of Adventure is Jurassic World Velocicoaster, which whisks riders on a whirlwind of twists, turns, and inversions as they try to escape velociraptors.

11.  SeaWorld Orlando

If you’re looking for a day filled with adventure and aquatic animals, head to SeaWorld Orlando. The exciting theme park has plenty of thrilling roller coasters along with ample opportunities for adorable animal encounters. While at the park, explore animal exhibits with penguins, sea lions, and dolphins. The best part about SeaWorld compared to the other Orlando theme parks is that you really just need one day to do everything, which allows you to do more of the “local” activities in the city.

12.  Discovery Cove

Right next door to SeaWorld Orlando, Discovery Cove is an all-inclusive park that allows you to enjoy sunny Florida days with plenty of food, drinks, and animal encounters. The highlight of a day at Discovery Cove is swimming with dolphins and learning about their natural behaviors from the expert trainers that work at the park. After taking a swim with the magnificent creatures, grab a float and take a trip (or two) around a lazy river, or go snorkeling with giant rays.

13.  Mallory Square, Key West

Key West is  the place  defined to sit back and relax. There are ample spaces to do this in Key West, but none are more famous than Mallory Square. Each night, the square fills with tourists and locals who are ready to celebrate the evening sunset with a cold drink in hand. These sunset parties are the perfect time for people to take in the beauty of nature as the sun goes down over the glittering waters of the Florida Keys—before they head to the iconic beach bars in hopes of living out their Jimmy Buffett dreams.

14.  The Dali Museum

Are you an art lover heading to the Sunshine State? Make sure you stop at The Dalí museum in Tampa . The institution is home to one of the largest collections of Salvador Dalí collections in the world. Throughout the year, the museum also puts on special exhibits and activities, while the stunning architecture—complete with winding staircases and mirrored exterior glass—makes it worth a visit all on its own.

15.  The Florida Aquarium

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If you’re traveling to Tampa and looking for something the entire family can do together, look no further than The Florida Aquarium. Here, adults and kids can learn about sea life and ocean conservation, and they’ll also have the opportunity to get up close to marine life. One of our favorite exhibits is Stingray Beach, where visitors can watch and touch beautiful rays as they glide in the water—roll up your sleeves, put your hands into the tank, and feel their velvet soft wingtips.

16.  Wynwood Art District

One of Miami’s hippest neighborhoods, Wynwood , is certainly one of Florida’s brightest hubs for art and culture. The district is known for its colorful murals that grace the outside of large buildings, most often known as the Wynwood Walls. The outdoor museum showcases work from some of the world’s most prolific street artists. Around the area, you’ll also find smaller art galleries, craft breweries, boutiques, bistros , and bars to enjoy after the sun goes down.

17.  Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

In the heart of Delray Beach, Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is a stunning oasis where you can learn about Japanese culture while sitting in a tranquil, relaxing space. Before heading out to the gardens, visit the museum and immerse yourself in the culture of Japan; the museum has an abundance of Japanese artifacts and plays host to a variety of exhibitions each year. Next, step out to the gardens where you can soak in the sounds of rippling waters, singing birds, and nature.

18.  LEGOLAND Florida

If you’re traveling with smaller kids, a stop at LEGOLAND Florida is hard to skip. The adorable theme park features plenty of attractions that kids of all ages can ride, not to mention a fun water park for a break from the Florida heat. And, coming soon to LEGOLAND, you’ll find a brand-new Peppa Pig Theme Park that’s based on the popular kid’s TV show Peppa Pig. After a day riding attractions and spotting favorite LEGO characters, relax at one of the three LEGOLAND Florida resorts—they’re all family-friendly and LEGO-themed (of course).

19.  Crystal River Manatee Swim

Manatees, a native Florida species (you might know them as sea cows or dugongs), are large creatures that often migrate to warmer Florida springs in the cooler months—it’s a great time to hop in the water, or on a paddleboard, to get a closer view. At Crystal River, you can learn about the gentle giants before swimming alongside them on a guided excursion.

20.  Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

One theme park that often gets left out of the conversation is Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. The thrilling theme park is home to some of the fastest roller coasters in the state. The park also goes all out for the holidays, with themed events for Halloween and Christmas. Opening early next year is a brand-new hybrid coaster, Iron Gwazi, which will be the tallest, fastest, and steepest of its kind in the world.

21.  Dry Tortugas National Park

Located in Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is a popular place for locals and tourists to enjoy a day in the sun. The park is one of the best snorkeling and diving locations in the world, with crystal-clear waters that allow you to see schools of fish and other marine life up close. The only way to get to the national park is by boat, but it’s a worthy afternoon trip if you’re already in Key West.

22.  Hemingway Home and Museum

Key West has plenty of historic sites, but none are more famous than the Hemingway Home and Museum. Here, you’ll see how the prolific author and writer Ernest Hemingway lived and worked on a daily basis. As you tour the house you’ll see some of Hemingway’s personal objects that have been preserved, and on the grounds of the home you might encounter some of the infamous five-toed cats that are direct descendants of the ones that belonged to Hemingway himself.

23.  Enjoy an NFL Game

Football fans can rally for one of three NFL teams that call Florida home: the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and the Miami Dolphins. Part of the fun of traveling to Florida for an NFL game is the game-day experience; the warmer weather makes it perfect for tailgating before a game, and the stadiums here are top-notch (one even has pools, and another has a full-size pirate ship inside). Oh, and it doesn’t hurt that Florida has some of the top players in the NFL, like first-round draft pick Trevor Lawrence and NFL MVP Tom Brady.

24.  Head to a college football game

In Florida, football doesn’t stop with the NFL. There’s nothing Florida does better than Saturday afternoon college football games. All around the state, you’ll see fans donning their team colors and hosting lavish parties with friends and family to watch the game—sure, you might even hear them screaming out their team's rally cry in the grocery store when they see another fan. A few of the most talked-about teams in the state are the Florida Gators, Florida State Seminoles, and Miami Hurricanes. But no matter who you choose to cheer for, you’re guaranteed a good time.

25.  Lion Country Safari

Lion Country Safari is a drive-thru safari park where you get to stay in your car and drive by animals like giraffes and zebras. The open habitats allow the animals to roam free, and many of them are curious about some of the cars that drive by, so they can get very close. If you really want to get up close to the animals there are opportunities to feed giraffes and lorikeets for a nominal fee at set times throughout the day. 

26.  The Historic District of St. Augustine

When it comes to history, no city in the United States has more than St. Augustine. The charming downtown streets of the historic district feature old school buildings, a Spanish village and more. Many of the older buildings have been transformed into shops and restaurants, which are also fun to pop into on warm summer days. Across the street from the historic district is the Castillo de San Marcos, which is a Spanish fort. Here, you can see reenactments of battles and walk through the fort to get a taste of what it was like to live in St. Augustine when it was first founded.

27.  The Ringling

Sarasota may be known for its beaches, but when the rain comes through, or it's just too hot, head to The Ringling. This museum is dedicated to preserving the arts and showing off the home of one of the famed Ringling Brothers. Today, the museum hosts a variety of exhibits and enrichment opportunities throughout the year. Those who are interested in a closer look at the museum and its pieces can book a guided gallery tour. And for history buffs, one of the "Collecting Recollections" talks from those who have connections to Ringling or Sarasota may be of interest. 

28.  South Beach

One of the most famous beaches in the United States is right here in Florida in Miami's South Beach neighborhood. Of course, visitors can soak up the sun on the sandy shore, but there's so much more to the area than the beach. Consider checking out The Bass art museum, strolling down Ocean Drive, or hopping on a double-decker bus tour to see more of the city. After a day of exploring there are dozens of restaurants to try and a vibrant nightlife scene to keep you dancing until morning. 

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20 Hidden Gem Attractions in Florida That Won't Be Too Crowded

Florida's hidden gems include a beer trail, a manatee sanctuary, and caverns.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Courtesy of Visit Florida

With stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and some of the world's most-visited theme parks , the Sunshine State is one of the most popular destinations in the U.S. When you think about Florida attractions, theme park resorts like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando likely come to mind, as well as other places like the Kennedy Space Center and South Beach in Miami .

If you've been to any of Florida's hot spots , you know just how busy they can be. Here, we've rounded up 20 hidden gem attractions to visit in Florida without the crowds. Get ready to see manatees and alligators in their natural habitats, hike along stunning nature trails, admire Florida's highest waterfall, visit beautiful caverns, and explore one of the country's least-visited national parks. You'll be surprised to see just how many incredible attractions are often overlooked by the average tourist.

1. Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park

Wolfgang Poelzer / Getty Images

About an hour north of Tampa, Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is home to one of the best natural springs in Florida and a great place to spot native flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for whooping cranes, endangered Florida panthers, black bears, bobcats, alligators, and red wolves within the park's 210 acres. You can learn about the magnificent manatees that live here year-round by catching an educational program at the Fish Bowl Underwater Observatory. Afterward, go for a stroll along the 1.1-mile elevated boardwalk trail, take a boat tour, or give birding a try on the 0.75-mile Pepper Creek Trail.

2. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

Sixteen acres of Japanese gardens are Delray Beach's best hidden gem. This beautiful and serene spot features a world-class bonsai collection, trails, ponds filled with koi, and picnic areas, so you can immerse yourself in nature. You can also learn all about Japanese culture through the clubs and workshops, which include lessons in Japanese ink painting, traditional Japanese music, and more.

3. Dry Tortugas National Park

One of the nation's least-visited national parks , Dry Tortugas National Park is well worth visiting if you're traveling to the Florida Keys. Although Dry Tortugas isn't a secret to locals or national park lovers, its remote location means you can explore Fort Jefferson, snorkel among the coral reefs, or dive to a shipwreck without the crowds you might find on the Sunshine State's other popular beaches. It is, after all, only accessible by boat or seaplane. 

4. Devil’s Den Spring

Located in Levy County, Devil's Den Spring is a prehistoric natural spring inside a cave that offers diving and snorkeling in crystal clear, 72-degree waters all year long. Fossils dating back to the Pleistocene Age were found at this incredible site, which got its name from early settlers who thought the steam emanating from the underground space looked like smoke rising from hell.

5. Florida Caverns State Park

Courtesy of Florida State Parks

Did you know that you can take a cave tour in Florida? At Florida Caverns State Park , you can see the stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, and draperies hiding below the surface in Jackson County in the Panhandle. The park also offers trails, swimming, and other activities.

6. Venetian Pool

This Coral Gables gem isn't your average public pool. The Venetian Pool was carved out of a coral rock quarry in the 1920s, and today, it's the largest freshwater pool in the United States (it's emptied and refilled each day). Swimmers can splash in waterfalls and grottos, while palm trees and porticos make this a scenic place to spend a day in the water.

7. Wacissa Springs County Park

Florida Fish and Wildlife / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0

With more than a dozen crystal-clear springs to choose from, this park is a dream for swimmers, snorkelers, and boaters. Wacissa Springs County Park is also an ideal place for wildlife viewing and fishing. If you want to spend some time soaking up the great outdoors, you can camp at the Goose Pasture Group Campground for up to 10 days.

8. Southwest Florida Ale Trail

Courtesy of Riptide Brewing Company

Oregon and Vermont receive a lot of praise as the country's best destinations for beer lovers, but did you know that there's a brewery trail in Florida? The Southwest Florida Ale Trail connects 18 breweries across four Florida counties, and even offers a passport you can have stamped at the participating locations to win prizes. Many of them are just a short distance from the coast, too, making for a great day of beach and beer.

9. Ravine Gardens State Park

Patrick Baehl de Lescure / Getty Images

This unique park in Palatka offers 60 acres of nature to explore. Suspension bridges cross the park's ravines over 30 feet above the ground, and there's a 1.8-mile loop that you can drive, bike, or walk to soak in the incredible views. If you're an avid hiker, you might prefer the moderately difficult trails that go down into the park's ravines.

10. Florida Historic Golf Trail

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Florida is known around the world as a major golf destination , and the Florida Historic Golf Trail combines great golf courses with sports history. The trail provides a mix of famous spots created by renowned golf course architects along with some lesser-known public links.

11. Rainbow Springs State Park

 CampPhoto / Getty Images 

Located about a 90-minute drive from Tampa or Orlando, Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon has been a popular spot for rest and relaxation for more than 10,000 years. Long before it was a modern-day tourist attraction, Florida's Indigenous Timucua people visited the springs, leaving stone tools, arrowheads, and other relics behind. Today, the 72-degree springs are a great place to take a dip. Expect a calm, beautiful oasis of clear water to swim, snorkel, paddle, and float in all year long. There's also a section dedicated to tubing. Plan your visit for a weekday if you can, as the park will close to the public once it reaches capacity, which it sometimes does during summer weekends and holidays, when Florida's temperatures soar.

12. Myakka River State Park

Stephanie Starr / EyeEm / Getty Images

Myakka River State Park , located on Florida's west coast about 30 minutes from Sarasota, is one of the best places to visit in the state if you want to view alligators in the wild. Check the website to see if boat tours are running (they sometimes stop if water levels are too low), as that's the best way to see them up close. Otherwise, there are tram tours to take you around the park, and you can view the river from a number of hiking trails and lookout points, such as The Birdwalk . Nearby, the Myakka Canopy Walkway , a 100-foot-long treetop trail that's 25 feet above the ground, and its 74-foot observation tower provide epic wetlands views from above.

13. Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge

On the opposite coast near Vero Beach, Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge is a nature lover's dream, with impressive mangrove and salt marsh habitats you can view from one of two three-mile loop trails or the 500-foot accessible observation tower. Opened in 1903 as the country's first-ever national wildlife refuge, the park is home to more than 130 species of birds, including brown pelicans, yellow-crowned night herons, great egrets, ospreys, snowy egrets, and bald eagles, among others. At 5,445 acres, there's more than enough space for everyone to enjoy the peace and quiet natural Florida provides.

14. Kampong National Tropical Botanical Garden

If you're seeking some respite from the South Florida crowds, head to The Kampong National Tropical Botanical Garden in Miami's Coconut Grove neighborhood. At this former estate of botanical enthusiast Dr. David Fairchild, you'll find Kampong Planting Heritage collections that hail from all over Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, Central and South America, and other tropical places. Experience the vivid colors and heady scents on a self-guided stroll, or take a guided tour if you want to learn more about the diverse plants in this beautiful place.

15. Dinosaur World

Dinosaur World

For a quirky and low-key alternative to the other big Florida theme parks, head to Dinosaur World in Plant City, just a 20-minute drive from downtown Tampa or an hour's drive along I-4 from Orlando. Dinosaur lovers of all ages will appreciate the life-size models of a triceratops, stegosaurus, and T. Rex, among other species. You'll also be able to dig for replicas of fossils, explore the park's many boardwalk nature trails, and check out the museum and its life-like animatronic dinosaurs. With two playgrounds, this dog-friendly attraction makes a great pit stop during a Florida road trip, or a fun day trip for the whole family.

16. Caladesi Island State Park

Just north of Clearwater Beach in the Tampa Bay Area, Caladesi Island State Park is accessible by private boat or via a 20-minute ferry ride from Honeymoon Island State Park . Whether you plan to rent kayaks and paddle through the mangrove forest, hike along the island's nature trails, have a seaside picnic, or relax with a good book on a blanket, you can expect to do so in solitude. Keep an eye out for ospreys, egrets, blue herons, bald eagles, dolphins, and manatees, which all call the area home.

17. Bean Point

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Bean Point , a remote beach area on the northern tip of Anna Maria Island, is known for its soft white sands and epic views of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge as much as its blissful lack of crowds. One reason for this is the presence of strong currents that make it unsafe for swimming — you won't find a parking lot or restroom facilities here either. But if you're looking for a peaceful spot to lounge near the waves or settle in with a picnic and a great beach read, this is it.

18. Blowing Rocks Preserve

Julie Culy / EyeEm / Getty Images

On the southeastern coast about 30 minutes from West Palm Beach, Blowing Rocks Preserve is one of the best places in Florida to see green, leatherback, and loggerhead sea turtles in their natural habitat. Since the 1980s, it's been where biologists and other scientists have come to assist baby sea turtles each year as they embark on their journey from the nest to the ocean. The preserve gets its name from the "blowing rocks," a natural phenomenon that occurs when the waves are especially rough (during storms or high tide, for example) and the water is pushed up through the limestone with such force it erupts like a geyser, sometimes as high as 50 feet!

19. Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge

PhotoviewPlus / Getty Images

Down by the Everglades on the Naples side, Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge is a wonderful place to get away from it all, especially if you're into birding, kayaking, wildlife photography, or fishing (only permitted at certain times of the year). The refuge is made up of vast mangrove forests, brackish marshlands, and tons of tiny islands, making it an ideal place to spot some of the many animals that live here, including more than 200 species of birds and fish, American alligators and crocodiles, Florida panthers, manatees, river otters, and bottle-nosed dolphins.

20. Falling Waters State Park

FallingWaters_08 / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0

Located on Florida's panhandle about an hour from Tallahassee, Falling Waters State Park is home to Florida’s highest waterfall. The Falling Waters Sink is actually a 100-foot-deep sinkhole with a 74-foot stream that drops into it, forming the waterfall. While the force of the waterfall varies with the amount of rainfall the area receives, it's still an impressive sight year-round, with the water seemingly disappearing into the cave system that lies beneath it. Use the boardwalk trails to reach the viewing points — the upper section is drier, while the lower one lets you have a closer look for the price of a light spray of water.

