Florida, USA, is a haven for travelers seeking a diverse range of experiences. With its sunny weather, stunning beaches, and vibrant cities, the state offers an array of activities for every type of adventurer. From outdoor enthusiasts to culture seekers, here are some things to do in Florida, USA.
Begin your journey in the iconic city of Miami, where the fusion of Latin American and Caribbean influences creates a unique cultural tapestry. Explore the vibrant neighborhoods like Little Havana, known for its colorful murals, lively music, and delicious Cuban cuisine. Don't miss the famous South Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shores or take a stroll along the historic Ocean Drive.
Head west to the Everglades National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest tropical wilderness of any kind in North America. Embark on an airboat tour to witness the diverse wildlife, including alligators, manatees, and a variety of bird species. The Everglades truly showcase the beauty of Florida's natural landscapes.
Things To Do In Florida USA
For theme park enthusiasts, Orlando is a must-visit destination. With Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld Orlando, the city is a paradise for thrill-seekers and families alike. Experience the magic of Disney, explore the wizarding world of Harry Potter, and encounter marine life at SeaWorld.
If you're a nature lover, the Florida Keys offer a unique and picturesque escape. Drive along the scenic Overseas Highway to Key West, the southernmost point of the continental United States. Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, and witness the breathtaking sunset at Mallory Square.
Explore the cultural side of Florida in St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States. Wander through cobblestone streets, visit historic landmarks such as the Castillo de San Marcos, and immerse yourself in the city's rich Spanish colonial heritage. St. Augustine's charm and history make it a captivating destination.
For a taste of luxury and glamour, head to Palm Beach. Known for its upscale shopping on Worth Avenue, pristine beaches, and lavish estates, Palm Beach offers a sophisticated retreat. Enjoy the opulent surroundings and indulge in fine dining at one of the many upscale restaurants.
Venture to the Gulf Coast and discover the enchanting beauty of the Clearwater Beach. Relax on the sugar-white sands, take a sunset cruise, and explore the vibrant beach town. Clearwater Beach is a perfect destination for those looking to unwind and enjoy the serene coastal atmosphere.
1. Take a Florida road trip
Florida is one of the largest states in America that begs you to slow down and get lost for a while. Why not rent a car, road trip through Florida, and enjoy an off-the-beaten-path experience?
North Florida has an incredible mix of forests and emerald beaches to explore — Florida's Panhandle is known as The Emerald Coast! The state of North Florida is rich in Spanish colonial history.
Travel the back roads of Central Florida and you're sure to come across classic diners, great flea markets, fruit and vegetable stands, and red brick court houses.
South Florida offers stunning beaches and coastal towns to explore on a road trip, along with some of Florida's most unique and local cuisine to try.
Tip: If you need a rental car, we recommend Discover Cars, an overall company that offers competitive rates and often the best deals you can find on your favorite rental car brands.
2. Everglades National Park
The Florida Everglades is the second largest national park in the United States covering millions of acres of subtropical wetlands and wetlands. Central Florida's Lake Okeechobee is the headwaters of the Everglades watershed system that flows south and west into Florida Gulf, and the park is a perfect habitat for wildlife. You can spot turtles, crocodiles, otters and even panthers in the park's unique ecosystem.
Mangrove kayaking, airboating, and even pole-boating are popular ways to tour the wetlands and get up close and personal with a variety of wildlife species. You can easily take a day trip to the Everglades while visiting Naples, Miami or Fort Lauderdale, a beach resort town popular with the LGBT+ community.
3. Florida's Nature Coast
Swim with manatees in the Crystal River, fish or paddle along the Chasahowitzka River at the Nature Coast, or get serious with some geocaching at Green Swamp Wilderness Preserve. It's a part of Florida that few people see outside of Disney, but only an hour or so away on the west coast.
On your way from Orlando, cruise through Dead City, and you might even see a few giraffes or a herd of zebras just wandering around. Of course, they're all safely tucked away behind a beautiful wooden fence around the 40-acre giraffe ranch, about five miles north of downtown, off Highway 301. Check out the farm and then make it an eco-weekend.
