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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

St. George Island

Panama City Beach

West Palm Beach

Delray Beach

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The state of Florida is diverse in its gifts, with everything from theme parks and Latin and Caribbean culture to wildlife, wetlands, and, of course, multitudes of beaches.

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, attractions, must-see attractions.

Kennedy Space Center

Space Coast

Within this 140,000-acre campus, the dreams of some of the greatest scientific minds of the 20th century took flight all the way to the moon and back…

Fairchild Tropical Garden

If you need to escape Miami’s constant motion, consider a green day in one of the country’s largest tropical botanical gardens. A butterfly grove,…

Greater Orlando

Legoland is a joy. With manageable crowds and lines, and no bells and whistles, this lakeside theme park maintains an old-school vibe – you don't have to…

Wizarding World of Harry Potter

You don't have to be a huge Harry Potter fan to appreciate the genius of the magnificently whimsical Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which invites…

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

Key Biscayne

If you don’t make it to the Florida Keys, come to this park for a taste of their unique island ecosystems. The 494-acre space is a tangled clot of…

Biltmore Hotel

In the most opulent neighborhood of one of the showiest cities in the world, the Biltmore is the greatest of the grand hotels of the American Jazz Age. If…

Universal Studios

Divided geographically by region-specific architecture and ambience and fabulously themed as a Hollywood backlot, Universal Studios' simulation-heavy…

Bayfront Park

Downtown Miami

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13 of the best things to do in florida.

Ginnie Springs

Northeast Florida

Of the two springs in High Springs, Ginnie Springs is a little older and more developed than Poe Springs, with a handful of campsites ($22) on hand and…

Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens

Japanese immigrant and pineapple farmer Sukeji 'George' Morikami, a member of the original Yamato settlement of Delray, donated his spectacularly…

Wynwood Walls

Wynwood & the Design District

In the midst of rusted warehouses and concrete blah, there's a pastel-and-graffiti explosion of urban art. Wynwood Walls is a collection of murals and…

Bayside Marketplace

Just north of Bayfront Park, this touristy shopping and entertainment hub on the waterfront has chain stores like the Gap, Victoria's Secret, Crocs and…

Lion Country Safari

West Palm Beach

The first cageless drive-through safari in the country, this incredible animal park puts you in the cage (ie your car) as 900 creatures roam freely,…

Walt Disney World®

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Nature Conservancy’s Disney Wilderness Preserve

Central Florida

Hidden south of Orlando’s sprawl, this undeveloped and little-visited 11,500-acre preserve is the result of laws that required Walt Disney World® to…

Disney’s BoardWalk

Walt Disney World

Far less harried and crowded than Disney Springs, the very small Disney's BoardWalk area across from Epcot and along Crescent Lake echoes waterfront…

Museum of Florida History

Florida Panhandle

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Disney Springs

The primary entertainment district in Walt Disney World® – with shops, restaurants and bars, live music and a movie theater – stretches along the…

Florida State University

A liberal-arts school of more than 35,000 undergraduate and graduate students, Florida State University specializes in sciences, computing and performing…

Southernmost Point

The most-photographed spot on the island, this red-and-black buoy isn’t even the southernmost point in the USA (that’s in the off-limits naval base around…

Disney's BoardWalk Inn

This resort embodies the seaside charm of the 1930s Atlantic City Boardwalk in its heyday, with a waterfront the color of saltwater taffy, tandem bicycles…

Mallory Square

Take all those energies, subcultures and oddities of Keys life and focus them into one torchlit, family-friendly (but playfully edgy), sunset-enriched…

Florida Museum of Natural History

The highlight of this excellent natural-history museum is the expansive Butterfly Rainforest (adult/child $13/6). Hundreds of butterflies from 55 to 65…

In high season, Clearwater's long stretch of smooth, white sand becomes a scrum of sun-baked coeds and extended families. Hotels, resorts and raucous…

National Naval Aviation Museum

A visit to Pensacola is not complete without a trip to this enormous collection of military aircraft muscle and artifacts. Adults and children alike will…

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

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Manatee Viewing Center

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Las Olas Riverfront

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Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Things to Know

If you’re planning that big trip to Florida, read our tips on planning, etiquette and health and safety considerations in the Sunshine State.

Transportation

Whether you crisscross the state by plane, hop on a train along the southwest coast or Key-hop via water taxi, there are many ways to get around Florida.

Money and Costs

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With natural wonders, world-famous attractions and sunshine aplenty, Florida is perfect for road-tripping. Here are the best routes in the Sunshine State.

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Brochure images of tanning tourists and Mickey Mouse give an inaccurate and incomplete picture of Florida. Although the aptly nicknamed “Sunshine State” is indeed devoted to the tourist trade, it’s also among the least-understood parts of the USA. Away from its overexposed resorts lie forests and rivers, deserted strands filled with wildlife, and vibrant cities within reach of primeval swamps. Contrary to the popular retirement-community image, new Floridians tend to be a younger, more energetic breed, while Spanish-speaking enclaves provide close ties to Latin America and the Caribbean.

Brief history

East coast florida, everglades national park, when to go: florida’s weather, orlando and the theme parks travel guide, the panhandle, west coast florida.

The essential stop is cosmopolitan, half-Latin Miami. A simple journey south from here brings you to the Florida Keys, a hundred-mile string of islands known for sport fishing, coral-reef diving and the sultry town of Key West, legendary for its sunsets and liberal attitude. Back on the mainland, west from Miami stretch the easily accessible Everglades, a water-logged sawgrass plain filled with alligators, a symbol of the state that can be found on college campuses (well, as a game mascot, anyway) and innumerable billboards. Much of Florida’s east coast is heavily built-up – a side effect of the migration of so-called “sunbirds” seeking to escape the cold climes of the northeast USA. The residential stranglehold is loosened further north, where the Kennedy Space Center launches NASA shuttles. Further along, historical St Augustine stands as the longest continuously occupied European settlement in the US.

In central Florida the terrain turns green, though it’s no rural idyll, thanks in mainly to Orlando and Walt Disney World, which sprawl out across the countryside. From here it’s just a skip west to the towns and beaches of the Gulf Coast, and somewhat further north to the forests of the Panhandle, Florida’s link with the Deep South.

The first European sighting of Florida, just six years after Christopher Columbus reached the New World, is believed to have been made by John and Sebastian Cabot in 1498. At the time, the area’s one hundred thousand inhabitants formed several distinct tribes: the Timucua across northern Florida, the Calusa around the southwest and Lake Okeechobee, the Apalachee in the Panhandle and the Tequesta along the southeast coast.

In 1513, a Spaniard, Juan Ponce de León, sighted land during Pascua Florida, Spain’s Easter celebration; he named what he saw La Florida, or “Land of Flowers”. Eight years later he returned, the first of several Spanish incursions prompted by rumours of gold hidden in the north of the region. When it became clear that Florida did not hold stunning riches, interest waned, and it wasn’t until 1565 that conquistador Pedro Menéndez de Avilés founded St Augustine. In 1586, St Augustine was razed by a British naval bombardment led by Francis Drake, and the ensuing bloody confrontation for control was eventually settled when the British captured the crucial Spanish possession of Havana, Cuba; Spain willingly parted with Florida to get it back. By this point, indigenous Floridians had been largely wiped out by disease. The Native American population that was left largely comprised disparate tribes that had arrived from the north, collectively known as the Seminoles.

Following American Independence, Florida once more reverted to Spain. In 1814, the US general (and future president) Andrew Jackson – with the intention of taking the region – marched south from Tennessee, killing hundreds of Native Americans and triggering the First Seminole War. Following the war, in 1819, Spain ceded Florida to the US, in return for American assumption of $5 million of Spanish debt. Not long after, Jackson was sworn in as Florida’s first American governor, and Tallahassee selected as the new administrative centre.

Eleven years later, the Act of Indian Removal decreed that all Native Americans in the eastern US should be transferred to reservations in the Midwest. Most Seminole were determined to stay, which ignited the Second Seminole War; the Native Americans were steadily driven south, away from the fertile lands of central Florida and into the Everglades, where they eventually agreed to remain. Florida became the 27th state on March 3, 1845, around the same time that the nascent railroad system first brought prosperity to the area.

At the beginning of the twentieth century, the country’s newspapers extolled the curative virtues of Florida’s climate, and northern speculators invested their fortunes. These early efforts to promote Florida as a tourist destination brought in the wintering rich: the likes of Henry Flagler and Henry Plant extended their railroads and opened luxury resorts here. After World War I, everyone wanted a piece of Florida, and chartered trains brought in thousands of eager buyers. But most deals were only as solid as the paper they were written on, and in 1926 the banks began to default. The Wall Street Crash then made paupers of the millionaires whose investments had helped shape the state.

What saved Florida was World War II. During the war, thousands of troops arrived to guard the coastline, providing a taste of Florida that would entice many to return; postwar, the government expanded its facilities in and around Jacksonville, Tampa and Pensacola, bringing in thousands of residents and billions of investment dollars. Furthermore, in the mid-Sixties, the state government bent over backwards to help the Disney Corporation turn a sizeable slice of central Florida into Walt Disney World. Its enormous commercial success helped solidify Florida’s place in the international tourist market.

Behind the optimistic facade, however, lie many problems. Gun laws remain notoriously lax, and the multimillion-dollar drug trade shows few signs of abating – at least a quarter of the cocaine entering the US is said to arrive via Florida. Recently, too, the environment along Florida’s Gulf Coast was imperilled by 2010’s Deepwater Horizon oil spill. While the area has largely recovered from the disaster, the state filed suit against the oil company and its contractor in 2013, hoping to recoup some of the estimated billions of dollars it lost in tax income.

Florida’s East Coast presents a tremendously built-up mix of hotels, resorts, beaches and affluent developments north of Miami all the way to St Augustine. This is not to say this section of Florida is without merit, but it’s a lot less laidback than the state’s western Gulf Coast. Fort Lauderdale, no longer the party town of popular imagination, is today a sophisticated cultural centre with a bubbling, increasingly upmarket social scene. To the north, Boca Raton and Palm Beach are quiet, exclusive communities, their Mediterranean Revival mansions inhabited almost entirely by multimillionaires. Beyond Palm Beach, the coast is less developed; even the Space Coast, anchored by the extremely popular Kennedy Space Center, is smack in the middle of a nature preserve. Just north, Daytona Beach attracts race car- and motorcycle-enthusiasts with its festivals and the Daytona International Speedway. Just south of the Georgia state line, St Augustine is the spot where Spanish settlers established the first permanent European foothold in North America.

By car, the scenic route along the coast is Hwy-A1A, which sticks to the ocean side of the Intracoastal Waterway, formed when the rivers dividing the mainland from the barrier islands were joined and deepened during World War II. When necessary, Hwy-A1A turns inland and links with the much less picturesque US-1. The speediest road in the region, I-95, runs about ten miles west of the coastline, and is only worthwhile if you’re in a hurry.

St Augustine

Forty miles north of Daytona Beach, US-1 passes through the heart of charismatic ST AUGUSTINE. Eminently walkable, with a densely packed city centre and a Mediterranean feel, it bucks the daunting sprawl of much of Florida’s East Coast. The oldest permanent settlement in the US, with much from its early days still intact along its narrow streets, it also offers two alluring lengths of beach just across Matanzas Bay.

Bordered on the west by St George Street – once the main thoroughfare and now a tourist-trampled, though genuinely historic, pedestrianized strip, its entrance anchored by the eighteenth-century City Gate – and on the south by Plaza de la Constitución, St Augustine’s Old Town holds the well-tended evidence of the town’s Spanish period. It may be small, but there’s a lot to see: an early start, around 9am, will give you a lead on the tourist crowds, and should allow a good look at almost everything in one day.

Though Ponce de León touched ground here in 1513, European settlement didn’t begin until half a century later, when Spain’s Pedro Menéndez de Avilés put ashore on St Augustine’s Day in 1565. The town developed into a major social and administrative centre, soon to become the capital of east Florida. Subsequently, Tallahassee became the capital of a unified Florida, and St Augustine’s fortunes waned. Since then, expansion has largely bypassed the town – a fact inadvertently facilitating the restoration programme that has turned this quiet community into a fine historical showcase.

The Kennedy Space Center

The Kennedy Space Center is the nucleus of the US space programme: it’s here that space vehicles are developed, tested and blasted into orbit. Merritt Island has been the centre of NASA’s activity since 1964, when the launch pads at Cape Canaveral US Air Force base, across the water, proved too small to cope with the giant new Saturn V rockets used to launch the Apollo missions. With the shuttle Atlantis in 2011, NASA concluded its manned launch programme for the foreseeable future; hundreds of workers were phased out and the area businesses that catered to them have taken a bit of a hit.

Crowds are thinnest at weekends and in May and September – but at any time, allow an entire day to see everything. The various exhibits in the Visitor Complex – mission capsules, spacesuits, lunar modules, a mock-up Space Shuttle flight deck – will keep anyone with the slightest interest in space exploration interested for a couple of hours. Afterwards, be sure to watch the two impressive IMAX movies and take a stroll around the open-air Rocket Garden, full of deceptively simple rockets from the 1950s, cleverly illuminated to show how they looked at blast-off. The newest attraction is the Shuttle Launch Experience, a simulation ride where passengers get to see what it’s like to be an astronaut, vertically “launching” into space and orbiting Earth aboard the Space Shuttle. The remainder of the visit is comprised of a two-hour guided bus tour, which passes the 52-storey Vehicle Assembly Building (where Space Shuttles are prepared for launch), stops to view the launch pad and winds up with an opportunity to inspect a Saturn V rocket and witness a simulated Apollo countdown. For the dates and times of real-life launches, check the website, or sign up for event reminders by email.