60 Things To Do & Places To Visit In Florida

By: Author Jerric Chong

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

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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 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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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 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

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

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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

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

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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 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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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 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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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

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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

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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

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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

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

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!

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

10 Top Tourist Attractions in Florida

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on March 4, 2024

Known as “The Sunshine State”, Florida is heavily focused on the tourist trade. The beaches are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Florida , along with some of the world’s best known theme parks, including Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld.

However some of the state’s best secrets are in secluded locations away from tourist areas and well worth seeing. Regardless of preference Florida has something to offer for any kind of traveler.

10. Amelia Island [SEE MAP]

Amelia Island is one of the southernmost of the Sea Islands, a chain of barrier islands that stretches from South Carolina to Florida. Amelia Island is home to Fernandina Beach, a charming shrimping village with 50 blocks of historic buildings, delightful eateries, and unique B&Bs and six golf courses.

9. Castillo de San Marcos [SEE MAP]

Located in the city of St. Augustine , The Castillo de San Marcos site is the oldest masonry fort in the United States. Given the fine state of the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument it’s difficult to believe that the fortress was built in the late 1600s.

Its longevity is due to its design: a diamond-shaped rampart at each corner maximized firepower, and 14 feet thick walls reduced its vulnerability to attack. St Augustine itself is a small jewel of a city known as the oldest European settlement in the United States, full of romantic ambiance and old world charm.

8. Universal Orlando Resort [SEE MAP]

Universal Orlando Resort is the top ranked challenger to Disney, as the largest of the Universal Studios Theme Parks. The resort consists of two theme parks: The original Universal Studios Florida and the second theme park, Islands of Adventure. Other attractions include a nightclub and restaurant complex, CityWalk, and three resort hotels.

The Universal Studios Florida opened in 1990 as a theme park that lets visitors “Ride the Movies.” The themes of Universal Studio’s are targeted at making guests feel like they are in a movie set with rides, shows, and attractions inspired by popular film, television, and music productions.

Universal’s Islands of Adventure is a theme park composed of 7 distinct “islands” that are themed to various forms of adventures. Visitors start off in the Port of Entry and make their way through the various islands.

7. Fort Lauderdale Beach [SEE MAP]

Located on the Atlantic coast, Fort Lauderdale is known as the “Venice of America” due to its expansive and intricate canal system. The city is most famous for its beaches and boats. Once a major spring break destination it is now a stylish and sophisticated city.

Central along the beach strip is Fort Lauderdale Beach, with its crisp, new, wavy-walked promenade separating the beach from the low-rise lodgings, restaurants, and beach shops.

6. Kennedy Space Center [SEE MAP]

Kennedy Space Center has been the launch site for every US human space flight since 1968 and currently operates as a launch site for unmanned rockets. It is also one of Florida’s tourist attractions and the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers museums, movies, a rocket garden and bus tours of important shuttle preparation and launch facilities.

Before a rocket launch, the Visitor Complex also sells “launch passes” but keep in mind that for safety reasons, the closest approach available is at least 4 miles away, and often much further.

5. Walt Disney World [SEE MAP]

Walt Disney World, located in Lake Buena Vista near Orlando , is the flagship of Disney’s worldwide theme park empire and the most popular tourist attraction in Florida. It is also by far, the world’s largest and most-visited theme park resort. The centerpieces of Walt Disney World are the four theme parks: The Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Some visitors describe it as a place of fun, magic and fantasy while others complain of crowds, artifice, and unrelenting tackiness.

Walt Disney World, located in Lake Buena Vista near Orlando, is the flagship of Disney’s worldwide theme park empire and the most popular tourist attraction in Florida. It is also by far, the world’s largest and most-visited theme park resort. The centerpieces of Walt Disney World are the four theme parks: The Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Magic Kingdom, is the first-built of the four theme parks at the Walt Disney World Resort. Opened in 1971, its layout and attractions are similar to Disneyland Park in Anaheim, California, and is dedicated to fairy tales and Disney characters. In 2012, the park hosted over 17 million visitors, making it the most visited theme park in the world.

Epcot is more than twice the size of the Magic Kingdom park. It is dedicated to the celebration of human achievement, namely technological innovation and international culture, and is often referred to as a “Permanent World’s Fair.” Disney’s Hollywood Studios is dedicated to show business, drawing inspiration from the heyday of Hollywood in the 1930s and 1940s.

4. Key West [SEE MAP]

Key West is known as the southernmost city in the continental United States and is located closer to Havana than to Miami. For many years, Key West was the largest town in Florida, and it grew prosperous from the valuables of shipwrecks. Improved navigation led to fewer shipwrecks, and Key West went into a decline in the late 19th century.

Although Key West today has been heavily restored and revitalized for the one million tourists that visit the island each year, the town has retained some of its sense of individualism and isolation, somewhat detached from the rest of Florida. Tourist attractions on Key West include Ernest Hemingway’s former home, the Southernmost Point, the lighthouse and several drinking establishments.

3. Everglades [SEE MAP]

To the uninitiated, the Everglades might appear as a big swamp but it is actually a vast, shallow, slow moving river of grass that extends from Lake Okeechobee to Florida Bay. During the dry season it dries up except for the deeper places.

It is an incredibly unique ecosystem, a subtropical wilderness that supports creatures such as alligators, bottlenose dolphins, manatees and bald eagles. And amid the mangroves, cypress, hardwood hammocks and miles of grass, there are endless opportunities in the everglades for hiking, bicycling, canoing, kayaking, boating, camping and fishing.

2. South Beach [SEE MAP]

Before Miami Vice, South Beach was a place where crime kept residents indoors at night and hotels stood mostly vacant. In the late 1980s helped by the TV show’s popularity a renaissance began in South Beach, with an influx of fashion industry professionals moving into the area.

Today South Beach is the most popular and richest area of Miami Beach and one of the top tourist attractions in Florida. The area is known for its hip clubs and wild nightlife as well as its famous art deco design.

See also: Where to Stay in Miami

1. Overseas Highway [SEE MAP]

The Overseas Highway, also known as U.S. Highway 1, connects the Florida Keys with the mainland. It stretches 127.5 miles (205.2 km) into the Gulf of Mexico, from Key Largo , Islamadora, Marathon, Lower Keys and finally to Key West , the most distant and most famous island. Much of the highway uses a route that was originally a railroad, originally built by the Overseas Railroad that was finished in 1912, but was pretty much destroyed by a major hurricane in 1935.

The present highway opened in 1938, with one bridge that is almost seven miles long. The Seven Mile Bridge has been featured in films such as True Lies, 2 Fast 2 Furious, and Mission Impossible III.

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Florida!

36 Things To Do In Florida In 2023: FL Bucket List

August 26, 2023 //  by  Florida Trippers

Looking for some of the best things to do in Florida? I’ve got you covered!

Florida is full of adventure and unique places. From theme parks to sunken gardens, our famous beaches , historical cities, and hole-in-the-wall surprises, this state is great for any tourist or resident to explore!

As a Florida local, I have explored so much of the state and know all the best and underrated areas to visit! From top museums to beautiful beaches, I love exploring my amazing state!

Here I have put together a list of the cool things to do in Florida. But be warned: they are spread across the state, so be prepared to travel a bit!

And don’t forget you don’t have to visit all these stops, I just love them so much that I wanted to make sure you had a Florida bucket list to help navigate this wild, Sunshine State.

Here are some ideas of what to do in Florida!

Below I have included some of the most fun things to do in Florida as well as some of the most unique things to do in Florida. Visit where and when you can, and keep in mind that these are in no particular traveling order! Just go and have fun exploring the Sunshine State!

Devil’s Den

This underground spring is one of the U.S.’s most prehistoric places, so of course, I had to add it to your Florida bucket list! In my experience, it is one of the best hidden gems in Florida!

The spring of Devil’s Den is 120 feet in diameter and averages 72 degrees year-round. With a depth of 54 feet, many people come here to snorkel, scuba dive, and even rent a cabin or park their RV for some overnight adventure!

Recreationally, there are huge cabanas, charcoal grills, pavilions, lawn games, and a heated swimming pool, so this spring is full of things you can enjoy!

I used to dive here with my sister and dad before he passed so it holds a special place in our family. It really is such a cool place to explore!

You cannot miss out on Devil’s Den because it is a must-see in Florida attraction!

Where To Stay Near Devil’s Den! Little Ridge Ranch: Check Rates on Booking.com

Ginnie Springs

Ginnie Springs is a private park near High Springs, Florida, and is located near the Santa Fe River. Known for its clear and cold water, this is one of the best things to do in Florida during a hot summer day!

Make sure to check out my master post on the best time to visit Florida including a breakdown by month, weather, events, and more!

There are accessible caverns with sand and limestone bottoms at this spring, and you can float your way around the springs on inner tubes, kayaks, paddle boards, and more.

If interested you can also scuba or snorkel in “Florida’s favorite freshwater dive” or camp by at the wooded acres for a full adventure!

Personally, this is my favorite spring in Florida if I had to pick just one! My favorite part is the Devil’s Ear and Devil’s Eye caves.

Ginnie Springs really is one of the popular Florida things to do!

Where To Stay Near Ginnie Springs! BlueGem Motel : Check Rates on Booking.com

Ringling Museum

One of the coolest things to do in Florida is the Ringling Museum in Sarasota .

This museum is HUGE as it has a variety of different exhibits to explore. If you plan to visit, don’t forget to check out my tips for visiting the Ringling Museum !

From the John and Marble Ringling Museum of Art, which displays antiques and modern works, to the Circus Museum at the Ringling, which is an interactive American circus museum, you can spend hours exploring here.

The Bayfront gardens are also gorgeous, and you can visit the Ca’ d’ Zan mansion on the property! This is to say that this museum is massive (66 acres to be exact!) so give yourself time to marvel at everything!

There is a reason that this tops my list of places in Florida that feel like Europe!

I love that the Ringling Museum feels like Europe. It is a place I always recommend to people visiting Florida.

Check in advance for discounted or free days!

Where To Stay Near The Ringling Museum! Sandcastle Resort at Lido Beach : Check Rates on Booking.com

Bok Tower Gardens

Florida is known for its nature and beautiful views on summer days, so it only makes sense to add gardens and sanctuaries to your Florida bucket list!

Bok Tower Gardens is a contemplative garden and bird sanctuary in Lake Wales, Florida. With 250 acres of vast plants, flowers, trees, and art, this place will leave you breathless.

It features a 205-foot tall Singing Tower with carillon bells, and you can also hike the Pine Ridge Trail or visit the Pinewood Estate if you’re feeling adventurous! Just check out the visitor center when you first stop here!

I first visited this site when I was really young and the memory stayed with me. It is so cool and unique!

This is one of the best things to do in Central Florida .

Where To Stay Near Bok Tower Gardens! Hampton Inn & Suites Lake Wales : Check Rates on Booking.com

Disney World

Would it really be a Florida bucket list without Disney? Walt Disney World is one of the most famous things about Florida, and I highly recommend checking out these theme parks!

I am an annual pass-holder and have been visiting the Disney parks my whole life!

The four parks– Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and Epcot– feature different rides and themes. With character meet and greets, fantastic food, shows, and rides around every corner, you’re bound to have fun here!

Disney is one of the best things to do in Florida with kids, but even adults can have a magical time! Can you really say you’ve been to Florida without the iconic photo in front of the Magic Kingdom castle ?

This really is a must-do in Florida activity for making family memories.

There is also the surrounding area of Disney you can check out, such as the resorts and Disney Springs! Either way, there is so much to do here. If you want more information about Disney, check out my site: Disney Trippers .

Where To Stay Near Disney World! Buena Vista Suites Orlando : Check Rates on Booking.com

Universal Studios

Often seen as Disney’s “competitor” Universal Studios is another theme park in Orlando that is a cool place to visit in Florida, especially for those who love Marvel and Harry Potter!

Featuring thrill rides, Universal has three parks: Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is split between two parks and you can take the Hogwarts Express between the two!

Volcano Bay is one of the best water parks in Florida perfect for a summer day.

For movie lovers alike, this theme park is one of the best things to do in Florida, as there is so much history and love for classic films throughout each park. And you can enjoy Citywalk before or after your adventure inside the parks!

Where To Stay Near Universal Studios! Universal’s Endless Summer Resort: Check Rates on Booking.com

Dome Houses in Florida

Close to Cape Romano Island (which is close to Marco Island ), the Dome Houses are one of the most unique things in Florida to visit!

The Cape Romano Dome Houses are only accessible via water, and their offshore location catches the attention of many. Six dome-shaped homes sit on stilts, surrounded by water.

These homes are abandoned. After being built in the 80s, the firm beach on which the domes were built eventually faded away, and now the domes are surrounded by water, making them the perfect setting for wildlife and tall tales. Make sure to check out the legends when you visit!

If you are looking for things to do in West Florida , make sure to add this to your list!

Where To Stay Near The Dome Houses! Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort and Spa: Check Rates on Booking.com

Kennedy Space Center

The Kennedy Space Center is one of ten National Aeronautics and Space Administration field centers. Located on Merritt Island, this is one of the coolest things you can do in Florida! It is a great day trip from Orlando .

At the space center, you can meet an astronaut, see the Space Shuttle Atlantis, go through the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, and visit the rocket garden.

This center lets visitors get an up-close and hands-on view of humans in space. From exploring NASA’s space shuttle program to discovering more about upcoming space exploration, the Kennedy Space Center is educational and fun.

Growing up, I visited the Kennedy Space Center with my dad. It is such a unique experience!

Book Here: Orlando: Kennedy Space Center Visit with Options

Where To Stay Near The Kennedy Space Center! Beachside Hotel and Suites: Check Rates on Booking.com

Saint Petersburg Sunken Gardens

Located in Saint Petersburg , the Sunken Gardens is one of the most unique things to do in Florida, as there aren’t many gardens like it (they are literally sunken! Below sea level!).

The Sunken Gardens are 4-aces of botanical gardens that have existed for more than a century. They are one of the oldest attractions in the U.S., let alone in Florida.

This paradise located in the city is a great living museum that has a vast amount of tropical plants, meandering paths, waterfalls, and more. The gardens also offer tours, special events, and horticultural programs if it interests you!

A romantic stroll here is one of the best things to do in Florida for couples . Take photos and admire the views together.

I love the Sunken Gardens and think it is the best place to visit in the Tampa area. I have brought many people here including my guy cousins who loved it!

Where To Stay In Saint Petersburg! Crystal Bay Historic Hotel: Check Rates on Booking.com

Clearwater Beach

Would you really have a Florida bucket list if you didn’t have a beach on it? Known for its stretch of soft, white sand, the calm waters of Clearwater draw tourists and residents year-round. It is one of the best cities in Florida !

With a winding beachfront lined with restaurants, cafes, and Pier 60 (which has nightly festivals that feature street performers and craft vendors), this place is always busy! This is also our favorite place to catch the sunset in Clearwater Beach!

From jet-skiing to parasailing and paddle boarding, many people love to spend hours on this beach and then retreat to the promenade for food, shopping, museums, and more.

This beach is one of the best free things to do in Florida.

Where To Stay In Clearwater! Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach: Check Rates on Booking.com

Dry Tortugas National Park

It’s strange to think of national parks in Florida , but Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most fun things to do in Florida!

Located along the Gulf of Mexico, east of Key West, the 7 islands of this park are surrounded by coral reefs ripe for exploration. Many beaches are popular, too!

Famously, Loggerhead Key has a lighthouse and is known for its sea turtles because Loggerhead Reef is nearby. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can check out Windjammer Wreck, which is the remains of an 1875 ship! It’s perfect for scuba and snorkeling in Florida !

Visiting Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the best activities to do in Florida!

Where To Stay In Key West! Truman Hotel: Check Rates on Booking.com

Castillo De San Marcos in Saint Augustine

Saint Augustine is arguably one of the most historical cities in Florida, so of course, I are adding it to your Florida bucket list!

The Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest masonry fort in the United States. Located on the western shore of Matanzas Bay, it is now a national monument!

With Spanish stones, this monument was built to protect and defend Spain’s claims in the New World. While visiting you can explore rooms that once housed soldiers and prisoners, tour the courtyard and gun deck, and watch weaponry demonstrations while learning about its history!

If you are interested in history, this is one of the best historical sites in Florida !

Where To Stay In Saint Augustine! Bayfront Inn : Check Rates on Booking.com

Daytona International Speedway

Daytona Beach is known for two things: the beach, and NASCAR! Of course, I had to add this to my list of things to do in Florida!

Daytona International Speedway is a racetrack that opened in 1959, where it has been home to the Daytona 500, which is arguably one of the most prestigious races in NASCAR history.

When you’re not witnessing a famous event, though, you can also participate in speedway tours and enter the world of racing!

A race here is one of the top things to see in Florida!

Where To Stay In Daytona Beach! Daytona Grande Oceanfront Resort: Check Rates on Booking.com

Butterfly World

Located in Coconut Creek, Florida, Butterfly World is one of the most best things to do in Florida because it is the largest butterfly park in the world!

Opening in 1988, this facility houses 20,000 live butterflies across 3 acres. But the best part is that it doesn’t solely feature butterflies: there are also botanical gardens, a working butterfly farm, and a research facility featured here!

Recently the park has expanded to include aviaries for tropical birds and a lorikeet center! The owners here are adamant about supporting the conservation of butterflies!

