Must Do Things in Florida: A Guide to the State’s Best Attractions and Experiences
Florida, the Sunshine State, is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. With its mild climate, beautiful beaches, and diverse wildlife, it’s no wonder why Florida stands out as a top choice for many. However, with so much to see and do, it can be difficult to know where to start. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide to the must-do things in Florida, covering the state’s best attractions, experiences, and activities.
Top Attractions:
- Everglades National Park: A unique and fascinating ecosystem that’s home to a vast array of wildlife, including alligators, birds, and mammals. Take an airboat tour or hike through the park’s diverse landscapes to get up close and personal with the natural beauty of the Everglades.
| Attraction | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Everglades National Park | Miami-Dade and Broward counties | Explore the Everglades’ diverse landscapes, including mangrove forests, sawgrass marshes, and bald cypress swamps. |
Beaches:
- Clearwater Beach: A popular beach destination on the Gulf Coast, known for its soft white sand and calm waters. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball.
| Beach | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Clearwater Beach | Pinellas County | Sandy and calm waters, large stretch of beach |
| Miami Beach**: A vibrant and lively beach destination on the Atlantic Coast, known for its art deco architecture, white sand beaches, and energetic nightlife. |
| Beach | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Siesta Key Beach**: A pristine and picturesque beach in Sarasota County, known for its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. |
Cultural Attractions:
- Vizcaya Museum and Gardens: A stunning estate and museum in Miami, featuring an impressive collection of European art and furnishings, as well as beautiful gardens and grounds. Admission: around $20
| Attraction | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum: A historic house museum in Key West, dedicated to the life and work of the famous author. Admission: around $20** |
| Attraction | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USS491): Bay of Pigs Invasion Museum: A museum in Key West, showcasing the history of the Bay of Pigs invasion and the Cuban Revolution. Admission: around $10** |
Outdoor Adventures:
- Kayaking: Explore Florida’s waterways and marine life by kayak, a great way to experience the state’s diverse ecosystems. Admission: around $20-$50 per hour
| Adventure | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Airboat Tours: Take an airboat ride through the Everglades, exploring the state’s unique ecosystems and spotting wildlife. Admission: around $20-$50 per person |
| Adventure | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Snorkeling or Scuba Diving: Explore Florida’s coral reefs and marine life, a great way to experience the state’s underwater beauty. Admission: around $50-$100 per person |
Food and Drink:
- Fresh Seafood: Try some of Florida’s freshest seafood, including stone crab claws, conch fritters, and seafood towers. Admission: around $10-$30 per entree
| Food | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| The Fish House: A seafood restaurant in Key West, serving up fresh catches and seafood classics. Admission: around $20-$50 per entree** |
| Food | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| The Capital Grille: An upscale steakhouse in Miami, serving up high-quality meats and seafood. Admission: around $50-$100 per entree** |
Music and Entertainment:
- Cruise the Coast: Take a relaxing cruise along Florida’s coast, exploring the state’s many marinas and ports. Admission: around $50-$100 per person
| Experience | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Live Music Venues: Experience the state’s vibrant music scene, with many live music venues and festivals throughout the year. Admission: free or around $10-$20 per event |
| Experience | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Museums: Visit some of Florida’s many museums, including the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens and the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. Admission: around $10-$20 per person |
Seasonal Events:
- Sunset Cruises: Enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise along Florida’s coast, with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the state’s stunning sunsets. Admission: around $50-$100 per person
| Experience | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Festivals: Attend one of Florida’s many festivals, including the Key West Lobsterfest and the Miami Blues Festival. Admission: free or around $10-$20 per event |
Tips and Tricks:
- Beach Weather: Be prepared for Florida’s unpredictable weather, with sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses essential for protecting yourself from the sun.
- Hurricane Season: Hurricane season runs from June to November, so be sure to stay informed and plan accordingly.
- Transportation: Rent a car or use public transportation to get around Florida, with many attractions and beaches accessible by car.
Budget Breakdown:
- Accommodation: Budget around $100-$200 per night for a hotel or vacation rental, depending on the location and amenities.
- Food: Budget around $15-$30 per meal for a mid-range restaurant, and around $20-$50 per entree for a higher-end restaurant.
- Attractions: Budget around $20-$50 per person for most attractions and experiences, with some expenses higher than others.
- Transportation: Budget around $20-$50 per day for public transportation, with many attractions and beaches accessible by car.
Conclusion:
Florida is a state that has something for everyone, with its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and wide range of attractions and experiences. From the Everglades to the beach, Florida has something to offer every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or simply a relaxing vacation, Florida has something to satisfy every interest. With its mild climate, beautiful beaches, and diverse wildlife, it’s no wonder why Florida stands out as a top choice for many. So why wait? Start planning your trip to Florida today!