Near the Space Center, on Hwy-405 in Titusville, the Astronaut Hall of Fame (included with regular admission) is one of Florida’s most entertaining interactive museums, where exhibits allow you to experience G-force and a bumpy ride along the surface of Mars.

One of the country’s most celebrated natural areas, the EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK is a vast, tranquil wildlife reserve, with a subtle, raw appeal that lies in stark contrast to America’s more rugged national parks. The most dramatic sights are small pockets of trees poking above a completely flat sawgrass plain, yet these wide-open spaces resonate with life, forming part of an ever-changing ecosystem that evolved through a unique combination of climate, vegetation and wildlife.

Though it appears to be flat as a table-top, the limestone on which the Everglades stands tilts very slightly towards the southwest. For thousands of years, water from summer storms and the overflow of nearby Lake Okeechobee has moved slowly through the Everglades towards the coast. The water replenishes the sawgrass, which grows on a thin layer of soil formed by decaying vegetation. This gives birth to the algae at the base of a complex food chain that sustains much larger creatures – most importantly alligators. After the floodwaters have reached the sea, drained through the bedrock, or simply evaporated, the Everglades are barren except for the water accumulated in ponds – or “gator holes” – created when an alligator senses water and clears the soil covering it with its tail. Sawgrass covers much of the Everglades, but where natural indentations in the limestone fill with soil, fertile tree islands – or “hammocks” – appear, just high enough to stand above the floodwaters.

In the nineteenth century, the Seminole and Miccosukee Native American tribes were forced to live hunter-gatherer existences in the Everglades, and still maintain a sizeable presence here. By the late 1800s, a few towns had sprung up, peopled by settlers who, unlike the Native Americans, looked to exploit the land. As Florida’s population grew, the damage caused by hunting, road building and draining for farmland gave rise to a significant conservation lobby. In 1947, a section of the Everglades was declared a national park, which today affords federal protection to a comparatively small area at the southern tip of the Florida peninsula. Urban development over the last century has edged the Everglades’ boundaries further south, and unrestrained commercial use of nearby areas continues to upset the region’s natural cycle. The 1200 miles of canals built to divert the flow of water away from the Everglades and toward the state’s expanding cities, the poisoning caused by agricultural chemicals from local farmlands, and the broader changes wrought by global warming could yet turn Florida’s greatest natural asset into a wasteland.

Warm sunshine and blue skies are almost always the norm in Florida. The state does, however, split into two climatic zones: subtropical in the south and warm temperate in the north. Orlando and points south have a mild season from October to April, with warm temperatures and low humidity – this is the peak tourist season, when prices are highest. Conversely, the southern summer (May–Sept) brings high humidity and afternoon storms; the rewards for braving the mugginess are lower prices and fewer tourists.

North of Orlando, winter is the off-peak period, even though daytime temperatures are generally comfortable (although snow has been known to fall on the Panhandle). During the northern Florida summer, the crowds arrive, and the days and nights are hot and very humid. Bear in mind that June to November is hurricane season, and there is a strong possibility of major storms throughout the entire state.

Encompassing a broad and fertile expanse between the east and west coasts, most of Central Florida was farming and ranching country when vacation-mania first hit the state’s coastal strips. From the 1970s on, this tranquil picture was shattered: no section of the state has been affected more dramatically by modern tourism. A clutter of highway interchanges, motels and billboards now arch around the sprawling city of ORLANDO, which welcomes more visitors than any other place in the state. The reason, of course, is Walt Disney World, the biggest and cleverest theme-park complex ever created, along with Universal Orlando and a host of other attractions, though the downtown area still holds the city’s best nightlife.

Accommodation in Orlando Theme Parks

If you’re on a budget, or want to spend time visiting the other parks, you’d do best to stay outside Walt Disney World. The chain hotels on International Drive are close to universal orlando and seaWorld orlando, with numerous restaurants and shops within walking distance. Plenty of hotels are dotted around disney property in an area called Lake Buena Vista, while budget hotels – and even a hostel – line Hwy-­192 (also close to disney). Downtown Orlando has a handful of charming, privately run hotels and B&Bs.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park

An animal-conservation theme park with Disney’s patented over-the-top twist, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park was opened in 1998. The park, home to 250 species and some 1700 animals, is divided into seven “lands” – Africa, Asia, Discovery Island, Oasis, Camp Minnie-Mickey, DinoLand U.S.A. and Rafiki’s Planet Watch – with Africa and Asia being the most visually impressive, each re-creating the natural landscapes and exotic atmosphere of these two continents with admirable attention to detail.

The best-realized attraction is Africa’s Kilimanjaro Safaris, where a jeep takes you on what feels very much like a real African safari, to view giraffes, zebras, elephants, lions, gazelles and rhinos, as well as take part in anti-poacher manoeuvres. Elsewhere in Africa, the troop of lowland gorillas at the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail are definitely worth a look. Crossing over to Asia, you’ll get an astounding up-close look at the healthiest-looking tigers in captivity at the Maharajah Jungle Trek. DinoLand U.S.A.’s Dinosaur is a slower but still exciting ride full of small drops and short stops in the dark while scary dinosaurs pop out of nowhere.

Eating in Orlando Theme Parks

The pick of the locals’ eating haunts are downtown and around; most visitors, however, head for International Drive’s inexpensive all-day buffets and gourmet restaurants. you are not allowed to take food into any of the theme parks, where the best restaurants are in Epcot’s World Showcase – particularly the French- and Mexican-themed establishments.

Orlando Theme Parks nightlife and entertainment

The closure of the nightclubs at Disney’s shopping and entertainment complex, Downtown Disney, several years ago means that orlando’s nightspots are now concentrated in two main areas, each with a quite different atmosphere. Citywalk, part of universal orlando (6000 universal Blvd; citywalkorlando.com), consists of thirty acres of restaurants, dance clubs and shops wedged between universal studios and islands of adventure. away from the theme parks, downtown Orlando has a large, eclectic and much more appealing crop of bars, lounges and clubs. most of the after-dark action happens along orange avenue.

SeaWorld Orlando

One of Orlando's big-three theme parks, SeaWorld offers acres of ocean-related attractions, whale and dolphin shows and thrill rides, attracting some five million visitors a year. However, since the release of the 2013 film Blackfish, an exposé on the dangers and questionable ethics of keeping killer whales in captivity, it has been embroiled in an epic PR disaster. Visitor numbers and stock price have both been hit, and several airlines, tour operators and performing artists such as Willie Nelson have ended their ties with the brand.

Given the global opportunities to watch whales and dolphins in the wild, SeaWorld's use of these fiercely intelligent marine mammals for entertainment seems increasingly anachronistic; its recent pledge to invest more money in research and enlarge its killer whale enclosures is unlikely to see a U-turn in public or corporate opinion any time soon.

The World of Walt Disney

When the brilliant illustrator and animator Walt Disney devised the world’s first theme park, California’s Disneyland, he left himself with no control over the hotels and restaurants that quickly engulfed it, preventing growth and erasing profits Disney felt were rightly his. Determined not to let that happen again, the Disney corporation secretly bought up 27,500 acres of central Florida farmland, acquiring by the late 1960s a site a hundred times bigger than Disneyland. With the promise of a jobs bonanza for Florida, the state legislature gave the corporation the rights of any major municipality (via a special jurisdiction called the Reedy Creek Improvement District), empowering it to lay roads, enact building codes and enforce the law with its own security force.

Walt Disney World’s first “land”, the Magic Kingdom, opened in 1971, and was a huge success. Unveiled in 1982, the far more ambitious Epcot represented the first major break from cartoon- based escapism – but its rose-tinted look at the future received a mixed response at the time. Partly due to this, and to some bad management decisions, the Disney empire (Disney himself died in 1966) faced bankruptcy by the mid-1980s. Since then, the corporation has sprung back from the abyss, and steers a tight and competitive ship that encompasses broadcast networks, publishing and movies – as well as a substantial merchandising arm. It may trade in fantasy, but when it comes to money, the Disney Corporation deals in the real world.

Universal Orlando

For some years, it seemed that TV and film production would move away from California to Florida, which, with its lower taxes and cheaper labour, was more amenable. The opening of Universal Studios in 1990 appeared to confirm that trend. So far, though, for various reasons, Florida has not proved to be a fully realistic alternative. Even so, this hasn’t stopped the Universal Studios enclave here, known as Universal Orlando, from becoming a major player in the Orlando theme-park arena. Though Disney World still commands the lion’s share of attention, Universal has siphoned off many visitors with its high-tech movie-themed attractions and the excellent thrill rides at Islands of Adventure. And with all the nightclubs at Disney now closed, CityWalk has become the main competition to downtown Orlando for nightlife dollars . Furthermore, Universal has achieved fully fledged resort status with its three luxurious on-site hotels.

Walt Disney World

As significant as air conditioning in making the state what it is today, WALT DISNEY WORLD turned a wedge of Florida farmland into one of the world’s most lucrative holiday destinations. The immense and astutely planned empire also pushed the state’s media profile through the roof: from being a down-at-heel mix of cheap motels, retirement homes and alligator zoos, Florida became a showcase of modern international tourism overnight.

Disney World is the pacesetter among theme parks. It goes way beyond Disneyland – which opened in Anaheim, California, in 1955 – delivering escapism at its most technologically advanced and psychologically brilliant, across an area twice the size of Manhattan. Its four main theme parks are quite separate entities and, ideally, you should allow at least a full day for each. The Magic Kingdom is the Disney park of popular imagination, where Mickey mingles with the crowds – very much the park for kids, though at its high-tech best capable of captivating even the most jaded adult. Known for its giant, golfball-like geosphere, Epcot is Disney’s celebration of science, technology and world cultures; this sprawling area involves a lot of walking, and young children may grow restless. The smaller Disney’s Hollywood Studios takes its inspiration from movies, TV and music, offering some good thrill rides and live shows that will appeal to all ages. The newest of the four, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park, brings all manner of African and Asian wildlife to the theme-park setting.

Along with the main parks, other forms of entertainment have been created to keep people on Disney property for as long as possible. There are two excellent water parks, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon, a sports complex called Disney’s Wide World of Sports and Downtown Disney, where you can eat, drink and shop to your heart’s content.

Rubbing hard against Alabama in the west and Georgia in the north, the long, narrow Panhandle has much more in common with the states of the Deep South than with the rest of Florida. Hard to believe, then, that just over a century ago, the Panhandle was Florida. At the western edge, Pensacola was a busy port when Miami was still a swamp. Fertile soils lured wealthy plantation owners south, helping to establish Tallahassee as a high-society gathering place and administrative centre – a role which, as the state capital, it retains. But the decline of cotton, deforestation and the coming of the East Coast railroad eventually left the Panhandle high and dry. Much of the inland region still seems neglected, and the Apalachicola National Forest is perhaps the best place in Florida to disappear into the wilderness. The coastal Panhandle, on the other hand, is enjoying better times: despite rows of hotels, much is still untainted, boasting miles of blinding white sands.

In the three hundred miles from the state’s southern tip to the junction with the Panhandle, Florida’s West Coast embraces all the extremes. Buzzing, youthful towns rise behind placid fishing hamlets; mobbed holiday strips lie just minutes from desolate swamplands; and a world-class art collection competes with a glitzy theme park. Surprises are plentiful, though the coast’s one constant is proximity to the Gulf of Mexico – and sunset views rivalled only by those of the Florida Keys.

The west coast’s largest city, Tampa, has more to offer than its corporate towers initially suggest – not least the lively nightlife scene in the Cuban enclave of Ybor City, and the Busch Gardens theme park. For the mass of visitors, though, the Tampa Bay area begins and ends with the St Petersburg beaches, whose miles of sea and sand are undiluted holiday territory. South of Tampa, a string of barrier-island beaches run the length of the Gulf (including those on beautiful Anna Maria Island), and the mainland towns that provide access to them – such as Sarasota and Fort Myers – have enough to warrant a stop.

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Florida Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Florida travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

With so many things to see and places to visit, it’s no wonder that Florida is the second most-visited state in the U.S., right behind California.

The Sunshine State has so much to offer travelers, from beautiful beaches to world-class theme parks to exciting cities to breathtaking cultural sites. You can’t really go wrong when planning a Florida vacation but you might feel a bit overwhelmed with all the travel ideas you’ll find online.

Don’t worry — wherever you choose to travel in Florida, we’ve got you covered.

During your trip, you’ll probably want to take some time to visit a few of the popular Florida beaches scattered throughout the state.

Even if you’re visiting more land-locked destinations like North Central Florida, you’re still just a short ride away from popular shores like Daytona Beach, Cocoa Beach, and more.

Want to see the sun set over the water?

You’ll definitely want to visit the Gulf Coast and Florida Panhandle with destinations like Destin and Panama City Beach.

Need an island getaway?

Grab a Florida Keys travel guide and head down to the southernmost point in the United States, Key West. The laid-back vibes will make you feel like you’re a whole world away.

Moreover, any Miami travel guide will tell you that the South Florida city is one of the state’s top destinations.