Where To Stay Near Butterfly World! Residence Inn Fort Lauderdale Coconut Creek : Check Rates on Booking.com

Duval Street in Key West

Duval Street is a downtown street in Key West, Florida , that runs from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean. This is one of the coolest things to do in Florida, as it is full of adventure and iconic stops!

With its vibrant, hole-in-the-wall bars, historical haunts, shops, and galleries there is not a dull moment on this street! Exploring here is one of the things to do in Florida at night.

You can embark on bar crawls here, run with the bulls, go on a ghost tour, visit Hemingway’s house (which features 6-toed cats!), and eat famous Key lime pie all while enjoying the sun and nearby Key West beaches !

Book Here: Key West: 2.5-Hour Duval Street Pub Crawl

Where To Stay Near Duval Street! The Casablanca Hotel : Check Rates on Booking.com

Legoland is another theme park in Florida that you can add to your Florida bucket list! This theme park is known for being family-friendly, as it focuses on the construction of Lego toys.

Here at Legoland, everything is designed to be like a Lego! The rides look like blocks and pieces, and the park is filled with displays of the famous bricks.

This is one of the best things to do in Florida for adults and kids alike! Everyone will have great childhood fun.

Better yet? There is an awesome hotel you can stay at to really immerse yourself with the brand! Staying here feels like you have shrunk down and are now a little Lego too! Just don’t step on any!

Where To Stay Near Legoland! LEGOLAND Florida Resort: Check Rates on Booking.com

Naples Botanical Garden

Of course, I am adding more botanical gardens to your best things to do in Florida itinerary! Florida has so many of them, and they’re beautiful– especially the Naples Botanical Garden!

Naples Botanical Garden is a 170-acre paradise and one of the best things to do in Naples .

Stepping in here, you can see plants from all around the world with beautiful horticultural design and attention to sustainability!

Today, the garden welcomes over 220,000 guests per year to experience the education centers, shops, halls, themed gardens, and flora that continue to grow.

The is one of the prettiest places to visit in Florida !

Where To Stay Near Naples Botanical Garden! Inn at Pelican Bay : Check Rates on Booking.com

The Dali Museum

The Dali Museum is one of the most unique things to do in Florida, and probably because Dali himself was so unique!

This museum houses the largest collection of Salvador Dali’s work outside of Europe. Set on a waterfront setting, the architecture and exhibits of this museum call people to St. Pete for this gorgeous experience.

Make sure to also check out the Avant garden for a sense of tranquility and do not miss out on the building itself– the cafe is also cute, and the gift shop has so many unique souvenirs!

This is a great activity in one of the best beach towns in Florida .

Where To Stay Near The Dali Museum! Hilton St. Petersburg Bayfront : Check Rates on Booking.com

Wynwood Walls

The Wynwood Walls in Miami are some of the best things to do in Florida! This unique outdoor destination features HUGE street murals from artists across the globe.

The walls are now considered a museum as they feature some of the greatest artists that have worked in graffiti and street art. People come from all over to experience this art.

You can take official tours here or just navigate the murals by yourself! You can also stop by the Kitchen and Bar to support locals!

Where To Stay Near Wynwood Walls! Sentral Wynwood: Check Rates on Booking.com

Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is a 1.5 mullion acre preserve that features wetlands on the southern tip of Florida ! This is one of the must-do Florida activities!

Made up of coastal mangroves, marshes, flat woods, and a variety of animal species, this is a fantastic thing to do in Florida, as you can drive through the Everglades or take a boat out to enjoy the natural beauty.

Don’t forget to book an Everglades airboat tour !

Lots of Florida hiking trails also help you navigate this beautiful park, and if you’re lucky, you can see some endangered Florida animals such as the Florida Panther and West Indian manatee!

It is one of the best places to see alligators in Florida .

This is a great place to stop on your Florida bucket list.

Book Here: Everglades National Park: Airboat Tour and Wildlife Show

Where To Stay Near Everglades National Park! Hampton Inn & Suites Homestead Miami South : Check Rates on Booking.com

Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens is a great addition to your Florida bucket list as it is a perfect combination of a zoo and theme park! This is one of the best things to do in Florida with kids!

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is an African-themed theme park that is over 335 acres and features a variety of animals such as hippos, elephants, otters, and more. You can even see some surgeries take place in the watch center of the animal hospital!

Aside from the animals, there are also shows and SO many thrill rides. Known for its high-speed coasters, you will love the adventure this park brings! It is easily one of the most fun places in Florida!

You will not want to pass up on one of the best things to do in Tampa !

Where To Stay Near Busch Gardens! Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Tampa Busch Gardens Area : Check Rates on Booking.com

Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S.A.

I’ve already talked about some things to do in Florida in regard to Key West, but I am adding more to your Florida bucket list because there is so much to do here!

In particular, make sure to check out the Southernmost Point of the Continental United States. This is the lowest latitude in the North American States and is anchored by a concrete buoy.

Eighteen feet above sea level, this is a popular destination and tourist attraction off of Whitehead Street. It is one of the most visited and photographed attractions in Florida!

This is one of the top things to do in Key West !

Where To Stay In Key West! The Capitana Key West : Check Rates on Booking.com

Anna Maria Island

I am adding another beach to your list of best things to do in Florida! Anna Maria Island is a barrier island located on the Gulf Coast offering many Florida vacation activities.

It is well known for its broad, family-friendly beaches , such as Manatee Beach Park, and its small city is like a resort, lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants on Anna Maria Island .

With a wooden pier and cute markets, lots of tourists love to explore the area that sells food, art, and jewelry in between their time on the sand and in the water!

Where To Stay In Anna Maria Island! Sunrise Garden Resort : Check Rates on Booking.com

Venetian Pool

The Venetian Pool is another cool thing to do in Florida. It is a historical swimming pool located in Coral Gables and was completed in 1924!

Created across 4-acres, the pool has gone through several phases over the years, and has become a National Historical Place.

Occupying over 820,000 gallons of fresh water from artesian wells, this is the largest freshwater pool in the United States. It varies in depth (4 feet from 8 feet), features a waterfall, and has a kiddy pool, bridges, grottos, cafes, and sandy areas!

If you are looking for relaxing Florida vacation things to do, this is it!

Where To Stay In Coral Gables! Hotel St. Michel : Check Rates on Booking.com

Manatee Springs

Manatee Springs State Park is one of the few Florida state parks that have a spring (Manatee Spring) flowing directly into the Suwannee River, one of the best Florida rivers .

This spring features boardwalks beneath cypress forests and in the cooler months, you can spot manatees in some of the clearest water in Florida .

One of the best activities in Florida is kayaking with manatees . Other birds, mammals, and fish are spotted year-round.

From camping to tubing in Florida to walking the 32-mile Nature Coast State Trail, this park is full of adventurous things to do and explore, so therefore it is one of the most fun things to do in Florida!

Overall, this is one of the best state parks in Florida ! If you want to see manatees in Florida , add this to your bucket list.

Where To Stay Near Manatee Springs! Quality Inn near Manatee Springs State Park : Check Rates on Booking.com

Weeki Wachee: City of Live Mermaids

The 12,000-acre Weeki-Wachee preserve is one of the most unique things in Florida because they have mermaids! Yes, live mermaids! This is what to see in Florida!

The Weeki Wachee Springs Park is one of the most commonly visited areas in Florida, as the springs feature cool, clear waters, slides, diving platforms, areas to sit and eat, and more.

It is one of the best swimming holes in Florida !

Better yet, though, this city is known for its legend of mermaids: every day there is a live mermaid show, but if you’re not feeling the fictional wildlife, you can go down the springs and onto the river to kayak and see more wildlife.

This is one of the best springs near Tampa for a relaxing day trip from the city.

Where To Stay Near Weeki Wachee! Lydia’s Retreat : Check Rates on Booking.com

Cassadaga is one of those things in Florida that is so strange but so wonderful. This small town in Voluisa County, Florida, is known for its psychics and mediums.

Known as the “Psychic Capital of the World,” many travel far and wide just to experience the vibe and spiritualness of this area. The streets and small homes are quaint but provide a specific energy.

Between its medium, psychics, healers, haunted hotels, and healing energy, this city is really a village that feels a world away from everything else.

I recommend stopping by for a tour and a reading!

Where To Stay Near Cassadaga ! The Ann Stevens House : Check Rates on Booking.com

Miami Marine Stadium

Located in Virginia Key, Miami, the Miami Marine Stadium was once one of the best things to do in Florida. Even though it hasn’t been used in years, it is still a unique stop on your Florida bucket list!

Once used to host water sports and famous for its scenic views of Downtown Miami, this stadium is now abandoned. However, it is still worth a stop!

Today the entire concrete stadium still stands tall, slanting down toward the water with a folded plate roof, and every inch of it is covered in graffiti. There are claims for it to be haunted as a speed boat driver was killed on opening day, but you might just have to check it out for yourself when stopping to explore and take photos!

If you are looking for unique things to do in Miami , this is it!

Where To Stay Near Miami Marine Stadium! Novotel Miami Brickell : Check Rates on Booking.com

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Previously known as Villa Vizcaya, the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is the former villa and estate of James Deering and was built in 1916. This is one of the best activities in Florida for both history and architecture lovers.

This National Historic Landmark is an experience and therefore I am adding it to your things to do in Florida itinerary as it is a unique cultural gem and one of the best museums in Florida .

This Gilded Age estate on Biscayne Bay is surrounded by 10 acres of gardens, mangroves, and rocky lands. During your tours here you can do a food lab, discover what is in bloom near the Fountain Garden, and explore the estate’s stunning architecture.

Come walk the grounds here and enjoy one of the most romantic things to do in Florida.

Where To Stay Near Vizcaya Museum and Gardens! Hilton Garden Inn Miami Brickell South : Check Rates on Booking.com

Florida’s Volkswagen Graveyard

One of the most unique things to do in Florida includes going to Florida’s Volkswagen graveyard. Although this isn’t an expected stop on any Florida bucket list, it is strange and fun!

Referred to as the “Disney World for Volkswagen enthusiasts,” this junkyard features vintage VWs and you can wander through a field of aging VWs, parts, and more.

With over 300,000 cars here, this graveyard is unique, cool for photo ops, and perfect for any car enthusiast!

The graveyard is found near Dade City.

Where To Stay Near The Volkswagen Graveyard! Hampton Inn Dade City – Zephyr Hills : Check Rates on Booking.com

Juniper Springs

Juniper Springs is another of the best springs in Florida and is perfect for a day of relaxation.

Found in the Ocala National Forest, this is the place to go for swimming, kayaking, and hiking. It is also a great place for wildlife viewing, including otters, American eels, and even albino gray squirrels.

The beautiful blue water is super clear making it ideal for snorkeling. With a year-round temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit, it is refreshing in the heat of a Florida summer.

You can also camp at this spring . The dense canopy provides plenty of shade, picnic tables, and restrooms. This is considered one of the best places for camping in Florida .

Where To Stay Near Juniper Springs!

Big River Marina & Lodge: Check Rates on Booking.com

Bahia Honda State Park

As one of the best state parks in the Florida Keys , Bahia Honda State Park is truly a slice of paradise!

There are three beaches in Bahia Honda , both with beautiful, clear water. This is one of the best places in Florida to scuba dive .

You can also have fun swimming, kayaking , playing in the best white sand of Florida , or relaxing in the shade of a swaying palm tree. Make sure to walk the trail up to the Old Bahia Honda Bridge too so you can find amazing views of the beaches and ocean.

If you chose to camp in the Keys , you will be rewarded with gorgeous stars overhead. Since this Florida Keys island is so remote, the sky is dark, making it one of the best places for stargazing in Florida . There are even stargazing programs led here so you can learn more about the night sky.

Make sure to check out some of my other favorite things to do in the Lower Keys in addition to Bahia Honda!

Where To Stay Near Bahia Honda!

Blackfin Resort and Marina: Check Rates on Booking.com

Crab Island

You’ll find Crab Island off the shore of Destin on the panhandle. This huge sandbar is a great place to anchor your boat and enjoy some classic Florida vibes.

The calm water makes it perfect for swimming, and you can even order some food at one of the floating restaurants. Grab a drink and float on a raft as you soak up the sun.

You can also play water volleyball, jump on water trampolines, or play on water slides. Ley your inner child out! This is a family-friendly attraction too, so bring the kids!

To get here, you can charter a boat, ride the Crab Island Shuttle Boat, or kayak. This is easily one of the best things to do in Destin .

Where To Stay in Destin!

Hampton Inn & Suites Destin: Check Rates on Booking.com

Ocala National Forest

One of the best things to do in Ocala is visiting the national forest. At 383,000 acres, this is the largest sand pine scrub forest in the country.

There is so much to see and do in Ocala National Forest , making it one of the cool places to go in Florida for nature. You’ll enjoy springs, rivers, lakes, and amazing hiking trails.

This forest is also a great place to spot wildlife such as black bears, alligators, deer, and tortoises. Make sure to bring your camera for amazing nature shots!

After hiking or biking, cool off by swimming in one of the beautiful springs in Ocala .

Where To Stay in Ocala! Equus Inn : Check Rates on Booking.com

Silver Springs State Park

Silver Springs State Park is on the edge of Ocala National Park so you can easily visit both of these fun places in Florida on the same day.

Found on the Silver River, this park has a history dating back to the 1870s. Like many tourists before you, come and enjoy the clear water and scenic nature.

One of the top things to do here is taking a glass-bottom boat tour. You will love the unobstructed view of aquatic life.

Other Silver Springs activities include kayaking, canoeing, hiking, camping, and spotting wild monkeys. Keep in mind, though, that swimming is not allowed.

Where To Stay Near Silver Springs State Park! Holiday Inn Express Silver Springs: Check Rates on Booking.com

Looking for small towns to explore near Orlando? You will love all the fun things to do in Mount Dora .

Set on Lake Dora, this is a quaint town full of shops, restaurants, museums, and historic buildings. The town also hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year.

You will have a great time relaxing at the lake or enjoying views from the water as you kayak. Keep an eye out for bald eagles, turtles, and alligators. Fishing is also popular.

Whether you are golfing, shopping, or taking a seaplane tour, you will have a memorable time in Mount Dora!

Where To Stay in Mount Dora! Hampton Inn Mount Dora : Check Rates on Booking.com

What is the Most Visited Destination in Florida?

Orlando is one of the top vacation destinations not only in Florida but in the whole country! People from all over the world travel here to enjoy the best things to do in Orlando .

This Florida city is home to top theme parks such as Disney World, Universal Studios, and Legoland. These are some of the most fun things to do in Orlando with kids !

Even if theme parks are not your scene, there are great museums, world-class dining, rooftop bars, relaxing spas, sporting events, and more.

Because Orlando is centrally located, nature is not far away too. There are many nearby springs, rivers, and hikes.

Orlando is popular because of of all the Florida must-see attractions!

What is the Least Touristy Part of Florida?

The Sunshine State might be a tourist hot spot, but there are plenty of hidden gems in Florida where you can avoid the crowds.

Head away from the major cities and enjoy quiet time in some of the cute small towns in Florida .

North Florida is usually less touristy as well, but still with lots to do. Check out the best things to do in Gainesville or take a trip to the pretty Amelia Island .

Overall, Florida is a big state with many undeveloped areas where you can stay away from the main crowds.

And there you have it: a Florida bucket list that is full of stops that are perfect for any tourist or resident alike.

From unique places to highly anticipated beaches or theme parks and all the natural beauty in between, Florida is not a dull state.

You can spend forever exploring all Florida has to offer, but these 36 stops are where I recommend starting!

And if you’re worried about what to pack on these adventures, check out my Florida packing list , or even my Florida road trip itinerary to help with this bucket list!

Go on and explore the Sunshine State, I promise you won’t be disappointed with the best things to do in FL!

Did You Find This Post Helpful?

If so, we would love to keep in touch! We enjoy seeing photos and comments about your experiences in Florida! You can follow us on Instagram and we will repost your photos on our feed and comment too! Just tag us at @floridatrippers and hashtag #floridatrippers. We can’t wait to see your travels!

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TOP 200 FLORIDA TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

By   Mike Miller  Updated October 25, 2021

Everybody knows about the giant Central Florida attractions and theme parks, but there are also many neat places to visit that are just as much fun. 

Here are some lesser known Florida travel destinations and popular tourist attractions we are sure you will enjoy.  

Our favorite Florida tourist attractions include small amusement parks, zoos, museums, state parks, theme parks, and oddities.

We threw in Walt Disney World and some others that are too big to ignore.

We are sure you will find an attraction that's right for you.

FLORIDA TOURIST ATTRACTIONS AND THINGS TO DO

• Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum , Big Cypress Seminole Reservation, 34725 W Boundary Rd, Clewiston, FL 33440.  Tel: 877-902-1113.  The museum has more than 180,000 artifacts that will help you learn about the culture and history of the Seminole Indians. 
• Air Force Armament Museum, 100 Museum Dr, Eglin AFB, FL 32542. Tel: 850-882-4062.  Displays of armament of aviation warfare from World War One all the way to today's high tech planes, guns, and bombs. Admission Free.
• Air Force Space & Missile Museum, Launch Complex 26, Kennedy Space Center.   Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, Tel:  855-433-4210. The museum opened in 1966 and includes many exhibits about the history of rocketry and space flight.
• AJ's Water Adventures, 116 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541.  Tel: 850-837-2222.  Many ways to enjoy the clear emerald waters including sailing on a 74 foot schooner and blasting along on a 53 foot speedboat.  Fees vary by adventure.
• Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens, 633 Osceola Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789. Tel: 407-647-6294.  Home and studio of a prominent American sculptor.  Included are several of his major works and a beautiful sculpture garden.  

