Details for Florida
All over the globe, Florida is known as the home of the theme park where kids and adults step out of their everyday lives into worlds of wonder, complete with heart-pounding roller coaster rides. Yes, that’s true but there are many other Florida attractions to fill out a vacation schedule. Attractions in Florida (that aren’t theme parks) can satisfy a variety of getaway dreams, be they laid-back or adventure-centric.
The state’s 1,300-mile coastline plus the multitude of inland tributaries and lakes make Florida a No. 1 choice for watersports. Boating, fishing, all manner of paddling and swimming are prime activities throughout the state. Sunrise can be seen on the state’s east coast while sunset is a main attraction on the west coast. Since the peninsula is less than 200-miles wide, a traveler can witness both in one day.
Everglades National Park and Dry Tortugas National Park are just two of the state’s most prized natural preserves. The 19th century Fort Jefferson at the Dry Tortugas, reachable only by watercraft, is one of those places that make you rub your eyes and wonder if you’ve left the United States. It is that exotic. Likewise the Everglades, which is teeming with wildlife found nowhere else in the U.S. The “river of grass” is one of the state’s most important ecosystems and an airboat tour across it introduces travelers to its uniqueness.
Visitors heading to Key West on the Overseas Highway, a bucket-list drive, often stop to feed the tarpon at Robbie’s in Islamorada. The large silver fish are prized sports catches but seeing them this close is an experience to tell the folks back home.
South Florida is the home to Fairchild Tropical Garden, a vast botanical attraction that has an annual orchid odyssey and an international mango festival, too. The world’s foremost experts on this tropical fruit do scientific research here and it’s a mecca for tropical fruit lovers. Likewise the Fruit & Spice Park in Homestead.
The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex at Cape Canaveral is a must-stop for would-be space travelers. The history of the area and the U.S. space program is fascinating and entertaining, too. Farther up the coast is America’s oldest city, St. Augustine and the 16th century Castillo de San Marcos fort.
Travelers’ definitions of attractions differ, but there’s no doubt Florida will satisfy each one. To one, designer consignment shops in Palm Beach might be heaven (or the Aventura Mall and its 2.7-million-square-feet of shops), and to another, seeing a college football game at the University of Florida’s “Swamp” or Florida State University’s Doak S. Campbell Stadium might be on the top of the must-do list. And many might not know that 30 lighthouses, some of which are open to the public, guard the coastline.
The best time to visit Florida is during the winter months, from December to April, when the weather is mild and dry. This period is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the state's beaches and attractions without the intense heat and humidity of summer.
Florida is home to a wide range of attractions, including Walt Disney World and Universal Studios in Orlando, the beaches of Miami, the Everglades National Park, and the historic city of St. Augustine. Each offers unique experiences, from thrilling theme parks to natural wonders and historical sites.
Traveling around Florida is easiest by car, as it allows flexibility to explore both urban and rural areas. Major cities like Miami and Orlando have public transportation options, but renting a car is recommended for visiting multiple destinations and exploring off-the-beaten-path locations.
Florida's cuisine is diverse, with influences from Latin America and the Caribbean. Must-try dishes include fresh seafood like stone crab and grouper, Cuban sandwiches, and Key Lime pie. Don't forget to try a refreshing glass of Florida orange juice or a mojito.
Florida hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, such as the Miami International Film Festival in March, the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival in the fall, and the Florida Strawberry Festival in Plant City. These events offer a taste of local culture, cuisine, and entertainment.
From Miami, consider day trips to the Florida Keys for snorkeling and diving, the Everglades for wildlife tours, or the vibrant art scene in Wynwood. Each offers a distinct experience, from natural beauty to cultural exploration.
While Florida is generally safe for travelers, it's important to be aware of weather-related risks such as hurricanes, particularly from June to November. Always check weather forecasts and follow local advisories. In urban areas, practice common safety precautions as you would in any major city.