You’re likely aware of the city’s glamorous nightlife and beaches but it’s also definitely worth visiting if you’re interested in Hispanic Heritage Travel. You’ll find tons of opportunities to hear live Latin music, taste culinary favorites like the Cuban sandwich and Argentinian meats, and learn more about the city’s Latin roots at museums like the Freedom Tower and HistoryMiami.

One other advantage of planning a trip to Miami is the city’s central location. You’ll find tons of great day trip ideas to destinations West Palm Beach, Ft. Lauderdale , and the Everglades in our guide below.

The planning stage of any trip always comes with tons of questions about safety and accessibility.

When it comes to travel safety, you can feel at ease when planning a trip to Florida. You won’t run into a ton of crime in most tourist destinations but it’s always helpful to keep your wits about you in crowded areas and cities.

Also, be sure to pay attention to all weather warnings, particularly during hurricane season. If you have to travel during this time, keep your eye on the forecast and be aware of any evacuation plans at your accommodation.

In regards to accessibility, most popular attractions and activities offer accommodations for people with disabilities. The major theme parks are particularly known for their accommodations, offering everything from wheelchairs to Braille guides to accommodations for support animals.

Many of the state’s beaches and parks are also very accessible and some even offer beach wheelchair rentals. Check the website for your chosen activity to learn more.

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Florida, a must-visit destination when traveling America .

Note: This ultimate Florida guide contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Florida Map

Use this Florida tourism map to begin planning your trip to this incredible country!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Florida Travel Guide Destinations

Looking for the best Florida vacation destinations? The following Florida visitors guides can help!

The Best Things To Do In Tampa Bay, Florida

How To Travel Solo Through Fort Lauderdale

Fun Things To Do In Pasco County, Florida

5 Unusual Sites In Orlando, Florida

Best Florida Tours

Explore local culture with a Florida tour guide through these unique excursions:

• Florida – Miami Everglades Dune Buggy Ride (Homestead, Florida)
• Key West Full-Day Power Adventure: Sailing & Watersports Package (Key West, Florida)
• Dry Tortugas National Park Day Trip by Catamaran (Key West, Florida)
• 90-Minute Snorkel & Seabob Underwater Guided Reef Tour (Fort Lauderdale, Florida)
• Helicopter Night Tour Over Orlando’s Theme Parks (Kissimmee, Florida)

Renting A Car In Florida

Need a rental car for your Florida trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Public Transportation In Florida

Getting around Florida by train, bus, or ferry?

Omio is a must! You can use this tool for all of your public transportation needs when traveling around Florida.

The site is straightforward and user-friendly — and you can pre-book your tickets in advance at a discount.

They even offer flight and car deals!

Florida Hotels

Click here to browse the best Florida travel hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local properties:

Florida Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Florida tour. When visiting Florida — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Florida travel itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Florida Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling in Florida .

Q: What is the best month to go to Florida?

Late winter through spring, specifically February through May, is usually the best time to visit Florida.

The state can get chilly in the late fall and winter months (particularly north of Tampa ) and the summer and fall months bring hot, humid weather, and hurricanes.

Temperatures top out in the high 70s during March and April, but you’ll definitely run into more crowds around this time due to the spring break season and Easter holidays.

May is a great time to avoid heavy crowds and visit the state before the sweltering summer heat kicks in.

Q: What are the best places to stay in Florida?

The best place to stay in Florida definitely depends on the kind of trip you’re looking to take.

If you’re looking for a fast-paced, glamorous city break, head to Miami . This bustling South Florida city offers incredible beaches, exciting nightlife, diverse culture and an awesome art scene.

If your number one priority is some chill beach time, stay in Miami Beach in one of the quieter, more laid-back areas away from South Beach and the Art Deco District.

For the full Miami experience, head to South Beach , where you’ll be steps away from the city’s top restaurants, clubs and beaches.

While in Miami, you can visit Little Havana and Calle Ocho , the city’s Cuban neighborhood, to learn more about the Cuban-American community and sample some delicious, authentic cuisine. You’ll also be just a short drive away from historic homes Vizcaya Museum and Gardens and the Deering Estate.

If you want to check out some of Florida’s world-famous theme parks, you’ll want to book a stay in the Orlando area. You’ll be just a short drive away from exciting amusement parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and more.

Not a fan of roller coasters or costumed characters?

There’s plenty of great day trips you can take from Orlando. The Kennedy Space Center, the Everglades, and Daytona Beach are just a short drive away from this Central Florida city. Whether you’re visiting with kids or adults, you’re bound to have a good time in Orlando.

For something a bit more laid-back, head to Sarasota , located on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

With an incredible art scene, gorgeous beaches, and plenty of natural wonders to explore, Sarasota is a fantastic place to relax.

The city is home to the Ringling Museum of Art, featuring tons of historic paintings and sculptures from John Ringling’s personal collection, as well as the Ringling Circus Museum, chronicling the history of circus arts.

Feel your cares melt away on Sarasota’s white sand beaches or take a ride out to barrier island destinations like Siesta Key and Long Boat Key .

Looking for beautiful hiking trails ?

Spend some time exploring Myakka River State Park where you can spot tons of local wildlife and take a scenic treetop canopy walk.

Q: How much money do you need for a trip to Florida?

Your budget for a trip to Florida will definitely depend on your destination.

While the average traveler spends about $187 USD per day in Florida on transportation, accommodations, food, and other expenses, this can vary from city to city.

You’ll likely spend the most in theme park destinations like Orlando or more upscale beach towns like West Palm Beach and Sarasota.

Of course there are plenty of other, more budget-friendly beach destinations in the state such as St. Petersburg and Cocoa Beach.

If you have some flexibility in your plans but want to stick to a specific budget, do some research to find the best deal for your money.

Q: How many days do you need in Florida?

If you want to see as much of the state of Florida as you can, hitting multiple destinations, you’ll probably want to plan for a two-week trip. This will give you enough time to visit Miami, the Florida Keys, the Everglades, some of the Gulf Coast beaches, and spend a few days in the parks in Orlando.

If that sounds like a bit much, you can easily tackle one destination, like Key West, over a long weekend.

A week-long trip will also give you plenty of time to relax as well as a few days to dedicate to exploring your destination of choice.

Q: What are the best things to do in Florida?

Over the last 50 years or so, Florida has quickly become synonymous with themed entertainment.

The state is home to six of the best theme parks in the world, according to Theme Park Insider . Whether or not you’re a fan of roller coasters and pyrotechnics, these parks are worth checking out for their innovation and storytelling magic.

Disney fans will obviously want to spend some time in Walt Disney World , which boasts four theme parks, two water parks, and 25 resort hotels on a property the size of San Francisco.

A few miles away at Universal Orlando Resort , you can step inside movies and TV shows like Harry Potter , Transformers , and more at their two theme parks.

If spending all day in a theme park seems like a bit much for you, there’s still plenty of cool experiences to check out. Head to some of the weird and wonderful sites in Central Florida like WonderWorks , an interactive indoor park in an upside-down building you’ll have to see to believe.

Florida is also home to some of the best beaches you can find when traveling the United States , attracting millions of visitors every year.

In fact, TripAdvisor voted St. Petersburg Beach the best in the country in their Travelers’ Choice Awards , noting its wide, white sand beaches and clear blue waters as the best of the best. The beach’s location on Florida’s Gulf Coast also allows you to watch the sun set over the water every night.

Beyond St. Pete, other top beach destinations include Destin , Naples , and Clearwater . Just make sure to pile on the SPF; they don’t call Florida the Sunshine State for nothing!

Beyond the beach, Florida has tons of natural wonders to explore.

Everglades National Park brings in tons of tourists every year, hoping to catch a glimpse of some the area’s animal inhabitants like alligators, river otters, and egrets.

The park makes up much of the South Florida area, making it a perfect day trip from Miami or Naples.

Airboat rides are probably the most popular way to explore the Everglades, giving you a chance to get up close and personal with the local wildlife.

It’s also a great destination if you’re a fan of canoeing or kayaking. There are also plenty of trails to explore if you’d rather see the Everglades on foot.

Q: Where is Florida?

Florida is located in the Southeastern region of the United States.

It shares borders with the US states of Georgia (east) and Alabama (west). It also shares borders with the Atlantic Ocean (east) and the Gulf of Mexico (west).

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Florida?

Credit cards — mainly Visa and Mastercard — are widely accepted around Florida. That being said, it is always wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments and in case of emergency.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in Florida?

Yes, you can drink the tap water in Florida.

Q: What is the local currency in Florida?

The local currency in Florida is the US Dollar (USD).

What would you add to this Florida travel guide?

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A high quality, perfect-bound magazine, The Travel Guide to Florida is published annually and is a road map to the Sunshine State and its abundant merits as a vacation destination. Aimed at both the American domestic market and the Canadian market, it is filled from cover to cover with stimulating and informative feature stories written by some of Florida’s top travel writers. Created to inspire and guide travelers, it covers each of Florida’s eight distinctive regions together with a selection of special features on topics such as family vacations, golf, spa life, beaches, art and culture, ecotourism, water sports and theme parks. All stories are supported by high-quality, eye-catching photography. A section with useful information including comprehensive charts, maps and fundamental travel information makes it easy for readers to access valuable resources for planning a rewarding Florida vacation

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Miami Travel Guide

From the sizzling nightlife of South Beach to the authentic Cuban flavors of Little Havana, Miami offers one of the richest cultural experiences of any city in the United States. Its diverse neighborhoods house everything from world-famous street art to world-class restaurants, hotels, shopping centers, and cultural venues. Miami's colorful history is matched only by the vibrancy and verve of the modern global city it's continually blossoming into today.

Miami has attracted the world's most daring and creative minds since its evolution from native Tequesta lands to the promising new frontier of railroad tycoon Henry Flagler in the late 1800s. A developing father of Florida, Flagler expanded his Florida East Coast Railway to Miami in 1896 and the rest, as they say, is history.

Today, Miami is a destination for lovers of art, design, food, shopping, and even the great outdoors. Read on for Travel + Leisure 's ultimate guide to the Magic City, covering everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip.

Eastern Standard Time (Daylight Savings Time is observed seasonally; dates vary)

Best Time to Go

Spring is one of the best times to visit Miami. You'll find fewer crowds, pleasant temperatures, and plenty of outdoor events and activities to enjoy. Plus, April and May are the Miami Attraction & Museum Months , when you can score admission discounts and BOGO deals. The South Beach Wine & Food Festival , Carnaval Miami , Ultra Music Festival , Miami Fashion Week , and the Miami Open are other highlights of springtime in Miami.

While Miami's beaches are at their brightest in summer, the temperatures are sizzling and the weather is humid. Crowds are at their lowest, so it's a fine time to go if South Beach tops your to-do list, but limit your sun exposure and stay hydrated. If you enjoy spoiling yourself — top restaurants and hotels, spa treatments, the works — but want to get the best bang for your buck, August is the best month of the year to visit Miami: it's the only time when Miami Spa Months , Miami Spice Restaurant Months , and Miami Hotels Months overlap.

October and November are Miami's Entertainment Months , when you can explore Miami's diverse entertainment scene for less. Don't miss the world-famous Miami Book Fair held every November. Temperatures are cool to mild during South Florida's "winter," and the weather is drier, but this also means it's peak travel time and you'll find thicker crowds of tourists and higher prices. Each December sees Art Basel , an annual convergence of the world's artistic set; winter is also prime time to catch a Miami Heat game. Visit in February to check out the Coconut Grove Arts Festival , held every Presidents' Day weekend.

How to Get Around

Trains : Brightline connecting Miami to Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and eventually Orlando (price varies); Tri-Rail (price varies); Metromover map.

Metrorail : Metrorail is a 25-mile dual track that provides service to Miami International Airport (MIA) and runs from Kendall through South Miami, Coral Gables, and downtown Miami and other destinations.

Buses : Metrobus serves all major shopping, entertainment and cultural centers, as well as major hospitals and schools. Service is available from Miami Beach, Key Biscayne, West Miami-Dade, Broward County, Homestead, Florida City and the Middle Keys.

Trolley : trolley (free)

Taxis : USA Taxi, Super E-Z Taxi, Central Cab, Yellow Cab, KB Village Taxi; water taxi

Car service : various limo and chauffeur services available for hire; rideshare (Lyft, Uber)

Best Hotels

Miami beach, fontainebleau.

Address: 4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33140 Phone: (305) 535-3283 Book Now

One of Miami's most iconic hotels, the Fontainebleau sits atop a picturesque stretch of Miami Beach, so it's no wonder the luxurious oceanfront resort has attracted celebrities and A-listers of every ilk since opening its doors in 1954. Here, guests enjoy a brush with the Miami of yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

Address: 2001 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139 Phone: (305) 520-6000 Book Now

Immerse yourself in Art Deco luxury from the moment you enter the stunning lobby, breathe in the hotel's signature orange scent, and sip your welcome cocktail. Modern convenience with a hint of the hotel's historic past, beachfront location, and Jaya, the Asian-inspired gourmet restaurant, and exquisite service make this a Miami favorite.

Address: 1440 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139 Phone: (305) 531-6100 Book Now

Another South Beach landmark, The Betsy is a luxury boutique hotel in the heart of the Art Deco district. Guests have loved The Betsy's prime beachfront spot, along with its glamorous elegance, since its 1940s debut.