• Alexander Springs Recreational Area,  49525 County Road 445, Altoona, Florida. Tel: 352-669-3522. The recreation area offers camping, swimming, canoeing, scuba diving, hiking, birding and wildlife viewing. It is among 27 first-magnitude springs in Florida and is one of the best places for the whole family to enjoy the outdoors.
• Amelia Island Horseback Riding, Peters Point Rd, Amelia Island, FL 32034. Tel: 904-753-1701.  You call Debbie Manser who meets you at the park with horses you can ride on the Atlantic Ocean beach.  Fees vary by selected ride and number of people.
• Appleton Museum of Art, College of Central Florida, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL 34470. Tel: 954-977-4400. A stunning example of classical architecture clad in Italian travertine marble. The 81,610-square-foot museum features 30,000 square feet of gallery space devoted to the Appleton’s permanent collections.
• Asolo Repertory Theater, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243. Tel: 941-351-8000.  This theater is an important part of Sarasota’s arts scene. It stages up to fifteen productions every season, ranging from new plays to reinterpretations of classical and contemporary works.

• Babcock Ranch Eco Tours, 8000 State Road 31, Punta Gorda, Florida 33982. Tel:800-500-5583. The tours take place on a 92,000 acre working ranch where you will see not only wildlife but typical cattle ranching operations. 
• Bahia Honda State Park 36850 Overseas Hwy, Big Pine Key, FL 33043. Tel 305-872-2353. Great view of the ocean, a nice beach, swimming, boating, fishing, and snorkeling. 
• Bailey-Matthew National Shell Museum, 3075 Sanibel Captiva Rd, Sanibel, FL 33957. Tel: 239-395-2233. This museum is a reference center for scientists and amateur shell collectors.  Shells from all over the world are on display. 
• Barnacle Historic State Park, 3485 Main Hwy, Miami, FL 33133. Tel: 305-442-6866.  This was the home of Coconut Grove pioneer Ralph Middleton Munroe, who preserved the natural areas around his home.  Today's park looks like the homestead did in 1891.
• Beaches . Florida has some of the best in the world. Here is a listing of some of them including Florida's only legal clothing optional beach.  You need to know where it is in case you want to avoid it.  Free admission to most beaches.
• Big Cypress Loop Road & Lucky's Place, Lucky Cole is a photographer who specializes in taking pictures of beautiful nude women in natural settings.  Halfway between Naples and Miami on Tamiami Trail (US-41). They are closed to the public during photo shoots. Tel: 239-695-2550. Free.
• Big Cypress National Preserve, Big Cypress Swamp Welcome Center, 3300 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, Florida 34141. Tel: 239-695-4758.  720,000 acre preserve established in 1974.

• Billy Swamp Safari, 30000 Gator Tail Trail, Clewiston, FL 33440. Tel: 863-983-6101.  Tours and attractions including swamp buggy tours through the natural settings of the Everglades.  See a Seminole snake show. Admission fee varies.
• Biltmore Hotel, 1200 Anastasia Ave, Coral Gables, FL 33134.  Tel:855-311-6903. A magnificent structure built in 1926 and was at that time the tallest building in Florida at 315 feet.  You can eat and sleep and gawk. It's free to just walk in and look.
• Biscayne National Park, 9700 Southwest 328th Street, Sir Lancelot Jones Way, Homestead, Florida 33033.  Tel:  305-230-33033.  The park is nearly 173,000 acres and most of it is underwater. The park preserves Biscayne Bay and its offshore barrier reefs. A great way to enjoy the outdoors, you can snorkel, camp, boat, watch wildlife, fish, take guided eco-adventures, or just relax.
• Blowing Rocks Preserve, 574 S Beach Rd, Hobe Sound, FL 33455. Tel:  561-744-6668. You will enjoy the amazing breaking waves at this environmental preserve on Jupiter Island.  When the surf is heavy, the waves force themselves through holes in the limestone and can blow ocean spray as high as 50 feet in the air.  It's free.
• Blue Spring State Park 2100 W. French Ave., Orange City, FL 32763. Tel: 386-775-3663. This park is a tremendous spot to observe manatees sheltering from the cold in the clear waters from November to March.
• Boat Rentals, Many places all over Florida will rent you a boat for an hour, a day, or longer.  You can be your own Captain, or take a ride on a nice boat where you are a passenger.  This tells you where they are.
• Bob's River Place, 2878 CR 430, Branford, FL 32008. Tel: 352-542-7363.  A rustic attraction on the Suwannee River with water slides, rope swings, docks, waterwheels, ladders:  an old fashioned swimming hole. Admission fee varies.
• Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures, 2001 E. Southport Rd, Kissimmee, FL 34746.  Tel: 407-344-9550. This fleet of 12 airboats takes you on a wide variety of tours where you will see wildlife including water birds and alligators.  Admission fee varies.
• Bok Tower Gardens, 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales, Florida 33853. Tel:863-676-1408. The tower and gardens are a historic setting on one of the highest hills in Florida.  Enjoy daily carillon concerts. 
• Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, 900 N. Birch Rd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304.  Tel: 954-563-5393. A 35 acre estate with a main house full of art and grounds that have some of the last remaining Florida beach native habitat. 
• Boutique Adventures LLC 988s SE 178th Place, Summerfield, FL 34491. Tel: 352-307-5952.  A tour company that takes small groups to central Florida off the beaten path places.
• Breakers Hotel One South County Rd, Palm Beach, FL 33480.  Tel: 877-724-3188. It was opened in 1886 by Henry Flagler.  On the ocean and a great place to tour, dine, eat, and stay.  It's free to walk in and look.

• Brevard Zoo, 8225 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, Florida 32940. Tel:321-254-3002. One of the best things about this popular zoo is that it was built entirely by volunteers and has award winning interactive exhibits, many designed to please children. 
• Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW 5th Ave, Ft Lauderdale, FL 33312. Tel: 954-462-0222. It is ranked in the top ten most visited theaters in the world.  More than 700,000 patrons enjoy more than 700 performances each year. 
• Busch Gardens, 19165 N McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612.  Tel: 813-884-4386.  This is a 335 acre animal themed park with 8 roller coasters, 3 water rides, and many other rides and animal attractions.  Admission fee varies.
• Butterfly World, 3600 W. Sample Rd, Coconut Creek, FL. Tel: 954-997-4400.  Located in Tradewinds Park, the largest butterfly park in the world with more than 20,000 live butterflies an a hummingbird aviary. 
• Ca'da'Zan, Ringling Home , 5401 Bay Shore Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34243.  Tel: 941-359-5700. The home of John Ringling, the circus tycoon.  Now a museum and location for interesting art and circus memorabilia tours.
• Canaveral National Seashore, Entrances near New Smyrna and Titusville. Tel: 321-267-1110. The best 20 miles of undeveloped beautiful white sand beach anywhere in Florida.
• Cassadaga-Mediums and Healers ,  1325 Stevens St., Cassadaga, FL 32706. Tel: 386-228-3171. This small village was established in 1895 by a spiritualist organization and is home to many mediums, psychics, and healers.

• Castillo de San Marcos, 1 South Castillo Dr, St Augustine, FL 32084. Tel: 904-829-6506.   The oldest 17th century fort in North America, this well preserved fort dominates the waterfront in downtown St. Augustine.  There are many exhibits and guided and self guided tours.
• Cat Boat Adventures, Mount Dora Boating Center & Marina, 148 Charles Avenue Mount Dora, FL 32757. Tel: 352-816-9339.  You will pilot your own twin hulled motor boat on Lake Dora while a captain in his own boat narrates and points out highlights. 
• Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary, 1860 Starratt Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32226. Tel: 904-757-3603.  A non-profit sanctuary that gives big cats a permanent home.  They have lions, tigers, pumas, leopards, lynxes and more. 
• Central Florida Railroad Museum, 101 S Boyd St, Winter Garden, FL 34787.  Tel: 407-656-0559. This is a small museum is managed by the Central Florida Railway Historical Society, Inc. It focuses on the railroads of Central Florida.
• Chinsegut Hill Retreat 22495 Chinsegut Hill Road, Brooksville, Florida 34601. Tel: 352-277-1227.  Historic plantation home on one of the highest hills in Central Florida. Serves mainly as conference retreat and wedding venue. 
• Clyde Butcher's Big Cypress Gallery, 52388 Tamiami Trail, Ochopee, Florida 34141.  Tel: 239-695-2428.  A large collection of the photographer's work. 
• Coral Castle, 28655 South Dixie Hwy, Homestead, FL 33033. Tel:305-248-6345. A lovesick immigrant from Latvia spent most of his life building this amazing monument to the sweetheart who jilted him at the altar. 
• Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary 375 Sanctuary Rd West, Naples, FL 34120.  Tel: 239-349-9151.  This sanctuary has preserved the last remaining large stands of bald cypress and pond cypress in North America. 
• Cracker Country Rural History Museum 4800 Hwy 301 North, Tampa, FL 33610. Tel: 813-627-4225.  This living history museum is open to the public during the Florida State Fair in February.
• Crystal River Swim With Manatees, Crystal River, Florida.  There are many businesses in this town that will show you the hundreds of manatees that gather here and even let you get in the water and swim with the gentle creatures. 
• Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, 829 Riverside Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32204. Tel: 904-356-6857. The Cummer has one of the finest permanent art collections in Florida, with nearly 5,000 objects. This art ranges in age from 2100 B.C. through modern times.
• Dade Battlefield Historic State Park, 7200 CR 603, Bushnell, Florida 33513.  Tel: 352-793-4781.  This park was established in 1921 to preserve and commemorate the site of Dade’s Battle of 1835.  Of 110 American soldiers, only 3 survived the ambush by Seminoles.  It precipitated am awful war.  
• Dali Museum, 1000 Third Street So., St. Petersburg, FL 33701. Tel: 727-823-3767. This museum displays the work of only one artist, Salvador Dali.  It is home to an amazing collection of traditional and modern art. 

• Daytona International Speedway 1801 W. International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, Tel: 800-748-7467.  If you visit during other than the featured events, such as the historic Daytona 500, you can go on a first come-first served tour.
• DeFuniak Springs Historic District ,  City of DeFuniak Springs 71 US 90 West, DeFuniak Springs, FL 32433. Tel: 850-892-8500. A large collection of functioning Victorian homes and buildings.  It is may have more such buildings than any other town in the U.S.
• Deseret Ranches,   Visitor and Information Center, 3584 Orchid Circle, St. Cloud, Florida 34773. Tel: 407-498-0388.  This is one of the largest working cow-calf ranches in the United States.  It's 295,000 acres sprawl between Orlando and Cocoa.  Tours are available.
• Destin Sand Castle Lessons, Beach Sand Sculptures, POB 32459, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32549. The beautiful sand beaches in the Destin area are home to these experts who teach you how to build your ultimate sand castle.
• Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park, 4732 Millhopper Rd, Gainesville, FL 32652. Tel: 352-955-2008. You walk down a 232-step wooden staircase into the bottom of a geological formation that has been attracting visitors for well over a century. 
• Dinosaur World, 5145 Harvey Tew Road, Plant City, FL 33565. Tel: 813-717-9865. The entire family will love wandering around this place that features replicas of more than 150 dinosaurs.  It's fun and educational. 
• Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge,   1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel, Florida 333957.  A 5,200 acre refuge, part of the U.S. National Wildlife Refuge System.  Migratory birds galore.
• Disney Springs, 1486 Buena Vista Drive, Orlando, FL 32830. Tel: 407-939-6244. Spend a day to two and this giant outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment complex at Walt Disney World.
• Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing, 13700 SW 16th Ave, Ocala, FL 34473.  Tel: 352-245-8661.  This museum has more than 90 race cars on display and another 50 antique cars.  Garlits is a former champion drag racer. 
• Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts 445 S. Magnolia Ave, Orlando, FL 32801. Tel: 844-513-2014. The 2-block Center includes the Walt Disney Theater, the Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater, the DeVos Family Room, the Seneff Arts Plaza, and many other spaces set aside for private events.   
• Dry Tortugas National Park, Mailing Address: 40001 State Road 9556, Homestead, FL 33034. Tel:  305-242-7700. You can take a long day trip or enjoy a camping adventure by visiting Dry Tortugas National Park about 70 miles west of Key West.  It is home to Fort Jefferson.
• Edison and Ford Winter Estates, 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33901. Tel:239-334-7419. The great inventor and his auto tycoon friend had winter homes side by side on the Caloosahatchee River.  You can visit these amazing places and see where Edison worked on his inventions. 
• Epcot, Walt Disney World Resort, 200 Epcot Center Dr, Orlando,FL 32821. Tel: 407-939-5277.  One of 4 theme parks at WDW, this is a park that celebrates human achievement in technology and culture.
• Everglades and Keys Kayak Tours, 104050 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037. Tel: 305-451-3018. The Keys are at the southernmost point of the Sunshine State.  Key Largo is the largest and most northern of the keys, often called the "dive capital" of the world.  Run by Florida Bay Outfitters, this is where you can begin a wide variety of Florida Keys and South Florida paddling trips.
• Everglades National Park, Entrances in Everglades City, Shark Valley, Homestead.  Basic fee is $25.00 per car.  Best time to visit is December to March when mosquitoes are on vacation.
• Everglades Rod and Gun Club, 200 Riverside Drive, Everglades City, Florida 34139.  Tel: 239-695-2101.  Rambling historic hotel on the Barron River.

• Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 10901 Old Cutler Rd, Coral Gables, FL 33156. Tel: 305-667-1651.  This 83 acre garden is one of the world's best tropical botanic gardens.  It has the largest palm collection in the world.  
• Fantasy of Flight, 1400 Broadway Blvd SE, Polk City, FL 33868. Tel: 863-984-3500.  A display of more than 140 civilian and military planes and many of them can fly.  Tours and learning about aviation history.
• Farm Tours of Ocala, 801 SW 60th Ave, Ocala, FL 32668.  Tel: 352-895-9302.  This is a 3 hours and 15 minute tour of working farms where you can go behind the scenes and chat with pros who work with thoroughbred horses.  
• Flagler College (Ponce de Leon Hotel) 74 King Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084.  Tel: 904-829-6481. The hotel was built by railroad tycoon Henry Flagler in 1888 and is a National Historic Landmark.You can take a tour and explore.
• Flagler Museum, Whitehall One Whitehall Way, Palm Beach, FL 33480.  Tel: 561-655-2833. The former mansion of railroad tycoon Henry Flagler, it is now a 73 room museum with guided tours, exhibits, and programs.
• Florida Air Museum,  4175 Medulla Road, Lakeland, FL 33811.  Tel: 863-904-6833. This museum is designated as Florida’s  “ Official Aviation Museum and Education Center”. It is housed in a building on the campus of the Sun ‘n Fun fly-in and expo at Lakeland Linder International Airport.
• Florida Aquarium, 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa, FL 33602. Tel: 813-273-4000.  It is ranked in the top 10 U.S. aquariums by TripAdvisor.  It focuses on teaching visitors about the ecosystems of Florida and the world. 
• Florida Caverns State Park, 3345 Caverns Rd, Marianna, FL 32446. Tel: 850-482-1228. It is your chance to explore a network of underground caves created from limestone formations that have slowly dissolved over thousands of years.   
• Florida Day Trips by Theme Some people like to focus on one theme like museums, art, theater, history, architecture, etc.  This web page has 250 attractions involving 20 different themes such as outdoor adventures, Florida history, arboretums, gardens, historic buildings, and more.
• Florida Citrus Tower, 141 North Highway US-27, Clermont, FL 34711. Tel: 352-394-4061. Built in 1956 during the glory days of citrus, this tall observation tower takes you up in an elevator where you can see the view. 
• Florida Festivals   There are numerous Florida events that take place on an annual schedule. In addition to Florida's many art and music festivals, there are great boating and sporting events, and fun festivals that don't quite fit into any neat category.
• Florida Heritage Sites These are 1,300 historic and culturally significant sites scattered all over the state. There is something for everyone on this list.
• Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, 35 East Quay Road, Key West, FL 33040.  Tel: 305-809-4750.  The center teaches you about the native plants, animals, and ecosystems of the Florida Keys.  There are several exhibits including an interactive satellite map of the Florida Keys. 

• Florida Museum of Natural History, University of Florida Cultural Plaza, SW 34th Street and Hull Road, PO Box 112710, Gainesville, FL 32611. Tel:352-846-2000.  This free museum has one of the largest collections of natural history items in the U.S.  Kids love the 14 foot tall mammoth skeleton.
• Florida Railroad Museum , 12210 83rd Street East, Parrish, FL 34219. Tel: 941-776-0906.  This is one of 3 official state railroad museums in Florida.  The museum has a large collection of rolling stock including 9 locomotives and 15 cars including Pullmans, cabooses, and various kinds of freight cars. 
• Florida State Capitol, Florida’s Capitol Complex, 400 South Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32399.  Tel: 850-488-6167.  The old capitol building has been preserved and restored and is next door to the modern tower that serves as the headquarters for Florida’s state government.
• Florida Theatre 128 East Forsyth St., Jacksonville, FL 32202. Tel: 904-355-5661. First opened in 1927. In addition to 200 cultural and entertainment events each year including ballet, opera, pop, jazz, rock, country, blues, plays, and movies, it is also home to school graduations and charity events.    
• Fort Caroline National Memorial, 12713 Fort Caroline Road, Jacksonville, FL 32225. Tel: 904-641-7155.  This free attraction is on the south bank of the St. Johns River.  It memorializes France's shore lived presence in Florida in the 16th century.
• Fort Christmas Historical Park, 1300 Fort Christmas Rd, Christmas, FL 32709. Tel: 407-254-9310. The fort is a full-scale replica of the one that was built on Christmas Day, 1837.  Many interesting buildings and artifacts.