About an hour south, the town of Tarpon Springs is Florida's Greek sponge diving capital and a must-see.
4. Cycle the Withlacoochee State Trail
The Withlacoochee State Trail is a 46-mile long paved, non-motorized rail-to-trail in Citrus, Hernando and Pasco counties on the west coast of central Florida. The trail follows the Withlacoochee River through the Withlacoochee State Forest and is perfect for biking, walking and even horseback riding.
5. Deep sea fishing in Islamora
Islamorada in the Florida Keys is so close to the Gulf of Mexico, the Atlantic Ocean and Florida Bay that it has been called the "Sport-Fishing Capital of the World." Backwater fishing, saltwater fly fishing and trophy fishing for blue marlin are some of the fishing experiences here.
Private charters, party boats and boat rentals can take you to the species you are targeting. Dolphins, groupers, tuna, sailfish, cobia and tarpon are just a few of what can be found in these waters. If it swims, you can fish for it in Islamorada.
6. Ocala National Forest
The world's largest contiguous sand pine scrub forest (673 square miles), Ocala National Forest is an outdoor lover's dream. There are several scenic springs, including Juniper Springs, Alexander Springs, and Salt Springs Recreation Area, with natural pools for swimming and canoe runs for paddling.
There are hundreds of lakes and ponds, including Lake Kerr and the massive Lake George. Hikers can follow the Yearling Trail past a sinkhole and the remains of a 19th-century house. There are plenty of camping options that you can spend a few days exploring.
7. Mayakka State Park
One of Florida's largest parks, visiting Mayakka State Park in Sarasota is like stepping back in time. It should be on every nature enthusiast's bucket list. The river flows through 58 square miles of native forests, wetlands and prairies. Wildlife is abundant with birds, turtles, fish and of course alligators.
8. Fossil hunting
In the town of Acadia along the Peace River, fossil and relic hunters will be in heaven. Every year, fossils from the Miocene to early Pliocene age are uncovered along the Peace River Formation, anywhere from 23 to 25 million years old!
The layers of sand and gravel contain so many fossils, that the area attracts enthusiasts from all over the world to walk, kneel and drive to their heart's content.
9. MOTE Marine Laboratory
The Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium in Sarasota is a non-profit marine research facility dedicated to education and understanding of the aquatic life found in Florida. The number of exhibits here is incredible.
The aquarium includes hundreds of marine animal species, Florida sea turtles, a coral reef, manatees, river otters, alligators and 135,000 gallons of shark habitat.
10. St. Andrews State Park
Just 3 miles east of beautiful Panama City Beach, this park is a mecca for bird watchers and butterfly enthusiasts. With St. Andrews Bay on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other, make it an ideal getaway for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, boating, surfing, hiking, and camping.
11. Lowry Park Zoo
Home to more than 1,700 animals, Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo offers not only animal habitat, but also hands-on opportunities to interact with animals, including the chance to touch a giant tortoise or feed a giraffe.
12. Natural Springs of Florida
Orlando may be Central Florida's most talked-about city, but just minutes away when the scenery becomes more natural, it's easy to discover Central Florida's crystalline underworld, home to tranquil clear springs and abundant amazing wildlife.
Genie Springs, Blue Spring State Park, Devil's Den, Echetuknee Springs, Gilchrist Blue Springs, Rum Island Springs, and several others are located between Orlando and Gainesville and are worth a day trip to explore.
13. Scalloping in Homosassa
If you're wondering what to do in Crystal River during the summer, now that winter is over and the manatees are no longer huddled near the warm springs, go scalloping! Florida scalloping is the perfect summer fun idea for families and anyone who loves to get out on the water and find your freshest seafood.
14. Seacrest Wolf Preserve
This unique wolf preserve in the Florida Panhandle offers visitors a rare opportunity to see real wolves up close. Located in Chippewa, a short 1.5 hour drive from Tallahassee and 45 minutes from Panama City, Seacrest Wolf Preserve has several tours you can take to learn more about these majestic animals.
