Florida, known as the “Sunshine State,” is a diverse and vibrant destination offering a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all interests. From its beautiful beaches and natural wonders to its world-famous theme parks and cultural treasures, Florida has something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore what to do when visiting Florida, helping you plan an unforgettable trip to this remarkable state.

1. Enjoy Florida’s Beautiful Beaches

Florida is renowned for its pristine beaches with powdery sand and clear waters. Whether you’re looking for a tranquil spot to relax or a lively beach for water sports, Florida has it all:

• Miami Beach: Known for its vibrant nightlife and art deco architecture, Miami Beach is a must-visit destination.
• Clearwater Beach: A family-friendly beach with soft white sand and calm waters.
• Daytona Beach: Famous for its hard-packed sand, Daytona is a hotspot for motorsports enthusiasts.
• Naples Beach: A serene and upscale beach with a relaxed atmosphere.
• Siesta Key Beach: Known for its soft, powdery quartz sand and beautiful sunsets.

Don’t forget to take part in water activities like swimming, snorkeling, surfing, and paddleboarding.

2. Explore the Everglades

The Florida Everglades is a unique and protected ecosystem, often referred to as the “River of Grass.” Here’s what you can do:

• Airboat Tours: Take an airboat ride to explore the wetlands and see alligators, birds, and other wildlife.
• Wildlife Viewing: Visit the Big Cypress National Preserve and Everglades National Park for wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Hiking Trails: Explore the park’s hiking trails and boardwalks to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Everglades.

3. Visit Iconic Theme Parks

Florida is home to some of the world’s most famous theme parks and entertainment complexes. Here are a few you shouldn’t miss:

• Walt Disney World Resort: Experience the magic of Disney at the sprawling resort in Orlando, which includes multiple theme parks, water parks, and entertainment options.
• Universal Orlando Resort: Explore Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay for thrilling rides and attractions.
• Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: A mix of thrilling rides and a zoo, offering fun for all ages.
• LEGOLAND Florida Resort: Ideal for families with young children, this park features LEGO-themed rides and attractions.

4. Discover Natural Springs

Florida is home to numerous natural springs that offer a refreshing escape from the heat. Some popular springs to visit include:

• Wekiwa Springs State Park: Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and paddling in crystal-clear waters.
• Ginnie Springs: Known for its picturesque turquoise spring and tubing opportunities.
• Rainbow Springs State Park: Explore the gardens and waterfalls surrounding this beautiful spring.

5. Explore Cultural Attractions

Florida has a rich cultural heritage, with museums, historical sites, and performing arts venues that showcase its history and diversity:

• The Ringling: Located in Sarasota, this museum complex includes art, circus exhibits, and beautiful gardens.
• Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: Learn about space exploration and NASA’s history on Florida’s Space Coast.
• St. Augustine: Explore the historic streets of America’s oldest city, known for its Spanish colonial architecture.

6. Enjoy Outdoor Activities

For outdoor enthusiasts, Florida offers a plethora of recreational activities:

• Golf: Florida is a golfer’s paradise with numerous world-class golf courses.
• Fishing: From deep-sea fishing in the Gulf of Mexico to freshwater fishing in the state’s many lakes, Florida offers excellent angling opportunities.
• Cycling: Explore the state’s scenic trails and bike-friendly communities.
• Kayaking and Canoeing: Paddle through mangrove forests, rivers, and coastal waters to discover Florida’s diverse ecosystems.

7. Experience Wildlife Encounters

Florida is home to an incredible array of wildlife. You can enjoy wildlife encounters through various activities:

• Manatee Watching: Crystal River and Homosassa Springs are popular spots to observe manatees, especially in the winter months.
• Alligator Safaris: Take guided tours to see alligators and other wildlife in their natural habitats.
• Sea Turtle Nesting: Witness sea turtle nesting and hatching on select Florida beaches.

8. Explore the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys offer a unique and laid-back atmosphere. Key West, the southernmost city in the continental U.S., is a popular destination known for its vibrant nightlife, historic sites, and beautiful sunsets. You can also explore the other keys, each offering its own charm and recreational opportunities.

9. Enjoy Culinary Delights

Florida’s cuisine is a fusion of various influences, including Caribbean, Latin American, and Southern flavors. Don’t miss these culinary experiences:

• Fresh Seafood: Savor the state’s delicious seafood, including stone crab, grouper, and shrimp.
• Key Lime Pie: Try the iconic Florida dessert, key lime pie.
• Cuban Sandwich: Sample a classic Cuban sandwich in Tampa’s Ybor City.
• Farmers’ Markets: Visit local farmers’ markets for fresh produce and artisanal products.

10. Relax on a Cruise

Florida is a hub for cruise departures, making it easy to explore the Caribbean, the Bahamas, and other exotic destinations. Consider embarking on a cruise from major Florida ports like Miami, Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale), and Port Canaveral.

11. Attend Festivals and Events

Florida hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. Some notable ones include:

• Gasparilla Pirate Festival: A Tampa tradition with a pirate-themed parade and festivities.
• Miami Art Week: An art extravaganza featuring Art Basel Miami Beach and numerous satellite events.
• Florida Strawberry Festival: Held in Plant City, this festival celebrates strawberries with entertainment and rides.

12. Relax and Unwind

Sometimes the best thing to do in Florida is nothing at all. Many visitors come to Florida to relax and unwind:

• Spa Retreats: Enjoy luxurious spa treatments and wellness programs at Florida’s world-class resorts.
• Beachfront Relaxation: Lounge on the beach with a good book and enjoy the sound of the waves.
• Sunsets and Sunrises: Florida offers stunning sunsets on the Gulf Coast and breathtaking sunrises on the Atlantic Coast.

13. Explore Ecotourism Opportunities

Florida’s natural beauty extends beyond its beaches. Consider ecotourism activities like:

• Bird Watching: Florida is a hotspot for birdwatching, with numerous bird species to spot.
• Swamp Tours: Take guided tours through the state’s swamps and wetlands.
• Shark Diving: Brave souls can go shark diving off the coast.

14. Attend Sporting Events

Florida is home to several professional sports teams, and attending a game can be an exciting experience. Cheer for the Miami Dolphins, Orlando Magic, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, or any of the state’s other sports teams.

15. Shopping and Retail Therapy

Florida offers excellent shopping opportunities, from upscale boutiques to outlet malls. Don’t forget to explore the shopping