• Fort Clinch State Park, 2601 Atlantic Avenue, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034. Tel: 904-277-7274.  The park has 1,400 acres of natural beauty and a historic fort that sometimes has rangers dressed in period military uniforms.
• Fort Desoto Park, 3500 Pinellas Bayway South Tierra Verde, FL 33715.  Tel: 727-582-2267.  1,136 acres on 5 interconnected small islands with great camping and beaches.
• Fort Gates Ferry, 229 Fort Gates Ferry Rd, Crescent City, FL 32112. Tel:386-467-2411.  Cars, motorcycles, or bikes can take this small ferry across the St. Johns River from the Ocala National Forest or a fish camp. 
• Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi, 5 Boarding Locations in Fort Lauderdale, Tel: 954-467-6677.  You can go to a specific destination or ride all day on the rivers and canals of Fort Lauderdale.  Stop and get on at many locations. 
• Frank Lloyd Wright Child of the Sun, Florida Southern College, 111 Lake Hollingsworth Drive, Lakeland, FL 33801. Tel: 863-680-4597.  Home to several buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. This collection is named Child of the Sun.  All the structures are on the National Register of Historic Places and are working buildings used by students and faculty. 
• Freedom Tower Miami, 600 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132. Tel: 305-237-7700. Iconic tower built in 1925 for newspaper offices.  From 1962 to 1964, it served as a processing center for the thousands of Cuban refugees who left Cuba after Castro's communist government takeover.
• Fruit And Spice Park, 24801 SW 187 Ave, Homestead, FL 33031. Tel: 305-247-5727. A county park devoted to fruits and spices. Things grow in this part of Florida that won't grow elsewhere in Florida or the United States. 
• Fun Spot America, 5700 Fun Spot Way, Orlando, FL 32819. Tel: 407-363-3867.  On International Drive in Orlando, this has 4 different go-kart tracks and 3 roller coasters, plus another 3 different thrill rides. 
• Gatorland, 14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32837. 1-800-393-5297.  One of Florida's oldest attractions, it still entertains with thousands of alligators and a thrilling canopy ride. 
• Ginnie Springs Outdoors, 7300 N.E. Ginnie Springs Road, High Springs, FL 32643. Tel:386-454-7188.  This is a great place to camp or just chill out in the cool spring waters swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking. 
• Good Spirits and Good Times .  A listing of 14 great restaurants, wineries, and places to enjoy yourself.
• Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, 1010 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548.  Tel: 850-243-9046.  Focuses on animal encounters with dolphins, stingrays, gators, reptiles, turtles, penguins, seals, and birds. 
• Gumbo Limbo Nature Center,  1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton, FL 33432. Tel: 561-544-8605. Twenty acres of protected barrier island with ecosytems, exotic trees, and a turtle rehabilitation facility.  
• Harbor Branch Ocean Discovery Center, 5600 N US Highway 1, Fort Pierce, FL 34946. Tel: 772-242-2293.  When you step through the doors here, you will be entering a large functioning oceanographic research institution with a storied history.

• Hemingway Home , 907 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. Tel: 305-294-1136.  The great author lived here from 1931 to 1940.  It has many of his furnishings and the first in ground swimming pool in Key West. 
• Highlands Hammock State Park, 5931 Hammock Rd, Sebring, FL 33872. Tel: 863-386-6094. This park  has one of Florida’s diverse collections of plant and animal life in Florida.  The park is home to 1,000-year-old oaks, old growth hammock, and the Florida panther. 
• Ichetucknee Inner Tube Trip Ichetucknee Springs State Park 12087 SW U.S. 27, Fort White, FL 32038.  Tel: 386-497-4690.  A Florida tradition for years, floating down the clear cool river. 
• ICON Orlando ,  8401 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819. Tel: 407-270-8644. A giant 400 foot tall observation tower in the form of a Ferris Wheel with separate enclosed air conditioned observation capsules. 
• Jacksonville Museum of Science and History, 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207. Tel: 904-396-6674.  Interactive exhibits about your body's systems , energy exhibits, and animal encounters.  Also a boat tour on the St. Johns River.  

• Jacksonville Zoo ,  370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218. Tel: 904-757-4463.  This historic zoo is organized around several major exhibits.  You will see dozens of exotic birds, crocodiles, antelopes, cheetahs, zebras, elephants, lions, monkeys, and you can feed a sting ray.  
• Judah P. Benjamin Confederate Memorial, Gamble Plantation State Park 3708 Patten Ave, Ellenton, FL 34222. Tel: 941-723-4536. The memorial is a pre-Civil War mansion, the only surviving plantation house in south Florida.
• John Gorrie State Museum, 46 6th St, Apalachicola, FL 32320. Tel: 850-653-9347.  Dr. Gorrie is considered the father of modern air conditioning.  This museum has exhibits of his early experiments and Apalachicola memorabilia.
• Jungle Island, 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami, Florida 33132.  Tel: 305-400-7000.  Famous place where birds fly around without cages. It has more than 2,000 varieties of tropical plants and 1,100 tropical birds.
• Jungle Queen Riverboat, 801 Seabreeze Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316. Tel:954-462-5596. You can enjoy day tours of the Fort Lauderdale waterways and also go on dinner cruises past the homes of the rich and famous.  
• Kayaking at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida 32459.  Tel: 850-267-8330. Visitors can kayak, canoe, or paddleboard on a coastal dune lake in this beautiful state park with beach dunes more than 25 feet high.
• Kennedy Space Center Visitors Complex , SR 405, Kennedy Space Center, FL 32899. Tel: 855-433-4210.  The best way to enjoy this attraction is to plan on a full day or two.  You can plan your trip in advance and see hundreds of exhibits and displays, the real Space Shuttles, theaters, bus tours, and much more.  Daily presentations for a veteran astronaut.  

• Key West Aquarium, 1 Whitehead Street (Mallory Square), Key West, Florida 33040. Tel: 305-296-2051. This historic museum is a place where you can get up close and personal with animals such as horseshoe crabs and Florida lobster.  You will enjoy a 90 minute guided tour. 
• Key West Express, 100 Grinnell St., Key West, FL 33040. Tel: 239-463-5733.  This two vessel passenger ferry operates between Fort Myers Beach, Marco Island, and Key West.  It is a fast and comfortable way to travel. 
• Kingsley Plantation, 11676 Palmetto Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32226. Tel: 904-641-7155. Located on Fort George Island are the owner's house built about 1798 and the remains of 25 slave cabins.
• Koreshan State Park, 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero, FL 33928. Tel: 239-992-0311. The buildings are preserved of a cult that believed the entire universe existed inside of a giant, hollow sphere.  Interesting exhibits and a serene campground.
• Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail, This is a free hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, and roller blading trail around the perimeter of Lake Okeechobee.  The trail is on top of the 110 mile long dike around the lake.  Great scenic views of lake.
• Lake Placid Murals 18 North Oak St, Lake Placid, FL 33852.  Tel: 863-465-4335.  Downtown Lake Placid has one of the largest outdoor art displays in Florida. These displays are in the form of murals on building walls that celebrate the history of the area.  At last count, there are 47 historic murals in town. 
• Legoland Florida Resort, 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven, FL 33884.  Tel: 888-690-5346. Kids can assemble Lego toys on this 150 acre theme park with more than 50 rides, dozens of shows, shops, restaurants, and a water park. 
• Leu Gardens, 1920 North Forest Avenue, Orlando, FL 32803. Tel: 407-246-2620. The former estate of an Orlando businessman, this 50 acre botanical garden is divided into more than a dozen specialty gardens. 

• Lighthouses, Florida has many that can be visited by car.  You can climb to the top of some of them, and many also have museums featuring the history and artifacts of their area.
• Lion Country Safari, 2003 Lion Country Safari Road, Loxahatchee, FL 33470. Tel: 561-793-1084.  You will love driving through this large attraction in your car while the animals roam free.  You will see more than 1,000 exotic animals in something close to their natural habitat. 
• Little Talbot Island State Park, 12157 Heckscher Dr., Jacksonville, FL 32226.  Tel: 904-251-2320.  Great camping and beach access.
• Mallory Square, 400 Wall St, Key West, FL 33040.  Tel: 305-809-3700.  This is the gathering place for locals and visitors.  There is all kind of entertainment, food vendors, and the best sunset in Florida. Free.
• Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 900 S. Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236.  Tel: 941-366-5731.  This 15 acre garden is the only one in the world devoted to epiphytes.  These include orchids, bromeliads, and hundreds of other plants. 
• Marineland Florida, 9600 Oceanshore Blvd., St. Augustine, Florida 32080. Tel:904-471-1111.  Here you can swim with the dolphins.  It is a dolphin research center that was once Florida's most popular tourist attraction. 
• Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park,  18700 S CR 325, Cross Creek, FL 32640. Tel: 352-466-3672.  You will experience what 1930s farm life was like when the famous author lived and worked here.  Her Florida Cracker style home and farm has been restored and is preserved.

• Mayport Highway A1A Car Ferry  across the St. Johns River from Mayport to Fort George Island
• McLarty Treasure Museum, 13180 N Hwy A1A, Vero Beach, FL 32963. Tel: 321-984-4852.  The museum is part of Sebastian Inlet State Park.  It features treasure artificats and displays from some of the 11 Spanish galleons sunk in the ocean near here over 300 years ago. 
• Menello Museum of American Art, 900 E. Princeton Street, Orlando, FL 32803. Tel: 407-246-4278. The museum’s mission is to preserve, display, and interpret the permanent collection of paintings by Earl Cunningham, a folk artist who painted mostly coastal landscapes of America’s Atlantic Coast. 
• Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, 1987 Scrub Jay Way, Titusville, FL 32782. Tel: 321-861-5601.  This huge refuge is in the shadow of Kennedy Space Center.  It has 140,000 acres and over 1,000 species of plants, 117 fish species, and much more.  It has miles of hiking and driving trails. 
• Miami Marine Stadium, Rickenbacker Causeway, Virginia Key, Miami, Florida.  You can drive up to this place but not go in.  It's a historic graffiti covered stadium that used to feature many events and boat races before it finally bit the dust.  It may be preserved, but see it while you can.  Free.
• Miami Seaquarium, 4400 Rickenbacker Cswy, Miami, FL 33149. Tel: 305-361-5705.  A 38 acre child friendly attraction where you can interact with dolphins, sea lions, sharks, birds, fish, and more. 
• Miccosukee Indian Village, This tribe separated from the Seminoles in 1962.  The village is about 30 miles west of Miami on the Tamiami Trail (US-41).  Guides will explain the tribes history, culture, and lifestyle.
• Miccosukee Resort and Gaming, 500 SW 177th Avenue, Miami, Florida 33194.  Tel: 305-222-4600.  Gambling, entertainment, and tours.

• Mill Creek Farm Retirement Home For Horses, 20307 NW County Road 235-A, Alachua, Florida 32616. Tel: 386-462-1001.  Old horses wear out just like people.  These horses used to pull carriages, support police forces, and just work.  Here they can spend their senior years on a nice rolling horse farm. Admission fee 2 carrots.
• Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach, Florida 33446. Tel: 561-495-0233.  Japanese farmers established a colony in this area years ago.  The museum celebrates their culture, has beautiful landscaped grounds, and a collection of bonsai trees.  
• Morse Museum, 445 N Park Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789. Tel: 407-645-5311.  The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art is home to the world's most comprehensive collection of the works of Louis Comfort Tiffany, including jewelry, pottery, paintings, art glass and more. 
• Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34236. Tel: 941-388-4441. An independent research institution that studies manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, sharks, and coral reefs.  
• Murder Mystery Dinner Train , Colonial Passenger Station, 2805 Colonial Blvd , Fort Myers, FL 33966. Tel: 239-275-8487. Have you ever wanted to go to a murder mystery dinner?  Have you ever wanted to ride on a train?  Here is your chance to do both.   
• Museum of Florida History, 500 S Bronough, Tallahassee, FL 32399. Tel: 850-245-6400.  The official history museum of the state focuses on artifacts and eras unique to Florida and roles Floridians have played in history. Free.
• Museum of the Everglades , 105 Broadway Ave West, Everglades City, FL 34139. Tel: 239-695-0008.  This small museum is in the former laundry building of the historic Everglades Rod and Gun Club.  The building is on the National Register of Historic Places and has a small collection of artifacts.

• Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples, FL 34112. Tel: 239-643-7275.  This unique garden specializes in plants that exist between 26 Latitude North and 26 Latitude South.  They have plants from all over the world, and a 90 acre nature preserve with otters, eagles, and more. 
• Naples Princess Cruises, 550 Port O Call Way, Naples, FL 34102. Tel: 239-649-2275.  A 105 foot luxury yacht that offers daily public cruises along the waterfront in Naples.  You will see magnificient homes, and can enjoy a sunset. 
• Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens , 1590 Goodlette Frank Rd, Naples, FL 34102. Tel: 239-262-5409.  One of the oldest zoos in Southwest Florida, it is divided into habitat areas where you can see animals in natural conditions. 
• National Naval Aviation Museum, 1750 Radford Blvd., Suite C, Naval Air Station Pensacola, FL 32508. Tel:850-452-3604.  Pensacola is the birthplace of naval aviation, and this museum has a superb large collection of navy aircraft and memorabilia. Admission Free.
• National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum,

• Naturecoast Botanical Gardens ,  1489 Parker Avenue, Spring Hill, FL.  This 4.5 acre botanical attraction features 22 separately themed gardens.  The Rose Garden Gazebo and Asian Garden are popular wedding venues.  Admission is free, open every day of the year.
• Ocala National Forest, Lake George Ranger District, 17147 E SR 40, Silver Springs, Florida 34488.  Tel: 352-625-2520.  The forest has 607 square miles with 600 lakes, campgrounds, hiking and off road trails, and many animals including black bears, deer, boar, otters, and more.  Admission free.
• Ocean Drive Art Deco District 1001 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, Florida.  Tel: 305-763-8026. South Beach has an interesting mix of well preserved and functioning hotels, restaurants, and shops with Art Deco, Mediterranean Revival, and Miami Modern Styles.  
• Oldest House Museum Complex, 14 St. Francis St, St. Augustine, FL 32084.  Tel: 904-824-2872.  The Oldest House Museum Complex is located across from the historic National Guard building in downtown St. Augustine. 
• Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park , 5815 Battlefield Trail Rd, Olustee, FL 32087. Tel: 386-758-0400. A site of a significant Civil War battle.  U.S. Colored troops took part in the battle.  You can see exhibits and artifacts in the visitor center.

• Orange County Regional History Center. 65 East Central Boulevard, Orlando, Florida 32801. Tel: 407-836-8500.  This museum celebrates Central Florida history all the way from the first Native Americans to today's giant theme parks. 
• Orlando Science Center, 777 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803. Tel: 407-514-2000. It teaches science and makes sure kids have fun doing it. A large facility with 4 floors of science exhibits, giant screen movie theaters, and live programming, exhibit halls and science stations.   
• Orlando Significant Tree Tour .    Various city parks each feature ancient giant trees.  It is a self guided tour and our website provides you with a map.  Free.
• Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park 100 Savannah Blvd., Micanopy, FL 32667. Tel: 352-466-3397. A 22,000 acre savannah with a wide variety of wildlife including bison and horses in addition to hundreds of bird varieties.
• Pensacola Historic Village 120 Church Street, Pensacola, FL 32502. Tel: 850-595-5985.  Historic Pensacola is a neighborhood of 28 historic buildings and museums. Charming homes, shops, restaurants, and galleries. 
• Philharmonic Center for the Arts 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples, FL 34108. Tel: 239-597-1111. Fondly called "The Phil" by locals, the Philharmonic complex in Naples includes the Baker Museum as well as the performing home of the Naples Philharmonic Orchestra.
• Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse 4931 S. Peninsula Dr., Ponce Inlet, FL 32127, Tel: 386-761-1821. The lighthouse is on an inlet south of Daytona Beach.  You can climb to the top and see a fantastic view of the ocean and beaches.  