Acqualina Resort

Address: 17875 Collins Ave, Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160 Phone: (305) 918-8000 Book Now

Located toward the northern end of the Miami Beach barrier island, you'll find one of the city's most luxurious spots: the 4.5-acre Acqualina Resort, which blends old-world Mediterranean charm with Miami's modern verve. Guests have their pick of three outdoor pools as well as a private beach club, fitness center, three on-site restaurants, and a 20,000-square-foot spa.

Moxy Miami South Beach

Address: 915 Washington Avenue, Miami, FL 33139 Phone: (305) 600-4292 Book Now

This February 2021 opening features a stylish, open-air concept with a design reminiscent of midcentury Havana, contemporary Mexico City, and modern Miami. Steps from the sand, the eight story hotel offers two pools, six dining spots, and nearby Moxy Beach Club.

Downtown Miami/Brickell

Sls brickell.

Address: 1300 S Miami Avenue, Miami, FL 33130 Phone: (305) 239-1300 Book Now

SLS Brickell Miami offers luxe yet down-to-earth, contemporary digs. Featuring rooms and common spaces designed by Philippe Starck, plus a distinctive colorful exterior, this Brickell high-rise hotel has two restaurants and a rooftop pool.

Mandarin Oriental, Miami

Address: 500 Brickell Key Drive, Miami, FL 33131 Phone: (305) 913-8288 Book Now

Head to Mandarin Oriental, Miami for a stay on tropical Brickell Key, located a short walk to the heart of the action in downtown Miami. At the hotel's private beach, a rare amenity in the Magic City, bask in the Florida sunshine while enjoying views of the city skyline and the waters of Key Biscayne.

Address: 788 Brickell Plaza, Miami, FL 33131 Phone: (305) 712-7000 Book Now

A haven for foodies, design lovers, and shoppers, EAST Miami occupies a coveted spot in Miami's happening Brickell City Centre. Relax at any of the four pools (including a jacuzzi and polar plunge!) or the rooftop bar, which boasts killer views of downtown Miami. Plus, eats at EAST range from Uruguayan wood-fired flavors to Asian-inspired tapas.

Little Havana

Life house little havana.

Address: 528 SW 9th Avenue, Miami, FL 33130 Phone: (866) 466-7534 Book Now

In a former life, Life House Little Havana was the 1920s Mission Revival home of an expeditionist, built to serve as his home base in the heart of the tropics. Today, a stay at Life House Little Havana feels a bit like transporting to the heyday of 1940s Cuba. Guests are also treated to displays of vintage Afrocuban ceramics and Caribbean plants, plus a lush courtyard and library.

Coconut Grove

The ritz-carlton coconut grove.

Address:3300 SW 27th Avenue, Miami, FL 33133 Phone: (305) 644-4680 Book Now

One of the ritziest hotels in the Magic City, complete with marble bathrooms and open-air balconies, the Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove is styled to echo "the city's golden age of glamour" and has rooms with both city and Biscayne Bay views plus a spa and three onsite dining options. Best of all, it's a designated Florida Green Lodging property.

Coral Gables

The biltmore hotel coral gables.

Address: 1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables, FL 33134 Phone: (855) 311-6903 Book Now

Opened in 1926, the luxurious Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables sits on 150 sprawling acres and has long upheld a reputation as one of the most lavish stays in Miami. Now a National Historic Landmark, the history of the hotel is nearly as compelling as its indulgent amenities, from finely furnished rooms to a spa, 18-hole golf course, tennis club, gym, outdoor pool with private cabanas, and varied dining options.

Best Restaurants

Kyu (asian).

Address: 251 NW 25th Street, Miami, FL 33127 Phone: (786) 577-0150 Website

KYU is modern Asian with a Miami flair, hidden away in trendy Wynwood. The menu is diverse, but fan favorites emerge from the wood-fired grill. (The eatery is also eco-conscious: "For every tree we burn, we replant five," their menu assures patrons.) Terrace dining available; reservations recommended.

Ariete (New American)

Address: 3540 Main Highway, Miami, FL 33133 Phone: (305) 640-5862 Website

Soon after it hit the Coconut Grove scene in 2015, Ariete became an instant classic, known for its ever-evolving menu of modern, innovative cuisine. A hotbed for experimentation and culinary creativity, Ariete draws adventurous foodies and showcases Miami's food scene at its best. Reservations recommended.

The Rusty Pelican (upscale American/seafood)

Address: 3201 Rickenbacker Causewaym Miami, FL 33149 Phone: (305) 361-3818 Website

This Key Biscayne landmark has delighted diners for decades yet remains as contemporary and relevant as ever. With a prime waterfront location, comfortable bar and lounge, and an esteemed chef at the helm, The Rusty Pelican remains a Miami classic.

Mandolin Aegean Bistro (Greek/Turkish)

Address: 4312 NE 2nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33137 Phone: (305) 749-9140 Website

Behind a pair of blue gates in Miami's Design District, you'll find Mandolin Aegean Bistro nestled in a restored 1930s house, complete with patio seating. "Inspired by the tavernas of Aegean coastal towns," Mandolin was opened by a husband-and-wife team and quickly gained a reputation for its fresh, flavorful dishes.

Greenstreet Café (American)

Address: 3468 Main Highway, Miami, FL 33133 Phone: (305) 444-0244 Website

A Coconut Grove institution, Greenstreet Café serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and ranks among the best outdoor dining in Miami thanks to its lounge-style environment. It's one of Miami's best spots to see and be seen, yet its classic comfort food is refreshingly unstuffy.

Red Rooster Overtown (American)

Address: 920 NW 2nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33136 Phone: (305) 640-9880 Website

New to the scene but an instant hit, Red Rooster in historic Overtown promises to both share the story of Overtown — which they're making good on by hiring staff from within the community and buying from local purveyors — and "celebrate the roots of American cuisine." The restaurant serves a creative spin on comfort food in a historic and culturally enriching setting.

Joe's Stone Crab (seafood/American)

Address: 11 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139 Phone: (305) 673-0365 Website

A longstanding institution, Joe's Stone Crab is one of the most famous restaurants in Miami. Stone crabs, a seasonal catch, are one of Florida's iconic dishes; Joe's Stone Crab is at least partially responsible for their enduring popularity. An outdoor dining option, Joe's Backyard, was introduced in the wake of COVID. Limited reservations available through Resy; walk-ins seated on a first come, first serve basis.

Versailles (Cuban)

Address: 3555 SW 8th Street, Miami, FL 33145 Phone: (305) 344-0240 Website

Located in Little Havana, Versailles is Miami's classic Cuban spot. Expect authentic eats like memorably melty medianoches and the best café con leche you've ever sipped. Still a family-run business today, Versailles has been the unofficial town square of Miami's sizable Cuban population since its 1971 debut.

Azabu Miami Beach (Japanese)

Address: 161 Ocean Drive, Miami, FL 33139 Phone: (786) 276-0520 Website

Michelin-starred Azabu Miami Beach, inside the Marriott Stanton South Beach, was created to reflect a spirit of omotenashi , or Japanese hospitality. Diners are treated to cuisine straight from Japan. Try to score a seat at The Den , a hidden sushi counter inside. Reservations recommended.

Time Out Market Miami (food court)

Address: 1601 Drexel Avenue, Miami, FL 33139 Phone: (786) 753-5388 Website

If you're not sure what you're in the mood for but are open to explore, head to the Time Out Market Miami in South Beach to enjoy a curated food hall experience. There are 18 eateries, a demo kitchen, and three bars to choose from, all spread across 18,000 square feet of space.

Things to Do

South beach.

Stephanie Pollak/Travel + Leisure

If you don't post snaps from South Beach, did you even go to Miami? In addition to soaking up the sun on the world-famous beaches, set aside time to wander and marvel at the area's iconic Art Deco architecture and charming pastel buildings.

Wynwood Walls

Address: 2520 NW 2nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33127 Phone: (305) 531-4411 Website

Another classic Miami activity, wandering the Wynwood Walls is a must on any visit to the Magic City. The sprawling outdoor museum features work by world-famous street artists and promises a colorful, photo-worthy adventure.

Knaus Berry Farm

Address: 15980 SW 248th Street, Homestead, FL 33031 Phone: (305) 247-0668 Website

If it's a weekend in the wintertime and you're wondering where all the locals are, here's a hint: they're standing in line for cinnamon rolls at Knaus Berry Farm, a family-owned landmark since 1956. While in Homestead, you should also head to Robert Is Here Fruit Stand for a fresh fruit shake.

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

Address: 3251 S Miami Avenue, Miami, FL 33129 Phone: (305) 250-9133 Website

A National Historic Landmark, Vizcaya was constructed in 1916 to serve as a winter escape for industrialist James Deering. Visitors can explore its 34 lavish rooms and 10 acres of formal gardens.

Miami Seaquarium

Address: 4400 Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami, FL 33149 Phone: (305) 361-5705 Website

One of the most popular attractions in South Florida, Miami Seaquarium is packed with marine life encounters and family-friendly fun. Book an experience at Dolphin Harbor to meet these marvelous marine mammals up close.

Address: 12400 SW 152nd Street, Miami, FL 33177 Phone: (305) 255-5551 Website

As the largest (and oldest) zoological garden in Florida and the only subtropical zoo in the continental United States, it's easy to see why Zoo Miami is one of the top zoos in the country. With thousands of animals calling it home — from African elephants to Bengal tigers — there's a lot to see, and you can ride the tram or monorail to cover more ground.

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

Address: 10901 Old Cutler Road, Coral Gables, FL 33156 Phone: (305) 667-1651 Website

This 83-acre botanic garden is a Miami gem, home to extensive collections of rare tropical plants and flowering trees. Strolling these scenic acres provides an oasis of calm away from the beach and Miami's bustle.

Española Way

Between 14th and 15th Street, Miami Beach, FL 33139 Website

For a touch of history and culture plus a delightfully bohemian flair, head to the quaint Española Way, reminiscent of a charming Mediterranean village. Built in the 1920s as a haven for artists and creative types, Española Way recently underwent a $2.5 million revitalization and is now pedestrian-only, sparking a renaissance that's attracting visitors and locals alike.

South Pointe Park

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Address: 1 Washington Avenue, Miami, FL 33139 Phone: (305) 673-7730 Website

South Pointe Park, located at the southern tip of Miami Beach, is a prime place to take in the beauty of Miami. Stroll to the end of the 450-foot pier or enjoy the park's walking trails, picnic and BBQ areas, cafe, and mini water playground and jungle gym for the kids.

Oleta River State Park

Address: 3400 NE 163rd Street, Miami, FL 33160 Phone: (305) 919-1846 Website

Oleta River State Park is only half an hour from downtown Miami, but it feels worlds away. For a break from the urban hustle and bustle, head to this thousand-acre park to enjoy 15 miles of off-road bike trails, kayaking in dense mangrove forests, and fishing, swimming, and picnicking.

Biscayne and Everglades National Parks

Miami is the only city in the United States with two national parks making up its borders: Biscayne National Park and Everglades National Park , where you can head to Shark Valley Visitor Center for tram tours, bicycle rentals, and more. Get a fix of the great outdoors on your visit to Miami.

Best Shopping

Aventura mall.

Address: 19501 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, FL 33180 Phone: (305) 935-1110 Website

It would be a shopping sin to skip Aventura Mall on a visit to Miami. After a recent $214 million expansion, it's now one of the largest shopping centers in the United States. Aside from the hundreds of tenants (spanning every retailer you can think of), there's a giant food hall and a slew of world-renowned art installations to enjoy.

Brickell City Centre

Address: 701 S Miami Avenue, Miami, FL 33131 Phone: (786) 465-6514 Website

Brickell City Centre offers an indoor-outdoor shopping, dining, and lifestyle experience in a modern, multi-level, and infinitely inspiring artsy environment (as it should, after $1 billion worth of investment). You'd be hard-pressed to grow bored as you shop its 500,000 square feet of premium retail.

Dadeland Mall

Address: 7535 N Kendall Drive, Miami, FL 33156 Phone: (305) 665-6226 Website

Dadeland Mall is the classic Miami shopping destination, offering a classic mall experience in true Miami fashion: with hundreds of top retailers covering 1.4 million square feet.

Lincoln Road Shopping District

Address: 622 Lincoln Road, Miami, FL 33139 Phone: (305) 532-2513 Website

Head to the Lincoln Road pedestrian thoroughfare for restaurants, culture, classic Art Deco architecture, and some of the city's best shopping. You'll find one-of-a-kind boutiques, art galleries, and trendy shops to peruse. With Lincoln Road's easy transition from day to night, you might want to plan a full day here.

Bal Harbour Shops

Address: 9700 Collins Avenue, Miami, FL 33154 Phone: (305) 866-0311 Website

Luxury shoppers will find their happy place at Bal Harbour Shops. Anchored by Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue, the open-air shopping center is home to designer boutiques and big names such as Chanel, Gucci, Oscar de la Renta, and Prada, all nestled in a tropical garden setting.

Address: 8888 SW 136th Street, Miami, FL 33176 Phone: (305) 255-4571 Website

A popular destination for families, The Falls offers an al fresco experience complemented by lush tropical greenery and — you guessed it — waterfalls. The relaxing sound of rushing water throughout the shopping center makes for a laid-back shopping day in Miami.