15. Dry Tortugas National Park
Visit this fantastic historic fort on a history and snorkeling tour from Key West. Dry Tortugas National Park consists of 7 islands perfect for snorkeling with protected coral reefs. If you prefer remote camping, there are numerous sites on Garden Key, home to 19th-century Fort Jefferson, with secluded beaches, and a lighthouse on Loggerhead Reef.
16. Florida Caverns State Park
This unique park with amazing caves is located in Marianna, Florida's Panhandle. A tour will take you from cave to cave showing stalagmites and stalactites among other formations. A visit here is a taste of Florida's natural beauty.
17. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
The nation's first underwater state park in Key Largo is just off the world's third largest barrier reef. The park is 25 miles long and stretches 3 miles into the Atlantic Ocean - an absolute must for divers and snorkelers.
18. Dali Museum
The Dali Museum is dedicated to world-renowned surrealist artist Salvador Dali. Located in St. Petersburg, Florida, the museum boasts the world's second most extensive collection of his works. Explore the museum and enjoy viewing over 2,400 works by the famous artist.
Guided public tours of the gallery are available to enhance your visit so you can learn all the hidden messages, symbolism and history about this one-of-a-kind artist.
19. Matlachar Arti Island
Matlacha, a small spit of land between North Cape Coral and Pine Island on the southwest Florida mainland, is Florida's most unexpected and colorful little town. Visit the galleries and gardens of local artist Leoma Lovegrove and have lunch at one of several fun, salty bars on the water.
20. Clyde Butcher's Gallery in Ochopee
Photographer Clyde Butcher is renowned not only in Florida, but around the world for his epic large-format black and white photographs of Florida's most beautiful natural landscapes. His gallery and former home deep in the Everglades are worth a visit when you're out exploring the wetlands.
21. Coconut Grove
If you're looking for the fun and fun side of Miami, head to The Grove - Coconut Grove, Miami's oldest continuously inhabited area. The Grove is pedestrian and bike-friendly, lined with towering oak trees to help shade you as you stroll from Bahamian cafes to bohemian shops.
It's low-key and relaxed compared to South Beach's pretty people vibe, and the art scene here is not to be missed. From sidewalk art festivals to gallery shows, it's a great place to visit with a modern and family-friendly twist
22. Ringling Museum and CA D'Jean Mansion
Located in Sarasota, the Ringling Museum and Ca d'Zan Mansion are an off-the-beaten-path destination for the average Florida tourist. Picking up a rental car will help you see more of the hidden gems. Ultimately, both are worth the short drive from other parts of the state.
Once owned by John Ringling of the Ringling Brothers Circus, this palace and museum was commissioned by Ringling himself and modeled after a Venetian palace overlooking Sarasota Bay. Today, it houses an incredible variety owned by the Ringlings that they collected over the years
23. Kennedy Space Center
NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida is a major attraction that chronicles the history of space travel with historic spacecraft and various space artifacts on display. It has an IMAX movie theater and a rocket launch simulator within the complex. You can see exhibits highlighting the Apollo program and even see pieces of moon rock.
There is also a memorial within the space station called the Space Mirror, which honors astronauts who have lost their lives in the line of duty in space exploration.
24. The Venetian Pool
Except in Coral Gables, Florida, you'll never see a pool or aquatic facility like this one. Carved from a coral rock quarry nearly 100 years ago, the 820,000 gallon pool is filled with spring water from artesian wells and is drained and refilled daily during spring and summer.
Along with the pool there are two waterfalls and two large historical towers with views of the surrounding area. Porticos, lots of palm trees and a signature bridge make it a very pleasant place to visit on a hot Florida day.
25. Miccosukee Reservation
The Miccosukee Reservation is the private homestead of the Miccosukee Tribe of Native Americans located in several counties in South Florida. Although the reservation is private, locals operate several small businesses in the area, including casinos, airboats, attractions, gift shops, and restaurants.
Many of these are accessible along Alligator Alley, the stretch of I-75 between Miami and Naples, where you can visit an alligator wrestling show and pick up some fresh fry bread (a Miccosukee specialty).
26. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
A beautiful Italian Renaissance villa built in 1916 is now a wonderful museum in Miami with original furniture and artwork, and surrounded by beautiful formal gardens. Take the guided tour and plan around 3 hours to explore the villa and gardens.