• Princess Place Preserve , 2500 Princess Place Rd., Palm Coast, Florida 32137.  This was the hunting lodge of a rich northerner.  He died and his widow married a Russian prince.  This became their winter home and you can tour it. Free admission.
• Rainbow Springs State Park 19158 Southwest 81st Place Road, Dunnellon, Florida 34432.  Tel: 352-465-8555.  At the park’s main entrance you can swim in the freshwater Rainbow River, rent canoes and kayaks, view waterfalls and gardens and enjoy a picnic area with grills, and pavilions. 
• Raymond E. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts 701 Okeechobee Blvd, W. Palm Beach, FL 33401. Tel:561-833-8300. The center has a performance and black box theater, an amphitheater and an events hall. It is the first performing arts center in the world to have a custom-designed digital organ.
• Renninger's Mount Dora Twin Markets 20651 US-441, Mount Dora, FL 32757, Tel: 352-383-8393. This is a huge antique center and adjacent flea market on the same property. Each market has hundreds of vendors.  Antiques, clothing, plants, product, eggs, meat, pets, and about anything else.
• Reptile Discovery Center 2710 Big John Drive, DeLand, FL 32724, Tel: 32724. This is a working venom extraction facility that has exhibits, tours, and field trips that will educate you about reptiles, including snakes.
• Richloam General Store , 38219 Richloam Clay Sink Road, Webster, FL. Tel: 800-915-8027. The store is a historic structure dating back to 1922 that was originally used as a general store.  Over the years it also served as a railroad express station and post office.  Today it is a gift shop and museum and a glimpse into of Old Florida.
• Ringling Museum of Art 5401 Bayshore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243. Tel: 941-359-5700.  The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art is the official art museum for the State of Florida. The huge museum contains 21 galleries of European paintings as well as many pieces of Asian, American, and contemporary art.  
• Ripley's Believe It Or Not! Museum, 19 San Marco Ave, St Augustine, FL 32084.  Tel: 904-824-1606. The bizarre objects here include 20,000 photographs, 3,000 artifacts, and more than 100 panels from Ripley's cartoons.  
• River Safaris, 10823 West Yulee Dr., Homosassa, FL 34448. Tel: 352-628-5222. They have airboat tours, rental boats, pontoon boat tours, manatee tours, scalloping and fishing adventures and more.

• Robert Is Here , 19200 SW 344th St., Homestead, FL 33034. Tel: 305-246-1592.  One of the largest produce stands in Florida, it features an amazing selection of tropical fruits grown in South Florida.
• Robert The Doll, Fort East Martello Museum, Key West, FL 33040. Tel: 305-296-3913.  Robert is a spooky doll on display here that many people believe is haunted.
• Sarasota Jungle Gardens, 3701 Bayshore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34234. Tel: 941-355-1112.  A 10 acre tropical site with more than 200 animals including birds of prey, parrots, macaws, primates, small mammals, snakes, lizards and more.  There is a large flock of pink flamingos that are friendly. 
• Scalloping in the Gulf of Mexico, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission 620 S. Meridian St, Tallahassee, FL 32399. Tel: 850-488-4676 Scalloping season is usually July through September. During season, thousands of people gather along the gulf coast from south of Steinhatchee up to the Carrabelle area. Their fishing equipment consists of snorkel gear and buckets.
• Schooner Freedom, 111 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL 32084. Tel: 904-810-1010. This is a 76 foot schooner where you can go for a sail and even help sail it.  You will see the sights of the Ancient City. 
• Seacrest Wolf Preserve, 3449 Bonnet Pond Rd, Chipley, FL 32428.  Tel: 850-773-2897.  The preserve offers visitors a walking rip into natural habitat where they will see Gray, Arctic, and British Columbian wolves.
• Seaside, Florida Scenic Highway 30A Between Panama City Beach and Destin.  A planned community created in 1981 on what had been an 80-acre private family retreat.  The community is a pioneer of the concept now known as New Urbanism. 

• Sea Turtles on Florida Beaches , Nesting season is from May to October and the turtles nest on beaches in every region of the state.  This article tells you where you can go to see them.
• Seaworld Orlando, 7007 Sea World Dr, Orlando, FL 32821. Tel: 407-545-5550.  Three different parks in one:  SeaWorld, Aquatica, and Discovery Cove.  Dolphins, whales, manatees, sea lions, and others perform.  
• Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood, FL 33314. Tel: 866-502-7529.  A very large hotel and event center, along with 2,000 slot machinces, restaurants, a beach club, and other gaming opportunities.
• Shark Valley Tram Tours, 36000 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33194.  Tel: 305-221-8455.  This tour is in Everglades National Park 40 miles west of Miami.  You can ride your own bike on the 15 mile long trail or take a tram tour.  
• Silver Springs State Park,  1425 Northeast 58th Ave, Ocala, FL 34470.   Tel: 352-236-7148.  The springs and attraction are in a Florida State Park.  You can enjoy riding on the glass-bottomed boats, paddling in a kayak, or being amazed at the crystal-clear blue depths of Silver Springs. 
• Smallwood Store, 360 Mamie St, Chokoloskee, FL 34138. Tel: 239-695-2989.  This old store was opened in 1906 and is now operating as a museum that displays the items that were sold here to pioneers and Seminoles in the old days.  It has survived six hurricanes (as of 2018).
• Solomon's Castle ,   4533 Solomon Rd., Ona, FL 33865. Tel: 863-494-6077.  The late Howard Solomon was an artist who created art out of junk, including the castle-like museum.  You will be amazed at his creations. 

• Spook Hill ,  5th St, Lake Wales, FL 33853.  This old attraction has been around for years.  You park your car, put it in neutral, and watch it apparently coast uphill.  Free.
• St. Augustine Alligator Farm , 999 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine, FL 32080.  Tel: 904-824-3337.  The oldest in Florida, and it features a huge selection of animals including gators and Maximo, the 14 foot long crocodile.  .
• St. Johns Rivership Company, 433 N. Palmetto Ave, Sanford, FL 32771.  Tel: 321-441-3030.  The 105 foot modern sternwheeler "Barbara Lee" takes you on a narrated cruise on the St Johns River from downtown Sanford. 
• Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, 11016 Lillian Saunders Dr (US-41), White Springs, FL 32096.  Tel: 386-397-4331. The park honors Stephen Foster, the composer of Florida's official song "Old Folks at Home".  The museum here contains many exhibits and a carillon plays music during the day.
• Suncoast Primate Sanctuary 4600 US-19 ALT, Palm Harbor, FL 34683. Tel: 727-943-5897.    This is a non-profit foundation that is home to chimpanzees, orangutans, monkey, other primates, as well as birds.
• Sunken Gardens, 1825 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704. Tel: 727-551-3102. This botanical garden is more than 100 years old and includes 50,000 tropical plants and cascading waterfalls. 
• Tampa Museum of Science & Industry, 4801 E Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL 33617.  Tel: 813-987-6000.  Among its features are a planetarium. and several exhibits that explain science, health and wellness, space, and weather.  They call it a scientific playground, and it has more than 100 hands-on activities. 
• Theatre Of The Sea , Mile Marker 84.5, Islamorada, Florida. Tel: 305-664-2431.  An old attraction where you can swim with dolphins and watch sharks, turtles, and other species swimming around in front of you.  

• The Ancient Spanish Monastery 16711 W. Dixie Hwy, North Miami Beach, FL 33160. Tel: 305-945-1461. This is the oldest building in Florida.  Built in Spain in 1141, it was taken apart, and put back together in 1954. 
• The Dolphin Connection, Hawk's Cay Resort,61 Hawk's Cay Boulevard, Duck Key, FL 33050. Tel: 1-888-814-9154.  This is one of the most popular places in the Florida Keys to learn about dolphins and swim with them. 
• The Florida Key Lime Pie Company 102 Dixie Lane, Cocoa Beach, Florida 32931.  Tel: 321-385-9600.  Great attraction next to Ron Jon Surf Shop with great desserts, gifts, and Sweetie the Alligator.
• The Lightner Museum, 75 King St, St. Augustine, FL 32084.  Tel: 904-824-2874.  In a former grand hotel, it has a large collection of fine and decorative 19th century art, much of it from the gilded age. 
• The Revs Institute, 2500 S Horseshoe Dr, Naples, FL 34104. Tel: 239-687-7387. A formerly private collection, it's home to more than 100 beautiful autos manufactured between 1896 and 1995. 
• Tigertail Beach , 430 Hernando Dr., Marco Island, FL 34145. Tel: 239-252-4000. A tranquil wild beach in the middle of busy Marco Island.
• Treaty Oak, Jesse Ball duPont Park, 1123 Prudential Drive, Jacksonville, Florida 32207.  This quiet park in a busy city neighborhood is home to a beloved 250 year old Southern live oak.

• Truman Little White House, 111 Front St., Key West, FL 33040.  Tel: 305-294-9911.  Florida's only presidential museum.  The 33rd President of the U.S. stayed here many times and it displays some of his memorabilia. 
• Universal Orlando Resort, 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819.  Tel: 407-363-8000.  The second largest theme park in Orlando, it consists of two parks:  Universal Studios Florida and Universal's Islands of Adventure. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a favorite attraction for the kids. There are also many individual resorts within Universal Studios.
• University of Tampa (Tampa Bay Hotel) Henry B. Plant Museum, 401 West Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606.  Tel: 813-254-1891.  The Henry B. Plant Museum is in the hotel and contains actual furnishings enjoyed by first guests to visit here.
• Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum , Space Coast Regional Airport, 6600 Tico Road, Titusville, Florida 32780. Tel: 321-268-1941. This museum focuses on war planes from the earliest days of aviation to the present day. Their collection includes more than 45 historic warbirds.
• Vizcaya Museum & Gardens 3251 S Miami Avenue, Miami, FL 33129.  Tel: 305-250-9133. The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is the former estate of James Deering of the Deering-McCormick International Harvester fortune. 
• Wakulla Springs State Park,  465 Wakulla Park Drive, Wakulla Springs, FL 32327.  Tel: 850-561-7276.  The constant 70-degree waters are a wonderful retreat on hot summer days.  You can also take a 45-minute riverboat tour where you will see alligators, manatee, and birds.  
• Walt Disney World Resort , Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, FL 32830. Tel: 407-939-5277. We cannot ignore the largest theme park in the world.  People come here from all over the world;  affordability is a matter of opinion.  The attractions here include the Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and more.  You will also find more hotels in this area than any other location you can visit in Florida.  Walt Disney World Resort also has four championship golf courses.
• Warm Mineral Springs,
• 12200 San Servando Ave, North Port, FL 34287. Tel: 941-426-1692. People come from all over the world to soak in the warm waters of this spring that supposedly has many healing minerals. 
• Webster Flea Markets, 516 NW Third Street, Webster, Florida 33596.  Tel: 352-793-9877. One of the largest flea markets in the world, this one if only open on Mondays.  Thousands of vendors and anything you can think of.

• Weeki Wachee Springs, 6131 Commercial Way, Weeki Wachee, FL 34646. Tel:352-592-5656.  An old attraction that features underwater mermaid shows and is now a state park with a water park attraction. 
• Wekiwa Springs State Park,  1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka, FL 32712.  Tel: 407-884-2009. This  has been a popular recreational spot for Orlando area residents and tourists for more than 100 years. It is so popular that on many days from May through October they have to close it when the maximum capacity of 250 cars has been reached.
• Wildlife Sanctuary of Northwest Florida, 105 North “S” St, Pensacola, FL 32505.  Tel: 850-433-9453.   Your visit to this wildlife sanctuary will include seeing about 100 animals that cannot be released. This sanctuary provides care each year to more than 3,000 injured or orphaned wild animals native to Florida.
• Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour, 312 East Morse Blvd, Winter Park, FL 32789. Tel: 407-644-4056. Several lakes in Winter Park are connected by scenic canals.  The pontoon boat guides know their stuff and show you a lot of historical places and natural things on your one hour cruise.  
• Withlacoochee State Trail, 3100 Old Florida City Road Inverness, FL 34450.  Tel: 352-726-0315 The trail is a 46 mile long path on abandoned railroad tracks that follows a route roughly parallel to the Withlacoochee River. The path is paved and is a great location to hike, bike, and skate.
• Wynwood Walls Wynwood Art District, Miami, FL. Tel: 305-799-3166.  The walls of the buildings in Wynwood are decorated by constantly changing murals by some of the world's most gifted and famous graffiti writers and street artists. 

• Ybor City Historic District 1600 East 8th Avenue, Tampa, FL 33605. Tel: 813-241-8838.  Known as Tampa’s Latin Quarter for over a century, Ybor City is an exotic blend of aromas, flavors, sights and sounds.
• Ziplines, Zip lining is a year-round outdoor activity made possible by Florida’s moderate climate. Ziplines are found in many playgrounds and theme parks, and in Florida a large number of them are located in natural settings where you can soar through the treetops above natural settings.   
• Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park, 1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL 33604. Tel: 813-935-9552.  The zoo is on 56 acres and includes many animal encounters.  Park zones are dedicated to Asia, Africa, Australia, and Florida.  More than 1,300 separate animals call it home. 
• Zoo World,  9008 Front Beach Road, Panama City Beach, Florida. 32407. Tel: 850-230-1243. The zoo specializes in conservation and has over 260 animals with numerous exhibits, programs, and performances in a tropical setting.  This is an interactive attraction where you can do various thing with the animals.

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Venice Beach

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Ringling Museum Complex

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Scenic & Serene: 12 Prettiest Beaches In Florida

• Florida boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the US, with pristine white sands, clear waters, and bird-watching opportunities.
• Marco Island's Tigertail Beach offers a mix of resorts, wildlife viewing, and boating adventures, making it a must-visit summer destination.
• From Delray Public Beach's clear waters and sandy shores to Clearwater Beach's inviting atmosphere and stunning sunsets, there's a beach in Florida for every vacationer.

With top-rated US tourist destinations like Walt Disney World in Orlando and Everglades National Park , Florida records millions of local and international tourists annually. But there's more to the Sunshine State than just these spots, as this recreational haven is home to some of the best beaches in the US , making it one of the most visited southeastern states in the United States.

Each of Florida's most beautiful beaches has a distinct charm, entrancing tourists who embark on a coastal adventure. But they're not all made equal. Pretty-wise, they offer more in the way of beauty than the Sunshine State's other serene shores. Plus, the absolute best of the state's seaside spots boast pristine white sands, sparkling clear waters, and bird-watching opportunities, which are shared similarities tourists should expect.

In any case, when spending a coastal vacation in the Southeastern United States, here are the prettiest and most scenic beaches in Florida that deserve recognition on every explorer's itinerary.

UPDATE: 2023/09/19 14:14 EST BY NICHOLAS MAYAMBA

Best Beaches In Florida: Expanded

With over 1,300 miles of shoreline, Florida is a beachgoer's dream come true, boasting unrivaled pieces of seaside real estate. There is no shortage of gorgeous beach towns with white powdery shores, and this refreshed article highlights two more of the prettiest beaches in Florida.

Related: 15 Top Beaches In The U.S. To Add To Your Bucket List

Tigertail Beach, Marco Island

This coastal piece of heaven, 20 miles from the charming city of Naples, Florida, lures beachgoers with its eclectic mix of pristine habitats and world-class resorts. Marco Island boasts a vibrant seafood scene, with local eateries serving sumptuous flavors to the delight of tourists. Among its multiple gorgeous beaches, Tigertail Beach stands out for its large cluster of resorts, wildlife viewing opportunities, and boating adventures. Whether looking to lounge on its silky smooth sandy beaches or dip in its clear toasty waters, Marco Island deserves a spot on every vacationer's must-visit summer destinations in Florida .

• Where : 480 Hernando Dr., Marco Island, FL 34145

Delray Public Beach, Delray Beach

Popularly referred to as Florida's "Village by the Sea," Delray Beach perfectly balances a small-town vibe and big-city entertainment. Although it houses respectable attractions like the Morikami Museum and the Wakodahatchee Wetlands, most visitors understandably gravitate towards the Delray Public Beach, which rewards them with azure clear waters, idyllic sandy shores, and fun underwater pursuits like snorkeling. Several quaint eateries and cute little shops along the shores give Delray Beach a vibrant atmosphere that gets even better after the sun sets, thanks to the city's buzzing nightlife.

• Address : 400 S Ocean Blvd, Delray Beach, FL 33483, United States

Fort Lauderdale Beach, Broward County

Florida boasts many scenic highlights, including the must-visit Fort Lauderdale Beach, a coastal paradise on its southeastern coast.

With thousands of positive reviews , thrill-seekers need no further proof that Fort Lauderdale Beach is one of the best Florida beaches to spend a day out in nature.

The beach offers plenty of exciting recreational activities and is near several other tourist spots. And, once tourists have worked up an appetite, they can go on a Riverwalk food tour , as there are several top-rated restaurants around this enchanting Florida beach destination.

• Where: 1100 A. Seabreeze Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316

Related: Top 14 Magnificent Beaches To Visit in Fort Lauderdale

Siesta Key Beach, Sarasota County

One of the best beaches in Florida , Siesta Key Beach is known for its turquoise waters, powdery white sand, and luxurious amenities. But that’s not all; this scenic beach boasts other jaw-dropping features that make it one of the nicest beaches in Florida to enjoy the state's serene coastlines.

While at Siesta Key Beach, tourists can explore Point of Rocks, a gorgeous geological formation from which they can spot various bird species, observe marine life, and catch the breathtaking sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.

• Where: 948 Beach Road, Siesta Key, FL 34242

Santa Rosa Beach, Walton County

Tourists are always looking for the most beautiful beaches in Florida to spend a memorable vacation along the captivating coastlines. Santa Rosa Beach fits that bill, so it is always populated with nature enthusiasts.

Despite its popularity, Santa Rosa Beach remains surprisingly peaceful, making for the perfect family vacation along the Emerald Coast of Florida .

Besides capturing breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico, tourists can enjoy various outdoor activities, from fishing to hiking. They can even explore the vibrant coastal communities only miles from the beach.

• Where: Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459, USA

St. Augustine Beach, St. Johns County

Even locals can attest to the stunning beauty of St. Augustine Beach — a must-see attraction in St. Augustine .

Featuring a serene stretch of soft, white sands, clear blue waters, and breathtaking natural wonders, it is no surprise that St. Augustine Beach is considered one of the most breathtaking beaches in Florida, even though it is as old as time.