Wynwood / Miami Design District

Address: 3002 NW Second Avenue, MIami, FL 33127 Phone(305) 573-5311 Website

If you're in the market for antiques, home goods, trendy threads, art, or luxury fashion from designer labels, head to Wynwood and its burgeoning neighbor to the north, the Miami Design District. It's one of the most happening areas of Miami, and your open-air shopping experience is complemented by the area's many famous murals.

Miracle Mile

Address: 280 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables, FL 33134 Phone: (305) 444-3210

You can find it all on Miracle Mile, from jewelry to home furnishings, art, and apparel. Browse their galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and live theater set along tree-lined streets

Neighborhoods to Know

South Beach: Though it occupies just under two square miles on the tip of Miami Beach, South Beach is what comes to most people's minds when they think of Miami. One of the most lively spots in the city, South Beach is famous for its beaches, outdoor cafes, Art Deco architecture, and sizzling nightlife.

Surfside / Bal Harbour: Surfside and its northern neighbor, Bal Harbour Village, are upscale residential areas with shops, hotels, boutiques, and restaurants in a lush tropical setting. Though it's located on the same barrier island as Miami Beach, the area is significantly quieter and more laid-back.

Little Havana: Declared a "national treasure" by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Little Havana became the vibrant neighborhood it is today when it began welcoming thousands of immigrants — many of them Cuban exiles — at the turn of the 19th century. Today, its rich Latin culture is well preserved, with soulful Calle Ocho its heart.

Little Haiti: On track to become Miami's newest hotspot, Little Haiti offers a colorful dose of the Caribbean and a thriving art scene. Home to many immigrants from Haiti and other islands, Little Haiti's French-Creole culture can be enjoyed in its restaurants, galleries, theaters, and shops.

Wynwood: One of Miami's hottest hoods in recent years, Wynwood is the place to see and be seen, especially among the younger set. Hundreds of colorful murals — which are in fact large-scale works by some of the world's most famous street artists — helped to make the area famous, so get your Instagram ready, but there are also art galleries, funky boutiques, and bars and restaurants galore.

Miami Design District: Just north of trendy Wynwood, the Miami Design District occupies 18 square blocks and has exploded in popularity, now housing every luxury brand you can think of as well as galleries, restaurants (many of them led by celebrity chefs), and a variety of public art installations.

Downtown Miami/Brickell: While downtown Miami and Brickell make up the Miami skyline with their smattering of skyscrapers, housing both residential and office spaces, the appeal isn't solely to locals and the business crowd: there's a lot for visitors to enjoy, too. Head downtown for a taste of Miami's museums, retail, cultural and event venues, and top-notch hotels and restaurants.

Historic Overtown: Miami's historic Overtown district is also one of its oldest. The neighborhood housed the African American workers who built and serviced Miami's infrastructure as it exploded from the ground at the turn of the 20th century. Today, it's home to vibrant culture and ample soul-food spots.

Coral Gables: Located southwest of downtown, Coral Gables is a ritzy section of Miami characterized by Mediterranean architecture and streets shaded by massive banyans. It recently underwent a streetscape revitalization to make its downtown more pedestrian-friendly.

Coconut Grove: If you're looking for a lavish vibe at a more relaxed pace plus ample green space and a touch of the eccentric, you'll find it in Coconut Grove. Head to the Grove to enjoy shopping, culture, and a picturesque waterfront, all with a bit of bohemian flair.

Miami is located in the tropics, so no matter the time of year, expect warm temperatures and sunshine. Spring is mild with little rain and temperatures in the 70s and low 80s. Miami summers are hot and humid with brief light rain showers almost daily. Temperatures gradually fall in autumn, and winters are mild and dry. Hurricanes are possible between June and November during the Atlantic hurricane season.

The following are average Fahrenheit lows and highs by month. Average annual precipitation is 30.01 inches.

January 61 - 77 February 63 - 79 March 66 - 81 April 69 - 84 May 73 - 87 June 76 - 89 July 77 - 91 August 78 - 91 September 77 - 89 October 74 - 86 November 69 - 82 December 64 - 79

Apps to Download

MIA Airport Official : detailed directions, restaurant and shopping recommendations, walking time estimates, flight tracking, baggage carousel updates, Mobile Passport Control, and chat assistance iPhone | Android

Wynwood Tour Guide : navigating Wynwood's works of art iPhone

ParkMe Miami Beach : parking payment, available parking spots iPhone | Android

GO Miami-Dade Transit : public transportation tracker (Metrorail, Metrobus, and Metromover) iPhone | Android

City of Miami Trolley : real-time trolley tracking and route planning iPhone | Android

Ride Freebee : free on-demand electric shuttle service in Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, Miami Beach, Miami Lakes, Brickell, Pinecrest, Doral and parts of Miami Beach; local deals iPhone | Android

CitiBike Miami : bikeshare rentals around Miami iPhone | Android

Signature Venues

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Bradenton area destination guide.

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Discover the Magic of Destin, Florida: A Travel Guide

Welcome to Destin, Florida, where breathtaking white sand beaches meet the glittering emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” Destin is a place where adventure, relaxation, and fun come together to create a truly unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, Destin has something for everyone.

In this ultimate travel guide , we’ll take you on a journey through Destin’s rich history, pristine beaches, outdoor adventures, culinary delights, luxury accommodations, spas and wellness centers, and year-round events and festivals. Get ready to discover the magic of Destin!

A Journey Through Destin’s History

Destin has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s when fishermen and their families settled in the area.

Today, you can explore that history at the Destin History and Fishing Museum , which features exhibits on the area’s fishing industry, military history, and local culture.

Take a walk through the HarborWalk Village, where you can experience the local charm and see the boats coming in with their daily catch.

Don’t miss the opportunity to go on a sunset cruise and learn more about Destin’s history while enjoying the stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.

Things to do in Destin, FL

Are you ready to experience the magic of Destin, Florida? This charming coastal town is a hidden gem that offers something for everyone.

From stunning beaches to delicious seafood, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in Destin. To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 must-visit attractions in Destin.

1. Henderson Beach State Park

If you’re a beach lover, then Henderson Beach State Park is a must-visit. This pristine beach boasts crystal-clear waters and sugar-white sand that will make you feel like you’re in paradise. Plus, there are plenty of amenities, including picnic areas, showers, and restrooms, so you can spend the whole day soaking up the sun.

2. Destin Harbor Boardwalk

For a fun and lively atmosphere, head to the Destin Harbor Boardwalk. This bustling area is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as stunning views of the harbor. You can even take a dolphin-watching tour or rent a boat to explore the waters yourself.

3. Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park

Looking for some thrills? Look no further than Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park. This family-friendly park features water slides, a lazy river, and even a mini-golf course. It’s the perfect place to cool off on a hot day and have some fun with the whole family.

4. Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park

Get up close and personal with marine life at the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. This park features a variety of exhibits and shows, including dolphin and sea lion shows, as well as a touch tank where you can interact with stingrays and other sea creatures.

5. The Track Family Recreation Center

For even more family fun, head to The Track Family Recreation Center. This park features go-karts, mini-golf, bumper boats, and more. It’s the perfect place to spend a day with the kids and make some memories.

6. Destin Commons

If you’re in the mood for some shopping, then Destin Commons is the place to be. This outdoor shopping center features a variety of stores, including national chains and local boutiques. Plus, there are plenty of restaurants and a movie theater, so you can make a day of it.

7. Crab Island

No trip to Destin is complete without a visit to Crab Island. This sandbar in the middle of the harbor is a popular spot for boaters and beachgoers alike. You can rent a pontoon boat or take a shuttle to the island, where you can swim, sunbathe, and even grab a bite to eat from one of the floating food vendors.

8. HarborWalk Village

For a taste of local culture, head to HarborWalk Village. This area is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as live music and events throughout the year. It’s the perfect place to experience the charm of Destin and mingle with the locals.

9. The Village of Baytowne Wharf

Another great spot for shopping and dining is The Village of Baytowne Wharf. This charming village features a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as a marina and a variety of events throughout the year. It’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the local atmosphere.

10. Destin History and Fishing Museum

Finally, for a dose of history and culture, head to the Destin History and Fishing Museum.

This museum features exhibits on the history of Destin and its fishing industry, as well as artifacts and memorabilia from the area’s past.

It’s a great way to learn more about this charming coastal town and its rich history.

So there you have it, the top 10 must-visit attractions in Destin, Florida. Whether you’re looking for beaches, shopping, or family fun, there’s something for everyone in this magical coastal town.

Best Beaches to Visit in Destin, Florida

Destin, Florida is a magical place that is sure to leave you spellbound. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and endless sunshine, it’s no wonder that this coastal paradise is a top destination for travelers from all over the world.

If you’re planning a trip to Destin, you’re in for a treat. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best beaches to visit in Destin, Florida.

First up on our list is Henderson Beach State Park. This beach is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists.

But don’t let that fool you, Henderson Beach State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Destin.

With its sugar-white sand and emerald-green waters, this beach is a true paradise. Plus, it’s a great spot for fishing, hiking, and picnicking.

Next on our list is Crystal Beach. This beach is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

With its calm waters and soft sand, Crystal Beach is the perfect spot for families with young children. Plus, there are plenty of amenities nearby, including restaurants, shops, and restrooms.

If you’re looking for a more secluded beach experience, then head over to Grayton Beach State Park. This beach is located about 30 minutes from Destin, but it’s well worth the drive.

With its untouched natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, Grayton Beach State Park is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway or a quiet day of relaxation.

For those who love adventure, we recommend visiting Miramar Beach. This beach is known for its water sports, including jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding.

Plus, there are plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, making it a great spot for a night out on the town.

Last but not least, we have the famous Destin Beach. This beach is the most popular destination in Destin, and for good reason.

With its crystal-clear waters and soft sand, Destin Beach is a true paradise. Plus, there are plenty of amenities nearby, including restaurants, shops, and restrooms.

Pristine Beaches and Glittering Waters

Destin is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The soft, sugar-white sand and emerald waters are a sight to behold.

Take a walk along the beach, go for a swim or try your hand at paddleboarding or kayaking . The crystal-clear waters make it easy to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life.

You can also take a boat tour to explore the stunning coastline and nearby islands.

For those looking for a more secluded experience, consider visiting Henderson Beach State Park, which offers a natural setting with hiking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

Outdoor Adventures and Attractions

Destin is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, try parasailing , jet skiing, or scuba diving. For a more relaxing experience, go on a fishing charter or take a walk through one of the many nature trails in the area.

You can also visit the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, where you can see dolphins, sea lions, and other marine life up close. Don’t miss the opportunity to go on a snorkeling tour to explore the underwater world of Destin.

Savoring Destin’s Culinary Delights

Destin is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From fresh seafood to international cuisine, you’ll find it all here. The HarborWalk Village is home to many excellent restaurants with stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.

Don’t miss the opportunity to try the local specialties like Gulf shrimp, oysters, and grouper. For a more casual experience, visit one of the many food trucks or beach bars in the area.

Unwind and Relax with Destin’s Luxury Accommodations

Destin offers a wide range of luxury accommodations, from beachside resorts to private villas. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, you’ll find the perfect place to stay in Destin.

Many of the resorts offer stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and come with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. Some resorts also offer spa services, fitness centers, and private beach access.

Relax and Unwind: Spas and Wellness Centers

Destin is home to many spas and wellness centers that offer a range of services to help you relax and unwind.

From massages to facials, you’ll find everything you need to pamper yourself in Destin . Many of the resorts in the area also offer spa services, so you can combine your stay with a spa treatment for the ultimate relaxation experience.

Events and Festivals: Year-Round Fun

Destin is home to many events and festivals throughout the year, including the Destin Seafood Festival, the Destin Fishing Rodeo, and the Sandestin Wine Festival.

These events offer a chance to experience the local culture, music, and food. There’s always something going on in Destin, so make sure to check the events calendar before you plan your trip.

Where to Stay: Accommodations for Every Budget

Destin offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget. From budget-friendly motels to luxury resorts, you’ll find everything you need for a comfortable stay.

Many of the accommodations are located near the beach, so you can enjoy stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Some of the budget-friendly options also offer kitchenettes, which can help you save money on meals.

Plan Your Trip: Getting There and Getting Around

Getting to destin.

Destin is easily accessible by air, road, and even water. The closest major airport is the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) in Panama City Beach, located approximately 50 miles east of Destin. Alternatively, you can fly into Pensacola International Airport (PNS), which is around 50 miles west of Destin. Both airports offer rental car services, making it convenient to drive to your destination.

If you prefer driving, Destin is located along US Highway 98, which connects to Interstate 10. This makes it a convenient road trip destination from many cities in the Southeastern United States.

Getting Around Destin

Once you’re in Destin, you have several options for getting around. If you have a rental car, you can easily explore the area at your own pace. Many of the popular attractions, restaurants, and accommodations are located near each other, so driving is often the most convenient option.

If you prefer not to drive, Destin also has a public transportation system called the Emerald Coast Rider, which operates buses throughout the city.

This is an affordable way to get around and reach popular destinations. Alternatively, you can use taxis, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, or rent a bike to explore the area.