27. St. Augustine
St. Augustine is the first European settlement and the oldest city in Florida. This historic Old Town St. Augustine is another major attraction and is only a 45 minute drive from Jacksonville. Explore the old town and take a "Spooky Experience" tour to learn about the settlement's history and ghostly legends.
This tour will take you along the lantern-lit cobblestone streets of St. Augustine to explore quaint storefronts, old churches, and cemeteries.
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, St. Augustine, Florida Bucket List
An original cannon at Castillo de San Marcos National Monument in St. Augustine, Florida
28. Tour Flagler College
This private college is filled with exquisite stained glass windows, beautiful architecture and wonderful history. It is also open to the public and visitors can take daily tours of the campus to learn more about the history of the college and the city.
29. Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
This former home and museum of world-renowned American novelist Ernest Hemingway is a must-see in Key West, the southernmost point of the Sunshine State. Modern home with beautiful gardens surrounding the home, one of the largest in Key West. Visitors can tour the property and discover fascinating interiors as well as fascinating details about Hemingway's life.
Since the famous author was very fond of cats, you will find lots of cats on the ground. In fact, some of these are even descendants of Hemingway's own cats - you can tell which one they are by their unusual 6 toes.
You can't spend the night here, but if your literary wanderlust gets the better of you, there are plenty of cool Airbnbs and conch hotels nearby where you can imagine Ernest retreating by day.
30. Tallahassee
History-loving Florida visitors should make a beeline for the state capital city of Tallahassee, a city that will surprise you. Some of the state's most fascinating cultural history can be found here, including Florida's early Spanish colonial and Native American history.
You'll also find excellent restaurants, breweries, culture and a vibrant community of local artisans, thespians and more to tune your cultural heartstrings beautifully.
31. Eat all seafood
We can't talk about the incredible things to do in Florida and not mention one of its most important assets - amazing food! There are all kinds of delicious desserts to try, like fresh Florida citrus, soft serve creamy ice cream from the Florida Orange Grove stand, and other great local Florida treats.
But it wouldn't be a trip to Florida without eating some or all of the succulent seafood. From fresh Florida stone crabs, mahi mahi and Gulf Coast shrimp to red snapper, fried conch, and more to count, it's fresh and very tasty.
32. See St. Augustine Distillery
This small batch distillery in America's oldest city is known for their finely distilled spirits using locally sourced ingredients. Tours are free and run 30 minutes from 10:30am, with the last tour starting at 5:00pm.
See how they make pot-distilled rum, cane vodka, gin and a special barrel-finished gin that's extraordinary, then head upstairs to the Ice Plant for a unique cocktail expertly crafted the old-fashioned way.
33. Eat at Joe's Stone Crab (Miami).
You can't visit Miami Beach without experiencing this historic restaurant. Established in 1913 as a lunch counter, the restaurant is now a seafood empire but still has a classic feel about it. Always offering fresh seafood, Joe's Stone can get quite busy during crab claw season, October through May, so be sure to make a reservation in advance.
34. Visit the Flora-Bama Lounge
Country music fans aren't the only ones who will enjoy this down-home beachside bar and grill in Perdido Key on the Florida-Alabama border made famous by Kenny Chesney. The prime location on the bay is perfect for sightseeing, but it's the live music, local oysters and daily tropical vibe that keep everyone partying late into the night.
35. Ybor City
Just northeast of downtown Tampa, this vibrant and historic neighborhood is filled with charming boutiques and vintage shops, but foodies will fall in love with Cuban cuisine. Founded by Cuban immigrants in the late 1800s, Ybor City is Tampa Bay's Latin Quarter, still retaining its Cuban roots and preserving some truly unique charms.
La Tropicana Cafe is good for breakfast or lunch, but for dinner, don't miss Columbia Restaurant - they've been serving exceptional Cuban-Spanish cuisine for over a century.
36. Disney World
Disney's Magic Kingdom is one of Orlando's most popular theme parks and one of the many magical places to visit at Walt Disney World Resort. Cinderella's Castle is the centerpiece and icon of the park, shaped like a wheel with spokes in the center. Passengers can travel around the park on a narrow-gauge steam engine, known as the Walt Disney World Railroad.