This gorgeous beach also serves up iconic views of the Florida sunset, which tourists can capture when relaxing on its shores or embarking on a scenic drive along the coastline.

• Where: St Augustine Beach, FL 32080, USA

Related: The Ultimate Travel Guide To St. Augustine & What To Do In This Historic City

Destin Beach, Okaloosa County

Destin Beach is renowned for its natural beauty, which explains why both tourists and locals can always be seen exploring the area. This scenic beach is situated in the northwestern corner of Florida on the Gulf of Mexico.

With emerald green waters and dramatic sunsets, Destin gives the other headliners among the best beaches in Florida a tough challenge, as it has just the perfect combination of natural attractions to entice every tourist.

One spectacular thing about Destin is its diverse marine life, hence its title as the world's luckiest fishing village.

• Where: 720 Gulf Shore Dr, Destin, FL 32541, United States

Related: 15 Things To Do In Destin: Complete Guide To This Dreamy Florida Destination

Clearwater Beach, Pinellas County

Reputed as one of the prettiest beaches in Florida, Clearwater Beach (famous for its clear water, boardwalk, and nearby attractions) is an invitation for tourists to relax, unwind, and explore the scenic beauty of nature.

Although it is surrounded by other stunning natural attractions in its namesake town, it still stands out for its irresistible allure, with a Nation's #1 Beach in 2018 award to its name.

Tourists who take a day trip to Clearwater Beach will enjoy splashing into the clear waters, vibing along with talented street performers at dusk, or catching the most picturesque views of the Florida sunset from iconic spots around the beach.

• Where: Clearwater Beach, FL 33767

Related: 10 Most Beautiful Beach Hotels In Clearwater, Florida, You Should Book

Palm Beach, Palm Beach County

Palm Beach is one of the best beach towns in Florida, and it looks so clean that it appears almost surreal. This well-maintained beach town is dotted with world-class tourist attractions, making it well worth a visit.

Tourists can head into any of the shopping districts and museums around this resort town or head to the beach to soak up the sun. Alternatively, tourists can simply enjoy breathtaking sunrises and sunsets from iconic spots such as the Palm Beach Lake Trail, a popular trail that offers idyllic views of sparkling waters populated with marine life.

In particular, lovers of the underwater world and its creatures within will be glad to know that they can see sea turtles in Palm Beach, Florida .

• Where : Palm Beach, FL 33480

Related: Beachside Getaway: The Ultimate West Palm Beach Travel Guide & Things To Do There

Pensacola Beach, Escambia County

For decades, Pensacola has remained one of the most affordable beach destinations in Florida . An unincorporated area, Pensacola Beach is situated in the City of Pensacola , where it steadily gains popularity for its beautiful white sand beaches, considered by many as some of the top beaches in Florida.

Here, dolphin cruises take tourists around the beaches on a boat ride; this is one of the best days to explore the scenic beauty of these clear waters, as visitors can spot adorable penguins amid the waves.

• Where: Pensacola Beach Blvd, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561

Related: Panhandle & The Emerald Coast: The Ultimate Guide To Pensacola & Things To Do There

Honeymoon Island State Park, Pinellas County

Judging by the name of this enchanting state park, tourists know to expect a romantic setting. One of Florida's best beach destinations, the beautiful Honeymoon Island State Park boasts four miles of soft, white sand and tranquil waters.

The park is endowed with coastal dunes and lush pine forests, among other natural attractions, but none hypnotize tourists as the beach does.

With crystal-clear waters and diverse wildlife species for wildlife enthusiasts, couples can enjoy a romantic getaway here at one of the most stunning beaches in Florida.

• Where : #1 Causeway Blvd. Dunedin FL 34698

Related: Honeymoon Island: What To Do In Florida's Most-Loved Park

Pass-A-Grille Beach, Pinellas County

Pass-A-Grille Beach in Pinellas County also finds itself among the best beach destinations in Florida for coastal beauty. It gives tourists yet another reason to make a trip to the Southeastern United States.

Reputed as one of Florida's prettiest beaches, Pass-A-Grille Beach is a stunning coastal destination where tourists can catch colorful views of the Florida sunset.

Tourists who love shelling will definitely want to spend a day at Pass-A-Grille Beach, as this coastal gem is a treasure trove of seashells!

Adding to its allure as one of Florida's top beaches in terms of scenery and beauty, Pass-A-Grille Beach has a less touristy feel and is a perfect waterfront vacation for families who want to spend a day away from the crowds.

• Where: 155 Corey Ave, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706

Florida is home to theme parks, sharks, alligators, beaches, but it made ‘most boring’ list

Florida is boring?!

The Sunshine State is home to Disney World and Universal Studios and has hundreds of miles of beaches. We have the oldest city in the U.S. in our backyard and some of the richest people in the world .

To keep life interesting, we even have sharks and alligators .

Apparently, that's not enough.

According to a study by Solitaired , Florida is the fifth most boring state in the United States , based on an analysis of 66.7 million Google reviews of 3,290 popular tourist attractions around the world. The analysis was made to determine what locations were the least interesting.

Here's what the study discovered.

Takeaways from study on Top 100 most boring tourist sites around the world

According to Solitaired , key takeaways include:

• Branson Scenic Railway in Branson, Missouri, is the most boring attraction in the world.
• Museums comprise 33% of the Top 100 most boring attractions.
• Four LEGOLAND Discovery Centers are in the Top 25 most boring attractions worldwide.
• Georgia is the most boring state, with many attractions and extensive reviews indicating boredom.
• The U.S., Canada and Australia hold the top three spots for countries with the most boring tourist attractions. And yes, U.S. was No. 1.

Top 'most boring' tourist attractions in Florida

Here are the Florida locations ranked among the most boring tourist attractions around the world. The "boredom score" is on a scale from zero to five.

• No. 7: Museum of Science & Technology, Tampa. Score: 3.10
• No. 19: Phillip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science, Miami. Score: 2.40
• No. 21: Jungle Island, Miami. Score: 2.40
• No. 22: Skull Island: Reign of Kong, Universal Orlando theme park. Score: 2.40
• No. 23: Miami Seaquarium, Miami. Score: 2.30
• No. 35: Ripley's Believe It or Not! Orlando. Score: 2.20
• No. 46: Ripley's Believe It or Not! St. Augustine. Score: 2.10
• No. 56: WonderWorks, Orlando. Score: 2.0
• No. 100: Glazer Children's Museum, Tampa. Score: 1.80

Top 10 states with highest boredom score

"We ranked states based on how often attractions were called boring in reviews compared to the total number of attractions with any reviews labeling them boring in that state," Solitaired said. "By this metric, Georgia, Massachusetts, and Tennessee are the nation's top three boring states."

The "boredom score" is on a scale from zero to five.

• Georgia: 21 boring attractions. Boredom score: 5.0
• Massachusetts: 4 boring attractions. Boredom score: 4.1
• Tennessee: 49 boring attractions. Boredom score: 4.1
• Missouri: 33 boring attractions. Boredom score: 3.9
• Florida : 104 boring attractions. Boredom score: 3.5
• Texas: 72 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.8
• California: 99 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.7
• Nevada: 33 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.5
• Minnesota: 7 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.4
• Illinois: 23 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.3

How did Florida rank as 5th most boring state in US?

"With its 104 boring attractions, Florida might seem like the boredom capital at first glance ," Solitaired said.

"Yet, it only ranks as the fifth most boring state because each attraction garners very few yawns from visitors. Despite many attractions being labeled boring by reviewers, this sentiment is such a minority that Florida only pans out as the fifth most boring state."

Top 10 most boring tourist attractions in the US

• Branson Scenic Railway: Branson Missouri. Boredom score: 5.0
• lluminarium Atlanta: Atlanta, Georgia. Boredom score: 4.5
• Jurassic Jungle Boat Ride: Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Boredom score: 3.70
• Salem Witch Museum: Salem, Massachusetts. Boredom score: 3.40
• LEGO Discovery Center Atlanta: Atlanta, Georgia. Boredom score: 3.40
• Adler Planetarium: Chicago, Illinois. Boredom score: 3.30
• Museum of Science & Industry: Tampa. Boredom score: 3.10
• LEGOLAND Discovery Center Dallas/Fort Worth: Dallas, Texas. Boredom score: 2.90
• Museum of Ice Cream: New York City. Boredom score: 2.50
• The Shepherd of the Hills: Branson, Missouri. Boredom score: 2.50

➤ Want more? Here's the most boring tourist attraction in every state

Around the world: 8 of Top 10 boring tourist attractions in US

Eight of the Top 10 most boring tourist attractions are in the U.S., according to the Solitaired analysis:

• Museum of Science & Industry: Tampa . Boredom score: 3.10
• Shrek's Adventure London. London, England. Boredom score: 2.90
• LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Toronto. Vaughan, Canada. Boredom score: 2.80

➤ More boring content: The most boring tourist attraction in every country

Methodology used by Solitaired in ranking attractions

Solitaired, an online gaming platform that creates classic games — like Solitaire — with a focus on improving mental acuity, memory and processing speed.  

In March 2024, Solitaired "analyzed 66.7 million Google reviews of 3,290 popular tourist attractions worldwide , spanning 384 cities across 71 countries.

"We focused our analysis on keyword mentions indicative of a bored tourist. Those keywords were "boring," "bored," "bore," "boredom," "tiresome," "dull," "drab," "lackluster," "lifeless," "mediocre," and "tedious.

"We ranked the attractions by the frequency with which tourists mentioned boredom-related keywords, comparing the mentions to the total reviews for each spot."

Attractions with fewer than 2,000 total reviews were removed.

23 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Miami, FL

Written by Lana Law Updated Mar 21, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Miami is one of South Florida's premier vacation destinations, with beautiful beaches , great weather, history, culture, sports, and entertainment. Downtown Miami, separated from the Atlantic Ocean by the Biscayne Bay and Miami Beach, is a modern metropolis and cultural treasure trove.

From the museums to the streets of Little Havana , you can always find plenty of things to do in Miami. Across the bay, Miami Beach , with its Art Deco District, fantastic stretch of beachfront, and fun vibe, is a must-see in the area. Nearby, Everglades National Park is one of several popular day trip destinations from Miami .

Plan your time and discover the best places to visit with our list of the top tourist attractions in Miami.

1. Miami Beach

2. art deco historic district, 3. south beach, 4. vizcaya museum and gardens, 5. everglades national park, 6. bayside marketplace, 7. little havana and calle ocho, 8. bayfront park, 9. perez art museum, 10. miami seaquarium, 11. phillip and patricia frost museum of science, 12. fairchild tropical botanical gardens, 13. bill baggs cape florida state park, 14. hobie beach, 15. zoo miami, 16. deering estate at cutler, 17. wynwood walls street art, 18. miami children's museum, 19. key biscayne and crandon park, 20. basketball games at ftx arena, 21. venetian pool, 22. coral castle, 23. freedom tower, where to stay in miami for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to miami, best time to visit miami, fl.

Located on a barrier island and connected to the mainland by a series of bridges, Miami Beach is a mix of quiet neighborhoods, lively entertainment-focused areas, and long stretches of soft-sand beaches. The southernmost portion of the island is the historic and action-packed area known as South Beach, and this is where you'll find many of the top attractions and things to do.

One of the biggest attractions in Miami Beach is the Art Deco Historic District , with pastel buildings from the 1930s and early 1940s sporting classic neon signs. An expensive tourist district, this area features numerous beachfront restaurants, shops, hotels, and plenty of sunbathing opportunities.

The main street in this area is Ocean Drive , a section of road located along the oceanfront and home to some beautiful Art Deco buildings. Ocean Drive was closed to all but pedetrian traffic in May of 2020 but in 2022 opened to one-way vehicle traffic from 15th Street to 5th Street.

One block inland, running parallel with Ocean Drive, is Collins Avenue . Collins Avenue is actually State Road A1A and is the main street in Miami Beach, joining numerous neighborhoods.

If you are looking to stay in this area, see our selection of recommended luxury, mid-range, and budget hotels .

Even if you have no interest in the beach, the Art Deco Historic District is worth a trip out to Miami Beach. This architectural style, popular in the 1930s and 40s, dominates the trendy South Beach neighborhood .

These uniquely designed buildings, in a range of pastel colors and displaying large neon signs, were built following a devastating hurricane that struck in 1926. Many are hotels and restaurants, most of which have been beautifully restored. Along some of the main streets, awnings on the lower level of these buildings provide shade for outdoor dining areas. Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue are the two main streets through the area.

If you are interested in staying in one of these historic gems, many of the Art Deco buildings still function as hotels and have much more character than modern hotels. Some good options are the National Hotel Miami Beach or the more moderately priced Hotel Breakwater South Beach .

Located at the southern end of Miami Beach is the always action-packed neighborhood of South Beach. This is what many people have in mind when they plan a beach vacation to Miami. The wide section of beach that fronts the ocean along Ocean Drive is one of the big attractions. Often full of people in summer, this is the most popular beach in Miami and one of the top beaches in Florida .

This is a place to see and be seen, but also a place to swim and enjoy the shallow waters, escape the heat, and soak up the sun. A paved walk is set well back from the beach, and in behind is Ocean Drive. Art Deco buildings line the streets and offer luxury hotel rooms and a good mix of dining options.

South Beach is home to several popular festivals and events held throughout the year. By day, it's a great place to wander around or hang out on the beach. At night it comes alive with dining and nightlife.

This National Historic Landmark, set on 28 acres, was the luxurious winter home of 20th-century industrialist, James Deering. Built in 1916, the mansion features 34 rooms arranged around a central courtyard.

It took more than 1,100 workers and craftsmen to complete the Vizcaya project, many of whom were brought over from Europe to ensure authenticity in design.

The Italian Renaissance-style villa is filled with an impressive collection of European furniture and decorative arts from the 15th to 19th centuries.

The grounds and gardens contain beautiful Italian and French fountains, pools, and sculptures. A breakwater at the base of the steps leading into Biscayne Bay is an ornately carved barge, featuring female figures.

Address: 3251 South Miami Avenue, Miami, Florida

Official site: http://vizcaya.org

Everglades National Park, just a short drive from Miami, protects one of Florida's most unique natural features. These swamplands, covering about 1.5 million acres, are home to alligators, crocodiles, snakes, and birds. This whole area is essentially a shallow river flowing out to the ocean.

Within the park is an informative Visitors Center, as well as walking trails and boardwalks for wildlife viewing. One of the most popular walking trails in the park is the Anhinga Trail , which leaves from the Royal Palm Visitor Center. This trail is less than a mile long but leads through terrain where visitors are likely to see alligators and other animals. This trail is wheelchair accessible and non-strenuous.

One of the most enjoyable ways to experience the Everglades is on an airboat tour. These high-speed boat trips take visitors out into the marshes and streams to see alligators and other wildlife. The Miami Everglades Airboat Adventure with Transport half-day tour provides transport from your hotel to the park, and includes a 30-minute airboat ride, a live alligator show at the Everglades Alligator Farm, and transport back to your hotel.

Bayside Marketplace is a large outdoor-style mall with more than 120 specialty and tourist shops, numerous cafes and restaurants, and daily live entertainment. Visitors will find some well-known chain stores, as well as many unique, one-of-a-kind places. The marketplace draws locals as well as tourists.

As may be evident in the name, the mall is located along Miami's waterfront, looking out over docks and boats. Many people come here simply to soak up the atmosphere. Tour boats leave from here, visiting locations around Biscayne Bay. There is also a water taxi service to Miami Beach and downtown hotels located in the area.

A brand new attraction has risen at Bayside Market: the Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel . Towering 200 feet in the air, this giant Ferris wheel has 42 climate-controlled passenger gondolas plus one glass-floored VIP version. The views out over Biscayne Bay and Miami you'll see during your 15-minute ride are spectacular.

Address: 401 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, Florida

Official site: http://www.baysidemarketplace.com/

Little Havana, the Cuban district of Miami , isn't known for its wealth of tourist attractions but more for its distinctive cultural scene. Restaurants and specialty food shops line the streets, and Latin music drifts through the air. Locals socialize in the open spaces.

Murals grace the walls of buildings, showing important Cuban figures and scenes of daily life. Calle Ocho is the main thoroughfare running through the district and home to much of the activity, but Little Havana spreads well beyond, into the surrounding streets and avenues. For people-watching, the area offers a great deal of entertainment. And, of course, this is the place to visit for Cuban cuisine or perhaps, a surprise to most visitors, a great haircut at one of the numerous barber shops.

The Calle Ocho Festival , held in March, is a celebration of Cuban culture and the largest of its kind in the world. Over the years this street festival has expanded to include more Latin American cultures and is now a great way to experience Latin American music and Caribbean cuisine.

Bayfront Park, on the east side of Biscayne Boulevard, is a 32-acre green space, adjacent to the Bayside Marketplace. The park has several interesting monuments and sculptures. One of the unique features is the electronically controlled Pepper Fountain.

Other highlights include the Challenger Memorial , commemorating the crew of the Challenger spacecraft; the Light Tower , an amphitheater used for musical performances of all kinds; and a children's playground. Locals often come here just to run or walk on the paved trails.

A waterfront trail extends from Bayfront Marketplace to the park past the FPL Solar Amphitheater. Near the park are other interesting attractions including the Freedom Tower, the Kaseya Center, and Maurice A. Ferré Park.