Practical Tips for Visiting Destin

• Weather : Destin has a subtropical climate, with hot and humid summers and mild winters. The best time to visit is during the spring and fall, when the weather is warm and the crowds are smaller. Be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms during the summer months and pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
• Safety : Destin is a safe destination for tourists, but it’s always a good idea to take standard precautions. Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Beach safety : Always pay attention to beach warning flags and follow lifeguard instructions. The flags indicate water conditions and can help you stay safe while enjoying the beautiful beaches. Additionally, be cautious when swimming in the Gulf of Mexico, as rip currents can be dangerous.
• Fishing regulations : If you plan on fishing during your stay in Destin, make sure to familiarize yourself with Florida’s fishing regulations. You may need a fishing license, which can be purchased online or at local bait and tackle shops.
• Tipping : Tipping is customary in the United States, and Destin is no exception. A 15-20% tip is standard for restaurant servers, while a $1-2 tip per bag is appropriate for hotel porters or valets.

Destin, Florida is a place where magic happens every day. From the stunning beaches to the outdoor adventures, the local cuisine, and the year-round events and festivals, Destin has something for everyone.

Now that you have all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to Destin, Florida, it’s time to start packing your bags and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the great outdoors, or indulge in the local cuisine, Destin is sure to leave a lasting impression on you and your travel companions.

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Everything you need to know about Everglades National Park

Plan your trip to the southern tip of Florida to visit the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States.

Why you should go to Everglades National Park

Sprawling between South Florida’s Lake Okeechobee and the Gulf of Mexico, the Everglades is one of the world’s largest tropical wetlands. About 20 percent of the region is protected within the confines of Everglades National Park , the third largest national park after Death Valley and Yellowstone in the lower 48 states. While the park’s main purpose is preserving wilderness, Everglades also provides plenty of scope for outdoor adventure.

Although technically a wetland , perhaps it’s best to think of the Everglades as the nation’s slowest, widest river—a constant stream of freshwater roughly 60 miles wide, moving at a speed of around 2.5 miles per day as it makes its way south to Florida Bay. The Seminole people called the region Okeechobee (“river of grass”). And while a large part of the Everglades is covered in razor-sharp sawgrass, the region also encompasses mangroves , tropical hardwood hammocks (island forests), pine and cypress forests, freshwater prairie, and various marine and estuarine habitats.

(This ambitious new trail will someday connect South Florida’s two national parks.)

“A visitor with an untrained eye—especially one used to the dramatic vistas of some western national parks—might arrive at Everglades National Park and think ‘What's the big deal?’” says Eve Samples, executive director of Friends of the Everglades. “It's a park that requires you to really train your eye and be mindful and be present. When you do that, you can experience some really incredible and subtle nature.”

Where to find the best views in the park

With elevation ranging between sea level and eight feet, it’s not easy to snatch a lofty view of the park anywhere other than the 70-foot-high Shark Valley Observation Tower . Opened in 1984, the futuristic spiral renders views of up to 20 miles across the Everglades.

Fourteen miles west of Coe Visitor Center along the Main Park Road, the Pa-Hay-Okee boardwalk and elevated shade shelter provides another wide view across the river of grass.

One of the best coastal views is from the second-floor breezeway of the Guy Bradley Visitor Center in Flamingo.

Where to find the park’s best trails

Located near Coe Visitor Center, the Gumbo Limbo Trail (0.4 mile) and Anhinga Trail (0.8 mile) meander through Royal Palm hammock, while the 22-mile Long Pine Key Trails   penetrate the park’s largest stand of native pines.

Dead flat and paved, the 15-mile Shark Valley Trail varies between sawgrass marsh and tropical hardwood hammocks. Despite the name, there aren’t any sharks, just snoozing gators to step around (at a safe distance, of course).

Where to spot wildlife

Flamingo village is surprisingly good for wildlife. Osprey hatch and raise their young on nesting towers beside the marina, while manatees and American crocodile are sometimes spotted in the bay and nearby mangrove channels.

Alligators   routinely emerge from the swamp and sun themselves on or beside the Shark Valley Trail . It’s also a primo bird habitat for creepy-looking wood storks, gorgeous roseate spoonbills, and anhinga “snakebirds.”

Other places to watch gators and birdlife are the Anhinga Trail and Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk   in Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park adjacent to the national park.

(Go on a wildlife odyssey through the Everglades and Key West.)

How to visit the park like a Nat Geo Explorer

National Geographic Young Explorer and conservation biologist Gabriela Tejeda has guided visitors along the park’s Florida Bay coast in boats, kayaks, and on paddleboards.

Her favorite way to explore inland areas is "slough slogging." It entails hiking in knee-to-waist-high water through sawgrass to reach secluded hardwood hammocks   or cypress domes —flora and fauna rich arboreal islands in the sawgrass.

When viewed from above, the domes form a rough circle around a pond. “What I didn’t know the first time I explored a dome,” Tejeda recalls, “is that the water in the middle is an ‘alligator hole’—a place where they hang out in the winter when the rest of the Everglades is drying out.”

“[The cypress domes] are unlike anything I had ever seen,” Tejeda continues. “I like to equate them to a fairy tale—a little fairy dome where you just feel like there’s going to be something magical flying around.” No fairy sightings so far. “But I always see owls and alligators and snakes.”

She highly recommends joining a ranger-led slough slog to Double Dome or other cypress domes along the Main Park Road.

Notable activities and excursions

Driving:   The Main Park Road runs through a variety of Everglades ecosystems—freshwater prairie, cypress forest, mangrove, and coastal marsh — on a 38-mile journey between the Coe Visitor Center and Flamingo . Along the way are sideroads to the Royal Palm trails, Historic Nike Missile Site , the   Mahogany Hammock boardwalk trail, and West Lake Boardwalk .

Tours:   Shark Valley offers two-hour narrated tram tours that stop at the Shark Valley Observation Tower. January through April, rangers lead Full Moon/New Moon Bike Rides and other activities.

Narrated boat tours depart from Flamingo and Everglades City . The latter is also homebase for private outfitters offering airboat tours, including Everglades City Airboat Tours. History buffs should visit the town’s small but interesting Museum of the Everglades .

Paddling:   Flamingo and Everglades City bookend the Everglades’ ultimate kayak/canoe experience —the Wilderness Waterway —a 99-mile meander through mangroves and marshes with raised platform “chickee hut” campsites along the way. Everglades City is also the starting point for self-guided paddles along the Turner River Canoe Trails .

Best things to do for families

Bikes & boats:   If keeping kids active is your mission, rent bikes and dodge snoozing alligators along the Shark Valley Tram Trail or explore Florida Bay and the mangroves by boat. Flamingo Adventures   offers canoe and kayak rentals in two-hour increments, as well as full-day pontoon boat rentals.

Tours:   Hop aboard a narrated boat tour of Florida Bay (from Flamingo Marina) or the Ten Thousand Islands (from Port Everglades); or feel the wind in your face during an adrenaline-pumping airboat ride from outfitters around the periphery of the park.

Junior Rangers:   Offered in English, Spanish, and Haitian Creole, the park’s Junior Ranger Booklet features hands-on and self-guided activities including a scavenger hunt to spot wild animals that call the park home.

The park also participates in the Every Kid Outdoors program that provides vouchers for fourth graders and their families in the U.S. to visit the Everglades (and other national parks) free of charge for an entire year.

Where to stay

Hotels: Destroyed by a hurricane in 2005, Flaming Lodge is open again with new waterview rooms. Outside the park, the closest hotels are in Homestead and Doral (on the eastern edge of the park) and Everglades City, Marco Island, and Naples (beyond the western edge).

Houseboats: Modern, six-person, 42-foot houseboats at Flamingo Marina are equipped with a bathroom (and with shower), an indoor galley, outside grill, air conditioning, bedding, and fish-cutting tables.

Camping: Long Pine Key Campground is open November 1 to April 30. Flamingo Campground is open year-round. Both feature bath houses, dump stations, and potable water. Reservations highly recommended. For camping with the comforts of home, Winter Glamping Tents are available November-April in Flamingo.

Wilderness camping is allowed on certain ground or beach sites or “chickees” (elevated camping platforms). Most sites are accessible only by water and all require wilderness permits. Reservations at Recreation.gov .

Here’s what else you need to know

Access: Although the entire coast is open to exploration via watercraft, land-bound visitors have three options for entering the park: Everglades Homestead in the east, Shark Valley in the north, and Gulf Coast in the northwest.

When to visit:   The dry season (December to March) is when most ranger programs and park concessions are available. This is also the best time to see wading birds and other wildlife. The wet season (April to November) is hot, humid, buggy, and has fewer park services.

“Many people prefer the winter for the terrific weather,” says ranger Allyson Gantt. “But each season offers something special. The shoulder seasons of fall and spring are less busy and may offer more solitude. Summer is especially great for boating and other water activities.”

Closures: A multi-year construction project to raise the level of the Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) often features delays. Shark Valley parking is often full by 10 a.m. Check out the latest road, trail, and parking lot conditions, plus weather and prescribed burning alerts at the park’s   conditions page.  

Fishing: Unless you’re under 16 or a Florida resident 65 or older, a state fishing license is required. Anglers casting south of Nine Mile Pond need a saltwater fishing license; from Nine Mile Pond northwards, a freshwater fishing license is mandatory.

Swimming: Swimming and snorkeling are forbidden anywhere inside the park.

Remote control aircraft: Drones, model airplanes, and similar unmanned aircraft are not allowed in the park.

Read before you go:   Originally published in 1947, the definitive Everglades book remains The Everglades: River of Grass ,   by Florida writer and conservationist Marjory Stoneman Douglas.

Are pets allowed?  

Because of the park’s wildlife-rich environment—and the potential threat that it poses to both pets and wild animals—pets and service animals are only allowed in parking lots, on boats, and in the campgrounds and picnic areas at Flamingo and Long Pine Key.

How accessible is Everglades?

Among the accessible sites and services are seven trails, all four visitors centers, two developed campgrounds and one backcountry campsite, narrated boat tours, and the Shark Valley Tram Tour. Visitor information via TDD is available at (305) 242-7740.

Related Topics

• NATIONAL PARKS
• BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING

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10 Things To Do In Key West: Complete Guide To The Florida Keys

T he Florida Keys are flocked to annually as Americans attempt to escape the frigid temperatures of the northern states . During the winter months, the crowds of tourists swell as travelers seek sunning 70 degrees or higher days and pristine beaches. Key West is, of course, famous for its stunning beaches and location at the western end of the Florida Keys. Those that live in the Keys are well known for their live-in-the-moment philosophy, and some famous names have even called Key West their home.

Singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett once lived in Key West, and writers Judy Blume and Earnest Hemingway also called Key West home. It is easy to see what drew them here, stretches of beautiful beaches with their famously numerous conches, fine weather most of the year, and wonders to be discovered beneath the waves.

UPDATE: 2023/07/21 18:18 EST BY NOAH STAATS

There's Much More To Do While In Key West, Florida!

This article has been updated with new spots to see in Key West, as well as helpful information for Florida visitors. Whether travelers want to explore a World War ship, lay in the sand, head downtown, check out a lighthouse, or even view the southern tip of the USA, Key West is the perfect summer destination!

Things To Do

Key West is the furthest west of all the Keys and the furthest from Florida’s mainland. This reclusive destination has been the home of writers and musicians who were inspired by the beauty of the place. Today, it is a traveler’s dream. Here is our ultimate travel guide to Key West.

Relax On Smathers Beach

• Address : 2601 S Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040
• Hours : Open daily from 7 AM to 11 PM

One of the first things people in Key West want to do is head to Smathers Beach. Here, tourists can experience one of the most popular beaches in the Keys, as well as relax and unwind in the soft white sand.

Travelers recommend this beach because of its soft, rock-free sand, which can make a difference when walking around. The clear blue water is another major plus, making this a top choice for those wanting some sun (and fun).

Climb The Key West Lighthouse

• Address : 938 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040
• Hours : Daily from 10 AM to 5 PM

Another thing to see while in Key West is the city's iconic and historic lighthouse. Here, people can check out a nearby museum of the lighthouse and climb up the structure on guided tours.

This attraction gets popular during weekends and holidays, so that is something to remember. Furthermore, the Key West Lighthouse has been fully restored and boasts many nearby restaurants, shops, and beaches. It's located right in the center of the city!

Enjoy The Vista At Southernmost Point Of The Continental U.S.A.

• Address : 1400 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040
• Hours : Open 24 hours, seven days a week

One fun thing to do while in Key West is to head to the Southernmost Point of the Continental US. Here, tourists can experience the "tip" of our country, as well as snap photos of the panoramic water views.

The Southernmost Point Buoy is an anchored concrete buoy in Key West, Florida, one of the main draws to the attraction. This location is only 18 miles above sea level and the lowest latitude land of contiguous North American states.

What's nice about this location is that it's free for people to visit, making it perfect for large groups or anyone trying to save money while in South Florida.

• There are tours and events offered here, and those have fees.

See Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

• Address : 601 Howard England Way, Key West, FL 33040
• Hours : Open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM

The Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, also known simply as Fort Taylor, is a historic site and park open to the public in Key West, Florida. Here, people can enjoy the beautiful weather and soak up a bit of history and is centered on a Civil War-era fort located near the southern tip of the city.

Listed as a National Historic Landmark, the Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park spans 87 acres and is open from 8 AM to 5 PM daily. For travelers interested in history and wanting to skip the lines or crowd downtown, this is the place to go in Key West.