The steam engine stops at Main Street, U.S.A., Frontierland, and Fantasyland. Explore the Magic Kingdom with family or friends and also check out the various themed restaurants and dining options located throughout the park, with a growing selection of vegetarian and vegan dining options at various locations.
37. SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando is an aquatic theme park and Orlando's main marine attraction. The park contains numerous marine habitats and offers plenty of opportunities to see marine wildlife. The theme park is divided into different zones known as "oceans" and each of those oceans features a different aspect of the ocean.
Families with children will enjoy the live shows at Sea World. Visitors can also enjoy the various rides and try the various dining and shopping options within the park.
38. Epcot
Epcot Center is truly one of the most magical places on earth and once inside, you will be taken through 12 different unique destinations based on replicas of each country represented. You will feel like you are in the country and have an authentic experience.
Each country features its own architecture, traditional clothing, food, drinks and souvenir shops featuring costumed cast members. You could be in England the next moment enjoying fish and chips or in Germany gorging on fluffy pretzels.
39. Murder Mystery Dinner Train
See Southwest Florida from the comfort of your dining car along the historic Seminole Gulf Railroad while a live murder mystery show plays out. For more than 30 seasons, the unique Murder Mystery Dinner Train dining and theater experience has rolled out of Ft. Myers on a forty mile, 3 and a half hour round trip of mystery and fun. Try one for dinner or check out their holiday-themed rides throughout the year.
40. Universal Studios
The 800+ acre Universal Studios entertainment theme park and production studio in Orlando features three unique parks: Universal Studios, Adventure Island and Volcano Bay Waterpark, and more fun than you can imagine. It's really fun for kids big and small, but adults will especially love the Universal CityWalk, a destination for shopping, dining and dancing.
Or take in a performance of the long-running Cirque du Soleil show, La Nouba. Ride the Hogwarts Express to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, every Muggle's favorite!
41. Orlando Resorts
Orlando is known as a family destination with kids enjoying the various attraction parks. But when you've had your fill of theme parks and even done some great day trips from Orlando, the city has a lot more to offer than the typical family vacation. Resorts are great places to experience some seriously fine dining at a variety of signature restaurants.
If you need more relaxation in addition to delicious food, try the on-site spa, outdoor hot tub, pool and cabanas. In the evening you can visit the Universal City Walk, where the sun goes down.
There is a mix of fantastic food, banging, crazy clubs and magical music. Orlando is a great city worth visiting. You're never too old to have a great trip to this popular Florida destination.
42. Legoland
Another must-do while in Florida is Legoland, located in Winter Haven and designed specifically for children under 12. In this theme park, you will find plenty of rides, shows and attractions, all designed for the little ones Made for kids who love Legos, with the audience in mind.
Check out the LEGO Bricks experience or enjoy a variety of VIP offers with your family at this fun theme park that also includes a water park and a factory tour of where LEGO bricks are made.
43. Sanibel and Captiva
Southwest Florida travel offers a lot to Florida first timers who love nature and a truly natural coastal experience. And if you love treasure-hunting and beach-combing, you must shell out on Sanibel Island.
Not only are Sanibel and Captiva among the most beautiful beaches in Florida, this part of Florida is known as the Shelling Capital of the United States, and so on!
44. Clearwater Beach
Year after year Clearwater Beach has been voted one of the best in Florida with its soft white sand beaches. If you can do it on the water, it's here - try stand-up paddle boarding, jet skiing or parasailing. There are plenty of beaches up and down and stretches of equipment rental beaches.
Be sure to catch a fiery sunset at a beachside cafe or casual seafood restaurant.
45. Hunting for shark's teeth in Venice
Venice, Florida on the West Gulf Coast offers something truly unique to beach-loving travelers – prehistoric shark teeth by the bucketful! These shark teeth can also be found in Florida and on the Atlantic side of the state.
But these little gems, blackened from fossils, are abundant in Venice (known as "The Shark's Tooth Capital of the World")—it's suggested you rent a "Florida snow shovel," basically a wire basket on a long stick. take it Drive through the sand without using your hands.