Address: 301 North Biscayne Blvd, Miami, Florida

Official site: http://www.bayfrontparkmiami.com/

The Perez Art Museum, known locally as the PAMM, occupies a section of prime real estate on Miami's waterfront. Inside an architecturally stunning building designed by Herzog & de Mueron is housed artwork from the 20th and 21st centuries.

The museum has been celebrating art from local and international artists for over 25 years. In addition to the permanent collection, the PAMM hosts a regular procession of temporary exhibits. The interior of the building is almost a work of art in itself. Light, airy spaces along with incredible views out over Biscayne Bay invoke a sense of calm and introspection, helping to aid in your appreciation of the artwork. You'll find the permanent exhibits are primarily displayed on the first and second floors; the temporary exhibits are usually on the second floor.

The PAMM has a well-regarded on-site restaurant named Verde. Settle in at a table either inside or outside on the expansive patio and enjoy a light lunch while you soak up the fantastic views out over the water.

Save a few dollars on parking (flat rate of $15) by combining a visit here with a stop in at the Phillip and Patricia Museum of Science located right next door.

Address: 1103 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, Florida

Official site: https://www.pamm.org/

Located on the Rickenbacker Causeway on the way to Key Biscayne, the Miami Seaquarium is a good place to take the family for an afternoon of entertainment and education. This aquatic facility is home to a wide variety of sea creatures, including killer whales, dolphins, stingrays, seals, and penguins among many, many others.

The Seaquarium offers a variety of animal shows; however, the killer whale and dolphin shows are currently suspended as of writing. But don't despair, Salty the Sealion is still performing! If you'd like to get up close and personal, animal encounters are available for an additional fee. These include three options for interacting with dolphins, one with penguins, and the opportunity to swim with seals.

In addition to the shows and animal encounters, the Seaquarium has an extensive number of educational animal exhibits and an area devoted to marine conservation.

Note that a $10 fee is charged for parking in addition to the cost of entry to the Seaquarium.

Address: 4400 Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami, Florida

Official site: https://www.miamiseaquarium.com/

Ideal for a rainy day or if you are looking for something to do off the beach, the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is jam-packed with interesting things for all ages.

The museum is divided into four areas: The aquarium is all about the ocean, with a focus on South Florida. The planetarium helps bring an understanding of the solar system through interactive displays and shows. In the North and West wings, other permanent and traveling exhibits help to explain the world we live in.

Across all areas, displays are interactive and fun, and the viewing areas in the aquarium are exceptional.

Address: 1101 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, Florida

Official Site: https://www.frostscience.org/

Miami is a green city. Lush tropical vegetation grows here with abandon, nourished by the frequent rain, warm temperatures, and sunny days. One of the best places to see the wonderful show that Mother Nature puts on is at the Fairchild Tropical Botanical Gardens. Originally founded in 1938, the entire organization is now run by passionate volunteers and is a first-class operation.

Extensive grounds are spread out over 83 acres, allowing you to walk for miles. If that sounds a bit daunting, take one of the 45 minute-long tram tours instead. The tours are led by a knowledgeable guide and provide a fascinating insight to the gardens. Even if you are only slightly interested in plants, you'll find something interesting in one of the 27 exhibits and collections.

Owing to the size of the gardens, it's important to plan out your visit. Most of the attractions are in the southwest area of the gardens, reached by walking straight to the tram stop area from the main entrance and then turning right. Along the way, look down at the pathway to see all manner of leaves imprinted in the cement. This pathway will take you past interesting viewpoints and the entrance to the Richard H. Simmons Rainforest area. Be sure to take a stroll through this area, where mist snakes along the pathway, and rain showers take place among the plants.

Beyond the rainforest area are the Clinton Family Conservatory and the Wings of the Tropics exhibit. Enter the building, and find yourself in a wonderland of colorful butterflies and tropical flowers. Have your camera ready to try to snap a picture of the stunning blue morpho butterfly.

Spread throughout the gardens are 11 sculptures, including two by the acclaimed glass artists Dale Chihuly. A good spot to grab a light lunch is the Glasshouse Café. Tables are spread among the greenery, and it's a pleasant spot to refresh and recharge.

Unless you've ventured further afield, you may find yourself walking back past one of the more unusual plant displays in the gardens: the Lougheed Spiny Forest of Madagascar. Large trees with spikes definitely discourage any touching! Nearby is a giant baobab tree dating from the mid 1930s, planted by the founder, David Fairchild.

Address: 10901 Old Cutler Road, Miami, Florida

Official site: https://fairchildgarden.org/

Miami is fortunate in the fact that it has one of Florida's most beautiful state parks only a bridge ride away. Saved from development by Bill Baggs in the 1960s, this perfectly preserved wilderness is a perfect place for a family beach day trip. One of the main attractions is the 1.25-mile-long soft-sand beach, providing amazing views out over the Atlantic Ocean.

The park is long and relatively narrow, and where you park depends on what you'd like to do. If you just want to hit the beach, park near access #6. If you'd like to visit the beach and visit the historic lighthouse, park at access #7. Fishing more your thing? Park at the far end of the road in the parking lot by the washrooms, and walk out to the fishing docks or set up on the seawall.

The park is also a migratory bird hot spot. To have a chance at seeing birds, walk Robin's Birding Trail.

Address: 1200 South Crandon Blvd, Key Biscayne, Florida

Official site: https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/bill-baggs-cape-florida-state-park

One thing you learn pretty quickly about Miami is that it can be an expensive place. Road tolls, restaurant prices, park and attraction admissions – the costs can add up quite quickly. For a delightful beach spot that's gentle on the pocketbook, head to Hobie Beach.

It's easily located on the Rickenbacker Causeway, and parking here is, amazingly, free! Soft white sand and gentle waves (if any) make this one of the most accessible beaches in the area. Hobie Beach is dog friendly – pooches can run leash-free here on the sand and in the water.

Note that Hobie Beach exists in two locations. The first location you come to as you cross the causeway is the area that rents sailboats and is popular with the windsurfing and sailing crowd. The beach here is narrow and rocky. Farther along is the main beach area described above.

Zoo Miami houses more than 3,000 wild animals, including 40 endangered species. Unlike many traditional zoos, animals here are grouped with other species they would normally co-exist with peacefully in the wild, and kept in settings similar to their natural habitats.

One of the most enjoyable experiences at the zoo is feeding the giraffes. Kids will be amazed as these gentle giants reach down with their long necks to pluck a treat from their hands.

This is the only zoo in the continental United States located in a subtropical climate. More than 1,000 species of trees and plants can also be found on the grounds, including a large collection of orchids.

Children will find plenty of entertainment options. If they are bored with the animals, they can head over to the play areas and enjoy some splashing around at the water-themed play area.

Address: 1 Zoo Blvd, 12400 SW 152nd Street, Miami, Florida

Official site: http://www.zoomiami.org/

This former home of Charles Deering is a 444-acre estate, protecting globally endangered pine rockland habitat, as well as coastal tropical hardwood rockland hammocks, mangrove forests, salt marshes, and a coastal dune island.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places , Deering Estate at Cutler is home to the Richmond Cottage, which served as a hotel, as well as historical buildings dating from 1896 to 1922, and an American Indian burial ground dating from 1500.

Charles Deering was an art collector, who, along with his brother James, accumulated a great number of works by the Old Masters. Deering himself also painted, and some of his works are on display here. The Artist Village at the estate has become an important cultural center, featuring art and artists programs.

Address: 16701 SW 72nd Avenue, Miami, Florida

Official site: http://www.deeringestate.org/

In the warehouse district of Wynwood, the formerly drab exterior warehouse walls have been transformed into colorful pieces of art. The Wynwood Walls, plastered in street art, or what most people think of as graffiti, have brought new life to this area.

Brought about by Tony Goldman in 2009, the district has attracted big names in the world of street art from across North America and around the world. Since it was started, more than 80,000 square feet of wall space have been graced with paintings in this unique artform.

The entire area is full of colorful street art. Wander around on your own, or for greater insight into the murals, sign up online for a guided tour. If you want to see famous name artists, and purchase prints, visit the Wynwood Walls Museum. Inside this gated area, you'll find 35 walls, retail shops, and galleries. This area used to be free, but now an admission fee is charged.

Official site: http://www.thewynwoodwalls.com

Always a fun outing for children, the Miami Children's Museum is housed in a colorful and creatively designed facility with more than 56,000 square feet of space. Educational and entertaining exhibits are designed to appeal to children's curiosity and creativity.

Fourteen themed galleries revolve around arts, culture, community, and communication, and four outdoor exhibits allow kids a chance to play and enjoy time outside. Some of the exhibits are definitely Miami themed: the ability to explore a cruise ship and the ability to explore the Port of Miami.

Address: 980 Macarthur Causeway, Miami, Florida

Official site: http://www.miamichildrensmuseum.org/

South, beyond Miami Beach and over the Rickenbacker Causeway, is Key Biscayne, a small community with lovely beaches and beautiful parks. Of particular note is Crandon Park with an offshore reef that leaves the shoreline protected from big waves and perfect for swimming.

The park has a Family Amusement Center, making it particularly popular with families, and a Nature Center. There is generally ample parking, good facilities, chair rentals available, and lifeguards on duty.

On windy days, you may see kiteboarders ripping across the waves, being towed by their colorful kites.

The FTX Arena, formerly the American Airlines Arena, is the home of the NBA's Miami Heat . It is also the main venue for large concerts and other special events, including top-name singers and performers. It can hold more than 19,000 people.

The structure itself opened in 1999, has been awarded the Leed Green Building Certification for being an energy-efficient building. The arena stands out prominently on Biscayne Bay in downtown Miami.

Address: 601 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, Florida

Official site: https://www.ftxarena.com/

If you become tired of the beach, or the wind is up, or you are just looking for freshwater to swim in, head to the historic Venetian Pool. Located in the beautiful city of Coral Gables, just south of Miami, the pool dates from the early 1920s. The water in the pools is as pure as it gets. Fed from an underground spring, the water is crystal clear and refreshing. Each day, the 820,000-gallon pool is drained and refilled by the spring.

The pool is a byproduct of a former quarrying operation that used the coral dug from here for the construction of homes in Coral Gables. The area surrounding the pool is like a scene from Venice, Italy. Bridges, towers, and small plazas surround the pool, giving it a very European look and feel, while caves, grottoes, and two waterfalls provide hours of enjoyment for children and adults alike.

The pool is open from the start of February until the end of November each year. Ample free parking is available across the street in the public lot.

Address: 2702 de Soto Boulevard, Coral Gables, Florida

Official site: https://www.coralgables.com/venetianpool

The Coral Castle is the result of one man's 28 years of carving, using his own home-made tools. This incredible creation, made of limestone, was built by Edward Leedskalnin between 1923 and 1951. He kept his methods private and would not allow anyone to watch him work, leaving many people to wonder how he did it.

Today, you can tour the property and see the most famous structure, a giant stone gate, which opens effortlessly with the touch of a finger, as well as carvings that include stone tables and chairs, unique figures, and other pieces.

Address: 28655 South Dixie Highway, Miami, Florida

Official site: http://coralcastle.com

One of the most striking buildings on Biscayne Boulevard, Freedom Tower displays a "wedding-cake" style. Built in 1925, it is one of the oldest skyscrapers in the southeastern United States, and served for many years as the headquarters of the Miami Daily News.

Its name comes from its role as the immigration-processing center for hundreds of thousands of Cuban refugees who arrived in the 1960s. Today, it stands as a tribute to Cuban immigration and is used, in part, as a contemporary art museum.

Address: 600 North Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, Florida

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/history/nr/travel/american_latino_heritage/Freedom_Tower.html

Miami's main tourist area is Miami Beach, with its lovely soft-sand beaches, Art Deco buildings, and vibrant atmosphere. There are all kinds of hotels here, from small, quaint boutique hotels in landmark buildings to the large chain hotels. Most of the hotels have pools and are within easy walking distance of the ocean and a variety of great restaurants.

Luxury Hotels :

• With 600 feet of prime beachfront property and occupying an entire city block on Collins Ave, 1 Hotel South Beach is one of the trendiest luxury properties in town. The hotel has 426 rooms and suites, and many feature expansive views from floor-to-ceiling windows that face the Atlantic Ocean. The décor is maritime themed and makes use of reclaimed driftwood in furnishings. There are four swimming pools on-site, including the largest rooftop pool in South Beach. There are a number of restaurants with a healthy focus, and guests have access to rides in the hotel's Tesla vehicles within a three-mile radius. Pets are also welcome to stay.
• Right on the trendiest section of South Beach, The Setai, Miami Beach is a stunning, Asian-inspired luxury resort that is popular with couples on a romantic getaway. It's an all suite hotel, and these begin studio sized and go all the way up to a four-bedroom penthouse. Expect high-end decor like hand-crafted Duxiana beds and high thread-count, Italian sheets. There are also in-room espresso machines and rainfall showers in large baths. The Setai also boasts a host of amenities, including a posh spa, three swimming pools, and sun-loungers and umbrellas on the beach. There are also multiple restaurants on-site. Try Jaya for Asian-inspired fare and The Ocean Grill for international cuisine.
• Literally in the middle of the Miami skyline with views of the Miami River, Biscayne Bay, and downtown from the balconies attached to every room and suite, the just remodeled Kimpton EPIC Hotel is another top luxury sleep. The décor is urban contemporary, and we love the floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as the comfy beds with quality linens. The Kimpton is known for being super dog-friendly, and there is never a pet deposit to stay. Also noteworthy are two on-site restaurants: Area 31 with outdoor patio seating and Zuma on the ground floor. An on-site spa and fitness center and two swimming pools with cabanas that can be reserved complete the amenities picture.
• In the heart of the Brickell neighborhood in downtown Miami, the Four Seasons Hotel Miami is a popular choice for families seeking a luxury resort stay. The resort even doubles as a Latin American art gallery, hosting a multi-million-dollar collection that is exhibited throughout. Child-focused amenities here include a kids' club with organized activities and a children's section in one of the two rooftop swimming pools. Adults can check out a class at the on-site Equinox fitness center or book a massage at The Spa, both located on the hotel's fourth floor.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• If you want to be near South Beach but can't afford to pay a fortune, then try the boutique Urbanica The Meridian Hotel , which offers a more affordable, luxe experience. The hotel in the hip South of Fifth neighborhood in Miami Beach features minimalist design, with white and beige hues, and is known for its personalized service.
• Another upmarket, mid-range choice is the Marriott Stanton South Beach , which is right on the beach. Set at the southern side of South Beach's Ocean Drive, it is a kid-friendly property but can also work for couples on a budget. There are two swimming pools and a hot tub on-site, as well as a spa with a sauna and a modern gym. There are a few dining options as well, including a good restaurant fronting the sea.
• It is usually more affordable to stay in downtown Miami than Miami Beach, and these days the downtown area around Brickell, where the Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton - Miami-Brickell Downtown is located has plenty to keep you occupied. The good-value hotel has a classy vibe and even features its own contemporary art collection. Other perks include a free breakfast and swimming pool.

Budget Hotels :

• Even budget hotels in Miami Beach tend to be pricey unless you're visiting in the super low season. Try the Hotel Shelley for a quality budget sleep in an Art Deco building right on Collins Ave. The rooms have minimalist design and marble baths.
• The Element Miami International Airport is right by the airport, but Miami's airport is not inconveniently located to get around the city. This hotel offers renovated rooms, with small kitchens, and an outdoor pool. The free shuttle is handy for late or early flights.
• Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: To see the sights of Miami at your own pace, it doesn't get any easier than a Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour . The three routes hit all the major destinations, including South Beach, Downtown Miami, Coral Gables, and Little Havana, with a total of 40 stops to choose from.
• Sightseeing, Cruise, and Everglades Tour : If you really want to make the most of your time in Miami, the most comprehensive and convenient way to see and experience the highlights is on a Miami Combo Tour: City Sightseeing, Biscayne Bay Cruise, and Everglades Airboat Ride . This tour checks off everything but the beach, and it's all wrapped up in a one-day tour. The trip includes a narrated coach tour through the city; a cruise on the beautiful, clear waters of Biscayne Bay; and an airboat ride through the Florida Everglades.
• Visit Key West : Take an organized Key West Day Trip to see the famous bridges that link the Keys, spend an afternoon wandering around Key West, or add on a glass-bottom boat tour, a snorkeling cruise, hop-on-hop-off tour of Key West, or parasailing. This 12-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off at your Miami hotel, bus transportation to Key West, and plenty of free time to see the sights.

If you're planning a vacation packed with plenty of sunshine, endless entertainment, and festivals galore, the best time of year to visit Miami is spring .

March through May are considered high season (as are the winter months of December through February), which means you should expect crowds of tourists splaying themselves on Miami's best beaches , as well as increased rates on things like hotel rooms and local attractions. You may also need to call in advance to book a dinner reservation.

During spring, you can expect beautiful weather. With highs in the high 70s and low 80s Fahrenheit, it's not too hot, nor is it too humid. Plus, spring offers a slew of events to keep visitors busy. From tennis tournaments to outdoor concerts to food festivals, you won't be lacking in fun things to do.

This time of year is also free of the intense rains and pesky insects that plague the sticky summer months, as well as the hurricanes that hit during late fall.

A word of advice: Avoid spring break ; unless you're a fan of all day (and all night) parties, screaming youth, and bikini contests. Prices go up during this popular holiday and so does the noise level!

Easter is another time to steer clear of Miami if you're hoping to avoid crowds and keep your costs low.

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