Indulge In History At USCGC Ingham Maritime Museum

• Address : Southard St, Key West, FL 33041
• Hours : Tuesday through Saturday, 10 AM to 4 PM

As one of only two preserved Treasury-class United States Coast Guard Cutters, USCGC Ingham Maritime Museum stands as a national treasure, as well as a great spot to spend an afternoon in Key West, Florida.

This 327 Foot museum ship from WWII and Vietnam served the US between 1936 and 1988 and still stands for people to head inside and check out. What's unique about this attraction is that guided tours are available, as well as interactive displays and historical data and imagery from the war.

• Tickets start at $15 for those 13+.
• Children 7-12 are only $5, and anyone under seven is free to enter.

This is a nice option for families with young kids and could be a nice way to escape the sun in the Keys.

Tour The Ernest Hemingway Home And Museum

• Address : 907 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040
• Hours : Daily from 9 AM to 5 PM

For ten years, Earnest Hemingway lived and wrote in Key West . During his time in Key West, he would write seventy percent of the entirety of his life’s work while living in this home. Today, it has been transformed into a museum providing travelers with guided tours every fifteen minutes from nine to five.

The Museum is even available for weddings and corporate events. Recognized by the Library of Congress for its importance, this is a must-visit location for lovers of both literature and architecture. Travelers may even catch sight of the world-famous polydactyl (six-toed) cats.

Adventure To Dry Tortugas National Park

• Consists of 70 small islands that can be accessed by boat.

Not necessarily close to Key West, but about 70 miles west, the remote Dry Tortugas National Park won’t get much closer to travelers than during a stay in Key West. This 100-square mile park, despite “dry” being in the name, is mostly open water with seven small islands.

This park is only accessible by boat or seaplane, and despite being so out of the way, its picturesque blue waters, coral reefs, marine life, and vast assortment of birds make this a truly stunning must-visit destination.

Related: Combine Dolphin Watching With Snorkeling On This Exciting Key West Tour

Visit Key West Butterfly And Nature Conservatory

• Address : 1316 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040
• Hours : Open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM

The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is a great destination for travelers to experience nature without traveling too far. Here, travelers will discover free-flying butterflies, exotic birds, and glorious flamingos soaring around the glass-domed tropical butterfly habitat. Travelers with kids will find this to be a great stop.

Explore Mallory Square

• Address : 420 Wall St, Key West, FL 33040

Set on Key West’s historic waterfront, Mallory Square is where travelers will find most of what is fun and famous on the island. The square is home to numerous shops, restaurants, and other popular attractions.

Many travelers will arrive in the square in the morning and stay until evening. There is always something happening in Mallory Square.

Traverse Duval Street

• Address : Duval Street, Key West, Florida, 33040

Duval Street is the other destination that is home to a number of Key West's best shops and attractions. Duval Street is home to venues that can be referred to as adult Disneyland, as their more ways for travelers to entertain themselves than can be appropriately accomplished in a day.

A walk down Duval Street is a great way to discover something new or exciting.

Brief Guide To The Best Keys (Other Than Key West)

Travelers may want to know a little bit about the other Keys as well, so here is a brief guide to what the best of the Florida Keyes, aside from Key West.

The most accessible of the Florida Keys, Key Largo, is just a few minutes' drive from Florida’s mainland. However, it feels a world apart. Home to abundant wildlife and often the set of movies, exploring Key Largo is a popular pastime.

Many enjoy scuba diving or hiking around the island's coast. Destinations like Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, and Everglades National Park are great for exploration, and those who want to catch sight of the American Crocodile should visit Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

Key Islamorada

This village encompasses six of the Florida Keys, all known for their coral reefs. The Theater of the Sea, found in Islamorada, features encounters with dolphins that are always popular with travelers.

The History of Diving Museum is a destination for divers and includes a 16th-century treasure chest as an exhibition. Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park and Indian Key Historic State Park are popular destinations for lovers of nature and the past.

Key Marathon

Extremely popular with fishermen, Key Marathon is known for having the best fishing in the world. It is also home to stunning beaches and warm tropical weather, making it a draw for travelers and a popular place to live.

Big Pine Key

The primary draw for Big Pine Key is its tranquil environment and aesthetic natural scenery. The Key is known for its outdoor activities, such as fishing, walking and biking, and discovering wildlife.

For those that want to get into the water, Big Pine Key is also a go-to destination for snorkeling and diving.

Best Time To Visit Key West

The best time to go, according to popular opinion, appears to be between March and May. Travelers may run into a college spring break crowd in April, but other than that, the majority of the winter crowd that flocked to Key West for the season will have left.

Winter is the busiest and priciest time to visit Key West. Like the birds, the humans of North America also enjoy a southern migration during the winter , and with temperatures in the 70s and 80s all through the frigid northern months, it is easy to understand why.

The summer is actually the least popular time to visit Key West. The rain and humidity often keep travelers away. Fall is another season to consider. However, the risk of hurricanes from June to November is often enough to keep many travelers away.

Travelers should also watch out for price hikes that occur during events like Key West Pride and Fantasy Fest.

Best Ways To Get Around Key West

Key West is a unique destination, and its transportation options reflect it. To help travelers out, here is a guide to the best ways to get around Key West.

In general, it is not recommended to rent a car if travelers are flying into Key West. Travelers may be able to justify it if they are staying in New Town, where they will have a little bit of a commute to the Old Town, but even then, parking is a challenge and often an annoyance, especially when travelers have other options.

Those staying in Old Town will find that renting a car is an unnecessary expense that just creates another burden. Travelers may look at the cost of taxis and deem them too costly, but with all the fees associated with renting and parking a car, travelers will likely find that they aren’t saving enough money, if any at all, to justify it.

If driving in was how travelers arrived in Key West, they would likely find it easier not to use the vehicle much during their stay.

Old Town, Key West, is the most popular destination for travelers, yet it takes up less than two square miles. The island is mostly flat, too, with its highest point being 18 feet above sea level.

All of this, combined with the stunning aesthetic beauty of the neighborhoods in Key West, makes the island incredibly walkable. It is also generally recommended that travelers spend time walking while in Key West to truly enjoy the island's beauty at their own pace.

By Taxi, Uber, or Lyft

Traditional taxi services are still prevalent in Key West, with a variety of companies to choose from.

Travelers can order specific taxis, and even those with a bike rack, if travelers get a bit tired or hot riding around the Island. Uber and Lyft have also been recently added to travelers’ options.

But, if travelers are set on using a traditional cab, they should download the app, TaxiASAP, to have traditional licensed taxis come and pick them up.

• Call A Taxi - 305-296-6666

By Bicycling

For travelers who want to get around a bit quicker than walking, bicycling in Key West is highly recommended. Travelers will even be able to find weekly rentals that will usually cost around $50. One of the best bike shops on the island is Island Bicycles which can be found at 929 Truman Avenue.

This is a great spot to pick up the perfect bike to spend the week cruising around on.

Key West is incredibly bicycle-friendly, but travelers do need to make sure to follow traffic laws as they always do and do make sure to use a bike lock.

• Island Bicycles - 305-292-9709

By Electric Car or Moped

Small electric cars and Mopeds have steadily grown in popularity in Key West. Electric cars, often called eggs, are becoming more popular to rent. They come in a variety of sizes and can carry up to six, but the larger cars still run into a similar issue that normal cars have, and that's parking.

Travelers who are familiar with riding Mopeds and scooters will find that they are much more convenient for getting around the city. However, it needs to be strongly stated that those who do not have experience riding motorcycles, scooters, or Mopeds, should not ride them in Key West.

It may look easy, but inexperienced riders are often caught by surprise, and the injuries from a crash on a two-wheeled vehicle can be life-altering. Also, the Florida Keys have a lenient helmet law; it shouldn't matter if travelers don’t need to wear one. They absolutely should. Don’t ruin a trip to Key West with a tragic motorbike accident.

Where To Eat In Key West

Key West has a mix of all sorts of places to find food. To help travelers save some time and try Kew West’s best, here are three must-dine destinations.

Key Plaza Creperie

Travelers who are looking for a special way to start their day should check out Key Plaza Creperie . This European-style high-end bistro specializes in crepes and galettes while also serving breakfast dishes, homemade soups, paninis, wraps, salads, and quesadillas.

One weekend, travelers can look forward to mimosas and eggs benedict.

• Address - 1105 Key Plaza, Key West, FL 33040
• Contact - +1 305-517-6032
• Cost - $$-$$$
• Fan-Favorite - Honey Almond Crepe

Clemente's Trolley Pizzeria

Quality pizza may be a challenge to find across the Keys, but Clement’s Trolley Pizzeria provides Key West with some of the best pizza and service found across the Keys. Their friendly and funny staff will make sure travelers have a great time and find what they are looking for.

• Address - 516 Fleming St, Key West, FL 33040-6882
• Contact - +1 305-900-7035
• Fan-Favorite - Honey Bacon Pizza

Frita's Cuban Burger Cafe

Since 2014, Frita’s Cuban Burger Cafe has been dedicated to bringing Cuban flavors of the “Frita” to Key West. Travelers will be able to find the café just steps off the popular Duval Street.

Travelers stopping by will be able to enjoy their signature Fritas, traditional Cuban and fusion sandwiches, and tacos. They even offer delicious pastries and ice cream to end a meal with.

• Address - 425 Southard St Steps From Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040-6538
• Contact - +1 305-509-7075
• Fan-Favorite - Traditional Cubanito Sandwich
• Frita's Cuban Burger Cafe Menu

Where To Stay In Key West, Florida

With so many great choices for places to stay in Key West, travelers might need a little help narrowing down their choices. Here is a look at three excellent destinations for travelers to find accommodations.

Havana Cabana at Key West - Budget

Located on Key West’s Waterfront, Havana Cabana at Key West has been part of Key West for years but is recently under new ownership. The hotel is heavily influenced by the nostalgic art and culture of Key West’s neighborhoods. The purpose of the Cabana is for travelers to escape reality.

Travelers will be greeted by mid-century cars, birds of paradise dot the outdoor landscape, and Flamenco guitar can be heard from the pool. This is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to unwind in Key West.

• Address - 3420 N Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040-4224
• Amenities - Pool, Yoga and Paddleboard Fitness Classes, Bar/Lounge, Bicycle rental, Entertainment staff, Pets Allowed (Dog/Pet Friendly)

Alexander’s Guest House - Mid-Tier

Alexander’s Guest House is a gay-owned and operated establishment that welcomes LGBTQA+ travelers stay. Travelers looking to visit will enjoy their convenient location at the heart of Old Town, their continental breakfast served poolside and complimentary cocktails in the evening. With their deluxe rooms, suites, and contemporary style. This is a welcoming destination for LGBTQA+.

• Address - 1118 Fleming St, Key West, FL 33040-6910
• Amenities - Pool, Free Breakfast, Diving, Snorkeling, Adults only, Rooftop terrace

Oceans Edge Resort & Marina Key West - Luxury

Oceans Edge Resort & Marina is the largest hotel in Key West. With 100% of their rooms offering ocean views, six lovely swimming pools, and what could be regarded as one of the top restaurants in Key West, travelers are sure to enjoy their stay. This hotel also enjoys dockside access to the Gulf and the Atlantic's innumerable wild islands, channels, sandbars, wildlife, and the world's third-largest barrier reef. This family-built and operated hotel invites travelers to have an exciting and tropical adventure in Key West.

• Address - A - 5950 Peninsular Ave, Key West, FL 33040-6012
• Amenities - Pool, Yoga and Paddleboard Fitness Classes, Bar/Lounge, Bicycle rental, Bicycles available, Kids stay free

Related: Visiting Old Town? Kimpton Key West Has Plenty Of Lodging Options

Tips For Visiting Key West, Florida

In the town, locations like Duval Street and Mallory Square are popular destinations for travelers to explore as well. Those who are fond of literature may even want to take a tour through Ernest Hemingway's old home, where he wrote the majority of his published works.

One piece of advice, though, for travelers is to not how remote and vulnerable Key West and the other Keys are to hurricanes as there is only one main road leading to the island. Travelers should make sure to stay conscious of the weather both before and during their trip.

Related: 10 Incredible Facts You Don't Know About Key West Florida

How To Spend The Perfect Day In Key West

The perfect day in Key West starts with brunch at Key Plaza Creperie; ideally, it would be on the weekend for the true brunch experience, complete with mimosas. Next, It's a walk to Duval Street, with the first stop being The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. Touring the facilities doesn’t take much time, but it is a must for a lover of literature.

After that, travelers would stroll down Duval Street until they got a bit hungry. Then, they should see Frita’s Cuban Burger Cafe.

Related: This Abandoned Florida Keys Beach Might Be The Perfect Summer Secret

Once travelers are sated, it's time to visit Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory or perhaps take a stroll down to the beach. When evening rolls around, travelers may wish to retire back to the accommodation of their hotel, but grabbing a pie at Clemente's Trolley Pizzeria will likely be the best bet.

When the sun goes down, Travelers will find plenty to do in Mallory Square. That would be the perfect day in Key West.

Q: Why is Key West so special?

Key West is known for its comfortable winter climate, great sunsets, and a variety of great food and luxury accommodations . Stay at an ocean front hotel , and you'll understand why Key West is so famous after one sunset and sunrise.

Q: Is Florida Keys and Key West the same?

Key West sits at the westernmost end of the Florida Keys, but it's a city and a separate destination. Travelers can reach Key West in about three days via road ; despite its location, it's all accessible by car. There's a lot to know about Key West , and a lot to explore there that's distinct from the rest of the Keys.