And the reward is immediate - you'll pull out a handful of fossilized shark teeth with each scoop! Divers can easily go 15-20 yards offshore and find huge teeth that will be the envy of fellow fossil hunters everywhere.
46. Miami South Beach
Most visitors to Miami can't wait to soak up the sun on one of the spectacular beaches along Miami's 30-mile stretch of coastline. A fun place to people watch while enjoying the very popular and glamorous South Beach. South Beach is cool, chic and a popular place to see and be seen but watch out for the red ropes. If you manage to get into the right club, you might even spot a celebrity.
The club scene in the city center is friendly and low pressure, with lots of fun dancing and drinking. Going from pub to club is easy, with a more inclusive atmosphere and fewer restrictions on entry.
47. Naples Botanical Garden
The Naples Botanical Garden in Southwest Florida spans 170 acres of beautiful grounds that are well kept and curated. It's a natural and quiet part of Florida, perfect for a slow trip to the Paradise Coast.
The gardens showcase the diverse ecosystems of the region and boast over a thousand different plant species. Balinese gardens are serene and a perfect place for meditation and reflection. Smith Gardens is particularly fun for families and is a kid-friendly area and other areas within the garden feature ponds, scenic pathways as well as shops and cafes.
Check out the seasonal exhibits and celebrations as well as the impressive flower shows that take place throughout the year. The botanical gardens are one of the many fun things to do in Naples that most travelers come to visit - the best beaches in Naples.
48. Bonnet House Museum and Gardens
If you're looking for a slice of vintage Ft. Lauderdale, be sure and visit the Bonnet House. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this 35-acre, 1920s historic estate on Fort Lauderdale Beach is the former winter home of artists Frederick and Evelyn Fortune Bartlett. Yet unlike the other grand show-palace houses of the day, Bonnet House feels unique - approachable and very quaint.
Both the house and garden are well preserved in their original 1930s and 40s era and retain the intimate feel of the house. Take a guided tour of the house and garden — the orchid greenhouse is dreamy with 1,500 orchids.
49. Buck Tower and Gardens
One of the most popular and unique places to visit in Florida is the 205-foot-tall "Seeing Tower" surrounded by 250-acres of lush gardens at Lake Wales Buck Tower and Gardens - so named because of the carillon bell concerts that are played throughout the day. It's fun year-round, but spring is the ideal time to visit when all the colorful flowers are in bloom.
50. Explore the Sunken Gardens
Walk the hidden paths through St. Pete's Sunken Gardens with its stunning landscape and sparkling waterfalls in a tropical paradise. The gardens are a living museum and home to the area's oldest and most unusual exotic plants.
FAQ
Q1: What are some popular tourist attractions in Florida, USA?
A1: The Sunshine State offers various attractions, including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, South Beach, the Everglades, and the Kennedy Space Center.
Q2: How is the weather in Florida throughout the year?
A2: Florida experiences a subtropical climate, characterized by hot and humid summers, with temperatures ranging from 75°F to 95°F, and mild winters, ranging from 55°F to 75°F.
Q3: Are there any beautiful beaches in Florida?
A3: Absolutely! Florida boasts stunning beaches like Clearwater Beach, South Beach, Siesta Key, and Cocoa Beach, known for their white sands and crystal-clear waters.
Q4: What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in Florida?
A4: Visitors can indulge in a variety of outdoor activities, including snorkeling in the Florida Keys, hiking in the Everglades, exploring the state parks, and enjoying water sports along the coastline.
Q5: Are there family-friendly attractions in Florida?
A5: Yes, Florida is perfect for families. Explore family-friendly places like Walt Disney World, Legoland Florida, the Miami Seaquarium, and the Tampa Bay History Center for an enriching experience for all ages.
Conclusion: Florida, USA, is a diverse playground with countless things to do. Whether you seek adventure in theme parks, natural wonders in the Everglades, or cultural richness in historic cities, the state has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, soak up the sunshine, and embark on an unforgettable journey filled with exciting "things to do in Florida, USA.