Q: How many days do you need in Key West?

The longer the trip, the better, but visiting Key West can be explored in about three or four days, if that's all travelers have. Check out the top attractions if visiting in summer , and add these must-do activities to any first-time-visitor travel itinerary .

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• Last Updated On
• April 26, 2024

This Eerie Limestone Castle In Florida Is Said To Be Haunted The Spirit Of Its Creator

Have you ever experienced the mystical aura of a place where every shadow and light seems to tell a story?

Down south here in Florida, there’s a place where stone walls whisper tales of a love lost and a man’s unyielding dedication—the Coral Castle.

Carved single-handedly from over 1,100 tons of coral rock, this architectural marvel raises more questions than answers.

With gates that move at a touch and chairs balanced with precision, could the spirit of the man who made the impossible possible still linger?

Tucked away in the sunny city of Homestead , this eerie limestone fortress stands as a monument to one man’s enigmatic abilities and possibly, his broken heart.

Built by the reclusive Edward Leedskalnin from 1923 to 1951, the Coral Castle, previously known as Rock Gate Park, is an architectural anomaly that has puzzled scientists and tourists for decades.

Dive into the lore and you’ll find that Ed, a Latvian immigrant, supposedly erected this stone behemoth single-handedly, using nothing but simple tools.

They say he toiled away under the cloak of night, away from prying eyes, moving massive coral blocks that weigh as much as 30 tons each.

Some folks even whisper about supernatural or alien assistance—but let’s keep our feet on the ground and our heads out of the clouds for now.

Visitors to the Coral Castle can wander through a garden of monolithic sculptures that include a 9-ton gate that moves with a touch and a Polaris telescope perfectly aligned with the North Star.

There’s also a sundial that tells time within two minutes of accuracy.

It’s a marvel of engineering and a testament to human willpower—or perhaps something a tad more otherworldly.

The story goes that Ed’s fiancée jilted him the day before their wedding.

Heartbroken but determined, he spent over 28 years crafting this monumental ode to his lost love.

It’s a classic tale of romance, mystery, and DIY to the extreme.

Whether it’s haunted by Ed’s spirit or not, you can feel the emotion etched into every block.

Exploring the grounds of Coral Castle in Florida is like stepping into a real-life mystery novel.

Now, this place is something else.

The builder was a tiny fella, but he managed to single-handedly construct this monumental limestone structure, which has left scientists and tourists scratching their heads for ages.

As you meander through the garden, it’s like walking through Ed’s diary—if his diary were written in 1,100 tons of coral rock.

There are swinging gates that move with a gentle push, despite their hefty weight, and chairs fashioned so perfectly to the human form that you half expect them to offer you a cup of tea.

And then, you come across his living quarters.

Imagine a two-story tower, but instead of Rapunzel’s locks cascading down, it’s full of the secrets of a man dedicated to his craft.

This was his workshop and his castle, complete with a heart-shaped bathtub, because why not?

The man had a sense of humor—perhaps that’s what happens when you spend too much time with inanimate objects as your only company.

Related: The Tiny Yet Iconic Florida Lighthouse that Proves Size Isn’t Everything

Related: Uncover the Quaint Charm of America’s Smallest Post Office in this Little-Known Florida Town

Related: This Hand-Built Castle in Florida is the Whimsical Wonderland Your Family Will Adore

It’s a place that’s both haunting and whimsical, with every sculpture and tool offering a clue to the great puzzle of Ed’s life and work.

It’s as if he’s saying, “Figure me out if you can!”

And let me tell you, that’s an invitation you just can’t turn down.

The Castle isn’t just a solemn place of heartache, though.

There’s a sense of whimsy here, too.

Children often giggle at the stone rocking chairs and the 8-foot-tall “throne room” that makes them feel like kings and queens of their own castle.

It’s a family-friendly spot where imagination is the only limit to what you can discover.

Interactive tours are available, and they’re a fantastic way to get the inside scoop on the Castle’s secrets.

Guides are well-versed in the lore and love sharing theories about how Ed, a slight man of just 100 pounds, managed his feats of strength and precision.

You’ll hear about the “magnetic current” and “perpetual motion holder,” terms Ed used in his writings that still baffle the minds of many.

What’s a trip without a little treasure hunting?

The gift shop at Coral Castle offers unique souvenirs, from books on the Castle’s mysteries to themed trinkets that serve as perfect mementos of your journey into the unknown.

And for the romantics at heart, a replica of Ed’s 9-ton gate in miniature might just be the ticket to inspire your own labor of love.

Before you pack up and head out, make sure to snap some photos.

The Castle is a photographer’s dream, with its curious sculptures and the haunting beauty of the stone structures set against Florida’s vibrant skies.

You might just capture something unexpected in your shots—some visitors claim to see orbs or ghostly figures in their pictures.

Remember, if you’re yearning for more information on this enigmatic attraction, a quick search will reveal its website and Facebook page .

They’re chock-full of fascinating tidbits and visitor information to help plan your trip.

To make your journey as smooth as possible, use this map to find your way to the Coral Castle’s enchanting realm.

Where: 28655 S Dixie Hwy, Homestead, FL 33033

So, are you ready to explore the Coral Castle and uncover its secrets for yourself?

Could Edward Leedskalnin’s spirit really be lingering among the stones, ensuring his life’s work continues to enchant and mystify?

Why not pay a visit and see what you can feel in the air—and maybe, just maybe, in the depths of your own heart?

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• The First MICHELIN Key Hotels: All the Keys in the United States

The MICHELIN Guide announces top honors for U.S. hotels in 2024.

Hotels NYC California Washington D.C. MICHELIN Keys

New York City by The MICHELIN Guide

See the New York City guide

On April 24, 2024, the MICHELIN Guide revealed the brand new list of One, Two, and Three Key hotels in the United States. In this first ever announcement of MICHELIN Keys in the United States, hotels in Atlanta, California, Chicago, Colorado, Florida, New York, and Washington DC were eligible for the distinction. This announcement of the most outstanding hotels in the country comes four years into a comprehensive refresh of our hotel selection. The MICHELIN Guide now includes over 5,000 hotels across the world, and not a single one is simply a room for the night. These are places that significantly add to your experience as a traveler, each vetted and judged excellent in five categories: architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, overall personality and character, value for the price, and a significant contribution to the guest experience in a particular setting. Which brings us back to the Keys. The culmination of countless hours of evaluation by our team of experts, the Key hotels below represent the highlights of our broader selection. Like the MICHELIN Stars for restaurants, the MICHELIN Keys are our most outstanding hotels. In total, the 2024 MICHELIN Guide hotel selection in the United States includes 11 Three Key hotels, 33 Two Key hotels, and 80 One Key hotels. Want to know more about the MICHELIN Key? Here’s everything you need to know . Or, head below to look at all the Keys.

How To Look Through the List

Jump straight to the list or take a deeper dive into select key hotels..

Take a peek at SingleThread, the five room inn with Three Keys and Three Stars. Explore the one street in Chicago that leads to seven Key hotels. Or find out more the Cliff House suite at our only Three Key hotel in Big Sur, California. Subscribe to our newsletter for more like this.

Highlights of the United States 2024 Key Hotel List

The Three Key Club in New York City

Expect: The highest luxury and impeccable design in Soho, Midtown, and the Financial District. Within the small club of Three Key hotels in the United States, four make their home in New York City. The Aman New York (Midtown) and Casa Cipriani (the Financial District) both make use of glamorous Beaux Arts buildings, the former a gold-crowned skyscraper in Midtown, the latter a glamorously restored ferry terminal at the very southern tip of Manhattan. Each is a refuge: an elegant, painstakingly designed escape from bustling city life. Meanwhile, two Firmdale hotels round out the list of Three Key hotels in New York City. Each is a quintessential example of the style and execution of the group’s co-owner and interior designer, Kit Kemp. Click the links here to explore the whirl of colors and collage of art that define the Crosby Street (Soho) and the Whitby Hotel (Midtown). Also read: Every Three Key Hotel in Paris

Jewels on the Coast: Up and Down California

Its sheer breadth of size and variety means it’s no surprise to announce California as the state with the most Key hotels in America. Here, we’ll point you towards coastal gems like the sublime architectural achievements in Big Sur ( Post Ranch Inn and Ventana ), beachside luxuries in Santa Monica (in particular: the newly opened Georgian ), and wine country favorites like SingleThread and the Madrona . What we love: how each one of these hotels opens the door to the very best of their locations — and gives us a look at each setting through fresh eyes.

Across America: The Golden Age of Celebrity

Our French Keys bask in the tradition of ancient vineyards, stone chateaus, and historic palaces. In the United States, we see a different tradition. In Los Angeles, places like Chateau Marmont , the Paramour Estate , Sunset Tower , and the Charlie date back to guests and residents as illustrious as Clark Gable and Marilyn Monroe. These are spaces that play ingeniously with their history, even as they forge ahead with cutting-edge amenities and experiences. But it’s not just California. New York’s historic artist hotspot, the Hotel Chelsea , once hosted Bob Dylan and Andy Warhol. Today, it decorates every space with art donated by former residents. Look too to the Chicago Athletic Association , a former member’s club for 20th century business magnates and athletes — now among the city’s most impressive and vibrant hotels. Also read: Hollywood Glamor at the First Key Hotels in Los Angeles

Click below to jump to each distinction: 

The three key hotels.

California (Beverly Hills):  The Beverly Hills Hotel, Dorchester Collection California (Big Sur): Post Ranch Inn California (Healdsburg): SingleThread Inn California (Los Angeles):  Hotel Bel-Air, Dorchester Collection California (Rutherford):  Auberge du Soleil, Auberge Resorts Collection California (St. Helena):  Meadowood Napa Valley California (Woodside):  Canyon Ranch Woodside New York (NYC):  Aman New York New York (NYC):  Casa Cipriani New York New York (NYC):  Crosby Street Hotel, Firmdale Hotels New York (NYC):  The Whitby Hotel, Firmdale Hotels

NEW: New York by The MICHELIN Guide – expert insights on where to dine, stay and explore

The two key hotels.

California (Beverly Hills): L'Ermitage Beverly Hills California (Beverly Hills): The Maybourne Beverly Hills California (Beverly Hills): The Peninsula Beverly Hills California (Carmel Valley): Bernardus Lodge & Spa California (Big Sur): Ventana Big Sur California (Guerneville): The Stavrand California (Healdsburg): Montage Healdsburg California (Healdsburg): The Madrona California (Laguna Beach): Montage Laguna Beach California (Montecito): Rosewood Miramar Beach California (Napa):  Milliken Creek Inn & Spa California (San Francisco):  Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at Embarcadero California (San Francisco):  The Battery California (Sausalito):  Cavallo Point Lodge California (West Hollywood): Chateau Marmont California (West Hollywood):  Pendry West Hollywood California (Yountville):  Bardessono California (Yountville):  North Block Washington D.C.:  Rosewood Washington, D.C.   Washington D.C.:  The Jefferson Florida (Miami):  Mayfair House Hotel & Garden Florida (Miami Beach):  Faena Hotel Miami Beach Florida (Miami Beach):  Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club Florida (Miami Beach):  The Setai Miami Beach   Illinois (Chicago): Pendry Chicago Illinois (Chicago):  The Langham, Chicago Illinois (Chicago):  The Peninsula Chicago New York (NYC): Hotel Barrière Fouquet's New York New York (NYC):  Nine Orchard  New York (NYC):  Pendry Manhattan West New York (NYC): The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel New York (NYC): The Fifth Avenue Hotel New York (NYC):  The Mark Hotel

The One Key Hotels

Washington D.C.

Hero Image: Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection — Aspen, Colorado

In Photos: Every Three Key Hotel in New York City

The ins and outs of the most outstanding hotels in the city.

The Most Outrageous Design Hotel In Miami

The Faena Miami Beach is a Two Key hotel with a $15 million gilded woolly mammoth.

A Brief Guide to All the Key Hotels in Washington D.C.

Seven hotels earned at least one MICHELIN Key in Washington D.C.

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Inside the Top Suite of the Only Three Key Hotel in Big Sur

The so-called "Cliff House" has the views you're looking for.

SingleThread: The 5-Room Inn with Three Keys and Three Stars

Revered for its Three MICHELIN Star restaurant and biodynamic farm, the SingleThread Inn earns Three Keys for its tiny, food-driven hotel.

Inside the Top Suite of Three Key Aman New York

The Aman Suite — among the most impressive suites in New York — brings the city to you.

The Guilty Pleasures of the Chicago Athletic Association

The One Key Chicago Athletic Association has had an illustrious and sometimes sordid history that dates back to 1893, when it wasn’t quite a hotel. A lot has changed since then, but the ghosts of the past are never far away.

Eaton DC Is a Launchpad for Progress

Katherine Lo’s Eaton DC isn’t just one of the best hotels in the United States capital. It’s also a headquarters for activism, community, social justice, and sustainability. And it’s not shy about it.

Key Street: Michigan Ave. Leads to 7 Key Hotels in Chicago

A brief guide to all the MICHELIN Key hotels in Chicago.

Hollywood Glamour at the First Key Hotels in Los Angeles

A brief guide to all the Key hotels in Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and Beverly Hills.

Chef Rob Rubba's Indefatigable Commitment to Sustainability

A Glass Act.

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